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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.
The Islands
Ile de la Cité
Hôtel Henri IV.
HOTEL | This 17th-century building, which once housed King Henri IV’s printing presses on the Ile de la Cité, offers few comforts or amenities, but you’ll be hard-pressed to find a more central hotel for this price. The narrow staircase (five flights, no elevator) looks like it still belongs in the 17th century; it leads to simple rooms with no TVs or telephones—recent renovations have added showers and toilets in all but one room. The payoff is a location overlooking the oasis-like Place Dauphine, just a few steps from the Pont Neuf and Sainte-Chapelle. For a genuine Parisian experience of what a local apartment would feel like in terms of interior conditions and square footage, look no further. If you desire luxury, space, and wireless Internet, head elsewhere. Pros: very quiet; top rooms have balconies; basic breakfast included. Cons: steep stairs in poor condition and no elevator; few services or amenities; reservations by phone only. | Rooms from: €78 | 25 pl. Dauphine, 1er | 75001 | 01–43–54–44–53 | www.henri4hotel.fr | 15 rooms, 14 with bath | Breakfast | Station: Cité, St-Michel, Pont Neuf.
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 recently renovated hotel, which retains many of its original 17th-century stone walls and wooden beams. Tiny balconies on the upper levels have Seine views. Number 501 has a tear-shape tub and a peek at the Panthéon. Breakfast is served in the vaulted stone cellar. Satellite TV, free Internet, and air-conditioning are welcome amenities. Pros: romantic location on the tiny Ile St-Louis; ancient architectural details; freshly decorated rooms. Cons: location makes the price high; métro stations across the bridge are not so convenient; small rooms. | Rooms from: €189 | 75 rue St-Louis-en-l’Ile, 4e, Ile St-Louis | 75004 | 01–46–34–04–80 | www.saintlouisenlisle.com | 20 rooms | Breakfast | Station: Pont Marie.
Around the Eiffel Tower
FAMILY | Eiffel Seine Hôtel.
HOTEL | Renovated six years ago, this tiny boutique hotel near the Eiffel Tower mixes contemporary amenities and designer furnishings with Art Nouveau touches—like the 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 room rates that are as attractive as its sleek look (contemporary black-and-white stripes feature heavily). Thoughtful extras include individual safes, free Wi-Fi, luxury linens, and flat-screen TVs. 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; air-conditioned rooms. Cons: not an easy walk to the center of town; minimal space in standard rooms; some busy street noise. | Rooms from: €170 | 3 bd. de Grenelle, 15e, Pont de Bir Hakeim-Champs de Mars | 75015 | 01–45–78–14–81 | www.eiffelseine.com | 45 rooms | Station: Bir Hakeim.
FAMILY | Grand Hôtel Lévêque.
HOTEL | Sandwiched in between cafés, this unobtrusive budget hotel can easily be missed, but its location on prime Parisian real estate is not 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 their knowledge. The bistro-style breakfast room next to the reception desk has machines for hot and cold beverages. Rooms have simple furnishings decorated in jeweltones and a few touches of leather. If you’re traveling with infants, ask for a baby cot, changing mat, highchair, and bottle-warmer, all available on request at the reception desk. Pros: central location in residential district on pedestrian street; free Wi-Fi; some rooms have balconies with Eiffel Tower view. Cons: air-conditioning available only from June to September; faded decor; plumbing problems in some bathrooms. | Rooms from: €160 | 29 rue Cler, 7e, Around the Eiffel Tower | 75007 | 01–47–05–49–15 | www.hotel-leveque.com | 50 rooms, 45 with bath | Station: École Militaire.
Hôtel du Cadran.
HOTEL | With its display of customized sweets for sale by trendy chocolatier Christopher Russel, the lobby of the Cadran looks more like a modern chocolate shop; and in fact, the “chocolate bar-boutique” serves specialized coffees, hot cocoa, and handmade macarons throughout the day in a cozy area with contemporary black leather armchairs. Expect a low-key, minimalist ambience just off the famed Rue Cler. Rooms redesigned three years ago in sleek decor are clean, and have flat-screen TVs and large queen- or king-size beds with fluffy duvet comforters. Head downstairs in the morning to the modern salle à manger—ambient lighting and black-and-white designer lattice chairs make it feel more like a hip lounge than breakfast room. lIn late 2012, the hotel opened its second property across the street with only 12 triplets. FSee Hotel Valadon. Pros: easy walk to market, Eiffel Tower, Les Invalides; free Wi-Fi; friendly 24/7 reception service. Cons: small rooms; premium prices for district; no restaurant or gym. | Rooms from: €250 | 10 rue du Champ de Mars, 7e, Around the Eiffel Tower | 75007 | 01–40–62–67–00 | www.cadranhotel.com | 40 rooms, 1 suite | Station: École Militaire.
Hôtel du Champ de Mars.
HOTEL | With its charming home-style feel, this affordable hotel around the corner from picturesque Rue Cler welcomes guests with a vibrant 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 delights with fresh patisserie, confiture, and café crème. Pros: free Wi-Fi; good value in chic quarter; walking distance to Eiffel Tower, Les Invalides, and Rodin Museum. Cons: small rooms compared to larger hotels; no air-conditioning; inconsistent service. | Rooms from: €115 | 7 rue du Champ de Mars, 7e, Around the Eiffel Tower | 75007 | 01–45–51–52–30 | www.hotelduchampdemars.com | 25 rooms | Breakfast | Station: École Militaire.
Hôtel Eiffel Trocadéro.
HOTEL | Be greeted with a curious blend of Second Empire and rococo styling upon entering this “eco-friendly” hotel on a quiet corner of a small incline just off Place Trocadéro. It underwent a management change and face-lift two years ago. The main floor lounge/bar/breakfast area is a trendy interpretation 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. Beds are large–either kings or queens–with hypoallergenic bedding and mattresses, and all rooms are equipped with modern conveniences (flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi), marble bathrooms with whirlpool tubs, and biodegradable amenities. lWant the best view? Ask for Chambre #60. Service is friendly and welcoming. Pros: views of Eiffel Tower in upper-floor rooms; upscale residential district convenient to métro; organic breakfast buffet. Cons: no full-service restaurant; not an easy walk to center of town; basic rooms feel cramped | Rooms from: €309 | 35 rue Benjamin-Franklin, Around the Eiffel Tower | 75116 | 01–53–70–17–70 | www.hoteleiffeltrocadero.com | 16 rooms, 1 suite (under renovation) | Breakfast | Station: Trocadéro.
Hôtel Le Tourville.
HOTEL | One of six boutique Parisian hotels operated by the Inwood Collection, this cozy, contemporary haven near the Eiffel Tower, Champs de Mars, and Invalides is a comfortable, quiet base for exploring Paris. Renovated in June 2012, each room has crisp, milk-white and cream damask upholstery punctuated with a burst of lipstick red and modern furnishings set against neutral walls with original artwork, offering an ambience that feels clean, fresh, and upscale without pretension. Two executive suites are spacious and bright with hot tubs. If you prefer your own private garden terrace, request the junior suite. All rooms are air-conditioned with free Wi-Fi and iPad docking stations, perfect if 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; soundproofed windows. Cons: standard rooms are small; air-conditioning works only during summer months; no restaurant. | Rooms from: €295 | 16 av. de Tourville, 7e, Around the Eiffel Tower | 75007 | 01–47–05–62–62 | www.hoteltourville.com | 27 rooms, 3 suites | Station: École Militaire.
Hotel Valadon Colors.
HOTEL | Sharing facilities with its bigger sister hotel a few steps away, the Hotel Valadon opened in late 2012 and is a bold experiment in modern design that appeals to urban creative types. Its candy-color rooms in lime greens and cherry reds have contemporary aesthetics like reflective lucite wall paneling, halogen spotlights, and geometric furnishings. Spacious and bright triplets and suites are air-conditioned with flat-screen TVs. With its own private terrace, the family cottage can accommodate up to five people. Pros: brand-new rooms; large closets and windows; convenient to Rue Cler, Eiffel Tower, and Les Invalides. Cons: must walk to Hotel Cadran for breakfast and bar; very modern design lacks “Parisian” charm; prices relatively steep for area. | Rooms from: €290 | 16 rue Valadon, Around the Eiffel Tower | 75007 | 01–47–53–89–85 | www.hotelvaladon.com | 12 suites | Breakfast | Station: École Militaire.
Le Bellechasse.
HOTEL | If you like eclectic modern interior design with no central theme, a tiny boutique hotel right around the corner from the popular Musée d’Orsay, in St-Germain, may be a good choice for its convenient location to major sites. French designer Christian Lacroix helped decorate all 34 rooms and public spaces of Le Bellechasse, from its lime-green bathrooms and ultra-modern fixtures to 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 patio courtyard. Each compact room design is unique, but all have a veritable mix of 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. The suite opens onto the patio courtyard. Pros: central location near top Paris museums; one-of-a-kind style with complimentary WiFi; friendly, helpful 24-hour staff. Cons: small rooms; street-facing rooms can be noisy; open bathrooms lack privacy. | Rooms from: €360 | 8 rue de Bellechasse, 7e, Around the Eiffel Tower | 75007 | 01–45–50–22–31 | www.lebellechasse.com | 33 rooms, 1 suite | Breakfast | Station: Solferino.
Fodor’s Choice | Shangri-La Hotel Paris.
HOTEL | This impressive restored 19th-century mansion overlooking the Eiffel Tower from the Right Bank was once the stately home of Prince Roland Bonaparte, grandnephew of the emperor himself. 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. Opened in December 2010, this stellar hotel is already a classic, with half of the rooms facing the Eiffel Tower, and more than 60% with their own balconies. All rooms have ultra-elegant French and Asian touches and the latest technological amenities. Marble bathrooms have deep soaking bathtubs, heated floors, Bulgari toiletries, and TV screens imbedded 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 a new luxury wellness center with therapeutic facials, massages, and body treatments make it hard to ever leave this hotel. For the best views in town, splurge even more for the top-floor Suite Shangri-La. Pros: close to the métro and luxury shopping district; varied culinary options for all tastes; exceptional suites all equipped with complimentary wireless Internet. Cons: astronomically high room rates and dining; pool only open until 9 pm; some views obstructed. | Rooms from: €850 | 10 av. Iéna, 16e, Around the Eiffel Tower | 75016 | 01–53–67–19–98 | www.shangri-la.com | 54 rooms, 27 suites. | 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 and colors in aubergine, tea rose, chocolate brown, slate blue, and pidgeon-grey demonstrate attention to aesthetic details that would have pleased the likes of Marie-Antoinette who may have well lusted after the sumptuous silk and velvet for her attire. From Hermès toiletries and La Durée welcome macaroons to jazz on the in-room stereo and free Wi-Fi, the room’s little touches let guests know they can expect luxurious hospitality, even a professional multilingual staff catering to special requests. It’s no surprise the hotel attracts an upscale clientele and international celebrities who seek a private refuge–splendid rooms in four different color schemes and bathrooms are more than spacious with higher floors boasting lovely city views; suites and corridors have been carefully designed with connecting doors to accommodate larger families and groups for ultimate privacy. The new Le Keller restaurant serves seasonal French cuisine with 24/7 room service available. Head to the lower level with its ambient lighting and mirrors to enjoy the hamman, sauna, gym, and Sothy’s spa. On your honeymoon? Everything from flowers to wine is pink in the La Vie en Rose package, while the Mona Lisa includes 2-4-6 day museum passes. If you splurge on a premium Prestige Room (#34, 44, or 54 are the best), you’ll feel like a VIP in your own Parisian pied-à-terre. Pros: extremely comfortable and elegant rooms; friendly, attentive service; central location. Cons: small spa; gym only has five machines; limited breakfast buffet | Rooms from: €400 | 35 rue de Berri, 8e, Champs-Élysées | 75008 | 01–53–53–20–20 | www.champs-elysees-plaza.com | 35 rooms and suites | Breakfast | Station: St-Philippe-du-Roule, George V.
FAMILY | 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—yet the guest rooms are technologically updated with TVs integrated into bathroom mirrors and DVD/CD players. In pale blues and muted greens, the rooms are decked in sumptuous fabrics and Louis XVI trimmings, consistent with the franchise’s ultraluxe standards. Bathrooms are marble-trimmed with Hermès toiletries. Book a table at the 2-Michelin starred Le Cinq restaurant–one of Paris’s premier dining rooms and gastronomic jewels. The low-lit spa and fitness center pampers guests with 11 treatment rooms, walls covered in decorative Toile de Jouy fabrics, and an indoor swimming pool. A relaxation room is available for guests who arrive before their rooms are ready. Even children get five-star treatment, with personalized T-shirts, in-room video consoles, and portable DVD players to distract them at dinnertime. Head to the lower level business center, which is free for guests and has private rooms and cubbies with everything you need to work—email, fax, print, and video conference. Enjoy the quiet clublike bar that is open after hours and serves pricey but well-prepared cocktails. Don’t be surprised to be rubbing elbows with business and show business elite; the hotel remains a magnet for those in search of reliable creature comforts and don’t blink an eye at the extremely expensive prices throughout the establishment. Pros: privileged address near couture shopping district; courtyard dining in summer; guest-only indoor swimming pool. Cons: several blocks from the nearest métro; slow dial-up Internet in rooms (extra €28 for wireless connection); lacks the personal intimacy of smaller boutique hotels with service catering more to VIPs and wealthy clientele. | Rooms from: €815 | 31 av. George V, 8e, Champs-Élysées | 75008 | 01–49–52–70–00, 800/332–3442 in U.S. | www.fourseasons.com/paris | 184 rooms, 60 suites | Breakfast | Station: George V.
