Paris, a city that captures the hearts and imaginations of travelers worldwide, boasts a remarkable collection of luxurious hotels. From the grand dames lining the historic 1st arrondissement to the trendy boutique hotels dotting the charming, lesser-known neighborhoods, there’s a perfect haven for every taste.
The City of Light offers a dazzling array of options, each promising an unforgettable experience. But with such a wide selection, choosing the right hotel can be daunting. Fear not! We’ve meticulously curated a list of Paris’s finest hotels, each offering exceptional amenities, impeccable service, and captivating designs.
Iconic Grande Dame: Le Meurice
Le Meurice, with its commanding presence overlooking the Tuileries Gardens, is a true icon. Its rich history is a tapestry woven with the threads of glamour and artistic brilliance. This centuries-old hotel has played host to legendary figures, including Elizabeth Taylor and Mata Hari. But it’s the impressive roster of artists and thinkers who frequented its halls that truly solidifies its legacy. Salvador Dalí called this hotel his annual haven for three decades, while the likes of Émile Zola, Andy Warhol, and Bob Dylan, among others, walked its corridors. Even Picasso chose Le Meurice for his wedding reception.
This vibrant legacy resonates throughout the hotel’s playful and iconic interiors. A surreal sculpture of entwined columns dominates the lobby, while the breathtaking ceiling of the central dining space, painted by Phillipe Starck’s daughter, Ara, during his 2007 renovation, is a sight to behold.
As you ascend to one of the hotel’s 160 rooms and suites, you’ll be greeted by the classic elegance of a grand Parisian hotel. With a soothing palette of creams and powder blues, the plush bedrooms and delicately marbled bathrooms exude effortless luxury. And don’t forget to savor the culinary delights offered by Le Meurice, including its two-Michelin-starred restaurant by Alain Ducasse. This whimsical approach to fine dining is a perfect reflection of the hotel’s spirit.
Enchanting Escape: La Fantaisie
La Fantaisie, a new gem nestled in Paris’s 9th arrondissement, welcomes you with a phrase etched in the pavement: “Enchanté.” This enchanting forest of delights truly lives up to its name. Step inside, and you’ll be enveloped in a world of whimsical wonder. The lobby ceiling resembles a tree canopy, tables in the salon are supported by petal-shaped legs, and the dense foliage-themed wallpaper in the corridors appears to be lifted from the pages of a children’s fantasy novel.
This modern maximalist masterpiece is the creation of Martin Brudnizki, the renowned designer behind iconic projects like Annabel’s in London and Hotel Fouquet’s in New York. La Fantaisie also boasts a restaurant by the three-Michelin-starred chef, Dominique Crenn, and a rooftop bar offering breathtaking views of Paris’s Haussman facades.
Chic and Star-Studded: Hotel Costes
Hotel Costes, a five-star property just a short walk from the Place Vendome, is a haven for the fashionable elite during Paris Fashion Week. It’s a true “see-and-be-seen” destination, and its courtyard restaurant, particularly during couture week, is a hub for the crème de la crème of the fashion world.
But the hotel’s appeal goes beyond its star-studded clientele. Owners Jean-Louis and Gilbert Costes commissioned two of the world’s leading interior designers—Jacques Garcia and Christian Liagre—to create its three guest wings. Guests can choose between Garcia’s theatrical, cabaret-like dens or Liagre’s minimalist temples, each offering a unique experience.
Fashionable Haven: Hôtel Plaza Athénée
For those seeking a Parisian experience steeped in fashion and luxury, Hôtel Plaza Athénée is the ultimate destination. Occupying a prime location on the Avenue Montaigne, the hotel boasts some of the most breathtaking views of the Eiffel Tower in the city.
The hotel’s close ties to the world of fashion are legendary. Christian Dior, whose couture salon was just a stone’s throw away, was a frequent patron. The iconic Bar jacket, it’s said, was even inspired by the shape of the hotel’s cocktail bar. During fashion weeks, the hotel transforms into a bustling hub for editors and buyers, making it a perennial favorite for the fashion elite.
Hôtel Plaza Athénée offers an array of luxurious experiences. Indulge in the opulent ambiance of the gilded all-day eatery, Le Relais Plaza, or the Space Age glamour of Alain Ducasse’s flagship restaurant. People-watching is a favorite pastime at the hotel, offering a glimpse into the chic world of Parisian fashion.
The hotel’s rooms and suites are decked out in classic Gallic style, featuring eye-catching shades of gray and pink. However, the rooms on the top two floors offer a special surprise: sleek, Art Deco-inspired spaces with sprawling, loft-like layouts and unparalleled rooftop views. Don’t miss the world-class spa, located deep within the basement. Newly refurbished and overseen by Dior, the spa features soothing treatment rooms with luxurious Dior blankets and cushions, offering the best hydrafacial in the city.
A Parisian Oasis: Le Royal Monceau – Raffles Paris
Located in the heart of Paris’s 8th arrondissement, Le Royal Monceau – Raffles Paris stands as a testament to timeless elegance. While its location might seem slightly off the beaten path, it’s actually a surprising boon. Within walking distance of major sights, the hotel provides a tranquil haven away from the city’s bustling main thoroughfares.
Step inside its grand entryway, and you’ll be enveloped in a sense of serenity. The hotel’s interiors, meticulously designed by Phillipe Starck in the late 2000s, blend classic elegance with modern touches. Starck’s signature maximalist style is tempered, creating a sense of understated luxury. The hotel’s commitment to creativity is evident throughout, from the pioneering art concierge offering private guided tours of the city’s museums and galleries to the custom pieces adorning the walls of its light, breezy rooms. The desks are even inlaid with a custom map of Paris created by Starck himself, highlighting his favorite Parisian gems.
Le Royal Monceau offers an extraordinary range of culinary experiences. The first restaurant by Nobu Matsuhisa in Paris, serving Japanese-Peruvian fusion dishes in a dramatic dining room, is a must-visit. The Michelin-starred Il Carpaccio, a collaboration with the renowned Da Vittorio restaurant in Bergamo, offers decadent Italian classics. Don’t miss their signature paccheri dish, a symphony of flavors and textures.
It’s no surprise that this hotel is equally popular with local Parisians and international jet-setters.
A Cozy Escape: Chateau des Fleurs
Tucked away on a quiet side street off the Champs Elysées, Chateau des Fleurs is a hidden gem. Named after a legendary nightlife venue that once graced the area, the hotel now exudes a tranquil and intimate ambiance.
This 1910 building, an elegant boutique hotel with an immaculate feel, is a haven of cozy curves and warm, gentle colors. Shades of pink, beige, cream, and terracotta, reminiscent of an old-fashioned candy store, create a welcoming and charming atmosphere. The rooms are carefully appointed, offering a sense of personal sanctuary.
The hotel’s unique charm extends to its amenities, including a small spa with two treatment rooms and a gym located in the basement. For those seeking a respite from the city’s hustle and bustle, Chateau des Fleurs offers a tranquil oasis of Parisian elegance.
