The Fifteen Keys Hotel

How many of the best trends of modern Roman hospitality can possibly come together under one roof? The Fifteen Keys Hotel combines more than a few. Low-key, apartment-style living is one, on an intimate scale — there are only fifteen rooms, as you might have guessed — and the location in Monti places you in the midst of one of Rome’s oldest, most authentic residential neighborhoods.

The design, too, is perfectly of the moment; classic architecture, a bit of stucco, some very contemporary colors, and vintage furniture for that homey, unpretentious vibe. It’s a much-needed break from the obsession with ostentatiously luxe modern Italian design, frankly. It’s a brand-new renovation, so physically it’s in fine shape, and the spaces are sunny and bright.

A place like this, of course, is more pied à terre than urban resort, and that’s as it should be. You’ll be at the city’s mercy for most of your dining, drinking, entertainment and culture needs — and the staff at Fifteen Keys is exceedingly happy to help. They’re also happy to rent you a bicycle so that you can explore the streets — or, if you prefer, a Vespa, for an even more quintessentially Roman experience.