Vacation Rentals by Owner

Great Apartment!!

Guest: Daniel Alexander (Anaheim Hills, CA)
Date of Stay: 03/27/12 Review Submitted: 05/21/12

My wife and I stayed at this wonderful apartment to celebrate my wife's 50th Birthday. Pietro and Marina welcomed us when we arrived and made us feel as if we were family. We were given a wealth of information when arriving such as the restaurants the locals go to and places to visit. We also learned about the train/subway system (no reason to rent a car in Italy as the trains are inexpensive and can take you almost anywhere). We were also educated on the customs and given a history lesson on Italy. From the information provided, we dined with the locals (including eating late at night since Italians generally do not start eating before 7:30 PM), and were able to experience a more cultural experience which my wife and I were looking for. The apartment was amazing with an incredible view from the terrace looking towards the Coliseum. The apartment also has a computer and I was able to use my laptop downstairs since this room had Wifi (including Skyping home to talk with and see my son). Pietro was also able to recommend a guide (who I also highly recommend) who gave my wife and I a personalized tour of Pompeii. The apartment was a great base to go out and see all of Rome and was close to the subway/train stations to take a train ride and see other towns (such as Sorrento). Staying in this apartment so close to the Coliseum yet in a quiet neighborhood is much better than staying at a hotel. You will leave feeling as if you are one of the locals. I would highly recommend this place to anyone considering going to Rome.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway.

Like a home away from Home!

Guest: Frank, Sharon and Nick (San Diego, CA)
Date of Stay: 03/14/12 Review Submitted: 03/24/12

Thank you so much for your hospitality toward my wife my son and I. We really appreciated you taking the time to arrange for a driver to pick us up at the Airport and return us to the airport at the end of our vacation. It was well worth the fair to be delivered right to the door of your fantastic penthouse apartment. Marina greeted us and gave us a tour of the apartment, maps of the city and great spots to eat in the neighborhood. We especially enjoyed the bakery across the street, the buffalo mozzerella shop and Boun Amichi where we enjoyed a great lunch with Pietro after taking us on his tour of the Vatican. The apartment was all that the listing described it would be and the view of the Coliseum was spectacular to say the least. We found the space more than adequate for the three of us and could have accomodated a much larger group. We shoppped in some of the neighborhood stores and prepared some of our meals in the well equipped kitchen. We would recommend Pietro as a guide. He has an extensive knowledge of Rome, its landmarks and works of art. He can also tell you interesting story's behind the monuments and the art. If you need a guide to the sites of Rome Pietro is the guide for the job. My son Nick celebrated his twenty fifth birthday in Rome by running in the Roma Marathon. Being so close to the Start at the Coliseum made his day more stress free. Nick finished the race and made us very proud. Marina, Nick wanted me to thank you for your words of encouragment to reach his goal. We had a wonderful experience thanks to Pietro and Marina! Frank, Sharon and Nick San Diego, CA.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

An Awesome Experience!

Guest: Madoregang (Brisbane Australia)
Date of Stay: 01/01/12 Review Submitted: 01/08/12

Though we did not have the opportunity to stay in the apartment shown, Pietro and Marina allow my family and I to stay in Marina apartment for our stay in Rome. The location of Marina's apartment was perfect and the room inside was sufficient for a family of 5. Both Pietro and Marina were wonderful host as they met us at the apartment upon our arrive. Marina made us feel completely at home and Pietro is so full of knowledge, he is a walking Encyclopaedia. If you are planning on staying with Pietro and Marina I would suggest talking the Pompeii tour that Pietro offers. Lets just say it is an awesome experience. Marina, lets just say your help when my wife Cathy needed it was a God Send and your are a very special person. I would recommend staying at the apartment especially the one closest to the Colosseum it would be a great opportunity. Thanks again to you both Pietro and Marina, you made our stay in Rome something truely to remember and we love the Olive Oil. Oh, and the kids are already begging us to return.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, tourists without a car, sightseeing.

Incredible Experience

Guest: Robin (North Dakota)
Date of Stay: 12/21/11 Review Submitted: 12/31/11

Thank you to Pietro and Marina for the most wonderful experience in Rome. We could not have asked for more. The accomodations are perfect, but even better was the hospitality you both extended to our family. For anyone researching the reviews on this listing, it is a spacious apartment with a very convenient location. There are beautiful views, great restaurants, supermarkets, and the metro very nearby. Pietro and Marina are wonderful and the tours Pietro gives are great. Thank you again for this priceless experience!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Excellent

Guest: jr0000 (Danville, CA)
Date of Stay: 12/18/11 Review Submitted: 01/15/12

My wife and I, and our three daughters stayed here for 3 nights in the week before Christmas. Pietro and Marina provided a wealth of information upon arrival...despite it being 11 PM when we arrived. They were helpful in so many ways - from providing a fabulous property to a cell phone for use during our stay. The view of the colosseum at night was awesome. Building and apartment were very clean and quiet. No complaints at all. Would highly recommend this place.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

