Paris, the City of Lights, is renowned not only for its iconic landmarks and romantic ambiance but also for its exquisite hotels. Whether you’re seeking a palatial experience in the heart of the city or a charming boutique stay in a hidden gem, Paris offers a haven for discerning travelers. But with so many options to choose from, navigating the Parisian hotel landscape can feel overwhelming. Fear not, for Vogue has curated a selection of the most unforgettable hotels in Paris, each with a distinct personality and a dedication to unparalleled luxury.
Grand Dame Glamour: Le Meurice
Le Meurice, a majestic hotel steeped in history, occupies a prime location overlooking the Tuileries Gardens. This opulent haven has played host to a dazzling array of personalities, from the iconic Elizabeth Taylor to the enigmatic Mata Hari. Its corridors have echoed with the footsteps of literary giants like Émile Zola, artistic luminaries like Andy Warhol and Bob Dylan, and even witnessed the wedding reception of Pablo Picasso. The rich artistic heritage of Le Meurice is reflected in its playful and iconoclastic interiors. The lobby is dominated by a mesmerizing surreal sculpture, a testament to the hotel’s embrace of creative expression. The central dining space boasts a breathtaking ceiling mural designed by Ara Starck, adding another layer of artistic grandeur. The hotel’s 160 rooms and suites exude classic Parisian elegance, adorned in soothing creams and powder blues, while the bathrooms are elegantly finished with delicate marble. And for those seeking a culinary experience to match the hotel’s grandeur, the two-Michelin-starred restaurant by Alain Ducasse offers a whimsical take on fine dining, perfectly aligning with the hotel’s overall spirit.
Enchanted Forest: La Fantaisie
Step into La Fantaisie, a new hotel in Paris’s 9th arrondissement, and you’ll be greeted with the enchanting phrase “Enchanté,” etched into the pavement. The lobby ceiling, resembling a tree canopy, sets the stage for a whimsical journey through a forest of delights. Petal-shaped table legs and lush foliage-themed wallpaper, reminiscent of the whimsical world of “Where The Wild Things Are,” transport you to a realm of playful imagination. The hotel’s interior design, masterfully orchestrated by Martin Brudnizki, a modern maximalist extraordinaire, is a testament to his unique vision. Beyond the enchanting interiors, La Fantaisie boasts a restaurant helmed by the renowned three-Michelin-starred chef, Dominique Crenn, and a rooftop bar offering breathtaking views of Paris’s Haussmann facades.
Parisian Chic: Hotel Costes
For a glimpse into Parisian society’s “see-and-be-seen” scene, Hotel Costes is the place to be. Located within walking distance of Place Vendome, its courtyard restaurant is a popular gathering spot for celebrities and fashionistas during Paris Fashion Week. Beyond its star-studded allure, Hotel Costes offers an exceptional hospitality experience, meticulously crafted by two of the world’s leading interior designers: Jacques Garcia and Christian Liagre. Guests can choose between Garcia’s theatrical, cabaret-inspired rooms or Liagre’s minimalist havens, both meticulously designed to cater to diverse tastes.
Fashion Forward: Hôtel Plaza Athénée
For those seeking a haven in the heart of Parisian fashion, Hôtel Plaza Athénée is the ultimate destination. Situated on the prestigious Avenue Montaigne, it offers breathtaking views of the Eiffel Tower, making it a perfect vantage point for observing the city’s iconic skyline. With its close ties to the world of fashion, Hôtel Plaza Athénée has long been a favorite among fashion editors and buyers. Christian Dior, a regular patron whose couture salon graced the same street, is said to have drawn inspiration for his iconic Bar jacket from the hotel’s cocktail bar. The hotel’s opulence is evident in its gilded all-day eatery, Le Relais Plaza, and its Alain Ducasse flagship restaurant, which exudes Space Age glamour. The rooms and suites are adorned with classic Gallic interior stylings, reinterpreted in eye-catching shades of gray and pink. The hotel’s top floors offer a unique experience, with sleeker Art Deco-inspired rooms and suites that boast breathtaking rooftop views. And for a touch of pampering, the hotel’s world-class spa, overseen by the iconic Dior team, provides a sanctuary of relaxation. Soothing treatment rooms, complete with luxurious Dior blankets and cushions, will leave you feeling refreshed and ready to explore the city’s vibrant streets.
Artistic Haven: Le Royal Monceau – Raffles Paris
Tucked away on a boulevard radiating out from the Arc de Triomphe, Le Royal Monceau – Raffles Paris offers a respite from the city’s hustle and bustle. Its grand entranceway sets the stage for a haven of artistic refinement. The hotel’s interiors, meticulously curated by Philippe Starck in the late 2000s, embrace a more subdued approach to the designer’s signature maximalist aesthetic, evoking the glamorous era of its origins in the 1930s. Le Royal Monceau celebrates creativity in all its forms, offering guests a dedicated art concierge who can arrange private tours of Paris’s most renowned museums and galleries. The hotel’s rooms are adorned with custom pieces and feature desks inlaid with a unique map of Paris designed by Starck himself, highlighting his favorite Parisian haunts. The hotel’s culinary offerings are equally impressive, with Nobu Matsuhisa’s first restaurant in Paris, serving Japanese-Peruvian fusion cuisine, and the Michelin-starred Il Carpaccio, a collaboration with the acclaimed Da Vittorio restaurant in Bergamo, offering decadent Italian delights.
Parisian Charmer: Chateau des Fleurs
On a quiet side street off the Champs-Élysées, nestled in a 1910 building, lies the charming Chateau des Fleurs. Named after a former nightlife venue, this elegant boutique hotel exudes an intimate and immaculate ambiance. The hotel’s décor is a symphony of soft hues, with pink, beige, and cream dominating the palette, punctuated by touches of terracotta and rust-colored tile, reminiscent of a vintage candy shop. The rooms are meticulously appointed, creating a sense of a private Parisian garret, with every detail thoughtfully considered. A highlight of the hotel is the inviting bar and lobby area, featuring rattan screens and cozy seating areas perfect for enjoying a cafe au lait or an aperitif. For those seeking a moment of relaxation, the hotel offers a small spa with two treatment rooms and a gym in the basement. Chateau des Fleurs is a testament to the charm and elegance of Parisian hospitality.
Conclusion
From grand dames with rich histories to charming boutique hotels, Paris offers a diverse range of hotel experiences, each catering to a unique traveler. Whether you’re drawn to artistic grandeur, playful whimsy, or Parisian chic, these hotels are sure to provide an unforgettable stay. So, when planning your next Parisian adventure, be sure to explore these exceptional hotels, each a testament to the city’s enduring allure and its dedication to providing unparalleled luxury and hospitality.
