Fodor's Paris - Fodor's (2016)
Where to Stay
Previous Chapter | Next Chapter | Table of Contents
Updated by Jennifer Ladonne
If your Parisian fantasy involves romantic evenings in a historic hotel, awaking to the aroma of freshly baked croissants and café au lait, here’s some good news: you need not be French aristocracy to make your dreams come true. With more than 2,000 hotels, the City of Light gives visitors stylish options in all price ranges, and a place with historic charm is practically a given.
In terms of location and price, there are more hotels on the Rive Droite (the Right Bank) offering formal luxury with premium service than on the Rive Gauche (the Left Bank), where the hotels are frequently smaller and richer in old-fashioned charm. The Rive Droite’s 1er, 8e, and 16e arrondissements are still the most exclusive, and the prices there reflect that. Some of these palatial hotels charge more than €850 a night for standard rooms, and the high-end competition is heating up. On both sides of the Seine, Paris is in the throes of a lodging renaissance in established and up-and-coming neighborhoods, with everything from chic new boutique hotels, like the Christian Lacroix-designed Hotel Continent, to extravagant five-star palaces. Major landmark luxury hotels are rising to the occasion with lavish renovations. In 2014, the Hôtel Plaza Athénée reopened to great fanfare after a 10-month spruce up, incorporating three new buildings. The Shangri-La Hotel Paris and the Hôtel Le Bristol also underwent significant refurbishments over the last few years. All this is good news for high rollers, especially when you factor in extraordinary new lodgings like the Paris Peninsula.
But those on a budget should fear not, because less expensive alternatives on the Rive Droite can be found in the fashionable Marais quarter (3e and 4e arrondissements), and a slew of newcomers have laid their cornerstones in the newly chic 9e. A hotbed of stylish hotels are in the Rive Gauche’s 6e arrondissement; choices get somewhat cheaper in the 5e and 7e. Everything from excellent budget deals to splendid designer spaces can now be found slightly off the beaten track in the 10e, 13e, and 20e arrondissements. Wherever possible, in the more expensive neighborhoods we’ve located budget hotels—check out the handful of budget-priced sleeps in the shadow of Notre-Dame, St-Germain-des-Prés, and the Louvre.
As for the environment inside your room, change has been in the air—literally. Enforcement of the no-smoking law is taken fairly seriously, with few hotels risking the ire of guests well aware of the laws. Amenities have improved, with virtually every hotel now equipped with cable TV (meaning CNN and BBC news in English)—high-definition screens, minibars, in-room safes, and free wireless Internet access. Another recent change is the increasing availability of air-conditioning in both hotels and restaurants—a godsend in the canicules (dog days) of July and August. One thing that hasn’t changed, however, is the lack of elbow room. Indoor spaces—from bed and bathrooms to elevators—may feel cramped to those not used to life on a European scale. If you’re looking for enough room to spread out multiple suitcases, book a suite in one of the city’s luxurious palace-like hotels.
BREAKFAST
Almost all Parisian hotels charge extra for breakfast, with per-person prices ranging from €12 to more than €50. So if you decide to eat elsewhere, inform the staff so breakfast won’t be charged to your bill. Continental breakfast—coffee, baguette, croissant, jam, and butter—is sometimes included in the hotel rate. This is noted as breakfast, in the meal plan section of each review.
CHECKING IN
Typical check-in and checkout times are 2 pm and noon, respectively, although some properties allow check-in as early as noon and require checkout as early as 10 am. Many flights from North America arrive early in the morning, but having to wait six hours for a room after arriving jet-lagged at 8 am isn’t the ideal way to start a vacation. Alert the hotel of your early arrival; while you may not be able to get into your room, you may be able to arrange for baggage storage, especially at the larger establishments.
CHILDREN
Most hotels in Paris allow children under the age of 12 to stay in their parents’ room at no charge. Hotel rooms are often on the small side, unable to accommodate cots or cribs, so inquire about connecting rooms, suites, and floors with strategically placed doors to create private corridors for larger families and groups. In the last few years, almost all of the big luxury hotels have gone the extra mile to attract parents with young children, offering child-friendly activities like swimming lessons, while mom and dad enjoy the spa.
HOTEL FEATURES
Unless stated in the review, hotels have elevators, and all guest rooms have air-conditioning, TV, telephone, and a private bathroom. In France the first floor is the floor above the ground floor (rez-de-chaussée). The number of rooms listed at the end of each review reflects those with private bathrooms (which means they have a shower or a tub, but not necessarily both). Tubs don’t always have fixed curtains or showerheads; how the French rinse themselves with the handheld nozzle without flooding the entire bathroom remains a cultural mystery. It’s rare to find moderately priced places that expect guests to share toilets or bathrooms, but be sure you know what facilities you are getting when you book a budget hotel.
HOTEL QUALITY
Note that the quality of accommodations can vary from room to room. If you don’t like the room you’re given, ask to see another. The French star ratings can be misleading: official stars are granted for specific amenities and services rather than for ambience, style, or overall comfort, so you may find that a two-star hotel eclipses a three-star establishment. Many hotels prefer to remain “under-starred” for tax reasons.
RESERVATIONS
Make reservations as far in advance as possible, especially for May, June, September, and October. Calling directly works, but booking online may be the easiest way to make contact, because hotel staff members are more likely to read English than understand it over the phone. Specify arrival and departure dates, room size (single or double), room type (standard, deluxe, or suite), the number of people in your party, and whether you want a bathroom with a shower or bathtub (or both). Double-check if breakfast, Internet, and taxes are included. Ask if a deposit is required and what happens if you cancel. Always request a confirmation number to verify your reservation upon arrival.
WHAT IT COSTS
Often a hotel in a certain price category will have a few less expensive rooms; it’s worth asking. In the off-season—late July, August, November, early December, and late January—rates can be considerably lower. Inquire about specials and weekend deals, and whether there are better rates if you’re staying a week or longer. There’s a nominal city taxe de séjour ranging between €0.50 and €1.80 per person, per night, based on the hotel’s star rating. Sometimes this tax is included in the room price, sometimes not.
If you’re staying in Paris for more than just a few days, you might want to look into the increasingly popular option of renting an apartment. Not only does this often save in nightly costs, but with your own kitchen you can cook some of your own meals.
USING THE MAPS
Throughout the chapter, you’ll see mapping symbols and coordinates (such as 3:F2) after property names or reviews. To locate the property on a map, turn to the Paris Dining and Lodging Atlas at the end of the Where to Eat chapter. The first number after the symbol indicates the map number. Following that is the property’s coordinate on the map grid.
Previous Chapter | Beginning of Chapter | Next Chapter | Table of Contents
Previous Chapter | Next Chapter | Table of Contents
The Islands | Around the Eiffel Tower | Champs-Élysées | Around the Louvre | Opéra/Grands Boulevards | Montmartre | The Marais | Eastern Paris | Latin Quarter | St-Germain-des-Prés | Montparnasse | Western Paris
In alphabetical order by neighborhood. For expanded hotel reviews, visit Fodors.com.
THE ISLANDS
ILE ST-LOUIS
Hôtel Saint-Louis en l’Isle.
$$$ | HOTEL | The location on the exceptionally charming Ile St-Louis is the real draw of this five-story hotel, which retains many of its original 17th-century stone walls and wooden beams. Tiny balconies on the upper levels have views of the Seine. Corner rooms are brighter and have more spacious bathrooms. Breakfast is served in the vaulted stone cellar. Satellite TV, free Internet, and air-conditioning are welcome amenities. A major plus is the hotel’s reasonably priced airport shuttle service—book an airport pickup when you reserve your room. Pros: romantic location; ancient architectural details; friendly staff. Cons: location is a bit far from the sights; métro stations are not so convenient; small rooms. | Rooms from: €205 | 75 rue St-Louis-en-l’Ile, 4e, Ile St-Louis | 01-46-34-04-80 | www.saintlouisenlisle.com | 20 rooms | No meals | Station: Pont Marie.
AROUND THE EIFFEL TOWER
Eiffel Seine Hôtel.
$$$ | HOTEL | This tiny boutique hotel minutes from the Eiffel Tower mixes contemporary amenities and designer furnishings with Art Nouveau flourishes. There are Gustav Klimt prints in the lounge-bar and breakfast room, where a hearty spread of fresh juices, croissants, brioches, cheeses, yogurts, and fruit is served daily. Despite its location, the hotel has rates that are as attractive as its sleek look (contemporary black-and-white stripes feature heavily). Thoughtful extras include luxurious linens, individual safes, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi. Traveling en famille? Family rooms adjoin two standards to accommodate four to five people. Pros: very close to the Eiffel Tower and Champs de Mars; easy métro access; reasonable rates. Cons: long walk from popular sights; minimal space in standard rooms; street noise in some rooms facing river. | Rooms from: €200 | 3 bd. de Grenelle, 15e, Around the Eiffel Tower | 01-45-78-14-81 | www.hoteleiffelseineparis.com | 45 rooms | No meals | Station: Bir-Hakeim.
Grand Hôtel Lévêque.
$$$ | HOTEL | Sandwiched between casual cafés, this unobtrusive budget hotel is easy to miss, but its prime location shouldn’t be overlooked—the Eiffel Tower and Champs de Mars are around the corner, and one of the city’s finest street markets is literally outside the front door. Friendly and helpful, the staff is quick to share its knowledge. The bistro-style breakfast room next to the reception desk has machines for hot and cold beverages. Rooms have simple furnishings decorated in jewel tones and a few touches of leather. If you’re traveling with infants, ask for a baby cot, changing mat, highchair, and bottlewarmer, all available at the reception desk. Pros: in quiet residential district; some balconies with Eiffel Tower views; free Wi-Fi. Cons: air-conditioning only from June to September; faded decor. | Rooms from: €220 | 29 rue Cler, 7e, Around the Eiffel Tower | 01-47-05-49-15 | www.hotel-leveque.com | 50 rooms | No meals | Station: École Militaire.
Hôtel Cadran.
$$$$ | HOTEL | With its display of customized sweets for sale by trendy chocolatier Daniel Mecier, the lobby of the Cadran looks a bit like a modern chocolate shop. Expect a low-key, minimalist ambience just off the famed Rue Cler. Rooms have flat-screen TVs and large queen- or king-size beds with fluffy duvet comforters. Head downstairs in the morning to the vaulted-stone salle à manger—a colorful modern look, with ambient lighting and black-and-white designer lattice chairs, make it feel more like a hip lounge than breakfast room. Its sister property, the Hotel Valadon Colors, sits across the street. Pros: easy walk to Eiffel Tower and Les Invalides; free Wi-Fi; friendly reception staff. Cons: small rooms; premium prices for district; no restaurant or gym. | Rooms from: €280 | 10 rue du Champ de Mars, 7e, Around the Eiffel Tower | 01-40-62-67-00 | www.cadranhotel.com | 40 rooms, 1 suite | No meals | Station: École Militaire.
Hôtel du Champ de Mars.
$$ | HOTEL | Around the corner from picturesque Rue Cler, this charming, affordable hotel welcomes guests with a Provence-inspired lobby and huge picture windows overlooking a quiet street. Country-style wood furnishings and pretty French cotton fabrics decorate each room. The two ground floor guest rooms open onto a leafy private courtyard. Travelers on a budget will enjoy easy access to public transportation, local bistros, and the district’s famous food market. A simple in-room breakfast service (€9) delights with fresh patisserie, confiture, and café crème. Pros: good value; walking distance to Eiffel Tower, Les Invalides, and Rodin Museum; free Wi-Fi. Cons: small rooms compared to larger hotels; no air-conditioning; inconsistent service. | Rooms from: €150 | 7 rue du Champ de Mars, 7e, Around the Eiffel Tower | 01-45-51-52-30 | www.hotelduchampdemars.com | 25 rooms | No meals | Station: École Militaire.
Hôtel Eiffel Trocadéro.
$$$ | HOTEL | A curious blend of Second Empire and rococo styling awaits guests in this hotel on a quiet corner just off Place Trocadéro. The main floor lounge-bar-breakfast area is a trendy take on neoclassical antiques and art. Some rooms are traditional and relatively small, with old-style French furnishings and draperies; a more contemporary flavor in others gives the property a somewhat eclectic feel. The “eco-friendly” rooms have hypoallergenic bedding and biodegradable amenities, as well as modern conveniences like flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi. Marble bathrooms with whirlpool tubs are a nice touch. Want the best view? Ask for Room 60. Service is friendly and welcoming. Pros: views of Eiffel Tower from upper floors; upscale residential district convenient to métro; organic breakfast buffet. Cons: no full-service restaurant; long walk to city center; basic rooms feel cramped. | Rooms from: €250 | 35 rue Benjamin-Franklin, 16e, Around the Eiffel Tower | 01-53-70-17-70 | www.hoteleiffeltrocadero.com | 16 rooms, 1 suite | No meals | Station: Trocadéro.
Hôtel Le Bellechasse.
$$$$ | HOTEL | If you like eclectic modern interior design, this tiny boutique hotel right around the corner from the popular Musée d’Orsay is a good choice for its access to the major sites. French designer Christian Lacroix helped decorate all 33 rooms and public spaces of Le Bellechasse, from its lime-green bathrooms and ultramodern fixtures to its black-slate lobby floor and multicolored wallpaper. Mismatched velour-and-leather armchairs mingle with quasi-neoclassic art and floral tiling. Floor-to-ceiling windows overlook the elegant courtyard. Each compact room design is unique, but all blend fabrics, textures, and colors, as well as Lacroix’s whimsical characters screened on the walls and ceilings. Most guest rooms have an open-concept bathroom, with the bathtub and sink in a corner and a separate toilet. Pros: central location near top museums; one-of-a-kind style; helpful staff. Cons: pricey rates; street-facing rooms can be noisy; open bathrooms lack privacy. | Rooms from: €400 | 8 rue de Bellechasse, 7e, Around the Eiffel Tower | 01-45-50-22-31 | www.lebellechasse.com | 33 rooms | No meals | Station: Solferino.
Hôtel Le Tourville.
$$$ | HOTEL | This cozy, contemporary haven near the Eiffel Tower, Champs de Mars, and Invalides is a comfortable base for exploring Paris. Each quiet room has crisp, milk-white-and-cream damask upholstery punctuated with a burst of lipstick red. Modern furnishings and original artworks offer an ambience that feels clean, fresh, and upscale without pretension. Two spacious and bright executive suites have their own hot tubs. If you prefer your own private garden terrace, request the junior suite. All rooms have free Wi-Fi and iPod docking stations, perfect if you’re traveling with children. Besides the hotel’s ideal location in a fashionable residential district, an accommodating and attentive staff stands out, providing service with a smile whether at the front desk or in the minimalist bar and salon. Pros: convenient location near métro; friendly service; soundproof windows. Cons: small standard rooms; air-conditioning only during summer months; no restaurant. | Rooms from: €250 | 16 av. de Tourville, 7e, Around the Eiffel Tower | 01-47-05-62-62 | www.paris-hotel-tourville.com | 27 rooms, 3 suites | No meals | Station: École Militaire.
Hotel Valadon Colors.
$$$$ | HOTEL | Sharing facilities with its sister hotel a few steps away, the Hotel Valadon is a bold experiment in contemporary-chic design that appeals to urban creative types. Rooms in lime green and cherry red have modern aesthetics like reflective Lucite paneling, halogen spotlights, and geometric furnishings. Spacious and bright triples and suites are air-conditioned and have flat-screen TVs. With its own private terrace, the family cottage can accommodate up to five people. Pros: candy-colored rooms; large closets and windows; convenient to Rue Cler, Eiffel Tower, and Les Invalides. Cons: check-in at Hotel Cadran; lacks traditional Parisian charm; petite bathrooms. | Rooms from: €280 | 16 rue Valadon, 7e, Around the Eiffel Tower | 01-47-53-89-85 | www.hotelvaladon.com | 12 rooms | No meals | Station: École Militaire.
Le Walt.
$$$$ | HOTEL | The convenient location stands out at this boutique hotel in the chic district between the Eiffel Tower and Les Invalides. Steps to the métro, it’s also an easy walk to major monuments. Wood-floored rooms are cozy, filled with contemporary furnishings, oil-portrait headboards, and rich fabrics in chocolate and plum. The small lobby opens onto a dining room and bar overlooking a private courtyard where breakfast is served in summer. The slightly larger sister hotel, Le Marquis, offers similar services and style a few blocks down the road. Pros: great location; friendly staff; free Wi-Fi. Cons: on a busy street; no hotel restaurant; some complaints about noisy doors in hallways. | Rooms from: €290 | 37 av. de la Motte Picquet, 7e, Around the Eiffel Tower | 01-45-51-55-83 | www.lewaltparis.com | 25 rooms | No meals | Station: École Militaire.
