Gone are the days of predictable Parisian vacations, filled with Eiffel Tower selfies and onion soup in tourist traps. Today’s travelers crave something more authentic, more unique. And thankfully, Paris’s hotel scene has embraced this change, offering a wealth of boutique hotels that cater to the discerning traveler. From chic hideaways in Pigalle to charming country-style lodges in Montmartre, these one-of-a-kind accommodations provide a glimpse into the true soul of Paris.
Parisian Chic: A Selection of Boutique Gems
Imagine a home away from home, but with Parisian flair. That’s the feeling you get at this stylish hotel, tucked away between the Louvre and the Opéra. Designed by Sarah Lavoine, the living spaces are a haven of comfort, filled with art and design books, plush sofas, and patterned rugs. Each of the 37 rooms and suites, even the smallest “Cosy” bedrooms, are a generous size for Paris. The Indulgence suites offer an added touch of luxury with private hammam steam baths. Crisp white, dark blue, or black walls set the scene, adorned with large round mirrors or ceramic reliefs. And in a rare treat for Paris, there’s a small pool for guests to enjoy.
This hotel boasts a rich history, having welcomed iconic figures throughout the decades. Oscar Wilde, the most famous of them all, rented a furnished apartment here, then known as the Hôtel D’Alsace, before his passing in 1900. Throughout the 20th century, Ava Gardener, Frank Sinatra, and the Aga Kahn graced its halls. The ornate galleried staircase leads to rooms arranged around a grand central space, while Le Restaurant, bathed in the glow of a grand glass roof, offers a unique dining experience. The hotel has been completely renovated by Jacques Garcia, known for his sumptuous and eclectic style. Expect elaborate wall moldings, grand chandeliers, and leopard print carpets – a true testament to his design vision.
Tucked away in the heart of Montmartre, down a charming old-world alley, lies a hidden 19th-century mansion. Once home to members of the Hermès and Rothschild families, this architectural gem exudes Parisian chic. The five suites are spacious and eclectic, each with its own unique personality. The fashionable cocktail bar and restaurant, with its dreamy summer seating, attracts a who’s who of Parisian A-listers. But the real gem is Le Très Particulier, the back-door cocktail bar, with its tropical Garden of Eden décor and enchanting summer garden, offering a taste of Parisian nightlife.
This hotel celebrates the best of French design, craftsmanship, and culture. The blue and white color palette nods to France’s national colors, while suites pay homage to French cultural icons. The large open restaurant, crowned by a huge glass verrerie and lit by strings of bare bulbs, is a haven for wine and gastronomy enthusiasts. The communal dining tables create a welcoming atmosphere where guests can share their love for French cuisine. Regular live music events featuring everything from 1920s French hits to Daft Punk keep the atmosphere lively. Sunday comedy nights, performed in French, cater to a local crowd. Located on the edge of the hip 9th Arrondissement, the hotel offers easy access to Paris’s main sights.
Unveiling Parisian Charm: More Boutique Treasures
This hotel is a unique proposition, comprising two identical properties, “Adele” and “Jules”, located just two doors apart. This architectural quirk adds a touch of idiosyncratic character, reflecting the unique nature of Parisian architecture. The low-key contemporary look emphasizes comfort and homeliness, with warm colors, comfortable furnishings, and soft lighting. The lobby/dining area, identical in both buildings, features a well-stocked bookshelf, comfortable sofas, and Parisian-themed contemporary artwork. This homely and livable feel extends even to the smaller standard doubles, where space is used efficiently. Some rooms boast terraces overlooking the courtyard, while others offer charming balconies on the second and fifth floors.
This low-key yet stylish hotel enjoys a central location, within easy reach of the Louvre and Palais Garnier opera. The décor seamlessly blends French features of the Haussmanian building with contemporary furnishings. The dark Hungarian parquet in the lobby and a vintage chrome stove in the breakfast area add a touch of elegance. The subtle literary theme, with French novels decorating the attractive bookshelf in the lobby and a small selection in the rooms, adds a unique character. The crisp and contemporary décor, with touches of a retro aesthetic – such as copper lamps and Deco-style patterns on the fabrics – creates a sophisticated atmosphere. Some rooms feature attractive period features, including wall moldings and exposed wood beams, adding a touch of historic charm.
Forget everything you know about Parisian hotels. This groundbreaking hotel offers a truly unique experience, floating on a stylish boat on the River Seine. The innovative Elegancia hotel group, responsible for Paris’s first boat hotel, has created a floating cocoon where guests can disconnect from urban life. The beachy lounge bar is a hot spot for trendy Parisians seeking sundowners with ethereal Seine views. Relaxed and inviting, this hotel encourages guests to kick off their shoes, dip their toes in the water, and unwind on a shimmering golden Fatboy. Waking up to a water view and Parisian péniches sailing by is a truly magical experience, offering an unforgettable escape.
Embracing Parisian Uniqueness: Finding Your Boutique Haven
From historic mansions to chic boats on the Seine, Paris’s boutique hotels offer a diverse range of experiences. Each hotel is a unique creation, reflecting the city’s rich history, culture, and design. Embrace the unexpected and discover the hidden gems that lie beyond the well-trodden tourist paths. Your perfect Parisian adventure awaits.
