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August 5, 2024updated Sep 20, 2024

The 16 Best Hotels in Paris: Grand Palaces to Hidden Boutiques

As Paris gleams during a fabulous Olympic Games, there has never been a better time to visit the City of Love.

By Daisy Johnston and Iustina Roman

Paris is the spiritual home of luxury, offering its 50 million visitors some of the world’s best restaurants, shopping and architecture. The city embodies opulence and nowhere is that more true than in its illustrious five-star hotels. While there are hundreds of noteworthy hotels in Paris, a select few have transcended the traditional five-star model to become part of the city’s fabric. From the illustrious ‘Palace’ distinction hotels to quirky boutiques with unique takes on interior design, we have gathered together 16 of the best hotels in Paris that provide guests with the most luxurious experience possible.

[See also: Inside the Most Exclusive Hotel Suites in Paris]

Four Seasons Hotel George V

Best hotel in Paris. Image showing the luxurious Four Seasons Hotel George V facade with the Eiffel Tower in the background in Paris
The Four Seasons Hotel George V makes the most of its prime location / ©Peter Vitale

The definition of French refinement and class, Four Seasons Hotel George V needs little introduction. This Art Deco landmark is situated in the so-called “Golden Triangle” of Paris, one of the city’s most exclusive and fashionable areas. Each of the hotel’s 144 rooms and suites is on par with this environment, furnished in the style of Louis XVI and exuding Parisian grandeur. Expect soft color palettes, crystal chandeliers and large windows with breathtaking city views.

The hotel is also home to an incredible selection of fine dining restaurants, with three restaurants holding a total of six Michelin stars between them. The three-Michelin-starred Le Cinq is one of the most prestigious spots in Paris, where chef Christian Le Squer’s dishes have stood the test of time, while pastry chef Michael Bartocetti works his magic on the desserts. 

Image showing the view from the penthouse at the Four Seasons Hotel George V
Penthouse dining at the Four Seasons in Paris is unmissable / ©Peter Vitale

The innovative dishes at L’Orangerie represent “the future of dining”, with a focus on plants and seafood, and the restaurant has been awarded two well-deserved stars. Elsewhere, indulge in Mediterranean-style cuisine at Le George, which prioritizes sustainable practices and boasts an impressive wine list.

Top suite to book: The Penthouse

fourseasons.com

Le Meurice

Image showing the dining room of Le Meurice with gold detailing and crystal decorations
Rooms in Le Meurice are draped in gold and crystal / ©Le Meurice

Have you ever wondered what it might feel like to be a French royal (although perhaps without the guillotines)? Le Meurice might just be the closest you can get. The magnificent grande dame overlooking the Tuileries Garden is one of the finest in Paris, complete with gorgeous accommodations and flawless service. 

Rest and recharge in the hotel’s rooms and suites which, despite their intimidating splendor and opulence, are still warm and inviting. Carefully arranged and furnished by expert designers, every room and suite represents timeless luxury with a touch of modernity.

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Le Meurice is also the culinary playground for some of the most celebrated and awarded chefs in the world. The hotel is home to Le Meurice Alain Ducasse, a top destination for seasoned Epicureans that holds two Michelin stars. If sweet treats are more your thing, La Pâtisserie du Meurice par Cédric Grolet has got you covered with a range of delectable creations.

Top suite to book: Belle Etoile Suite

dorchestercollection.com

[See also: The 13 Best Restaurants in Paris]

Le Grand Mazarin

Image showing Le Grand Mazarin's dining room with pastel pink and green colorway
The playful style of Le Grand Mazarin stretches into its restaurant / ©Le Grand Mazarin

Le Grand Mazarin is a luxurious escape thriving in the 4th arrondissement, surrounded by the eclectic old Paris. Designer Martin Brudnizki curated the hotel to feel as though it had always been there, but with a modern twist. Partnering with Parisian artisans, it reflects elegant French classicism.

