The Vatican City is a timeless symbol of culture and religion in the heart of Rome. Home to the Pope and the core of the Catholic Church, this sovereign city-state has a wealth of historical and artistic glories that draw visitors in their millions every year.
There’s no denying the city’s charming array of attractions, from the distinguished St Peter’s Basilica to the fantastic Vatican Museums. With so much to see and do, it begs the question: what are the best hotels near the Vatican City?
The Vatican has few accommodation options, so the next best thing is the vibrant districts circling the city. There’s a rich list of hotels to pick from, and while many are simply stunning, some are less desirable. As such, this is a curated list of the lodgings around the Vatican that are sure to tick all the right boxes.
So read on to explore some of the best hotels near the Vatican City. Whether you’re visiting on a holy pilgrimage, an art and history expedition, or simply basking in the warm glow of Rome, you’ll find the perfect base for your Vatican escapade right here.
Best Hotels Near the Vatican in Rome
For travelers looking to maximize their Vatican experience, the perfect accommodation near the city center is a must. You’ll find an abundance of stunning hotels surrounding this sacred city.
One such area that has it all is Prati District, offering unmatched opulence and comfort. Whether you want a luxe suite with epic views or charming bourgeois rooms with historic value, there’s an option to satisfy any taste and budget in Prati.
One of the main bonuses of Prati is its location, as it’s no more than a 15-minute walk from the farthest area of the district to the Vatican. This makes visiting all the major attractions like the Sistine Chapel, the Vatican Gardens, and St Peter’s Basilica easy and stress-free.
Adding to Prati’s allure, it’s packed with divine restaurants and boutique shopping experiences in areas like Piazza del Risorgimento. To add the cherry on top, some hotels have stunning Tiber River views.
So, if experiencing the Vatican and getting quick access to its attractions and top tours is your idea of the perfect Rome vacation, pick one of these lovely hotels.
READ: Our guide to Best Vatican tours.
Midrange Hotels Close to the Vatican City in Rome
These midrange offerings have all the lavish extras of a luxury hotel without the extra pinch to your pockets.
Elle Boutique Hotel – 4*
The Elle Boutique Hotel is perfectly positioned a short 300m from the Vatican. Overlooking the Dome of St Peter’s and the Domus Sanctae Marthae, where the Pope currently lives, this quiet hotel offers elegance and style with a Baroque touch.
The standout feature of the rooms is probably the luminous panels above the beds, each in a different colorful design. Some rooms have private terraces, while others are favored for the stunning views. Better still, the Prestige rooms feature a balcony with views of the dome and a private jacuzzi to ensure that extra relief.
Boasting an incredible patio with breathtaking views, Elle Boutique Hotel is the perfect place to relax with a drink from the bar and brush off the dust from traveling along Rome’s streets. There is also a garden to stroll through and meditate >> Check Availability and Prices.
Hotel Paolo II – 3*
Staying at the Hotel Paolo II will let you leave behind the noise of the busy city with its calm and eclectic charm. This building has been around since the turn of the 20th century, hidden in a courtyard in central Rome.
The hotel has a peaceful garden, the perfect place for a quiet cup of tea or afternoon cocktail. Then there are the various rooms, packed with everything you could need and then some. The rooms are well-proportioned, offering comfort and bespoke amenities without the frills and fuss.
Hotel Paolo II is a hop, skip, and jump away from the Holy See, and you can get there without raising your heart rate >> Check Availability and Prices.
The Boutique Hotel – 3*
Hidden amongst the glamour of the Prati District, this lesser-known jewel of Rome offers you value, tranquility, and convenience. The Boutique Hotel is a quaint little hotel less than half a mile away from St Peter’s Basilica, with the dome visible from the hotel.
The hotel is on a busy street, but guests would never be disturbed thanks to the soundproofed rooms. The rooms are fitted with all the essentials and are tastefully decorated in shades of red and nudes.
Since the hotel doesn’t have an on-site restaurant, try Sorpasso, just around the corner, for amazing charcuterie and refreshing cocktails >> Check Availability and Prices.
READ: Our guide to Buying tickets for the Vatican Museums.
Luxury Hotels Near The Vatican City
Opulent hotels near the Vatican certainly aren’t few and far between. Here are premier options, with all the gilded bells, whistles, and ultimate grandeur, ready and waiting to satisfy your every desire.
Villa Agrippina Gran Melia Hotel – 5*
Steeped in history, the Villa Agrippina Gran Melia Hotel was once the home of Emperor Nero and his mother, Agrippina, whom the hotel is named after. A serene escape from Rome’s hustle and bustle, the hotel is surrounded by lush Mediterranean-style gardens perfect for an introspective stroll.
