Laura Itzkowitz – The News Desk

The 7 Best Rome Colosseum Tours With Skip-the-Line Access

19Dec

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Travel

The 7 Best Rome Colosseum Tours With Skip-the-Line Access

As the most enduring symbol of the Roman Empire and one of the most famous landmarks in the world, the Colosseum receives more than 6 million visitors per year, so it's not easy to escape the crowds. A visit is worth it, though, if you want to see the world's largest amphitheater – once known as the Flavian Amphitheater – and try to imagine what it would have been like 2,000 years ago.A standard ticket to the Colosseum also includes access to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, so many (but not all) tours also include those ancient sites. Inside the ancient complex, there is very little signage explaining what you're looking at. A good guide will not only get you skip-the-line access but also bring these incredible places to life. Keep in mind that most Colosseum tours only give you access...

19Jul

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Travel

Hotel de la Ville, a Rocco Forte Hotel

1/14The lobby of Hotel de la Ville gives off a stylish impression. Walking through the lobby toward the reception desk, you'll notice the graphic patterned floor tiles and a table with a globe and other items.2/14We began our tour at the hotel's rooftop bar and restaurant, Cielo.3/14We believe that Cielo is one of the city's best rooftop options. The bar doesn't take reservations, but the restaurant does.4/14Rooms and suites feature plush furnishings, like velvet sofas and ornate mirrors.5/14The suites we toured have separate living areas and bedrooms outfitted in rich textiles and comfortable furniture.6/14The suites feature decorative items inspired by Roman art and architecture, like this replica statuette of the elephant statue by Bernini in the Piazza della Minerva near the Pantheon....

16Jul

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Photos: J.K. Place Roma

1/11Developed by acclaimed designer Michele Bönan, the lobby was made to feel like a living room, with comfortable sofas and armchairs, potted plants and art.2/11Marble statues we saw in public spaces throughout our tour give the hotel, which once served as an architecture school, a refined air.3/11We began our tour by exploring the hotel's dining options. The cozy wood-paneled bar just off the lobby serves coffee and tea, as well as stronger drinks. Snacks are available all day.4/11The hotel’s restaurant, JKCafe, serves breakfast, lunch and dinner.5/11We were impressed by the design of JKCafe, which features bold colors, plush velvet banquettes and Sputnik-style chandeliers.6/11A lounge filled with Assouline books provides another space where guests can relax and enjoy tea or coffee.7/11...

15Jul

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Hotel de Russie, a Rocco Forte Hotel

1/13We began our tour at the alfresco Stravinskij Bar in the Hotel de Russie's courtyard, a favorite spot for locals and visitors. We recommend you try the signature Stravinskij Spritz.2/13The restaurant, Le Jardin de Russie, is on the upper tier of the courtyard garden overlooking the Stravinskij Bar. Lauded chef Fulvio Pierangelini's signature dishes include ravioli cacio e pepe and spaghetti al pomodoro.3/13We continued through the beautiful garden, which extends several levels and has paths leading to quiet spots with water features and Mediterranean flora.4/13The garden was recently restored to the original design by architect Giuseppe Valadier, who also designed the nearby Piazza del Popolo.5/13The garden theme continues inside the restaurant, which features hand-painted frescoes by...

15Jul

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Photos: Hassler Roma

1/16Hotel Hassler has a stately and imposing facade on the prestigious Via Sistina. The location atop the Spanish Steps puts guests conveniently close to the city's major monuments and fashion district.2/16After entering the lobby, we saw the concierge desk immediately to the left.3/16A reproduction of the bronze Capitoline Wolf greets guests in the lobby. The statue represents the mythical she-wolf that suckled the twins Romulus and Remus, who went on to found the city of Rome.4/16The cozy Salone Eva is just off the lobby. While libations weren't being served during our summer visit, it's open for light meals and drinks in the winter.5/16The intimate (five stools) Hassler Bar is open from October through April and serves classic cocktails.6/16The Michelin-starred Imàgo restaurant sits on...

15Jul

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Photos: Hotel Eden

1/15Hotel Eden occupies a historic building on the corner of Via Ludovisi and Via di Porta Pinciana in the area surrounding Via Veneto. The clock on the facade is one of many original historic details.2/15The marble reception desk was modeled on the ancient Ara Pacis monument, while the marble floors were inspired by the floors in the Pantheon.3/15As we arrive, a doorman waits to welcome guests into the hotel, and a bellman is available to help with bags. The concierge desk is staffed by experts who know the city inside and out.4/15The lobby gives off a wow factor with gold coffered ceilings, polished marble floors, elegant furnishings and fresh flowers.5/15From the mezzanine, we could look down at La Libreria, an elegant lounge that serves an all-day menu of light fare. A cabinet on the ...