Bvlgari Rome – Luxury, Art and History in the Earth of the Eternal City

Some cities are open books, where every corner, every stone, and every shadow tells a story. And then, there is Rome. A city that seems written on parchment, where time is immortal, and the past walks hand in hand with the present. In this setting of almost unattainable grandeur, we find the Bvlgari Hotel Roma — a masterpiece of contemporary hospitality that seems to defy even History itself.

Bvlgari hotels are an exclusive collection of luxury properties that combine sophisticated design, premium hospitality, and the tradition of the Italian brand. Bvlgari’s foray into hospitality began in 2004 with the opening of the Bvlgari Hotel Milano. The network has nine hotels spread across iconic destinations such as Milan, London, Dubai, Shanghai, Beijing, Bali, Paris, Tokyo, and, since June 2023, Rome.

Located in the iconic Piazza Augusto Imperatore, the Bvlgari Hotel Roma is not just a luxury retreat in the city’s heart but a celebration of Rome in all its imperial and modern glory. Overlooking the Mausoleum of Augustus, the hotel is strategically positioned to offer proximity to the greatest icons of the Eternal City, such as the Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, Piazza di Spagna, and the elegant Via Condotti. While the surrounding streets breathe History, the Bvlgari Hotel Roma transforms this heritage into a hospitality concept that combines bold design, impeccable service, and a visceral connection to Italian culture.

An Architectural and Sensory Jewel

Crossing the doors of the Bvlgari Roma, we are greeted by the overwhelming lightness of Italian marble, the softness of natural light, and the silent majesty of a design that respects the city without relinquishing its contemporary essence. Originally designed by architect Vittorio Ballio Morpurgo in the 1930s, the building was reimagined by the Antonio Citterio Patricia Viel studio, merging rationalist style with a minimalist aesthetic punctuated by luxurious details: marble mosaics, Murano glass, and a harmonious interplay of natural materials and sophisticated finishes.

In the rooms, History gains a touch of intimacy. We stayed in a Deluxe Room, where the color palette—terracotta tones, ochre, and deep red—echoed the shades of Roman facades at sunset. The bathroom, with Bordeaux marble and intricate mosaics, was more than functional: it was a work of art. And how could I not mention the bed? Framed by a vibrant red headboard and an impeccably textured Bvlgari blanket, it was an invitation to rest after intense days exploring Rome.

From the window, the Mausoleum of Augustus seemed to whisper secrets at dusk—a view that transforms the simple act of being in the room into a journey through time.

It is on the hotel’s terraces and patios that we truly experience the art of Roman living.*

Romito Gastronomy: The Magic of Niko Romito

If there is one thing that distinguishes Bvlgari hotels, it is their attention to detail. When it comes to gastronomy, the Bvlgari Hotel Roma offers experiences that go beyond merely eating. Under the command of the unmistakable chef Niko Romito, each of the hotel’s six dining venues celebrates Italian cuisine with a contemporary touch and his distinctive personal mark.

Il Caffè

At Il Caffè, we lunched under the colonnades of Piazza Augusto Imperatore. This space is open to the city, filled with locals who find the perfect calm to observe the hustle and bustle. One unique feature is that guests can enjoy breakfast here 24 hours a day without any schedules or restrictions. The dishes, though inspired by the simplicity of Roman cuisine, are executed with the lightness and precision of someone who masters the art of turning the ordinary into the extraordinary. From the meticulous selection of bread prepared in-house to the filled “Bombas,” delicate tartare and crudos, the velvety Cacio e Pepe, and the Ravioli al burro, each dish felt like an homage to Italy, without ever losing its balance.

Il Cacio e Pepe

At Il Ristorante, Niko Romito’s approach takes on another dimension. While the terrace offers views that frame the Roman night, the interior creates an intimate atmosphere with mahogany wood and works of art.