The Fong Family

Guest: Will (Singapore)
Date of Stay: 12/09/11 Review Submitted: 12/09/11

We just flew into Rome & had a very personal welcome by owners w fresh pastries & bubbly white. My children enjoyed their own room (2 beds) w desk/computer. Loved the copper tub & old fashioned pull string loo. It's a cosy well lived in apt. This 6th floor apt is quiet & has beautiful views on veranda outside master bedroom located on a 7th floor up a17-steps spiral stairs. We have booked tours to Vatican & Pompeii with owners, who truly share their passionate love for all italian culture & food. You will get a printed list of their favorite restaurants/cafes as well as loads of details on attractions etc etc.

Recommended for:Tourists without a car

Wonderful Roman holiday

Guest: Annette C. (San Diego, California)
Date of Stay: 11/29/11 Review Submitted: 12/13/11

We stayed with our two teenagers in Pietro and Marina's apartment and loved every minute of it. It is a funky place with lots of room, a spiral staircase in the middle - an upstairs separate suite for Mom and Dad with a terrace that has fabulous views of the city. Marina greeted us with maps, subway routes and information about Rome that we used throughout our stay. We booked Pietro's tour which we thoroughly enjoyed and which ended with visits to a local bakery which he believed had the best tarts (he was right) and the oldest Gelato factory, which the kids loved. The personal attention was amazing - they even provided us with a cell phone during our stay so we could make local calls and it came in handy more than once. I can't say enough good things about the hospitality provided. The location was also terrific, with the Coliseum about a 5 minute walk away and lots of good restaurants in the neighborhood. It, frankly, seemed a bit scary at first when the taxi dropped us off due to the amount of graffitti, but we learned this is the norm in Rome and the neighborhood was filled with professionals and lots of bustling businesses nearby. You will enjoy your stay here.

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Don't want to stay anywhere else!

Guest: Catherine (Ottawa, Ontario, Canada)
Date of Stay: 11/15/11 Review Submitted: 12/27/11

Seventy glowing reviews may seem a bit unbelievable, but let me assure you, they are all fully justified. The listing, if anything, under-represents this apartment, its amenities, and its ideal location. We were a party of four; myself, my husband, our adult daughter and her friend. Everyone had plenty of room and privacy, we cooked wonderful meals in the well-equipped kitchen, rested from our travels around Rome on the wonderful terrace (which is much larger than the photo suggests) and slept well on the comfortable beds. All in all a perfect stay at a wonderful apartment. The Internet access is good as well (6MB/s my husband tells me) more than adequate for a few hours of tele-commuting everyday, sending files back and forth to our clients. We will be back! I may even book our trips depending on the availability of this apartment.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Another rave review

Guest: Five adults (Virginia)
Date of Stay: 10/26/11 Review Submitted: 01/11/12

There is not much to add to all of the rave reviews already posted about this property, but I did want to say that we four adults, including my elderly father, had a wonderful time here in late October, 2011. The weather was perfect, the location was great, and that terrace really cannot be beat! Marina greeted us very warmly with lots of helpful tips and info sheets, not to mention that bottle of bubbly! And Pietro was unbelievably gracious when we called him at 4 a.m. on the date of our departure because we had not realized the time was changing overnight and we were terribly confused by the differing times on the clocks when we woke up early to catch our cab. I'm only sorry we did not take advantage of their tourguide services, but that gives us something to go back for!

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, sightseeing.

First time to Rome.

Guest: Linda L (Dover, DE)
Date of Stay: 10/08/11 Review Submitted: 10/29/11

We can only add that we agree with all the wonderful reviews. The apartment is perfectly located and Marina and Pietro are wonderful ambassadors to their beautiful city. Do not miss Pietros tours, it was the highlight of our trip to Rome. We cannot wait to return and stay at Via Labicana. We had the absolute best time. Everything went so perfectly. Many thanks to Pietro and Marinas for their kindness and wonderful apartment.

