Arco del Lauro B&B

The vivacious Lorenza, a Vespa-riding advertising exec-turned-innkeeper, presides over one of the best new B&B’s in Rome. Outside is the crumbly medieval charm of the quiet, southern side of Trastevere; inside is an oasis of whitewashed, high-ceilinged rooms with sleek and modern fixtures and furnishings. All four rooms are comfortably located on the ground floor of an atmospheric 18th-century palazzo. Lorenza’s infectious enthusiasm creates a cheerful energy at the B&B—and it’s aided later in the evening by her homemade limoncello (made with Ligurian lemons from her grandmother’s garden), always on hand in the communal fridge. Breakfast is included in the nightly rate, but it’s not served on-site. (Due to a loophole in Italian hotel law, B&B’s aren’t actually allowed to “manipulate” food.) Instead, you’ll get a voucher to do as the Romans do, which is head to the bar on the nearest piazza for cappuccino and cornetto (Italian pastry).

Insider Tip: The property has Wi-Fi, but if you don’t want to bring your laptop, there’s a PC in the common area for guests to use.