Hotel de Russie

he elegantly updated Hotel de Russie off the Piazza del Popolo is a rare exception in Roman hotelerie. No marble columns, no sternly staring busts, no ancient frescoes -- the building's historic, but the interior spaces are contemporary and modern, with soothing color schemes and comfortable furnishings. The hotel also offers another rare treat for Rome, that being non-sidewalk outdoor dining in either the garden or terraced courtyard (which sports a small butterfly sanctuary). Rooms are large with mod mosaic bathrooms, the latter being one of few classical flourishes on display. Balcony rooms are reportedly particularly great, if you can pay the fare. Rates begin at €440 per night.