Paris, the City of Lights, is a dream destination for many travelers. It’s renowned for its timeless charm, rich history, and delectable cuisine. But what truly sets Paris apart is its extraordinary collection of luxury hotels. Whether you’re seeking grand, historic palaces or trendy, boutique properties, Paris offers a hotel experience that’s second to none.
With so many exceptional hotels to choose from, it can be daunting to select the perfect one. Fear not, dear reader! Vogue has compiled a curated list of the best hotels in Paris, each promising an unforgettable stay.
Parisian Grande Dames: Where History Meets Modern Luxury
Le Meurice stands as a testament to Parisian elegance, its rich history weaving a captivating tale. This iconic hotel, overlooking the Tuileries Gardens, has hosted an impressive cast of luminaries over its two centuries, including Elizabeth Taylor, Mata Hari, and even Salvador Dalí, who graced its halls annually for three decades. Le Meurice has long been a haven for artists and thinkers, and that creative spirit still pulses through its walls.
Step into the lobby and be captivated by the surreal sculpture of swirling columns, a testament to the hotel’s playful and avant-garde design. The central dining space is adorned with a breathtaking ceiling mural by Ara Starck, adding another layer of artistry to this extraordinary space.
Le Meurice’s 160 rooms and suites retain the classic charm of a grand Parisian hotel, with plush bedrooms and exquisitely marbled bathrooms. While the ambiance is distinctly Parisian, the design is refreshingly contemporary, featuring soft creams and powder blues.
And let’s not forget the culinary delights! Le Meurice boasts the flagship two-Michelin-starred restaurant by Alain Ducasse, where whimsical fine dining perfectly complements the hotel’s unique atmosphere.
A Whimsical Forest of Delights: La Fantaisie, a New Parisian Gem
La Fantaisie is a new hotel in Paris’s 9th arrondissement that promises a truly enchanting experience. The phrase “Enchanté” is literally etched into the pavement outside, and it’s a fitting welcome.
Step inside and discover a whimsical world of delights. The lobby ceiling is a captivating tapestry reminiscent of a tree canopy, while tables in the salon are adorned with petal-shaped legs, adding a touch of whimsy to the space. The dense foliage-themed wallpaper in the corridors is reminiscent of the pages of “Where The Wild Things Are”. The mastermind behind this enchanting design is Martin Brudnizki, a modern maximalist master known for projects like Annabel’s in London and Hotel Fouquet’s in New York.
La Fantaisie boasts a restaurant by the three-Michelin-starred chef Dominique Crenn, offering a culinary experience that’s as remarkable as the hotel’s design. The rooftop bar provides stunning views of the Haussman facades of Paris, the perfect setting for a nightcap.
Parisian Glamour at Its Finest: Hotel Costes, a Chic Retreat
Hotel Costes, a five-star property situated within walking distance of the Place Vendome, is synonymous with Parisian glamour. Its courtyard restaurant is the place to be seen during Paris Fashion Week, attracting a constellation of famous faces. But Hotel Costes is more than just a celebrity hotspot.
Owners Jean-Louis and Gilbert Costes enlisted two of the world’s top interior designers, Jacques Garcia and Christian Liagre, to create its three guest wings. Guests can choose between Garcia’s theatrical, cabaret-like dens or Liaigre’s minimalist temples, each offering a unique and luxurious experience.
The Epitome of Parisian Chic: Hôtel Plaza Athénée, Fashion’s Favorite
Hôtel Plaza Athénée, situated on the prestigious Avenue Montaigne, is a haven for fashion enthusiasts. This iconic hotel has long been a favorite of the fashion world, with Christian Dior, a regular patron, drawing inspiration for his iconic Bar jacket from the hotel’s cocktail bar.
The hotel’s allure extends beyond its fashion connections. The gilded all-day eatery Le Relais Plaza exudes unabashed opulence, while the Space Age glamour of its Alain Ducasse flagship restaurant provides a truly unforgettable culinary experience. The hotel’s prime location provides unparalleled people-watching opportunities, allowing guests to soak in the vibrant energy of Paris.
The rooms and suites at Hôtel Plaza Athénée are decorated with classic Gallic flair, with a modern twist featuring eye-popping shades of gray and pink. The top floors boast sleeker, Art Deco-inspired rooms and suites, offering breathtaking rooftop views.
And let’s not forget the world-class spa, newly refurbished by Dior. This oasis of tranquility features luxurious Dior blankets and cushions, and offers the best hydrafacial in Paris, leaving guests with a radiant glow.
A Haven of Artistic Inspiration: Le Royal Monceau – Raffles Paris, Where Creativity Thrives
Le Royal Monceau – Raffles Paris, situated a few blocks away from the city’s grand hotels in the 8th arrondissement, offers a haven of artistic inspiration. This elegant hotel boasts a slightly out-of-the-way location, providing a peaceful retreat from the bustling city center, while still being within easy walking distance of major sights.
The hotel’s grand entryway sets the tone for the luxurious experience that awaits. Its interiors, a testament to the vision of Philippe Starck, exude a refined elegance, recalling the glamorous heyday of the hotel’s origins in the 1930s.
Le Royal Monceau is a haven for art lovers, boasting an art concierge who offers private guided tours of Paris’s finest museums and galleries. The hotel’s rooms and suites are adorned with custom art pieces, showcasing a commitment to creativity.
The culinary offerings at Le Royal Monceau are equally impressive. Nobu Matsuhisa’s first Paris restaurant offers a delectable fusion of Japanese and Peruvian cuisine, while the Michelin-starred Il Carpaccio, created in partnership with the renowned Da Vittorio restaurant in Bergamo, provides decadent riffs on Italian classics.
A Parisian Garret of Charm: Chateau des Fleurs, Intimate Elegance
Chateau des Fleurs, nestled on a quiet side street off the Champs Elysées, offers an intimate and elegant escape. This 1910 building, named after a former nightlife venue, evokes a sense of tranquility.
Flowers cascade from window boxes, adding a touch of romantic charm to the hotel’s facade. The interior is a symphony of warm, gentle colors, from pink and beige to cream and terracotta, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. The rooms are meticulously appointed, with thoughtful details like bathtubs positioned near the bed and skylights that reveal the Parisian sky.
The hotel’s inviting bar and lobby area, with its rattan screens and bobbin tables and chairs, provides a perfect setting for an afternoon cafe au lait or an aperitif. Chateau des Fleurs is a small, cozy hotel with a lot of style, offering a truly unique Parisian experience.
A Symphony of Style and Luxury: Your Guide to Paris’s Best Hotels
Whether you’re seeking a historic palace, a whimsical boutique property, or a stylish haven for fashion enthusiasts, Paris offers a hotel experience that’s as diverse as the city itself. Vogue’s curated guide provides a glimpse into some of the city’s most exceptional hotels, each offering a unique blend of luxury, style, and Parisian charm. No matter your preference, the City of Lights promises a stay that will enchant and inspire.
