Forget the typical tourist traps. Paris is evolving, and its hotel scene is reflecting this exciting change. Forget the predictable Eiffel Tower view and touristy cafes; a new wave of boutique hotels is offering a unique and authentic Parisian experience. These charming hotels are not just places to sleep – they are a portal to the soul of the city, offering a glimpse into Parisian history, art, and culture.
A Home Away from Home: Le Petit Paris
This chic hotel, located between the Louvre and Opéra, embodies the concept of a home away from home. Designed by Sarah Lavoine, the relaxing living spaces are filled with art and design books, inviting squishy sofas, and patterned rugs creating a warm and welcoming ambiance. Even the smallest rooms, known as Cosy bedrooms, are surprisingly spacious for Paris, and the luxurious Indulgence suites boast private hammams, beautifully tiled for an ultimate relaxing experience. The rooms are adorned with crisp white, dark blue, or black walls, each featuring unique touches like large round mirrors or ceramic rice-grain reliefs. Adding to the allure of this hotel, is a small pool, a rarity in Paris, providing a refreshing escape from the bustling city.
A Slice of History: Hôtel D’Alsace
Step back in time at this historic hotel, where the legendary Oscar Wilde spent his last days. The hotel, once known as Hôtel D’Alsace, has witnessed a century of history, welcoming celebrities like Ava Gardener, Frank Sinatra, and the Aga Khan. The hotel’s grandeur is evident in its ornate galleried staircase, while Le Restaurant, housed under a grand glass roof, exudes elegance. The hotel’s sumptuous and eclectic décor, designed by Jacques Garcia, features elaborate wall moldings, grand chandeliers, and leopard print carpets creating an atmosphere of timeless charm.
Montmartre Chic: The Hidden Mansion
Escape the city’s hustle and bustle at this hidden 19th-century mansion nestled in the heart of Montmartre, the fabled artist quartier. This bourgeois-home has housed the Hermès and Rothschild families, and its charm remains intact. The five spacious and eclectic suites offer an intimate haven, while the fashionable cocktail bar and restaurant attract Parisian A-listers with its dreamy summer seating. Le Très Particulier, the hotel’s back-door cocktail bar, is a hidden gem, offering tasty tapas, tropical décor, and a bewitching summer garden.
A Celebration of French Culture: Hotel du Vin
This hotel is a celebration of French design, craftsmanship, and culture. The hotel’s blue and white palette reflects the national colors of France, while the suites pay homage to French cultural icons. The large open restaurant, crowned by a huge glass verrerie and lit with bare bulbs, invites guests to share a love of French wines and gastronomy at communal dining tables. The hotel hosts regular live music events, showcasing French hits from the 1920s to Daft Punk, and Sunday comedy nights, attracting a local crowd. Located on the edge of the hip 9th Arrondissement, the hotel provides easy access to Paris’s main sights.
Comfort and Homeliness: Adele & Jules
This unique hotel comprises two identical properties, “Adele” and “Jules”, situated just two doors apart, adding a touch of quirky character and architectural charm to the Parisian scene. The hotel boasts a low-key contemporary design, prioritizing 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 Paris-themed contemporary artwork. Even the standard doubles, despite being smaller, utilize space judiciously, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Some rooms offer terraces overlooking the courtyard, while others boast pretty balconies on the second and fifth floors.
Parisian Elegance: Hotel des Arts
This low-key but stylish hotel offers a central location, within easy reach of the Louvre and Palais Garnier opera. The décor blends the French features of the Haussmanian building with contemporary furnishings, creating a harmonious blend of old and new. Standout features include the dark Hungarian parquet in the lobby and a vintage chrome stove in the breakfast area. A subtle literary theme is evident throughout the hotel, with French novels decorating the attractive bookshelf in the lobby and a small selection in the rooms. The décor, crisp and contemporary, incorporates retro touches such as copper lamps and Deco-style patterns. Period features, like wall moldings and exposed wood beams, add an extra layer of charm to certain rooms.
Floating Paradise: Hôtel OFF Paris Seine
Experience a unique Parisian adventure at this groundbreaking hotel situated on a stylish boat on the River Seine. The innovative Elegancia hotel group, creators of Paris’s first boat hotel, has crafted a floating cocoon where guests can disconnect from urban life. The hotel’s beachy lounge bar, a popular spot for sundowners among trendy Parisians, and its laid-back vibe create a space for relaxation. Guests can kick back, dip their toes in the water, and enjoy the ethereal Seine views from their shimmering golden Fatboys. Waking up to the water views and Parisian péniches sailing by is an unforgettable experience, all at a great value price per night.
