The spacious reception area at Hotel Residenza in Farnese is filled with a mix of classic chandeliers and contemporary art. It feels a bit like your cool aunt’s house, stuffed with bright objects and mismatched furniture simultaneously vying for attention, yet somehow, the look works. The free-handed approach to decor continues in the classically styled guest rooms, which each sport different wallpaper and eye-catching light fixtures. The only part of the hotel that seems sparsely furnished is the large rooftop terrace, where guests can relax while enjoying the city views. Most guests are leisure travelers -- particularly couples and some families -- taking advantage of the excellent location in the historic center. 

Located next to the French Embassy near exclusive Via Giuia, Hotel Residenza in Farnese is well-situated in Rome’s historic center. It's a one-minute walk from the lively fresh food market at Campo de’ Fiori, and in the evening, the area is popular with locals and visitors alike for dining and drinking. The streets leading away from the hotel are filled with small museums, artisan workshops, restaurants, bars, and unique boutiques. It is slightly inconvenient for public transportation, but the area is best explored on foot. It's about a 10-minute walk to the Pantheon and to Piazza Navona, and roughly 15 minutes on foot to Trastevere. Many of the city's other top sights are within a short walk. Taxis are available near in Campo de’ Fiori, and Leonardo da Vinci Fiumicino Airport is about a 40-minute drive away. 

Guest rooms at Hotel Residenza in Farnese have varied decor, but each follow a traditional standard. The damask fabrics and patterned wallpaper are a throwback to an earlier age, and may seem dated to modern travelers. Layouts also vary -- for example, one guest room in the palazzo’s old chapel still has arched ceiling where the altar was previously located, and another has hand-painted fresco ceilings. Most have queen beds, though some doubles are two twins pushed together. All rooms have AC, small flat-screen TVs, minibars with water, soda and sparkling wine, slippers, and safes, but there are no kettles for making tea or coffee. Bathrooms are more basic, but they contain bidets, stall showers with removable rainfall showerheads, hairdryers, and a generous stock of toiletries. 

The hotel has a large rooftop terrace overlooking the gardens of the neighboring French Embassy. While there isn't much seating, there are a few cafes tables covered by an awning, and guests can order drinks from the lobby bar and take in the views of Rome. The hotel also has a free extensive sweet-and-savory buffet breakfast, with homemade items and treats from local bakeries. However, there's no full-service restaurant. Other amenities include a large meeting area on the ground floor, which can be rented for events. Free Wi-Fi is also available throughout the hotel.