I’ve been fortunate to experience some of the world’s most exquisite hotels, but few properties have captured my heart quite like Hotel de Russie in Rome. Nestled between Piazza di Spagna and Piazza del Popolo, this iconic Rocco Forte hotel is not just a place to stay — it’s a destination in its own right.
Arrival & Location
From the moment I stepped off the plane, I was greeted with exceptional Roman hospitality — a complimentary VIP airport pickup, complete with a sleek luxury car and a warm smile. The journey to the hotel set the tone for the days ahead: effortless, elegant and utterly indulgent.
Upon arrival, the magic of Hotel de Russie unfolded. The legendary address along Via del Babuino feels like a secret passageway into another world — one where history, art, nature and modern luxury are perfectly in balance. The check-in process was seamless and personalised, and I was soon ushered into my suite, where timeless Roman charm met thoughtful contemporary design.
Suite Accommodation
If you’re visiting Rome for a special occasion or simply want to elevate your experience, Hotel de Russie’s suite collection is unparalleled.
The Garden Suite is a particular favourite, offering sweeping views over the lush green oasis below and interiors that blend Fontana Arte lamps with Tosconova armchairs and handpicked Roman-inspired artwork. It’s an ode to quiet luxury, designed to make you feel utterly at home while being utterly spoiled. That’s the suite I experienced. My suite was a serene sanctuary of calm and refinement. Spacious, bathed in natural light, and beautifully appointed with plush Italian furnishings, it felt like a private Roman apartment rather than a hotel room. The colour palette — a sophisticated blend of soft greens, warm ochres and textured neutrals — subtly echoed the lush Secret Garden below. I especially loved the bespoke details: original artwork, elegant Fornasetti cushions, and the scent of Irene Forte Skincare amenities wafting from the marble bathroom.
For a touch more grandeur, the Valadier Suite delivers with French balconies overlooking the Secret Garden and Pincio Hill, an inviting living and dining space, and design accents that pay homage to Rome’s golden age — think antique busts, C&C Milano textiles, and Meridiani furnishings.
Art lovers, meanwhile, will find inspiration in the Suite Picasso, a beautifully curated space honouring the hotel’s famous former guest. The suite is alive with amethyst and gold tones, hand-embroidered cushions, original decorative objects and a library stocked with Picasso folios — a sophisticated tribute to the artist’s Roman sojourn.
And if you’re seeking the pinnacle of Roman indulgence, the Nijinsky Suite is in a league of its own. At 172 square metres indoors and 239 square metres of private terrace space, it is the largest and most lavish suite in the hotel. Following a 2023 restyling, it now feels more like a noble Roman residence than a hotel suite — complete with terracotta cabochon floors, marble bathrooms, curated 19th-century objets d’art, and one of the most spectacular views in the Eternal City. Guests enjoy the services of a personal suite assistant and bespoke experiences ranging from art tours to curated shopping itineraries.
Whichever suite you choose, the feeling is the same — a warm embrace of comfort, beauty and impeccable service. The design, led by Olga Polizzi, strikes the perfect balance between Italian heritage and cosmopolitan flair. Every detail has been considered to elevate your stay and immerse you in Roman life, from the spa’s wellness rituals to the buzzing Stravinskij Bar with cocktails inspired by the garden’s aromas.
De Russie Garden and Dining Scene
It’s hard to overstate the beauty and tranquillity of that garden. Designed by Giuseppe Valadier in the 19th century and lovingly restored, the tiered Secret Garden is one of Rome’s rarest treasures. It’s where I enjoyed quiet morning strolls with a cappuccino in hand, and long afternoons under the citrus trees. By night, it transforms into a romantic backdrop for dinner at Le Jardin de Russie, where local flavours meet Michelin-level finesse. The cacio e pepe ravioli and sea bass baked in pink Himalayan salt were highlights, as was the dreamy alfresco setting.
Spa & Wellness: A Serene Escape in the Heart of Rome
Hidden beneath the historic walls of Hotel de Russie lies one of Rome’s most elegant wellness sanctuaries. The De Russie Spa is more than a spa—it’s a restorative haven where the spirit of the city slows to a gentle rhythm.
I started my wellness journey with a dip in the saltwater hydropool, followed by time in the sauna and steam room—an ideal antidote to jet lag and travel fatigue. The treatment menu is thoughtful and indulgent, featuring facials and body therapies using Irene Forte Skincare, created with natural ingredients sourced from Italy. I opted for a rejuvenating full-body massage, and walked out feeling lighter, rebalanced and completely refreshed.
Fitness lovers will appreciate the well-equipped gym, complete with the latest Technogym machines and personal training sessions for those seeking a tailored workout. There’s even an opportunity to explore Rome’s iconic landmarks through a guided “art run” or cycle with one of the spa’s wellness experts—a wonderfully unique way to see the Eternal City.
All In All
Hotel de Russie is more than a hotel — it’s a living part of Rome’s cultural and social history. Artists, aristocrats and royalty have passed through its doors for over two centuries, and it continues to be a haven for travellers who appreciate elegance, discretion and soul.
As I checked out, reluctantly leaving my suite behind, I knew this wasn’t goodbye — only arrivederci. Because once you’ve stayed at Hotel de Russie, Rome is never quite the same without it.