Hidden Hotel.
HOTEL | The rough-hewn wood facade heralds the nature-friendly theme of this Belgian-owned, 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 as materials. Chic rooms refreshed in mid-2012 overlook a quiet street, have open-plan bathrooms in black slate and marble, and 100% organic Coco-Mat bed mattresses with pure linen sheets. Very friendly and professional down-to-earth service, cozy-and-cool first-floor sitting areas, and a health-oriented breakfast buffet have already given this new hotel a loyal following from hip, young design and media types looking for something original. For the most fitness-minded, book a suite with its own yoga wall. The hotel receives high marks for its eco-friendly approach and successful implementation of sustainable resourcing. Pros: organic toiletries in recycled packaging; free Wi-Fi; a block from main métro line and Champs-Élysées. Cons: rooms on the small side; open-plan bathrooms have little privacy for roommates; separate entrance and breakfast area for some rooms isn’t intimate. | Rooms from: €299 | 28 rue de l’Arc de Triomphe, 17e, Champs-Élysées | 75017 | 01–40–55–03–57 | www.hiddenhotelparis.com | 33 rooms, 2 suites | Breakfast | 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 feels like a living room, with deep sofas covered in colorful satin pillows, dark hardwood floors, and delicate Chinese floral wallpaper. Rooms have Toile de Jouy fabrics, free Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs. 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. A Relais & Châteaux property, the hotel is on the more expensive side and claims to meet the standards of hospitality excellence, but service is uneven and not as warm as the interior décor. Pros: intimate, home-style atmosphere; close to the Champs-Élysées. Cons: across from a noisy bar; no fitness center; afternoon tea service needs improvement. | Rooms from: €420 | 8 rue Frédéric Bastiat, 8e, Champs-Élysées | 75008 | 01–42–56–17–00 | www.hoteldanielparis.com | 24 rooms, 2 suites | Station: St-Philippe-du-Roule.
Hôtel Fouquet’s Barrière.
HOTEL | Steps away from one of the world’s most famous streets, the luxury hotel adjacent to the legendary Fouquet’s Brasserie at the corner of the Champs-Élysées and Avenue George V is recognizable with its uniformed valets, parked sports cars, and elegant Haussmannian entryway. The design, by Jacques Garcia, is more refined retro than opulent, with a rich neutral palette in silk, mahogany, velvet, and leather. French-owned by casino magnet Lucien Barrière, the hotel competes with Parisian palaces by offering 24-hour butler service, plasma TV screens hidden behind mirrors, spacious marble bathrooms, and access to fine dining. Le Diane restaurant offers a more feminine 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 ultra-trendy bar with a view on a modern interior courtyard and summertime terrace. It’s the perfect place to meet for an apéro before heading to the historic eatery next door. An international well-heeled crowd, suited business people, trendy wanna-bes, and the occasional celebrity comprise the guestlist. Service is young, friendly, and relatively unpretentious. Pros: many rooms overlook the Champs-Élysées; métro very close; beautiful U Spa and fitness center. Cons: very expensive room and dining prices; bar can get overcrowded; many corporate group events held throughout the year can make rooms feel “soul-less.” | Rooms from: €730 | 46 av. George V, 8e, Champs-Élysées | 75008 | 01–40–69–60–00 | www.fouquets-barriere.com | 81 rooms, 31 suites | Breakfast | Station: George V.
FAMILY | Hôtel Lancaster.
HOTEL | Once a Spanish nobleman’s town house, this luxurious retreat is now in French hands and it shows, from local staffing to elegant decoration. A renovation in 2011, Michelin-star restaurant, and lush courtyard garden have updated this historic property built in 1889. Rooms have been redecorated to reflect l’art de vivre in classic French styling, now with crisp linens, ambient lighting, and latest technology. There are more than 1,000 antiques and 18th-century paintings throughout the hotel, as well as the original wood parquet floors, yet you’ll also find Bose speakers, iHome docking stations, free Wi-Fi, and double-paned soundproof windows. Salons with traditional French furnishings on the first floor make you feel like you’ve entered a private bourgeois mansion. The Marlene Dietrich suite (#401), where the actress once lived, has its own grand piano and DVDs of her films. lThecompact fitness room hasasplendid view of Sacré-Coeur. Pros: Sunday brunch with organic farm products; just steps away from the Champs-Élysées and five minutes from métro; excellent seasonal menus at La Table du Lancaster. Cons: size of rooms varies greatly; pricey room service; rooms look tired and require more refurbishment. TIP When weather permits, head to the outdoor terrace in the “feng shui”–inspired courtyard. An elevator goes up to wheelchair-accessible rooms on the seventh and eighth floors. | Rooms from: €650 | 7 rue de Berri, 8e, Champs-Élysées | 75008 | 01–40–76–40–76, 877/757–2747 in U.S. | www.hotel-lancaster.fr | 43 rooms, 14 suites | Breakfast | Station: George V.
FAMILY | 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 have authentic Louis XV and Louis XVI furniture, embroidered silk fabrics, and marble bathrooms; others have a more relaxed classical 19th-century style. The public salons are stocked with old-master paintings and sculptures, sumptuous carpets and tapestries, gilded chandeliers, and fine antique furnishings. The newly redecorated haute cuisine Epicure restaurant run by 3-star Michelin chef Eric Frechon has a beautiful outdoor courtyard terrace to enjoy in warmer weather. A gourmet brasserie de luxe with contemporary floral décor offers a chic alternative. Sip an after-hours martini in the sophisticated but extremely friendly Le Jardin Français lobby bar that buzzes with a discreet wealthy crowd. Exclusive Swiss La Prairie products are featured in the stunning spa opened in 2011 with a hair salon, 8 treatment rooms (including couple’s cabins), and children’s area. Book a generously-sized suite for a special occasion and the ultimate 5-star luxury experience is guaranteed. Pros: teak-and-glass indoor pool with solarium; located on luxury shopping street; full-service spa with landscaped terrace. Cons: a few blocks from the nearest métro; old-fashioned atmosphere may not be for everyone; very expensive room rates and dining. | Rooms from: €850 | 112 rue du Faubourg St-Honoré, 8e, Champs-Élysées | 75008 | 01–53–43–43–00 | www.hotel-bristol.com | 96 rooms, 92 suites | Station: Miromesnil.
Hôtel Mathis Elysées Matignon.
HOTEL | The best asset of this dated boutique hotel, once fashionably eclectic, is its location near luxury shops and major tourist sites. Each room was refurbished six years ago with a strange mix of antiques and artwork. Leopard-print carpets, multicolored bedspreads, mustard fabrics, and Baroque mirrors make for a style that’s more hodgepodge than Art Deco. Room 43 borders on tacky boudoir style, with the top-floor suite offering a modern pop-art look. The exclusive Mathis’s restaurant and bar is owned separately from the hotel but shares an entrance; expect to be turned away by doormen after hours unless you’re a local VIP or celebrity. With proximity to numerous restaurants and lounges nearby, you’ll have plenty of alternatives for dining and drinking. Brush up on your French—the staff speaks limited or heavily-accented English. Pros: a block from the Champs-Élysées and Faubourg St-Honoré; free Wi-Fi; air-conditioned rooms. Cons: service inconsistent and very impersonal; noise from street and bar downstairs; very few amenities. | Rooms from: €310 | 3 rue de Ponthieu, 8e, Champs-Élysées | 75008 | 01–42–25–73–01 | www.paris-hotel-mathis.com | 23 rooms | Station: Franklin-D.-Roosevelt.
FAMILY | Fodor’s Choice | Hôtel Plaza Athénée.
HOTEL | Superlative; the word sums up the overall impression of this glamorous landmark hotel on one of the most expensive avenues in Paris with luxury shops. Prime-time stardom as Carrie Bradshaw’s Parisian pied-à-terre in the final episodes of Sex and the City boosted the glitzy image of this 1911 palace hotel. Its revival as the city’s lap of luxury, however, owes more to the meticulous attention of the renowned three-star Michelin chef Alain Ducasse, who oversees everything culinary from the hotel’s haute-cuisine restaurant and restored 1930s Relais Plaza brasserie to the quality of the breakfast croissants. Sumptuous rooms have been redone in Regency, Louis XVI, or Art Deco style, with remote-control air-conditioning, mini Hi-Fi/CD players, and even a pillow menu. Sip a cocktail during “blue hours” (6–10 pm) and linger into “red hours” (11 pm–2 am) for deejay-spun music. The trendy bar also is the place to go for celebrity-spotting and has as its centerpiece an impressive Bombay glass comptoir glowing like an iceberg. In winter, there’s an interior courtyard ice-skating rink. Expect to be extremely spoiled with the French art of palatial living. Pros: Eiffel Tower views; special attention to children; Dior Institute spa. Cons: vast difference in style of rooms; easy to feel anonymous in such a large hotel and if not a VIP; very expensive prices. | Rooms from: €995 | 25 av. Montaigne, 8e, Champs-Élysées | 75008 | 01–53–67–66–65, 866/732–1106 in U.S. | www.plaza-athenee-paris.com | 194 rooms, 46 suites | Breakfast | Station: Alma-Marceau.
FAMILY | 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 king-size beds and 6-foot 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 restaurant in summer, has panoramic views. lParents will find a friend in the concierge, who can arrange bilingual babysitters, and offers recommendations on kid-friendly restaurants and entertainment. Pros: a block from the Champs-Élysées and Arc de Triomphe; rooftop garden terrace; intimate hotel bar frequented by locals. Cons: old-fashioned Parisian decor that can feel worn and dowdy; some soundproofing issues; neighborhood can have a majestic yet cold atmosphere. | Rooms from: €650 | 17 av. Kléber, 16e, Champs-Élysées | 75116 | 01–53–64–32–00 | www.raphael-hotel.com | 53 rooms, 39 suites | Breakfast | Station: Kléber.
Jays Paris.
HOTEL | Built in 1850 and refurbished in 2006, the Jays Paris is a discreet, 19th-century mansion with just five suites, located between the Champs-Élysées and Eiffel Tower. Each room has a different décor theme with a colorful blend of traditional and eclectic styles, but each is luxuriously appointed with antiques, artworks, Clarins toiletries, and kitchenettes. The staff go out of their way to make each guest feel pampered. Free Wi-Fi and a 24/7 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; three rooms can be connected for families; several lounge areas. Cons: no elevator; business district off main avenues lacks charm; modern breakfast room below street level contrasts starkly with historic building and traditional rooms. | Rooms from: €490 | 6 rue Copernic, Champs-Élysée | 75116 | 01–47–04–16–16 | www.jays-paris.com | 5 suites | Breakfast | Station: Boissière.
Le 123 Hôtel.
HOTEL | Exposed brick, Italian marble, rough concrete, and sleek wood mixed with leather, feathers, Swarovski crystals, and fiber-optic fairy lights give this boutique hotel a genuinely eclectic atmosphere without pretension. 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 to the métro station across the street, the 123 gets extra points for being in walking distance to major sites and shopping, in addition to free wireless Internet, iPod docking stations, and upscale linens. Service is unfortunately where the stylish hotel could use significant improvement; if you can deal with inconsistency in friendliness and helpfulness, the polished air-conditioned rooms with lovely bathrooms will put you in a prime location without exhorbitant premium prices. lCheck website for online promotions that include breakfast and book in advance for best deals. Pros: chic décor; upscale neighborhood with luxury shopping; hotel bar open daily. Cons: service can be impolite; no on-site restaurant; some rooms quite small for the | Rooms from: €240 | 123 rue du Faubourg St-Honoré, 8e, Champs-Élysées | 75008 | 01–53–89–01–23 | www.astotel.com/hotel-le123-elysees-paris.php | 41 rooms | Breakfast | Station: St-Philippe-du-Roule, Franklin- D.-Roosevelt.
Mon Hotel.
HOTEL | A contemporary design, modern comforts, and its close proximity to the Arc de Triomphe and Champs-Élysées—a 10-minute walk away—are big draws for this stylish boutique hotel. The lobby is dramatic, but the rooms are more intimate, with chamois wall coverings, neutral tones, and black-and-white portraits of famous personalities. High-tech amenities include MP3 docking stations and Nespresso machines in some rooms, and more than 1,000 satellite TV stations. Relax in the purple velour and black wood bar-restaurant serving fusion cuisine or at the private spa with Turkish bath. Samsung tablets with limited connectivity are available to rent for a nominal fee of 10€/24hours. Pros: unique contemporary styling; convenient to the Champs-Élysées and métro; quiet residential street. Cons: some rooms have limited closet space; no extra beds for children; signature cocktails expensive and breakfast at additional cost. | Rooms from: €540 | 1 rue Argentine, 16e, Champs-Élysées | 75116 | 01–45–02–76–76 | www.monhotel.fr | 36 rooms | Station: Argentine.
Pershing Hall.
HOTEL | History meets post-modern at this reliably trendy hotel-restaurant-lounge. Built in the 18th century for French aristocracy and also the former American Legion hall, this circa-2001 boutique hotel quickly became 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 and cool attitudes to match. Rooms have stark white linens, slender tube-like hanging lamps, and tubs perched on round marble bases. Deluxe rooms and suites face the courtyard dining room, whose west wall is a outstanding six-story hanging garden with 300 varieties of plants by botanist Patrick Blanc. The lounge bar remains a popular meeting spot for both tourists, locals, and suited business executives. It serves an excellent international menu of drinks, dinner, and 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 wireless Internet throughout hotel. Cons: bar noise can be heard in some rooms; expensive neighborhood; inconsistent service. | Rooms from: €470 | 49 rue Pierre-Charron, 8e, Champs-Élysées | 75008 | 01–58–36–58–00 | www.pershinghall.com | 20 rooms, 6 suites | Breakfast | Station: George V, Franklin-D.-Roosevelt.
