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Villa Agrippina a Gran Melià Hotel
A sprawling villa in Rome’s center
Rome is not exactly known for relaxation, but guests at Villa Agrippina a Gran Melià Hotel will have ample opportunity to do just that. Inside this urban luxury resort, you’ll find respite in the gardens, large pool area, generous spa and beguiling cocktail lounge.
On the edge of the Trastevere neighborhood and steps from the Vatican, the hotel is within ideal walking distance to historic Rome sights, including Piazza Navona, the Pantheon and shopping area Piazza di Spagna. But the Gran Meliá has its own backstory. Villa Agrippina used to sit at this site and was the home of Emperor Nero’s mother. Later, it was converted to a convent before transforming into a hotel. Today, you can live like an emperor in perk-filled suites; indulge in treatments at the spa; dine at upscale Italian spot Follie, decommissioned-church-turned-bar Amaro; or alfresco poolside eatery Gala amind lemon trees, strawberry plants and olive groves.
On the edge of the Trastevere neighborhood and steps from the Vatican, the hotel is within ideal walking distance to historic Rome sights, including Piazza Navona, the Pantheon and shopping area Piazza di Spagna. But the Gran Meliá has its own backstory. Villa Agrippina used to sit at this site and was the home of Emperor Nero’s mother. Later, it was converted to a convent before transforming into a hotel. Today, you can live like an emperor in perk-filled suites; indulge in treatments at the spa; dine at upscale Italian spot Follie, decommissioned-church-turned-bar Amaro; or alfresco poolside eatery Gala amind lemon trees, strawberry plants and olive groves.
Our Inspector's Highlights
- Thanks to gorgeous landscaping and a 1920s-style pool, the Rome hotel has the atmosphere of a private enclave — cabanas, cocktails and secluded gardens.
- If you need more indulgent “me time,” book a treatment at the Gran Meliá’s Clarins & My Blend Spa, where you can take a dip in the open-air vitality pool.
- Children are welcome here, too. The VIK (Very Important Kids) program involves welcome gifts, personalized turndown service, specialized club entry and bespoke tours. In the summer, the hotel provides complimentary kids club entertainment during the afternoon.
- While you might expect strictly classical décor given Gran Meliá’s provenance, the luxury hotel is actually quite modern — historic treasures are mixed stylishly with contemporary, streamlined furnishings.
- Most suites have substantial terraces excellent for their sunset views. The Agrippina Private Pool Villa comes with its own pool and two others offer private gardens and Jacuzzis.
Things to Know
- If you don’t make it out to all the ancient sites of Rome, take comfort in knowing you can peruse the 1st-century archeological pieces found underneath the hotel while it was being built — it was once the site of Villa Agrippina, the home of Emperor Nero’s mother.
The Rooms
- There are 14 room categories, and most have a view of the hotel’s greenery and gardens, Vatican and Rome skyline.
- Modern interpretations of Renaissance and Baroque paintings play off contemporary furniture, and are balanced by soft colors, light wood and stone floors.
- Luxe extras include pillow menus, bespoke Dreamax mattresses, Nespresso coffee machines and stone bathrooms stocked with Carner Barcelona products
Getting There