The hotel has a seasonal outdoor pool to cool off after the day’s adventures. There is also an in-house Spa My Blend by Clarins to help you find that inner zen. Indulging in the hotel’s Michelin-starred fine dining at Follie by chef Luciano Monosilio is another must.
The attentively appointed rooms feature all the trappings expected from a 5-star hotel, with some rooms fitted with a private jacuzzi. Others have expansive views of St Peter’s Basilica and the ebbing Tiber River.
Primely situated in a central location in Rome, the hotel is only a few minutes walk from the Basilica and provides a wonderful launch pad for your Vatican expedition >> Check Availability and Prices.
Residenza Paolo VI Hotel – 4*
The walls of Residenza San Paolo VI hold ancient secrets. Located at the site of an Augustinian monastery, this historical marvel is only ten steps away from St Peter’s Square. As the only Vatican City hotel in the square, it’ll be hard to find a better place to stay while you explore the Vatican City. Complete with grand views of the Basilica and the Apostolic Palace, this hotel is a spiritual treat in the heart of the Eternal City.
The terrace is the Residenza’s crown jewel. You can relax here with a drink and admire the magnificent view while classical music floats in the background. On Sundays, the terrace is transformed into a spiritual wonder where you can follow the Angelus of the Pope.
The tastefully furnished rooms are named after great Italian artists, whose works you’ll find inside one of 65 galleries within the Borgia Apartments of the Vatican Palace. Some of the rooms offer a unique view of the Holy Office, the courtyard of the monastery, and even the Dome of St Peter’s >> Check Availability and Prices.
Palazzo Cardinal Cesi – 4*
The Palazzo is hundreds of years old, having been bought and refurbished by Cardinal Pierdonato Cesi in 1400. Since then, it has been converted into this stunning hotel designed by the architects Piacentini and Spaccarelli.
Located in the Vatican District, it is only a few minutes away from all the main sights in the Vatican City, including the Castel Sant’Angelo and the tomb of John Paul II.
The Palazzo has 29 rooms, each gracefully furnished and well-appointed, ensuring a private and relaxed atmosphere. It also offers many helpful services such as transfers, ticket bookings, and exciting private tour opportunities, including attendance at the general audience with the Holy Father.
The hotel also boasts a lovely courtyard garden and a roof terrace. This is where guests can breathe fresh air rolling off the Tiber River and bask in the Italian sunshine. The breakfast offering is particularly well-loved at the Palazzo Cardinal Cesi, and it’s popular for its friendly and helpful staff >> Check Availability and Prices.
LISTEN: To our podcast on the Highlights and Tips for visiting the Vatican Museums.
Family Hotels in Rome Near Vatican City
Traveling with your kids means you need space and comfort to keep them happy. The little extras these hotels include for younger travelers are an added bonus.
Sant’Anna Hotel – 3*
This lovely hotel is ensconced in a 17th-century building in the Medieval Borgo neighborhood. Offering wood-beamed ceilings and colorful, frescoed walls, you’ll feel a Florentine flair inside this quaint little hotel.
The elegant rooms are tastefully decorated, with the attic rooms featuring individual terraces. There are a variety of rooms, including spacious family rooms, which cater to younger visitors without compromising on comfort. The hotel also has a breakfast room, lounge areas, a rooftop terrace, and a courtyard with its own trickling fountain.
Located on a sometimes busy street, you’d expect the Sant’Anna Hotel to be noisy, but it is surprisingly peaceful. The Vatican’s major attractions are only a few minutes walk away, giving this value-for-money establishment the added perk of convenience >> Check Availability and Prices.
Starhotels Michelangelo – 4*
Old-world charm meets contemporary zing in this gorgeous hotel. Starhotels prides itself on embodying genuine Italian hospitality and perfect service, and the Michelangelo delivers on all counts. Hidden amongst Rome’s Baroque delights, the hotel is a desirable retreat after a day’s exploits in the city.
The Starhotels Michelangelo meets all the needs of its guests, with families in mind. The little ones get treated with special meals, including all their favorites, as well as goodie bags and other surprises during their stay.
The excellent rooms are available in various capacities, with the family rooms catering for up to four guests. With the Basilica only a short stroll away, families will see that this hotel is among the best places to stay in Rome due to its lively setting and fashionable aesthetic >> Check Availability and Prices.
Best Western Plus Hotel Spring House – 4*
The Best Western Plus Hotel Spring House is within view of the Vatican City, with a mere 100 m walking distance between you and the Vatican Museum. The hotel is superbly managed and well-staffed, affording guests comfort, ease, and convenience.
There are many family options, with the hotel having triple and quadruple rooms and Junior Suites. All the rooms have ample space and are equipped with chic decor and modern amenities, offering a relaxing stay when you aren’t out in the city.
