Paris, the City of Lights, holds a special place in the hearts of lovers everywhere. The glimmering Seine River, the graceful arches of its bridges, and the candlelit cafes lining its wide streets – all conspire to create an atmosphere of romance. And if you’re looking to make your Parisian escapade even more special, you need look no further than the city’s enchanting hotels.
Each hotel is a unique tapestry woven from history, luxury, and a touch of Parisian flair. From grand palaces with breathtaking views to intimate hideaways steeped in history, there’s a romantic haven waiting to be discovered.
Grand Palaces with Unforgettable Views
Imagine spending your nights in a former mansion once owned by Napoleon’s great-nephew, with unobstructed views of the iconic Eiffel Tower. This is the reality at the Shangri-La, a palatial Parisian pied-à-terre that exudes timeless elegance. Step inside and be greeted by a wedding-cake-like facade, grand halls that evoke the grandeur of Versailles, and a magnificently restored grand staircase. The calm and classic color scheme of duck-egg blue, cream, and soft gold creates a sense of serenity. Each room is a work of art, adorned with intricate marquetry desks, subtly embossed wallpaper, and delicate orchids. The balconies overlooking the manicured gardens or the spacious panoramic terraces offer breathtaking views of the city.
Belle Époque Glamour and Exquisite Detail
Step into a world of belle époque glamour and five-star luxury at Maison Souquet, a bewitching haven for lovers. This magical address, once a maison close frequented by wealthy gentlemen, has been transformed into a dreamlike paradise by renowned designer Jacques Garcia. Blood-red interiors crafted from the finest silk, gold gilt, Venetian glass, and sculpted wood create a sense of luxurious intimacy. The attention to detail is exquisite, with 19th-century furniture, original chinoiserie, and flickering scented candles crafted by an artisan candle-maker in Lyon.
Contemporary Chic and Whimsical Design
Le Royal Monceau Raffles is a modern interpretation of the ultra-luxe palace hotel, blending contemporary design with refined elegance. The Art Deco awning pays homage to the hotel’s rich history, while the interiors, designed by Philippe Starck, embrace a whimsical “Alice in Wonderland” theme. Striped optical-illusion wallpaper in the corridors and a maze-like mirrored spa add a playful touch, while the smart courtyard with its turquoise pool provides a tranquil retreat.
Decadent Retro Retreat
In the heart of the fashionable Marais district lies the deliciously decadent Bourg Tibourg, a retro retreat that embraces bold colors and oriental design motifs juxtaposed with neo-gothic décor. The plain frontage belies the treasure trove of tasteful opulence that awaits inside. Luxurious fabrics, kitsch details, and meticulously chosen antique furniture combine to create a sense of sophisticated whimsy. And for a touch of Parisian cinema, guests can select a film from the hotel’s library and enjoy a private screening in their room.
History and Celebrity Charm
Hôtel D’Alsace, with its impressive history and celebrity clientele, offers a unique glimpse into the glamour of Parisian life. Oscar Wilde, Ava Gardener, Frank Sinatra, and the Aga Khan – all have graced its halls. The 20 rooms, each a blend of Empire style and Baroque detailing, exude a sophisticated and elegant atmosphere.
Modern Parisian Chic
The Hôtel de Crillon, a former mansion built for Napoleon III’s half-brother, has been renovated in 2015 to create a modern Parisian masterpiece. The pared-down elegance reflects the signature style of Jacques Garcia, with elements of Second Empire, Deco pillars, and contemporary art pieces. The spacious rooms and suites offer breathtaking views of the Jardin des Champs-Élysées or the charming interior courtyard.
Intimate and Luxurious
The Hôtel de Vendôme, with its intimate ambiance and exquisite details, is the perfect place to escape the bustling city. The ground-floor lounges, with their dim lighting, heavy red-velvet drapes, and opulent furnishings, evoke the charm of a private gentlemen’s club. This 1871 mansion, once home to the Hermès and Rothschild families, retains its bourgeois-home charm, with five spacious suites each offering a unique atmosphere. The lush walled garden and the nearby pétanque court provide a tranquil escape.
Timeless Elegance and Parisian Flair
The Hôtel Plaza Athénéé, a grand 18th-century building on the Place Valois, embodies timeless elegance and Parisian sophistication. The imposing spiral stairwell and refined interiors, designed by Pierre-Yves Rochon, blend classic elements with a contemporary touch. High-quality materials, luxurious fabrics, designer wallpaper, and elegant furnishings create an atmosphere of refined luxury.
Sophisticated Blend of Belle Epoque and Modern
The Nolinski, a reimagined Avenue de l’Opéra hotel, offers a sophisticated blend of Belle Epoque charm and modern elegance. Marble surfaces, suites named after Hemingway and Josephine Baker, and contemporary touches such as abstract art and dazzling mirrored surfaces create a uniquely Parisian ambiance. The signature scent, lobby music, and use of blue and green hues create a sense of tranquility, a haven from the bustling city outside.