Renaissance Paris Arc de Triomphe.
HOTEL | This modern, 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, large for Paris, decorated in browns, beiges, and slate gray punctuated by touches of bright color. Floor-to-ceiling windows bring in the light, and offer views over Paris 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 channels and Pay TV. There’s a restaurant serving French and fusion cuisine in the hotel, as well as a well-equipped gym. lCheck the hotel’s website for special promotional deals. Pros: walkable distance to Champs-Élysées and métro; clean and spacious standard rooms; good discounts with Marriott points. Cons: neighborhood lacks character; hotel hosts many business conferences; service rather unfriendly with unjustified pretentious attitudes. | Rooms from: €450 | 39 av. de Wagram, Champs-Élysées | 75017 | 01–55–37–55–37 | www.marriott.fr/hotels/travel/parwg-renaissance-paris-arc-de-triomphe-hotel | 84 rooms, 17 suites | Breakfast | Station: Ternes.
FAMILY | Villa Brunel.
HOTEL | On a quiet corner, this small 19th-century building between the Arc de Triomphe and Porte Maillot is an exceptional deal with good service, if you don’t mind the less-than-convenient location. Cheerful rooms have richly colored striped fabrics and dark wood trim. Ask for one on an upper floor with a view across Rive Droite rooftops. There’s air-conditioning on the sixth (top) floor only. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout. Pros: suites good for families; quiet location; close to Palais Congrès and RER/métro access. Cons: a bit off the beaten track; too far to walk to most sites; small bathrooms. | Rooms from: €236 | 46 rue Brunel, 17e, Champs-Élysées | 75017 | 01–45–74–74–51 | www.villabrunel.com | 32 rooms | Breakfast | 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 repro furniture and antiques. Wi-Fi and in-room flat-screen TVs lend an air of modernity; a copious breakfast buffet serves fresh pastries and juices. In World War I the hotel served as headquarters for a Quaker mission. Upgrade to the junior suite–the price is reasonable for Paris standards and offers more generous space and luxurious details like Annick Goutal amenities and bathrobes. Pros: charming hotel on calm side street; less than a block from the métro/RER station and close to Notre-Dame Cathedral; excellent service from friendly staff. Cons: small rooms; soundproofing between rooms could be better; some rooms noisy. | Rooms from: €226 | 20 av. Victoria, 1er, Les Halles | 75001 | 01–42–33–74–59 | www.hotel-britannique.fr | 39 rooms, 1 suite | Breakfast | 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, white wood furniture, and flea market finds. Bathrooms are marble; older ones have mosaic tiling. 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 must have guests buzzed in to enter. Pros: small but comfortable rooms and bathrooms; central location on a pedestrian street; good value. Cons: old building with small rooms; no elevator; intimidating area of central Paris, especially after dark. | Rooms from: €122 | 3 rue du Cygne, 1er, Les Halles | 75001 | 01–42–60–14–16 | www.cygne-hotel-paris.com | 18 rooms | Breakfast | Station: Étienne Marcel, Les Halles.
Hôtel Tiquetonne.
HOTEL | Just off the Montorgueil market and a short walk from Les Halles (and slightly seedy Rue St-Denis), 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 have few amenities, but they’re clean and some are spacious. Cheaper rooms for fewer than 50 euros 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, service reliably friendly, and prices a bargain. Pros: dirt-cheap rooms in the center of town; in trendy shopping and nightlife area; seventh-floor 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 | 75002 | 01–42–36–94–58 | www.hoteltiquetonne.fr | 45 rooms, 33 with bath | 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 20 years. The multilingual staff has a city-wide 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 (01–78–76–59–14 | 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. Agencies based in the United States can also help you find an apartment in Paris: Rendez-vous à Paris (rendezvousaparis@club-internet.fr | www.rendez-vousaparis.com) has just a few properties, but all are in prime locations and are top quality at a reasonable price. Rentals in Paris (516/874–0474 | abby@rentals-paris.com | www.rentals-in-paris.com) has two dozen centrally located rentals with all-inclusive weekly rates and last-minute special offers.
Moreover, Fodorites recommend these rental services:
“I rented . . . from Rent Paris (www.rentparis.com) last summer and had a great experience.” —slangevar
“I always rent from Paris Perfect (www.parisperfect.com). All of their places are lovely” —gracejoan3
“Vacation in Paris (www.vacationinparis.com) is a great company and service, and one can pay in U.S. dollars. . . . One also gets the apartment keys mailed . . . no need to meet an agent to let one into the apartment.” —Guenmai
“We rented from Guest Apartment Services (www.guestapartment.com). . . Superlative experience. I stayed there with my mother and she is picky!” —Leely2
“We have rented three apartments in recent years from Rothray (www.rothray.com). I can’t tell you how completely reliable Ray is and how nice his apartments are. . . . Look at his website and know he will help you with everything and is 100% honest.” —MAP
“The English-speaking owners are a pleasure to deal with, and seem to have thought of everything. . . . See for yourself at Rental Apartment Paris (www.RentalApartmentParis.com).” —lregeo
“We have rented twice from Thierry at Paris Best Lodge (www.parisbestlodge.com). He is great . . . I would definitely trust him.” —emsmom
Louvre/Tuileries
Hôtel Brighton.
HOTEL | A few of Paris’s most prestigious palace hotels face the Tuileries or Place de la Concorde, and while the Brighton sits on the same prime real estate under the arcades, it offers visitors a privileged stay for a fraction of the price. Built at the beginning of the 19th century by Lord Egerton, the historical establishment was refurbished in late 2012. The entry is modest compared to grande dame hotels down the road, but don’t let the geometric carpeting and modern furniture fool you. Rooms located on five floors exude a classic elegance blending antiques with comfortable square footage. While some rooms are handsomely decorated with grey woolen bedthrows and oversized royal blue pillows, others like #407 offer quintessential Parisian charm with pretty floral patterns and a marble fireplace. The smallest rooms overlook the courtyard; larger ones face the street with a magnificent view of the gardens. Extensive renovations updated nearly all rooms, adding flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and heated towel racks in spacious bathrooms with marble vanities. Relax in the first floor bar and lounge surrounded by marble columns, mirrored walls, and contemporary furnishings–try the haute-patisserie by renowned French chef Philippe Conticini featured on the salon du thé menu. Pros: convenient central location in a prestigious neighborhood; friendly service; breakfast buffet (free for kids under 12). Cons: variable quality in decor between rooms; no restaurant for lunch or dinner; no fitness center or spa. | Rooms from: €320 | 218 rue de Rivoli, 1er, Louvre/Tuileries | 75001 | 01–47–03–61–61 | www.paris-hotel-brighton.com | 61 rooms | Breakfast | Station: Tuileries.
Hôtel Crayon.
HOTEL | Newly managed since 2011 by artists and reopened as a “handcrafted” concept hotel near the Louvre and Palais-Royal, the Hotel Crayon differentiates itself with an eclectic pop-art decor. Look for the oversized pencil against handpainted 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 suiting light travelers who don’t mind small bathrooms and closets. Expect walk-in showers, good lighting, designer toiletries, memory-foam style beds, personalized A/C, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi. The suite has a free-standing clawfoot bathtub and separate sinks. Offering an honesty bar, the lobby-lounge has shelves of books to read or exchange. Expect a unusual canvas of local and international guests as colorful as the hotel’s interior design. Pros: bright decor; very friendly staff; central location. Cons: small bathrooms in standard rooms; basement breakfast area with no restaurant; exposed lobby lounge lacks any coziness and warmth. | Rooms from: €249 | 25 rue du Bouloi, 1er, Louvre/Tuileries | 75001 | 01–42–36–54–19 | www.hotelcrayon.com | 24 rooms | Station: Louvre.
Hôtel Londres St-Honoré.
HOTEL | Across from a historic 17th-century church smack-dab in the center of Paris, this no-frills inexpensive hotel is comfortable and clean. Exposed oak beams, statues in niches, and rustic stone walls give the place an old-fashioned air. Most rooms have floral cotton bedspreads, dark red-orange carpets, and standard wooden hotel furniture, though bathrooms are more modern with hair dryers and bright lighting. Elevator service begins on the second floor, so some stairs are guaranteed. The central location is the budget hotel’s main assets–find shops, restaurants, and points of interest literally steps away. Please note: The neighboring building is undergoing renovation and affects the hotel. At time of reviewing, some walls and ceiling sections were being repaired. Pros: within walking distance of major sites; free Wi-Fi; friendly service. Cons: small beds with worn decor; tiny elevator that doesn’t go to ground floor; extremely narrow staircase. | Rooms from: €147 | 13 rue St-Roch, 1er, Louvre/Tuileries | 75001 | 01–42–60–15–62 | www.hotellondressthonore-paris.com | 24 rooms, 4 suites | Breakfast | Station: Pyramides.
Hôtel Louvre Sainte Anne.
HOTEL | Walk to major sites from this small, low-key property located between the Opéra and Louvre. Bright pastel rooms are decorated in a country theme and have little extras like heated towel racks and feather duvets. lPay 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, and exceptionally friendly staff can recommend plenty of noteworthy restaurants nearby. Pros: convenient location in central area; free Wi-Fi; helpful reception. Cons: very small rooms and dull decor; “Japanese district” can feel very un-Parisian; subterranean breakfast area slightly claustrophic. | Rooms from: €150 | 32 rue Ste-Anne, 1er, Louvre/Tuileries | 75001 | 01–40–20–02–35 | www.louvre-ste-anne.fr | 20 rooms | Breakfast | Station: Pyramides.
FAMILY | Fodor’s Choice | Hôtel Meurice.
HOTEL | The first Parisian palace hotel, where most rooms have a view on the Tuileries/Louvre or Sacré-Coeur, appeals to art history aficionados: contemporary sculpture, antique furnishings, and attractive murals are spread around the rooms, corridors, and sumptuous dining areas. Upon entering the majestic foyer, look for the oversize “frozen mirror” that beckons guests to interact with a gold-framed frost panel as an experiment in ethereal art. Since 1835 the Meurice has welcomed royalty and celebrities from the Duchess of Windsor to Salvador Dalí, who resided in the grande dame establishment every 6 months for 30 years. 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 outdoor terrace measuring nearly 3,000 square feet–the only one of its kind in Paris. 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. Even a premium pet service provides a VIP’s 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 beneath a colorful modern mural on a lively room. An added bonus is its proximity to neighboring Angelina’s—one of the city’s most historic salon du thé, famous for its hot cocoa and pastries. Pros: views over the Tuileries gardens; central location convenient to métro and major sites; trendy public spaces. Cons: popularity makes the public areas not very discreet; inconsistent front desk service at times unattentive; expensive room rates. | Rooms from: €720 | 228 rue de Rivoli, 1er, Louvre/Tuileries | 75001 | 01–44–58–10–09 | www.lemeurice.com | 118 rooms, 42 suites | Station: Tuileries, Concorde.
Hôtel Thérèse.
HOTEL | Tucked away from the traffic and pedestrian crowds of the Avenue de l’Opéra, Hotel Thérèse, named after the wife of the Sun King, Louis XIV, is a stone’s throw from regal sites like the Louvre and Palais-Royal, and the historic Comédie Française theater. Discreet with reasonable prices for the area, the recently renovated five-floor hotel offers plenty of updated old-world charm with its wrought-iron details, low ceilings, ambient lighting, contemporary furnishings, and amenities like flat-screen TVs, minibars, and personal safes. The “retro chic” design is noticeable when entering the elegant metallic patina and wood lobby, where you can sip an apéritif at the bar/lounge, browse the hotel’s custom-scented candles for sale, or chat with the young, friendly staff. Walk around the quarter—you’ll notice the congregation of Japanese restaurants, proximity to shops, and ease to access major tourist sites; the well-situated hotel attracts those who want to be in the middle of it all without the noise and pretentiousness of more trendy competitors. lFor more spacious accommodations, splurge on the Club or Executive category. Pros: excellent location on quiet street; free Wi-Fi; breakfast can be served in room. Cons: rooms are relatively small for price; breakfast dining area located in basement; no restaurant or gym. | Rooms from: €180 | 5/7 rue Thérèse, 1er, Louvre/Tuileries | 75001 | 01–42–96–10–01 | www.hoteltherese.com | 42 rooms | Breakfast | Station: Pyramides.
Le Konfidentiel.
HOTEL | Sleep beneath the pre-guillotined head of Marie-Antoinette or amid the turmoil of the revolution in one of the six individually themed rooms with special artwork. 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 customized furniture. The top floor Eiffel Tower duplex has its own little balcony overlooking rooftops right by the Louvre. The hidden restaurant in the 15th century cave serving elegant French cuisine is a superb deal, especially for lunch. Because it’s just steps from rue St Honoré, expect only a quick walk to major areas of interest and métro lines. Pros: located next to the Louvre; comfortable rooms; good restaurant. Cons: can feel a bit enclosed or exclusive; showers only, no tubs; unreliable Wi-Fi connection. | Rooms from: €300 | 64 rue de l’Arbre Sec, 1er, Louvre/Tuileries | 75001 | 01–55–34–40–40 | www.konfidentiel-paris.com | 6 suites | Breakfast | Station: Louvre Rivoli.
FAMILY | Renaissance Paris Vendôme.
