We stayed at the Fellini Inn from 10/07/2006 til 14/07/2006 and thought it was great. We're not fussy when it comes to accommodation as we view it solely as a place to sleep, so if the bed is clean and comfortable, we're happy. Yes, the rooms are small, but you're staying right in the centre of Rome for quite a low price.
We arranged a private transfer from Ciampino airport direct to the Inn and were greeted by Jean Pierre who explained about the keys and safe box. He then took a map of Rome and circled the usual sights and drew lines from one to the next - basically outlining a route to follow - we thought this was very helpful. Reception is not 24hr so make sure you arrange a check in appointment before you arrive. It is also next door to the main apartment block where the rooms are located.
We had an ensuite room on the 3rd floor - there is a small lift but it is only really big enough for one person and 2 suitcases. The lift starts on the the first floor, so you'll have to carry the bags up or ask staff to help. The breakfast room is on the 5th floor with a nice little sun terrace. Breakfast consisted of bread, cereal, lovely cream filled croissants, yoghurt, fruit, tea, coffee and juice and was enough to keep us going throughout the day.
The Inn is around 3 mins walk from the Trevi Fountain, 30mins walk from Colosseum and 10/15 mins walk from Spanish Steps. The Vatican was around 30 mins walk as well. We didn't use public transport as we prefer to walk and see the city en route to different places.
There are lots of nice little restauarnts nearby doing pasta main courses for around 8 Euro. Avoid one en route to Trevi (on Via Del La Vatore) called Taberna (I think) - looks like an old cellar and there will be someone outside handing menus to passersby. We weren't impressed - it was dark inside and our table was next to the air conditioning unit which spat water at us. None of the waiters/waitresses smiled, garlic bread wasn't very tasty. The bill arrived in a small trinket box and was just a price written on a piece of paper and we had to ask for a breakdown. We shook our heads at prospective customers on our exit! There are better options with on-street dining on the next street towards the Pantheon (cross Via Del Corso) - look out for the waiter who looks like Pele.
Also watch out for the Pierre Cardin jacket scam around the Colosseum/Circus Maximus - we were flagged down by a guy waving a map and asking how to get to the Vatican. To cut
a long story short, he offers you a couple of 'designer' jackets for being helpful and then demands money for petrol. We gave the jackets back and walked.
So, all in all Fellini was in a great location, helpful staff, clean rooms, value for money and we'd definitely stay there again.