No wonder Audrey Hepburn used to stay here. The Hassler exudes the same classic elegance she was renowned for. Situated at the top of the Spanish Steps it has the best location and the best views in Rome. And now it is better than ever… they did a big reno and refresh in 2018 in time for the 125th Anniversary, eliminating the smallest rooms and creating more suites. Every room is unique. Roberto Wirth, erudite and charming, is the current, very much hands on owner. He regularly strolls The Hassler keeping an eye on everything. It was his many greats grandfather, Franz-Josef Bucher who started the family hotel dynasty when, in 1870, he bought and developed the then impossible to get to Trittalp area of Switzerland. He built several hotels, a chair lift and railroad to reach the remote spot. He sent his son-in-law, Heinrich Wirth to Rome in 1890 to work at the famous Minerva. It was his son and Roberto’s father, Oscar who joined the Hassler in 1921, later buying full ownership of the hotel. He tore down most of the original structure and began rebuilding in 1939. Not great timing. The US Air Force requisitioned the property and used it as its headquarters. The glamourous ‘new’ Hassler didn’t open unitl 1947. It was an instant hit and favorite of the new jet set celebrities. In addition to Audrey, VIP’s have included Karl Lagerfeld, Queen Noor of Jordan, JFK, President Eisenhower, Robert Downey Jr. and Jennifer Lopez. They continue to flock to The Hassler for its impeccable discretion and faultless service. Many employees have been with the hotel for decades. Daniele Fabrizzi heads the legendary concierge team. They are a truly magnificent resource … I asked about shoes, they sent me to Barilla Boutique for great locally made shoes at fabulous prices. It is worth the splurge for an upper floor room or suite with a view!
Number of Rooms: 87
Sweet Suite: The Hassler penthouse for the views of pretty much everything Rome! It’s on the 8th floor, 330 square meters plus terraces and you can gaze at the Spanish steps, the Piazza do Spagna and the Via Condotti. Even the bathtub has a view!
Favorite Thing: Cocktails on the Roof Terrace… an exquisite tiny space only open to hotel guests (and their guests) with incredible panoramic views over the city, divine cocktails and wonderful nibbles. You’ll find it challenging to leave even in a city a magical as Rome.
Near By: The Hassler is located right at the top of the Spanish Steps so very close to the Trinita dei Monti Church, the Trevi Fountain, Piazza Navona, Villa Borghese and tons of great shopping.
Amenities: Michelin one star restaurant Imago (the first in Rome) , Hassler Bistro (located in the Salone Eva during the winter; outside in the beautiful Palm Court in the summer) spa, hairdresser, fitness room, sauna, steam room, complementary shoeshine, VIP shuttle, gym
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Looks fabulous!