Fodor’s Choice | Shangri-La Hotel Paris.
$$$$ | HOTEL | Displaying French elegance at its best, this impressively restored 19th-century mansion gazing across the Seine at the Eiffel Tower was once the stately home of Prince Roland Bonaparte, grandnephew of the emperor himself, and his gilded private apartments have been transformed into La Suite Impérial. Many of the luxurious historical details have been carefully restored or faithfully re-created for the property’s transformation into the first Shangri-La hotel in Europe. This hotel is already a classic, with half of the rooms facing the Eiffel Tower, and nearly two-thirds with their own balconies. All have ultraglamorous French and Asian touches and the latest technological amenities. Marble bathrooms have deep soaking bathtubs, heated floors, Bulgari toiletries, and TV screens embedded in the mirror. Three highly rated restaurants (including one with a stunning atrium), several cozy lounges, a 24/7 fitness room, a gorgeous indoor pool, and soothing wellness center with therapeutic facials, massages, and body treatments make it hard to ever leave. For the most unforgettable experience, splurge for the spectacular terrace views from the top-floor Suite Shangri-La. Pros: close to the métro and luxury shopping; varied culinary options; exceptional suites. Cons: astronomical rates; pool only open until 9 pm; some obstructed views. | Rooms from: €1100 | 10 av. Iéna, 16e, Around the Eiffel Tower | 01-53-67-19-98, 01-53-67-19-19 | www.shangri-la.com | 65 rooms, 36 suites | No meals | Station: Iéna.
CHAMPS-ÉLYSÉES
Champs-Élysées Plaza Hotel and Wellness.
$$$$ | HOTEL | Discreet, contemporary elegance sums up this graciously renovated seven-story town house steps from the hustle and bustle of the Champs-Élysées. Designer fabrics in aubergine, chocolate brown, tea rose, and slate blue demonstrate the attention to aesthetic details that would have pleased the likes of Marie-Antoinette, who may have well lusted after the sumptuous silks and velvets. From Hermès toiletries to La Durée macaroons, the room’s little touches let you know you can expect a professional, multilingual staff catering to all special requests. It’s no surprise the hotel attracts an upscale clientele and international celebrities who seek a private refuge—splendid rooms and bathrooms are more than spacious, with higher floors boasting lovely city views. Carefully designed layouts with connecting doors accommodate larger families and groups for ultimate privacy. If you splurge on a premium Prestige Room (Nos. 34, 44, and 54 are the best), you’ll feel like a VIP in your own Parisian pied-à-terre. Le Keller restaurant serves seasonal French cuisine, and around-the-clock room service is available. Head to the lower level with its ambient lighting and mirrors to enjoy the hamman, sauna, gym, and Sothy’s spa. Pros: extremely elegant rooms; friendly, attentive service; central location. Cons: small spa; gym only has five machines; limited breakfast buffet. | Rooms from: €390 | 35 rue de Berri, 8e, Champs-Élysées | 01-53-53-20-20 | www.champs-elysees-plaza.com | 9 rooms, 26 suites | No meals | Station: St-Philippe-du-Roule, George V.
Fodor’s Choice | Four Seasons Hôtel George V Paris.
$$$$ | HOTEL | The George V is as poised and polished as the day it opened in 1928—the original plaster detailing and 17th-century tapestries have been restored, the bas-reliefs regilded, and the marble-floor mosaics rebuilt tile by tile. In pale blues and muted greens, the rooms are decked in sumptuous fabrics and Louis XVI trimmings, consistent with the franchise’s ultraluxe standards. Stocked with Hermès toiletries, the bathrooms are marbletrimmed and have TVs hidden behind the mirrors. Book a table at the award-winning Le Cinq, one of Paris’s gastronomic jewels. The low-lit spa and fitness center pampers you with 11 treatment rooms, walls covered in toile de Jouy fabrics, and an indoor swimming pool. Even children get five-star treatment, with in-room video consoles and portable DVD players to distract them at dinnertime. Enjoy the quiet, clublike bar that serves pricey but well-prepared cocktails. Don’t be surprised to be rubbing elbows with show-business elite; the hotel remains a magnet for those in search of reliable creature comfortswho don’t blink an eye at the price tag. Pros: privileged address near top boutiques; courtyard dining in summer; indoor swimming pool. Cons: several blocks from the nearest métro; extra charge for Wi-Fi; lacks the intimacy of smaller boutique hotels. | Rooms from: €1100 | 31 av. George V, 8e, Champs-Élysées | 01-49-52-70-00 | www.fourseasons.com/paris | 184 rooms, 60 suites | No meals | Station: George V.
Hidden Hotel.
$$$$ | HOTEL | The rough-hewn-wood facade heralds the eco-friendly theme of this under-the-radar boutique hotel a block from the Arc de Triomphe, and the interior follows through with handcrafted glass, wood, stone, and ceramic decor. Chic rooms overlook a quiet street, have open-plan bathrooms in black slate and marble, and feature organic Coco-Mat bed mattresses topped with pure linen sheets. Friendly and professional down-to-earth service, cozy-and-cool first-floor sitting areas, and a health-oriented breakfast buffet have given this hotel a loyal following of hip, young design and media types looking for something original. The fitnessminded can book a suite with its own yoga wall. Pros: a block from main métro line and Champs-Élysées; organic toiletries in recycled packaging; free Wi-Fi. Cons: rooms on the small side; open-plan bathrooms offer little privacy; separate entrance and breakfast area for some rooms isn’t intimate. | Rooms from: €270 | 28 rue de l’Arc de Triomphe, 17e, Champs-Élysées | 01-40-55-03-57 | www.hidden-hotel.com | 33 rooms, 2 suites | No meals | Station: Ternes.
Hôtel Daniel.
$$$$ | HOTEL | A contemporary antidote to the minimalist trend, the Daniel is decorated in rich fabrics and antique furnishings from France, North Africa, and the Far East. The lobby at this Relais & Châteaux property feels like a living room, with deep sofas covered with colorful satin pillows, dark hardwood floors, and delicate Chinese floral wallpaper. Rooms have toile de Jouy fabrics, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi. Little luxuries include lavender sachets and padded hangers in the closets and glass jars of sea salts in the marble or Moroccan-tile bathrooms. Room No. 601, under the roof, has a huge claw-foot bathtub. The feeling is rather feminine and pretty, and afternoon tea is popular in the salon. Pros: intimate atmosphere; luxurious decor; close to the Champs-Élysées. Cons: across from a noisy bar; expensive rates; inconsistent customer service. | Rooms from: €420 | 8 rue Frédéric Bastiat, 8e, Champs-Élysées | 01-42-56-17-00 | www.hoteldanielparis.com | 19 rooms, 7 suites | No meals | Station: St-Philippe-du-Roule.
Hôtel de Sers.
$$$$ | HOTEL | Built for the Marquis de Sers with a horse-drawn-carriage entrance, inner courtyard, expansive salons, and monumental staircase, this beautiful structure was transformed into a hotel in 1935. Renovated with a bold modern style and hints of traditional aesthetics, Hôtel de Sers is a magnet for the trendier set who appreciate 21st-century amenities like iPod docks, Wi-Fi access, and chic bathrooms fit for a modern king and queen. Book a suite to enjoy a separate bedroom and living area; for the ultimate splurge, reserve the Panoramic Suite with its own private terrace and unimpeded views of the city. Pros: convenient central location in Triangle D’Or; many dining options nearby; soothing Turkish bath and fitness room. Cons: basic rooms a bit small; no formal spa; on the expensive side. | Rooms from: €500 | 41 av. Pierre 1er de Serbie, 8e, Champs-Élysées | 01-53-23-75-75 | www.hoteldesers-paris.fr | 45 rooms, 7 suites | No meals | Station: Alma-Marceau, George V.
Hotel Elysées Union.
$$$ | HOTEL | This elegant yet unpretentious hotel sits in a residential neighborhood with the Arc de Triomphe in one direction and the Place du Trocadéro in the other. Classic French styling in the common areas and the apartments adds a traditional touch, while the recently renovated rooms blend tasteful contemporary furnishings and luxe fabrics for bit of urban chic. The interior courtyard is a relaxing spot to enjoy the generous petit déjeuner every morning. The excellent central location plus the affordable rates compensate for the absence of full-service amenities. Book a fifth-floor room for romantic views of the Eiffel Tower. Pros: close to sights, restaurants, and métro stations; well-appointed bathrooms; spacious suites are great for families. Cons: no restaurant; no spa or fitness area; extra charge for Internet access. | Rooms from: €230 | 44 rue de l’Amiral Hamelin, 16e, Champs-Élysées | 01-45-53-14-95 | www.elysees-paris-hotel.com | 66 rooms, 7 apartments | No meals | Station: Boissière.
Hôtel Fouquet’s Barrière.
$$$$ | HOTEL | Steps away from one of the world’s most famous streets, this luxury hotel adjacent to the legendary Fouquet’s Brasserie at the corner of the Champs-Élysées and Avenue George V is recognizable by its uniformed valets, parked sports cars, and elegant Haussmannian entryway. The retro design, by Jacques Garcia, is more refined than opulent, with a rich neutral palette in silk, mahogany, velvet, and leather. The hotel competes with Parisian palaces by offering 24-hour butler service, plasma TVs hidden behind mirrors, spacious marble bathrooms, and access to fine dining. Le Diane offers a softer atmosphere than the sophisticated brasserie, and the teak-and-red-walled spa claims to have the largest indoor pool in Paris. Head upstairs to the ultratrendy bar—the perfect place to meet for an apéro before heading to the historic eatery next door. An international, well-heeled crowd, suited businesspeople, trendy wannabes, and the occasional celebrity comprise the guestlist. The staff is is young, friendly, and relatively unpretentious. Pros: many rooms overlook the Champs-Élysées; very close to métro; beautiful spa and fitness center. Cons: very expensive prices; bar can get overcrowded; corporate events give the place a business-hotel feel. | Rooms from: €1000 | 46 av. George V, 8e, Champs-Élysées | 01-40-69-60-00 | www.lucienbarriere.com | 81 rooms, 33 suites | No meals | Station: George V.
Hôtel Lancaster.
$$$$ | HOTEL | Once a Spanish nobleman’s town house, this luxurious retreat dating from 1889 dazzles with its elegant decor, lush courtyard, and international restaurant led by chef Julien Roucheteau. Salons with traditional French furnishings on the first floor make you feel like you’ve entered a private bourgeois mansion. Rooms have been redecorated to reflect l’art de vivre in classic French styling, now with crisp linens, ambient lighting, and the latest technology. There are more than a thousand antiques and 18th-century paintings throughout the hotel, as well as the original wood parquet floors, yet you’ll also find Bose speakers, iPhone docking stations, free Wi-Fi, and double-paned, soundproof windows. The Marlene Dietrich suite (No. 401), where the actress once lived, has its own grand piano and DVDs of her films. The compact fitness room has a splendid view of Sacré-Coeur. Pros: steps away from the Champs-Élysées and five minutes from métro; excellent seasonal menus at La Table du Lancaster; Sunday brunch with organic produce. Cons: size of rooms varies greatly; pricey room service; decor looks tired. | Rooms from: €600 | 7 rue de Berri, 8e, Champs-Élysées | 01-40-76-40-76 | www.hotel-lancaster.fr | 43 rooms, 14 suites | No meals | Station: George V.
Fodor’s Choice | Hôtel Le Bristol.
$$$$ | HOTEL | The historic Bristol ranks among Paris’s most exclusive hotels and has numerous accolades to prove it—and it’s even hit the big screen, featured in Woody Allen’s Midnight in Paris. Some of the spacious and elegant rooms, which benefited from a top-to-toe renovation in 2014, have authentic Louis XV and Louis XVI furniture, embroidered silk fabrics, and marble bathrooms; others have a more relaxed 19th-century style. The public salons are stocked with old-master paintings and sculptures, sumptuous Oriental carpets and tapestries, gilded chandeliers, and fine antiques. The award-winning Epicure—one of Paris’s great hotel restaurants—has a beautiful outdoor courtyard terrace to enjoy in warmer weather. With a chic, contemporary, floral decor,114 Faubourg offers a tantalizing alternative. Sip an after-hours martini in the sophisticated but unfailingly friendly Le Jardin Français or Bar du Bristol, near the lobby that buzzes with a discreet, wealthy crowd. Exclusive Swiss La Prairie products are featured in the eight treatment rooms of the stunning spa, featuring private outdoor terraces andgourmet snacks. Kids can romp in the playroom while parents indulge in a massage. Pros: rooftop pool with views of Sacré-Coeur; on luxury shopping street; one of the best restaurants in Paris. Cons: a few blocks from the nearest métro; old-fashioned atmosphere may not be for everyone; very expensive rates. | Rooms from: €1000 | 112 rue du Faubourg St-Honoré, 8e, Champs-Élysées | 01-53-43-43-00 | www.lebristolparis.com | 96 rooms, 92 suites | No meals | Station: Miromesnil.
Fodor’s Choice | Hôtel Plaza Athénée.
$$$$ | HOTEL | Distinguished by the scarlet flowers cascading over its elegant facade, this glamorous landmark hotel sits on one of the most expensive avenues in Paris. As part of a top-to-bottom face-lift in 2014, the hotel annexed two neighboring town houses and added six new guest rooms, eight suites, a ballroom, and two event spaces. The suites’ interior design, led by Marie-José Pommereau, expertly places contemporary pieces in a luxe traditional setting, culminating in the two quintessentially Parisian Eiffel suites, where the looming tower is framed by floor-to-ceiling windows. Sumptuous rooms enchant with designer furnishings and luxurious conveniences like remote-control air-conditioning, compact sound systems, and even a pillow menu. Alain Ducasse’s signature restaurant—a contender for best restaurant in Paris—was given a glittering new look that reflects the hotel’s haute-couture grandeur, with hautecuisine to match. But the laid-back landmark Relais Plaza brasserie is an excellent, and reasonable, alternative. Relax intrendy Le Bar, redesigned by the Paris-based designers Jouin-Manku to draw a hip, young crowd—it’s an ideal haven for perfectly blended cocktails and celebrityspotting. Pros: Eiffel Tower views; special attention to children; Dior Institute spa. Cons: some design a bit over-the-top; exorbitant prices. | Rooms from: €1100 | 25 av. Montaigne, 8e, Champs-Élysées | 01-53-67-66-65 | www.dorchestercollection.com/fr/paris/hotel-plaza-athenee-paris | 154 rooms, 54 suites | No meals | Station: Alma-Marceau.
Hôtel Raphael.
$$$$ | HOTEL | This discreet palace-like hotel was built in 1925 to cater to travelers spending a season in Paris, so every space is generously sized for long, lavish stays. The closets, for instance, have room for ball gowns and plumed hats. Cozy guest rooms, most with six-foot-tall windows, are decorated with 18th- and early-19th-century antiques, Oriental rugs, silk damask wallpaper, and ornately carved wood paneling. Bathrooms are remarkably large, and most have claw-foot tubs. The rooftop terrace, home to a gastronomic restaurant led by talented local chef Amandine Chaignot, offers beautiful panoramic views. Parents will find a friend in the concierge, who can arrange bilingual babysitters and offers recommendations for kid-friendly restaurants. Pros: a block from the Champs-Élysées and Arc de Triomphe; rooftop garden terrace; intimate hotel bar frequented by locals. Cons: decor can feel worn and dowdy; some soundproofing issues; neighborhood has a majestic yet cold atmosphere. | Rooms from: €650 | 17 av. Kléber, 16e, Champs-Élysées | 01-53-64-32-00 | www.raphael-hotel.com | 47 rooms, 36 suites | No meals | Station: Kléber.
Jays Paris.
$$$$ | HOTEL | Built in the mid-19th century, this discreet mansion with just five suites has a perfect location between the Champs-Élysées and the Eiffel Tower. Each room has a different decor with a colorful blend of traditional and eclectic styles, but each is luxuriously appointed with antiques, artworks, and Clarins toiletries. The staff goes out of its way to make each guest feel pampered—the around-the-clock concierge scores more points for service. The atmosphere is otherwise very quiet, perfect for those who want to escape the bustle of Paris. Pros: personalized service; peaceful setting; handy kitchenettes. Cons: business district lacks charm; modern breakfast room contrasts starkly with historic style; no elevator or accommodations for those with limited mobility. | Rooms from: €490 | 6 rue Copernic, 16e, Champs-Élysées | 01-47-04-16-16 | www.jays-paris.com | 5 suites | Breakfast | Station: Boissière.
