Inn at the Roman Forum

Located above the ruins of imperial Rome – Trajan’s Forum on the slopes of the Viminale (the smallest of Rome’s Seven Hills) – this little luxury retreat is a stone’s throw from bustling tourist Rome, yet seems miles.

Tucked down a medieval alley in the Monti neighbourhood, romantics will love the rooms – many have four-poster beds and fireplaces; some have private jacuzzis.

There’s no proper restaurant on-site, but some of the city’s best trattorias are within walking distance. There is, however, a delightful roof garden, where you’re served breakfast, snacks and evening drinks while enjoying views of the Campidoglio.

By far the most astonishing feature, however, is the excavated ancient cryptic Roman portico underneath the building discovered in 1887 – considered a treasure of ancient Rome.