Recommended for:Tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Absolutely Wonderful

Guest: Forever Grateful (Atlanta GA)
Date of Stay: 06/04/11 Review Submitted: 06/15/11

It has been a few days since returning from this lovely apartment and we find ourselves missing it terribly; especially its owners. Marina and Pietro are two of the most wonderful, caring, generous people we have ever met. I was already crazy about them just during the scheduling process. Meeting them was a real treat. They are there to greet you at arrival, complete with beverage and snack. Pietro's knowledge and passion for his city is undeniable. BOOK A TOUR WITH HIM! It is not a "look to the right you see this, look to the left you see that" kind of tour. He languishes over each location, giving a lively history lesson, personal stories, and funny annecdotes. And Marina is the eternal mother, making you feel so welcome with her kind smile and contagious laugh. Our time with them was truly the highlight of our trip, and I was moved to tears when we left them.....like leaving a good friend you know you will not see again for a very long time. The photos of the apartment do not do it justice. It is incredibly spacious, the copper tub gorgeous, the spiral staircase romantic, European queen bed in master is larger than American queen. It is homey and inviting and impeccably clean. Filled with beautiful personal art that I could not believe they keep in their rental! Imagine what the art looks like in their own home! The fact that they share these pieces with their renters is a testament to how wonderful they are. And then there is the terrace; what a gem! It was the first place I went when I woke, where we spent our evenings, and where I found myself one last time each night before going to sleep. It is huge! 'L" shaped, wrapping the corner of the building. We were just two people sitting at an outdoor table built for at least 6 or 8! Their beautiful plants and flowers (that have been obviously carefully tended to) made it feel like a little piece of paradise in the city. Then there is the view. The abbey to the left as well as a garden below. Another garden ahead of you, down below. Ahh, and then the Colesseo, St Peter's and the enormous V.E. right there in all their glory! Morning sun makes them glow, sunset is their backlight, and nighttime is when they twinkle. Pietro and Marina and their apartment will be some of the most lasting memories of our trip. It was home and they were family.... if only for seven days. And I cannot imagine a more amazing seven days.

Recommended for:Families with teenagers, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway.

Awesome view, location and accomodation!

Guest: Joyce (Atlanta,GA)
Date of Stay: 05/31/11 Review Submitted: 06/18/11

We were a group of 7 women who spent 4 nights here. Pietra and Marina were extremely helpful. The penthouse accommodated all 7 of us in separate beds. We enjoyed purchasing food and eating on the terrace with the awesome views.Great location for public transportation and just a few blocks from the Colosseum. Between the penthouse and Pietra and Marina, no wonder why this place is always booked.

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway.

My Amazing Stay in the Penthouse Apartment

Guest: barbara (Marietta, GA)
Date of Stay: 04/20/11 Review Submitted: 05/15/11

What can I say.....this is the most amazing apartment! We loved everything about it..... from the comfortable layout to the incredible views from the terrace. It felt like home the moment we walked in. The location is very convenient. You can walk to all the desirable sights as well as stores, restaurants, banks. Marina and Pietro are fabulous. The were unable to do their tours b/c of unexpected illness, and had someone set them up for us the moment we arrived! And, we were welcomed with a bottle of Chianti and snacks. The master suite is bright and cheerful, not to mention very romantic with a private terrace and spectacular nighttime views. We hope to return to this very apartment soon. Mille gratzi!!!

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Great find!!

Guest: Tourists From USA (Thornton, Colorado)
Date of Stay: 03/27/11 Review Submitted: 04/16/11

This is a wonderful apartment in Rome! Very close to the Colosseum and many restaurants. The subway is about a 10 minute walk from the apartment. It was great to have the convienence of a kitchen for making breakfast. The patio upstairs has amazing views too! We would stay here again!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Great family trip to Rome

Guest: Tony (Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania)
Date of Stay: 01/31/11 Review Submitted: 02/12/11

This apartment was a recommended by a friend who has stayed there several times. The apartment is just great and the support of Marina and Pietro was more that I expected. We are a family of 4 and needed a place to stay without being crammed together. This apartment allowed the kids to have their own beds and bathroom (1st floor bedroom has a queen bed and a full sized loft bed). My daughter loved it so much she wants me to build one for her at home!. Marina organized a taxi to pick us up at the airport and she met us at the apartment giving us an overview of the immediate area (grocery, restaurants, transportation options, etc.) . She provided us with some local wine and other basics and an unexpected local cell phone for making calls in the area - really helpful. The apartment itself is the top floor of the building with a really stunning top floor penthouse and a full bathroom. The view of the collossium, St Peters and the capitol is great. My wife's cousin who lives in Rome, asked for Marina and Pietro's contact information so they can recommend it to friends and family that come to town. It is also just a few minutes walk to both of Rome's Metro Lines, so it is a good central point for sightseeing. Great place, great owner support, can't loose staying here. I already miss it. Tony, Anna, Michela, and Luca.

Recommended for:Families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Perfect Apartment in Rome

Guest: Happy Travelers (Clemson, South Carolina, USA)
Date of Stay: 01/22/11 Review Submitted: 02/18/11

We were very happy with our choice of this wonderful apartment for our vacation week in Rome! The location is so convenient to markets, restaurants, and public transportation. Sitting on the terrace (yes, even in late January) and looking out at the Colosseum was a special experience! We really enjoyed the well-appointed kitchen, helping us to feel "at home". There were unexpected pieces of art and many great books throughout the apartment. For us, the Wi-Fi was essential, and it did not disappoint. The owners, Pietro and Marina, were very helpful, both in advance of the trip and upon arrival. We enjoyed the thoughtful bottle of wine, and the special cookies that were part of our welcome. Being given a local cell phone to use proved very helpful, and we really used the map and prepared lists of nearby shops. Thank you for all the time taken in preparing for your American visitors! A piece of advice: Book FAR ahead of time - this place is a gem and obviously very popular!