The 47 rooms and 14 suites are bright and playful but still maintain their opulent classic French décor. The hotel’s two bars mirror this highly decorative appearance. The chic Le Bar de Boubalé was named the most eco-friendly bar of 2023 by Time Out magazine, and the secluded Library Bar can be privatized even further for events.

Image showing Le Grand Mazarin's striped underground pool, rare for hotels in Paris, specifically in the Marais
Unwind in the pool after a heavy day exploring Paris / ©Le Grand Mazarin

Le Grand Mazarin’s restaurant Boubalé offers a unique fusion of European and Asian flavors whilst honoring family traditions and recipes. Underneath the hotel stands the mosaic swimming pool, rare for a hotel in the Marais, with a ceiling expertly decorated by artist Jacques Merle.

Top suite to book: Mazarin Suite

legrandmazarin.com

Le Bristol

Image showing the balcony view Paris from Le Bristol hotel
Enjoy unmatched views of Paris from your balcony at Le Bristol / ©Claire Cocano

Le Bristol is a quintessentially Parisian spot that promises an unforgettable stay in the city. This charming hotel is an icon of French hospitality and luxury – in fact, it was the first hotel to receive the Palace distinction, the French Minister of Tourism’s official recognition of the finest five-star hotels.

The rooms and suites are tasteful and sophisticated: think light, airy spaces filled with pastel hues and vintage furniture. Book a suite to delight in unmatched views of the city of love, enjoy freshly-made breakfasts on the balcony, or unwind in your private outdoor spa.

Home to four Michelin stars, Le Bristol’s eateries are sure to please even those with the most discerning tastes. Epicure is the epitome of three-Michelin-starred dining and a destination in its own right, where head chef Eric Frechon prepares unequivocally French dishes. End your day at Le Bar du Bristol, an intimate nook filled with old-age glamor. Later, the bar transforms into an electrifying disco with Le Bristol’s latest concept, Bristol After Dark.

Top suites to book: Presidential Suite, Royal Suite, Imperial Suite

oetkercollection.com

Shangri-La Paris

Image showing the dining room of Shangri-La Paris hotel decorated in gold
This former home of a prince is overwhelmingly opulent / ©Shangri-La Paris

Formerly the residence of a prince, Shangri-La Paris is now a veritable jewel of the capital’s luxury hotel scene. Its prime location in the 16th arrondissement means that guests can enjoy some of the city’s best views of the River Seine and Eiffel Tower from the comfort of their gorgeously designed rooms.

Don’t miss out on Chi, The Spa, where you can indulge in a range of rejuvenating treatments that focus on holistic well-being and balance. What’s more, the spa features an indoor swimming pool bathed in natural light from the outdoor terrace.

As expected from a Shangri-La hotel, the restaurants are also top-notch. Helmed by chef Tony Xu, Shang Palace is the only Chinese restaurant with a Michelin star in France. For an intimate experience, the restaurant’s two private dining rooms can host up to 12 or 24 guests.

Top suite to book: Shangri-La Suite

shangri-la.com

[See also: Two New Paris Hotels for Your Next Jaunt to the City of Lights]

Ritz Paris

Image showing the restaurant garden at The Ritz Paris hotel
Espadon restaurant in the Grand Jardin has a romantic and serene ambiance / ©Ritz Paris

A brand so iconic that the adjective ‘ritzy’ was coined after it, Ritz Paris is the pinnacle of luxury and sophistication. Its rooms and suites will make you feel like a celebrity – indeed, several suites have been named after the famous figures that have stepped foot in this historical property.

The hotel is top of the line when it comes to dining and drinking. From a five- or eight-course dinner at the Michelin-starred Espadon to a weekend get-together at Le Grand Brunch, the options at The Ritz Paris are delectable.

Image showing the 1920s-style bar with leather seating at The Ritz Paris hotel
The sophisticated Bar Hemingway will transport you to the writer’s world / ©The Ritz

Finish the day with a drink at one of the bars on-site – we recommend none other than the classy and quiet Bar Hemingway. Sit back on the leather sofas and let yourself get transported back to the Roaring Twenties as you sip on heavenly cocktails, occasionally served with a rose.

