Alitalia Sala Giotto Lounge

Alitalia operates several lounges at their Rome hub. The Alitalia Giotto lounge is perhaps the one that sees the most diverse international travelers, since it serves a flurry of additional airlines outside SkyTeam including United, American and Emirates.

Design and amenities

The location of the lounge, in the bowels of the terminal, is somewhat perplexing — from the sun baked departure level, patrons take an elevator or a scary looking emergency staircase to a dark underground entryway, leading to the brightly (neon) lit club which doesn’t have a single window.

The rather bold décor has a disconcerting faux 60s vibe with modern touches. In some regards, it is style over substance: guests are greeted to a well-stocked bar, only to find out that virtually every item is a mere decorative feature. Behind the décor that greets visitor is actually a real bar with a traditional Italian espresso machine and a barista. Unfortunately, all beverages including soft drinks, have to be requested from the bar tender. Around breakfast time, when multiple flights depart for the US and beyond, the ability to pour oneself a glass of juice without waiting in line would be welcome, but perhaps being able to order a glass of complimentary Prosecco makes up for the inconvenience.

Around the bar are located multiple seating areas in a maze-like setting, with hardwood floors and brightly colored dividers. The areas include a TV room, a small relaxation room with napping chairs, as well as spaces conducive to social gatherings. Power outlets are available at every seat. The chairs are comfortable although the furniture has seen better days.

Other amenities include showers — most welcome in the summer when Rome can be painfully hot — as well as complimentary Wi-Fi provided by the airport.

Alitalia Sala Giotto Lounge FCO bottom line

Overall, the Alitalia Giotto lounge at Rome Fiumicino airport is a simple but efficient business class lounge, but as a hub lounge, it fails to impress. The lack of natural light and the line at the bar can be off-putting, and food options are very limited.