Grand Hotel de la Minerve

Orient Express La Minerva – Rome As the flagship property of Orient Express in the heart of Rome, expectations were understandably high. Sadly, our experience left us underwhelmed. While the hotel has undergone renovations and recently opened last Spring, the overall impression was that of a space still in transition, with a dated appearance, as if the refurbishment had been left incomplete or constrained by budget. On the 7th floor, the iconic rooftop restaurant and bar invite guests to indulge in Mediterranean cuisine and expertly crafted cocktails while enjoying breathtaking views of Rome’s legendary landmarks. However, the space is in need of a complete renovation, including updates to the staff uniforms to truly reflect the sophistication and prestige associated with the Orient Express brand. For a brand renowned for timeless elegance, luxury and impeccable detail, La Minerva fell short. The charm and grandeur one associates with the Orient Express were noticeably absent. In a city as iconic as Rome, this debut deserved a more polished execution. We left disappointed, hoping future updates will bring the property closer to the standard its name evokes.

From the moment we arrived, it was clear that La Minerva is far more than a luxury hotel, it’s an experience of refinement and calm that captures the spirit of Rome in every detail. The design is exquisite: soft light, hand-crafted materials, and perfectly balanced spaces that feel timeless yet deeply contemporary. Our suite was beautifully appointed with rich woodwork, custom furniture, and thoughtful touches, from the curated mini-bar and artisan teas to the fresh flowers and Bellavista on ice. Every element feels intentional, crafted with soul rather than excess. Breakfast in the atrium was a highlight, serene, elegant, and delicious, while aperitivo on the rooftop terrace, overlooking the Pantheon’s dome at sunset, was pure magic. The atmosphere throughout is quietly luxurious, never showy, with a rhythm that invites you to slow down and simply take it all in. The location is absolutely the best, just steps from the Pantheon and handy to everything Rome has to offer, yet still peaceful and secluded. The team embodies genuine hospitality, gracious, intuitive, and sincerely warm. Service feels personal without being intrusive, perfectly in tune with the Orient Express philosophy of understated excellence. La Minerva is not just a place to stay; it’s a place to feel Rome at its most graceful and poetic. One of the finest hotel experiences we’ve ever had.

Amazing hotel with the best ever service. We have been travelling a lot over the world but this hotel has everything. Perfect location, size, rooms, beds. But what really stands out is the team. From reception, cleaning, breakfast, rooftop, it’s a perfectly managed team. A very special thanks to the outstanding concierge, under the manager Alessandra, they arrange everything. This is a luxury hotel but feels like home. We stayed 4 nights but can’t wait to get back.

What a special hotel, location is primetime. The rooms and service is exceptional, the hotel staff and management treat you like family, we brought our one year old and couldn't have felt more welcomed. My family and I travel to Rome every year and we can confidently say we will not stay elsewhere. We can't wait to visit again.

We spent 5 nights at Orient Express La Minerva as part of an anniversary trip. We had originally booked another hotel, and changed into OE. And boy, how lucky we were. Everything is flawless, starting from staff interaction, a beautiful breakfast with a live Harpist music background, to the room which is just perfect. Couldn't have been a better venue to cap off our anniversary trip. I would say at least a top 3 hotel I have been to... at least. Congratulations to the staff and owners for being able to deliver such an outstanding product. Very well done. (Makes sense to try the rooftop restaurant. Beautiful views, excellent food and drinks)