Top suite to book: Suite Impériale

ritzparis.com

Hôtel Plaza Athénée

Image showing the red geraniums on the facade of Hôtel Plaza Athénée
Hôtel Plaza Athénée is unmissable with 1,900 red geraniums planted on its facade / ©Masahiko Takeda

A gorgeous building adorned with 1,900 red geraniums, it’s hard to miss Hôtel Plaza Athénée. It stands surrounded by some of the most luxurious fashion brands on Avenue Montaigne and is closely guarded by the Eiffel Tower. The hotel bathes in Parisian grandeur.

Several signature suites are available at Hôtel Plaza Athénée, each offering spacious rooms and breathtaking views. The Royal Suite holds the title of the largest suite in Paris, with four bedrooms and bathrooms, masterfully decorated with heavy drapes and ornate filigree in a truly regal colorway of purple, orange, white and gold.

Image showing the golden breakfast room at Hôtel Plaza Athénée in Paris
There is no more elegant room to start your day in than the breakfast room at Hôtel Plaza Athénée / ©Tina Hillier

A variety of restaurants are available to cater to every palate, but Michelin-starred Jean Imbert au Plaza Athénée is the highlight, providing an unforgettable journey through French gastronomy. For some post-dinner relaxation, the Dior Spa is on hand for personalized wellness and beauty treatments, promising rejuvenation and long-lasting results.

Top suites to book: Haute Couture Eiffel Suite, The Royal Suite

dorchestercollection.com

Le Royal Monceau – Raffles Paris

Image showing the balcony breakfast available at Le Royal Monceau in Paris
Enjoy a relaxed Parisian breakfast beside your balcony / ©Stephan Julliard

From the iconic Raffles comes Le Royal Monceau – Raffles Paris, featuring an elegant design inspired by the 1940s and ’50s with a heavy focus on the art and culture of Paris. Tour the museum’s art gallery, attend private viewings of shows organized by the art concierge or visit the Katara Cinema for the Royal Film Club.

Several elegant signature suites are available, with the Katara Presidential Suite being one of the most notable. Through a private elevator to the suite, you can then enjoy a private kitchen, an in-suite gym, a complimentary acoustic guitar and a 24/7 butler service, all decorated in a luxuriously chic French style.

Image showing the Eiffel Tower in Paris, taken from Le Royal Monceau hotel
Le Royal Monceau is up close and personal with some of Paris’ iconic landmarks / ©Patrick Locqueneux

Unwind at the Clarins & myBlend Spa, devised by Dr Olivier Courtin-Clarins, which offers personalized treatments with both the guest and the environment in mind. Indulge in top-of-the-range technology, alongside a laconium room, fitness rooms, watsu pool, ice fountain, sauna and a 75-ft swimming pool at the center.

Top suite to book: Royal Monceau Suite

raffles.com

Hôtel de Crillon, A Rosewood Hotel

Image showing the facade of Hôtel de Crillon overlooking Place de la Concorde
Hôtel de Crillon, A Rosewood Hotel, is located in a refurbished 18th-century palace overlooking Place de la Concorde / ©Adrian Houston

Although it is steps away from many of the city’s best sights, Hôtel de Crillon is a landmark in its own right. The majestic and imposing 18th-century palace underwent major renovations in 2013 before becoming one of the most legendary grande dames in Paris.

The hotel’s accommodation is nothing short of spectacular: from cozy-chic suites with views of the Eiffel Tower to the Karl Lagerfeld-designed Les Grandes Appartements, each option embodies effortless Parisian elegance and l’art de vivre.

Don’t forget to book beauty and health treatments at the hotel’s signature spa, Sense. Choose from Japanese massages or CBD treatments, or simply take things at your own pace in the relaxation area.

Image showing the elegant bar at Hôtel de Crillon in Paris
Bar Les Ambassadeurs serves up delicious drinks in an exquisite setting / ©Adrian Houston

Hôtel de Crillon also boasts no less than six bars and eateries, including a private dining room. Bar Les Ambassadeurs features stunning interiors and innovative cocktails, while Nonos par Paul Pairet serves up modern French fare with a twist.