HOTEL | Hiding behind a classic 19th-century facade is a fresh, contemporary six-floor hotel with subtle 1930s influences. Under a huge atrium skylight, the lobby’s polished black-marble floors, hardwood furnishings, neutral fabrics, and urban chic furnishings set the mood. The small library has free Wi-Fi and 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: as part of the Marriott group, hotel lacks authentic French character; public lounges at times noisy; hotel hosts business groups and events. | Rooms from: €399 | 4 rue du Mont Thabor, 1er, Louvre/Tuileries | 75001 | 01–40–20–20–00 | www.renaissanceparisvendome.com | 82 rooms, 15 suites | Breakfast | Station: Tuileries.
Opéra/Grands Boulevards
Golden Tulip Opera de Noailles.
HOTEL | With a nod to the work of postmodern designers like Putman and Starck, this stylized boutique hotel acquired by a French hotel chain conglomerate is both contemporary and cozy, and accessible to major monuments and museums. Rooms are sleek and streamlined, with backlit, custom-built cabinets, glassed-in bathrooms, and fabric or faux-leather wall coverings. A spacious outdoor terrace is off the breakfast lounge. Head to the bar area and lobby lounge for a predinner aperitif. lBook online to receive free breakfast. The hotel attracts business clientele and those seeking a good night’s sleep in a central location. A small fitness room and sauna also woo guests. Pros: free Wi-Fi; a block from the airport bus; easy 15- to 20-minute walk to the Louvre and Opéra. Cons: small elevator; no interesting views with location in business district; some bathrooms in need of renovation. | Rooms from: €255 | 9 rue de Michodière, 2e, Opéra/Grands Boulevards | 75002 | 01–47–42–92–90 | www.hoteldenoailles.com | 56 rooms | Breakfast | Station: Opéra.
Hôtel Banke.
HOTEL | Once a stately bank built in the early 20th century, this interesting hotel lies in the heart of the Opéra district, with its shops and theaters. The imposing red and gilded domed lobby now hosts an eclectic restaurant and tapas bar on either side, while rooms are more elegant and tasteful in design. Each one has customized furniture, parquet floors, marble or green mosaic bathrooms, and leather weave headboards. 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. Book a suite online for more space at discounted prices. Pros: great location; excellent service; 24 hour free Internet. Cons: pricey restaurant; cramped spa/gym; several blocks from the nearest métro. | Rooms from: €280 | 20 rue LaFayette, 9e, Opéra/Grands Boulevards | 75009 | 01–55–33–22–05 | www.derbyhotels.com/banke-hotel-paris | 76 rooms, 18 suites | 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, with basic but comfortable rooms that overlook the atmospheric Passage Jouffroy’s quaint toy shops and bookstores. Top floor rooms overlook the rooftops of Paris, but none face the busy nearby 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 cheapest). Pros: special location; close to major métro station; great nightlife district. Cons: thin walls; single rooms are very small; few amenities. | Rooms from: €114 | 10 bd. Montmartre, 46 passage Jouffroy, 9e, Opéra/Grands Boulevards | 75009 | 01–47–70–58–10 | www.hotelchopin.fr | 36 rooms | Breakfast | Station: Grands Boulevards.
Hôtel George Sand.
HOTEL | This family-run boutique hotel where the 19th-century writer George Sand once lived is fresh and modern, while preserving some original architectural details. Rooms have tea/coffeemakers and high-tech comforts such as complimentary high-speed Internet and cordless phones. Bathrooms are decked out in yacht-inspired wood flooring, with Etro toiletries. Pros: next door to two famous department stores; historic atmosphere; clean 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 | 75009 | 01–47–42–63–47 | www.hotelgeorgesand.com | 20 rooms | Breakfast | Station: Havre Caumartin.
Hôtel Gramont Opéra.
HOTEL | This elegant and friendly family-owned boutique hotel near the Opéra and historic department stores has lots of little extras that make it a great value. In addition to being able to access free Wi-Fi, guests can use the computer and printer in the lobby lounge, while helping themselves to complimentary beverages and light snacks. The decor is contemporary with classic touches like exposed wood beams in the tiny singles, Toile de Jouy wallpaper, and a feminine color palette of beige and aubergine. Rooms have open closets and only showers (no tubs) in the bathroom to save space. lBook a mini-suite or the duplex with terrace if you need more room to spread out. Expect personalized and professional service. Pros: good breakfast buffet with eggs to order; friendly staff; 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, Grands Boulevards | 75002 | 01–42–96–85–90 | www.hotel-gramont-opera.com | 22 rooms, 3 suites | Breakfast | Station: Quatre-Septembre.
Hôtel Langlois.
HOTEL | After starring in The Truth About Charlie (a remake of Charade), this darling hotel gained a reputation as one of the most atmospheric budget sleeps in the city. Rates have crept up, but the former circa-1870 bank retains its beautiful wood-paneled reception area for a period look between Art Deco and Art Nouveau. The individually decorated and spacious rooms are decked out with original glazed-tile fireplaces and antique art that make guests feel like they’ve stepped back in time. Some rooms, such as Nos. 15, 21, and 41, have enormous retro bathrooms for Paris standards. 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. TIP Breakfast can be served in-room at no extra cost. | Rooms from: €170 | 63 rue St-Lazare, 9e, Opéra/Grands Boulevards | 75009 | 01–48–74–78–24 | www.hotel-langlois.com | 24 rooms, 3 suites | Breakfast | Station: Trinité.
Hôtel Le Pradey.
HOTEL | Opened in 2011, this compact boutique hotel near the Tuileries pays homage to Parisian style, with rooms boasting themes such as Zinc and Haussmann Stone, with Michel Cluizel chocolates, Fragonard toiletries, and oil paintings of Paris. The suites are completely designed by Hermès on one floor, with a long terrace, and lingerie designer Chantal Thomass decorated the magnificently whimsical Cabaret Suite in tribute to Moulin Rouge and the Opéra Suite to bring out every girl’s inner ballerina. The lobby mezzanine is a comfy place to have 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 with lackluster service results in lukewarm welcome. | Rooms from: €390 | 5 rue St-Roch, Louvre/Tuileries | 75001 | 01–42–60–31–70 | www.lepradey.com | 21 rooms, 7 suites | Breakfast | Station: Tuileries.
Hôtel Queen Mary.
HOTEL | This cozy hotel is two blocks from Place de la Madeleine and Paris’s famous department stores. Plush carpeting and fabrics in burgundy and beige soften the regal architectural detailing and high ceilings. Rooms are handsomely appointed, with large beds and such thoughtful extras as trouser presses and Roger & Gallet toiletries. Guests mingle in the bar during happy hour and, in good weather, enjoy breakfast in the garden courtyard. Pros: close to high-end shopping streets and department stores; air-conditioning; extra-attentive service. Cons: some rooms are claustrophic; those on the ground floor and facing the street can be noisy; worn furnishings and decor can feel somewhat old-fashioned. | Rooms from: €219 | 9 rue Greffulhe, 8e, Opéra/Grands Boulevards | 75008 | 01–42–66–40–50 | www.hotelqueenmary.com | 36 rooms, 1 suite | Breakfast | Station: Madeleine, St-Lazare, Havre Caumartin.
FAMILY | Hôtel Vivienne.
HOTEL | The hotel’s central location near the Opéra Garnier and Grands Boulevards department stores make this a good bet for the price, even if the decor is a bit bipolar. There are two completely different room types: contemporary minimalist or classic floral fabrics with colonial furnishings. Room Nos. 39, 40, and 41 are blessed with large rooftop balconies. All rooms are equipped with flat-screen TVs and soundproof windows. Free wireless Internet and a Vélib bike rental station just outside the hotel add extra points. Pros: good value for central Paris; a block from the métro station; friendly service. Cons: a noisy street and late-night bar across the road can make it hard to keep windows open in summer; some rooms have minimal closet space and tiny showers; eclectic interior design is a hodgepodge of aesthetic style. TIP All children under 10 years stay free of charge when using existing bedding. Check website for special last-minute offers. | Rooms from: €100 | 40 rue Vivienne, 2e, Opéra/Grands Boulevards | 75002 | 01–42–33–13–26 | www.hotel-vivienne.com | 45 rooms, 35 with bath | Breakfast | Station: Bourse, Richelieu-Drouot.
Hôtel Westminster.
HOTEL | On one of the most prestigious streets in Paris, between the Opéra and Place Vendôme, this former inn was built in the mid-19th century and happily retains its Old World feel. The spacious air-conditioned rooms are decorated with period furniture, marble fireplaces, crystal chandeliers, and oil paintings. Duke’s piano bar is a pleasant, popular 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. Expect less than deluxe service and appointments compared to neighboring grande dame hotels; what you pay for is the hotel’s spot on prime Paris real estate. Pros: prestigious location central to major sites; good-value and promotional rates on the website; popular jazz bar. Cons: a bit too old-fashioned in decor; some views of air shaft and poor bathroom plumbing; Internet access isn’t free. | Rooms from: €320 | 13 rue de la Paix, 2e, Opéra/Grands Boulevards | 75002 | 01–42–61–57–46 | www.warwickwestminsteropera.com | 80 rooms, 22 suites | Breakfast | Station: Opéra.
La Maison Favart.
HOTEL | An honesty bar, a sauna, Internet access, a 24/7 concierge, and even an atmospheric indoor pool are part of the reason this new hotel is fast becoming a popular choice for travelers. Add reasonable rates for location, nouveau 18th century charm, good service, and beautifully decorated unique rooms, and it’s no wonder why the hotel named after the founders of the Comic Opera pleases guests who demand discreet elegance and creature comforts like iPod docking stations, Toile de Jouy coverings, refined designer fabrics, and period furnishings. Pros: lovely rooms and interior design with modern interpretation of traditional style; spacious, chic bathrooms; central location within walking distance to sites. Cons: flavor-of-the-day means high demand for best rooms; impractical use of space in some rooms and bathrooms; no spa. | Rooms from: €290 | 5 rue de Marivaux, Grands Boulevards | 75001 | 01–42–97–59–83 | www.lamaisonfavart.com | 37 rooms | Breakfast | Station: Quatre Septembre.
Meliá Vendome Boutique Hotel.
HOTEL | Centrally located in a prestigious quarter a few minutes’ walk from the Tuileries gardens, Place de la Concorde, Louvre, and Garnier Opera House, the Melia Vendome has handsome and spacious rooms in attractive contemporary tones to exude an understated elegance in warm woods and textural fabrics. Free wireless Internet, air-conditioning, minibar, and satellite TV 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: outstanding location smack-dab in city center; near shops, transportation, and major sites; elegant, immaculate rooms. Cons: expensive breakfast; no spa or pool; in-room cooling system unreliable. | Rooms from: €408 | 8 rue Cambon, Around the Louvre | 75001 | 01–44–77–54–00 | www.melia.com | 78 rooms, 5 suites | Breakfast | Station: Concorde, Madeleine.
Fodor’s Choice | Park Hyatt Paris Vendôme.
HOTEL | Understated luxury with a contemporary Zen vibe differentiates this Hyatt from its more classic neighbors between the 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 cool vibe in the rooms extends to the Japanese-inspired spa-like baths, underfloor heating, and spacious dressing area. Spa treatments feature French Carita products, and the entire hotel is Wi-Fi accessible. Head to the Pur with its open kitchen opening up to the dining room rotunda. Enjoy an afternoon tea in La Cheminée or after-hours cocktail in artsy Le Bar. Pros: the latest hotel technology and stylish urban chic design; spa suites; gastronomic restaurants. Cons: as part of the Hyatt chain, it can feel anonymous; many corporate events held on-site; expensive room rates. | Rooms from: €730 | 3–5 rue de la Paix, 2e, Opéra/Grands Boulevards | 75002 | 01–58–71–12–34 | www.paris.vendome.hyatt.com | 132 rooms, 36 suites | Breakfast | Station: Concorde, Opéra.
Saint James Paris.
HOTEL | Upon entering the stone gateway, you’ll go around a beautiful fountain into a grand foyer—all part of the historical renovated 19th-century mansion that feels like a chateau nested in the heart of the busy metropolis. A quick 20-minute walk gets you to L’Arc de Triomphe. To reach the most famous avenue in the world (which begins at the Arc), head down Avenue Foch, one of the widest city streets lined with prestigious apartments. The hotel itself, belonging to the Relais & Chateaux collection of premium hotels, is decorated in sumptuous fabrics, antiques, and period furnishings. A spa, free wireless, and what is probably the city’s most glorious hotel staircases forge a loyal following of happy guests and locals who enjoy a clubby, upscale atmosphere day and night. 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: €340 | 43 av. Bugeaud, Champs-Élysées | 75116 | 01–44–05–81–81 | www.saint-james-paris.com | 48 rooms | Breakfast | Station: Porte Dauphine, Victor Hugo, Rue de la Pompe.
Fodor’s Choice | W Paris-Opera.
HOTEL | Cutting-edge design and signature contemporary concepts have built a loyal following of trendsetting creative types for the W brand—a porfolio of unique urban retreats managed by the Starwood Group. Located near the Garnier Opera House in central Paris, 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 fabric, 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 quirky silhouette-like illustrations in the lobby and 24-hour gym. The lively lobby lounge has 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. Head to the SWEAT fitness center to work out with fellow fashionistas. Pros: coveted location in historic 19th-century building; excellent restaurant; brand-new rooms with comfortable beds. Cons: fee for Wi-Fi; rooms and public spaces feel claustrophobic; light switches are confusing. | Rooms from: €450 | 4 rue Meyerbeer, Opéra/Grands Boulevards | 75009 | 01/7748–9494 | www.wparisopera.com | 91 rooms | No meals | Station: Chaussée d’Antin–La Fayette.
Montmartre
Ermitage Hôtel Sacré Coeur.