La Maison Champs Elysées.
$$$$ | HOTEL | A 10-minute walk from the city’s most famous avenue, this hotel in the heart of the Golden Triangle lures an art-minded crowd with an eclectic twist on a historical Haussmannian belle demeure. Imagine Alice in Wonderland meets Marie-Antoinette and you’ll understand the avant-garde trompe-l’oeil entrance, skewed angles, and light sconces in the all-white reception room illuminating blank walls. The minimalist and quirky interior style is the calling card of enigmatic Belgian designer Martin Margiela, who converted the 1866 building that once belonged to the Duchess of Rivoli. “Boutique” rooms, while small, aim to please with luxurious linens, goose-feather duvets, flat-screen TVs, and Maison Margiela toiletries. Splurge on one of 17 “Couture” rooms, featuring the Curiosity Case suite—with carbon-color walls and floors interrupted by artistic textural elements, and sleek furnishings. Urban chic meets traditional fare in the restaurant serving a seasonal menu. Pros: convenient location close to métro; on quiet street; unique decor. Cons: some rooms seem tired; no fitness center; not good for families. | Rooms from: €380 | 8 rue Jean Goujon, 8e, Triangle d’Or | 01-40-74-64-65 | www.lamaisonchampselysees.com | 51 rooms, 6 suites | No meals | Station: Franklin-D.-Roosevelt.
Le 123 Hôtel.
$$$$ | HOTEL | Italian marble, exposed brick, rough concrete, and sleek wood mix with leather, feathers, Swarovski crystals, and fiber-optic fairy lights to give this boutique hotel a genuinely eclectic atmosphere. Fabrics and framed prints evoke the couture culture of the posh Faubourg St-Honoré, while bathrooms feature retro wall coverings and closets have satin fringe curtains. Conveniently located across from the métro station, the 123 gets extra points for being within walking distance to major sights and shopping. Rooms have nice touches, like free Wi-Fi, iPod docking stations, and upscale linens. The service can be inconsistent, but the polished rooms and lovely bathrooms will put you in a prime location without exhorbitant prices. Pros: chic decor; near luxury shopping; hotel bar open daily. Cons: service can be impolite; no on-site restaurant; some rooms quite small for the price. | Rooms from: €350 | 123 rue du Faubourg St-Honoré, 8e, Champs-Élysées | 01-53-89-01-23 | www.astotel.com/hotel-le123-elysees-paris.php | 41 rooms | No meals | Station: St-Philippe du Roule, Franklin-D.-Roosevelt.
Fodor’s Choice | Le Royal Monceau Raffles Paris.
$$$$ | HOTEL | The glamorous Royal Monceau Raffles offers unparalleled luxury along with a hefty dose of cool. The Philippe Starck decor aims for a cosmopolitan ambience, mixing contemporary artworks with burnished-wood finishes, glittering chandeliers, and mirrors galore. Impeccable rooms and suites are flooded with light and filled with streamlined furnishings and quirky accents like acoustic guitars. The public spaces are surprisingly intimate. Anticipating your every need is the hotel’s credo, as evidenced by its two Michelin-starred restaurants, superb bookstore, art gallery, cigar bar, L’Eclaireur fashion boutique, and the largest hotel pool in Paris. Pros: ethereal spa and fitness center; art and cooking ateliers for kids; gorgeous terrace garden. Cons: prices exceed a king’s ransom. | Rooms from: €750 | 37 av. Hoche, 8e,Champs-Élysées | 01-42-99-88-00 | www.leroyalmonceau.com | 85 rooms, 64 suites | No meals | Station: Charles-de-Gaulle-Étoile.
Le Swann Hôtel.
$$ | HOTEL | This delightful modern hôtel littéraire pays homage to France’s greatest literary lion, Marcel Proust. Pros: not far from the big department stores; close to public transport; views from some rooms. Cons: some street noise; bathrooms are miniscule. | Rooms from: €150 | 15 rue de Constantinople, 8e, Champs-Élysées | 01-45-22-80-80 | www.hotel-leswann.com | 81 rooms | No meals | Station: Europe, Villiers, Rome.
Mon Hotel.
$$$$ | HOTEL | The contemporary design, modern comforts, and close proximity to the Arc de Triomphe and Champs-Élysées—a 10-minute walk away—are big draws at this stylish boutique hotel. The lobby is dramatic, but the rooms are more intimate, with neutral color schemes, chamois wall coverings, and black-and-white portraits of famous personalities. High-tech amenities include MP3 docking stations and Nespresso machines in some rooms, as well as TVs with more than 1,000 satellite channels. Relax in the purple-velour restaurant serving fusion cuisine, or at the private spa with its own Turkish bath. Pros: unique contemporary styling; convenient to the métro; quiet residential street. Cons: some rooms have limited closet space; no extra beds for children; breakfast costs extra. | Rooms from: €280 | 1-5 rue d’Argentine, 16e, Champs-Élysées | 01-45-02-76-76 | www.monhotel.fr | 36 rooms | No meals | Station: Argentine.
Fodor’s Choice | The Peninsula Paris.
$$$$ | HOTEL | After a $900 million renovation that restored the luster of this gem dating from 1908, the lavishly appointed Peninsula raises the bar for luxury hotels in Paris. Pros: luxurious touches abound; the city’s most beautiful spa; amazing views from higher floors. Cons: price out of reach for most mortals; not centrally located; still working out service kinks. | Rooms from: €795 | 19 ave. Kléber, Champs-Élysées | 01-58-12-28-88 | paris.peninsula.com | 166 rooms, 34 suites | No meals | Station: Kléber, Etoile.
Pershing Hall.
$$$$ | HOTEL | Built in the 18th century for French aristocracy and once serving as the American Legion Hall, this boutique hotel is a must-stay address for the dressed-in-black pack. Designed by Andrée Putman, Pershing Hall champions masculine minimalism, with muted surfaces of wood and stone. Rooms have stark white linens, tubelike hanging lamps, and tubs perched on round marble bases. Deluxe rooms and suites face the courtyard dining room, whose west wall is an outstanding six-story hanging garden with 300 varieties of plants by botanist Patrick Blanc. The lounge bar remains a popular meeting spot for tourists, locals, and suited business executives. It serves an excellent international menu and hosts DJ-driven music until 2 am. The full-service spa and prestigious location help justify the very expensive rates. Pros: prime shopping and nightlife district; excellent Sunday brunch buffet; free Wi-Fi throughout hotel. Cons: bar noise can be heard in some rooms; inconsistent service. | Rooms from: €500 | 49 rue Pierre Charron, 8e, Champs-Élysées | 01-58-36-58-00 | www.pershinghall.com | 20 rooms, 6 suites | No meals | Station: George V, Franklin-D.-Roosevelt.
Renaissance Paris Arc de Triomphe.
$$$$ | HOTEL | This American-style hotel catering to corporate executives is located in a predominantly business district between the Arc de Triomphe and Place des Ternes. A small, contemporary lobby leads to spacious rooms decorated in browns, beiges, and slate gray punctuated by touches of bright color. Floor-to-ceiling windows bring splashes of light and offer views of the city from the upper floors. All of the expected comforts and conveniences of a large chain hotel are included, such as 24-hour room service, generously sized bathrooms, and international cable channels. There’s a restaurant serving French and fusion cuisine, and the gym is well equipped. Pros: walking distance to métro; spacious rooms; good discounts with Marriott points. Cons: neighborhood lacks character; filled with business conferences; rather unfriendly service. | Rooms from: €440 | 39 av. de Wagram, 17e, Champs-Élysées | 01-55-37-55-37 | www.marriott.fr/hotels/travel/parwg-renaissance-paris-arc-de-triomphe-hotel | 118 rooms, 20 suites | No meals | Station: Ternes.
Villa Brunel.
$$$ | HOTEL | On a quiet corner, this small 19th-century building between the Arc de Triomphe and Porte Maillot is an exceptional deal if you don’t mind the less-than-convenient location. It’s near the Palais Congrès, making it convenient for many business travelers. Cheerful rooms have richly colored striped fabrics and dark wood trim. Ask for one on an upper floor with a view across the Rive Droite rooftops. There’s free Wi-Fi available throughout, but air-conditioning only on the top floor. Pros: suites good for families; quiet location; good RER/métro access. Cons: a bit off the beaten track; far from most attractions; small bathrooms. | Rooms from: €210 | 46 rue Brunel, 17e, Champs-Élysées | 01-45-74-74-51 | www.villabrunel.com | 32 rooms | No meals | Station: Porte Maillot, Argentine.
AROUND THE LOUVRE
LES HALLES
Hôtel Britannique.
$$$ | HOTEL | Open since 1861 and a stone’s throw from the Louvre, the romantic Britannique blends courteous English service with old-fashioned French elegance near the banks of the Seine. Take the winding staircase to well-maintained rooms done in a mix of attractive reproductions and antiques. Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs lend an air of modernity. Upgrade to the junior suite—the price is reasonable by Paris standards and offers more generous space and luxurious details like Annick Goutal bath amenities and bathrobes. A copious breakfast buffet includes fresh pastries and juices. Pros: on calm side street; less than a block from the métro/RER station; excellent service from friendly staff. Cons: small rooms; soundproofing could be better. | Rooms from: €236 | 20 av. Victoria, 1er, Les Halles | 01-42-33-74-59 | www.hotel-britannique.fr | 38 rooms, 1 suite | No meals | Station: Châtelet.
Hôtel du Cygne.
$$ | HOTEL | Passed down from mother to daughter, “the Swan” is decorated with homey touches like hand-sewn curtains, country quilts, and interesting flea-market finds. Bathrooms are marble; older ones have mosaic tiles. Book early for the larger rooms, which include Nos. 16, 26, 35, and 41. Ancient wood beams run the length of the two stairwells, which makes for uneven stepping that challenges even the most agile guests. A 24-hour security system means you must be buzzed in. Pros: small but comfortable rooms; central location on a pedestrian street; good value. Cons: old building with small rooms; no elevator; intimidating area after dark. | Rooms from: €125 | 3 rue du Cygne, 1er, Les Halles | 01-42-60-14-16 | www.hotelducygne.fr | 18 rooms | No meals | Station: Étienne Marcel, Les Halles.
Hôtel Tiquetonne.
$ | HOTEL | Just off the market street of Rue Montorgueil and a short walk from Les Halles, this is one of the least expensive hotels in the city center. The old-fashioned-but-vintage-cool rooms aren’t much to look at and possess few amenities, but they’re sparkling and some are spacious. Rooms going for less than €50 are available with just a sink (toilets are in each hall; a shower is available on the first floor). If you don’t mind the basics, the location is central, the service is reliably friendly, and the prices are a bargain. Pros: cheap rooms in the center of town; in trendy shopping and nightlife area; some views onto Sacré-Coeur. Cons: minimal service and no amenities; noise from the street; decor feels outdated. | Rooms from: €65 | 6 rue Tiquetonne, 2e, Les Halles | 01-42-36-94-58 | www.hoteltiquetonne.fr | 45 rooms, 33 with bath | No meals | Station: Étienne Marcel.
Paris Apartment Rentals
Many Fodorites rent apartments in Paris because they favor extra space plus that special feeling of living like a local. Rentals can also offer savings, especially for groups.
Check out the Paris Tourism Office website (www.parisinfo.com) for reputable agency listings. Policies differ, but you can expect a minimum required stay from three to seven days; a refundable deposit payable on arrival; possibly an agency fee; and maid and linen service. A great website with unbiased ratings of agencies and listing services is Paris Apartment Info (www.paris-apartment-info.com).
The following is a list of property hunters, good-value residence hotels, and apartment services: Cattalan Johnson (01-45-74-87-77 | www.cattalanjohnson.com) is an established French fee-based real estate agent highly specialized in rental properties for more than 25 years. The multilingual staff has a citywide inventory of furnished apartments available for one month to a few years. Citadines Résidences Hôtelières (08-25-33-33-32 | www.citadines.fr) is a chain of apartment-style hotel accommodations. They’re somewhat generic, but offer many services and good value for short stays. Home Rental (01-42-25-65-40 | www.home-rental.com) has been in business since 1992 and rents furnished studios to six bedrooms with a one-week minimum stay, short or long term. No agency fees, maid service, cable, and wireless Internet are included. Lodgis Paris (01-70-39-11-11 | www.lodgis.com) has one of the largest selections in Paris; however, the agency fee makes it cheaper per diem to rent for more than one week. Paris Attitude (01-42-96-31-46 | www.parisattitude.com) offers a large selection of furnished rentals of studios to five bedrooms from a week to a year. Paris Vacation Apartments (06-63-60-67-14 | www.parisvacationapartments.com) specializes in luxury rentals, with all-inclusive prices by the week. Paris-Hospitality (01-47-83-75-91 | www.parisattitude.com) lists 350 apartments in prime locations throughout Paris for short- or long-term visits. Concierge services are available. Rentals in Paris (516/874-0474 | www.rentals-in-paris.com) has twodozen centrally located rentals with all-inclusive weekly rates and last-minute special offers.
LOUVRE/TUILERIES
Hôtel Brighton.
$$$$ | HOTEL | A few of the city’s most prestigious hotels face the Tuileries or Place de la Concorde, but the 19th-century Brighton occupies the same prime real estate and offers a privileged stay for a fraction of the price. The entry is modest compared to grande dames down the road, but don’t let the geometric carpeting and modern furniture fool you. Rooms exude a classic elegance, blending antiques with comfortable square footage. While many are handsomely decorated with gray woolen throws and oversize royal-blue pillows, others (like No. 407) offer quintessential Parisian charm with pretty floral patterns and a marble fireplace. The smallest rooms overlook the courtyard; larger ones have a magnificent view of the gardens. Nearly all have flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and heated towel racks in spacious bathrooms. Relax in the first-floor bar and lounge surrounded by marble columns, mirrored walls, and contemporary furnishings—try the hautepatisserie by renowned French chef Philippe Conticini featured on the salon du thé menu. Pros: convenient central location; friendly service; breakfast buffet (free for kids under 12). Cons: some areas in need of repair; variable quality in decor between rooms; no restaurant for lunch or dinner. | Rooms from: €290 | 218 rue de Rivoli, 1er, Louvre/Tuileries | 01-47-03-61-61 | www.paris-hotel-brighton.com | 61 rooms | No meals | Station: Tuileries.
Hôtel Crayon.
$$$ | HOTEL | Managed by artists, this hotel near the Louvre and Palais-Royal distinguishes itself with an eclectic pop-art decor—expect an unusual canvas of local and international guests that’s just as colorful. Look for the oversize pencil against hand-painted graffiti walls and curious mix of modern objets d’art. Rooms are quiet havens in a somewhat overwhelming palette of bold purples, reds, and blue. Expect walk-in showers, designer toiletries, adjustable beds, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi, but not overly spacious bathrooms or closets. The suite has a freestanding claw-foot bathtub. Offering an honesty bar, the lobby-lounge has shelves of books to read or exchange. Pros: bright decor; very friendly staff; central location. Cons: small bathrooms; basement breakfast area; lobby lounge lacks any coziness and warmth. | Rooms from: €225 | 25 rue du Bouloi, 1er, Louvre/Tuileries | 01-42-36-54-19 | www.hotelcrayon.com | 26 rooms | No meals | Station: Louvre.
Fodor’s Choice | Hôtel du Continent.
$$ | HOTEL | You’d be hard-pressed to find a budget hotel this stylish anywhere in Paris, let alone in an upscale neighborhood close to many of the top attractions. Pros: superfriendly staff; all modern amenities; location, location, location. Cons: no lobby; tiny bathrooms. | Rooms from: €135 | 30 rue du Mont-Thabor, 1e, Louvre/Tuileries | 01-42-60-75-32 | www.hotelcontinent.com | 25 rooms | No meals | Station: Concord, Tuileries.