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, tourists without a car, sightseeing.

most amazing time in rome!

Guest: sue (providence, rhode island)
Date of Stay: 01/12/11 Review Submitted: 02/07/11

excellent apartment, wonderful views, expert advice. thank you marina + pietro!

Recommended for:Tourists without a car, sightseeing.

A wonderful Rome vacation

Guest: Chris & Jane (Overland Park, KS)
Date of Stay: 01/02/11 Review Submitted: 02/03/11

The apartment was perfect! Location ideal - could walk everywhere! The photos are totally accurate - the view really is that fantastic! Quiet, well equipped. Computer for email and google searching a big plus. Pietro and Marina are so knowledgeable and helpful - and obviously love their city. Would definitely recommend this apartment.

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Great location, wonderful landlords, stimulating tour!

Guest: EduTravler (Springfield, VA)
Date of Stay: 11/20/10 Review Submitted: 12/19/10

We spent 4 nights at Pietro and Marina's Rome apartment. There were 6 of us and the apartment had more than enough room for all. My husband and I stayed in the top bedroom with our en-suite and terrace with a view of the vatican and colosseum.Very workable kitchen. Elevator to get us up to the top. Off street apartment with great views. Location close to shopping, restaurants. colosseum and metro. Pietro's all day tour of room was stimulating and a great way to see the highlights in a day. Marina gave us all kinds of ideas for places to eat and shop. And Pietro even took us to the first Gelato place in Rome. What a treat! A great place to stay at a great price.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, people with disabilities, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Fabulous!!!!!!!!!!

Guest: Kristin (Denver, CO)
Date of Stay: 11/19/10 Review Submitted: 11/24/10

We just got back from a wonderful vacation in Italy. We spent our last two nights at Marina and Pietro's penthouse. It was a fabulous location, within walking distance to everything you need to see in Rome. The apartment was so cute, spacious, and comfortable. Marina met us at the apartment, helped my husband park our car in a nearby parking garage, and even walked us to the train station, so we could catch our Vatican tour. She was SO sweet and accommodating, and made the whole check-in process seamless. We spent ended both of our nights on the terrace, overlooking the city of Rome, with a bottle of wine. It was amazing! I highly reccomend staying here! We were a group of 4, but the apartment could have easily accommodated 2 or even 4 more people. Ciao!

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

PERFECT SETTING TO ENJOY ROME

Guest: Viva Roma (Malibu, CA)
Date of Stay: 07/31/10 Review Submitted: 08/09/10

The pictures of this beautiful apartment are very accurate - the view is spectacular too! Good central location. Pietro & Marina are extremely helpful (Pietro's tour was fabulous) - they thought of the smallest details to make us feel welcome (wine, a list of good restaurants, a map). Good communication prior to arrival. We would definitely stay here again - a BARGAIN!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, families with teenagers, tourists without a car, sightseeing.

Home away from Home

Guest: David (Meridian, Ms)
Date of Stay: 07/09/10 Review Submitted: 07/26/10

I am so glad we found Marina and Pietro's apartment. Marina treats you like one of her children, so helpful and gracious. Every day that went by it became more of a home than just a place to stay. Every afternoon we watched the sun go down over the Colosseum and listened to Rome come alive at night. It is a place I will come back to. My children loved it and you Marina. Thank you Pietro and Marina. Ciao until next time. David and kids

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Rhome Sweet Rhome

Guest: Kathy and Chris (Montreal, Canada)
Date of Stay: 06/04/10 Review Submitted: 06/25/10

The four nights we spent in Marina's appartment as part of our honeymoon were exceptional. For starters, Pietro and Marina made us feel like were were arriving at our parents' place. They created a very cosy and homey atmosphere rich in culture and memories. I would definitely recommend Pietro's tour as he offers not only vast knowledge but a personal perspective of Rome that brings history alive. We appreciated the sparkling clean residence, nothing was missing, including extra vrigin mary olive oil :). We hope to have the priviledge to stay at the Penthouse on our next trip, it is understandably booked ages ahead of time. Pietro and Marina, a monster thank you for an incredibly inspiring stay. Kathy and Chris

Recommended for:Tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Memorable stay in Rome

Guest: Kathy and Carter (New Hampshire)
Date of Stay: 04/28/10 Review Submitted: 06/14/10

