Paris, the city of love, is getting ready to welcome football fans from around the globe for Euro 2016. The atmosphere is sure to be electric, with the Eiffel Tower becoming the heart of the festivities. A fan zone will be set up right by the iconic landmark, offering big-screen broadcasts of matches, live concerts, and a mini village complete with bars, restaurants, and stalls.
The city’s hotels are filling up fast, especially the budget-friendly options. While prices for cheaper hotels have skyrocketed, four- and five-star establishments haven’t seen the same price increases. This is a fantastic opportunity to splurge on a luxurious stay while experiencing the football fever that will sweep through Paris.
Boutique Hotels with a Parisian Flair
The Telegraph has carefully selected the best Paris hotels for football fans, considering their proximity to nightlife, stadiums, and tourist attractions. Here are some of the top picks:
1. The Hôtel du Nord: This plush boutique hotel is located in SoPi, a vibrant neighborhood in northern Paris, known for its unique blend of old-world charm and modern hipness. You’ll find classic cabarets alongside trendy bars and restaurants, and the iconic Moulin Rouge is just a short walk away.
2. Hôtel de France: Tucked away on a historic street in the heart of Le Marais, this hotel combines the area’s rich history with the design flair of Christian Lacroix. It offers a stylish yet intimate atmosphere, making it an ideal secret hideaway. The 17 uniquely designed rooms feature bold colors and luxurious fabrics, while the vintage bistro serves a delectable breakfast and transforms into a guest-only bar later in the day.
3. Mama Shelter: Located in an offbeat corner of northeast Paris, this hotel offers a unique blend of urban chic and budget-friendly comforts. The rooms are modern and stylish, with concrete accents and practical amenities like iMacs and microwaves. But it’s the buzzy open-plan ground floor that truly sets this hotel apart. It functions as a laid-back lounge, cocktail bar, restaurant, club, and concept store all in one. Mama Shelter also pays great attention to service, with concierges providing guests with insider tips on the best things to see and do.
4. Hôtel Récamier: Situated on a historic street between Montparnasse and St-Germain-des-Prés, this hotel is perfect for football fans who want to easily access both Stade de France and Parc des Princes. It boasts a unique theme inspired by Juliette Récamier, a renowned muse and beauty. Each floor represents a different era of her life, blending historicism with contemporary design. The hotel also offers beautiful salons, a Japanese-style garden, and a luxurious basement spa with a swimming pool.
Luxurious Hotels with a Sporty Touch
5. Hôtel Eiffel Trocadéro: Located just steps away from the Eiffel Tower, this hotel offers a modern take on Parisian elegance. The glass-and-steel 1960s building features stylish interiors designed by Christophe Pillet, as well as an all-day Franco-American restaurant with its own vegetable garden and a surprising addition – chickens! With 456 rooms and suites, the hotel feels spacious and comfortable, offering stunning views of the Eiffel Tower from select rooms.
6. Hôtel Molitor: This hotel is as close as you can get to a resort hotel in Paris. Its legendary Art Deco swimming pool has been reborn as a hotel and sports club after 20 years of abandonment. The hotel boasts a sporty theme with stained glass sporting scenes and stylish bedrooms replacing the former changing cubicles. Under the supervision of star chef Yannick Alleno, the sprawling restaurant is a gourmet update of the Parisian brasserie. Don’t miss the planted roof terrace which offers a tranquil escape in the afternoon and transforms into a vibrant DJ spot in the evening.
Whether you seek a charming boutique hotel or a luxurious resort experience, Paris offers a wide range of accommodation options for football fans. Enjoy the electric atmosphere of Euro 2016 while indulging in Parisian elegance and hospitality.