Paris, the City of Lights, has an enchanting aura that ignites the flame of romance. Its twinkling Seine, historic bridges, and candlelit restaurants create a setting where love stories unfold effortlessly. And when it comes to choosing a romantic retreat, Paris offers a diverse range of luxurious hotels, each promising a unique and unforgettable experience. From opulent mansions with sumptuous spas to hotels with stunning views and charming hideaways, there’s a perfect haven for every couple’s dream getaway.
A Palace Fit for Royalty: The Shangri-La
Step into the grand world of the Shangri-La, a Parisian pied-à-terre once owned by Prince Roland Bonaparte, Napoleon’s great nephew. This palatial hotel boasts breathtaking views of the Eiffel Tower, a wedding-cake facade, and original function rooms that would make Versailles envious. Its immaculately restored grand staircase sets the stage for a truly regal experience. Inside, the bedrooms are adorned with classic elegance – duck-egg blue, cream, and soft gold hues create a soothing atmosphere. Each room is individually designed, featuring marquetry desks, subtle embossed wallpaper, and delicate orchids. The best rooms boast balconies overlooking the lush garden, while the top suites offer panoramic terraces for unforgettable views. The Shangri-La promises a truly royal escape in the heart of Paris.
A Bewitching Blend of Glamour and History: Maison Souquet
Prepare to be captivated by Maison Souquet, a magical hotel where belle époque glamour meets five-star luxury. This extraordinary address exudes a creative exuberance that will set your heart racing. Its history is as fascinating as its present-day charm. In the early 20th century, the building housed a maison close, a luxurious brothel for gentlemen of means. Today, celebrity French designer Jacques Garcia has transformed this historical space into a bewitching haven for lovers. Blood-red interiors spun from the finest silk, gold gilt, Venetian glass, and sculpted wood create an atmosphere that is both sophisticated and sensual. The meticulous attention to detail is simply exquisite, from the 19th-century furniture and original chinoiserie to the flickering scented candles crafted by an artisan in Lyon. Maison Souquet is a perfect blend of history and contemporary elegance, making it a truly unique and unforgettable experience.
A Contemporary Wonderland: Le Royal Monceau Raffles
For a modern take on luxury, head to Le Royal Monceau Raffles, a contemporary palace with Philippe Starck-designed décor and fusion cuisine by Nobu Matsuhisa. The grand Art Deco awning hints at the hotel’s rich history, while the interior is thoroughly modern, inspired by Alice in Wonderland. Starck’s playful use of angles creates a whimsical atmosphere – striped optical-illusion wallpaper in the corridors and a maze-like mirrored spa add a touch of the extraordinary. The ground-level public spaces open onto a smart courtyard, where you can relax under the summer sun at tables and chairs arranged around a porthole overlooking the large turquoise pool. Le Royal Monceau Raffles offers a unique blend of contemporary design and luxurious comfort, a perfect escape for the discerning traveler.
A Decadent Retreat in the Marais: Bourg Tibourg
The Marais, a fashionable district known for its trendy boutiques and vibrant atmosphere, is home to Bourg Tibourg, a deliciously decadent retro retreat. The plain facade of the hotel hides a treasure trove of tasteful opulence within. Bold colors and oriental design motifs are juxtaposed with neo-gothic décor, creating a striking contrast that is both eye-catching and harmonious. The meticulous attention to detail is evident in the rich, luxurious fabrics, kitsch details, and antique furniture, all carefully selected by designer Jacques Garcia. The hotel’s film library, filled with stylish French cinema classics, offers a unique touch – guests can enjoy a movie in their room with a bowl of popcorn. Bourg Tibourg promises a truly luxurious experience, combining eclectic design with a welcoming and intimate atmosphere.
A History of Glamour: Hôtel D’Alsace
The Hôtel D’Alsace is a historic landmark that has welcomed countless celebrities throughout the years. The exiled Oscar Wilde once lived in a furnished apartment here, and the hotel continues to attract famous figures from around the world. The 20 rooms blend Empire style and Baroque detailing, creating a sophisticated and luxurious atmosphere. Wood panels, elaborate carved wood features, grand bed heads, exquisite patterned wallpaper, and antique embellishments all come together to create a truly unique and memorable experience. The Hôtel D’Alsace offers a taste of history combined with modern comfort, making it a perfect choice for a luxurious and romantic getaway.
Parisian Elegance with a Modern Twist: Hôtel Plaza Athénéé
Originally built for the half-brother of Napoleon III, the Hôtel Plaza Athénéé boasts a striking stone façade. This grand mansion was renovated in 2015 by designer Jacques Garcia, who painstakingly blended Parisian elegance with modern touches. The signature playful mix of styles is evident throughout the hotel, with Second Empire elements, Deco pillars, and contemporary art pieces creating a harmonious and sophisticated atmosphere. Even the smallest rooms are the size of a standard Parisian apartment, and guests can enjoy views of the Jardin des Champs-Élysées or the charming interior courtyard. The Hôtel Plaza Athénéé offers a luxurious and stylish escape, where historical grandeur meets modern design.
A Secret Escape: Hôtel de Crillon
Escape to the Hôtel de Crillon, a secret pied à terre that will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a classic Parisian fantasy. The ground-floor lounges exude an exclusive gentlemen’s club ambiance with dim lighting, heavy red-velvet drapes, and opulent drawing-room furnishings. The 1871 mansion was once home to members of the Hermès and Rothschild families, and its bourgeois-home charm remains intact. The hotel’s five spacious suites each offer a unique and captivating atmosphere, while the lush walled garden and neighboring pétanque court provide a tranquil escape from the bustling city. The Hôtel de Crillon is a hidden gem in Paris, offering a luxurious and intimate experience that will leave a lasting impression.
Classic Parisian Elegance: Hôtel Le Bristol
Set in a grand 18th-century building on the picturesque Place Valois, the Hôtel Le Bristol is a classic example of Parisian elegance. Interior designer Pierre-Yves Rochon has harmoniously blended the building’s original features, including the imposing spiral stairwell, with contemporary elements, creating an understated and sophisticated atmosphere. The highest quality materials are used throughout the hotel – fabrics and wallpaper from renowned Parisian designers and furnishings by Philippe Lurel create a luxurious and elegant setting. Contemporary artworks adorn the lobby, including busts of Voltaire and Rousseau, adding a touch of intellectualism to the space. The Hôtel Le Bristol offers a timeless and elegant escape, where traditional Parisian charm meets modern comfort.
Parisian Chic with a Modern Twist: Hôtel Nolinski
The Hôtel Nolinski, a stylish haven on Avenue de l’Opéra, is a unique blend of Belle Epoque charm and contemporary design. The Evok group employed renowned architect Jean-Louis Denoit to transform this hotel into the luxurious home of a fictional wealthy traveler. Marble surfaces and suites named after Hemingway and Josephine Baker evoke the elegant Belle Epoque era, while abstract art, jagged geometric lines, and dazzling mirrored surfaces add a modern touch. The hotel’s signature scent and lobby music, combined with the use of blue and green hues, create a cocooned and tranquil atmosphere, shielding guests from the bustling city life. The Hôtel Nolinski offers a sophisticated and stylish escape, where classic Parisian charm meets modern design.
