Frequently asked questions about guesthouses in Rome

Answers to your questions about your stay in Rome

roma

Location and How to Reach C'est la Vie Suite Guesthouse in Rome's Prati District

You will be staying in one of Rome’s most chic neighborhoods, just 7 minutes from the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica, surrounded by the city’s historic buildings.

You can walk to the Mercato Trionfale to immerse yourself in Roman culinary culture; admire the grandeur of Castel Sant’Angelo and Via della Conciliazione; stroll through the neighborhood’s streets to discover historic artisan shops; and delight your palate at the many restaurants serving traditional local cuisine and much more.

Thanks to its strategic location, the property is also conveniently situated for reaching Rome’s major hospitals—such as Policlinico Gemelli, Ospedale Santo Spirito, San Carlo di Nancy, and Bambino Gesù—as well as the Palace of Justice, the Civil and Criminal Courts of Rome, and the Olympic Stadium.

It is the perfect base whether you are visiting the city for leisure, work, study, or medical reasons.

If you are arriving at Fiumicino – Leonardo da Vinci Airport, you have several options:

  • By train: Take the Leonardo Express to Termini Station (the journey takes approximately 30 minutes). From Termini, take Metro Line A (towards Battistini) and get off at the Cipro – Musei Vaticani stop. From there, it is just a pleasant, short walk to the property.
  • By taxi: Taxis offer a fixed fare for trips to the center of Rome (this includes luggage and up to 4 passengers).
  • By private transfer: Upon request, we can help you book a personalized transfer service that will take you directly to our doorstep, with no waiting or need to change vehicles.

If, on the other hand, you arrive at Ciampino Airport, the options are similar:

  • Bus + metro: take a shuttle bus to Termini Station (approximately 40 minutes), then continue on Metro Line A to the Cipro – Musei Vaticani stop.
  • Taxi: there is a fixed fare for trips to the center of Rome.
  • Private transfer: we can also arrange a direct, convenient, and fast transfer service from Ciampino.
  • All airports are served by shuttle bus companies.

From Termini, take Metro Line A – towards Battistini and get off at the Cipro – Musei Vaticani stop. From there, you can reach the property with a pleasant, few-minute walk.

Yes, C’Est La Vie Suites is located in an area with excellent transport links.

Just a few minutes’ walk away is the Cipro – Musei Vaticani metro station (Line A), which offers easy access to Rome’s main attractions, such as the Spanish Steps, the Trevi Fountain, and Termini.

Bus stops and taxi ranks are also nearby, making it convenient to travel throughout the city.

Parking options include:

  • on-street parking in free, white-lined spaces
  • on-street parking in blue-lined spaces, which require a paid ticket (parking is free on Saturdays and Sundays) between 8:00 AM and 8:00 PM
  • a private, 24-hour guarded parking facility located 200 meters from the property: Dacar Garage, at Via Buccari 5 (for a fee)

Guest house booking and payment

At C’Est La Vie Suites, we offer flexible and transparent booking options designed to best suit your travel needs:

1. Flexible Rate (Free Cancellation)

  • Free cancellation: You may cancel or modify your booking free of charge up to 5 days before your arrival date (by 11:59 PM on the 5th day prior to check-in).
  • Payment terms: No payment is required at the time of booking. The balance will be settled upon check-in, or the amount may be pre-authorized/charged to the card provided as a guarantee in the days leading up to your arrival.
  • Late cancellation or no-show: In the event of a cancellation made within 5 days of arrival, or in the case of a no-show, a penalty equal to 100% of the total cost of your stay will be charged.

 

2. Non-Refundable Rate (Best Price Guaranteed)

  • Exclusive discount: Designed for those seeking the best possible price who have already finalized their travel dates.
  • Payment terms: The full cost of the stay is charged immediately at the time of booking.
  • Conditions: The amount paid is 100% non-refundable; no changes or cancellations are permitted once the booking is confirmed.

The timing of charges for your stay at C’Est La Vie Suites depends on the type of rate selected at the time of booking:

  • Non-Refundable Rate: The total cost of the stay is charged at the time of booking confirmation.
  • Flexible Rate (Free Cancellation): No amount is charged at the time of booking. Payment will be requested upon check-in at the property, or charged to the card provided as a guarantee once the free cancellation period has expired (5 days before arrival).