Hôtel Le Pradey.
$$$$ | HOTEL | Offering Michel Cluizel chocolates and Roger & Gallet toiletries, this compact boutique hotel near the Tuileries has a luxe feel. It pays homage to Parisian style with rooms split between traditional chambres and Paris-themed suites such as Louvre and Grand Palais. The more exclusive Suites Confidentielles are designed by Hermès and share a long terrace. Lingerie designer Chantal Thomass decorated the magnificently whimsical Cabaret suite in tribute to the Moulin Rouge, while the Opéra suite brings out every girl’s inner ballerina. The lobby mezzanine is a comfy place to enjoy a drink at the honesty bar and peruse the art-book collection. Pros: choice of copious breakfast buffet or quick coffee and croissant; designer touches throughout; double doors for soundproofing in suites. Cons: smaller rooms lack closet space; rooms vary greatly in style; nondescript entry and lackluster service results in lukewarm welcome. | Rooms from: €390 | 5 rue St-Roch, 1e, Louvre/Tuileries | 01-42-60-31-70 | www.lepradey.com | 21 rooms, 7 suites | No meals | Station: Tuileries.
Hôtel Londres St-Honoré.
$$ | HOTEL | Smack-dab in the center of Paris, this no-frills hotel across from a 17th-century church gets points for its location—shops, restaurants, and points of interest are literally steps away. Exposed oak beams, statues in niches, and rustic stone walls give the place an old-fashioned air. Rooms have floral cotton bedspreads and simple wooden furniture, though the bright bathrooms have more modern amenities like hair dryers. Elevator service begins on the second floor, so some stairs are guaranteed. The neighboring building is undergoing renovations, which could affect your stay. Pros: within walking distance of major sites; friendly service; free Wi-Fi. Cons: small beds with worn decor; tiny elevator doesn’t go to ground floor; extremely narrow staircase. | Rooms from: €149 | 13 rue St-Roch, 1er, Louvre/Tuileries | 01-42-60-15-62 | www.hotellondressthonore-paris.com | 24 rooms, 4 suites | No meals | Station: Pyramides.
Hôtel Louvre Sainte-Anne.
$$ | HOTEL | Walk to many major sites from this small, low-key property located between the Opéra and the Louvre. Bright pastel rooms are decorated in a country theme and have little extras like heated towel racks and feather duvets. Pay a little extra for a spacious triple on the top floor—it has a small terrace and views of Sacré-Coeur. A hot-and-cold breakfast buffet is served in a stone-vaulted cellar. The exceptionally friendly staff can recommend plenty of noteworthy restaurants nearby. Pros: convenient location; free Wi-Fi; helpful reception. Cons: very small rooms and dull decor; district can feel very un-Parisian; subterranean breakfast area slightly claustrophobic. | Rooms from: €175 | 32 rue Ste-Anne, 1er, Louvre/Tuileries | 01-40-20-02-35 | www.paris-hotel-louvre.com | 20 rooms | No meals | Station:Pyramides.
Fodor’s Choice | Hôtel Meurice.
$$$$ | HOTEL | Since 1835, the Meurice has welcomed royalty and celebrities from the Duchess of Windsor to Salvador Dalí—who both resided in the grande-dame establishment—and Paris’s first palace hotel continues to please with service, style, and views. Le Meurice also appeals to art-history aficionados: contemporary sculpture, antique furnishings, and attractive murals are spread around the rooms, corridors, and sumptuous dining areas. French designer Philippe Starck contributed to the exquisitely creative decor in the lobby, lounge, restaurant, and spa. Classic rooms have a gilded Napoleonic Empire style, with antique furnishings covered in elegant French and Italian brocades. The massive Belle Etoile Suite has an extraordinary 360-degree panorama and huge outdoor terrace. Bathrooms are equally luxurious with marble detailing, designer toiletries, and deep tubs. The modern spa includes Swiss Valmont facials, Thermes Marins de St-Malo body treatments, and “By Terry” makeovers. If traveling with kids, expect children to be pampered with their own Meurice teddy bear called Pistache, tot-size slippers and bathrobe, and sweet treats. There’s even a premium pet service that provides a VIP welcome for furry family members. The three-star Michelin restaurant run by famed executive chef Yannick Alléno serves gastronomic menus in one of the most beautiful grand siècle settings in the city. Tea time in the central Dali restaurant is a marvelous treat. Pros: stunning art and architecture; views over the Tuileries gardens; central location convenient to métro and major sites. Cons: popularity makes the public areas not very discreet; inconsistent front-desk service at times unattentive. | Rooms from: €1295 | 228 rue de Rivoli, 1er, Louvre/Tuileries | 01-44-58-10-09 | www.dorchestercollection.com | 154 rooms, 54 suites | No meals | Station: Tuileries, Concorde.
Hôtel Thérèse.
$$$ | HOTEL | Tucked away from the traffic and crowds of Avenue de l’Opéra, Hotel Thérèse, named after the wife of Louis XIV, is a stone’s throw from regal sites like the Louvre, Palais Royal, and the historic Comédie Française theater. The five-floor hotel offers plenty of old-world charm with its low ceilings and wrought-iron details; ambient lighting, contemporary furnishings, and amenities like flat-screen TVs, minibars, and personal safes bring things up-to-date. The retro-chic design is noticeable when entering the elegant lobby, where you can sip an apéritif at the bar-lounge, browse the hotel’s selection of custom-scented candles, or chat with the young, friendly staff. Walk around the quarter—you’ll notice the congregation of Japanese restaurants, proximity to shops, and easyaccess to major tourist sites. Pros: excellent location on quiet street; free Wi-Fi; breakfast can be served in room. Cons: rooms are relatively small for price; breakfast area located in basement; no restaurant or gym. | Rooms from: €200 | 5/7 rue Thérèse, 1er, Louvre/Tuileries | 01-42-96-10-01 | www.hoteltherese.com | 40 rooms | No meals | Station: Pyramides.
Hotel Konfidentiel.
$$$$ | HOTEL | Sleep beneath the preguillotined head of Marie-Antoinette or amid the turmoil of the French Revolution in one of the six individually themed rooms. Despite the exclusive VIP tendencies, the hotel keeps a family-run vibe with a good balance of discretion and friendliness. Rooms are meticulously decked out with iPod ports, hidden air-conditioning, and custom furniture. The top-floor Eiffel Tower duplex has its own little balcony overlooking the rooftops. The hidden restaurant in the 15th-century cave serves elegant French cuisine; it’s a superb deal, especially for lunch. Just steps from Rue St-Honoré, the hotel is within a quick walk of major areas of interest and métro lines. Pros: next to the Louvre; comfortable rooms; good restaurant. Cons: can feel a bit enclosed; showers only in bathrooms; unreliable Wi-Fi. | Rooms from: €379 | 64 rue de l’Arbre Sec, 1er, Louvre/Tuileries | 01-55-34-40-40 | www.konfidentiel-paris.com | 5 rooms, 1 suite | No meals | Station: Louvre Rivoli.
Mandarin Oriental Paris.
$$$$ | HOTEL | Of Paris’s palace hotels—the highest designation—the Mandarin Oriental is among the most contemporary, with a soaring marble entryway designed by superstar architect Jean-Michel Wilmotte and a sleek, luxe style that makes a welcome contrast to the historic grande dames. Pros: impressive pool; many rooms with terraces; child-friendly, with babysitting services. Cons: not much variation in standard rooms; noise from courtyard during special events. | Rooms from: €895 | 251 rue de St-Honore, 1e, Around the Louvre | 01-70-98-78-88 | www.mandarinoriental/paris | 99 rooms, 39 suites | No meals | No credit cards | Station: Tuileries, Concorde.
Meliá Vendôme.
$$$$ | HOTEL | In a prestigious quarter a few minutes from the Jardin des Tuileries, Place de la Concorde, Opéra Garnier, and the Louvre, the Meliá Vendôme has handsome and spacious rooms in attractive contemporary tones that exude an understated elegance. Free Wi-Fi, minibars, and satellite TVs are some of the premium perks offered at reasonable rates. Consistent service and an airport shuttle available on request make this Spanish-owned franchise a popular base for international travelers. Pros: oustanding location in the city center; near world-class shopping; elegant, immaculate rooms. Cons: expensive breakfast; no spa or pool; in-room cooling system unreliable. | Rooms from: €350 | 8 rue Cambon, 1e, Louvre/Tuileries | 01-44-77-54-00 | www.melia.com/en/hotels/france/paris/melia-vendome-boutique-hotel/index.html | 78 rooms, 5 suites | No meals | Station: Concorde, Madeleine.
Renaissance Paris Vendôme.
$$$$ | HOTEL | Hiding behind a classic 19th-century facade is a fresh, contemporary hotel with subtle 1930s influences. Under a huge atrium skylight, the lobby’s polished black-marble floors, hardwood furnishings, and urban-chic furnishings set the mood. The small library has a wood-burning fireplace, and the intimate Bar Chinois is decorated with elaborate Chinese wallpaper. Imported woods and black slate accent the hotel’s sauna, steam room, and countercurrent swimming pool. Rooms have modern amenities like flat-screen TVs and free high-speed Internet. The marble bathrooms feature Bulgari toiletries and heated towel racks. Contemporary French and Basque-style cuisine is served in the hotel’s Pinxo Restaurant. Pros: posh location; trendy restaurant; full-service spa and fitness room. Cons: lacks authentic French character; public lounges noisy at times; packed with business groups. | Rooms from: €620 | 4 rue du Mont Thabor, 1er, Louvre/Tuileries | 01-40-20-20-00 | www.marriott.com | 82 rooms, 15 suites | No meals | Station: Tuileries.
Ritz.
$$$$ | HOTEL | In novels, songs, and the common parlance, there’s not a word that evokes the romance and luxury of Paris better than the Ritz; it’s expected to reopen after a major renovation in late 2015. Since its opening in 1898 the storied hotel has attracted tout Paris—the personalities synonymous with the city that burnished the hotel’s prestige with their glamour and mystique—Marcel Proust, Coco Chanel, Ernest Hemingway. In 2012 the Ritz closed its doors for the first time since opening to launch a total, top-to-toe renovation that will include a new bar, a state-of-the-art spa, a retractable roof over the garden, and a sumptuous redecoration of each of the hotel’s 143 rooms. Pros: spacious swimming pool; superlative selection of bars and restaurants; top-notch service. Cons: easy to get lost in the vast hotel; paparazzi magnet; astronomical prices. | Rooms from: €1000 | 15 pl. Vendôme, 1er, Louvre/Tuileries | 01-43-16-30-30 | www.ritzparis.com | 71 rooms, 72 suites | No meals | Station: Opéra.
OPÉRA/GRANDS BOULEVARDS
Hôtel Banke.
$$$$ | HOTEL | In a stately bank building dating from the early 20th century, this interesting hotel lies in the heart of the Opéra district, which is full of shops and theaters. The imposing domed lobby hosts an eclectic restaurant and tapas bar on either side, while the rooms are more elegant and tasteful. Each one has parquet floors, custom furniture, leather-weave headboards, and marble or green mosaic tiles in the bathrooms. Opt for the courtyard-facing rooms for less street noise. The Spanish-owned hotel doubles as a museum, with the owner’s jewelry collection on display on each floor. Pros: great location; excellent service; free Internet access. Cons: pricey restaurant; cramped gym; several blocks from the nearest métro. | Rooms from: €280 | 20 rue LaFayette, 9e, Opéra/Grands Boulevards | 01-55-33-22-25 | www.hotelbanke.com | 78 rooms, 15 suites | No meals | Station: Opéra.
Hôtel Chopin.
$ | HOTEL | A unique mainstay of the district, the Chopin recalls its 1846 birth date with a creaky-floored lobby and aged woodwork. Basic but comfortable rooms overlook the atmospheric Passage Jouffroy’s quaint toy shops and bookstores. Top-floor rooms gaze out over the rooftops of Paris, but none face the busy streets. The best rooms end in “7” (No. 407 has a view of the Grévin Wax Museum’s ateliers), whereas those ending in “2” tend to be darkest and smallest (but also the cheapest). Pros: special location; close to major métro station; great nightlife district. Cons: thin walls; single rooms are very small; few amenities. | Rooms from: €106 | 10 bd. Montmartre, 46 passage Jouffroy, 9e, Opéra/Grands Boulevards | 01-47-70-58-10 | www.hotelchopin.fr | 36 rooms | No meals | Station: Grands Boulevards.
Hôtel de Noailles.
$$$$ | HOTEL | With a nod to the work of postmodern designers like Putman and Starck, this stylish boutique hotel is both contemporary and cozy. Rooms are sleek and streamlined, with backlit custom cabinets, glassed-in bathrooms, and fabric or faux-leather wall coverings. A spacious outdoor terrace is off the breakfast room. Head to the bar area and lobby lounge for a predinner aperitif. A small fitness room and sauna also woo guests. Although it’s accessible to major monuments and museums, the hotel attracts mostly business travelers. Pros: 15- to 20-minute walk to the Louvre and Opéra; a block from the airport bus; free Wi-Fi. Cons: no interesting views; some bathrooms in need of renovation; small elevator. | Rooms from: €345 | 9 rue de la Michodière, 2e, Opéra/Grands Boulevards | 01-47-42-92-90 | www.hoteldenoailles.com | 56 rooms | No meals | Station: Opéra.
Fodor’s Choice | Hotel du Temps.
$$ | HOTEL | This stylish new hotel is perfect for visitors looking for bargain lodgings in a crossroads neighborhood ripe for exploration. Pros: friendly service; close to métros; terrific neighborhood. Cons: tiny bathrooms; rooms facing Rue La Fayette can be noisy. | Rooms from: €160 | 11 rue de Montholon, 9e, Grands Boulevards | 01-47-70-37-16 | hotel-du-temps.fr | 23 rooms | No meals | Station: Cadet, Poissonière.
Hôtel George Sand.
$$$ | HOTEL | This family-run hotel, where the 19th-century writer George Sand once lived, feels fresh and modern while preserving some of its original architectural details. Handsome rooms have up-to-date amenities like coffeemakers, minibars, satellite TVs, and complimentary high-speed Internet access. Bathrooms are decked out in yacht-inspired wood flooring. Pros: near two famous department stores; historic atmosphere; simple but comfortable rooms. Cons: noisy street; can hear métro rumble on lower floors; some rooms are quite small. | Rooms from: €250 | 26 rue des Mathurins, 9e, Opéra/Grands Boulevards | 01-47-42-63-47 | www.hotelgeorgesand.com | 20 rooms | No meals | Station: Havre Caumartin.
Hôtel Gramont Opéra.
$$$ | HOTEL | Near the Opéra Garnier and some of the city’s best department stores, this family-owned boutique hotel has lots of little extras that make it a great value. In addition to complimentary Wi-Fi access, you are free to use the computer in the lobby lounge or help yourself to beverages and light snacks. The decor is contemporary with classic touches like exposed wood beams and colorful wallpaper. Rooms have open closets and only showers (no tubs) in the bathroom to save space. Book a mini-suite or the duplex with terrace if you need more room to spread out. Pros: good breakfast buffet with eggs to order; personalized and professional service; connecting rooms for families. Cons: singles have no desk; small bathrooms; elevator doesn’t go to top floor rooms. | Rooms from: €239 | 22 rue Gramont, 2e, Grands Boulevards | 01-42-96-85-90 | www.hotel-gramont-opera.com | 25 rooms | No meals | Station: Quatre-Septembre.
Hôtel Langlois.
$$$ | HOTEL | This darling hotel gained a reputation as one of the most atmospheric budget sleeps in the city. Rates have crept up, but the 19th-century bank building retains its beautiful wood-paneled reception area and a period look between Art Deco and Art Nouveau. The spacious and individually decorated rooms are decked out with glazed-tile fireplaces and antique artworks that make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Some rooms, such as Nos. 15, 21, and 41, have enormous retro bathrooms. Breakfast can be served in your room at no extra cost. Pros: excellent views from the top floor; close to department stores and Opéra Garnier; historic decor. Cons: noisy street; off the beaten path; some sagging furniture and worn fabrics. | Rooms from: €185 | 63 rue St-Lazare, 9e, Opéra/Grands Boulevards | 01-48-74-78-24 | www.hotel-langlois.com | 24 rooms, 3 suites | No meals | Station: Trinité.
Hôtel Queen Mary.
$$$ | HOTEL | Although showing its age, this cozy hotel is well situated near high-end shopping and the city’s famous department stores. Rooms are decorated with traditional fabrics, outfitted with large beds and trouser presses, and stocked with Roger & Gallet toiletries. You can mingle in the bar during happy hour and, in good weather, enjoy breakfast in the courtyard. Pros: close to Place de la Madeleine; extra-attentive service; pretty garden. Cons: some rooms are claustrophobic; those on the ground floor and facing the street can be noisy; decor can feel somewhat old-fashioned. | Rooms from: €219 | 9 rue Greffulhe, 8e, Opéra/Grands Boulevards | 01-42-66-40-50 | www.hotelqueenmary.com | 33 rooms, 2 suites | No meals | Station: Madeleine, St-Lazare, Havre Caumartin.