Our family of four, including our married son and daughter-in-law, was delighted to find this treasure of a place within walking distance of the Coliseum and Forum. It is a charming apt. with a view from the roof terrace to remember forever! We enjoyed the wonderful welcome from Marina, complete with a spirited conversation about what we wanted to see including maps; restaurants; and and good time-saving advice. What hospitality! We walked all over Rome for three days, had picnics in historic places, enjoyed a jazz concert in the Plaza Navona, connected with young friends who are working in Rome, and experienced the city briefly as residents rather than as tourists! VRBO properties lend themselves to a unique travel experience, and we have recommended this place to many friends! The best part of our stay was the roof deck for watching the city wake up and, at the end of the day, enjoying the evening city lights surrounding the Colosseo. We would go back in a heartbeat!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Guest: sarita rivers (Perth,Australia)
Date of Stay: 02/05/10 Review Submitted: 02/04/10

We stayed in this apartment in January for 2 nights. We were a group of 6 people and found the apartment very spacious and comfortable. The location of the apartment and the view is unbeatable. The owners Pietro and Marina are exceptional people.They are warm, friendly and generous. Pietro's guided tour was a highlight of our holiday. Both of them tried their best to address all our needs and were well prepared with information on restaurants, tourist sights and shopping. The apartment had a lot of touches that made it feel like we were staying in a friend's home. We feel lucky to have found this place and hope to visit again some day.

Recommended for:

Guest: Dylan and Candace (British Columbia/ Canada)
Date of Stay: 01/25/10 Review Submitted: 01/25/10

From the moment we started our email communication, to being greeted with open arms upon our arrival Pietro and Marina treated us like family. It is hard to know where to start! For us the amazing location with a breathtaking view of the Coliseum and Rome was a definite highlight. You can easily walk to all attractions. Perhaps even more amazing was the hospitality. After our long flight we arrived to open arms for our honeymoon. Marina and Pietro arranged a driver and were waiting for us with local treats and wine. They both have an amazing amount of knowledge and gave us the best suggestions for food and attractions. The croissants from across the street are still being missed! While in Rome we stopped using our guide book and relied on the amazing suggestions given by our hosts. The accommodations are wonderful and the rooms are clean and welcoming. We actually had to ‘talk ourselves up’ in order to ensure we did not spend all of our stay at the Vila. Having access to a kitchen was a treat and we enjoyed many fresh home made meals.All of the positive comments and pictures are 100% correct. We can not wait to return and take advantage of a tour by Pietro!

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Guest: Sherry and Ridge Boynton (Fayetteville, GA USA)
Date of Stay: 12/23/09 Review Submitted: 12/23/09

What a wonderful time we had in Rome! Marina and Pietra are so very helpful, telling us all the places to visit from the sites to the best food in town! The apartment is comfortable, clean, convenient and has a breathtaking view of Rome. We hope to come to Rome again and we will definitely stay here (if we can get a reservation). Thank you for helping us create a wonderful family memory.

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Guest: susan sobon (windsor,mass 012709)
Date of Stay: 11/10/09 Review Submitted: 11/10/09

WE are intersted in stayinf Rome for a week visiting our daughter who will be studying jewelry design in Rome. Please e-mail any further information of you place. We also want to travel to Venice for a couple of days. WE are planning on visiting in April 17- April 23. Sue

Recommended for:

Guest: Chris (Monterey, CA USA)
Date of Stay: 11/06/09 Review Submitted: 11/06/09

I'm late in posting this, but I wanted to make sure everybody knew what a great place this is. My mother, partner and I stayed in this amazing apartment for a week starting at the end of April 09. Marina and Pietro couldn't have been more welcoming or kind. Their tips and suggestions were priceless. For me, the amazing view of the Colosseum was enough but the city hold so many amazing things. Besides the obvious, make sure you visit the monastery next door (fascinating) and stop by the mozzarella di bufala store up the street. I didn't know mozzarella was supposed to taste like that!! Thanks Pietro and Marina for helping make our memories of Rome amazing!!

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What a jewel!

Guest: Sheril (Ottawa, ON Canada)
Date of Stay: 09/01/09 Review Submitted: 05/26/10

What can I say about the penthouse and Pietro and Marina? Everything was just as shown, except better! The location was so central-during our month there (September 2009), we were able to walk just about everywhere and shopping for groceries was so convenient. I would recommend a "carrello-shopping cart" if you are on foot though. The owners were so gracious and considerate. I mentioned that the computer (which is included!) was a little loud and they bought a new one! We were met with Prosecco and antipasti, with written directions on how to operate the washing machine, where the best restaurants nearby were and where various shops were. The apartment was very well appointed-down to the little details like olive oil, salt, pepper and herbs. Lots of dishes and pots as well. A cleaning lady came in each week to take care of the place. The place is very well laid out and can accomodate 9 people (but will be crowded). The use of the height in the second bedroom to create a loft sleeping area was great! It also created a little computer area out of the living room. There was a safe and IPod jack as well as a radio - all mod cons! We have reserved for September again this year. There are so many places to explore in Rome that it is impossible to mention all of them. Within steps of the condo is the Colosseum, San Clemente church, San Giovanni in Laterano church, Celio park, Victor Emanual monument and Campidoglio (Capitoline Hill) (about 15 mn away). You are about 2 blocks from the 2 subways and 20 mn walk from the Termini rail station. You will not reget your choice!

