The Ultimate Luxury Travel Guide to Rome

Rome, the Eternal City, is a timeless destination that blends ancient history with modern luxury. From exploring world-famous landmarks like the Colosseum to indulging in Michelin-starred dining, Rome offers a wealth of opulent experiences for the discerning traveler. Whether arriving by private jet or staying in a palatial villa, this guide will help you enjoy the finest that Rome has to offer.

1. Arriving in Rome: Private Jet & VIP Airport Services

Rome’s main international gateway, Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport (FCO), caters to luxury travelers with dedicated VIP services. For private jet arrivals, Ciampino Airport (CIA) is the preferred option, offering private terminals and personalized services for an exclusive arrival experience. To avoid the hassle of commercial terminals, take advantage of FCO’s VIP lounges, fast-track customs, and chauffeur services for seamless entry into the city.

Once you’ve landed, private helicopter transfers can whisk you from the airport directly to your luxury accommodation, ensuring both comfort and speed as you make your way into the heart of the city.

2. Luxury Accommodations: Exclusive Hotels and Private Palazzos

Rome offers some of the most exquisite hotels and palatial residences, where history and modern comfort blend effortlessly.

• Hotel de Russie: Located between the Spanish Steps and Piazza del Popolo, this luxury hotel offers a serene oasis in the bustling city. The elegant suites feature views of Rome’s historic landmarks, and the hotel’s Secret Garden is an ideal retreat. For the ultimate stay, book the Nijinsky Suite, which boasts a private terrace and panoramic views over the Eternal City.

• The St. Regis Rome: A symbol of timeless elegance, The St. Regis Rome is known for its opulent interiors and bespoke service. The Royal Suite is one of the most luxurious in the city, offering large living spaces, classical décor, and access to the St. Regis Butler Service.

• Palazzo Dama: For travelers seeking more privacy, Palazzo Dama is an intimate luxury hotel offering the feel of a private mansion. The suites are lavishly decorated, and the property’s lush garden and pool area provide a tranquil escape from the city’s bustle.

• Private Villas and Palazzos: Rome is home to some stunning private residences available for rental. Opt for a private palazzo in areas like Aventine Hill or Via Veneto, complete with personal staff, gourmet kitchens, and private terraces overlooking the city.

3. Michelin-Starred Dining and Bespoke Culinary Experiences

Rome is a haven for food lovers, with some of the most refined dining experiences available in Italy.

• La Pergola: This three-Michelin-starred restaurant, located at the Rome Cavalieri, offers one of the finest dining experiences in the world. Helmed by chef Heinz Beck, La Pergola presents exquisite Mediterranean cuisine paired with rare wines from an extensive cellar. Opt for the Private Dining Room for a bespoke experience with sweeping views over Rome.

• Il Pagliaccio: With two Michelin stars, this intimate restaurant in Rome’s historic center offers a creative menu combining Italian and Asian flavors. Chef Anthony Genovese’s tasting menu showcases the finest ingredients, and private dining can be arranged for a more intimate experience.

• Enoteca La Torre: Located in the beautiful Villa Laetitia, Enoteca La Torre offers innovative fine dining in a luxurious setting. The tasting menu is paired with top-notch Italian wines, and the private dining room offers an exclusive space for a personalized culinary journey.

• Private Chef and In-Villa Dining: For a more personalized dining experience, many luxury villas in Rome offer private chefs who can create bespoke meals tailored to your preferences. Dine under the stars in your private garden or rooftop terrace, enjoying traditional Roman cuisine made with the freshest ingredients.

4. Exclusive Wellness and Spa Experiences

Rome is not only a city of culture and history but also a destination for relaxation and rejuvenation, with some of the world’s most luxurious spas.

• Cavalieri Grand Spa Club: Located in the Rome Cavalieri Waldorf Astoria, this spa is an oasis of wellness. Offering indulgent treatments using premium products such as La Prairie, you can unwind with a signature Roman Bath Ritual or enjoy a private couple’s suite with personalized treatments.