HOTEL | It’s definitely a hike from the nearest métro, but this family-run hotel in a Napoléon III–era building is friendly and filled with mirrored armoires, chandeliers, and other antiques. There’s a private terrace for the two ground-level rooms, and all rooms have old-fashioned flowery decor. The building is only two stories high, and the highest-tech item is the fax machine. Pros: family-run atmosphere; charming Parisian neighborhood; quiet district. Cons: not close to the métro station; no online reservations or credit cards accepted; no facilities or Internet. | Rooms from: €105 | 24 rue Lamarck, 18e, Montmartre | 75018 | 01–42–64–79–22 | www.ermitagesacrecoeur.fr | 11 rooms | No credit cards | Breakfast | Station: Lamarck Caulaincourt.
Hôtel Eldorado.
HOTEL | The unpretentious Eldorado, just west of Montmartre, is perfect for guests who are happy lying low without room phones, TVs, or an elevator, although free Wi-Fi is now available. Each room has its individual distressed-chic charms—leopard spots and zebra stripes, knickknacks from Africa and the Far East, flea-market antiques, and club chairs. Many rooms face the garden courtyard, where artsy 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: budget decor with eclectic character; leafy garden courtyard; hipster locals’ hangout. Cons: far from the center of Paris; no amenities; courtyard can be noisy in summer. | Rooms from: €85 | 18 rue des Dames, 17e, Montmartre | 75017 | 01–45–22–35–21 | www.eldoradohotel.fr | 33 rooms, 23 with bath | Breakfast | Station: Place de Clichy.
Hôtel Particulier de Montmartre.
HOTEL | There are no obvious outside signs indicating that this elegant mansion surrounded by gardens is anything but a private residence. Indeed, this hotel was a family home until 2007, when two Parisians from the contemporary art world turned it into an exclusive B&B. You enter through a cobblestone passage buzzing at the black gate for the door to open. Inside, the lobby is decorated like the rooms, with a mix of contemporary artwork and antiques. Each of the spacious suites has a different theme, and each is decorated by a different artist; the results range from modern minimalist to cozy and classic. Though service could use improvement, and prices are as steep as the Montmartre hills for room rates and breakfast, those seeking something off-the-beaten track may find this unique and beautiful property ideal. The secluded locale and one-of-a-kind setting makes one feel privvy to an insider’s secret. lTry the popular weekend brunch at 36€ per person, Saturday and Sunday from noon to 3pm. Pros: absolute quiet; feels like you’re in a private Parisian home; designer amenities. Cons: very inconvenient to public transport, major sites, and shopping districts; service can be slow in restaurant; expensive room rates. | Rooms from: €490 | 23 av. Junot, 18e, Montmartre | 75018 | 01–53–41–81–40 | www.hotel-particulier-montmartre.com | 5 suites | Breakfast | Station: Lamarck Caulaincourt.
Hôtel Regyn’s Montmartre.
HOTEL | Location, location, location—many book this tiny Regyn’s for the out-of-Amélie Place des Abbesses, one of the most well-known spots in the city. They’re also pleased to find bright, warm colors, and rooms with simple bathrooms, hair dryers, and radios. lAsk to stay on 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; tiny elevator. | Rooms from: €122 | 18 pl. des Abbesses, 18e, Montmartre | 75018 | 01–42–54–45–21 | www.hotel-regyns-paris.com | 22 rooms | Breakfast | Station: Abbesses.
The Marais
Hôtel Bourg Tibourg.
HOTEL | Scented candles and subdued lighting announce designer-du-jour Jacques Garcia’s mix of harem-like romance and Gothic contemplation. Royal-blue paint and red velvet line the claustrophobic halls, and Byzantine alcoves hold mosaic-tile tubs. 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. A pocket garden has room for three tables, leafy plants, and a swath of stars above. Free Wi-Fi, iPad and DVD loan service, and B&O flat screen TV add to creature comforts. Pros: right in the heart of trendy Marais district; adequate rooms at moderate prices; great nightlife district. Cons: rooms are small, poorly lighted, and ill equipped for those with large suitcases; no hotel restaurant; lounge area small and gets easily crowded. | Rooms from: €250 | 19 rue Bourg Tibourg, 4e, Marais | 75004 | 01–42–78–47–39 | www.hotelbourgtibourg.com | 29 rooms, 1 suite | Breakfast | Station: Hôtel de Ville.
Hôtel Caron.
HOTEL | On a relatively quiet Marais side street, this contemporary boutique bed-and-breakfast is petite with 18 small rooms in black, gray, and lime green (eight recently renovated), but many thoughtful freebies keep the property as accommodating as bigger hotels. Welcoming service, wireless Internet access, movies on demand on flat-screen TVs, and all of the alcohol-free beverages in the minibar are included. A breakfast buffet is served in the historic vaulted wine cellar or in-room on request. Air-conditioning and 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. lCheck online for seasonal discounted room rates. Pros: excellent location in center of Paris; L’Occitane toiletries; friendly staff. Cons: only enough room for small suitcases; no hotel restaurant or bar; tight space in bathrooms (some only with showers). TIP Do not confuse with the more traditional Hotel Caron de Beaumarchais, also located in the Marais. | Rooms from: €245 | 3 rue Caron, Marais | 75004 | 01–40–29–02–94 | www.hotelcaron.com | 18 rooms | Breakfast | Station: St-Paul.
Hôtel Caron de Beaumarchais.
HOTEL | For that traditional French feeling, book a room at this intimate, romantic hotel with 19 affordable rooms—the theme is the work of former next-door neighbor Pierre-Augustin Caron de Beaumarchais, supplier of military aid to American revolutionaries and 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 Wi-Fi. Request the larger front-side rooms 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 in easy walking distance to major monuments. Cons: small rooms with no major facilities; busy street of bars and cafés can be noisy; historic charm may feel old-fashioned and outdated for younger crowd. | Rooms from: €165 | 12 rue Vieille-du-Temple, 4e, Marais | 75004 | 01–42–72–34–12 | www.carondebeaumarchais.com | 19 rooms | Breakfast | Station: Hôtel de Ville.
Hôtel de la Bretonnerie.
HOTEL | Situated in a 17th-century hôtel particulier (town house) on a tiny street in the Marais, this small hotel with exposed wooden beams and traditional styling is a few minutes’ walk from the Centre Pompidou and 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 resemble little apartments with separate sleeping and dining areas. Overall, the establishment is impeccably clean with a welcoming staff. A classic French breakfast is served in the vaulted cellar. Pros: central location and comfortable decor at a moderate price; typical Parisian character; free Wi-Fi Internet. Cons: quality and size of the rooms vary greatly; no air-conditioning; rooms facing street can be noisy. TIP Ask for rooms facing interior courtyard for a quieter sleep. | Rooms from: €179 | 22 rue Ste-Croix-de-la-Bretonnerie, 4e, Marais | 75004 | 01–48–87–77–63 | www.bretonnerie.com | 22 rooms, 7 suites | Breakfast | Station: Hôtel de Ville.
Hôtel de la Place des Vosges.
HOTEL | Despite a lack of amenities and Lilliputian elevator that doesn’t serve all floors, a loyal clientele swears by this small, historic hotel just off the 17th-century Place des Vosges. 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. Rooms, all renovated in late 2011, have modern if tiny, tiled bathrooms and new bedding. Many still have their historic beams and stone walls. The lone top-floor room, the hotel’s largest, has a Jacuzzi and view over Right Bank rooftops. Other rooms are considerably smaller but cheaper. Fans are provided in summer. Internet is available but not reliable. Pros: excellent location near famous sites and public transportation; fans on request; historic Old World ambience. Cons: no air-conditioning; most rooms are very small; street-facing rooms can be noisy. | Rooms from: €110 | 12 rue de Birague, 4e, Marais | 75004 | 01–42–72–60–46 | www.hotelplacedesvosges.com | 16 rooms | Breakfast | Station: Bastille.
Hôtel Duo.
HOTEL | For this hotel in the heart of the trendy Marais district, architect Jean Philippe Nuel was commissioned to design a clean, contemporary style with bold colors and dramatic lighting; some rooms have the original 16th-century beams integrated into the decor, but the overall feel is casual urban chic. Amenities include a small fitness area, a sauna, and a 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 street; service not always delivered with a smile; small standard rooms and bathrooms. TIP Ask for an upper floor room to avoid street noise. | Rooms from: €240 | 11 rue du Temple, 4e, Marais | 75004 | 01–42–72–72–22 | www.duoparis.com | 58 rooms | Breakfast | Station: Hôtel de Ville.
Hôtel Jeanne-d’Arc.
HOTEL | You can get your money’s worth at this hotel for its unbeatable location off the 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, and the recently renovated rooms are well maintained, with tiled bathrooms and cheery, if somewhat mismatched, colors (some rooms facing the back are more muted). Expect basic accommodations and breakfast. 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 sites; good value for the Marais; lots of drinking and dining options nearby. Cons: garbage trucks and late-night revelers on the square after midnight can be noisy; minimal amenities; rooms are small with dreary decor and not air-conditioned. | Rooms from: €96 | 3 rue de Jarente, 4e, Marais | 75004 | 01–48–87–62–11 | www.hoteljeannedarc.com | 35 rooms | Station: St-Paul.
Fodor’s Choice | Hôtel Jules & Jim.
HOTEL | Opened in December 2011, this contemporary hotel in the less-traveled corner of an up-and-coming part of the trendy Marais district feels almost like an art gallery. The facade is barely noticeable, but behind it are three buildings around a historic courtyard housing different room types. The futuristic “Hi-Mac” rooms are encased in a sort of white plastic cocoon with adjustible lighting, and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the rooftops of Paris; room 81 has a terrace with views of Sacré-Coeur Basilica. Compact rooms are generally minimalist with sleek dark wood furnishings, polished concrete bathrooms, queen-size beds, and bathrooms with separate toilets and spacious walk-in showers with oversized “rainwater” showerheads. The stylish bar in the building at the back of the courtyard is open for breakfast and evenings from 5 to 11 pm and attracts fashionable locals. Pros: bright and modern; stylish design with Molton Brown toiletries; location close to public transportation. Cons: the small “Jules” rooms are best for those traveling light or only staying a night; no restaurant; street full of wholesale shops closed to the public. | Rooms from: €220 | 11 rue des Gravilliers, Marais | 75003 | 01–42–78–10–01 | www.hoteljulesetjim.com | 21 rooms, 2 duplexes | Breakfast | Station: Arts-et-métiers.
Pavillon de la Reine.
HOTEL | This enchanting countrylike château is hidden off the regal Place des Vosges behind a stunning garden courtyard. Gigantic beams, chunky stone pillars, original oils, and a weathered fireplace speak to the building’s 1612 origins. The hotel has large doubles, duplexes, and suites decorated in either contemporary or 18th-century-style wall fabrics. Many rooms look out on the entry court or an interior Japanese-inspired garden. Designer toiletries by Molton Brown, bathrobes, and modern bathrooms add to the luxurious feel. Stay connected with wireless Internet. Pros: Parisian historic character; proximity to Place des Vosges without the noise; Carita spa treatments. Cons: expensive for the Marais and the size of the rooms; the nearest métro is a few blocks away; no uniform theme in interior design. | Rooms from: €410 | 28 pl. des Vosges, 3e, Marais | 75003 | 01–40–29–19–19, 800/447–7462 in U.S. | www.pavillon-de-la-reine.com | 31 rooms, 23 suites | Breakfast | Station: Bastille, St-Paul.
Eastern Paris
Bastille
Hôtel Bastille de Launay.
HOTEL | The no-frills decoration might seem too spartan at first, but this boutique hotel offers decent comfort, modern amenities like free Wi-Fi and the perfect location a few blocks from the regal Place des Vosges. Each cozy room is calm and quiet with extremely 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. lAsk about king-size beds if you really want to splurge. Pros: homestyle proportions; attentive service; reasonably spacious for the neighborhood. Cons: tiny elevator; some rooms small; basic and compact bathrooms. | Rooms from: €192 | 42 rue Amelot, 11e, Bastille | 75011 | 01–47–00–88–11 | www.bastilledelaunay-hotel-paris.com | 36 rooms | Breakfast | Station: Chemin Vert.
Hôtel Mama Shelter.
HOTEL | The heir to the Club Med empire decided to do for the hotel industry what jeans did for fashion: democratize style. Opened in 2008 in the up-and-coming 20e district close to Père Lachaise, this hotel is large for Paris standards, with a fun and funky interior designed by Philippe Starck. Rooms are stylishly low-lighted, with kitchenette and microwave, Kiehl’s toiletries, and wireless Internet via flat-screen TVs; many have huge balconies. The spacious restaurant-bar-lounge with loud multimedia, foosball table, and glow-light bar is open to the public and attracts an international mix of hip youth. Check out a live band at the popular Fleche d’Or nightclub across the street; Roissy-CDG airport is a quick drive away with the périphérique nearby. lWant to splurge? The largest Mama Suite is a spacious 375 square feet and features a 27-inch iMac with TV supplemented by a 54-inch Samsung LED TV—the perfect place to act like an overgrown kid. Don’t expect an ounce of classical Parisian charm—the hotel is an experiment in quirky postmodern countercultural cool. Room rates reflect the working class surroundings. Pros: trendy design without designer prices; easy access to airport; entertainment center in each room. Cons: off-the-beaten track in remote part of Paris; club across the street can be noisy; extremely inconvenient and far from major sites and main districts. | Rooms from: €159 | 109 rue de Bagnolet, 20e, Bastille | 75020 | 01–43–48–48–48 | www.mamashelter.com | 172 rooms | 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. The Art Deco 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 post-modern Philippe Starck furniture. Pros: historic building; easy walk to the Marais and Bastille; all rooms face garden courtyard. Cons: often booked by groups; big difference between room decor and public areas; some rooms in these odd, old buildings have a pillar in the center and look worn. | Rooms from: €269 | 74 rue Amelot, 11e, Bastille | 75011 | 01–40–21–20–00 | www.homeplazza.com | 205 rooms, 58 suites | Breakfast | Station: St-Sébastien-Froissart.