Recommended for:Age 55+, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Guest: Marlisa M (Kennett Square, PA)
Date of Stay: 06/01/09 Review Submitted: 06/01/09

It is my pleasure to be adding a comment regarding this beautiful and artistic VRBO property in Rome. Our family of 5 stayed in Pietro and Marina's penthouse in April 2009. This was our 3rd VRBO property experience in Europe and by far the best experience in location, but more importantly, in the attentive care we received from our rental hosts before and throughout our 10 days in Rome. The penthouse has a spectacular view of the Coliseum from the upper terrace, especially at sunset. Our family enjoyed many evening appetizers on this lovely plant-filled terrace. The location is perfect for touring all the ancient sites. The metro is 2 blocks away and was very easy to navigate. The neighborhood was very safe and we felt welcomed in the penthouse complex by the permanent residents we met along the way. With ease we walked to the Vatican, Trevi Fountain and The Spanish Steps from this property. All would agree in my family--the absolute best part of our vacation was the 2 days we took Pietro's tours, it was a priceless experience. Don't hesitate to book a day or two with him...you will not be disappointed in his educational tours. We enjoyed a day in Pompeii and another day in Pisa/Sienna. Pietro is quite the historian and had the unique ability to hold the attention of 3 teenagers...he is an interesting teacher and creative storyteller. Pietro has a world of knowledge in Roman and Etruscan history. Marina was the ultimate hostess! We were warmly greeted by Marina upon arrival and given a thorough tour of the well-stocked and clean penthouse. Also, Marina takes great care in giving tips in and about Rome including maps and a list of recommended restaurants in the neighborhood, as well as, other areas of the city. I know the feeling of trying to decide which VRBO would be the best for your stay in Rome...without any doubt, I highly recommend this property. Enjoy your trip to Bella Roma!

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Guest: Maggie Flynn (St Louis Mo)
Date of Stay: 06/01/09 Review Submitted: 06/01/09

We had a wonderful stay at Pietro and Marina's apartment in May. It's everything the listing says and more. Clean and well appointed, comfortable and a great location with great transportation connections, lots of shops, cafe's. restaurants, and some of the best Sicilain gelato in Italy. The kitchen was well supplied and the air conditioning was a blessing. The washer is a huge plus and the stunning terrace begs one to linger over an ice cold bottle of Frascati. Marina is a delight and got us well settled in and pointed out the best places for buying meats, great cheeses wine and gelato. We were two couples and everyone had plenty of privacy. I'm only sorry that the apartment is already booked for all of next May when we'll be back in Rome.

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Guest: Ryan (Ogden,UT)
Date of Stay: 11/12/08 Review Submitted: 11/11/08

We will be forever grateful to Pietro and Marina for the hospitality they showed us during our stay. We stayed for five nights and it was beautiful. The ladies in our group started to cry when they saw the view from the terrace. We took two of Pietro's tours and they were unforgettable. His stories of Roman history were priceless. We took other tours while in Italy and his were the ones that we remember most. Apartment was clean and ideally located. Thank you Pietro and Marina! Spero di vedervi ancora.

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Guest: Alexandra Breen & Stephen Otvos (Toronto, Ontario)
Date of Stay: 08/13/08 Review Submitted: 08/13/08

We stayed here for our honeymoon and absolutely loved it. You can't be the location or the view from the rooftop terrace. It's absolutely amazing!

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Guest: Steve and DIane2 (Farmington Hills, MI)
Date of Stay: 08/07/08 Review Submitted: 08/07/08

We stayed in this lovely apartment for four nights at the end of our two week trip to Italy. Our three teenagers thought that it was the best place that we had been to and especially liked the computer with internet access. We enjoyed the evenings on the terrace with the best view in all of Rome. The apartment is very well stocked and clean and we had lots of room to spare. The air conditioning kept us very comfortable. We would not hesitate to recommend this beautiful apartment.

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Guest: Sabrina Abney (Dallas, TX)
Date of Stay: 07/29/08 Review Submitted: 07/29/08

We stayed here in April and had the best time. The apartment is clean and easily accommodated all four adults. It is in a great location, with a spectacular view of not only the Coliseum, but you can see all the way to St. Peters. We will definitely be back! Marina is such a wonderful host, when we arrived she had snacks and wine waiting for us and provided us with maps and a list of great neighborhood restaurants. When she found out that the airline had lost our luggage she gave us directions to some local department stores where we could buy cloths that would not cost a fortune. She even offered to come to the apartment to receive our luggage so we could continue sightseeing! (Marina-we finally got our luggage on our way to Tuscany). When she found out that the guys wanted to catch a soccer (football) game, she had her son call us on our cell to tell us where we could get tickets from. Marina, thank you so much for your hospitality, you really made our trip to Rome fantastic!

