Antico Borgo di Trastevere

The Antico Borgo di Trastevere is a no-frills affair. But the two-star establishment, situated in a charming 18th-century building on a quiet cobblestoned Trastevere street, has a simple grace—and low rates—that make it a solid budget pick.

Quick read...

Pros: Historic building with sweet architectural touches. Breakfast served in the rooms.

Cons: Tiny rooms and bathrooms. Ground-floor rooms have very small windows.

Rooms

The Antico Borgo’s 10 guest rooms are sparsely decorated in dark woods and deep yellows, which fit the historic building perfectly. Some rooms (particularly the singles) are comically small, but the brick walls, antique floors and exposed beams add a rustic charm you won’t find in many of Rome’s budget hotels.

Due to the shape of the street, the hotel’s ground floor is set slightly below street level. While this adds some character to the reception area, it means that the few guest rooms on this level have tiny windows and can be dark. Most of the rooms, however, are located on the second floor (up a tight stairwell) and thus are much brighter.

All rooms offer air conditioning, a TV, coffee maker, phone and safe.

Bathrooms

The private bathrooms are minuscule, but outfitted with a shower, hair dryer and toiletries. One bathroom has a small bathtub (ask ahead).

Hotel

By virtue of its historic building, the Antico Borgo lacks some of the comforts you’ll get in other hotels—there is no elevator or communal area, and soundproofing is unheard of (light sleepers, pack earplugs).

It’s a simple spot to be sure, but its quaint details and long history charmed us, from the plant-filled entryway to the tiny, welcoming reception area where exposed brickwork and arches date back to the building’s days as an aristocratic palace. Music buffs will be interested to that know it was once the home of famous singer Lucio Dalla.

Because there are no communal areas, breakfast (included in the room rate) is brought to the guest rooms each morning. Wi-Fi is free throughout. Small animals are allowed in the hotel.

Location

The Antico Borgo di Trastevere is located a quick walk from the center of the vibrant Trastevere neighborhood. From here, the Colosseum and other attractions of Rome’s historic center are about a 20-minute walk away (and also accessible by taking Tram 8 from nearby Viale Trastevere). It’s also about a 25-minute walk to the Vatican.

Guest reviews in brief

Most of the Antico Borgo’s guests find the hotel to be a good value, even with a handful of imperfections. Many rave about its prime location, friendly staff and rustic charms, and guests also like the breakfast.

As is typical for Rome hotels, guests mostly complain that the rooms were small. Some also grip about hard mattresses, a noisy air conditioner and unreliable Wi-Fi.

* These reviews were provided by verified guests who booked through EuroCheapo's reservation partners. Click on the links below to read reviews in detail.