The grand Hotel Majestic Roma was the first hotel to be built on Rome’s via Veneto and, over 100 years later, it is still one of the street’s most iconic landmarks. A revolving brass door whirls guests into the lobby, creating a sense of occasion even before they have reached reception. In fact, the hotel is so stylish it could make all but the most glamorous of guests feel they are not worthy of walking up those fancy white marble steps.

Hotel Majestic Roma is located in an upmarket part of Rome with a lively atmosphere at any time of the day or night, making it a good choice for those who are exploring the city by themselves and want a safe, well-located hotel. Yes, the area is rather touristy and certainly isn’t the place to come for dinner at an authentic ‘locals-only’ restaurant. However, it is justifiably famous and within walking distance of many of the major sights such as the Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain.

The hotel is also conveniently located near the Barberini metro line for do-it-yourself transport to the rest of the Eternal City’s sights. Of course, you could get one of the doormen to flag down a taxi but one of the joys of seeing a city is getting under its skin by travelling with the locals. The hotel reached its peak in the 1920s when movie stars and high society flocked to the hotel. Black and white photographs lining the hotel corridors create a sometimes whimsical look at times gone by and recapture the magic of the Hotel Majestic Roma’s gracious history.

Our Superior Room was large by Rome standards and had a dramatic red, white and blue colour scheme and sparkling white marble bathroom. Although our accommodation didn’t really have a view, the terrace overlooking Via Veneto certainly did and was a lovely spot for a drink. Even if you aren’t staying here, this elegant and atmospheric bar is well worth a visit. We didn’t dine at the hotel restaurant, Massimo Riccioli Restaurant Bistrot, as it was closed on the Sunday and Monday nights of our visit which was disappointing.

However, we did have breakfast in the elegant, light-filled first floor restaurant. This was a high-quality affair with sparkling wine and a continental selection comprising muffins and pastries, cakes, yogurt, breads, juices, fruit, cheese, cold cuts, smoked salmon, salad, and quiche. There was also a cooked selection including scrambled eggs for €30 per person. The cost for breakfast is the same whether you have it included in the room rate or purchase it on the day.

An additional a la carte breakfast menu provides flexibility for those who want something a little different such as Cantabrico anchovies served with Breton butter, mozzarella and toast (€15) or an omelette (€12). We liked the idea of the a la carte menu but did find it surprising that a property of this calibre was charging an additional €8 for breakfast basics such as fried eggs. Hotel Majestic Roma offers a stylish and conveniently-located base from which to explore Rome’s many and varied sights. With so many things to discover nearby, it is tempting to spend all of your time out and about, but allowing time to relax and soak up the history is a must.

Disclosure: The writer was a guest of the Hotel Majestic Roma.

If you are looking for things to do in Rome, we enjoyed touring the Colosseum and also our food tours around Campo di Fiore and Trasevere. If you are after something a little different, check out these Rome hidden secrets.