The hotel also caters to your little ones with curated products and services aimed at making their stay (and yours) as easy and fun as possible. Look out for the colorful plates and cutlery, kids’ special menu, and the other little goodies and extras along the way.
The hotel also has its own fitness center and a trendy terrace lounge where you can have a drink or a quick bite. The verdant garden offers respite from the hustle and bustle of Rome, while the on-site restaurant specializes in traditional Roman dishes >> Check Availability and Prices.
BROWSE: More options in our guide to the Best Family Friendly Hotels in Rome.
Budget Hotels Near The Vatican
Get great value with these affordable options while saving some money for a few extra trinkets on your trip.
Eccelso Hotel – 5*
Built in 1800, the Eccelso Hotel is a shining example of Art Deco architecture in Rome. This lush 12-room boutique inn is a distinguished member of the Small Luxury Hotels of The World, showcasing the hotel’s commitment to excellence.
While the architecture has old-world charm, the rooms within are fitted with a splash of modernity. Each is well appointed with all the comforts expected from a 5-star hotel. A concierge is available to book restaurants or tours, such as the Vatican Key Masters tour, and provide any information you might need. The hotel has a lounge as well as a snack bar to ease that rumble between lunch and dinner.
Eccelso is conveniently located within a 15-minute walk of the Vatican Museum and the Sistine Chapel, making it an ideal base for effortless exploration. Public transportation, like the Ottaviano Metro Station, is also on your doorstep when you stay here >> Check Availability and Prices.
Relais Roma Vaticano – 3*
The Relais Roma Vaticano is positioned in Rome’s affluent Prati District, spotlighting the area’s Art Nouveau spirit. The area has a host of experiences to delight travelers to Italy, the most well-known being its proximity to the Holy City.
This Belle Époque style bed and breakfast has only 12 rooms. This means that guests can enjoy an intimate and serene escape from the noise of the city. There are even a couple of on-site designer stores waiting to dress you for your Italian capers.
The bed and breakfast provides ultimate value for money with both its location and amenities. There are celebrated restaurants and bars nearby, as well as easy access to the Ottaviano Metro Station. The rooms are equipped with comfort in mind, and some have access to cute little wraparound balconies >> Check Availability and Prices.
Camplus San Pietro
The main selling points of Camplus San Pietro are its excellent location and affordable rates. A stone’s throw away from St Peter’s Square, the Vatican Museums, and the Castel Sant’Angelo, you’ll revel in how easy this hotel makes your trip. It’s also near Roma San Pietro Train Station, making getting around the city a breeze.
The facilities at Camplus San Pietro are superb when you consider the cost. All rooms have ample storage, air conditioning, and a workspace, and some rooms have an additional kitchenette perfect for nighttime snackers.
The hotel boasts a quaint garden with adorable outdoor furniture, a sun terrace, a fitness center, and table tennis for competition-hungry guests. There is a bar and the Hum.us Restaurant, offering delectable Italian food, but the hotel is also close to other restaurants in the well-known Prati District >> Check Availability and Prices.
LISTEN: To our podcast on Budget friendly ways to explore Rome.
Apartments Near Vatican City
Do you prefer a more laid-back feel and want to avoid the structure and fluff of hotels? There are many houses and apartments available near the Vatican that are just as comfortable, offering a more intimate experience.
The best place to find the living space of your dreams is with Plum Guide, as each listing is carefully vetted. To make your search easier, here are a few recommendations of the best-loved homes near Vatican City.
- A Secret History (sleeps 6) – right next to the Vatican City, this rustic home in Borgo Pio overlooks the Passeto Papale and is perfect for entertainers with a fully equipped kitchen >> Click for more info.
- Maroon Velvet (sleeps 3) – This apartment at Piazza San Pietro is just outside the Vatican City. The old-world apartment has touches of ironwork, exposed beams, and quaint shuttered windows >> Get the details.
- Holy Ground (sleeps 4) – This home is a stone’s throw away from St Peter’s Basilica and is the perfect place to savor the area’s sights, sounds, and history >> Find More info here.
TIP: When booking a stay on Plum Guide, use ‘Untold5′ to get a 5% discount.
Wrapping Up – Hotels Near The Vatican in Rome
Now that you’ve reviewed some of the best hotels near the Vatican City, planning your visit should be much easier. Whether you require budget-friendly or top-of-the-line luxury, there are plenty of options to match your style and needs.
Choose from locations near the gardens, museums, or the grandeur of the Basilica, resting assured that your Vatican trip will be unforgettable, no matter the choice.
If you need more Italian itinerary ideas, browse through these articles to know what to see, where to eat, shop, and relax while living in La Dolce Vita.
Our team of writers and creatives at Untold Italy are experts in keeping you informed and inspired about travel in Italy. Our team collaboration involves writers, photographers and editorial staff dedicated to sharing accurate Italy travel information.
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