Hôtel Westminster.
$$$$ | HOTEL | On one of the most prestigious streets in Paris, between the Opéra and Place Vendôme, this mid-19th-century inn happily retains its old-world feel. Spacious rooms are decorated with period furniture, marble fireplaces, crystal chandeliers, and oil paintings. Duke’s piano bar is a pleasant rendezvous spot, and the hotel’s gourmet restaurant, Le Céladon, serves decent French cuisine. The fitness center has a Moorish-inspired steam room and views over Paris’s rooftops. The service and appointments aren’t what you’d get at the neighboring grande-dame hotels, but you do share a prime piece of real estate. Pros: prestigious location near major sights; soothing steam room; popular jazz bar. Cons: a bit old-fashioned; some rooms overlook an air shaft; poor bathroom plumbing. | Rooms from: €297 | 13 rue de la Paix, 2e, Opéra/Grands Boulevards | 01-42-61-57-46 | www.warwickhotels.com/westminster | 80 rooms, 22 suites | No meals | Station: Opéra.
La Maison Favart.
$$$$ | HOTEL | An atmospheric indoor pool, relaxing sauna, and around-the-clock concierge are some of the reasons this jewel-box hotel is fast becoming a popular choice for travelers. Add 18th-century charm, reasonable rates, good service, and beautifully decorated rooms, and it’s no wonder why this hotel, named after the founders of the Comic Opera, pleases those who demand discreet elegance and creature comforts. Look for iPod docking stations, refined fabrics, and furnishings that are a modern interpretation of traditional style. Pros: lovely rooms and interior design; spacious bathrooms; central location within walking distance of the sights. Cons: high demand for best rooms; impractical use of space in some rooms and bathrooms; no spa. | Rooms from: €340 | 5 rue de Marivaux, 2e, Grands Boulevards | 01-42-97-59-83 | www.lamaisonfavart.com | 39 rooms | No meals | Station: Quatre Septembre.
Fodor’s Choice | Park Hyatt Paris Vendôme.
$$$$ | HOTEL | Understated luxury with a contemporary Zen vibe differentiates this Hyatt from its more classic neighbors between Place Vendôme and Opéra Garnier. Five Haussmann-era office buildings have been converted into a showcase for polished beige limestone, mahogany-veneer surfaces, and bronze sculptures. The minimalist vibe in the rooms extends to the Japanese-inspired baths, underfloor heating, and spacious dressing areas. Spa treatments feature French Carita products, and the entire hotel has Wi-Fi access. Head to the Pur, with its open kitchen within view of the dining room rotunda. Enjoy afternoon tea in La Cheminée or after-hours cocktails in artsy Le Bar. Pros: stylish urban-chic design; the latest technology; only in-suite spas in Paris. Cons: as part of the Hyatt chain, it can feel anonymous; many corporate events held here; very expensive rates. | Rooms from: €850 | 3-5 rue de la Paix, 2e, Opéra/Grands Boulevards | 01-58-71-12-34 | www.paris.vendome.hyatt.com | 124 rooms, 24 suites | No meals | Station:Concorde, Opéra.
Fodor’s Choice | W Paris-Opéra.
$$$$ | HOTEL | Located near Opéra Garnier, this 91-room hotel—the first W in France—feels part Moulin Rouge, part art gallery, with cheeky and irreverent touches strewn throughout. Past the historic facade, guestrooms blend old and new Paris style, with Louis XV-style chairs upholstered in mismatched fabrics, accent pillows designed as a nod to Marie-Antoinette and other French figures, and modern-style toile duvets by London-based graphic artist Emily Forgot, who also created the quirky silhouette-like illustrations in the lobby and around-the-clock fitness room filled with fashionistas. The lively lounge has designer cocktails and DJs, and the on-site restaurant serves Catalan-meets-French fare created by famed Spanish chef Sergi Arola. Resident “insider concierge” Cecile knows just about every secret spot in town. Pros: coveted location in historic 19th-century building; excellent restaurant; cutting-edge rooms with comfortable beds. Cons: fee for Wi-Fi; rooms and public spaces feel claustrophobic; noisy neighborhood. | Rooms from: €450 | 4 rue Meyerbeer, 9e, Opéra/Grands Boulevards | 01-77-48-94-94 | www.wparisopera.com | 72 rooms, 19 suites | No meals | Station: Chaussée d’Antin-La Fayette.
MONTMARTRE
Ermitage Hôtel Sacré Coeur.
$ | HOTEL | It’s definitely a hike from the nearest métro station, but this family-run hotel in a Napoléon III-era building has a friendly vibe and is filled with mirrored armoires, elegant chandeliers, and other antiques. There’s a private terrace for the two ground-level rooms, and all accommodations have old-fashioned flowery decor. The building is only two stories, and the highest-tech item here is the fax machine. Pros: charming neighborhood; quiet district; warm welcome from staff. Cons: no credit cards accepted; no facilities. | Rooms from: €120 | 24 rue Lamarck, 18e, Montmartre | 01-42-64-79-22 | www.ermitagesacrecoeur.fr | 5 rooms | Breakfast | Station: Lamarck Caulaincourt.
Hôtel Eldorado.
$ | HOTEL | The unpretentious Hôtel Eldorado, just west of Montmartre, is perfect for those who are happy lying low without room phones, satellite TVs, or an elevator. Each room has its own shabby-chic charms—think leopard spots and zebra stripes, knickknacks from Africa and the Far East, and interesting flea-market finds. Many rooms face the courtyard, where bohemian types from the hotel’s wine bistro hang out on summer nights. Rooms 16 and 17 have their own little balconies. Ask for a room in the back building for a quiet night’s sleep. Pros: eclectic character; artsy clientele; free Wi-Fi. Cons: far from the city center; few amenities; courtyard can be noisy in summer. | Rooms from: €90 | 18 rue des Dames, 17e, Montmartre | 01-45-22-35-21 | www.eldoradohotel.fr | 33 rooms, 23 with bath | No meals | Station:Place de Clichy.
Hôtel Regyn’s Montmartre.
$$ | HOTEL | Many travelers book a room in the tiny Hôtel Regyn’s Montmartre for its proximity to the Place des Abbesses, one of the most well-known spots in the city thanks to the movie Amélie. They’re also pleased to find bright, warm colors, and rooms with simple bathrooms, hair dryers, and radios. Ask for one of the two top floors for great views of either the Eiffel Tower or Sacré-Coeur. Overall, courteous service and a relaxed, humble charm make this an attractive low-budget choice. Pros: métro station right outside; great views over Paris; atmospheric locale. Cons: no air-conditioning; some street noise; carpets and bathrooms need upgrades. | Rooms from: €125 | 18 pl. des Abbesses, 18e, Montmartre | 01-42-54-45-21 | www.hotel-regyns-paris.com | 22 rooms | No meals | Station: Abbesses.
THE MARAIS
Hôtel Bourg Tibourg.
$$$$ | HOTEL | Scented candles and subdued lighting announce the blend of romance and contemplation designer-du-jour Jacques Garcia brought to the Hôtel Bourg Tibourg. A pocket garden has room for three tables, leafy plants, and a swath of stars above. Rooms are barely bigger than the beds, and every inch has been upholstered, tasseled, and draped in a cacophony of stripes, florals, and medieval motifs. Free Wi-Fi, loaner iPads, and flat-screen TVs are among the creature comforts. Royal-blue walls and red velvet line the claustrophobic halls, and Byzantine alcoves hold mosaic-tile tubs. Pros: in the heart of the trendy Marais; moderate prices; great nightlife district. Cons: rooms tend to be small and poorly lit; no hotel restaurant; lounge area gets crowded. | Rooms from: €290 | 19 rue du Bourg Tibourg, 4e, Marais | 01-42-78-47-39 | bourgtibourg.com | 29 rooms, 1 suite | No meals | Station: Hôtel de Ville.
Hôtel Caron.
$$$ | HOTEL | On a relatively quiet side street, this contemporary boutique bed-and-breakfast may be petite, but many thoughtful extras make it as accommodating as bigger hotels. Flat-screen TVs, Wi-Fi access, and all of the nonalcoholic beverages in the minibar are included. L’Occitane toiletries are a nice touch in the bathrooms. A €14 breakfast buffet is served in the historic vaulted wine cellar (or in your room, if you want). Soundproof windows help keep out the noise from the nearby bars and cafés. Expect a cozy experience with easy access to Place des Vosges, Musée Picasso, Bastille, and public transportation. Don’t confuse this place with the more traditional Hotel Caron de Beaumarchais, also in the Marais. Pros: excellent location in center of Paris; friendly staff; great amenities. Cons: only enough room for small suitcases; no hotel restaurant or bar; tight space in bathrooms. | Rooms from: €249 | 3 rue Caron, 4e, Marais | 01-40-29-02-94 | www.hotelcaron.com | 18 rooms | No meals | Car park: Saint-Antoine | Station: St-Paul.
Hôtel Caron de Beaumarchais.
$$ | HOTEL | For that traditional French feeling, book a room at this intimate, affordable, romantic hotel—the theme is the work of former next-door-neighbor Pierre-Augustin Caron de Beaumarchais, a supplier of military aid to American revolutionaries and the playwright who penned The Marriage of Figaro and The Barber of Seville. The pretty lobby reflects the taste of 18th-century French nobility—down to the floral wallpaper and 1792 pianoforte. Richly decorated with provincial fabrics and antique period furnishings, the rooms have original beams and hand-painted bathroom tiles, updated with flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi access. Request the larger rooms in the front if you prefer more space to quiet; the smaller rooms overlook a courtyard, while tiny top-floor units compensate with a good view across Rive Droite. Catering to modern times, the historic locale is handicapped-accessible and pet-friendly. Pros: cozy Parisian decor of yesteryear; breakfast in bed served until noon; excellent location within easy walking distance of major monuments. Cons: small rooms with few amenities; busy street of bars and cafés can be noisy; may feel old-fashioned for younger crowd. | Rooms from: €170 | 12 rue Vieille-du-Temple, 4e,Marais | 01-42-72-34-12 | www.carondebeaumarchais.com | 19 rooms | No meals | Station: Hôtel de Ville.
Hôtel de la Bretonnerie.
$$$ | HOTEL | In a 17th-century hôtel particulier (town house) on a side street in the Marais, this small hotel with exposed wooden beams and traditional styling sits a few minutes from the Centre Pompidou and the numerous bars and cafés of Rue Vieille du Temple. Choose either chambres classiques or chambres de charme; the latter are more spacious (and pricier), with more elaborate furnishings like Louis XIII-style four-poster canopy beds and marble bathtubs. Book a junior suite for the most space—the duplexes with separate sleeping and dining areas resemble little apartments. Ask for rooms facing interior courtyard for a quieter sleep. Overall, the establishment is impeccably kept by a welcoming staff. A classic French breakfast is served in the vaulted cellar. Pros: typical Parisian character; moderate prices; free Wi-Fi access. Cons: quality and size of the rooms vary greatly; no air-conditioning; rooms facing street can be noisy. | Rooms from: €185 | 22 rue Ste-Croix-de-la-Bretonnerie, 4e, Marais | 01-48-87-77-63 | www.hotelparismaraisbretonnerie.com | 22 rooms, 7 suites | No meals | Station: Hôtel de Ville.
Hôtel de la Place des Vosges.
$$ | HOTEL | Despite a Lilliputian elevator that doesn’t serve all floors, this small, simple hotel just off 17th-century Place des Vosges draws a loyal clientele. The Louis XIII-style reception area evokes the Old Marais with oak-beam ceilings, rough-hewn stone, and a mix of rustic finds from secondhand shops. Many of the standard rooms still have their original beams and stone walls, as well as modern, if tiny, tiled bathroom. Accessible by a narrow staircase, the lone top-floor room, the hotel’s largest, has a whirlpool tub and a limited view over the rooftops. Other rooms are considerably smaller but cheaper. Fans are provided in summer, and Internet access is available, but not reliable. Pros: excellent location near famous sights and public transportation; traditional ambience; reasonable rates. Cons: no air-conditioning; most rooms are very small; street-facing rooms can be noisy. | Rooms from: €150 | 12 rue de Birague, 4e, Marais | 01-42-72-60-46 | www.hotelplacedesvosges.com | 16 rooms | No meals | Station: Bastille.
Hôtel Duo.
$$$$ | HOTEL | For this hotel in the heart of the trendy Marais district, architect Jean Philippe Nuel was commissioned to bring things up-to-date with bold colors and dramatic lighting; some rooms still have the original 16th-century beams, but the overall feel is casual urban chic. Ask for an upper-floor room to avoid street noise. Amenities include a small fitness area, relaxing sauna, and stylish bar-lounge and breakfast room that fits in perfectly with the hip vibe of the Marais. Pros: central location near shops and cafés; walking distance to major monuments; good amenities. Cons: noisy neighborhood; service not always delivered with a smile; small standard rooms and bathrooms. | Rooms from: €290 | 11 rue du Temple, 4e, Marais | 01-42-72-72-22 | www.duoparis.com | 58 rooms | No meals | Station: Hôtel de Ville.
Hôtel Jeanne-d’Arc.
$$ | HOTEL | This hotel is prized for its unbeatable location off tranquil Place du Marché Ste-Catherine, one of the city’s lesser-known pedestrian squares. The 17th-century building has been a simple hotel for more than a century, with well-maintained rooms, tiled bathrooms, and cheery, if somewhat mismatched, colors (some rooms facing the back are more muted). Expect basic accommodations and simple breakfasts. For more quiet, request an upper floor. The welcoming staff is informal and happy to recount the history of this former market quartier. Pros: charming street close to major attractions; good value for the Marais; lots of drinking and dining options nearby. Cons: noisy garbage trucks and late-night revelers on the square after midnight; dreary decor; no air-conditioning. | Rooms from: €120 | 3 rue de Jarente, 4e, Marais | 01-48-87-62-11 | www.hoteljeannedarc.com | 35 rooms | No meals | Station: St-Paul.
Fodor’s Choice | Hôtel Jules & Jim.
$$$ | HOTEL | In the less-traveled corner of the trendy Marais district, this contemporary boutique hotel feels almost like an art gallery. Behind its easy-to-miss industrial facade are three buildings around a historic courtyard. The futuristic “Hi-Mac” rooms are encased in a sort of white plastic cocoon and have adjustable lighting and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the rooftops of Paris; Room 81 has a terrace with views of Sacré-Coeur Basilica. The compact rooms are generally minimalist, with sleek dark-wood furnishings, polished concrete bathrooms with Molton Brown toiletries, and spacious walk-in showers with oversize “rainwater” showerheads. Open for breakfast, the stylish bar in the building at the back of the courtyard attracts fashionable locals in the evening. Pros: bright and modern; stylish design; close to public transportation. Cons: the small “Jules” rooms are best for those traveling light or staying just one night; no restaurant. | Rooms from: €210 | 11 rue des Gravilliers, 3e, Marais | 01-42-78-10-01 | www.hoteljulesetjim.com | 22 rooms, 1 duplex | No meals | Station: Arts et Métiers.
Pavillon de la Reine.
$$$$ | HOTEL | Hidden off regal Place des Vosges behind a stunning garden courtyard, this enchanting château has gigantic beams, chunky stone pillars, and a weathered fireplace that speaks to its 1612 origins. The hotel has large rooms and suites decorated in either contemporary or 18th-century style. Many look out on the entry court or an interior Japanese-inspired garden. Designer toiletries by Molton Brown, plush bathrobes, and modern bathrooms add to the luxurious feel. Stay connected with wireless Internet. Pros: historic character; quiet setting; soothing spa treatments. Cons: expensive for the area and the size of the rooms; the nearest métro is a few blocks away; no uniform theme in interior design. | Rooms from: €440 | 28 pl. des Vosges, 3e, Marais | 01-40-29-19-19 | www.pavillon-de-la-reine.com | 31 rooms, 23 suites | No meals | Station: Bastille, St-Paul.
EASTERN PARIS
BASTILLE
Hôtel Bastille de Launay.
$$$ | HOTEL | The no-frills decor might seem spartan at first, but this boutique hotel also offers some creature comforts, modern amenities like free Wi-Fi, and a perfect location a few blocks from the regal Place des Vosges. Cozy rooms are calm and quiet and have the high-quality mattresses more often found in a four-star hotel. Rooms 7 and 8 at the back of the courtyard occupy a smaller building that feels like a bed-and-breakfast in the countryside. Ask about king-size beds if you want to splurge. Pros: homey proportions; attentive service; reasonably spacious for the neighborhood. Cons: tiny elevator; some rooms small; basic bathrooms. | Rooms from: €180 | 42 rue Amelot, 11e, Bastille | 01-47-00-88-11 | www.bastilledelaunay-hotel-paris.com | 36 rooms | No meals | Station: Chemin Vert.
