Although it's housed in a renovated historic building, this six-story hotel has modern public areas that make it a fine choice for a city stay. Even so, some of the rooms here aren't exactly up to snuff. The lobby that doubles as a bar and lounge and is an attractive space, with black leather bar stools, black-and-white pendant lighting, and red pillows accenting the gray banquette seats. Additional sofa and chair groups provide more places where guests can hang out for a drink, which is a nice perk after a day touring the city. The hotel is popular with tour groups, as well as couples and families.

This hotel has a central location that's an eight-minute walk from Termini Station, which is Rome's main terminal. It's also a two-minute walk from the Castro Pretorio Metro station, providing easy access to major attractions such as the Trevi Fountain, Colosseum, the Spanish Steps at the Piazza di Spagna, and the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore. Guests can walk to Piazza Repubblica in 12 minutes and to the National Museum of Rome in seven minutes. Plenty of restaurants and bars can be found in any direction from the hotel. Plan on just under an hour to reach Fiumicino by car, or about 40 minutes by public transportation. Ciampino Airport is a 30-minute cab ride from the property.

Rooms are offered as singles, doubles, or triples, though they are -- unfortunately -- a mixed bag when it comes to style. Some Standard Rooms are a bit old-fashioned, with bedspreads, hardwood floors or patterned carpeting, and minimal decoration on the pale yellow walls. Others have been updated with more modern bed coverings and drapery, plus neutral color schemes in shades of gray. They are all well-equipped, however, with air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, safes, desks, and free Wi-Fi. Tea- and coffeemakers are available by request. Compact tiled bathrooms include hairdryers, magnifying mirrors, towel warmers, bidets, shower/tub combos, and toiletries. Some rooms have balconies or terraces with nice city views -- a few are furnished. Keep in mind that noise from inside the hotel and the street can be an issue.

Like most area budget hotels, features here are slim. A breakfast buffet is served daily in a modern, but windowless, breakfast room with banquette seating and Roman photos hanging on the walls. The space is narrow and can get crowded at times. Buffet selections include fruits, cereals, pastries, breads, cheeses, and meats, plus scrambled eggs and sausage. It's included in rates. The modern lobby doubles as a bar, with plenty of seating where guests can hang out to have a drink. Sofa and chair groupings in little nooks offer more private areas. There's also a computer set up here for guests to use. A meeting room with natural light and an exposed-brick ceiling can accommodate up to 20 people for business or social gatherings. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property, but it can be spotty in places.