Paris, the City of Lights, has always held a special charm for travelers. But while the classic tourist route – gazing at the Eiffel Tower and enjoying a hearty onion soup – remains appealing, a new breed of visitor seeks a more authentic experience. Fortunately, Paris has responded in kind, with a blooming scene of boutique hotels offering unique character and a touch of Parisian je ne sais quoi.
Step away from the predictable and discover these hidden gems, each with its own captivating story to tell.
Parisian Chic and Homely Comfort
Imagine a home away from home, but with a touch of Parisian flair. This is the vision embodied by the stylish hotel nestled between the Louvre and Opéra. Designed by the talented Sarah Lavoine, the hotel boasts relaxing living spaces adorned with art and design books, inviting sofas, and patterned rugs. Even the smallest “Cosy” rooms, while compact for Paris, are perfectly sized for a cozy stay. And for an extra dose of luxury, the “Indulgence” suites offer a beautifully tiled private hammam steam bath. The decor varies, with some rooms featuring crisp white walls while others offer a more dramatic palette of dark blues and blacks. Large round mirrors and ceramic rice-grain reliefs add a touch of sophistication. And, rarely found in Paris, the hotel even boasts a small pool, perfect for a refreshing dip.
Oscar Wilde’s Last Stand and Parisian Glamour
Step into the history of the Hôtel D’Alsace, a grand dame of Parisian hotels with a captivating past. The hotel, a haven for the artistic and glamorous throughout the 20th century, played host to such luminaries as Oscar Wilde, Ava Gardener, Frank Sinatra, and the Aga Khan. Wilde, in fact, spent his last days in a furnished apartment within the hotel’s walls. The hotel’s ornate galleried staircase leads to beautifully appointed rooms, while Le Restaurant, bathed in the glow of a grand glass roof, offers an exquisite dining experience. The hotel has been meticulously renovated by Jacques Garcia, a renowned designer known for his sumptuous and eclectic style, evident in the intricate wall moldings, grand chandeliers, and unexpected touches like leopard print carpets. This hotel is a feast for the senses, a blend of history and modern luxury that whispers of a bygone era.
Montmartre Magic and Parisian A-Listers
Escape the hustle and bustle of Paris by stepping into a hidden haven in the bohemian heart of Montmartre. This 19th-century mansion, tucked away down a charming old-world alley, boasts a rich history as the former home of members of the Hermès and Rothschild families. The five spacious and eclectic suites ooze old-world charm. But this hotel is not just about elegant accommodations. The fashionable cocktail bar and restaurant with its dreamy summer seating is a favorite among Paris’s elite. And for an extra touch of intrigue, explore Le Très Particulier, a secret back-door cocktail bar with tasty tapas, a tropical Garden of Eden décor, and a bewitching summer garden. This hidden gem, a testament to Parisian chic, is a destination for those seeking a unique and unforgettable experience.
A Celebration of French Design and Culture
Step into a vibrant celebration of French design, craftsmanship, and culture. The hotel’s blue and white color scheme pays homage to the French national colors, and each suite features a unique tribute to a French cultural icon. The large open restaurant, crowned by a huge glass verrerie and lit by strings of bare bulbs, provides a convivial space for enjoying the best of French wines and gastronomy across communal dining tables. Regular live music events transport you back in time with 1920s French hits or into the future with Daft Punk. Sunday comedy nights, performed in French, add a local touch, making this hotel a favorite among Parisians. Nestled on the edge of the hip 9th Arrondissement, this hotel offers easy access to many of Paris’s main sights.
A Homely Haven with Parisian Flair
Two identical properties, ‘Adele’ and ‘Jules’, located two doors apart, create a unique and Parisian experience. This hotel embraces a low-key contemporary aesthetic, prioritizing comfort and homeliness with its warm colors, comfortable furnishings, and soft lighting. The lobby and dining area, identical in both buildings, features a well-stocked bookshelf, comfortable sofas, and Paris-themed contemporary artwork, creating a welcoming and livable atmosphere. Even the standard double rooms, while compact, make clever use of space. Some rooms boast terraces overlooking the courtyard, while others offer pretty balconies on the second and fifth floors. This hotel is perfect for travelers seeking a comfortable and charming Parisian escape.
A Literary Retreat in the Heart of Paris
This low-key yet stylish hotel, with its central location near the Louvre and Palais Garnier opera, blends French heritage with contemporary design. The hotel boasts a distinctive mix of French architectural features of the Haussmanian building and contemporary furnishings. The dark Hungarian parquet in the lobby and a vintage chrome stove in the breakfast area add a touch of personality. The hotel embraces a subtle literary theme, with French novels adorning the attractive bookshelf in the lobby and a small selection available in the rooms. The décor is crisp and contemporary, with a touch of retro aesthetic, featuring copper lamps and Deco-style patterns on the fabrics. Some rooms even feature attractive period features like wall moldings and exposed wood beams. This hotel provides a tranquil and stylish retreat for bibliophiles and design enthusiasts alike.
A Floating Oasis on the Seine
Escape the urban bustle and embrace the serenity of the Seine at this groundbreaking hotel aboard a stylish boat. The innovative Elegancia hotel group, known for creating Paris’s first boat hotel, has crafted a floating cocoon where guests can disconnect from city life. The beachy lounge bar, a hot spot for sundowners among trendy Parisians, offers a relaxed vibe where guests can kick off their shoes, dip their toes in the water, and relax on a shimmering golden Fatboy while enjoying ethereal Seine views. The beauty of waking up to the water view and Parisian péniches sailing by is simply unforgettable. This hotel, with its affordable prices, offers a unique and enchanting experience for those seeking a tranquil escape.