Fodor’s Choice | Hôtel Mama Shelter.
$$ | HOTEL | Close to Père Lachaise in the up-and-coming 20th arrondissement, this large hotel has a fun and funky interior designed by Philippe Starck. Rooms are stylishly lighted, include their own kitchenettes, are stocked with Kiehl’s toiletries, and boast flat-screen TVs and Wi-Fi access. Many also have huge balconies. Want to splurge? A 375-square-foot suite features its own terrace, a 27-inch computer, and a 54-inch LED TV. Don’t expect an ounce of classical Parisian charm—the hotel is an experiment in quirky postmodern countercultural cool. The spacious restaurant-bar-lounge attracts an international mix of hip young people, who then head to the popular Fleche d’Or nightclub across the street. Pros: trendy design without designer prices; cool vibe; entertainment center in each room. Cons: 10-minute walk to métro; nearby club can be noisy. | Rooms from: €159 | 109 rue de Bagnolet, 20e, Bastille | 01-43-48-48-48 | www.mamashelter.com | 172 rooms | No meals | Station: Gambetta.
Les Jardins du Marais.
$$$$ | HOTEL | Behind an unassuming facade on a narrow street, this rambling hotel’s nine historic buildings (including Gustave Eiffel’s old workshop) surround a spacious sculpture-garden courtyard. All of the Art Deco-style rooms overlook the garden, where meals are served in summer. In cooler weather you can still enjoy garden views from the glass conservatory restaurant and bar decorated with postmodern Philippe Starck furniture. Pros: historic building; easy walk to the Marais and Bastille; lovely courtyard. Cons: often booked by groups; some rooms have a pillar in the center and look worn. | Rooms from: €269 | 74 rue Amelot, 11e, Bastille | 01-40-21-20-00 | www.lesjardinsdumarais.com | 205 rooms, 58 suites | No meals | Station: St-Sébastien-Froissart.
Standard Design Hôtel.
$$$$ | HOTEL | For an ultracontemporary hotel in the hipster corner of the Bastille district, the Standard Design is anything but standard. Its sleek facade and black-and-white interior reflect the mood of its fashion-forward clientele, and the fairly affordable rates don’t clash with the neighborhood’s funky boutiques and retro bistros. In-room stylings include chunky duvets, flat-screen TVs, and white lacquered furnishings. A bright breakfast room is on the top floor. Massages and manicures are available in your room. Pros: friendly service; personalized gift packs; funky shopping and nightlife district. Cons: street noise; some rooms very small; interior design lacks traditional Parisian charm. | Rooms from: €300 | 29 rue des Taillandiers, 11e, Bastille | 01-48-05-30-97 | www.standard-design-hotel-paris.com | 37 rooms | No meals | Station: Bastille.
CANAL ST-MARTIN
Hôtel Taylor.
$$ | HOTEL | Tucked away on a tiny one-way street between République and Canal St-Martin, the Hôtel Taylor offers spacious rooms at an affordable price in the edgy 10e arrondissement. Contemporary rooms painted in neutral tones are decorated with light-wood furnishings, pastel fabrics, and plush mattresses. Flat-screen TVs, coffeemakers, and dressers to store belongings make your stay extra cozy. Upscale Morabito toiletries are found in the bathrooms. Although the views are somber, the location is heavenly for those who want to stay off the beaten track but still be close to the Canal and Marais neighborhoods; the nearby métro keeps the city accessible. Pros: close to the métro; Wi-Fi available; breakfast can be served in your room. Cons: bathrooms and some rooms need refurbishment; street can seem intimidating at night. | Rooms from: €136 | 6 rue Taylor, 10e, Canal St-Martin | 01-42-40-11-01 | www.paris-hotel-taylor.com | 36 rooms | No meals | Station: République.
Fodor’s Choice | Le Citizen Hôtel.
$$$ | HOTEL | Boasting direct views over the historic Canal St-Martin and a setting close to the Marais, Le Citizen features a minimalist-chic decor, high-tech touches like loaner iPads, and a cool east-Paris vibe. The focus is urban and eco-friendly, with creative use of modern design elements like light wood and ambient lighting to make the most of small spaces. All but the tiniest “City” rooms are quite spacious for Paris, with walk-in showers, Omnisens toiletries, free Wi-Fi access, flat-screen TVs, and coffee and tea machines for a homey feel. The Zen apartment is large enough to accommodate a family of four quite comfortably. The views are lovely, but light sleepers may need to use the thoughtfully provided ear plugs for the active nightlife in the vicinity. Pros: trendy neighborhood; cool perks; friendly, attentive staff. Cons: smallest rooms are best for one person; noisy street; about 20 minutes by métro from the main attractions. | Rooms from: €199 | 96 quai de Jemmapes, 10e, Canal St-Martin | 01-83-62-55-50 | www.lecitizenhotel.com | 12 rooms | Breakfast | Station: Jacques-Bonsergent.
RÉPUBLIQUE
Hotel du Nord et de L’Est.
$$ | HOTEL | A sign of the times, the venerable Hotel du Nord et de l’Est near the Place de la Republique is equipped with an iPad terminal that can take room-service requests, arrange wake-up calls, or provide information about Paris sites. Other amenities include flat-screen TVs, in-room safes, Wi-Fi access, and a tranquil courtyard. Although the decor is a bit dated, the welcoming and personalized service, provided by third-generation hoteliers, makes up for it. The location puts you near the Marais and other trendy urban districts. Pros: handy address; accommodates families; reasonable rates. Cons: neighborhood can be noisy; uninspired decor; basic bathrooms. | Rooms from: €135 | 49 rue de Malte, 11e, République | 01-47-00-71-70 | www.hotel-nord-est.com | 45 rooms | No meals | Station: République.
Fodor’s Choice | Hôtel Fabric.
$$ | HOTEL | This urban-chic hotel tucked away on an old artisan street is fully in tune with the pulse of the lively Oberkampf neighborhood, close to fabulous nightlife, cocktail bars, restaurants, bakeries, and shopping (and the Marais and Canal St-Martin). The funky mix-and-match interior crosses industrial-loft style with eclectic antiques and still manages to be warm and welcoming. The friendly staff is always on the lookout for ways to improve your stay. Though on the smaller side, rooms are ample enough, with big windows and stylish decor, and bathrooms have soothing rain showerheads. The small in-hotel spa includes a gym, steam room, and a range of beauty treatments and massages (must be booked in advance). Pros: all-you-can-eat breakfast for €15; lots of great sightseeing within walking distance; warm and helpful staff. Cons: rooms can be noisy; very popular so book well in advance. | Rooms from: €153 | 31 rue de la Folie Méricourt, 11e | 01-43-57-27-00 | www.hotelfabric.com | 33 rooms | No meals | Station:Saint-Ambroise, Oberkampf.
Hôtel Libertel Gare de l’Est Français.
$$ | HOTEL | This Haussmann-era hotel facing historic Gare de l’Est is two blocks from Gare du Nord and the popular Canal St-Martin district. There’s a simple elegance to this establishment, which prides itself on around-the-clock reception service, morning newspapers, and free Wi-Fi access. In warmer weather, reserve a room overlooking the inner patio. The busy neighborhood is what you’d expect for close proximity to a major railway hub;the métro station right across the street is convenient, with direct lines to Notre-Dame, the Latin Quarter, and famous flea markets. Pros: convenient for Eurostar travelers; smoke-free establishment; friendly multilingual staff. Cons: noisy street; unattractive neighborhood; pricey breakfast. | Rooms from: €150 | 13 rue du 8 Mai 1945, 10e, République | 01-40-35-94-14 | www.hotelfrancais.com | 70 rooms | No meals | Station: Gare de l’Est.
Hôtel Palma.
$$ | HOTEL | Down the street from Père Lachaise Cemetery, this off-the-beaten-path hotel may be far from the action, but the métro is steps away and connects quickly and efficiently to the heart of the city. The rooms are spacious and simple, with modern wood paneling accenting a violet-and-green color scheme. Extras include flat-screen TVs with international channels and free Wi-Fi access. With budget prices, this small hotel is a good find for those who want to experience local Paris and leave a little money in their wallet to do so. Pros: a block from the Place de Gambetta; breakfast served in room; inexpensive rates. Cons: far from city center; lacks Parisian charm. | Rooms from: €135 | Angle 2 rue des Gâtines, 77 av. Gambetta, 20e, République | 01-46-36-13-65 | www.hotelpalma.com | 32 rooms | No meals | Station:Gambetta.
Hôtel Résidence Alhambra.
$$ | HOTEL | The gleaming white facade, enclosed garden, and flower-filled window boxes brighten this hotel in a lesser-known neighborhood between the Marais and Rue Oberkampf. Rooms are on the small side (splurge for a triple if you want the most space),but all were handsomely renovated in 2013. Some overlook the refurbished courtyard landscaped with pretty flowers and shrubs. You’ll stay wellconnected with a free Internet station in the lobby, and five métro lines are around the corner at Place de la République. Pros: popular nightlife district; friendly service; inexpensive rates. Cons: small doubles; a walk to the center of town; no air-conditioning. | Rooms from: €124 | 13 rue de Malte, 11e, République | 01-47-00-35-52 | www.hotelalhambra.fr | 53 rooms | No meals | Station: Oberkampf.
Le Général Hôtel.
$$$ | HOTEL | Designer Jean-Philippe Nuel applied his sleek styling to Le Général, one of Paris’s first low-budget, high-design hotels. Daring splashes of fuchsia decorate the walls in the common areas, and the rooms are more subdued in cream, chocolate, and chestnut. Clever decorative touches include clear-plastic desk chairs, ambient lighting, and silver rubber duckies in the bath; creature comforts include iPod docks and Nespresso coffeemakers. The fifth- and sixth-floor rooms facing the street have balconies with chimney-pot views to the west. One of the suites has a bathtub planted in the middle of the bedroom. A small fitness center and full-service bar are nice touches, while close proximity to métro stations is another convenience appreciated by guests. Pros: friendly service; smart design; in popular nightlife district. Cons: noisy neighborhood; not within easy walking distance of major tourist attractions; basic breakfast. | Rooms from: €250 | 5-7 rue Rampon, 11e, République | 01-47-00-41-57 | www.legeneralhotel.com | 43 rooms, 3 suites | No meals | Station: République; Oberkampf.
LATIN QUARTER
The Five Hôtel.
$$$$ | HOTEL | Small is beautiful at this design hotel on a quiet street near the Rue Mouffetard market and the Latin Quarter. Boudoir-like rooms include fairy lights above the beds, fluffy duvets, original Chinese-lacquer artworks, and 400 satellite channels on the flat-screen TVs. All rooms have free Wi-Fi access and L’Occitane toiletries in the bathrooms; the ground-floor suite has a private whirlpool tub on the patio. The One by the Five apartment-hotel across the street provides a luxurious getaway for a romantic weekend. The unorthodox retreat was designed to stimulate the five senses, hence the hotel’s name. Pros: unique design; personalized welcome; quiet side street. Cons: most rooms are too small for excessive baggage; the nearest métro is a 15-minute walk; most rooms only have showers. | Rooms from: €255 | 3 rue Flatters, 5e, Latin Quarter | 01-43-31-74-21 | www.thefivehotel.com | 24 rooms | No meals | Station: Gobelins.
Hôtel Collège de France.
$ | HOTEL | Exposed stone walls, wooden beams, and medieval artwork echo the style of the Musée Cluny, two blocks from this charming, family-run hotel. Rooms convey a less elaborate, more streamlined aesthetic than the lobby, and they’re relatively quiet owing to the side-street location. Room No. 62, on the top floor, costs a bit more but has a small balcony with superb views. Pros: walk to Rive Gauche sights; free Wi-Fi; ceiling fans. Cons: thin walls between rooms; no air-conditioning. | Rooms from: €118 | 7 rue Thénard, 5e, Latin Quarter | 01-43-26-78-36 | www.hotel-collegedefrance.com | 29 rooms | No meals | Station: Maubert-Mutualité, St-Michel, Cluny-La Sorbonne.
Hotel de Fleurie.
$$$ | HOTEL | The perfect Rive Gauche location and reasonable rates distinguish this cozy hotel on a quiet street just off a bustling boulevard. Close to the covered Marché Saint-Germain and short walk from Luxembourg Gardens and Notre-Dame, the hotel strikes a comfortable balance between century-old charm and up-to-date amenities. Look for beamed ceilings and stone walls in the petite common areas, where you can access free Wi-Fi. Tastefully decorated rooms provide an unpretentious and authentic French experience. Avoid the pricey breakfast charge and head to a local café or boulangerie for fresh croissants and coffee. Pros: good overall value; lots of charm; near restaurants, shops, and major attractions. Cons: a few rooms are very small; some street noise; bathrooms need updating. | Rooms from: €200 | 32-34 rue Grégoire de Tours, 6e, Latin Quarter | 01-53-73-70-00 | www.hoteldefleurieparis.com | 29 rooms | No meals | Station: Mabillon.
Hôtel des Grandes Écoles.
$$ | HOTEL | Distributed among a trio of three-story buildings, Madame Le Floch’s rooms have a distinct grandmotherly vibe because of their flowery wallpaper and lace bedspreads, but they’re downright spacious for this part of Paris. Enter through two massive wooden doors, then proceed to the legendary courtyard and garden, which becomes a second living room in warm weather and is a perfect breakfast spot. Rooms in the garden wing are the coolest in summer. Modern touches include Wi-Fi access, room service, and personal safes. Pros: close to Latin Quarter nightlife spots; lovely courtyard; good value. Cons: uphill walk from the métro; some noisy rooms; few amenities. | Rooms from: €160 | 75 rue du Cardinal Lemoine, 5e, Latin Quarter | 01-43-26-79-23 | www.hotel-grandes-ecoles.com | 51 rooms | No meals | Station: Cardinal Lemoine.
Hôtel des Grands Hommes.
$$$$ | HOTEL | The “great men” this hotel honors with its name rest in peace within the towering Panthéon monument across the street. The hotel’s look combines urns and laurel-wreath motifs with plush fabrics and plaster busts of writers and statesmen. Superior rooms are larger and face the Panthéon, and top-floor rooms have balconies with tables and chairs. All rooms have period furnishings, handsome wallpapers, and interesting architectural details. The sister Hôtel Panthéon next door has similar services and prices with country-style furnishings. Pros: major Latin Quarter sights within walking distance; comfortable and attractive rooms. Cons: closest métro is a 10-minute walk; neighborhood can be loud after dark; high price for this area. | Rooms from: €300 | 17 pl. du Panthéon, 5e, Latin Quarter | 01-46-34-19-60 | www.hoteldesgrandshommes.com | 30 rooms | No meals | Station: RER: Luxembourg.
Hotel Design de la Sorbonne.
$$$$ | HOTEL | For what French students pay to study at the Sorbonne (tuition is inexpensive), you can stay a few nights next door at this swanky design hotel. Recent renovations brought a bigger lobby, designer rooms, a high-tech sound system, a new breakfast area, and free Wi-Fi access throughout the hotel. Don’t spend too much time reading the prose on the hallway carpets or admiring each floor’s photo collection because you’ll want plenty of time to explore the Latin Quarter. The rooms can be rather small, with plush beds taking up much of the space. Each colorful yet tasteful room also comes with computer that doubles as a TV. Pros: centrally located; fun decor; attentive service. Cons: tiny rooms for the price; small breakfast room; lacks traditional French flavor. | Rooms from: €320 | 6 rue Victor Cousin, 5e,Latin Quarter | 01-43-54-01-52 | www.hotelsorbonne.com | 38 rooms | No meals | Station: Cluny-La Sorbonne.
Hôtel du Lys.
$$ | HOTEL | To jump into an inexpensive Parisian fantasy, just climb the stairway to your room in this former 17th-century royal residence. Well maintained, the endearingly odd-shape guest rooms have tiny nooks, weathered antiques, and exposed beams. It may be modest, but the lodging is extremely atmospheric. A typical French breakfast is served in the lobby (or in your room). Pros: central location on a quiet side street; historic character; free Wi-Fi. Cons: old-fashioned decor; perfunctory service; no air-conditioning or elevator. | Rooms from: €150 | 23 rue Serpente, 6e, Latin Quarter | 01-43-26-97-57 | www.hoteldulys.com | 22 rooms | Breakfast | Station: St-Michel, Odéon.
