Just returned from four nights in this exquisite hotel. We were using Starwood points for the entire stay (which would have cost several thousand dollars otherwise) and checked in with a Starwood AmEx, so the front desk asked us to wait an hour so they could upgrade our room. It was well worth the wait--our room was huge, with two balonies overlooking the Via Veneto! The walls were covered in bright green padded embroidered silk, it was lit by two crystal chandeliers, and the ceiling and columns were carved and gilded. The bath was huge, with a double sink. Our friends' room was slightly smaller, but was decorated similarly (only in red silk!) and also had a balcony. The hotel has two bars, one inside that is tucked away and quiet and another with seating on the street, perfect for people-watching. The staff was extremely helpful and efficient. We loved it and can't wait to go back!

The hotel is very nice, although it is a pretty good walk from the main tourist attractions. Via Veneto is one of the pricier locations for dinner, but the restaurants are pretty cool. Many of the restaurants are located on the sidewalk in glass enclosed buildings that are beautiful at night.

Our room was very nice, but nothing exceptional.

This hotel remains one of Rome's grandest in every way. You must consider that most of the guests are "Starwood Preferrerd" something. It is not easy to upgrade every single guest. The hotel staff will do everything possible to make your stay memorable. The location is fabulous. The Via Veneto is an elegant avenue offering fine dining and shopping. Most attractions are in walking distance. We preferred being here and not next to the Spanish Steps, that are always so crowded. You can walk there in 5 minutes.
The rooms are all different. The "Grand Deluxe" category is nicer then the "Deluxe" if available. The breakfast buffet is one of the best. If you can find an all inclusive package you will not be disappointed.
Most important is the genuinely caring staff. They want you to be happy. If it is in their power to do so, they will!
This is the best hotel in Rome. Families are welcome.
If you have any doubts, contact the hotel directly, before you reserve!

After reviewing countless numbers of hotels in Rome, we decided on the Westin excelsior. We were very pleased with our choice. The location is good, just out of the noisiest areas, but less than a 10 minute walk to the Spanish Steps. On the Via Veneto, just a block form the Borgese Gardens and park( a beautiful place to walk or run) There is a metro stop a couple blocks away.
*** You may have trouble getting a taxi to take you to this hotel from the train station!! It is too close, so they don't want to take you!! We had the first 2 refuse to take us( they made up lame excuses) and the next guy took us but charged us 24 euro!!!...it should be about 15) On the way back to the train from the hotel it is not a problem) I found most of the taxi drivers to be a bit shady in Rome....we walked everywhere!
Because my husband is a Starwood platinum member, we knew we would probably get a room upgrade, which we did.
The reception staff were friendly and helpful. walked us to our room, and were very pleased to show us their new "Westin Workout" room. It was a really nice big room, it is kind of odd in that it has a bunch of workout equipment in the room! Which was OK once you get used to the idea! Huge balcony (no furniture on it) Nice wood floors, beautiful bathroom with heated towel rack, big fluffy towels, glass shower door, good bath products.
I got the best rate directly through the hotel....NOT the SPG website. It's still fairly expensive, we paid about 350 euro/night. ( but we booked only 10 days before we went) No breakfast included and it is 42 euro! No thanks!
Ultimately we decided on the Westin because we wanted to be able to count on having a room that was clean, good bed, great linens, pillows etc., and that is what we got!
If you are not a Starwood member.....I have to admit I saw some rooms with really awful views of walls or funky "courtyards" . some were not decorated nearly as nicely as ours, but at least they all looked like they had the same linens and beds.
Overall, it was really nice, and I would stay there again!
And if you are going to the colloseum in the morning, take the metro there, and get one of the best croissants in Europe at the exit of the station nearest the colloseum!! Yum! ( really!)