7 luxury hotels in Paris for a five-star stay in the City of Lights
From former aristocratic residences to Haussmannian five-stars, push the boat out and splurge on one of these incredible hotels
Luxury breaks in Paris might seem reserved for the one per cent, but you don’t have to be a millionaire to enjoy the finer hotels in the city. It’s not all about the Michelin-starred restaurants (though Paris does have the second highest number of these in the world), monogrammed pillowcases, and private chauffeurs; luxury can be imagined in lots of different ways.
Plush beds, authentic French cuisine and attentive service that veers towards the personal are hallmarks of modern luxury, as well as fancy amenities such as spas and penthouse suites. Hotel Montalembert, in a prestigious Left Bank location, has been welcoming well-heeled guests since 1926 and boasts Eiffel Tower views from its eponymous suite.
Hotel de Sers was the former aristocratic home of the Marquis of Sers and has a lovely spa for soothing post-sightseeing limbs. And places like the elegant Hotel Bel Ami make a luxurious base for discerning culture-seekers looking for a quiet sanctuary. With options to suit all tastes, these are our favourite luxury hotels in Paris.
Maison Colbert
Luxury and culture collide in a big way at the beautiful Maison Colbert, and fans of art and literature looking to explore the Left Bank are drawn to its doors for its impeccable style and historical connections (Simone de Beauvoir penned two books when she lived here).
Interiors offset Art Deco styling with reproductions of high society portraits and impressionist art by Joaquín Sorolla in a way that draws the eye to every corner. There’s no spa, gym or restaurant but guests can anticipate delicious breakfasts with a complimentary glass of cava at Café Clotilde after a peaceful night’s sleep in one of the 39 contemporary rooms.
Villa Marquis
It’s not often you get to stay in the residence of an aristocratic family, yet Villa Marquis was the former Paris home of Marquis de Vibraye. Now a 64-room luxury hotel, the conservative five-star in the 8th arrondissement provides a tranquil base for guests seeking a convenient location close to major sights like the Eiffel Tower, along with immaculate interiors.
Historic prints of the noble French family, who still have a château in the Loire valley, remind you of its interesting heritage, while the use of plush red velvets throughout ups the Parisian luxe factor.
Hotel Madame Rêve
Strikingly set in a 1st arrondissement post office that dates back to 1888, Hôtel Madame Rêve is one of those special finds you never want to leave. The interiors are a warm palette of gold, honey, copper, mustard and bronze, with gentle nods to its heritage displayed in letters, telegrams and stationery.
Fans of film, fashion and art come here to quaff champagne cocktails in the grand Café, chat over Japanese plates at La Plume, hunker down in the spa, and gaze at the city from the roof garden. Should you fancy venturing out, the incredible location means you’re within walking distance of the Louvre Museum, Pompidou Centre and Sainte-Chapelle.
Hotel de Sers
This graceful spot on the 8th arrondissement was once the private mansion of the Marquis de Sers, with stables and a courtyard dating back to 1880. Hotel de Sers’ noble history and luxurious interiors attract affluent guests who enjoy its colour-festooned lounge, low-key bar, lovely spa, and outside terrace (when the weather is warm) when they’re not exploring the city.
Rooms are restful with squishy beds and luxury linens promising a good night’s sleep. Most come with views over the courtyard. The hotel’s proximity to the Champs-Elysées and River Seine is another big draw, while the Arc de Triomphe, Trocadéro Gardens and Eiffel Tower are within walking distance.
Hotel Bel Ami
The elegant Hotel Bel Ami, situated on the Left Bank between the River Seine and boulevard Saint-Germain, makes a luxurious base for those who appreciate a quiet sanctuary with cultural connections. The hotel was named after an 1885 novel by Guy de Maupassant and has a collection point for donated books in the lobby ─ which is decorated with art, fashion and travel books (also visible in the lounges and breakfast room).
A spa is perfect for soothing tired limbs after busy days exploring Paris, and a little cafe serving French cuisine (foie gras, beef bourguignon) plus bar turning out creative cocktails all add to the personal appeal. In terms of rooms, plump for a street-facing option in the deluxe category.
Pavillon Faubourg Saint-Germain
The Pavillon Faubourg Saint-Germain hotel is surrounded by galleries, antique shops and cafés to tick off in arty Saint-Germain, but if you want to venture further to the main sights, the Louvre is only 10 minutes on foot and Notre Dame, 20.
The beautiful boutique hotel is popular with couples looking for somewhere stylish and intimate to base themselves while they go off and explore Paris. On return, a spa with plunge pool and hammam, chic brasserie serving French dishes with creative flair, and contemporary rooms with sink-into beds provide perfect respite before another day of travelling. Expect silk patterned walls, plush carpet, and warm tones throughout.
Hotel Montalembert
With a prestigious Left Bank postcode, a relaxed atmosphere, attentive service and great location, Hotel Montalembert has been welcoming international guests through its refined doors since 1926. A location in the 7th arrondissement means major sights like the Louvre, Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame are within 25 minutes’ walk, while high end stores, cafes and antique shops are right on the doorstep.
French cuisine and good-quality breakfasts are found at the restaurant while the library is the perfect place for an elegant cocktail. Contemporary rooms are flawlessly presentable; plump for the Montalembert Suite for a view of the Eiffel Tower.
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