Fodor’s Choice | Hôtel Familia.
$$ | HOTEL | Owners Eric and Sylvie Gaucheron continue to update and improve this popular budget hotel—they’ve added custom-made wood furniture from Brittany, antique tapestries and prints, and lovely carpeting. The second and fifth floors have balconies (some with views of Notre-Dame), and all rooms are soundproofed so you don’t hear traffic below. Ask for the quadruple room if traveling en famille. Pros: attentive, friendly service; great value; lots of character. Cons: on a busy street; some rooms are small; some noise between rooms. | Rooms from: €134 | 11 rue des Écoles, 5e, Latin Quarter | 01-43-54-55-27 | www.familiahotel.com | 30 rooms | No meals | Station: Cardinal Lemoine.
Hôtel Henri IV Rive Gauche.
$$$ | HOTEL | About 50 paces from Notre-Dame and the Seine, this elegant hotel has identical, impeccable rooms with beige and rose linens and framed prints of architectural drawings. Street-side rooms get a bit of traffic noise, but views of the 15th-century Église St-Severin make up for it. The lobby has pleasing terra-cotta floor tiles, pale green walls, and a stone fireplace. Don’t confuse this place with other Henri IV hotels in the area. Pros: comfortable decor; close to major sights and RER station; friendly reception staff. Cons: on a busy street full of late-night bars; single rooms are small; furnishings showing their age. | Rooms from: €230 | 9 rue St-Jacques, 5e, Latin Quarter | 01-46-33-20-20 | www.henri-paris-hotel.com | 23 rooms | No meals | Station: St-Michel.
Hôtel La Manufacture.
$$$ | HOTEL | Just behind Place d’Italie and a short stroll from both the Jardin des Plantes and Rue Mouffetard, La Manufacture’s lesser-known location makes you feel like a vrai (real) Parisian. The lobby has oak floors, subtle lighting, a wooden bar, and a cozy breakfast room. Rooms are decorated in clean lines and natural colors; options include triples and eight sets of connecting rooms for families. The most expensive top-floor rooms are more spacious and have Eiffel Tower or Panthéon views. Pros: easy access to major métro and bus lines; safe, nontouristy district; bright breakfast room. Cons: street noise; a long stroll to the center of Paris; small rooms. | Rooms from: €180 | 8 rue Philippe de Champagne, 13e, Latin Quarter | 01-45-35-45-25 | www.hotel-la-manufacture.com | 57 rooms | No meals | Station: Place d’Italie.
Hôtel Le Vert Galant.
$$ | HOTEL | In a little-known neighborhood west of Place d’Italie you’ll find the welcoming Madame Laborde, the proprietress of this plain but proper hotel that encloses a peaceful green garden. Five of the rooms have kitchenettes, which can reduce dining-out costs, unless the hotel’s pricey L’Auberge Etchegorry restaurant lures you in. Victor Hugo was known to take a glass or two at this outstanding Basque dining spot. Pros: quiet location; kitchenettes in some rooms; safe residential district. Cons: not very central; no air-conditioning; some noise between rooms. | Rooms from: €160 | 43 rue Croulebarbe, 13e, Latin Quarter | 01-44-08-83-50 | www.vertgalant.com | 17 rooms | No meals | Station: Les Gobelins.
Hotel Les Degrés de Notre-Dame.
$$ | HOTEL | On a quiet lane a few yards from the Seine, this diminutive budget hotel is lovingly decorated with the owner’s flea-market finds. No. 23 is the largest of the lower-price rooms, whereas the more costly No. 24 has more space, wooden floors, and particularly appealing antique furnishings. The most expensive room, No. 501, occupies the entire top floor, with views of Notre-Dame. There’s no elevator, but colorful murals of Parisian scenes decorate the winding stairwell. The shabby Parisian character of the hotel and its French-Moroccan restaurant-bar make this establishment charming and unforgettable. Pros: breakfast included; attractive location in quiet part of Latin Quarter; close to public transport. Cons: street noise; no air-conditioning or elevator. | Rooms from: €135 | 10 rue des Grands Degrés, 5e, Latin Quarter | 01-55-42-88-88 | www.lesdegreshotel.com | 10 rooms | No meals | Station: Maubert-Mutualité.
Hôtel Notre Dame.
$$$$ | HOTEL | If you love the quirky and eclectic fashions of Christian Lacroix and don’t mind hauling your bags up some steps, this unique boutique hotel overlooking Notre-Dame may be for you. Located up a steep flight of stairs from the busy Latin Quarter, this hotel is a kaleidescope of colors and fabrics. Carpets are made to resemble cobblestones or wood parquet. Some of the original wooden beams from the 17th-century building are incorporated into the decor. Corner rooms like No. 32 or No. 52 have large windows with the best views. Room 25 overlooks the airshaft, so a flat-screen TV with a live video feed of the cathedral has been added as a real-time “window.” Every room has luxurious bedding, iPod docking stations, and extra-large showers. Do not confuse this place with the nearby Hotel de Notre Dame. Pros: decor by Christian Lacroix; views of the river; comfortable beds. Cons: stairs can be tricky with large bags; no minibars; some noise from busy street. | Rooms from: €280 | 1 quai Saint-Michel, 4e, Latin Quarter | 01-43-54-20-43 | www.hotelnotredameparis.com | 26 rooms | No meals | Station: St-Michel.
Hôtel Résidence Henri IV.
$$$$ | HOTEL | This small hotel on a quiet cul-de-sac is perfect for travelers—especially those with children—who need a home base where they can kick back, make their own meals, and feel at home. The elegant rooms have molded ceilings, marble mantelpieces, and kitchenettes equipped with two-burner stoves, dorm-size fridges, and sinks. Apartments have space for up to four guests. Free Wi-Fi is available in the lobby. Located steps from the Panthéon, Sorbonne, and Cluny Medieval Museum, the hotel is a tranquil yet convenient retreat that offers a real Parisian experience. Pros: handy kitchenettes; close to Latin Quarter attractions; charming interior decor. Cons: closest métro is a few blocks away; some rooms on the small side; decor a bit dated. | Rooms from: €299 | 50 rue des Bernadins, 5e, Latin Quarter | 01-44-41-31-81 | www.residencehenri4.com | 8 rooms, 5 apartments | No meals | Station: Maubert-Mutualité.
Hôtel Saint Jacques.
$$$ | HOTEL | Nearly every wall in this Latin Quarter hotel is bedecked with faux-marble and trompe-l’oeil murals. As in many older Paris hotels, each room is unique, but Second Empire furnishings and paintings dominate. A Montmartre cabaret atmosphere enlivens the breakfast room. Wi-Fi is available in the lounge bar. About half the rooms have tiny step-out balconies that give a glimpse of Notre-Dame and the Panthéon. Room No. 25 has a wraparound balcony, and No. 16 is popular for its historic ceiling fresco and moldings. Pros: unique Parisian decor; close to Latin Quarter sights; free Wi-Fi. Cons: busy street makes it noisy in summer; thin walls between rooms; decor needs refurbishment. | Rooms from: €216 | 35 rue des Écoles, 5e, Latin Quarter | 01-44-07-45-45 | www.paris-hotel-saintjacques.com | 38 rooms | No meals | Station: Maubert-Mutualité.
Hotel Seven.
$$$ | HOTEL | The “seven” refers to the level of heaven you’ll find at this extraordinary boutique hotel, where a team of designers and artists has created seven magnificent suites with imaginative themes like Alice in Wonderland, James Bond, and Marie-Antoinette. The Lovez-Vous has its own private whirlpool tub. Standard rooms break the rules with Plexiglas bathrooms and furnishings, “levitating” beds, and ceilings embedded with fiber-optic lights that make even the smallest rooms seem, well, heavenly. The wine bar has an interesting cocktail selection at night. Pros: fun design elements; copious breakfast buffet; quiet location near Mouffetard market street. Cons: small closets; several blocks to closest métro; expensive rates for so few amenities. | Rooms from: €250 | 20 rue Berthollet, 5e, Latin Quarter | 01-43-31-47-52 | www.sevenhotelparis.com | 28 rooms, 7 suites | No meals | Station: Censier-Daubentin.
Les Jardins du Luxembourg.
$$$ | HOTEL | Blessed with a personable staff and a warm ambience, this hotel on a calm cul-de-sac puts you just a block away from the Jardin du Luxembourg. The welcoming hardwood-floor lobby with a fireplace leads to smallish rooms furnished with wrought-iron beds topped with Provençal fabrics. Ask for a room with a balcony if you want a view, or request a larger ground-floor unit with a private entrance if you crave some privacy. A hot buffet breakfast is served in the cheerful dining room. It’s an easy commute to either the airport or the Eurostar via the RER train that stops at the end of the street. Pros: on a quiet street close to major attractions and transportation; hot buffet breakfast; relaxing sauna. Cons: some very small rooms; air-conditioning not very strong. | Rooms from: €199 | 5 impasse Royer-Collard, 5e, Latin Quarter | 01-40-46-08-88 | www.les-jardins-du-luxembourg.com | 26 rooms | No meals | Station: RER: Luxembourg.
Port-Royal Hôtel.
$ | HOTEL | The sparkling rooms and extra-helpful staff at the Port-Royal are well above average for hotels in this price range. Just below the Rue Mouffetard market at the edge of the 13e arrondissement, it may be somewhat removed from the action, but the snug antiques-furnished lounge areas, garden courtyard, and rooms with wrought-iron beds, mirrors, and armoires make it attractive to stay farther from the city center. Rooms at the lowest end of the price range are equipped only with sinks (an immaculate shared shower room is in the hallway). Pros: excellent value; attentive service; close to two major markets. Cons: not very central; on a busy street; no room air-conditioning. | Rooms from: €98 | 8 bd. de Port-Royal, 5e, Latin Quarter | 01-43-31-70-06 | www.port-royal-hotel.fr | 46 rooms, 20 with bath | No meals | Station: Les Gobelins.
ST-GERMAIN-DES-PRÉS
Artus Hôtel.
$$$$ | HOTEL | One of the best things about this comfortable six-story hotel is that it’s smack in the middle of Rue de Buci in the lively St-Germain-des-Prés district. This means you can breakfast at Paul (the well-known French boulangerie), shop at the wonderful street market, then relax with an espresso at Bar du Marché. Contemporary rooms have dark-wood furnishings and wood-beamed ceilings, while bathrooms are in marble and chrome. The more spacious duplex suite under the roof, No. 140, has a small bathroom loft with a shower, makeup table, and freestanding bathtub; the street-facing top-floor suite has a balcony with table and chairs, perfect for people-watching. Although there’s no restaurant, enjoy a breakfast buffet in the red-toned breakfast room; room service is available from Café Mabillon next door. Pros: attentive service and helpful concierge; excellent location on a market street; kid-friendly vibe. Cons: rooms are small and dated for the price; neighborhood is quite busy; service not a forte. | Rooms from: €300 | 34 rue de Buci, 6e, St-Germain-des-Prés | 01-43-29-07-20, 01-43-29-67-44 | www.artushotel.com | 25 rooms, 2 suites | No meals | Station: Mabillon.
Hôtel Bel Ami.
$$$$ | HOTEL | A short stroll from the famous Café de Flore, the Bel Ami hides its past as an 18th-century textile factory behind low-slung furnishings, computer stations, and flat-screen TVs. You’re immediately struck by the contemporary lobby, with club music and a sleek fireplace lounge to match. There’s free Wi-Fi throughout, and the fitness center includes a sauna and Tibetan-style treatment rooms. Rooms lean toward minimalist chic, which is just fine with the hotel’s young and trendy clientele. It fills up fast when the fashion circus comes to town. Rates for lodging and dining reflect the hotel’s reliance on clients who want to see, be seen, and are willing to pay the steep prices to do so. Pros: central St-Germain-des-Prés location; feels completely up-to-date; spacious fitness center and spa. Cons: some guests report loud noise between rooms; some small rooms in lower price category; not suitable for families with younger kids. | Rooms from: €550 | 7-11 rue St-Benoît, 6e, St-Germain-des-Prés | 01-42-61-53-53 | www.hotelbelami-paris.fr | 101 rooms, 7 suites | No meals | Station: St-Germain-des-Prés.
Hôtel Bonaparte.
$$$ | HOTEL | The service, amenities, and petit déjeuner (breakfast) may be far from luxurious at this unpretentious family-run hotel, but the location in the heart of St-Germain is fabulous. The relatively spacious rooms are comfortable, with old-fashioned wooden furnishings, tiled bathrooms, and brightly colored upholstery. The congenial staff and cozy lobby brighten your stay. Wi-Fi access is free. Children are welcome; baby cribs are even available. Light sleepers should request a room overlooking the quiet courtyard. Pros: upscale shopping neighborhood; large rooms for the Rive Gauche; welcoming to families. Cons: outdated decor; minuscule elevator fits one person; no shower curtains. | Rooms from: €189 | 61 rue Bonaparte, 6e, St-Germain-des-Prés | 01-43-26-97-37 | www.hotelbonaparte.fr | 29 rooms | No meals | Station: St-Sulpice.
Hôtel d’Aubusson.
$$$$ | HOTEL | The showpiece at this 17th-century town house in the heart of St-Germain-des-Prés is the stunning front lobby, spanned by massive beams and a gigantic stone fireplace reminiscent of French aristocratic homes of yore. Decked out in rich burgundies, greens, or blues, the bedrooms are filled with Louis XV and Regency antiques; even the smallest rooms are a generous size by Paris standards. Hermès toiletries fill the granite bathrooms. Behind the paved courtyard is a second structure with three apartments, all ideal for families. The hotel’s Café Laurent hosts jazz musicians Wednesday through Saturday evening. Pros: central location near shops and a market street; spacious rooms; staff greets you warmly. Cons: some of the newer rooms lack character; busy street and bar can be noisy; very touristy. | Rooms from: €405 | 33 rue Dauphine, 6e, St-Germain-des-Prés | 01-43-29-43-43 | www.hoteldaubusson.com | 49 rooms | No meals | Station: Odéon.
Hôtel de l’Abbaye.
$$$$ | HOTEL | An 18th-century convent, this compact hotel on a tranquil side street near St-Sulpice welcomes you with a cobblestone ante-courtyard. A breakfast room overlooks the spacious garden. Rooms have period furnishings and fabrics in stripes and floral designs. All have flat-screen TVs, and those upstairs have oak beams and sitting alcoves. Split-level suites have lovely private terraces. Pros: tranquil setting; upscale neighborhood; good value packages. Cons: rooms differ greatly in size and style; some bathrooms are quite small; old-fashioned decor a bit somber. | Rooms from: €290 | 10 rue Cassette, 6e, St-Germain-des-Prés | 01-45-44-38-11 | www.hotelabbayeparis.com | 35 rooms, 9 suites | Breakfast | Station: St-Sulpice.
Hôtel Duc de Saint-Simon.
$$$$ | HOTEL | For pure French flavor, including rooms decorated in floral chintz, head to this intimate hotel in a hidden location between Boulevard St-Germain and Rue de Bac. Four of the antiques-filled rooms have spacious terraces overlooking the courtyard. The 16th-century basement lounge is a warren of stone alcoves with a zinc bar and plush seating. Extra benefits include free Wi-Fi access and a shuttle service to and from the airports (additional cost). Pros: upscale neighborhood close to St-Germain-des-Prés; historic character; friendly service. Cons: rooms in the annex are smaller and have no elevator; cramped bathrooms; no room service. | Rooms from: €295 | 14 rue St-Simon, 7e, St-Germain-des-Prés | 01-44-39-20-20 | www.hotelducdesaintsimon.com | 29 rooms, 5 suites | No meals | Station: Rue du Bac.
Hôtel Millésime.
$$$$ | HOTEL | The beautiful stone archway of this 17th-century city mansion in St-Germain-des-Prés was the original entrance to the Saint Germain Abbey—as you enter, you’ll feel transported to the sunny south of France. Rooms are decorated in warm reds, yellows, and royal blues, with rich fabrics and sparkling tiled bathrooms. The centerpiece is the gorgeous Provençal courtyard with ocher walls and wrought-iron balconies. Ask for room No. 15, which has its own entrance. Friendly service and a copious buffet breakfast with a bounty of fresh pastries, morning charcuterie, fruit, and cheeses make this a great find. Free Wi-Fi, a personal safe, and satellite TV are added bonuses. Pros: upscale shopping nearby; young, friendly staff; plenty of atmosphere. Cons: ground-floor rooms can be noisy; smoke from courtyard when windows are open; some furnishings need repair. | Rooms from: €280 | 15 rue Jacob, 6e, St-Germain-des-Prés | 01-44-07-97-97 | www.millesimehotel.com | 19 rooms, 1 suite | No meals | Station: St-Germain-des-Prés.
