Anantara Palazzo Naiadi Rome
📍Piazza della Repubblica
For our Neighbourhood Stays series our travel tastemakers uncover hotels and boltholes that ooze style whilst celebrating local. In this instalment Amira Hashish settles into a landmark palace in the heart of the Eternal City…
Neighbourhood: At the heart of Piazza della Repubblica, Anantara Palazzo Naiadi places its guests in one of Rome’s most dynamic locations. Surrounded by grand neoclassical architecture and a short stroll from the city’s historic landmarks, this is an address that blends cultural significance with access to Rome’s finest shopping, dining, and artistic institutions.
What to expect: Housed in a landmark palace, the hotel’s architectural roots trace back to 1705, when original elements were commissioned by Pope Clement XI for the Vatican. Suspended above the ancient Diocletian Thermal Baths, you can glimpse at the excavated foundations, pools, and mosaics through the lower ground floor; an extraordinary window into Rome’s past. The hotel is also home to one of the city’s largest rooftop terraces, offering panoramic views over the capital’s skyline.
Community and ambience: Palazzo Naiadi exudes an atmosphere of old-world grandeur, balanced with contemporary luxury. The historic setting, combined with Anantara’s hospitality, creates an experience that is both refined and welcoming without being stuffy.
The rooftop terrace, with a pool that opens in the warmer months, is a highlight of the hotel and a great place for aperitivo hour, where you can take in the golden hues of the Eternal City as the sun sets over the rooftops. Looking for a spot to carry on the night? The friendly concierge team will happily advise on the best local hangouts.
Design details: The hotel’s original structure was designed by architect Gaetano Koch between 1887 and 1898, later reimagined by Maurizio Papiri in the 2000s as a luxury destination.
Most recently, in 2022, TBC Interiorismo studio completed a full renovation on behalf of Anantara, breathing new life into the palace while preserving its historical essence. The interiors merge classic-meets-contemporary design, featuring opulent marble, intricate frescos, and warm, inviting tones.
Which room should I stay in? Rooms start from a generous 30 sqm, with suites offering even more space. A junior suite overlooking the piazza and Fountain of the Naiads feels wonderfully luxurious. Opening your curtains to reveal Rome’s grandeur amongst busy city life is rather special.
On the menu: Start the day at La Fontana Restaurant with a sumptuous breakfast buffet featuring live cooking stations and delicious local delicacies. Large windows looking over the Piazza della Repubblica will get you in the mood for exploring.
For dinner, head upstairs to SEEN by Olivier. This is the hotel’s rooftop restaurant, where Chef Olivier da Costa blends contemporary flair with a global outlook. Expect a dynamic menu that weaves together Mediterranean influences, Japanese precision, and Brazilian vibrancy. Think sushi, premium cuts of meat, and bold, flavourful cocktails. There are still healthy reminders that you are in Italy though. The Handmade Egg Tagliolini with Lobster is such a treat whilst the Banana and Peanuts pudding is a must-try for those with a sweet tooth. The setting is just as impressive, with striking city views and a glamorous atmosphere.
Spa time: The luxurious spa is a serene escape that pays homage to the city’s ancient bathing traditions. Inspired by the healing properties of water, it offers a selection of holistic treatments designed to rejuvenate body and mind. The signature Diocletian Ritual draws on centuries-old wellness secrets. This indulgent experience layers natural ingredients to detox, purify, and nourish the skin. The journey begins with a Salt and Laurel Scrub, followed by a Cleansing Mud Wrap, and concludes with a deeply restorative St. John’s Wort Oil Massage.
Expectant mammas will love the mother-to-be massage. Gentle strokes help to relieve swelling and heaviness in the legs and ease away spasms for a sense of relaxation. The hydrating massage oil blend moisturises the skin and makes the tissue more elastic to help prevent the formation of stretch marks.
With hydrotherapy, steam rooms, and personalised treatments, this is a place to unwind in true Roman style. Retreating to your suite afterwards is the ultimate luxury.
Local experiences: Anantara’s signature experiences offer an immersive way to explore Rome. The upcoming Anantara Concorso Roma (24-27 April 2025) is set to be a highlight, bringing together an exclusive showcase of collector cars in the heart of the capital. Beyond the automotive spectacle, VIP hospitality packages promise privileged access to curated cultural, culinary, and artisanal experiences. For those looking to dive deeper into the city’s history, private tours of hidden Roman treasures, including the Diocletian Baths beneath the hotel, offer a truly unique perspective.
Book: Anantara Palazzo Naiadi Rome nightly rates start at Euros 360 in a Deluxe Double room for two persons on a B&B basis with VAT included, anantara.com / +39 06 489 381.