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Guest: M.E. O. (-)
Date of Stay: 07/02/08 Review Submitted: 07/02/08

We stayed in this apartment for nine nights in June 2008. It was a memorable experience ... in the very best way! Before we even arrived, we were very comfortable with Marina's straightforward and clear communication. She answered our many questions patiently and accurately. When we were unable to purchase our train ticket from Milan to Rome due to computer complications, she and Pietro devised a way to do so on our behalf! The apartment itself was spotlessly clean and well-appointed with many thoughtful details. Pietro studied and lived in the USA for many years, and he has outfitted the apartment with comfort in mind. Marina and Pietro were accommodating, charming and very helpful. They did everything they promised to do, and more. The view of the Colosseum and St. Peter's is amazing, but I also loved waking up to see the ancient church through the other window. There are shops and restaurants within easy walking distance. We took a tour of ancient Rome with Pietro, and it was one of the most interesting and educational afternoons I have ever spent. This is truly a very special setting ... not only is the apartment just wonderful, but we also felt supported and at ease in a large, unfamiliar city ... because of the kindness of Marina and Pietro. I am very happy to be able to share my wonderful experience with you!

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Guest: Robyn4 (Denver Colorado)
Date of Stay: 05/11/08 Review Submitted: 05/11/08

Do not have a moments hesitation in booking this apartment! It is comfortable, bright, clean, and in a great location. The terrace is lovely and the views are stunning. We did a cooking class with Pietro which was one of our favorite days in Rome.Pietro and Marina are gracious, quite knowledgable and willing to regale you with information about the city. We were there for a week in Jan. 2008 and would most definately stay there again on a return trip to Rome. Robyn Vorp and Chuck Citrin

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Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 04/16/08 Review Submitted: 04/16/08

not a bad place

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Guest: Jamie Egan (Framingham, MA)
Date of Stay: 02/28/08 Review Submitted: 02/28/08

We stayed in this apartment for 4 nights in February 2008 and could not have been happier with our choice. Everything that you read in the reviews below is true. You can not find better people than Pietro & Marina to welcome you to Rome and get your vacation off to a great start!! I can not wait for my next visit to Rome so that I can stay here again. Next time I will be sure to make my stay a little longer so that we can go at a slower pace and spend some quality time on the terrace enjoying the magnificent view! Best Regards, Jamie, Jake, Rosa, David & Maria Briana

Owner response:Jamie, thank you, we will be happy to see you again. Pietro & Marina

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Guest: Sheryle Aaron (Grantham New Hampshire USA)
Date of Stay: 01/10/08 Review Submitted: 01/10/08

OH MY Gosh! This is PERFETTO! I was blessed along with my Husband and 4 of our teenage children,to stay in this Apartment from the 24th of Dec.2007 until Jan.4th 2008 From the moment we arrived to the moment the arranged taxi came to pick us up for the airport on the day we were to fly home everything was Perfect!FABULOUS! Pietro and Marina are true gifts! Pietro's Tour was Fantastic he goes above and beyond the call of duty to make your time spent in Rome a treasured memory.I can't wait to return.The view is breath taking, the morning bells of San Clemente will welcome you to a new day, and the pastry shop across the street adds to La Dolce Vita! Pietro I will forever hold close to my heart our time shared on Christmas Eve. Thank you!Thank-you Both We will meet again XXSheryleXX

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Guest: dennis (San Francisco Bay Area, California, USA)
Date of Stay: 01/06/08 Review Submitted: 01/05/08

We stayed in this apartment for 6 nights in October, 2007. All I have to say is "JUST DO IT"!! The apartment is not just a beautiful place to stay, it is a home away from home, a tranquil place to be within the craziness of Rome, and above all....Marina and Pietro are THE most wonderful people. Not only did they help us during our week in Rome (Pietro's tours are marvelous!), but assisted us with finding our family in Sicily. They are true friends. Like I said, "JUST DO IT"!!

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Guest: Barbara Pulsfort and friends (Philadelphia, Pa.)
Date of Stay: 12/05/07 Review Submitted: 12/05/07

We stayed in this terrific apartment from 11/5 to 11/11. It was 2 blocks from the Colosseum,and located in a really nice neighborhood. The owners, Pietro and Marina, greeted us on arrival, with Prosecco and wonderful baked goods. They gave us the location of everything we needed to make our stay very pleasant, and should you stay there, be sure to dine at I Buono Amici, this restaurant was great, make reservations as it fills up very quickly. Next time, I visit Rome, I wouldn't hesitate staying here again!

