Tucked discreetly on Via del Vantaggio, just moments from Piazza del Popolo and a short stroll from the Spanish Steps, The First Roma Arte by Pavilions is a boutique hotel that redefines what it means to stay in the Eternal City.
Housed in a 19th-century palazzo once belonging to Roman nobility, the property has been transformed into a contemporary sanctuary where art, luxury, and hospitality converge.
From the outside, it retains the quiet dignity of a historic townhouse. Step inside, however, and you’re immersed in a living gallery. The interiors are curated with works by emerging and established Italian artists, giving the hotel a dynamic, ever-evolving character. It’s not just decoration—it’s dialogue. The design, overseen by Studio Marincola, blends classic Roman materials like Emperador marble and walnut wood with bold textures and rich velvets, creating a space that feels both indulgent and intimate.
The hotel offers 26 rooms and suites, each individually styled and generously proportioned. Entry-level Prestige Rooms feature velvet headboards, bespoke furnishings, and marble bathrooms, while the Arte and First Suites offer separate living areas, curated artwork, and panoramic views of Rome’s rooftops. For those seeking true indulgence, the Spa Suite includes a private jacuzzi on the terrace – a rare luxury in central Rome. Toiletries are by Acqua di Parma, and amenities include Nespresso machines, plush robes, and pillow menus tailored to your sleep preferences.
Dining is a standout feature. Acquolina, the hotel’s two Michelin-starred restaurant, serves refined seafood dishes in a setting that’s as elegant as the cuisine. Upstairs, the AcquaRoof Lounge offers a more relaxed experience, with cocktails and light fare served against a backdrop of sweeping city views. It’s a favourite among locals and guests alike, especially at sunset.
While The First doesn’t offer a spa or gym, it compensates with curated experiences—private gallery tours, bespoke shopping itineraries, and in-room massages can be arranged through the concierge. The hotel’s location makes it ideal for business travellers who want to be close to Rome’s cultural and commercial centres, yet crave a more personalised, design-led experience.
Guests range from art collectors and fashion insiders to honeymooners and solo travellers seeking a refined Roman escape. It’s a place where elegance is effortless, and every detail from the artwork to the wine list feels very considered.
In a city overflowing with history, The First offers something more intimate, a stay that’s not just about seeing Rome, but feeling and living it. For those who appreciate culture, comfort, and quiet sophistication, this is where Rome reveals its most polished side.