The hype
Travelers universally praise the staff (especially Matteo and Stefano) and the rooftop vibe, but often note the rooms are on the smaller side.
The Major Hotel
$150-250/ night
Book this if You want a stylish, spotless launchpad in Monti that's walkable to the Colosseum and Termini but still feels like a boutique escape.
Why People Love It
- Masa Rooftop Bar with stunning Basilica views and Middle Eastern bites
- Immaculate cleanliness standards that consistently beat 5-star rivals
- Prime Monti location: 8 mins to Termini, 15 mins to Colosseum
Quick Take: A polished, reliable boutique hotel where the rooftop is the main event and the rooms are cozy-clean, not sprawling.
Reviewed by @leeannkoppel: I felt like the main character in this suite. The split-level layout made it feel like a private apartment, and waking up to that golden light on the Basilica was unforgettable. Definitely the most romantic spot I've stayed in Rome.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The elevator is small and slow, and rooms near it can suffer from mechanical noise.
- You love rooftop aperitivo culture
- You need to be close to Termini station but don't want to stay in a 'gritty' area
- Hygiene is your #1 non-negotiable priority
Cleanliness & Maintenance
9.2
- Housekeeping: Daily service is meticulous. Reviews consistently use words like 'spotless' and 'immaculate'.
- Bathroom hygiene: Sparkling. Grout is clean, no mold issues reported in recent audits.
- Maintenance: Excellent. Recently renovated feel, though elevators are slow.
- Linens & towels: Crisp, high-quality white linens. No complaints of wear or stains.
- Odors & scents: Fresh. Lobby often has a pleasant signature scent; no musty carpet smells.
Sleepability™
7.5SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Emergency sirens from the street (common in Rome)
- Elevator mechanical noise in adjacent rooms
- Hallway sounds due to the boutique layout
Before you book
Good to know
- City tax is steep: €7.50 per person, per night, payable at hotel
- The rooftop bar (Masa) is open to the public, so book a table for sunset even if you're a guest
- No on-site parking; nearest garage is Macro Garage (~€30/day)
What to pack
- Earplugs (just in case of street sirens)
- European C/F power adapter (older building, fewer USB ports)
- Walking shoes — Monti is hilly and cobblestoned
Room Genie
Best picks
- Deluxe City View (Room 503 or similar) for direct views of Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica
- Superior Double for a bit more breathing room (20m²) than the Classic
Rooms to avoid
- Standard Single (12m²) unless you are truly a minimalist
- Rooms directly next to the elevator shaft (ask for 'end of hall')
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am excited for my stay. If possible, please assign a room away from the elevator shaft to ensure quiet. We would love a room with a view of the Basilica if available (Deluxe category booked).”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is there a pool?
No. Some descriptions mention an 'open-air bath' but this refers to private hot tubs in select suites or is a translation error. There is no swimming pool.
Is breakfast included?
Usually no. It costs around €25 per person. It's a decent continental spread, but local cafés offer better value.
How far is the Colosseum?
A pleasant 15-minute walk (approx 1.2km) through the Monti neighborhood.
Is the area safe?
Yes. Monti is trendy and lively. The hotel is close to Termini, which can be gritty, but the immediate hotel block is safe and upscale.
Does the hotel have a gym?
No. There is no fitness center on-site. You'll need to use a nearby day-pass gym.
Can I store my luggage?
Yes, they offer secure luggage storage before check-in and after check-out.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Skip the hotel breakfast and walk 3 mins to 'Bar Monti' or 'La Bottega del Caffè' for a cappuccino and cornetto for €5.
- ✨
The rooftop bar serves a Middle Eastern fusion menu (Mezé) which is a rare and delicious find in Rome.
- ✨
There is a quiet 'Library' area on the first floor that most guests miss — perfect for working remotely.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'Wes Anderson' aesthetic of the rooftop bar's interior section.
💡The shower pressure is surprisingly strong for a historic building.
💡You can hear the church bells from Santa Maria Maggiore (charming for most, annoying for some).
💡The 'Single' rooms are genuinely closet-sized — don't book one thinking you can squeeze a second person in.
💡The AC is powerful and individually controlled, a huge plus for Rome summers.
Local Playbook
Map
See where The Major Hotel is located and what's nearby.