Paris in May, with a touch of family adventure! This time around, we opted for a hotel closer to the iconic Eiffel Tower, ditching the convenient-but-slightly-farther Sofitel Paris La Défense for a new experience. Enter the Novotel Tour Eiffel, a welcoming haven for travelers seeking a blend of comfort and Parisian charm.
Location, Location, Location!
Nestled on the banks of the Seine River, the Novotel Tour Eiffel offers an unbeatable location for those seeking easy access to the City of Lights’ most famous landmark. A 20-minute stroll will lead you straight to the base of the Eiffel Tower, while the nearby Île aux Cygnes provides a tranquil escape with its own replica of the Statue of Liberty. Film buffs will recognize the bridge leading to the tower from the movie “Inception,” adding another layer of intrigue to the area. With two Metro stops within a 10-minute walk, exploring the rest of Paris is a breeze.
Comfort and Convenience: A Family-Friendly Stay
We were drawn to the Novotel Tour Eiffel for its family-friendly amenities, including a refreshing pool, a welcome respite after a day of Parisian exploration. While the hotel itself is a bit dated, the rooms are spacious, offering stunning views of the Seine and the La Défense district. Our standard room, upgraded to a superior family room thanks to our loyalty program, provided ample space for our family.
A Few Notes on the Room:
The room offered a comfortable double bed and a sofabed for our daughter, with a separate room between the main bedroom and the hall for extra space. The room’s retro charm, with its rounded windows, was a pleasant surprise. While the carpets could use an upgrade, the large bathroom with a bathtub and shower added a touch of luxury. We were pleasantly surprised to find that the internet signal reached our room despite being advertised as only available in the lobby.
Dining Options and Leisure Activities:
The hotel offers a variety of dining options, from a cozy cafe to a Japanese restaurant and a pleasant bar with a limited food menu. The cafe boasts outdoor seating overlooking the Seine, offering the perfect spot for a leisurely lunch or evening drink. The small indoor pool may not be the grandest, but it provides a welcome respite for those seeking a cool down on a hot Paris day.
A Few Room for Improvement:
The shower door’s leakage was a bit of a bummer, causing a damp carpet situation. And while the hotel offers wired internet for a fee, we believe that free and universal internet access should be standard in today’s digital age. The lack of complimentary breakfast, a common trend in Paris hotels, felt a bit like a missed opportunity.
Final Thoughts:
Despite a few minor drawbacks, the Novotel Tour Eiffel is a great option for families visiting Paris. The location is fantastic, the views are breathtaking, and the overall experience is pleasant. While a bit of a refreshment could elevate the hotel to the next level, the value for money and family-friendly amenities make it a solid choice for those seeking a comfortable and convenient Parisian stay. The Novotel Tour Eiffel may not be the most luxurious option, but it’s a great choice for families seeking a comfortable and convenient Parisian stay.
