Paris’s 16th arrondissement, a district often overlooked by tourists, is a hidden treasure trove of cultural and architectural wonders. From renowned museums like the Musée de l’Homme and Palais Galliera to iconic landmarks like the Trocadéro and the Eiffel Tower, the 16th arrondissement offers a unique blend of history and contemporary art. This article will explore some of the best hotels in this vibrant district, providing you with a glimpse into their luxurious offerings and charming ambiance.
A Step Back in Time: The Hôtel Plaza Athénéé
Nestled within a beautiful 19th-century mansion, the Hôtel Plaza Athénéé, a prestigious member of Relais & Châteaux, reopened its doors in September 2021 after a complete makeover by renowned designer Laura Gonzalez. Gone is the eccentric décor of Bambi Sloan, replaced by bespoke furniture and exquisite French craftsmanship throughout the 50 rooms and suites. Each space invites you into the world of a seasoned traveler, filled with rare books, art pieces, and unique objects gathered from around the globe. The hotel’s magnificent historical library, formerly the Thiers Foundation, is a perfect setting to enjoy cocktails infused with aromatic herbs. Under the skilled guidance of Michelin-starred chef Julien Dumas (formerly of Lucas Carton), the restaurant delivers exquisite cuisine, showcasing local and seasonal ingredients with a focus on seafood. The Spa Guerlain, featuring three new treatment rooms, including a double room, a hammam, a sauna, and an indoor pool, completes the hotel’s transformation.
What sets this hotel apart? The serene and picturesque garden, a former airfield that once saw hot air balloons take flight in the 18th century, adds a unique touch of bucolic charm.
Good to know: Guests can savor the chef’s culinary creations exclusively at dinner, as lunch is reserved for members of the hotel’s exclusive club.
A Boutique Gem Near the Trocadéro: The Hôtel Plaza Tour Eiffel
Just steps away from the Trocadéro gardens and a 20-minute stroll from the Eiffel Tower, the Hôtel Plaza Tour Eiffel offers a cozy boutique-hotel ambiance following its complete renovation at the beginning of the year. The hotel welcomes guests with a beautiful black marble reception desk, stylish furniture (Mies van der Rohe armchairs, Starck lamps, and Max Ingrand lighting) in the lobby and rooms, and 41 rooms, including two Junior Suites. The hotel provides a peaceful haven in a quiet street, close to numerous museums and iconic landmarks of the French capital. The rooms are bright and airy with large windows, and many offer terraces and balconies, some with breathtaking views of the Eiffel Tower. Guests can unwind in the ground-floor lounge bar, the wood-paneled fitness center, or enjoy a partnership with a prestigious neighboring spa (Villa Thalgo & SPA). The Plaza Tour Eiffel is undoubtedly one of the most modern and beautiful hotels in the area.
What makes this hotel stand out? Its strategic location, just 5 minutes from the Trocadéro and nestled in a tranquil street, provides the best of both worlds.
Good to know: The hotel offers a spa with a large salt water hammam, a relaxing pool, and aquatraining facilities, in partnership with the Villa Thalgo & SPA, just a 5-minute walk away.
A Modern Oasis: The Hôtel Mama Shelter
Opened in 2018, this gleaming glass cube, a former postal sorting center in the heart of the 16th arrondissement, is home to the Hôtel Mama Shelter, one of the most trendy hotels in the capital. The décor, designed by the iconic Philippe Starck, showcases his signature style: mirrors adorning the walls, shelves overflowing with a mix of objects, African totems, and books. The 59 rooms and suites are infused with multicultural influences from Africa, Asia, and South America. The furnishings blend tree trunk coffee tables, leather armchairs, and African stools, creating a unique and eclectic ambiance. “It’s an unusual place that invites you to travel,” emphasizes Philippe Starck. The hotel’s vibrant social space, a true hub of activity, serves as a bar, pastry shop, and tea salon. The menu features Mediterranean flavors reinvented by chef Adam Bentalha.
What sets this hotel apart? The terrace on the first floor, where guests can indulge in delectable tapas, offers a delightful outdoor space for relaxation and dining.
Good to know: The hotel boasts an expansive club featuring a 22-meter long pool with an ochre bottom and white stripes, evoking the ambiance of Roland Garros.
