Paris is no longer just about predictable tourist traps. Savvy travelers crave unique experiences, and the city’s boutique hotel scene is perfectly catering to this desire. Forget the generic, bland hotels – Paris has a wealth of characterful boltholes ready to whisk you away to another era. From hidden country-style lodges in Montmartre to former guesthouses turned luxury hotels, there’s a boutique gem waiting for you. So, ditch the tourist traps and discover the best boutique hotels in Paris.
Home Away From Home
Stepping into this stylish property feels like arriving at a friend’s chic apartment. Located between the Louvre and Opéra, it effortlessly blends comfort and design. The relaxed living spaces, designed by Sarah Lavoine, boast art and design books, cozy sofas, and patterned rugs, making you feel instantly at home. Even the smallest rooms, called “Cosy” bedrooms, are surprisingly spacious for Paris. For those looking for ultimate indulgence, there are four suites each equipped with a private hammam steam bath. Rooms come in various colors, from crisp white to bold blues and blacks, all adorned with unique details like round mirrors and ceramic reliefs. And, unlike many Parisian hotels, this one has a small pool, adding an extra touch of luxury. You’ll feel pampered in this stylish oasis.
Where History and Luxury Collide
This hotel is steeped in history, having welcomed a parade of celebrities over the years. The most famous, of course, is Oscar Wilde, who spent his final days in a furnished apartment here. Throughout the 20th century, the address remained a magnet for famous figures, including Ava Gardener, Frank Sinatra, and the Aga Kahn. The hotel, renovated by the renowned Jacques Garcia, radiates elegance and charm. A grand galleried staircase leads you to rooms decorated in his signature style, a captivating blend of ornate wall mouldings, grand chandeliers, and unexpected accents like leopard print carpets. It’s a captivating fusion of historical grandeur and modern luxury, offering a truly unique experience.
A Hidden Gem in Montmartre
Tucked away on a charming alley in Montmartre, this 19th-century mansion exudes Parisian elegance. Once home to members of the Hermès and Rothschild families, it retains its bourgeois-home charm. The spacious and eclectic suites provide a luxurious retreat, and the fashionable cocktail bar and restaurant are on every Parisian’s “must-visit” list. For a truly intimate experience, head to Le Très Particulier, a back-door cocktail bar with a tropical Garden of Eden décor and a bewitching summer garden. It’s the perfect place to enjoy tasty tapas and soak in the Montmartre atmosphere. This hidden gem offers an exclusive escape from the bustling city.
French Design at Its Finest
This hotel is a celebration of all things French. The blue and white color palette references the national colors, and suites pay homage to iconic French figures. The large open restaurant, with its glass verrerie and strings of bare bulbs, is designed for shared experiences, inviting you to indulge in French wines and gastronomy. Live music events feature everything from 1920s French hits to Daft Punk, and Sunday comedy nights cater to a local crowd. Located on the edge of the hip 9th Arrondissement, it’s conveniently close to many of Paris’s main sights. This hotel is an immersive experience that allows you to truly connect with French culture.
A Homely Retreat in the Heart of Paris
This hotel comprises two identical buildings, ‘Adele’ and ‘Jules’, separated by just a couple of doors. This quirky design adds to its unique character, showcasing the atypicality of Parisian architecture. The contemporary look emphasizes comfort and homeliness with warm colors, comfortable furnishings, and soft lighting. The lobby/dining area features a well-stocked bookshelf, cozy sofas, and Paris-themed artwork. Even the standard doubles, though small, are cleverly designed to maximize space. Some rooms offer terraces overlooking the courtyard, and balconies on the second and fifth floors. This hotel offers a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city.
A Literary Haven with a Retro Touch
This stylish hotel enjoys a central location, offering easy access to the Louvre and Palais Garnier opera. The décor blends the French features of the Haussmanian building with contemporary furnishings. The dark Hungarian parquet in the lobby and the vintage chrome stove in the breakfast area are just a few of the eye-catching details. A subtle literary theme runs throughout, with French novels decorating the attractive bookshelf in the lobby and a small selection available in the rooms. The décor is crisp and contemporary with retro touches like copper lamps and Deco-style patterns. Period features, such as wall mouldings and exposed wood beams, add to the charm. This hotel offers a sophisticated blend of modern and classic, appealing to both bookworms and design enthusiasts.
Sleep Like a Parisian on the Seine
For a truly unique experience, consider this groundbreaking hotel on the Seine. This innovative hotel group, known for Paris’s first boat hotel, has created a floating cocoon where guests can escape the hustle and bustle of city life. The beachy lounge bar is a popular spot for sundowners among trendy Parisians, and the laidback vibe encourages you to kick off your shoes and relax on a shimmering Fatboy with ethereal Seine views. Waking up to water views and Parisian péniches sailing by is an unforgettable experience. This hotel offers a unique escape from the city, all at a great value price.
So, ditch the predictable tourist traps and experience Paris like a local. Boutique hotels offer a world of possibilities, from historical charm to modern elegance. Whether you seek a home away from home or a floating cocoon on the Seine, there’s a boutique hotel in Paris that’s perfect for you.