• Kami Spa: An exclusive spa offering a fusion of Eastern and Western wellness practices, Kami Spa specializes in Ayurvedic treatments, shiatsu, and luxurious facials. Their VIP room, complete with a Turkish bath and private sauna, ensures complete relaxation in a private setting.

• Spa at St. Regis Rome: For those seeking bespoke wellness, the Iridium Suites Spa offers a range of luxurious treatments, from detoxifying facials to hot stone massages. Private spa suites are available for those wanting a more intimate and personalized wellness journey.

• Personalized Wellness Retreats: For an even more bespoke experience, many luxury hotels and private residences offer wellness programs that include private yoga instructors, personal trainers, and tailored spa treatments, all within the privacy of your accommodation.

5. Exclusive Cultural and Historical Experiences

Rome is steeped in history, and luxury travelers can access the city’s most iconic landmarks in style and comfort.

• Private Vatican Tour: One of the most exclusive experiences in Rome is a private after-hours tour of the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel. Enjoy the masterpieces of Michelangelo and Raphael without the crowds, accompanied by a personal guide who can offer in-depth insights into the art and history of the Vatican.

• Colosseum and Roman Forum VIP Access: Skip the lines and experience Rome’s ancient wonders with a private guide. Opt for an exclusive early-morning or late-evening tour of the Colosseum, including access to areas normally closed to the public, such as the underground chambers where gladiators once prepared for battle.

• Private Tour of the Galleria Borghese: This renowned museum houses an extraordinary collection of Renaissance and Baroque art, including works by Bernini, Caravaggio, and Raphael. Arrange for a private, guided tour to explore the museum’s treasures in an intimate setting.

• Exclusive Shopping Experiences: Rome is famous for its luxury shopping districts, including Via Condotti and Piazza di Spagna. Many high-end boutiques offer private shopping appointments, allowing you to browse designer collections from Gucci, Prada, and Valentino in a more exclusive, personal setting.

6. Luxury Shopping: Bespoke Creations and Designer Boutiques

Rome offers some of the best high-end shopping in Italy, from iconic fashion houses to bespoke artisans.

• Via Condotti: This famous shopping street is home to luxury Italian brands such as Bulgari, Ferragamo, and Dolce & Gabbana. Book a private shopping session to explore the latest collections with the help of a personal stylist.

• Cuoio Romano: For a bespoke leather experience, visit Cuoio Romano, where you can design your own custom-made leather shoes, handbags, or belts. Every piece is handcrafted to perfection, ensuring a truly unique luxury product.

• Jewelry at Bulgari: Bulgari’s flagship store on Via Condotti offers a private shopping lounge where you can explore exclusive jewelry collections, including rare gemstones and custom-designed pieces.

7. Nightlife and Exclusive Events

Rome’s nightlife is an elegant affair, with exclusive bars, private clubs, and high-profile events taking center stage.

• Jerry Thomas Speakeasy: For a taste of Roman nightlife with an old-world twist, visit the ultra-exclusive Jerry Thomas Speakeasy, a hidden bar known for its expertly crafted cocktails. To gain access, you’ll need a password, and reservations are highly recommended for this exclusive venue.

• Hotel de Russie’s Stravinskij Bar: This chic bar is a favorite among celebrities and elite travelers, offering an extensive cocktail list and serene outdoor garden setting. Enjoy live music and sip on a signature negroni in one of Rome’s most luxurious bars.

• Exclusive Roman Palaces: For a truly exclusive evening, private galas and events are frequently held in some of Rome’s most historic palazzos. Attending one of these events allows you to mingle with Rome’s elite while experiencing the grandeur of its architectural heritage.

Final Thought Rome is a city that perfectly marries history with modern luxury. Whether you’re staying in an opulent suite with views of the Vatican, dining at a Michelin-starred restaurant, or exploring ancient ruins in private, the Eternal City offers an unparalleled experience for those who appreciate the finer things in life.

In Rome, luxury is not just an indulgence—it’s a way of life.