We accept the following payment methods, both online and on-site:

  • Credit and Debit Cards: We accept major international card networks, including Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, V-Pay, and Italian debit cards (Bancomat) (including contactless payments via smartphone and smartwatch, e.g., Apple Pay and Google Pay).
    Note: American Express (AMEX) cards are not accepted.
  • Bank Transfer: You may pay for your stay via advance bank transfer. This option is subject to prior confirmation and must be completed before your arrival (please send the payment receipt to prenotazioni@romacestlavie.com).
  • Cash: We accept cash payments at check-in, up to the maximum limits established by current Italian law.

Yes! At C’Est La Vie Suites, we reward those who choose to spend more time in Rome with special rates and progressive discounts:

  • 15% Discount for Medium-Length Stays (Minimum 2 Nights): When you book a stay of at least 2 consecutive nights, a 15% discount is automatically applied to the base room rate.
  • 20% Discount for Weekly/Long-Term Stays: For long-term stays or stays of more than a week (7+ nights), we offer a special promotion with a 20% discount on the total cost of your stay.

Discounts are applied automatically when you select your travel dates in our online booking system on our official website. Alternatively, for extended stays of several weeks, business trips, or needs related to medical visits at nearby hospitals (e.g., Policlinico Gemelli, Ospedale Oftalmico, San Carlo di Nancy), you can contact us directly via email or phone to receive a personalized, custom-tailored quote.

Yes, we routinely issue a tax invoice (or receipt) for all stays at C’Est La Vie Suites.

The process for receiving your invoice correctly and automatically is very simple:

  1. Complete the Online Self Check-in Form: Upon confirmation of your booking, you will receive a link to access our online self check-in form.
  2. Enter Billing & Personal Details: During the registration process in our system, you will find a section dedicated to billing information where you can enter:
    • Company or personal name (Company Name / Full Name)
    • Tax ID (Codice Fiscale) and/or VAT number (Partita IVA)
    • Unique SDI Code or Certified Email Address (PEC) (for Italian electronic invoicing)
    • Residential or registered office address
  3. Automatic Delivery at Check-out: Once your stay is complete, the invoice will be automatically generated at the time of check-out and sent via our management system to the email address provided during registration.

