Situated in a historic building that at one point housed a convent, the Villa Prandello has 14 rooms, a lobby lounge, bar with veranda where breakfast is served, two meeting rooms, and a parking area. It was completely renovated in 2011 in the 1930s Art Deco style. There are immaculate white desks, headboards, and lamps in the bar area, and velvet chairs and lounges in the lobby. Oil paintings adorn the walls of every room, and the cute, cafe-style veranda. The hotel is named after playwright, novelist, and poet Luigi Pirandello, whose home studio is adjacent to the hotel. All the 14 guest rooms differ from one another and bear the name of one of the author’s works.

Rome’s Lazio neighborhood includes the beautiful Villa Torlonia, the catacombs of Santa Costanza, and the Church of Santa Agnese, as well as the headquarters of LUISS University and University La Sapienza. About three miles from Rome’s historic center, the No. 60 bus stop is around the corner from the hotel, and it’s a 20-minute ride to Piazza de Venezzia (the center of the city). The Bologna metro station (three stops to Termini train station, five stops to the Colosseum) is within a 10-minute walk. There are a few shops and restaurants within a 10-minute walk of the hotel.

There is a lot of white going on in each of the Villa Pirandello’s 14 rooms, giving them a clean though slightly sterile feel. Each is brightened by lavender bed coverings and paintings placed strategically, though sparingly, on one or two walls. New and updated, the bathrooms are large and have either a tub or stand-up shower, and each room comes with free Wi-Fi, a desk, flat-screen TV, mini-fridge, and safe. Towel warmers are a luxe touch for this price point. Views aren't much from most rooms, but are spectacular from those that have terraces. The balconies are huge and are equipped with lounge chairs and a small dining table.

Besides the delicious cappuccinos and strong coffee, there are no hot dishes in the free breakfast buffet, but cakes and fruit are served fresh daily. There is private, on-site parking (for a fee) and also a large, classroom-style meeting room with TV and audio equipment, and a small conference room. There is free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel, and although there is no restaurant, the bar has a great wine selection. The hotel arranges visits to author Luigi Pirandello’s house next door, and organizes shows, workshops, and socials.