Paris, a city that sparks the imagination of travelers worldwide, boasts a plethora of luxury hotels that cater to every taste. From grand, historic palaces in the heart of the city to trendy boutique hotels tucked away in charming neighborhoods, the City of Lights offers a lodging experience unlike any other.
But navigating this vast landscape of accommodations can be overwhelming. Fear not, dear reader, for we’ve curated a selection of Parisian gems, guaranteed to make your stay unforgettable.
Historic Grandeur Meets Modern Flair: Le Meurice
Le Meurice, a venerable institution steeped in Parisian history, stands proudly overlooking the Tuileries Gardens. Its rich past has witnessed luminaries like Elizabeth Taylor and Mata Hari grace its halls. But its true allure lies in its legacy as a haven for artistic brilliance. From Salvador Dalí, who frequented the hotel for three decades, to Andy Warhol and Bob Dylan, the corridors of Le Meurice have echoed with the footsteps of creative giants.
Le Meurice is a testament to the marriage of tradition and contemporary design. The lobby is a captivating blend of classic Parisian grandeur and modern whimsy, featuring a surreal sculpture of intertwined columns. The hotel’s iconic spirit is further embodied in the breathtaking ceiling mural, created by Philippe Starck’s daughter, Ara, during the hotel’s 2007 revamp.
Ascending to one of the hotel’s 160 rooms and suites, you’ll be greeted with timeless elegance. The classic Parisian style shines through in plush bedrooms and exquisitely marbled bathrooms, adorned in calming hues of cream and powder blue.
Le Meurice’s culinary offerings are equally impressive. The flagship two-Michelin-starred restaurant by Alain Ducasse reimagines fine dining with a touch of whimsy, mirroring the hotel’s playful spirit.
Where Fantasy Meets Reality: La Fantaisie
Step into La Fantaisie, a newcomer nestled in Paris’s 9th arrondissement, and you’ll be greeted with the phrase “Enchanté” etched on the pavement, setting the tone for an unforgettable experience. This enchanting hotel is a whimsical forest of delights. The lobby ceiling, resembling a verdant canopy, invites you into a realm of fantasy. The salon features tables supported by petal-shaped legs, while foliage-themed wallpaper transports you to a world straight out of “Where the Wild Things Are.”
The mastermind behind this magical creation is none other than Martin Brudnizki, the modern maximalist design maestro known for his work on Annabel’s in London and Hotel Fouquet’s in New York. La Fantaisie also boasts a restaurant helmed by the renowned three-Michelin-starred chef, Dominique Crenn, and a rooftop bar offering stunning views of Paris’s Haussmannian facades.
The Epitome of Parisian Chic: Hotel Costes
Hotel Costes, a five-star haven located within walking distance of the Place Vendome, is a Parisian institution. During Paris Fashion Week, its courtyard restaurant transforms into a coveted hotspot for the “see-and-be-seen” crowd. But beyond its social buzz, Hotel Costes holds a prominent place in Parisian hospitality.
The hotel’s owners, Jean-Louis and Gilbert Costes, enlisted the expertise of Jacques Garcia and Christian Liagre, two of the world’s most celebrated interior designers, to create its three guest wings. Garcia’s theatrical, cabaret-like designs stand in stark contrast to Liaigre’s minimalist aesthetic, offering guests a choice between two distinct experiences.
A Fashionista’s Paradise: Hôtel Plaza Athénée
For those who wish to immerse themselves in the world of Parisian fashion, Hôtel Plaza Athénée is the ultimate destination. Situated on the prestigious Avenue Montaigne, the hotel offers unparalleled views of the Eiffel Tower and a unique connection to the world of fashion.
Christian Dior, a frequent guest at the hotel, even drew inspiration from its iconic cocktail bar for his legendary Bar jacket. Every season, the hotel serves as a favorite among editors and buyers during Paris Fashion Week.
From the gilded splendor of Le Relais Plaza to the Space Age glamour of Alain Ducasse’s flagship restaurant, Hôtel Plaza Athénée offers a culinary experience to match its fashion-forward spirit. Each room and suite is adorned with classic Gallic style, reimagined in vibrant shades of gray and pink. The hotel’s top floors feature sleek, Art Deco-inspired spaces with breathtaking rooftop views.
Hôtel Plaza Athénée’s world-class spa, designed by Dior, is a sanctuary of indulgence. Its treatment rooms are equipped with luxurious Dior blankets and cushions, offering the ultimate Parisian pampering experience.
A Haven of Artistic Inspiration: Le Royal Monceau – Raffles Paris
Le Royal Monceau – Raffles Paris, tucked away in a quiet boulevard radiating from the Arc de Triomphe, offers a unique blend of sophisticated luxury and artistic flair. Its slightly off-the-beaten-path location, while still within easy reach of major Parisian attractions, provides a peaceful retreat from the city’s bustling heart.
Step inside and be greeted by a haven of refined design, crafted by the renowned Philippe Starck. His signature maximalist aesthetic takes on a more understated approach at Le Royal Monceau, reflecting the hotel’s elegant origins in the 1930s.
Creativity is woven into the very fabric of the hotel. From the art concierge, offering exclusive guided tours of Paris’s finest museums and galleries, to the custom artwork adorning the walls of its light-filled rooms, Le Royal Monceau inspires and delights. The hotel’s desks are even inlaid with a custom map of Paris, highlighting some of Philippe Starck’s favorite Parisian spots.
Le Royal Monceau offers a culinary journey like no other. Nobu Matsuhisa’s first Paris restaurant, showcasing Japanese-Peruvian fusion cuisine, graces the hotel, housed within a dramatic dining room. The Michelin-starred Il Carpaccio, a collaboration with the celebrated Da Vittorio restaurant in Bergamo, offers decadent interpretations of Italian classics.
A Parisian Retreat: Chateau des Fleurs
Nestled on a quiet street near the Champs Elysées, Chateau des Fleurs is a haven of tranquility. This elegant boutique hotel, housed in a 1910 building, exudes an intimate and impeccable charm. Flowers overflowing from window boxes adorn the building’s facade, adding a touch of natural beauty to its classic elegance.
The hotel’s interior is a symphony of cozy curves and warm, inviting colors. The color palette evokes the sweetness of an old-fashioned candy store, with hues of pink, beige, cream, terracotta, and rust. A touch of violet glass fixtures adds a whimsical touch to the otherwise cohesive aesthetic.
The rooms at Chateau des Fleurs are meticulously designed. One particular highlight is the duplex room with a bathtub positioned near the bed, creating a sense of luxurious intimacy. The skylight above the bathtub offers a glimpse of the Parisian sky, transforming the room into a private Parisian garret.
The hotel’s inviting bar and lobby area offers a relaxing respite. Rattan screens divide the space, while bobbin tables and chairs with long tassels create a sense of relaxed elegance. The hotel also features a small spa and a gym in the basement, offering guests a complete retreat experience.
