Timeless Italian Authenticity at Hotel L’Orologio Roma

Steps from Rome‘s Pantheon and an easy walk to major attractions like the Colosseum and Roman Forum, Hotel L’Orologio Roma is in the heart of it all. Experience the vibrancy of Rome in an authentically local way, paired with access to plenty of amenities and a beautiful, modern setting.

Family-Friendly Review of Hotel L’Orologio Roma

Arriving in Rome, I didn’t know what to expect. I’d heard stories of tourists swarming like locusts around must-see attractions and of pickpockets with seemingly invisible fingers — but also, of course, of the city’s beauty, of its unmistakable Italian feel, of its vibrancy. The latter is the Rome you’ll find at Hotel L’Orologio Roma.

A Timeless History

Oroglio translates to “clock” in Italian. L’Orologio Roma and its sister hotels in Florence and Venice are all watch-themed, as the owner is a collector of fine watches. Each room is named after a different watch in the owner’s collection, and clock motifs abound throughout the hotel decor.

Location

The hotel is located on a busy street in the center of Rome, just a few blocks away from the ancient mystery of the Pantheon. On a rainy Tuesday, I wandered the surrounding neighborhood to stumble upon the structure, rain dripping in through its infamous open ceiling — pretty awe-inspiring stuff.

The Roman Forum and Palatine Hill are a 20-minute walk away, during which you’ll encounter a few less famous but similarly inspiring sites like the Basilica of San Pietro in Vincoli (St. Peter in Chains). And just beyond the Forum is the Colosseum. Popular destinations like the Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain are also close and walkable. For those brave enough to attempt the Roman metro, there’s a stop just down the block from the hotel.

Rome’s lively Trastevere neighborhood lies just on the other side of the river, an easy and pleasant walk through cobbled streets and ancient buildings shrouded in vines. The quaint trattorie in Trastevere are not to be missed — I ate some of the best pasta all’amatriciana on my exploration through the area.

Vatican City is a manageable walk, though it may be long for young kids at around 30 minutes. I found it an immensely pleasant stroll through real Roman neighborhoods, away from the hubbub of the tourist center. I smiled at old nonnas doing their daily shopping and enjoyed delicious crispy Roman-style pizza in a small park on my way.

For dining and nightlife, as well as a few spots for pre-dinner aperitivi, the hotel’s kind concierge will provide plenty of local recommendations, both nearby and in Trastevere.

Dining

I would be remiss not to highlight Hotel L’Orologio Roma’s main attraction: its stunning rooftop deck. Complete with 180-degree views of central Rome, the rooftop deck is perhaps the most amazing feature of the hotel.

Complimentary breakfast is served on the rooftop each morning with both familiar and international options: yogurt and granola, scrambled eggs and bacon, local cheeses, smoked meats, pastries and breads (and even mimosas for a truly indulgent start to the day). The staff will make you whatever coffee you please — I indulged in multiple cappuccinos during my stay.

At night, the rooftop transforms into a bar and restaurant with snacks and heartier Italian fare. It’s a lovely place for an aperitivo before heading out on the town or for a nightcap after a long Roman dinner. Even if you’re not a drinker, it’s worth heading up to the rooftop just for the amazing view of the city at night.

Accommodations

Hotel L’Orologio Roma includes single and double rooms as well as family suites suitable for any type of guest. My single room was spacious and faced onto a quiet courtyard away from the busy street. Rooms are furnished in a tasteful modern style with splashes of chartreuse or rust.

Bathrooms include bidets, rain showers and luxury toiletries. I was delighted by the turn-down service complete with a delicious chocolate and slippers, and treated myself to a chamomile tea with the room’s included kettle and assortment of teas and coffees. Rooms come with daily complimentary sparkling and still water (greatly appreciated on my long walks through the city) as well as an assortment of fruit upon check-in.

Amenities

Amenities are exceptional, especially for an urban hotel. An onsite gym satisfies any fitness addict, though I found with all the walking I was plenty exercised. The concierge went above and beyond to help me get a feel for the city and local attractions as well as recommending local bars, restaurants and little-known attractions. I felt well taken care of — when my shirt (one of just a few I brought for the trip) ripped, the concierge hand-delivered a sewing kit to my door.

Things to Know

The fabulously convenient location does come with some downsides: street-facing rooms get noisy and stay noisy at night. For guests and families concerned about noise, ask for a room that faces away from the street. The location feels safe and with a 24-hour concierge, I didn’t worry about security at all.

Relevant Links:

Browse all family-friendly accommodations and activities in Rome on Ciao Bambino

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Rome with teens: Best 3-day Rome itinerary

How to visit Rome with toddlers (and still have fun)

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Essential tips for visiting the Vatican with kids

Editor’s note: This post was accurate when published. We advise checking independently for the latest information and updates. Ciao Bambino does not accept responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in, or for any actions taken based on, the information presented.