It has been argued that the French are experts in luxury and for some the city of Paris is synonymous with the term. While there may be many of you who would argue this point, it is hard to deny the superiority of Parisian taste in luxury while visiting a few of their finest hotels. Each captures the imagination in a different way and, I would argue, takes the meaning of luxury to whole new level.
These five hotels should be on any Paris traveler’s list who wants to enjoy a top-of-the-line experience in the City of Light.
The Ritz
There is no better place to start the search for Parisian luxury hotels than in the city’s center, where you will find the Hotel Ritz. This hotel is truly legendary as it was built by Ceaser Ritz in 1898. It has played host to heads of state, literary legends such as Marcel Proust and even Coco Chanel. Here every aspect of your stay is made luxurious whether you are enjoying the fine dining at L’ Espadon or taking a quick nap in a room overlooking the rue Cambon.
Hotel de Crillon
Equally historic is the Hotel de Crillon which was built in the 18th century. It has been relegated the status of a historic monument. It is a Conde Nast award winner and boasts breathtaking views of Paris including the Eiffel Tower. Here you have a choice of fine dining at Les Ambassadeurs or for something a little different, you might try L’Obe where the cuisine and décor have a slightly more modern feel.
One unique aspect of this hotel is its treatment of children. Each child that visits the Crillon has a gift basket made available to them, filled with goodies. Especially charming is the plush Crillon elephant to accompany them during their stay. This is just one example of the little touches that make Hotel de Crillon’s service one of excellence.
Hotel Plaza Athenee
Sharing a view of the Eiffel Tower as well as Cour Jardin, avenue Montaigne, and the rooftops of Montmartre is the Hotel Plaza Athenee. This newly renovated hotel is definitely a standout when it comes to luxury accommodations. As if the dining and suites available would not be enough, Athenee has the added benefit of a spa.
The Dior Institut offers a variety of facial and body treatments within the hotel’s walls. This added benefit of experiencing the effects of Dior Anti-Aging Active Concentrates will only enhance your look and feeling of well-being. The mark of being well-rested is a youthful appearance and this hotel certainly strives to make sure you not only look, but feel years younger after your stay.
Pavillon de la Reine
Athenee is not the only hotel that includes a spa for its guests. At the Pavillon de la Reine the presence of a spa has become its most recent edition. This charming hotel is slightly less opulent than others, but certainly parallels in service and the importance of relaxation for guests. It has just gone through a renovation. It is located in the Marais district quite close to the Opera de la Bastille and the Picasso Museum. Here you can enjoy luxury for slightly less while taking in the beauty and art of the city.
Hotel du Louvre
The most famous exhibition of art in the city of Paris is without a doubt the Louvre. Housed inside the walls of the Louvre are the some of the world’s greatest masterpieces and situated across from it is another luxury hotel. The Hotel du Louvre has the benefit of a great location which is what gives it its name. The hotel is located in the 1st arrondissement, which means it’s within walking distance to many attractions in this spectacular city. This even includes a metro station so that you can expand your travel experience. This hotel is also decorated in more of a contemporary style. Its location and the availability of several meeting rooms make this hotel ideal for those who find themselves in Paris for business as well as pleasure.
Le Meurice
One final destination is Le Meurice. With 160 rooms, each with a distinct style, you are sure to find one best-suited for your taste. This magnificent hotel is also located close to the Jardin Des Tuileries. Along with a three star Michelin rated restaurant you will also find Bar 228, where you can enjoy a drink called the “Starcky”, named after the room’s 2007 renovator. If a drink at the end of the night is not your ideal way of winding down, Le Meurice also offers a variety of spa treatments at Spa Valmont. Here you might decide to get a massage while enjoying the benefits of “Thermes Marins de Saint Malo” products. These are all amenities exclusive to Le Meurice and sure to make any overnight stay in Paris luxurious.