Top suites to book: Suite Duc de Crillon, Les Grands Appartements

rosewoodhotels.com

[See also: The Best Luxury Villas in France]

Prince de Galles, A Luxury Collection Hotel

Image showing the view of Paris from Prince de Galles, a Luxury Collection Hotel
The Suite Lalique’s terrace view is staggering / ©Prince de Galles, a Luxury Collection Hotel

Prince de Galles has offered a non-stop luxurious experience to its guests since opening its doors in 1929, drawing in regular guests such as Winston Churchill and Marlene Dietrich. With a prime location, wellness suite, fitness center and lavish rooms, Prince de Galles’s popularity is no surprise.

The hotel features 116 rooms and 43 family suites with stunning views across the Paris skyline, all curated in a sleek Art Deco style. The suite you don’t want to miss, however, is the Suite Lalique. Designed by Patrick Hellmann in partnership with crystal glass manufacturer Lalique, both floors of this opulent suite are coated in elaborate mosaics, black marble and gold, with a terrace to lounge on and indulge in the Parisian atmosphere.

Three restaurants are at your choosing at Prince de Galles, including Akira Back’s first restaurant in Europe, offering modern Japanese cuisine and an exclusive private dining room. Le Patio acts as an oasis where you can retreat for a cocktail, while 19.20 serves classic French cuisine.

Top suite to book: Suite Lalique

marriott.com

Hôtel Lutetia

Image showing the facade of Hôtel Lutetia
Hôtel Lutetia has earned its palace status with its grand stature and excellent service / ©Hôtel Lutetia

At the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Pres is Hôtel Lutetia, the only palace hotel on the Left Bank. Jean-Michel Wilmotte’s careful design unites Art Nouveau and Art Deco, bringing the hotel into the 21st century. At the same time, original elements like stained glass and sculptures have been restored with the help of master craftsmen. There are 176 guestrooms and suites available, alongside eight signature suites. Each room is decorated with a neutral palette, and huge windows allow for an abundance of natural light and views of Paris.

The two restaurants within Hotel Lutetia offer classic Parisian cuisine, including an exclusive seafood bar within Brasserie Lutetia, and signature cocktails can be sampled in the ornate Bar Joséphine, a tribute to the fabled Lutetia patron. The award-winning Akasha Spa will ensure you remain grounded through all of the excitement with a combination of holistic healing and technological treatments.

Top suite to book: The Presidential ‘Carré Rive Gauche’ Suite With Terrace

hotellutetia.com

Bulgari Hotel Paris

Image showing the sweeping view from the penthouse of Bulgari Hotel
The Bulgari Penthouse is the hotel’s most luxurious suite, offering breathtaking views of the city / ©Bulgari

An Italian brand’s luxury hotel in Paris – can it get any more stylish than this? The Bulgari Hotel Paris’s 76 rooms and suites were designed by an Italian studio and exude timeless elegance, perfectly complementing the hotel’s facade on Avenue George V, which is inspired by Renaissance-era architecture.

If the Olympic Games have you in a sporting mood, the Bulgari Hotel Paris boasts a demi-sized Olympic pool and a well-equipped fitness center. Unwind after a long day of training (or just spectating) at the hotel’s 4,265-sq-ft signature spa, which features a hair salon.

The Bulgari Hotel Paris is home to Il Ristorante – Niko Romito, which has restaurants all over the world. Here you can enjoy dishes which redefine both French and Italian classics in an intimate setting hidden from view in the hotel’s private garden. From the Bulgari silverware to the bread baked in-house with three types of flour, no details have been spared at this fine dining spot.

