Paris, the City of Lights, is a haven for the discerning traveler, boasting a captivating blend of history, culture, and elegance. Its iconic Haussmann buildings, the gilded monuments, and the shimmering Seine River with its graceful bridges all contribute to its unparalleled charm. And then there are the hotels.
A World of Five-Star Glamour
Paris is home to an impressive collection of nine “Palace” hotels, representing the pinnacle of luxury accommodation. These opulent havens, along with a host of other five-star gems, offer an array of exceptional experiences. From Michelin-starred dining to designer spa treatments, from Rolls Royce tours to chef-curated caviar menus, these hotels transform a stay into a lavish spectacle. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime adventure (with a price tag to match).
The Four Seasons George V: Art Deco Meets Modernity
Located on Avenue Hoche, the Four Seasons George V boasts a prime location for those seeking the finest that Paris has to offer. The grand Art Deco awning hints at the hotel’s rich history, dating back to the 1930s. Inside, the hotel embraces a contemporary feel with its Philippe Starck-designed décor and the fusion cuisine of Nobu Matsuhisa. This iconic hotel also features a spacious art bookshop, a 99-seat cinema, and curated art exhibitions curated by the hotel’s dedicated “art concierge,” Julie Eugène. Completing this luxurious experience is the spacious spa with its exceptionally large 23-meter swimming pool.
The Ritz Paris: History and Opulence
The Ritz Paris, opened in 1898 by the legendary César Ritz, was a pioneer in its time. The first hotel in Paris to feature lifts, electricity, and private bathrooms, it remains a symbol of historical luxury. Preserving its period furniture and paintings à la Louis XV, the hotel retains its cult features like the gold swan taps. A Chanel spa, the world’s first, adds a touch of fragrance to the experience, while the galleried indoor pool provides a tropical escape at 31°C. The Ritz offers a glimpse into a bygone era where guests can indulge in tea and madeleines in the Proust library salon or cocktails in the Hemingway bar, living out their own Parisian fantasy.
The Hyatt Regency Paris Étoile: Tranquility in the City
Understated sophistication is the hallmark of the Hyatt Regency Paris Étoile, a sumptuous palace hotel known for its flamboyant Asian-inspired interiors and Michelin-starred restaurant, Pur. Situated in the heart of Paris, just steps away from the luxurious boutiques of Place Vendôme, this hotel stands out from its counterparts. Built in a 19th-century Haussmannian building, the Hyatt boasts a tranquil and luxurious oasis that offers a refuge from the city’s vibrant energy. The hotel’s polished and intimate service complements the classic double rooms, but for the ultimate indulgence, the Imperial Suite with its private spa is the perfect choice.
The Le Meurice: Grandiose Elegance and Artistic Heritage
Le Meurice, standing tall on the arcaded Rue de Rivoli just minutes from the Louvre, embodies grandiose elegance without feeling stuffy. This iconic hotel holds a unique artistic heritage – Dali, with his beloved ocelots, was a frequent guest, leaving a legacy of tolerance and eccentricity. Opulent suites transport guests to a world of fantasy, with the Presidential Suites on the first floor exuding the grandeur of Versailles with their Hungarian parquet and grand salons. The Belle Etoile suite, nestled on the seventh floor, stands as the crown jewel, boasting its own private elevator and terrace with 360-degree views of the city.
The Hôtel de Crillon, A Rosewood Hotel: A Blend of History and Modernity
This historic building, dating back to the 18th century, retains some of its grandest rooms at the front. A meticulous renovation transformed the rest of the hotel, creating a harmonious blend of history and modernity. The two internal courtyards, once dingy spaces, have been reborn as leafy gardens complete with tables from the Winter Garden tearoom. The hotel boasts 124 rooms, including 36 suites and 10 signature suites, two of which were designed by the legendary Karl Lagerfeld.
