We have just returned from a pleasant stay at the Marcella Royal, the final 3 days of a two week trip to Italy. The hotel was above average for the price we paid and better than other hotels we have stayed in in Italy (we have been visiting for the past 15 years due to a family connection). Although quite small, the rooms were extremely clean, decorated in an old Italian style (fancy fabric wallpaper, lighting etc). The chambermaid kept our room immaculate, not easy when you are sharing with a 13 year old!
All the staff were polite, efficient and friendly - again, far better than other hotels in Italy. It really does make a difference.
The free internet access on the sixth floor was a boon for our son as were the sky sports channels where he was actually able to watch his team (Liverpool) play Sunderland. The only difficulty was prising him out of the hotel!
The roof terrace was lovely - in the evening for a drink, in the morning for breakfast, or to sunbathe on the loungers provided. We did this one afternoon after sightseeing and were totally oblivious to the fact that there was an earthquake ( 4.5 on the richter scale) going on below us!
The breakfast was lovely, hot water perfectly hot for tea, fresh rolls, meat, cheeses and delicious filled croissants.
We did have a meal on our first night on the roof terrace which we found very disappointing for the price - I would definitely recommend eating out. One place we did try - and loved - was the Hard Rock Cafe on the Via Veneto. Excellent food and atomesphere at a great price - ok, so it's not traditional Italian fayre but our son loved it. Try the starter combo!!
I agree with previous comments about the prices in Rome - we knew it would be expensive having been before, but on one occasion sheltering in a bar from the rain were stung with a 20 euro bill for 2 beers, a coke and an iced tea. Our main gripe though was the cost of the taxi back to Ciampino airport - we were quoted 50 to 55 euros by hotel reception who booked it for us. A 40 minute journey took 25 minutes due to the manic driving of our taxi driver who managed to steer and operate two mobiles at the same time. When we got there he told us it was 65 euros. After a bit of arguing I paid up, however please be warned.
Also be careful of pickpockets - we met a lovely swedish couple who were out buying postcards on their final day to show where they had visited, as the previous night their camera had been stolen while at the Spanish Steps, complete with all their holiday snaps.
The hotel is a bit of a walk to the main attractions but we did manage to get transport - the 62 bus to the Vatican and the metro, but if you are not fit you will find it a trek.
Overall, this is a very nice hotel. It doesn't compare to 4 star hotels in UK, but then you don't get four star hotels in the heart of London for approx £70 for three people including breakfast. We would recommend it.