Paris, a city that captivates the imagination of every traveler, is also home to a dazzling array of luxurious hotels. Whether you’re seeking grand, historic establishments in the heart of the 1st arrondissement or intimate boutique hotels nestled in charming neighborhoods, Paris offers a haven for every taste.
But with so many options, how do you choose the best hotels in Paris? Let’s dive into Vogue’s carefully curated list to discover the hotels that will ensure an unforgettable Parisian experience.
Parisian Grande Dames: Elegance and History Redefined
Le Meurice: This iconic hotel, nestled in the heart of Paris with stunning views of the Tuileries Gardens, boasts a rich and illustrious history spanning over two centuries. Its halls have witnessed the presence of legendary figures like Elizabeth Taylor and Mata Hari. But Le Meurice’s true claim to fame lies in its role as a haven for artists and intellectuals, a space where creativity flourished. Salvador Dalí spent an entire month at Le Meurice annually for three decades, while the likes of Émile Zola, Andy Warhol, and Bob Dylan graced its corridors. Even Picasso held his wedding reception here. This artistic spirit still permeates the hotel’s vibrant energy today.
The hotel’s playful, iconoclastic interiors, featuring a surreal sculpture of two swirling columns in the lobby and a breathtaking ceiling painting by Philippe Starck’s daughter, Ara, are testaments to its commitment to art. Despite the bold design touches, the hotel’s 160 rooms and suites retain the classic elegance of a grand Parisian hotel. Plush bedrooms, delicate marble bathrooms, and an effortlessly light touch create an ambiance of refined luxury. And don’t forget the culinary delights: Le Meurice boasts a two-Michelin-starred restaurant by Alain Ducasse, offering a whimsical approach to fine dining that perfectly complements the hotel’s spirit.
New Wave Charm: Where Modern Design Meets Parisian Flair
La Fantaisie: This newcomer to the Parisian scene, located in the 9th arrondissement, immediately captures your attention with a phrase etched into the pavement outside: “Enchanté.” This welcoming sentiment perfectly encapsulates the hotel’s enchanting essence. Stepping inside, you’re transported into a whimsical forest of delights. The lobby ceiling resembles a tree canopy, petal-shaped legs support tables in the salon, and lush foliage-themed wallpaper adorns the corridors. The mastermind behind this enchanting space is Martin Brudnizki, a modern maximalist designer renowned for his work on iconic projects like Annabel’s in London and Hotel Fouquet’s in New York. Adding to the allure, La Fantaisie features a restaurant by the three-Michelin-starred chef Dominique Crenn and a rooftop bar offering panoramic views of Paris’s Haussmann facades.
Parisian Chic: A Blend of Elegance and Buzz
Hotel Costes: Situated within walking distance of the Place Vendôme, Hotel Costes is a five-star haven known for its effortlessly chic ambiance. It’s the ultimate “see-and-be-seen” spot, especially during Paris Fashion Week. Owners Jean-Louis and Gilbert Costes commissioned two of the world’s most celebrated interior designers, Jacques Garcia and Christian Liagre, to design the hotel’s three guest wings. Whether you prefer Garcia’s theatrical, cabaret-inspired spaces or Liagre’s minimalist havens, Hotel Costes offers a unique experience in each wing.
Fashionable Indulgence: Where Luxury Meets Style
Hôtel Plaza Athénée: This legendary hotel, nestled on the Avenue Montaigne itself, is synonymous with Parisian chic and fashion. Its close ties to the world of fashion are evident in its history. Christian Dior was a regular patron, and it’s said that the hotel’s cocktail bar inspired his iconic Bar jacket. Today, Hôtel Plaza Athénée remains a favorite among fashion editors and buyers during Paris Fashion Week.
The hotel’s opulence is evident in its gilded all-day eatery, Le Relais Plaza, and the Space Age glamour of Alain Ducasse’s flagship restaurant. But the true allure lies in the people-watching opportunities. Each room and suite showcases classic Gallic interior design with a modern twist, featuring eye-catching shades of gray and pink. The hotel’s top floors offer sleek, Art Deco-inspired rooms and suites, providing breathtaking rooftop views. And don’t miss the world-class spa, overseen by Dior, where soothing treatment rooms offer luxurious Dior blankets and cushions, including the best hydrafacial in the city.
A Haven of Creativity: Where Art Meets Parisian Charm
Le Royal Monceau – Raffles Paris: This grand dame hotel, tucked away in the city’s 8th arrondissement, offers a unique blend of luxury and artistic spirit. Despite its location a few blocks away from the city’s most prominent hotels, Le Royal Monceau provides a haven away from the tourist chaos. The hotel’s interiors, refurbished by Philippe Starck in the late 2000s, offer a more subdued interpretation of his signature maximalist style.
The hotel’s commitment to creativity is evident in its art concierge, offering private guided tours of Paris’s finest museums and galleries. The hotel’s rooms are adorned with custom pieces and feature desks inlaid with a map of Paris designed by Starck, highlighting his favorite spots in the city. Le Royal Monceau also offers an unparalleled culinary experience. The hotel features the first Nobu Matsuhisa restaurant in Paris, serving Japanese-Peruvian fusion cuisine in a dramatic dining room, as well as the Michelin-starred Il Carpaccio, offering decadent Italian classics. This hotel is a favorite among Parisians and international jet-setters alike.
Intimate Elegance: A Parisian Gem
Chateau des Fleurs: This charming boutique hotel, located on a quiet side street off the Champs Elysées, offers a serene escape from the Parisian bustle. Its name, Chateau des Fleurs, a nod to a former nightlife venue, evokes a sense of history and elegance. The hotel’s interiors feature cozy curves and warm, gentle colors, creating a sense of intimacy and charm. The rooms are beautifully appointed, with thoughtful details like a bathtub positioned near the bed in a duplex suite and a skylight offering a view of the Parisian skies. Even during rainy days, the sound of rain on the roof provides a soothing backdrop.
The hotel’s inviting bar and lobby area, with rattan screens, bobbin tables, and chairs with long tassels, create an atmosphere of comfort and hospitality. The hotel also features a small spa with two treatment rooms and a gym in the basement. Chateau des Fleurs is a small, cozy hotel with a lot of style, offering a truly Parisian experience.