Hôtel Odéon Saint-Germain.
$$$$ | HOTEL | Exposed stone walls and original wooden beams give this 16th-century building typical Rive Gauche character, and designer Jacques Garcia’s generous use of striped taffeta curtains, velvet upholstery, and plush carpeting imbues it with the distinct luxury of St-Germain-des-Prés. Several small rooms decorated with comfy armchairs and Asian antiques make up the lobby, where you can help yourself to a continental buffet breakfast in the morning and an honesty bar throughout the day. Rooms with flat-screen TVs and L’Occitane toiletries are decorated in eggplant and caramel. Those overlooking the street have more space and double windows for soundproofing. Pros: free Internet; luxuriously appointed rooms; in an upscale shopping district near Jardin Luxembourg. Cons: small rooms a challenge for those with extra-large suitcases; tiny elevator; prices high for room size and average service. | Rooms from: €260 | 13 rue St-Sulpice, 6e, St-Germain-des-Prés | 01-43-25-70-11 | www.hotelparisodeonsaintgermain.com | 24 rooms, 3 junior suites | No meals | Station: Odéon.
Hôtel Recamier.
$$$$ | HOTEL | This discreet boutique hotel in a quiet corner overlooking Eglise St-Sulpice is perfect if you’re seeking a romantic and cozy hideaway in the St-Germain-des-Près district. From its humble beginnings as a family-owned bed-and-breakfast, the establishment quickly made a name for itself. What this hotel lacks in space it makes up for with amenities and attentive service. The decor is a mix of 20th-century styles, with Egyptian-cotton linens, plush carpeting, original artwork, and thoughtfully designed lighting. Corner rooms are the most spacious, with views of the Eiffel Tower on the top three floors. Rooms overlooking the courtyard are the quietest. Complimentary afternoon tea and aperitifs are provided in the lounge, the perfect spot to indulge in a quiet Parisian moment. Pros: peaceful garden courtyard; free Wi-Fi and computer station; well-appointed bathrooms. Cons: small closets and bathrooms; room service only until 11 pm; no fitness area, spa, or restaurant. | Rooms from: €290 | 3 bis, pl. St-Sulpice, 6e,St-Germain-des-Prés | 01-43-26-04-89 | www.hotelrecamier.com | 24 rooms | No meals | Station: Mabillon.
Hôtel Relais Saint-Sulpice.
$$$ | HOTEL | Sandwiched between St-Sulpice and the Jardin du Luxembourg, this little hotel wins accolades for its location. Eclectic art and furnishings, some with an Asian theme, mix with wrought-iron bannisters and ornate molding to reflect the district’s bohemian energy. A zebra-print stuffed armchair sits beside an Art Deco desk, and an African mud cloth hangs above a neo-Roman pillar. The rooms themselves, set around an ivy-clad courtyard, are understated, with Provençal fabrics, carved wooden furnishings, and sisal carpeting. Compact bathrooms have marble vanities and mosaic elements. Downstairs there’s a sauna and a glass-roofed breakfast salon. Room 11 has a terrific view of St-Sulpice. Pros: chic location; close to two métro stations; bright breakfast room and courtyard. Cons: some smallish rooms; noise from the street on weekend evenings; poorly designed lighting. | Rooms from: €250 | 3 rue Garancière, 6e, St-Germain-des-Prés | 01-46-33-99-00 | www.relais-saint-sulpice.com | 26 rooms | No meals | Station: St-Germain-des-Prés, St-Sulpice.
Hôtel Verneuil.
$$$$ | HOTEL | Steps away from the Museé d’Orsay and the Louvre sits an intimate and tastefully decorated boutique hotel in the heart of St. Germain. The service is professional, and creature comforts abound: cozy duvets, free Wi-Fi access, and a generous morning buffet in an attractive vaulted stone cellar. As a romantic alternative, enjoy breakfast in bed while you decide whether to walk toward Notre-Dame, Luxembourg Gardens, or historic Café de la Flore—all a short distance from the charming establishment’s quiet street. Pros: nicely renovated rooms; near-it-all location on Left Bank; welcoming service. Cons: sometimes touristy; no restaurant; no gym or spa. | Rooms from: €290 | 8 rue de Verneuil, 7e, St-Germain-des-Prés | 01-42-60-82-14 | www.hotel-verneuil-saint-germain.com | 26 rooms | No meals | Station: Rue de Bac.
L’Hôtel.
$$$$ | HOTEL | There’s something just a bit naughty in the air at this eccentric and opulent boutique hotel. Is it the history as an 18th-century pavillion d’amour (inn for trysts)? Is it that in 1900, Oscar Wilde permanently checked out in Room 16? Or Jacques Garcia’s more recent makeover—rooms done in yards of rich fabrics in colors like ruby red and emerald green? It could be all of the above, plus the intimate bar and restaurant that allows you to mingle with the Parisian beau monde. A exposed stone grotto holds a countercurrent pool and steam room. Michelin-starred chef Julien Monbabut runs the kitchen of Le Restaurant with an outstanding menu of light and classic French cuisine. Pros: luxurious decor; elegant bar and restaurant; walking distance to the Musée d’Orsay and the Louvre. Cons: some rooms are very small for the price; closest métro station is a few blocks away; eclectic decoration seems mismatched. | Rooms from: €295 | 13 rue des Beaux-Arts, 6e, St-Germain-des-Prés | 01-44-41-99-00 | www.l-hotel.com | 16 rooms, 4 suites | No meals | Station: St-Germain-des-Prés.
Relais Christine.
$$$$ | HOTEL | On a quiet street on the Left Bank, this exquisite hôtel de charme dates back to the 13th century as a former abbey of the Grands-Augustins and has an impressive stone courtyard and interior garden. Spacious, well-appointed rooms offer a variety of classical and contemporary styles: Asian-theme wall fabrics, plain stripes, or rich aubergine finishes. Split-level lofts sleep up to five people, and several ground-level rooms with private patios open onto a lush garden. Pros: quiet address; close to the Latin Quarter; historic character. Cons: thin walls in some rooms; no on-site restaurant; a bit touristy. | Rooms from: €420 | 3 rue Christine, 6e, St-Germain-des-Prés | 01-40-51-60-80 | www.relais-christine.com | 44 rooms, 5 suites | No meals | Station: Odéon.
MONTPARNASSE
Apostrophe Hotel.
$$$ | HOTEL | Those enamored of the artistic and literary history of Paris’s Left Bank will appreciate this whimsical family-run hotel between Montparnasse and Luxembourg Garden. The unique decor was created by local artists and each room has a different theme—look for screen-printed curtains, ceiling-mounted artwork, and hand-painted walls. Rooms are small but well equipped, with flat-screen TVs with DVD players, free Wi-Fi connections, luxury bedding, and open-plan bathrooms with rain showers. Some have views of the Eiffel Tower and whirlpool tubs. From an oversized treble clef to typewriter keys, musicians, poets, and writers will enjoy clever decorative motifs designed with their specific passions in appropriately named rooms. You can’t miss the building—its painted facade makes it appear completely wallpapered on the outside. Pros: very friendly multilingual staff; quiet street in charming area; close to métro. Cons: limited closet space; little privacy with bathrooms opening up directly to rooms; no restaurant or bar. | Rooms from: €230 | 3 rue de Chevreuse, 6e, Montparnasse | 01-56-54-31-31 | www.apostrophe-hotel.com | 16 rooms | No meals | Station: Vavin.
Hôtel des Bains.
$ | HOTEL | In a charming neighborhood close to Jardin du Luxembourg and St-Germain-des-Prés, this hidden budget find has tastefully decorated rooms and excellent prices. Families go for the reasonably priced two-room suites, one with its own terrace, in a separate building off the courtyard garden. Local artists contributed different pieces to each individually decorated room. Friendly service and local flavor appeal to guests who don’t need all the bells and whistles. Pros: relaxing garden courtyard; great rates; typical Parisian character. Cons: no online booking; streets can be noisy; some rooms and bathrooms very small and worn. | Rooms from: €105 | 33 rue Delambre, 14e, Montparnasse | 01-43-20-85-27 | www.hotel-des-bains-montparnasse.com | 34 rooms, 8 suites | No meals | Station: Vavin, Edgar Quinet.
Hôtel Istria.
$$ | HOTEL | This small, family-run hotel on a quiet side street was a Montparnasse artists’ hangout in the ‘20s and ‘30s. It has a flower-filled courtyard and simple, comfortable rooms with Japanese wallpaper and light-wood furnishings. Breakfast, an additional €12, is served in a vaulted cellar. It’s a favorite of history buffs, but the price is steep for the modest rooms and amenities unless you book in advance with a promotional rate. Pros: close to major métro and train stations; quiet courtyard-facing rooms. Cons: no air-conditioning; some rooms very small; not centrally located. | Rooms from: €150 | 29 rue Campagne-Première, 14e, Montparnasse | 01-43-20-91-82 | www.hotel-istria-paris.com | 26 rooms | No meals | Station: Raspail.
Hôtel Lenox-Montparnasse.
$$$$ | HOTEL | On a street lined with fish restaurants, this six-story hotel gets points for its proximity to the Jardin du Luxembourg and good-value amenities like free Wi-Fi access. Standard-size rooms have barely a suitcasewidth between the wall and the foot of the bed—opt instead for a larger junior suite that has a fireplace and exposed beams. Complimentary coffee and tea are served in the salon in the afternoon, and an honor bar is open until late at night. Pros: lively district close to Montparnasse and St-Germain-des-Prés; well-stocked honesty bar; friendly, multilingual staff. Cons: standard rooms are small; noisy street; attracts business clientele. | Rooms from: €265 | 15 rue Delambre, 14e, Montparnasse | 01-43-35-34-50 | www.paris-hotel-lenox.com | 46 rooms, 6 suites | No meals | Station: Vavin.
Hôtel Raspail-Montparnasse.
$$$ | HOTEL | Montparnasse was the art capital of the world in the ‘20s and ‘30s, and this affordable hotel captures some of that spirit by naming its rooms after some of the illustrious neighborhood stars—Picasso, Chagall, and Modigliani. Pay a bit extra for one of the three deluxe corner rooms, which have windows facing the Eiffel Tower. All are soundproofed, but none completely drown out the traffic below. Pros: convenient to métro and bus; many markets and cafés nearby; friendly staff. Cons: traffic noise; some rooms small; dated interiors with worn fabrics. | Rooms from: €190 | 203 bd. Raspail, 14e,Montparnasse | 01-43-20-62-86 | www.hotelraspailmontparnasse.com | 38 rooms | No meals | Station: Vavin.
Hôtel Sainte-Beuve.
$$$ | HOTEL | On a tranquil street between the Jardin du Luxembourg and Montparnasse’s cafés and brasseries sits this pleasant six-story hotel. The homey lobby and breakfast area are bathed in light, showcasing a wood-fire hearth, plump sofas, and Greek Revival columns. A contemporary style dominates uncluttered rooms decorated with wooden furnishings. Free Wi-Fi lets you stay connected. Pros: stylish decor; good location without the tourist crowds; close to major métro lines. Cons: 20-minute walk to the Latin Quarter or St-Germain-des-Prés; small rooms and elevator; unremarkable service. | Rooms from: €242 | 9 rue Ste-Beuve, 6e, Montparnasse | 01-45-48-20-07 | www.hotelsaintebeuve.com | 21 rooms, 1 suite | No meals | Station: Vavin.
WESTERN PARIS
BLC Design Hotel.
$$$ | HOTEL | In the young and trendy area between Bastille and Nation, the BLC pays homage to everything blanc, hence the name. Minimalist rooms are done up in stark white tones with splashes of muted colors from oversize photographic murals and iridescent lamps. Flat-screen TVs, modern fixtures, and metallic mosaic tiles make up the simple designer look that oozes urban chic. The hotel attracts a hip, fashion-conscious crowd. Pros: cool, contemporary interior; free Wi-Fi access; good location in a lively neighborhood. Cons: small spaces; renovations needed in some bathrooms; expensive rates. | Rooms from: €225 | 4 rue Richard Lenoir, 11e, Oberkampf | 01-40-09-60-16 | www.blcdesign-hotel-paris.com | 29 rooms | No meals | Station: Charonne, Ledru Rollin.
Hôtel Gavarni.
$$$ | HOTEL | Considering the traditional, almost old-fashioned Parisian decor, you may be surprised to learn that this lodging, located in a chic residential neighborhood, is one of the city’s first certified eco-friendly hotels. The dedication to the environment is more than skin deep, and the staff uses energy- and water-saving measures and serves fair-trade foods at breakfast. Rooms have flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi access. Upgrade to one of the larger suites—the Trocadero Suite has a view of the Eiffel Tower. Pros: organic breakfast; charming neighborhood; friendly welcome. Cons: a few blocks to the nearest métro; standard rooms and bathrooms quite small; few amenities. | Rooms from: €190 | 5 rue Gavarni, 16e, Passy | 01-45-24-52-82 | www.gavarni.com | 21 rooms, 4 suites | No meals.
Le Sezz.
$$$$ | HOTEL | Created by French furniture designer Christophe Pillet in a chic residential district of Paris, Le Sezz mixes rough stone walls with splashes of tomato red and mustard yellow for the ultimate bachelor-pad feel. One-way-glass walls separate the sleeping areas from the bathrooms, many of which have tubs big enough for two. The owner has pushed the trend of scaled-down reception desks even further by not having one at all. All the paperwork is done in advance, so you can go directly to your room. A champagne bar and Espace Bien-Être (“well-being center,” or spa) cater to jet-setters. Pros: trendy designer decor; huge bathtubs; quiet location. Cons: close to Eiffel Tower but not much else; limited service for a hotel in this price range; breakfast area feels cold and somber. | Rooms from: €290 | 6 av. Frémiet, 16e,Passy-Auteuil | 01-56-75-26-26 | www.paris.hotelsezz.com | 13 rooms, 13 suites | No meals | Station: Passy.
Renaissance Paris Hôtel Le Parc Trocadéro.
$$$$ | HOTEL | This spacious and historic urban retreat in an upscale neighborhood, now part of the Marriott chain, was once the home of Alfred Nobel (who would go on to establish the famous peace prize). The contemporary room decor is nothing out of the ordinary, but the large beds with plush comforters are definitely a plus. Rooms are equipped with iPod docking stations, and wired and wireless Internet is available for a fee. Just a short stroll from the bustling Place du Trocadéro (overlooking the Eiffel Tower), the hotel is in a quieter residential district. A leafy courtyard lends a tranquil country-hideaway feeling. Pros: near métro stations; 24-hour fitness center and room service; complimentary breakfast. Cons: hosts large groups; long walk from center of Paris; service and housekeeping could be better. | Rooms from: €500 | 55-59 rue Raymond-Poincaré, 16e, Trocadéro | 01-44-05-66-66 | www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/parsp-renaissance-paris-le-parc-trocadero-hotel | 122 rooms | No meals | Station: Trocadéro.
Saint James Paris.
$$$$ | HOTEL | Beyond a stone gateway you’ll pass a beautiful fountain on your way into a grand foyer—this renovated 19th-century mansion feels like a countryside château nested in the heart of the busy metropolis. A sybaritic spa, exercise room, and what is probably the city’s most glorious hotel staircase forge a loyal following of guests who enjoy a clubby, upscale atmosphere day and night. Belonging to the Relais & Châteaux collection of premium hotels, the hotel is decorated in sumptuous fabrics, genteel antiques, and period furnishings. A quick 20-minute walk gets you to L’Arc de Triomphe. To reach the most famous avenue in the world, head down Avenue Foch, one of the widest city streets, which is lined with prestigious apartments. Pros: beautiful decor and spacious rooms; generous breakfast served in-room; wellness spa. Cons: expensive rates; residential area quiet at night; entrance may be difficult to find. | Rooms from: €495 | 43 av. Bugeaud, 16e, Western Paris | 01-44-05-81-81 | www.saint-james-paris.com | 17 rooms, 32 suites | No meals | Station: Porte Dauphine, Victor Hugo, Rue de la Pompe.