Finding the perfect Parisian hotel is a dream for many travelers, and for me, it was a happy accident. I stumbled upon this charming hotel in Saint Germain while researching for my trip to Paris. With no prior knowledge of the city, I navigated through Trip Advisor and hotels.com, hoping to uncover a hidden gem. As I studied a map of Paris, I quickly realized the historical heart of the city centered around Île de la Cité, where the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral stands tall. Pinterest articles suggested that the most desirable areas to stay were The Marais, Montemarte, and Saint Germain. And that’s where I found my treasure – a quaint hotel in Saint Germain, oozing French charm and conveniently located near the metro. I knew I had to book it before the price climbed any higher!
My initial curiosity about Saint Germain blossomed into pure delight as I delved deeper into its history and charm. I learned it was in the 6th arrondissement, known for its elegant cafes, bustling streets, and rich history. I couldn’t have asked for a more perfect base to explore Paris.
A Parisian Oasis: The Charm of My Hotel
This quaint hotel was a true embodiment of Parisian elegance. Stepping through the door, I was greeted by a charming front desk, a small lobby with a few plush chairs, and a cozy parlor in the back, which doubled as the breakfast room. The entire space was bathed in a warm glow of deep reds and rich fabrics, accentuated by a breathtaking Venetian Murano glass chandelier in the lobby. My room, #24 on the second floor (that’s the third floor for Americans), was cozy and comfortable. The elevator, though tiny, was just big enough to fit me and my luggage.
My room, though compact, was perfect for my solo adventure. I booked a standard double room, which turned out to be a king-sized bed, actually two twin beds pushed together. I quickly mastered the art of avoiding the gap between the mattresses and settled into the cozy space. The room’s irregular shape and exposed wooden beams on the ceiling added a touch of rustic charm, hinting at the building’s age.
A French Breakfast Delight: A Start to the Day
Each morning, I indulged in a delicious breakfast buffet. For €12, I could enjoy a selection of hot coffee, tea, or chocolate, a basket of fresh bread, and a delightful array of buffet items – scrambled eggs, sausage, meats, toast with jam, Nutella, cheeses, fruits, and cereals. The parlor room, with its beautiful place settings and charming ambiance, was the perfect backdrop for this delightful morning ritual. Most tables were set for two, but there was one large table for groups. Although a simple breakfast, it was enough to fuel my Parisian explorations for the day. Some mornings I had to rush out for early tours, but I always savored the opportunity to enjoy a peaceful breakfast in this charming space.
Exploring the Heart of Saint Germain: A Treasure Trove of Parisian Charm
My hotel was a central hub for exploring the wonders of Saint Germain. Just steps away, iconic cafes like Les Deux Magots and Cafe Flore beckoned with their rich history and delicious coffee. Le Bonaparte, another delightful café, stood proudly on the corner. Across the street, the Église de Saint Germain des Prés, the oldest church in Paris, stood tall, a testament to the city’s rich history. The Metro line #4 was right at the church’s doorstep, and line #10 Mabillon was just a few steps away, making it easy to navigate the city. For everyday necessities, the Monoprix supermarket was just a quick walk across Boulevard Saint Germain, and City Pharma, my personal haven for French skincare, was a short block down Rue Bonaparte.
Looking back, I couldn’t have chosen a better home base for my Parisian adventure. This charming hotel in Saint Germain was more than just a place to sleep; it was the perfect haven to experience the authentic charm and energy of this vibrant Parisian neighborhood. The convenience of the location, the unique character of the hotel, and the friendly atmosphere created a truly memorable experience. And it all started with a little bit of luck and a whole lot of Parisian magic.
