I am looking for some suggestions on hotel or b&b recommendations in rome. I'll be traveling everywhere so I'm just looking for a homebase. I was thinking near the coll but didn't know much about the neighborhood (safe or not.) Any suggestions around that area or others would be appreciated.
If you are looking for a base then pick something near Termini which will be your main transportation point. Lots of decent stuff in that area along with restaurants, self laundry, etc.
We stayed at a lovely b&b near the Vatican (10 minute walk.) It is called At Your Place (you can check it out on Trip Advisor, think it is rated #1.) It was very reasonable, and small. The owner, Luca, was wonderful. We had no problem with transportation. Buses located right around the corner. Also, you might want to look into the Roma Pass, a great bargain for transportation and museum entrance fees. Enjoy. I love Rome
What are some good recommendations for around the train station?
Erin, I'm going to Rome for the first time in October and I'm booked at Nicolas Inn. It's close to the Colosseum and Termini and is very highly recommended on this board and Tripadvisor. We got a rate of 144 euro per night if we show them Rick's Rome book. If you PM me, I can give you a personal review when I get back!
Try the Beehive near Termini. It is a hotel/hostel/artspace (very nice) 2 blocks from Termini. Also try this website www.cross-pollinate.com It is a b&b booking agency owned and operated by an American family living in Rome (they also own the Beehive). I have stayed with them many times and they are great to work with and their properties are all over Rome, Florence and Venice. Happy travels!!! They are also recommended by Rick in his book!!
To be right in the center of the action, I recommend the Spanish steps area, and the Hotel Panda is priced right...with good ratings on Trip Advisor. Bill http://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g187791-d298628-Reviews-Hotel_Panda-Rome_Lazio.html