Standard Design Hôtel.
HOTEL | For those in search of an ultra-contemporary hotel in the alternative hipster corner of the Bastille district, head to the Standard Design that is anything but standard. Its sleek black 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 black duvets, flat-screen TVs, and white lacquered furnishings. A bright breakfast room is on the top floor. Massage and manicures are available in the guest rooms. Pros: friendly service; personalized gift packs available (features are constantly changing—maybe flowers, or breakfast, or a massage; you get a choice of three); funky shopping and nightlife district. Cons: street noise; some rooms very small; interior design lacks traditional Parisian charm. | Rooms from: €175 | 29 rue des Taillandiers, 11e, Bastille | 75011 | 01–48–05–30–97 | www.standard-hotel.com | 36 rooms | Breakfast | Station: Bastille.
Canal St-Martin
Fodor’s Choice | Hôtel Taylor.
HOTEL | Tucked away on a tiny one-way street between République and the Canal St. Martin, the Hôtel Taylor offers spacious, clean rooms at an affordable price in the edgy 10e arrondissement. Rooms painted in contemporary neutral tones are decorated with light wood furnishings, pastel fabrics, and plush mattresses. Upscale Morabito toiletries are provided in the bathroom with a flat-screen TV, coffee machine, and dresser to store belongings to make your stay extra cozy. Although no facilities are offered, the location is heavenly for those who want to keep off the beaten track next to the Canal and Marais neighborhoods; the nearby métro hub keeps the city accessible. Pros: close to the métro; wireless Internet available; breakfast can be served in room. Cons: bathrooms need refurbishment; street can seem intimidating at night in still-gentrifying neighborhood; some rooms worn and in need of renovation. | Rooms from: €160 | 6 rue Taylor, 10e, Canal St-Martin | 75010 | 01–42–40–11–01 | www.paris-hotel-taylor.com | 37 rooms | Breakfast | Station: République.
Fodor’s Choice | Le Citizen Hôtel.
HOTEL | Minimalist cool decor, complimentary iPad use for duration of stay, and direct views over the historic Canal St-Martin make the three-year-old Citizen a great choice for those interested in checking out the hip, East-Paris vibe close to the Marais. The focus is “green” and urban, with creative use of modern design elements like light wood and ambient lighting to make the most of small spaces. That said, all but the tiniest “City” rooms are quite spacious for Paris, with high-quality walk-in showers, Omnisens toiletries, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and coffee/tea machines for a homestyle-feel. Views over the Canal St. Martin are lovely, but light sleepers may need to use the thoughtfully provided ear plugs for the active nightlife in the vicinity. The Zen apartment is large enough to accommodate a family four quite comfortably. Pros: trendy neighborhood far from major tourist areas; all-inclusive breakfast and gourmet minibar snacks; friendly, attentive staff. Cons: smallest rooms are best for one person or short stays; noisy street; about 20 minutes by métro to the main tourist sites. | Rooms from: €199 | 96 quai de Jemmapes, Canal St-Martin | 75010 | 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 84-year-old Hotel du Nord et de l’Est near the Place de la Republique is equipped with a new iPad terminal downloaded with several applications to take room service and invoice requests, set wake-up calls, or provide information for Paris sites. Other amenities include updated air-conditioned rooms, personal safes, Wi-Fi access, flat-screen TVs, and a tranquil interior courtyard. Although decor is a bit dated, the welcoming and personalized service, provided by third-generation hoteliers, makes up for it. Pros: located near Marais and trendy urban districts; accommodates families; no-smoking rooms. Cons: neighborhood can be noisy; uninspired decor; basic bathrooms. | Rooms from: €145 | 49 rue de Malte, République | 75011 | 01–47–00–71–70 | www.hotel-nord-est.com | 45 rooms | Breakfast | Station: République.
Hôtel Palma.
HOTEL | Just down the street from Père Lachaise Cemetery, and a block from the Place de Gambetta, 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 recently renovated rooms are spacious and simple, with modern wood paneling accenting a violet and green color scheme. Extras include air-conditioning and flat-screen TV. With budget prices, this small, clean 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: breakfast served in room; very close to métro; inexpensive rates. Cons: far from city center; lacks Parisian charm; no wireless Internet available to access email (free computer at reception only accesses hotel website and basic search engine). | Rooms from: €100 | Angle 2 rue des Gâtines,77 av. Gambetta, 20e, République | 75020 | 01–46–36–13–65 | www.hotelparis20.fr | 32 rooms | Station: Gambetta.
Hôtel Résidence Alhambra.
HOTEL | The white facade, rear garden, and flower-filled window boxes brighten this lesser-known neighborhood between the Marais and Rue Oberkampf. Rooms are on the small side (splurge for a triple for €135) with run-of-the-mill floral bedspreads and drapes. Some overlook the refurbished courtyard landscaped with seasonal flowers and shrubs. You’ll stay well-connected with both 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 room rates. Cons: small doubles with dated decor; long walk to the center of town; no air-conditioning. | Rooms from: €92 | 13 rue de Malte, 11e, République | 75011 | 01–47–00–35–52 | www.hotelalhambra.fr | 58 rooms | Breakfast | 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 common areas, though 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. The fifth- and sixth-floor rooms facing the street have balconies with chimney-pot views to the west. One of the hotel’s suites has a bathtub planted in the middle of the bedroom. Friendly service, a small fitness center, and full-service bar are nice touches, while close proximity to métro stations is another convenience appreciated by guests. Pros: high design; iPod docks; Nespresso coffeemaker in rooms; in popular nightlife district. Cons: noisy neighborhood; not within easy walking distance of major tourist sites; basic breakfast. | Rooms from: €225 | 5–7 rue Rampon, 11e, République | 75011 | 01–47–00–41–57 | www.legeneralhotel.com | 43 rooms, 3 suites | Breakfast | Station: République, Oberkampf.
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. Be sure to request a room that was refurbished; a recent renovation of more than half the guest rooms brings an affordable, simple elegance to this establishment that prides itself on 24/7 reception service, free Wi-Fi, elevators, hair dryers, and free newspapers. In warmer weather, if you’d like to open your windows, reserve a room overlooking the indoor patio to avoid loud street noise. The busy neighborhood is what you’d expect for close proximity to a major railway hub; nevertheless, 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; 100% smoke-free establishment; friendly multilingual staff. Cons: noisy street; unattractive neighborhood; some rooms still need renovation; pricey breakfast. | Rooms from: €200 | 13 rue du 8 Mai 1945, 10e, République | 75010 | 01–40–35–94–14 | www.hotelfrancais.com | 70 rooms | No meals | Station: Gare de l’Est.
Latin Quarter
The Five Hôtel.
HOTEL | Small is beautiful at this original tiny design hotel on a quiet street near the Mouffetard market and Latin Quarter. Boudoir-like rooms combine high-tech features such as fiber-optic fairy lights above the beds and in the bathrooms, fluffy duvet comforters, original Chinese lacquer artworks, and 400 satellite channels on flat-screen TVs. All rooms have free Wi-Fi and L’Occitane toiletries; the ground-floor suite has a private Jacuzzi 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 stylish 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: €225 | 3 rue Flatters, 5e, Latin Quarter | 75005 | 01–43–31–74–21 | www.thefivehotel.com | 24 rooms | Breakfast | Station: Les 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 six-floor, family-run hotel. Rooms convey a less elaborate, more streamlined aesthetic than the lobby and are relatively quiet owing to the side-street location. Number 62, on the top floor, costs a bit more but has a small balcony with superb views. Pros: walking distance to major Rive Gauche sights, the islands, and restaurants; free Wi-Fi; ceiling fans. Cons: big difference between renovated and unrenovated rooms; no air-conditioning; thin walls between rooms. | Rooms from: €110 | 7 rue Thénard, 5e, Latin Quarter | 75005 | 01–43–26–78–36 | www.hotelcdf.com | 29 rooms | Breakfast | Station: Maubert-Mutualité, St-Michel, Cluny, La Sorbonne.
Hôtel du Lys.
HOTEL | To jump into an inexpensive Parisian fantasy, just climb the stairway to your room (there’s no elevator) 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 it’s 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 is decidedly outdated; perfunctory service, no air-conditioning. | Rooms from: €145 | 23 rue Serpente, 6e, Latin Quarter | 75006 | 01–43–26–97–57 | www.hoteldulys.com | 22 rooms | Breakfast | Station: St-Michel, Odéon.
FAMILY | Fodor’s Choice | Hôtel Familia.
HOTEL | Owners Eric and Sylvie continue to update and improve this popular budget hotel without raising their prices. They’ve added custom-made wood furniture from Brittany, new carpeting, and antique tapestries and prints on the walls. The second and fifth floors have balconies (some with views of Notre-Dame), and all rooms are perfectly soundproofed from traffic below. Ask for the Quadruple room if traveling en famille. Pros: attentive, friendly service; great value; lots of character and charm. Cons: on a busy street; some rooms are small; noise between rooms can be loud. | Rooms from: €112 | 11 rue des Écoles, 5e, Latin Quarter | 75005 | 01–43–54–55–27 | www.hotel-paris-familia.com | 30 rooms | Breakfast | Station: Cardinal Lemoine.
Hôtel Grandes Écoles.
HOTEL | Distributed among a trio of three-story buildings, Madame Le Floch’s rooms have a distinct grandmotherly vibe with flowery wallpaper and lace bedspreads, but are downright spacious for this part of Paris. Guests enter the country-style domain through two massive wooden doors. The Grandes Écoles is legendary for its cobbled interior courtyard and garden, which becomes the second living room and a perfect breakfast spot, weather permitting. Rooms in the “garden” wing are coolest in summer. Modern touches include wireless Internet, room service, and personal safe. Pros: pretty courtyard garden; close to Latin Quarter nightlife spots; good value. Cons: uphill walk from the métro; some noisy rooms; few amenities. | Rooms from: €150 | 75 rue du Cardinal Lemoine, 5e, Latin Quarter | 75005 | 01–43–26–79–23 | www.hotel-grandes-ecoles.com | 51 rooms | Breakfast | Station: Cardinal Lemoine.
FAMILY | Hôtel Henri IV Rive Gauche.
HOTEL | From the ashes of the legendary dive bar Polly Magoo rose this charming hotel; it’s 50 paces from Notre-Dame and the Seine. The identical, impeccable rooms have beige and rose blossom–print 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. (Note: Don’t confuse this with other Henri IV hotels in the area.) Pros: elegant, comfortable decor; central location close to major sights and RER station; friendly 24/7 reception staff. Cons: on a busy street full of late-night bars; single rooms are small; room furnishings and conditions showing age. | Rooms from: €215 | 9 rue St-Jacques, 5e, Latin Quarter | 75005 | 01–46–33–20–20 | www.henri-paris-hotel.com | 23 rooms | Breakfast | 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: €129 | 8 rue Philippe de Champagne, 13e, Latin Quarter | 75013 | 01–45–35–45–25 | www.hotel-la-manufacture.com | 57 rooms | Breakfast | Station: Place d’Italie.
FAMILY | Hôtel Le Vert Galant.
HOTEL | In a little-known neighborhood west of Place d’Italie awaits a sincere welcome from Madame Laborde, the proprietress at this plain but proper hotel that encloses 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 (open Tuesday–Saturday). Pros: quiet location with a garden; kitchenettes in some rooms; safe residential district. Cons: not very central; no air-conditioning; some noise between rooms. | Rooms from: €130 | 43 rue Croulebarbe, 13e, Latin Quarter | 75013 | 01–44–08–83–50 | www.vertgalant.com | 15 rooms | Breakfast | 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. Number 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 and space for four guests. There’s no elevator, but colorful murals of Parisian scenes decorate the winding stairwell. The shabby-chic 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; popular locals’ restaurant. Cons: no air-conditioning; street noise; no elevator. | Rooms from: €170 | 10 rue des Grands Degrés, 5e, Latin Quarter | 75005 | 01–55–42–88–88 | www.lesdegreshotel.com | 10 rooms | Breakfast | Station: Maubert-Mutualité.
FAMILY | Hôtel Marignan.
HOTEL | Not to be confused with the hotel of the same name near the Champs-Élysées, this Latin Quarter Marignan lies squarely between budget-basic and youth hostel (no TVs or elevator) and offers lots of communal conveniences—a fully stocked kitchen, free laundry machines, and copious tourist information. Paul Keniger, the energetic third-generation owner, has cultivated a convivial atmosphere for independent international travelers. Recently renovated rooms are modest (some sleep four or five) but generally large, and bathrooms are clean. It’s a good choice for families. The least expensive rooms share toilets and/or showers. Pros: great value for the location; free kitchen, breakfast, and laundry facilities; free Wi-Fi. Cons: no elevator; room phones take only incoming calls; has a youth-hostel atmosphere. | Rooms from: €115 | 13 rue du Sommerard, 5e, Latin Quarter | 75005 | 01–43–54–63–81 | www.hotel-marignan.com | 30 rooms, 12 with bath | Breakfast | 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 stairs, this unique boutique hotel overlooking Notre-Dame Cathedral and Seine River is for you. Located one steep flight of stairs up from the busy Latin Quarter streets, this hotel is a kaleidescope of colors and fabrics, with historic, artistic and fashion scenes screened onto the walls. Carpets are made to look like cobble stones or wood parquet. The duplex rooms have more space and bathtubs, but tiny windows. Corner rooms such as #52 and 32 have large windows with the best views. Some of the original wooden beams from the 17th-century building are incorporated into the decor. Room 25 has a horrid view of the air shaft, so an extrawide TV screen with a live video feed of Notre Dame has been added as a real-time “window.” No minibars (there’s a bar in the lobby), but every room has luxurious bedding, iHome docking stations and extra large showers. Pros: decor by Christian Lacroix; views of Notre-Dame and river; comfortable beds. Cons: stairs can be tricky with large bags; no minibar in rooms; some noise from busy street. | Rooms from: €270 | 1 quai Saint-Michel, Latin Quarter | 75005 | 01–43–54–20–43 | www.hotelnotredameparis.com | 26 rooms | Breakfast | Station: St-Michel.
