Paris, the City of Lights, is a place where dreams come true, especially when it comes to finding the perfect hotel. It’s a city overflowing with luxury, from the grand palaces of the 1st arrondissement to the charming boutique hotels tucked away in hidden corners. No matter your preference, you’ll find a hotel that caters to your every need and desire.
So, where to start? Let’s explore some of the most captivating and unforgettable hotels Paris has to offer.
Stepping Back in Time: Le Meurice
Imagine a hotel that has witnessed history unfold before its very eyes. Le Meurice is more than just a hotel; it’s a living legend. It’s stood proudly in the heart of Paris for over two centuries, hosting iconic figures like Elizabeth Taylor and Mata Hari. But what truly sets this hotel apart is its rich history as a haven for artists and thinkers.
Salvador Dalí, the surrealist master, called Le Meurice his home for a month each year for three decades! You can feel the legacy of these creative giants in every corner of the hotel. From the lobby, dominated by a surreal sculpture of intertwining columns, to the dining room with a breathtaking, painted ceiling, Le Meurice embraces a playful and iconoclastic spirit.
Step into your room, and you’ll be greeted by the classic elegance of a grand Parisian hotel, reimagined with a touch of modern sophistication. Soft creams and powder blues adorn the plush bedrooms, while the bathrooms are adorned with delicate marble.
And if you’re seeking the ultimate culinary experience, Le Meurice’s two-Michelin-starred restaurant, led by the renowned chef Alain Ducasse, promises a whimsical approach to fine dining.
A Forest of Enchantment: La Fantaisie
Leave the ordinary behind and step into a world of fantasy and wonder at La Fantaisie, a brand-new hotel in the 9th arrondissement. The moment you arrive, you’ll be greeted by the phrase “Enchanté” etched into the pavement.
The lobby ceiling is a work of art, resembling a tree canopy, while petal-shaped legs support the tables in the salon. The lush foliage wallpaper in the corridors is like something out of a children’s fairytale.
This maximalist masterpiece, designed by Martin Brudnizki, is a testament to his talent for creating unforgettable spaces. La Fantaisie doesn’t stop there. It boasts a restaurant led by three-Michelin-starred chef Dominique Crenn, and a rooftop bar with breathtaking views of the Parisian rooftops.
Where Style and Stardom Collide: Hotel Costes
Imagine a hotel that attracts celebrities and fashion icons alike, right in the heart of Paris. Hotel Costes is a haven for the stylish and the celebrated, located just a stone’s throw from the Place Vendome.
The courtyard restaurant, a popular spot during Paris Fashion Week, is where you’ll rub shoulders with the fashion elite. But Hotel Costes is more than just a “see-and-be-seen” destination.
Renowned interior designers Jacques Garcia and Christian Liagre have crafted the hotel’s three guest wings into two distinct styles. Choose between Garcia’s theatrical, cabaret-like dens or Liagre’s minimalist temples—the choice is yours.
Chic Shopping & Stellar Views: Hôtel Plaza Athénée
For those who want to indulge in the world of fashion and luxury, Hôtel Plaza Athénée is the perfect choice. Situated on the iconic Avenue Montaigne, this hotel offers unrivaled views of the Eiffel Tower.
It’s a haven for fashionistas, with close ties to the world of fashion. Christian Dior was a frequent guest, and it’s said that the iconic Bar jacket was inspired by the shape of the hotel’s cocktail bar.
Hôtel Plaza Athénée offers a range of culinary delights, from the gilded Le Relais Plaza to the Space Age glamour of Alain Ducasse’s flagship restaurant.
And when it comes to accommodations, the rooms and suites are decked out in classic Parisian style, with a twist of modern elegance. The top floors boast Art Deco-inspired suites with expansive loft-like spaces and breathtaking rooftop views.
Don’t forget to experience the world-class spa, a haven of tranquility buried deep within the hotel. The soothing treatment rooms feature luxurious Dior blankets and cushions, and offer the best hydrafacial in the city.
Artistic Oasis: Le Royal Monceau – Raffles Paris
Located a short distance from the grand hotels of the 8th arrondissement, Le Royal Monceau – Raffles Paris offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Step inside, and you’ll be greeted by a sophisticated haven, designed by the renowned Phillipe Starck. The hotel’s interiors embrace a subdued elegance, reflecting the glamorous heyday of the 1930s.
But Le Royal Monceau is much more than just a beautiful hotel. It’s a haven for creativity, offering a pioneering art concierge service that provides private guided tours of the city’s most prestigious museums and galleries.
The hotel’s rooms are light and airy, each featuring custom pieces and a map of Paris created by Starck himself, highlighting his favorite spots in the city.
The hotel’s culinary offerings are equally impressive. Nobu Matsuhisa’s first Paris restaurant, offering Japanese-Peruvian fusion cuisine, and the Michelin-starred Il Carpaccio, a collaboration with the renowned Da Vittorio restaurant in Bergamo, provide a gastronomic experience that’s both sophisticated and exciting.
Parisian Charm: Chateau des Fleurs
Step into a world of intimate elegance at Chateau des Fleurs, a boutique hotel nestled on a quiet side street off the Champs Elysées.
This charming 1910 building is overflowing with flowers, creating an atmosphere of warmth and tranquility. The interior design is a harmonious blend of soft pastels and delicate textures, reminiscent of an old-fashioned candy store.
The rooms are carefully appointed, offering a sense of cozy comfort. You might find a bathtub positioned near the bed, a skylight that allows you to enjoy the Parisian skies, and a cleverly designed window shade for those who crave a deep sleep.
Downstairs, the inviting bar and lobby area is a haven for relaxation, with rattan screens, bobbin tables, and chairs with long tassels. The hotel also offers a small spa with two treatment rooms and a gym.
Choosing Your Parisian Escape
From the opulent history of Le Meurice to the whimsical charm of La Fantaisie, Paris has something to offer every traveler. Whether you’re seeking a luxurious haven, a creative retreat, or a cozy escape from the city’s hustle and bustle, these hotels will ensure an unforgettable Parisian experience.
