Hotel Santa Maria

Places to stay on Rome’s lively left bank are few and far between, and this three-star hotel in a handsome 17th-century cloister filled with orange trees is one of the best. It’s a peaceful enclave in the centre of one of Rome’s liveliest, most authentic districts. Trastevere’s buzzing trattorias and bars are on the doorstep.

Rooms in the former monks’ cells are sunny, if a touch austere. They’re all similar, and look out onto the garden cloister where breakfast is served; those off the second, smaller courtyard are quieter. The various two-level suites, sleeping up to six, are great for families

It’s an ideal choice for couples or families who want to visit Rome’s sights while experiencing local life away from the main tourist vortices. The Vatican and the heart of medieval Rome are a 10-15 minute walk away just over the Tiber bridges.