Hotel Review: Hotel Hassler Hassler, Rome

Situated at the top of the Spanish Steps, next to the magnificent 16th-century Trinità dei Monti church, the hotel is within walking distance of the green expanse of the Villa Borghese gardens as well as the fashionable shops and boutiques along the Via Veneto and the Via dei Condotti. Most of the main attractions are within a 15-minute walk, including the Pantheon and the Trevi Fountain.

By plane: there are direct flights to Rome's Leonardo da Vinci International Airport from London (2 hours 25 mins), Manchester (3 hours 5 mins) and Bristol (4 hours 45 mins). The hotel is a 40-minute drive from the airport. Book flights at Rome.

You enter into a sleek marble-floored lobby with carved, lacquered wood reception desks and a large antique Murano glass chandelier; light also bounces from rose pink and green stained-glass windows onto the street. Further inside the Belle Epoque Salone Eva is resplendent in red velvet, while the bar is all brown, buttoned leather banquettes.

The hotel has been in the same family for several generations and you are likely to meet the owner or his son during your stay. Service is super attentive and discreet. Facilities include a small spa and fitness centre on the third floor with its own terrace and a Rossano Ferretti hair salon.

• Bar
• Restaurant
• Spa
• Gym
• Terrace
• Free Wi-Fi

Rooms and suites are distinctive, individually designed and are filled with art and antiques. Venetian lamps, Murano glass chandeliers, 19th-century mirrors, Limoges porcelains and splendid tapestries, mosaics and frescoes all provide decorative accents. Many rooms have views over the rooftops of Rome.

Room types: Classic, Deluxe, Grand Deluxe rooms, Junior Suites, Suites

Key amenities: ensuite bathroom, Amorvero SPA toiletries, free spa access, free Wi-Fi

In the Michelin-starred Imàgo restaurant, chef Andrea Antonini imaginatively transforms traditional dishes with a strong focus on seasonal ingredients in the six-course tasting menu. In the bistro, you can try Roman specialities such as tempura artichokes, spaghetti carbonara or veal meatballs with mushrooms and parmesan alongside pizzas, burgers and salads.

Imàgo: one Michelin star, elegant fine dining. Open Tue-Sat 7-10.30pm. Tasting menu €170.

Hassler Bistrot: casual fine dining, all-day menu including afternoon tea. Mains from €30.