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Breathtaking View, amazing tours

Guest: backnextweek.com (Southern California)
Date of Stay: 11/20/07 Review Submitted: 08/17/10

We visited Rome and had the pleasure of staying at this condo. We were 4 traveling but this facility could have easily slept more comfortably. The owner picked us up from the airport and we were greeted with local wine and fresh croissants from the baker across the street (which we visited frequently during our stay). We took advantage of Pietro's personalized city tour, airport transfer, Florence tour and Pisa Pompeii tour. I have to say he made our trip the best and most comfortable vacation, with his helpful dining recommendations and warm heart I am recommending this facility to everyone we meet!

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Guest: Sandireg (Murrieta, Southern California)
Date of Stay: 11/01/07 Review Submitted: 10/31/07

Dear Marina and Pietro, Thank you so much for sharing your great apartment in Rome with us! We were so happy when we were welcomed by Marina after a long day on the road. She quickly showed us around the apartment, reviewed the map she had for us and walked us to one of her favorite restaurant! Who does stuff like that these days? Marina does!! The apartment was so awesome! Roomy, clean, spacious and...the view! Wow!! My only regret was that we didn't get to take one of Pietro's tours! I hope we can return one day soon! Thanks again for everything!! Fondly, Sandi, Brooke, Donna, Tiffany and Joy

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Guest: Shawn Mundis (Pittsburgh, PA)
Date of Stay: 10/18/07 Review Submitted: 10/18/07

Pietro & Marina, Thank you for the wonderful stage to start our vacation in Italy. The apartment is fabulous and the view is worth the rent in itself. Marina greeting us after our long journey to Rome set the mood for the rest of the trip. She is a great help and the perfect person to welcome you to Rome. A tour with Pietro should not be missed. Regardless of the sights you pick it will be conversations that you remember. To the technicalities, the transaction was flawless and I am happy to answer any concerns perspective renters may have. We are looking forward to our next stay.

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Guest: The Dunn's2 (Sydney, Australia)
Date of Stay: 09/20/07 Review Submitted: 09/19/07

Pietro & Marina Very remiss of us to take so long to do post this. I will keep it brief - the apartment is superb, the view unamtched and Pietro, our day trip to Pompeii with you as our guide was a highlight of our European Oddysey, your knowledge and interaction with the boys will live with them for a long long time. Thank you so much, Joe, Anne, Patrick & Nick

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Guest: Ed and Diana1 (Ft Lauderdale, FL)
Date of Stay: 08/30/07 Review Submitted: 08/30/07

What an incredible 4 days in Rome with the members of our new extended family – Marina and Pietro. What incredible people they are! So easy to deal with in making the arrangements before our trip, and when we arrived at the apartment Marina was there to greet us with wine, croissants, and juice for the kids. We sat on the outside terrace for more than an hour with Marina who provided us a fantastic overview of the city – its history, the layout, highlighting all the areas and sites to visit, etc. The next day we arranged for Pietro to take us on a half day tour of the city. If you don’t book this time with him, you are certainly missing out on an incredible opportunity. In the 5 hours we spent with him, we learned more about the city and saw sights we wouldn’t have seen even if we took a weeks worth of tours with the major companies. The apartment was great for our family of four, but even when just the two of us return to Rome for another visit, we will definitely stay here. A great location, only a block from the subway and two blocks from the Coliseum and the Forum. Don’t do yourselves an injustice, stay at Via Labicana!

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Guest: Derek, Sue and Claire (Isle of Man. UK)
Date of Stay: 08/30/07 Review Submitted: 08/30/07

A fantastic apartment in which to visit Rome. Very close to the Colosseum and within easy walking distance of both metro lines. Marina met us at the apartment and gave us a guided tour of the apartment and provided lists of local restaurants and places to visit. As it was August, we were very grateful for the air conditioning in all the rooms. The shaded rooftop terrace provided a wonderful view of the Colosseum with St. Peter's Basilica in the background as well as providing a fantastic place for breakfast (pastry shop across the road) or watching the sunset over the Colosseum. Highly recommended.

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Guest: Kathleen9 (Sunrise, FL USA)
Date of Stay: 08/28/07 Review Submitted: 08/28/07

It was a pleasure to rent the apartment from Marina and Pietro. Marina's expertise in making travel plans to booking tours and meals, was excellent and helpful.Pietro's knowledge is endless, his tour was one of the highlights of our trip(interesting to all in our group from age 12 to 70). Their hospitality was warm and welcoming. The location of the apt. was within walking distance to many sights, restaurants and stores. The apt was clean and comfortable. My family feels like we have friends in Rome and are looking forward to a return trip. We would not hesitate recommending the renting apartment.

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