Tourist tax in Rome and documents

The city tax (tourist tax) established by the Municipality of Rome for our property is €5.00 per person, per night, up to a maximum of 10 consecutive nights. How and when is it paid? The city tax is not included in the room rate and must be paid online during the self check-in process. Payment of the city tax and the submission of guest identification documents are mandatory steps required to unlock and automatically receive the access codes for entry into the property. Who is eligible for an exemption, and what documentation is required? According to the regulations of the Municipality of Rome, exemptions apply exclusively to the following categories:
  1. Children under 10 years of age (automatic exemption based on an identification document).
  2. Residents of the Municipality of Rome (automatic exemption based on an identification document).
  3. Patients and those accompanying them for medical reasons: Individuals visiting healthcare facilities in the capital (e.g., Ospedale Oftalmico, Policlinico Gemelli, San Carlo di Nancy, Bambino Gesù) for medical appointments, treatments, or hospital admissions, along with one accompanying person per patient (or two accompanying persons in the case of a minor).
  4. Bus drivers and tour guides assisting organized groups.
  5. Members of law enforcement or the armed forces staying in the city for official duty.
  Required Documentation for Exemptions: With the exception of children under 10 years of age and residents of Rome (for whom the identity document uploaded at check-in serves as proof), all other categories must provide and upload appropriate documentation—such as a certificate or statement from the healthcare facility, or an official self-certification form issued by the Municipality of Rome (Roma Capitale)—via the self-check-in form prior to arrival. If the required documentation is not provided, the exemption cannot be applied, and the tourist tax must be paid in full.
The Rome city tourist tax (€5.00 per person, per night) can be conveniently paid online via credit or debit card during the self check-in process—a required step to unlock your stay and receive the access codes for the property. How does the automatic calculation work during self check-in? Our self check-in system is fully automated and intelligent:
  • Booking channel recognition: The system automatically detects the source of your booking (e.g., our direct website, Booking.com, or Airbnb).
  • Age-based calculation: When you upload your identification documents, the system automatically calculates each guest’s age and applies an exemption for children under 10 years old.
  • Precise total: The management system calculates the exact amount due for the tourist tax, ensuring accuracy and preventing incorrect charges.
  Key differences between booking platforms:
  • If you booked via Booking.com or our direct website: The tax is NEVER included in the total shown on Booking.com (as booking portals cannot determine the exact ages of guests or potential local exemptions). Our system will calculate the correct amount during the self check-in process, allowing you to pay it by card in order to receive your access codes.
  • If you booked via Airbnb: The tax IS ALREADY INCLUDED in the total you paid on Airbnb (which collects the fee on behalf of the Municipality of Rome). Since our system recognizes that the booking originated from Airbnb, it will not request any tax payment; it will simply guide you through the document registration process so that your digital keys can be sent to you.
Requesting a valid form of identification (an identity card for EU citizens or a passport for non-EU citizens) is a fundamental legal requirement under Italian public security regulations. 1. Legal Obligation (Consolidated Act on Public Security Laws – TULPS) Pursuant to Article 109 of the T.U.L.P.S. (Consolidated Act on Public Security Laws), all accommodation providers in Italy (hotels, guesthouses, B&Bs, and vacation rentals) are strictly required to:
  • Identify and register all guests (including minors of any age).
  • Transmit guest details to the Rome Police Headquarters (Questura) within 24 hours of arrival via the Italian State Police’s online portal, “Alloggiati Web.”
Without the registration and verification of a valid identity document—either prior to arrival or during the self check-in process—it is legally impossible to grant access to the property or provide entry codes. 2. Privacy Protection and Data Security (GDPR) Your personal data and the photos of your identification documents provided via our online self check-in form:
  • Are handled with complete security through encrypted connections (SSL).
  • Are processed in full compliance with the European General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR EU 2016/679).
  • Are used exclusively for mandatory submission to public security authorities and for compliance with local municipal tax requirements; they are never shared with third parties or used for unauthorized marketing purposes.

Check-in and check-out

At C’Est La Vie Suites, the scheduled arrival and departure times are as follows:

  • Standard Check-in: From 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
  • Evening Arrivals / Late Access up to 12:00 AM (Self Check-in):
    We understand that flights or trains may be delayed. Thanks to our automated self check-in system using access codes, we offer maximum flexibility, allowing for arrival up until 12:00 AM (midnight).
    We kindly ask guests arriving in the evening or at night to be mindful and avoid causing any disturbance, ensuring the peace and quiet of other guests who may be resting.
  • Check-out: By 10:00 AM on the day of departure.
    Please adhere to the check-out time so that our staff can sanitize and tidy up the room for new arrivals.

At C’Est La Vie Suites, accessing your room is simple, secure, and allows you to arrive completely independently—with no waiting around.

Here is how the process works, step by step:

1. Completing the Form and Registering Documents

Before your arrival, you will receive a link to access our online self check-in form. By following the on-screen instructions, you can:

  • Upload identification documents for all guests (ID card or passport).
  • Provide any necessary details for the issuance of an invoice.
  • Pay the Rome city tourist tax (calculated automatically by the system based on the guests’ ages and the booking channel).

 

2. Receiving Access Instructions

Once the procedure is complete, you will receive a message with full access instructions directly via WhatsApp, through the chat feature on the booking portal (Booking/Airbnb), or via both channels. The message will also include the number of the room assigned to you.

3. How to Enter the Property (Step-by-Step)

  • 1st Entrance (Street-level door): In the message, you will find a smart link. Open it on your smartphone and simply swipe your finger across the screen to automatically unlock and open the building’s first entrance door.
  • 2nd Entrance Door (C’Est La Vie Suites): The message contains directions to the entrance door of our property. Next to the door, you will find a key box; enter the numerical code provided in the message to retrieve the key for the main door of C’Est La Vie Suites.
  • 3rd Access to Your Room: Once inside, you will find that our rooms are clearly marked with a number.

Simply locate the door corresponding to the room number indicated in your welcome message to enter your room.

