Review: Orient Express La Minerva Hotel, Rome
Review: Orient Express La Minerva Hotel, Rome
words: Sophie Alexander-Osman
photography: Sophie Alexander-Osman
published: March 10, 2026
Set just moments from the Pantheon in the heart of Rome’s historic centre, Orient Express La Minerva marks the return of one of the city’s most storied hotels. Originally opened in the 17th century before becoming Hotel de La Minerva in the early 1800s, the property has welcomed writers, aristocrats and travellers for generations, occupying a privileged position overlooking Piazza della Minerva.
Today, under the direction of Orient Express and reimagined by designer Hugo Toro, the landmark building has entered a new era, restoring its historic grandeur while introducing a more refined, contemporary identity.
Arriving at the hotel feels distinctly Roman. Narrow cobbled streets open onto the piazza, where Bernini’s elephant sculpture stands beneath the obelisk. Despite being moments from some of the busiest parts of the city, the area feels calm, particularly in the early morning before Rome fully wakes.
The restoration carefully preserves the soul of the building without allowing it to feel overly formal. Marble surfaces, rich woods and original architectural details sit alongside Toro’s softer touches, including custom tapestries and rich velvets, that make the spaces feel elegant rather than intimidating. There is a cinematic quality to the hotel that feels fitting for Rome itself, where history constantly overlaps with modern life.
What makes Orient Express La Minerva particularly interesting is how naturally the Orient Express identity translates into hospitality beyond the train itself. Subtle references to travel run throughout the property, from vintage-inspired detailing to the sense of timeless movement and old-world glamour. Rather than feeling themed, the hotel feels connected to the romance of historic European travel.
The Rooms
The rooms and suites balance classic Roman elegance with a softer, more contemporary design approach. High ceilings, warm lighting and tailored furnishings create spaces that feel calm despite the energy of the city outside. Many rooms overlook the rooftops of Rome or Piazza della Minerva itself, while marble bathrooms, thoughtful detailing and exceptionally comfortable beds make the hotel feel designed equally for both city exploration and complete retreat.
Hangout Spaces
The social spaces are one of the hotel’s strongest features. The lobby feels intimate rather than oversized, encouraging guests to linger rather than simply pass through, while the rooftop terrace at Gigi Rigolatto Roma offers panoramic views across Rome’s skyline. From here, the Pantheon’s dome sits against the Vittoriano monument in the distance. Throughout the property, there is a quiet confidence to the design, where every space feels considered without becoming overly theatrical.
Dining
Dining at Orient Express La Minerva revolves around elevated Italian cuisine served in beautifully restored surroundings. La Minerva Bar provides an intimate setting for coffee, aperitivo and light dishes throughout the day beneath the hotel’s historic interiors, while Gigi Rigolatto Roma has become one of the hotel’s defining spaces. Positioned on the rooftop overlooking Rome’s terracotta skyline, the restaurant brings a Riviera-inspired energy to the capital, particularly at sunset when the city begins to glow across the rooftops.
Nearby Highlights
The location places some of Rome’s most important landmarks within walking distance. The Pantheon sits just around the corner, while nearby streets lead towards Piazza Navona, the Trevi Fountain and the luxury boutiques surrounding Via Condotti. Despite being in the centre of the city, the hotel’s setting around Piazza della Minerva feels slightly set back from the main flow, offering a quieter perspective of Rome whilst remaining connected to its core.
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