Rocco Forte Hotel de Russie, Rome
More photosRocco Forte Hotel de Russie is a Roman icon nestled between the vibrant Piazza del Popolo and the famous Spanish Steps. Originally designed in the early 19th century by the celebrated architect Giuseppe Valadier, the building has led a storied life. It served as a hub for artists and aristocrats—famously hosting Pablo Picasso and Jean Cocteau in 1917—before later becoming the headquarters for Italy’s national television network, RAI.
The property’s crown jewel is its “Secret Garden,” a lush, terraced paradise also designed by Valadier. This hidden oasis features cascading fountains, ancient trees, and fragrant orange blossoms that once tempted Picasso and Cocteau to pluck fruit directly from their bedroom windows. It remains one of the city’s most enchanting spots for an aperitivo, offering a tranquil escape from the bustling Roman streets below.
Today, the hotel perfectly balances its neoclassical roots with modern luxury. The interior design, overseen by Olga Polizzi and Tommaso Ziffer, fuses classic architecture with eclectic, contemporary flair. Every space feels deliberate, from the mosaic-inlaid spa to the light-filled rooms that celebrate Rome’s rich heritage.
Its central location makes it an ideal launchpad for exploring the Eternal City. You are within walking distance of the high-end boutiques of Via del Babuino, the artistic treasures of the Villa Borghese park, and the historic charm of the Trevi Fountain. Whether you are seeking high culture or quiet relaxation, the hotel offers a sophisticated sanctuary in the heart of Rome.
Expert reviews
“The 120-room hotel just off Piazza del Popolo mixes Art Deco–tinged nods to Rome’s classical past with jazzy homages to Picasso and ballet legend Nijinsky, who stayed here in its previous incarnation.”
“Once the go-to spot for international luminaries such as Pablo Picasso, composer Igor Stravinsky and poet Jean Cocteau, the early 19th century de Russie unveiled a new look in 2000 that uprooted the Eternal City’s traditional atmosphere with a chic, contemporary vibe and quickly propelled the de Russie to the top of Rome’s luxury hotel scene.”
What guests liked
- Top location
- Comfortable beds
- Friendly staff
Location
Recent guest reviews
25 November 2023
It was a great experience
Hotel facilities
Food & Drink
- - Restaurant
- - Bar
- - Breakfast in the room
- - Special diet menus (on request)
General
- - Room service
- - Non-smoking rooms
- - Facilities for disabled guests
- - Barber/beauty shop
- - Lift
- - Safety deposit box
- - Packed lunches
- - Heating
- - Allergy-free room
- - Air conditioning
- - Designated smoking area
- - Airport shuttle (additional charge)
Business facilities
- - Meeting/banquet facilities
- - Business centre
- - Fax/photocopying
Reception services
- - 24-hour front desk
- - Express check-in/check-out
- - Currency exchange
- - Tour desk
- - Luggage storage
Activities
- - Sauna
- - Fitness centre
- - Spa & wellness centre
- - Massage
- - Hot tub/Jacuzzi
- - Cycling
- - Hammam
Outdoors
- - Garden
- - Terrace
Entertainment & family services
- - Babysitting/child services
Cleaning services
- - Laundry
- - Dry cleaning
- - Ironing service
Parking
- - Parking garage
Miscellaneous
- - Smoke alarms
- - Fire extinguishers
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