Breakfast with a view. Dine in style overlooking Piazza del Popolo. RELATED LINKS City Guide Rome

In a city well supplied with grand old hotels, the 130-room Hotel de Russie just off the Piazza del Popolo stands out for its singularly contemporary take on traditional Roman opulence.

While such venerable properties as the St. Regis Grand, the Eden, the Excelsior and the Hassler retain the profuse ornamentation that has long been associated with posh Continental hotels, the Russie has been thoroughly updated with a clean, modern interior that combines subtle references to classical design with a more 21^st-century take on Italian style.

The central location puts guests within walking distance of major attractions, yet a spacious spa and fitness center and exquisite hotel gardens terraced into the Pincio hillside offer sublime refuge from the noise and congestion of central Rome.

Published rates begin at 600 Euros plus 10 percent V.A.T. for a double room, but significant discounts and package deals are often available (start by clicking the "Special Offers" link on the hotel's own website).

Hotel de Russie
Via del Babuino 9
00187 Rome, Italy
Ph: +39-06-328881
www.hotelderussie.it