FAMILY | Hôtel Résidence Henri IV.
HOTEL | This small Latin Quarter 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 here have molded ceilings, marble mantelpieces, and kitchenettes equipped with two-burner stoves, dorm-size fridges, sinks, and basic dishware. 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 Parisian experience. Pros: kitchenettes; close to Latin Quarter sights and restaurants; charming interior decor. Cons: closest métro is a few blocks away; some rooms on smaller side; Old World charm may feel dated. | Rooms from: €260 | 50 rue des Bernadins, 5e, Latin Quarter | 75005 | 01–44–41–31–81 | www.residencehenri4.com | 8 rooms, 5 apartments | Breakfast | Station: Maubert-Mutualité.
Hotel Résidence Les Gobelins.
HOTEL | Simple furnishings and sunny colors warm up this small hotel, renovated a few years ago. On a quiet side street between Place d’Italie and the Latin Quarter, the hotel is not far from the famous market street Mouffetard and just behind its namesake—the historic tapesty factory Manufacture des Gobelins. Some rooms overlook a small flower-filled garden, as does the lounge–breakfast room. Jamaican expat Jennifer Poirier runs the Résidence with her French husband, Philippe. Their wholehearted welcome is a big part of this hotel’s draw. Pros: close to major métro and bus lines; friendly owners; near shops and cafés. Cons: 20-minute walk to the center of Paris; few amenities with basic decor; no air-conditioning. | Rooms from: €98 | 9 rue des Gobelins, 13e, Latin Quarter | 75013 | 01–47–07–26–90 | www.hotelgobelins.com | 32 rooms | Breakfast | Station: Les Gobelins.
Hôtel Saint Jacques.
HOTEL | Nearly every wall in this bargain Latin Quarter hotel is bedecked with faux-marble and trompe-l’oeil murals. As in many old, independent Paris hotels, each room is unique, but a general 19th-century theme of Second Empire furnishings and paintings dominates, with a Montmartre cabaret atmosphere in the new 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 25 has a long, around-the-corner 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: very busy street makes it too noisy to open windows in summer; thin walls between rooms; rooms need refurbishment. | Rooms from: €168 | 35 rue des Écoles, 5e, Latin Quarter | 75005 | 01–44–07–45–45 | www.hotel-saintjacques.com | 38 rooms | Station: Maubert-Mutualité.
Hotel Seven.
HOTEL | The “seven” refers to the level of heaven you’ll find at this extraordinary boutique hotel. A team of creative designers and artists have created seven magnificent suites with imaginative themes like Alice in Wonderland, James Bond, Marie-Antoinette, Black Diamond, and the Lovez-Vous, which has a private Jacuzzi. Standard rooms also break the rules with plexiglass bathrooms and furnishings, “levitating beds,” and “starry” ceilings embedded with fiber-optic lights that make even the smallest rooms seem like, well, heavenly. Pros: fun design elements; copious breakfast buffet; quiet location near Mouffetard market street; interesting wine bar and cocktail selection at night. Cons: small closet space; several blocks to closest métro; expensive room rates with few amenities. | Rooms from: €340 | 20 rue Berthollet, 5e, Latin Quarter | 75005 | 01–43–31–47–52 | www.sevenhotelparis.com | 28 rooms, 7 suites | Station: Censier-Daubentin.
Hotel Sorbonne.
HOTEL | For what French students pay to study at the Sorbonne, visitors can stay a few nights next door at this swanky design hotel. (Tuition is inexpensive.) Don’t spend too much time reading the prose on the hallway carpets or admiring each floor’s photo collection featuring, among other things, staff member’s family members, because the numerous Latin Quarter sites like the Sorbonne across the street can’t be beat. The rooms can be rather small, with a large, albeit plush bed taking up much of the space. Each colorful, yet tasteful room also comes with a Mac, which doubles as a TV. Pros: centrally located; fun decor; attentive service. Cons: tiny rooms for the price; small breakfast room; leaky plumbing. | Rooms from: €240 | 6 rue Victor Cousin, 5e, Latin Quarter | 75005 | 01–43–54–01–52 | www.hotelsorbonne.com | 38 rooms | Breakfast | Station: Cluny, La Sorbonne.
Les Jardins du Luxembourg.
HOTEL | Blessed with a personable staff and a warm ambience, this hotel on a calm cul-de-sac a block away from the Jardin du Luxembourg is an oasis for contemplation. The welcoming hardwood-floor lobby with a fireplace leads to smallish rooms furnished with wrought-iron beds, contemporary bathrooms, and Provençal fabrics. Ask for one with a balcony, or request one of the larger ground-floor rooms with private entrance onto the street, which is good for families. 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. The famous Luxembourg gardens are less than a minute’s walk away. Pros: on a quiet street close to major sites and transport; sauna; hot buffet breakfast. Cons: extra charge to use Wi-Fi; some very small rooms; air-conditioning not very strong. | Rooms from: €190 | 5 impasse Royer-Collard, 5e, Latin Quarter | 75005 | 01–40–46–08–88 | www.les-jardins-du-luxembourg.com | 26 rooms | Breakfast | Station: RER: Luxembourg.
Port-Royal Hôtel.
HOTEL | The clean rooms and extra-helpful staff at the Port-Royal are well above average for 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 if you 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 for the money; attentive service; typical Parisian neighborhood close to two major markets. Cons: not very central; on a busy street; no air-conditioning or Wi-Fi in rooms. | Rooms from: €84 | 8 bd. de Port-Royal, 5e, Latin Quarter | 75005 | 01–43–31–70–06 | www.hotelportroyal.fr | 46 rooms, 20 with bath | No credit cards | Breakfast | Station: Les Gobelins.
St-Germain-des-Prés
Artus Hôtel.
HOTEL | One of the best things about the six-floor Artus, aside from clean, comfortable rooms, 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 have an espresso at Bar du Marché. Contemporary rooms have dark-wood furnishings and whitewashed, wood-beamed ceilings that complement colored walls and bedspreads. 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, naturally lighted breakfast room; room service is available from Café Mabillon next door. Pros: attentive service and helpful concierge; excellent location on a market street; stylish design. Cons: rooms are small for the price; neighborhood is quite busy and at times noisy; well-being services not a forte. | Rooms from: €295 | 34 rue de Buci, 6e, St-Germain-des-Prés | 75006 | 01–43–29–07–20 | www.artushotel.com | 25 rooms, 2 suites | Breakfast | 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 contemporary veneer furnishings, iMac stations, flat-screen TVs, and crisply jacketed staff. You’re immediately hit by the Conran Shop–meets–espresso bar 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 massage treatment rooms. Rooms lean toward minimalist chic in soothing pastel colors but are transformed often to keep up 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. Breafast is unjustifiably priced at 25€. Pros: upscale, stylish hotel with clean rooms; central St-Germain-des-Prés location; spacious fitness center and spa. Cons: some guests report loud noise between rooms; some very small rooms in lower price category; not suitable for families with smaller kids. | Rooms from: €450 | 7–11 rue St-Benoît, 6e, St-Germain-des-Prés | 75006 | 01–42–61–53–53 | www.hotel-bel-ami.com | 113 rooms, 2 suites | Station: St-Germain-des-Prés.
Hôtel Bonaparte.
HOTEL | Services, amenities, and the 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. Wireless Internet access is free. Children are welcome; baby cribs are even available. lLight sleepers should request a room overlooking the quiet courtyard. lBring your own washcloths. Pros: upscale shopping neighborhood; large rooms for the Rive Gauche; air-conditioning. Cons: outdated decor and some tired mattresses; miniscule elevator big enough for only one person; shower-bathtubs lack curtains. | Rooms from: €159 | 61 rue Bonaparte, 6e, St-Germain-des-Prés | 75006 | 01–43–26–97–37 | www.hotelbonaparte.fr | 29 rooms | Breakfast | Station: St-Sulpice.
FAMILY | Hôtel d’Aubusson.
HOTEL | The staff greets you warmly at this 17th-century town house and former literary salon in the heart of St-Germain-des-Prés. The showpiece 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-style antiques and Hermès toiletries in the granite bathrooms; even the smallest rooms are a generous size by Paris standards. Behind the paved courtyard is a second structure with three apartments, which are ideal for families. The hotel’s Café Laurent hosts jazz musicians Thursday through Saturday evening, and piano on Wednesday. Pros: central location near shops and market street; live jazz on weekends; personalized welcome with free Wi-Fi. Cons: some of the newer rooms lack character; busy street and bar can be noisy; very touristy. | Rooms from: €315 | 33 rue Dauphine, 6e, St-Germain-des-Prés | 75006 | 01–43–29–43–43 | www.hoteldaubusson.com | 49 rooms | Breakfast | Station: Odéon.
Hôtel de l’Abbaye.
HOTEL | This compact hotel on a tranquil side street near St-Sulpice welcomes you with a cobblestone ante-courtyard and cozy floral fabrics. The cozy lobby’s salons have vestiges of the original 18th-century convent, with a breakfast room overlooking the spacious garden. Rooms have period furnishings and fabrics in stripes and floral designs. All have flat-screen TVs; upper-floor accommodations have oak beams and sitting alcoves. Duplexes (split-level suites) have lovely private terraces. Pros: tranquil setting; upscale neighborhood; good value packages (two or three nights including breakfast). Cons: rooms differ greatly in size and style; some bathrooms are quite small, with handheld shower heads; old-fashioned decor a bit somber. | Rooms from: €250 | 10 rue Cassette, 6e, St-Germain-des-Prés | 75006 | 01–45–44–38–11 | www.hotel-abbaye.com | 26 rooms, 8 suites | Breakfast | Station: St-Sulpice.
Hôtel de Nesle.
HOTEL | This one-of-a-kind budget hotel has no elevator, phones, or breakfast, and some rooms share baths, but the quirky, enchanting dollhouse rooms are cleverly decorated by theme. Sleep in Notre-Dame de Paris, lounge in an Asian-style boudoir, spend the night with Molière, or steam it up in Le Hammam. Decorations include colorful murals, canopy beds, or colorful clay tiles. Most rooms overlook an interior garden, and the dead-end-street location keeps the hotel relatively quiet. If you book one of the 11 rooms without a shower, be prepared to share the one bathroom on the second floor. Pros: unique, fun decor; good value for chic location; small garden. Cons: no amenities or services; reservations by phone only; decor and bathrooms in need of renovation. | Rooms from: €100 | 7 rue de Nesle, 6e, St-Germain-des-Prés | 75006 | 01–43–54–62–41 | www.hoteldenesleparis.com | 20 rooms, 9 with bath | Station: Odéon.
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 antique-filled rooms have spacious terraces overlooking the courtyard. lRequest a room with a balcony for the most charm. The 16th-century basement lounge is a warren of stone alcoves with a zinc bar and plush seating. Extra benefits include air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and shuttle service to/from airports (additional cost). lCheck hotel’s website for seasonal promotional offers. Pros: upscale neighborhood close to St-Germain-des-Prés; historic character; friendly service. Cons: rooms in the annex are smaller and have no elevator; small bathrooms; no room service or business facilities. | Rooms from: €265 | 14 rue St-Simon, 7e, St-Germain-des-Prés | 75007 | 01–44–39–20–20 | www.hotelducdesaintsimon.com | 29 rooms, 5 suites | Breakfast | Station: Rue du Bac.
Hôtel Millésime.
HOTEL | The beautiful stone archway of this 17th-century city mansion in St-Germain-des-Prés was in fact the original entrance to the Saint Germain Abbey, and on entering, you’ll feel transported to the sunny south of France with its colorful interior. 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 (Room 15 has direct access). Friendly service and a copious buffet breakfast with a bounty of fresh pastries, fruit, morning charcuterie, and cheeses make this a great find. Free wireless Internet, a personal safe, and satellite TV are added bonuses. Pros: upscale shopping location close to major sites; young, friendly staff; clean rooms. Cons: ground-floor rooms can be noisy; smoke from courtyard when windows are open; some room furnishings and bathrooms need repair. | Rooms from: €250 | 15 rue Jacob, 6e, St-Germain-des-Prés | 75006 | 01–44–07–97–97 | www.millesimehotel.com | 20 rooms, 1 suite | Breakfast | Station: St-Germain-des-Prés.
Hôtel Odéon Saint-Germain.
HOTEL | The 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 the family-run hotel with the distinct luxury of St-Germain-des-Prés. Several small rooms decorated with comfy armchairs and Asian antiques make up the lobby, where guests can help themselves to a continental buffet breakfast in the morning and an honesty bar throughout the day. Rooms are decorated in eggplant and caramel, with flat-screen TVs and designer toiletries. Those overlooking the street have more space and double windows for soundproofing. Pros: Occitane toiletries; free Internet; luxuriously appointed, historic building in an upscale shopping district near Jardin Luxembourg. Cons: small rooms may feel claustrophobic and inconvenient for those with extra-large suitcases; tiny elevator; prices high for room size and average service. | Rooms from: €320 | 13 rue St-Sulpice, 6e, St-Germain-des-Prés | 75006 | 01–43–25–70–11 | www.paris-hotel-odeon.com | 22 rooms, 5 junior suites | Breakfast | Station: Odeon.