Top suite to book: The Bulgari Penthouse

bulgarihotels.com

[See also: The Best Luxury Hotels in the South of France]

Mandarin Oriental Paris

Image showing the terrace at Mandarin Oriental Paris hotel
Mandarin Oriental Paris offers a luxury hideaway on its terrace / ©George Apostolidis

Located on the famed Rue Saint-Honoré, and not far from other shopping streets, the spacious and attractive Mandarin Oriental Paris hotel is perfect for those who come to Paris to shop ‘til they drop. It is one of Paris’s “palace” hotels, meaning that it meets stringent criteria that set it apart from other hotels in the city. It comes as no surprise that the service and amenities at Mandarin Oriental Paris are top-notch.

Rest your head in one of the hotel’s 135 rooms and suites, which are well-suited to anyone from business travelers to families. Rooms feature Art Deco-inspired touches and expensive artwork, and the higher-end suites stand out with extra amenities like Japanese toilets and marble bathrooms. If you want to go all out, opt for a palatial penthouse.

When it comes to dining, Mandarin Oriental Paris will not disappoint. Camélia is an environmentally-conscious restaurant offering French cuisine using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. For something a little more comfortable and private, guests can enjoy in-room dining around the clock.

Top suite to book: The Parisian Apartment

mandarinoriental.com

Fauchon L’Hôtel Paris

Image showing Madeleine Suite at Fauchon L’Hôtel Paris
The Madeleine Suite / ©Fauchon L’Hôtel Paris

From a brand focused on luxury and gastronomy comes Fauchon L’Hôtel Paris. Its attention to detail on special sensory experiences is visible across your whole stay, from being greeted with fresh macarons to a gourmet dinner at Grand Café Fauchon.

Each of the 33 rooms and 21 suites in this hotel is different, but the classically bold Fauchon pink accents unite them all. Tailored experiences are offered specially for guests who book suites. The Am Beautiful Suites experience, available to guests who book the Chic Suite, offers luxuries like an in-room breakfast, a Fauchon Madame Box with an abundance of self-care essentials, and a Polaroid camera.

Fauchon’s beauty spa is an unmissable treat offering total relaxation. Beginning with a gourmet tea and delicate pastries, guests can then unwind in the hammam, experience personalized therapies or use one of the high-tech fitness rooms.

Top suite to book: Eiffel Tower Suite

hotel-fauchon-paris.fr

[See also: The Best Spa Hotels in the South of France]

Brach Paris

Brach Paris, formerly a postal sorting center, is now a careful fusion of art movements like Dada and modernism with 1930s architecture thanks to the work of French designer Philippe Starck. As a result, we have a new, eclectic haunt at the heart of the 16th arrondissement in Paris. 

The 59 rooms and seven suites in Brach Paris are decorated with antiques, marble and rosewood, all bathed in soft lighting for a cozy, romantic atmosphere. Every suite offers 180-degree views of Paris from the hot tub on their terrace, providing an escape from the buzz of the capital.

Take advantage of Brach’s state-of-the-art sports club and 72 ft pool during your stay, alongside the variety of group gym classes held weekly. Transport is not a problem here as the concierge can book private vehicles through the limousine service so you can explore Paris with ease.

Top suite to book: Suzanne

brachparis.com

La Fantaisie

La Fantaisie outside restaurant
The design of La Fantaisie by acclaimed interior decorator Martin Brudnizki is centered around the hotel’s charming courtyard garden / ©La Fantaisie

What was once a market garden during the reign of Charles IX is now La Fantaisie, a verdant Parisian oasis dedicated to a dreamy atmosphere and welcoming stays. With a playful bar, café and restaurant, as well as a luxurious spa, you can wine, dine and unwind at your leisure.

The 63 rooms and 10 suites at La Fantaisie are all decorated with colors that light up the room, like sunshine yellows and soft greens. There are also little nods to nature and the hotel’s background, from decorative floral lamps to views across the vibrant gardens of Paris.

The spa is a definite highlight, themed around an underground spring and designed to rejuvenate through personalized treatments and traditional holistic therapies. Make use of the cold and warm baths, mineral water pool, jacuzzi and sauna to totally relax.

Top suite to book: Suite Terrace

lafantaisie.com

[See also: Five Perfect Parisian Rentals for Your Olympics Vacation]

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