Paris, the City of Lights, is renowned for its opulence, culture, and history. From the grand Haussmann buildings to the glimmering Seine and its elegant bridges, Paris has long captivated the imagination of travelers around the world. The city is home to nine “Palace” hotels (the epitome of luxury) and a plethora of five-star hotels vying to offer the most extraordinary accommodation. Michelin-starred dining, designer spa treatments, and tailor-made experiences are just some of the luxuries these hotels offer. Stepping into one of these hotels is like stepping into a lavish stage production, a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
A Modern Jewel in the City of Lights: The Four Seasons George V
Nestled on Avenue Hoche, the Four Seasons George V is perfectly situated for those seeking the finer things in life. Its grand Art Deco awning hints at the hotel’s rich history, dating back to the 1930s. But the interior is refreshingly contemporary, with Philippe Starck-designed décor and fusion cuisine from Nobu Matsuhisa. The hotel boasts a spacious art bookshop, a 99-seat cinema, and art-themed experiences curated by the hotel’s dedicated “art concierge,” Julie Eugène. The hotel’s spa, featuring an extraordinary 23-meter swimming pool, completes the picture.
A Timeless Icon: The Ritz Paris
Opened by César Ritz in 1898, the Ritz Paris was a pioneer in hotel innovation, introducing lifts, electricity, and private bathrooms. The modern hotel meticulously preserves its period furniture and paintings, reminiscent of Louis XV’s era, while retaining iconic features such as the controversial gold swan taps. The hotel boasts the world’s first Chanel spa, a haven of luxury with a gentle perfume wafting through the air. The gym and indoor pool are both luxurious, with the pool kept at a tropical 31°C. This is a place to step back in time and indulge in tea and madeleines in the Proust library salon, or cocktails in the Hemingway bar.
A Parisian Oasis: The Park Hyatt Paris-Vendôme
Understated sophistication is the hallmark of the Park Hyatt Paris-Vendôme, a sumptuous palace hotel renowned for its flamboyant Asian-inspired interiors and Michelin-starred restaurant, Pur. Situated in the heart of Paris, a short distance from the luxury boutiques of Place Vendôme, this hotel offers a sophisticated oasis of tranquility and luxury. Unlike other palace hotels, the Hyatt is housed in a 19th-century Haussmannian building, with no opulent history. Its appeal lies in its polished and intimate service, spacious rooms, and the Imperial Suite complete with its own spa.
A Palace with a Whimsical Touch: Le Meurice
Le Meurice, with its prime location on the arcaded Rue de Rivoli, a short stroll from the Louvre, stands out among Paris’s palace hotels. This grand hotel, while not stuffy, has a whimsical touch. Dali, the surrealist artist, was a frequent guest, and his eccentricities left a lasting impression on the hotel’s atmosphere. Le Meurice’s suites take opulence to a new level, with the Presidential Suites resembling Versailles, complete with Hungarian parquet floors and grand salons. The crown jewel is the Belle Etoile suite, with its private elevator and terrace offering 360-degree views of Paris.
A Legacy of History and Innovation: The Peninsula Paris
This historic building, dating back to the 18th century, preserves grand rooms at the front of the hotel, remnants of its past. However, the rest of the hotel has been meticulously renovated, with extraordinary attention to detail. The two internal courtyards, once dingy spaces, have been transformed into lush gardens, perfect for enjoying tea in the Winter Garden tearoom. The hotel boasts 124 rooms, including 36 suites and 10 signature suites, two of which were designed by the late Karl Lagerfeld.
