Finding my perfect Parisian home away from home was a stroke of pure luck. Before my trip, I was a Paris newbie, clueless about the city’s layout, hidden gems, or even the meaning of “arrondissements.” Armed with nothing but a map and the internet, I embarked on a quest to find the perfect hotel. Pinterest articles led me to the trendy Marais, the artistic Montmartre, and the charming Saint Germain. It was in Saint Germain that I stumbled upon a small hotel that called to me with its “French” charm and prime location, a stone’s throw from the metro. The price was right, so I booked it without hesitation, trusting my intuition. What I didn’t know then was that this little hotel was the key to unlocking the magic of Saint Germain.
Stepping inside, I felt like I had entered a time capsule. The hotel, though small, exuded a sense of elegance and history. A cozy lobby with a few plush chairs welcomed me, and in the back, a charming parlor served as the breakfast room. The décor was a feast for the senses, with deep reds, rich fabrics, and a grand Venetian Murano glass chandelier. My room, number 24 on the second floor (that’s the third floor to Americans), was small but cozy, with a king-size bed that was actually two twin beds pushed together. The irregular shape of the room and the exposed wooden beams on the ceiling whispered tales of a bygone era. I loved it!
A Charming Hotel with an Even More Charming Neighborhood
The hotel’s charm wasn’t limited to its interior. The breakfast buffet, served in the parlor, was a delightful start to each day. For €12, I could enjoy hot coffee, tea, or chocolate, a basket of fresh bread, and a selection of delicious treats, from scrambled eggs and sausage to cheeses, fruits, and cereals. The ambiance was delightful, with beautiful place settings and a cozy atmosphere. Although the breakfast was simple, it was more than enough to fuel me for my explorations.
Beyond the hotel’s walls, Saint Germain unfolded its wonders. The famous Les Deux Magots and Cafe Flore were just steps away, tempting me with their iconic Parisian charm. Le Bonaparte, another gem, was right around the corner, offering a cozy spot to relax. The oldest church in Paris, Église de Saint Germain des Prés, stood majestically a stone’s throw from the hotel, its history palpable in every stone. And for easy navigation, Metro lines 4 and 10 were conveniently located nearby. Even a Monoprix supermarket and my favorite French skincare store, City Pharma, were just a short walk away.
I could not have asked for a better base for my Parisian adventure. My accidental discovery of this charming hotel in Saint Germain turned out to be the perfect starting point to explore this vibrant and historic neighborhood. Each day was an exciting exploration of the city’s hidden treasures, with my cozy hotel as my haven after a long day of sightseeing. If you’re looking for a slice of Parisian charm, look no further than the 6th arrondissement and this gem of a hotel.