Hôtel Recamier.
HOTEL | This discreet boutique hotel nestled in a quiet corner overlooking the Eglise St-Sulpice is perfect for those seeking a romantic and cozy hideaway in the St-Germain-des-Près district. From its humble two-star beginnings nearly 30 years ago as a family-owned bed-and-breakfast, the establishment quickly made a name for itself after being aqcuired and completely renovated. What this hotel lacks in space it makes up for with luxurious amenities and attentive service. The decor is a mix of 20th-century styles with a nod to the 1950s, with plush carpeting, Egyptian cotton linens, original artwork, and thoughtfully designed lighting. The corner Club Rooms on each floor are the largest, with views of the Eiffel tower on the top three floors.lRooms 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 couryard; 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: €260 | 3 bis, Place St-Sulpice, St-Germain-des-Prés | 75006 | 01–43–26–04–89 | www.hotelrecamier.com | 24 rooms | Breakfast | Station: Mabillon.
Hôtel Relais Saint-Sulpice.
HOTEL | Sandwiched between St-Sulpice and the Jardin du Luxembourg, this little hotel wins for location. Eclectic art objects and furnishings, some with an Asian theme, mixed with striped fabrics and ornate molding pull off an oddly unified theme reflective of 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: smallish rooms in the lower category; noise from the street on weekend evenings; poorly designed lighting and interior aesthetics may be unsatisfactory to discerning clientele. | Rooms from: €200 | 3 rue Garancière, 6e, St-Germain-des-Prés | 75006 | 01–46–33–99–00 | www.relais-saint-sulpice.com | 26 rooms | Breakfast | Station: St-Germain-des-Prés, St-Sulpice.
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 thick, rich fabrics in colors like deep red and emerald green? It could be all of the above, plus the intimate bar and restaurant that allows guests 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 Louvre. Cons: some rooms are very small for the price; closest métro station is a few blocks away; eclectic decoration seems mismatched. | Rooms from: €290 | 13 rue des Beaux-Arts, 6e, St-Germain-des-Prés | 75006 | 01–44–41–99–00 | www.l-hotel.com | 16 rooms, 4 suites | Breakfast | Station: St-Germain-des-Prés.
Relais Christine.
HOTEL | On a quiet street on the Left Bank, this exquisite hotel de charme property 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 paint. Split-level lofts sleep up to five people, and several ground-level rooms open onto a lush garden with private patios and heaters. lLook on the hotel website for special package offers that include room, museum tickets, and breakfast. Pros: quiet location while still close to the Latin Quarter action; historic character; Carita spa. Cons: thin walls in some rooms; no on-site restaurant; a bit touristy. | Rooms from: €398 | 3 rue Christine, 6e, St-Germain-des-Prés | 75006 | 01–40–51–60–80, 800/525–4800 in U.S. | www.relais-christine.com | 33 rooms, 18 suites | Breakfast | 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 Gardens. The unique decor was created by local artists and each room has a different theme, screen-printed curtains, ceiling-mounted artwork, and hand-painted walls. Rooms are small but well equipped, with a flat-screen TV and CD/DVD player, free Wi-Fi, luxury bedding, and open-plan bathrooms with rain shower and separate toilet. Some rooms have views of the Eiffel Tower and Jacuzzi 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 service; quiet street in charming neighborhood close to métro; unique concept hotel. Cons: limited closet space; little privacy with exposed bathrooms and glass-door showers opening up directly to room; no restaurant or bar. | Rooms from: €195 | 3 rue de Chevreuse, 6e, Montparnasse | 75006 | 01–56–54–31–31 | www.apostrophe-hotel.com | 16 rooms | Breakfast | Station: Vavin.
Hôtel de Sers.
HOTEL | Originally built by the Marquis de Sers with a horse-drawn carriage entrance, inner courtyard, antechambers, expansive salons, and monumental staircase, the beautiful structure became a health-care facility in the early 1900s before transforming in 1935 to a travelers’ hotel. Renovated with bold modern styling and hints of traditional aesthetics, the Sers is a magnet for the trendier set who dine and sleep in luxurious spaces geared more for the 21st century with iPod stations, wireless Internet, and contemporary chic bathrooms fit for a modern king and queen. lBook 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 right next to gourmet food shop Hédiard; restaurant with many other dining options nearby; hammam and fitness room. Cons: basic rooms not so spacious; no formal spa; on the expensive side. | Rooms from: €400 | 41 av. Pierre 1er de Serbie, Triangle d’Or | 75008 | 01–53–23–75–75 | www.hoteldesers-paris.fr | 45 rooms, 7 suites | Breakfast | Station: Alma-Marceau, George V.
Hôtel des Bains.
HOTEL | In a charming neighborhood, this hidden budget find has tastefully decorated rooms, satellite TV, and air-conditioning. Prices are excellent, especially for the family-friendly two-room suites (€112–€165), one with a 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 prefer a humble, inexpensive stay. Pros: close to Jardin du Luxembourg and St-Germain-des-Prés; garden courtyard; typical Parisian character. Cons: no online booking; streets can be noisy; some rooms and bathrooms very small and worn. | Rooms from: €96 | 33 rue Delambre, 14e, Montparnasse | 75014 | 01–43–20–85–27 | www.hotel-des-bains-montparnasse.com | 34 rooms, 8 suites | Breakfast | Station: Vavin, Edgar Quinet.
Hôtel Le Sainte-Beuve.
HOTEL | On a tranquil street between the Jardin du Luxembourg and Montparnasse’s cafés and brasseries is the pleasant six-floor Sainte-Beuve. The colorful homestyle lobby and breakfast area are bathed in light, showcasing a wood-fire hearth, plump sofas, and Greek Revival columns. A classic contemporary style dominates uncluttered rooms decorated with wooden period furnishings. Free wireless Internet allows guests to stay connected. Pros: stylish familial decor; good location without 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, not-so-friendly service. | Rooms from: €242 | 9 rue Ste-Beuve, 6e, Montparnasse | 75006 | 01–45–48–20–07 | www.parishotelcharme.com | 21 rooms, 1 suite | Station: Vavin.
Hôtel Lenox-Montparnasse.
HOTEL | Right across from a local French cinema on a street lined with fish restaurants, this six-floor hotel with proximity to the Jardin du Luxembourg and extra amenities such as free Wi-Fi offers good value. Opt for a larger junior suite that has a fireplace and exposed beams; beware standard-size rooms—there’s barely a suitcase-width between the wall and the foot of the bed. The honesty bar is open from 2 pm to 2 am, while complimentary coffee and tea is served in the salon in the afternoon. Expect a homestyle feel and clean accommodations. Pros: lively district close to Montparnasse and St-Germain-des-Prés; well-stocked honesty bar; friendly multilingual service. Cons: standard rooms are small; noisy street; attracts business clientele. | Rooms from: €250 | 15 rue Delambre, 14e, Montparnasse | 75014 | 01–43–35–34–50 | www.paris-hotel-lenox.com | 46 rooms, 6 suites | Breakfast | Station: Vavin.
Hôtel Raspail-Montparnasse.
HOTEL | Capturing the spirit of Montparnasse in its heyday as the art capital of the world in the 1920s and ‘30s, this hotel names 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 with stale cigarette smoke odor; dated interiors with worn fabrics. | Rooms from: €185 | 203 bd. Raspail, 14e, Montparnasse | 75014 | 01–43–20–62–86 | www.hotelraspailmontparnasse.com | 38 rooms | Breakfast | Station: Vavin.
La Maison Champs Elysées.
HOTEL | In the heart of the Golden Triangle, about a 10-minute walk to Paris’s most famous avenue, luxury shops, and Grand Palais, La Maison beckons the fashionable and art-minded crowd with an eclectic contemporary twist on a historical Haussmannian belle demeure. Imagine Alice in Wonderland meets Marie Antoinette and you’ll understand the avant-garde trompe d’oeil entrance, skewed angles, and walls in the all-white reception room where light sconces illuminate numerous blank areas of paneling, questioning the absence of paintings. The minimalist and quirky interior style keeps in line with enigmatic Belgian designer Martin Margiela, who converted the 1866 hôtel particulier belonging to the Duchess of Rivoli for La Maison des Centraliens (the Alumni Association of École Centrale Paris), owners of the six-floor townhouse since 1919. Standard rooms, while small, aim to please with luxurious linens, goose-feather duvets, free Wi-Fi flat-screen TV, mini Mac computer, and customized Maison Margiela toiletries. To experience the hotel’s fullest creative eccentricities, splurge on one of 17 Couture rooms featuring the Curiosity Case Suite—a study in black with carbon-color walls and floors interrupted by artistic textural element and furnishings. Urban chic meets traditional fare in the Cigar Bar and 80-seat restaurant serving a seasonal menu every three weeks. Pros: convenient location close to métro; on quiet street; unique decor. Cons: tired conditions in some rooms; no fitness center; not good for families. | Rooms from: €270 | 8 rue Jean Goujon, Triangle d’Or | 75008 | 01–40–74–64–65 | www.lamaisonchampselysees.com | 57 rooms and suites | Breakfast | Station: Franklin D. Roosevelt.
Western Paris
BLC Design Hotel.
HOTEL | In the young and trendy area between Bastille and Nation, the BLC Design pays homage to everything white, or BLanC, from which the name derives. Rooms are spotlessly decorated in minimalist clean eggshell and stark white tones with splashes of muted colors from oversized photographic murals and iridescent “Zen” lamps. Flat-screen TVs, modern fixtures, and metallic mosaic tiling make up the simple designer look that oozes urban chic. If you’re a guest, leave your muddy shoes outside. The hotel attracts a hip, fashion-conscious crowd. Pros: cool, contemporary interior; free wireless Internet in rooms; good location near young, lively area. Cons: small spaces; inconsistent service; expensive rates. | Rooms from: €200 | 4 rue Richard Lenoir, Oberkampf | 75011 | 01–40–09–60–16 | www.blcdesign-hotel-paris.com | 29 rooms | Breakfast | Station: Charonne, Ledru Rollin.
Hôtel Gavarni.
HOTEL | Considering the traditional, almost old-fashioned Parisian decor, you may be surprised to learn that this property, which is located in a chic residential neighborhood, is one of the first certified eco-hotels in Paris. The Gavarni’s dedication to the environment is more than skin deep, and they use energy- and water-saving fixtures and carbon-offsetting practices. Rooms have carpeting, tiled bathrooms and flat-screen TVs with free Wi-Fi throughout. lUpgrade to one of the larger suites—the Trocadero Suite has a view of the Eiffel Tower. Pros: organic breakfast; charming Parisian neighborhood; friendly welcome. Cons: a few blocks to the nearest métro; standard rooms and bathrooms quite small; no facilities. | Rooms from: €200 | 5 rue Gavarni, 16e, Passy, Western Paris | 75116 | 01–45–24–52–82 | www.gavarni.com | 21 rooms, 4 suites | Breakfast.
Hotel Verneuil.
HOTEL | Steps away from the Museé d’Orsay and Louvre is an intimate and tastefully decorated boutique hotel in the heart of St. Germain offering good service and creature comforts like comfy duvets, free wireless Internet 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 the Nôtre Dame Cathedral, historic Café de la Flore, Luxembourg Gardens, or the former residence of famed French crooner Serge Gainsbourg—all a short distance from the charming establishment’s quiet street. Pros: air-conditioned renovated rooms; perfect location on Left Bank near major museums and sites; welcoming service. Cons: sometimes touristy; no restaurant; no gym or spa. | Rooms from: €185 | 8 rue de Verneuil | 75007 | 01–42–61–40–38 | www.hotel-verneuil-saint-germain.com | 26 rooms | Breakfast.
Le Sezz.
HOTEL | Created by French furniture designer Christophe Pillet in a chic residential district of Paris, Le Sezz mixes rough stone walls with flashes of bright color in 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 paperwork is done in advance, so you can go directly to your room without having to stand around the lobby. 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, not much else; services are limited for a hotel in this price range; breakfast dining area feels cold and somber. | Rooms from: €290 | 6 av. Frémiet, 16e, Passy-Auteuil | 75016 | 01–56–75–26–26 | www.hotelsezz.com | 13 rooms, 13 suites | Breakfast | Station: Passy.
FAMILY | Renaissance Paris Hôtel Le Parc Trocadéro.
Reopened in April 2011 and now part of the Marriott chain, this spacious and historic urban retreat in an upscale neighborhood was once the home of Alfred Nobel (whose will established the Nobel Prizes). The contemporary-classic decor is nothing out of the ordinary, but it functions well for families who want convenience. Just a short stroll from the bustling Place du Trocadéro (overlooking the Eiffel Tower),the hotel is in a quieter residential district with métro stations nearby. A leafy garden courtyard lends a tranquil country hideaway feeling. Internet is available in public spaces for an extra fee; rooms are equipped with iPod docking stations. Pros: large beds with plush comforters; 24-hour fitness center and room service; complimentary breakfast. Cons: conference hotel hosts large groups; inconvenient for walking to the center of Paris; service and housekeeping at mediocre level for higher price bracket. | Rooms from: €499 | 55–59 rue Raymond-Poincaré, Trocadéro | 75116 | 01–44–05–66–66 | www.parisrenaissance.com | 122 rooms | Breakfast | Station: Trocadéro.
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