Check-in Times and Quiet Hours: Check-in is available from 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM, with an automatic grace period for entry until 12:00 AM (midnight). For evening or late-night arrivals, we kindly ask that you move about discreetly so as not to disturb the rest of other guests.

The standard check-in time is between 3:00 PM and 9:00 PM.

We understand that flights or trains may occasionally be delayed; thanks to our automated self check-in system, we offer a grace period extending up to 12:00 AM (midnight).

⛔ PLEASE NOTE — Strict Time Limit:

It is strictly impossible to access the property after 12:00 AM (midnight).

The automated access system will not permit entry after midnight, both to ensure the security of the property and to respect the peace and quiet of other guests already staying in their rooms.

How to access the property by 12:00 AM (midnight):

To access the property independently between 9:00 PM and 12:00 AM, you must complete the online self check-in procedure in advance (this includes uploading your identification documents and paying the tourist tax). You will receive the following via WhatsApp or the chat function on the booking platform:

  1. A link for your smartphone to open the first street-level entrance door.
  2. The code for the key box to retrieve the key to the main door.
  3. Your assigned room number.

Yes, we offer a complimentary luggage storage service for our guests, allowing you to enjoy Rome with complete freedom—both on the day of your arrival and the day of your departure!

1. Luggage Storage Before Check-in (from 10:30 AM)

  • Early Luggage Drop-off: You may arrive at the property to drop off your suitcases starting from 10:30 AM.
  • Room Ready Early? If your room happens to be cleaned, sanitized, and ready before the standard check-in time (3:00 PM), we will be happy to provide you with access immediately—at no extra cost!

 

2. Luggage Storage After Check-out

  • You may also leave your luggage with us after checking out (10:00 AM), allowing you to explore the city further before your departure.
  • How it works: To use our luggage storage service after check-out, please contact us in advance via WhatsApp or email.

Our staff will explain in detail the simple procedure for accessing the luggage area and subsequently retrieving your items, in complete autonomy and safety.

No, unfortunately, it is not possible to extend your check-out time, regardless of the cost.

Why is this?

C’Est La Vie Suites is a boutique property with a limited number of rooms (only 5 suites) and a very tight daily schedule of arrivals. Strictly adhering to the check-out time (by 10:00 AM) is essential to allow our housekeeping team to clean, sanitize, and prepare the room to our high quality standards in time for the next guests’ arrival.

An alternative for your final day in Rome:

Although you must vacate your room by 10:00 AM, you are welcome to leave your luggage with us! We offer a complimentary luggage storage service on the day of your check-out, allowing you to enjoy the city until the very last minute without having to carry your suitcases around. (We simply ask that you contact us in advance via WhatsApp or email to receive instructions regarding storage and subsequent pick-up.)

Rooms and Services

At C’Est La Vie Suites, we offer 5 rooms with private bathrooms—all of which are double rooms, ideal for couples or solo travelers. One of these is a spacious family room that can also be configured as a triple or quadruple room, making it perfect for families or small groups. Every room features modern comforts and a welcoming atmosphere, ensuring a pleasant stay in the heart of Rome.

Yes, all rooms have a private en-suite bathroom with a shower, hairdryer, a set of towels, and complimentary toiletries (shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, and hand soap).

While we are not permitted by law to serve breakfast, at C’Est La Vie Suites you will find a complimentary coffee station, designed for you to enjoy a pleasant break at any time of day.
 You can choose from espresso, cappuccino, ginseng coffee, milk, hazelnut-flavored coffee, hot chocolate, and barley coffee, as well as a selection of teas, herbal teas, and infusions.
 We also provide biscuits, candies, and chocolates to accompany your drinks. Additionally, every room includes a minibar (at no extra cost), stocked with water, soft drinks, and light refreshments, to make your stay even more comfortable.

Yes! We offer daily housekeeping, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and a complimentary bottle of water in every room.

Cleaning service is provided daily, free of charge.

  • Cleaning service hours are from 9:30 AM to 12:00 PM.
  • Towels are changed free of charge every 3 nights.
  • For any additional change, there is a surcharge of 5 euros per person, per night.
  • Bed linens are changed free of charge every 5 nights.
  • For any additional change, there is a surcharge of 10 euros per room, per night.