Rome, a city with a rich history, architecture, and culture, offers a wealth of historical treasures and modern experiences. From the majestic Colosseum to the awe-inspiring Vatican City, the city is a blend of ancient marvels and contemporary attractions.
STAY HERE…
When you arrive at the Anantara Palazzo Naiadi Rome Hotel, you’ll be impressed by its striking crescent shape and central location in Piazza della Repubblica. Built above the ruins of the Baths of Diocletian, the hotel features 238 rooms, a grand lobby with high ceilings, and elegant 19th-century marble. It’s conveniently close to Roma Termini railway station, making it just a 20-minute walk to the Trevi Fountain and 15 minutes to the Spanish Steps—perfect for a leisurely walk after a meal.
From the moment you enter the reception, you’ll notice the blend of sophistication and Roman charm. The décor, with its rich neutrals and marble, flows seamlessly from the lobby to the rooms and suites. The Junior Suite is ideal for families, accommodating two adults and a child (with a cot available upon request). It offers views of the Diocletian baths and features striped wallpaper and a striking chandelier.
After a day of sightseeing, relax in the large bathtub, clad in floor-to-ceiling Travertine marble. The rainshower and Acqua di Parma amenities add to the relaxing experience. Guests can enjoy complimentary mini-bar refreshments, access exclusive privileges in the Naiadi Lounge, and stay active with the in-suite TechnoGym kit. The hotel also offers butler service for additional needs. We appreciated the thoughtful touches, such as the cheesecake left for us and the lavender spray for a restful night.
WITHIN THE PREMISES
INEO Restaurant
INEO, the hotel’s rooftop restaurant, takes its name from the Latin word for ‘initiate.’ Chef Heros de Agostinis leads the culinary team, offering a menu that combines Roman roots with global influences. The fine-dining venue, with 28 covers, features low lighting, elegant fixtures, and artwork. Enjoy dishes like Handmade Ravioli with braised oxtail, Paprika-marinated Salmon with green apple tapioca pearls, Hand-picked Blue Crab with Madras curry, and Grouper wrapped in Chinese chard with roasted pineapple and Thai chilli.
La Fontana Restaurant
La Fontana Restaurant serves a hearty breakfast for global travellers. Start your day with freshly baked breads, focaccia, pastries, cold cuts, and cheeses. You can also order eggs à la carte or enjoy sushi, noodles, and Asian dishes on display.
The Spa
The Spa at Anantara Palazzo Naiadi blends luxury with ancient wellness traditions. The Diocletian bath ritual uses ingredients like olive oil, honey, and sea salt for a refreshing experience. The ritual includes a full-body exfoliation, a detoxifying mud wrap, and a soothing body massage to help you relax and unwind.
The Junior Suite is available from AED8,000 per night. To make a reservation, visit website.
EAT LIKE A LOCAL
Much of what we now savour as quintessential Roman cuisine traces its origins to humble beginnings, rooted in the resourcefulness of the common folk and farmers. During the Renaissance era, when premium cuts of meat were reserved for the elite circles of aristocracy, Vatican clergy, and the bourgeois class, everyday Romans had to innovate with what was available – thus embracing the “quinto-quarto,” or the fifth quarter, which predominantly consisted of offal.
This birthed a repertoire of ingenious dishes showcasing intestines and lesser cuts, now integral to the culinary fabric of Rome – spot Pajata (intestines) or the classic Roman pasta all’amatriciana (featuring cured pork jowl, tomato, and cheese) on authentic Trattoria menus. Moreover, this historical backdrop sheds light on dietary patterns, where meat and fish were scarce commodities for the masses, while vegetables and legumes thrived as staple sustenance, shaping the essence of Roman gastronomy.
Here are three enticing spots to get a taste of traditional specialties:
Felice a Testaccio
Felice a Testaccio, founded in 1936 in the Testaccio neighbourhood, serves traditional Roman dishes passed down through generations. It’s famous for its rich Cacio e Pepe and Carbonara. feliceatestaccio.com
Sora Margherita
Located in the Jewish Ghetto, Sora Margherita offers Oxtail in tomato sauce, Grilled Lamb Chops, handmade fettuccine, and agnolotti. soramargherita.com
Vanda
In the lively Trastevere neighbourhood, Vanda serves crunchy artichokes with cheese fondue and traditional Roman pastas like Gricia. ostepercaso.com/vanda