The Hotel Raphael is like a little oasis hidden behind the Piazza Navona. Romantically set on a quiet triangular plaza, the ivy covered hotel is picture perfect. We were upgraded to a suite that is basically two rooms and it overlooked the dome of a church next door. The suite was in good condition and the hotel provided a fruit basket. Overall, the hotel had great service and the breakfast buffet was extensive. The most special part of the hotel is it's intimate and private feel despite being minutes off the PIazza Navona as well as the wonderful roof top garden which serves cocktails and/or dinner. Dining al fresco while over looking Rome is really an insider's perspective that should not be missed.

Just got back from 3 nights at the Raphael, a great location that allows easy access to all the major tourist sights. The hotel itself is of a good standard - We stayed in a classic room on the first floor and to echo other reviewers comments the rooms are small (very small) and are feeling their age - The rooms on the other floors have been renovated so I would recommend staying in one of these - We paid just over £280 per night so would have expected a better standard for the money and would have upgraded if possible (the hotel was full so we were unable) but I'll put that down to poor research on my behalf and Rome city prices.
The breakfast was only adequate but the real joy of this hotel is the service you receive from all the staff who do make you feel very welcome. The terrace is a great place to enjoy a bottle / glass of wine after a long day sightseeing - Do that if you can
Overall was this a 5 star hotel? I'm not so sure compared to others I have stayed in but the service certainly goes a long way making up for the building shortfalls

Just got back from 6 nights at the hotel Raphael. Great hotel. Service is top notch, location is perfect to walk to all major sites and walking around the area at night seemed very safe. We had breakfast included in our stay. Although the breakfast Is the same everyday It is quite varied and therefore not repetitive. The wait staff at breakfast is very attentive and professional. We did not eat on the terrace but we did go up a couple of times for some sunset drinks. Beautiful views but somewhat pricey drinks.. Well worth the price to relax after a long day of walking. Overall a great time. if I had to make a negative comment it would be about the noise. It can be somewhat loud in the early morning as our room was in the front of hotel. My husband did seem to sleep right through it but I have to say that it woke me up a couple of times. Having said that I would most definitely return to this hotel when in Rome again.

There was a problem with the reservation at this hotel even before we got there! Two days before leaving home we had a phone call from the hotel saying we had reserved 4 rooms and were liable to be charged for one night on each of the 2 rooms we hadn't booked (and didn't want!) It took numerous phone calls and a lot of stress before this was sorted - not a good start! Then we were initally given a very poor room on the first floor with virtually no daylight, due to looking out on a brick wall. It was also a rather small room - not what I was expecting of a 5 star hotel.
After complaining and saying how disappointed we were , we were moved after the first night and were given the Bramante suite! which obviously made up for the previous distress.
We chose this hotel for it's position - literally a few steps from Piazza Navona and for the fabulous roof terrace. Because we arrived earlier than the designated check-in time we were actually given complimentary drinks on the terrace while we were waiting - a nice touch. I have never stayed in a 5 star hotel before so wasn't sure what to expect but I have to say I do not feel this gives value for money over any 4 star hotel I have stayed in for roughly half the price. Yes, the suite was beautiful and had it's own terrace but I really cannot recommend the "comfort rooms" which cost almost £300 a night. The breakfast was also fairly average - just the usual fruit juices, cereals etc. and cooked items in food warmers - all help-yourself, and again I have had just as good in 4 star accommodation. If you can afford a suite, or a superior room with terrace then I would say stay here but I really would not recommend a basic room!