The dishes are a manifesto of lightness and pure flavors: from the striking subtlety of the Onion Absolute to the reinterpretation of a classic Spaghetti with tomato sauce, passing through the Vitello Tonnato or the Cotoletta alla Milanese, prepared with detail and precision, everything emerges as a modern reinterpretation of the Italian soul.

The wine pairing, led by sommelier Fabrizio Gismondi, knew how to stray from conservatism, surprising and delighting us—with a special nod to Portugal: it was in our country that Fabrizio began his journey into the world of wine.

The famous tomato pasta by Niko Romito
The Bvlgari Bar

And, of course, I cannot forget the fantastic cocktails at The Bvlgari Bar, which stands out with its black marble counter finished with 110 hand-blown Murano glass spirals with gold dust by Barovier&Toso. Or the Champagne Bar, where a selection of Dom Pérignon is served in an ambiance that is pure hedonism. A toast to luxury—and to life.

Services and Well-Being: A Sanctuary Amid Chaos

Rome is frenetic, chaotic, and passionate. But at the Bvlgari Spa, we find the perfect antidote to the city’s fast pace. With 1,500m² dedicated to well-being, the space is inspired by ancient Roman baths but with Bvlgari’s contemporary touch. The indoor pool, adorned with golden mosaics, is an invitation to absolute relaxation, while the exclusive treatments with the Bvlgari seal promise to elevate the experience to another level of sensations.

The Spa reception and the delicate Bvlgari products*
Gym*

The area also includes one of the best gyms I’ve found in an urban hotel. And by request, it’s also possible to access the exclusive hairdressing service by Roberto D’Antonio.

At Bvlgari Roma, it is possible to imagine all sorts of experiences; just share them with the team, and they will transform any desire into a perfect moment. From lunches in private residences filled with History, exclusive visits to art galleries, or walks through historical sites to getaways in a countryside villa – everything is personalized to the highest level.

La Terrazza is the perfect space for an outing within the city*

Bvlgari Hotel Roma offers spaces accommodating groups of 10 to 50 people for event organization. Whether at the Champagne Bar, La Terrazza with stunning views or the Library, each setting enhances luxury and exclusivity. Special mention to the Library, with its collection of books dedicated to Rome’s History, architecture, and traditions – a perfect setting for intimate events.

Service: Where Luxury Meets Humanity

What truly sets the Bvlgari Hotel Roma apart from other properties is its ability to make us feel unique. From the warm check-in, conducted by a Portuguese employee who accompanied us throughout the process – with genuine friendliness, which remains rare in the ultra-luxury segment – to the restaurant staff, who blend humor and professionalism, everything seems designed to create an authentic connection.

Il Caffè*

There is a rare balance between the formality expected in a hotel of this caliber and the ease that makes the experience both light and unforgettable. The staff at Bvlgari Hotel Roma seems not only trained but also passionate. There is a natural elegance in how they interact, a balance between formality and simplicity.

The Breathtaking Views from the Hotel’s Top Floor*

If the staff uniforms matched their smiles, we would achieve the perfect balance! Yes, we left with the impression that whoever designed the team’s attire did not align it with the elegance of the rest of the hotel. A small detail that, although it does not overshadow the experience, stands out due to the discrepancy.

Conclusion

Being at the Bvlgari Hotel Roma is to be in the heart of the Eternal City, but it is also to rediscover Rome and Fellini’s “La Dolce Vita” – where the past and the future meet, and luxury is not just a promise or the price of a label, but a tangible reality.

Library*

As I observe the Mausoleum of Augustus for the last time, I remember a simple truth: luxury is not only in the marble or mosaics but in the way we are welcomed, in the attention to detail, and in the ability to make us feel part of something greater.

Upon departure, we carry not just the memory of a place but the experience of a feeling that stays with us far beyond the city’s borders.

Rooms from 1500€
Piazza Augusto Imperatore, 10, Rome – Italy

Photos: Flavors & Senses and *D.R.
Text: Cíntia Oliveira
Versão Português
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