Image courtesy of Le Bristol Paris, Oetker Collection
Think of Paris, and your imagination starts to run wild. Whether you envision picnics by the Eiffel Tower, hours exploring the Louvre Museum or shopping sprees in Le Marais, Paris delivers — as do its hotels. The best Paris hotels capture the essence of the French capital: chic, elegant, unapologetic. We asked over two dozen Fora Advisors to share their Paris hotel recommendations and gathered their responses, as well as a few pro tips, below.
La Fantaisie (9th arrondissement)
Image courtesy of La Fantaisie
La Fantaisie is an enchanting boutique hotel on the Right Bank. Its stylish design is inspired by the history of its local neighborhood, once home to the French monarch’s gardeners. A color palette of soft greens, pinks and other natural hues fills common spaces and rooms. Its chic restaurant, which serves traditional French cuisine, has a greenhouse vibe with potted plants throughout.
“The vibe here is effortlessly cool, making it a perfect pick for those who love thoughtful design, relaxed luxury, and a little bit of fun woven into their stay,” Fora Advisor Syd Wolchok said. “Paris definitely has no shortage of historic hotels, but La Fantaisie offers something different — a lush, whimsical retreat that feels like a secret garden in the middle of the city.”
Fora X Advisor Krystine Wada loves the hotel’s excellent location in the 9th arrondissement — you’ll feel like a local here — as well as its spa. There are multiple pools, a hammam, saunas and a variety of holistic wellness treatments.
“The spa and wellness area is the perfect place to recover from jet lag or rest after a long day touring the city,” Fora Advisor Nicole Sensone said.
She added that La Fantasie is one of her favorite hotels in Paris' Right Bank. The hotel is relatively close to Sacré-Cœur and Montmartre, and only steps away from À La Mère de Famille, Paris’ oldest chocolate shop.
Fora Reserve perks include a €100 hotel credit, a bottle of Champagne upon arrival, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Kimpton St Honoré Paris (2nd arrondissement)
Image courtesy of Kimpton St Honoré Paris
Kimpton St Honoré sits on Capucines Boulevard, which separates the 2nd and 9th arrondissements, in an area dubbed the Opera District. The hotel is steps away from Paris’ majestic, 19th-century Palais Garnier opera house as well as smaller theaters, fine eateries, indie boutiques and famous French department stores. The property melds a minimalist Art Deco theme with a fashion-forward contemporary design, giving it a fresh and hip feel.
Fora X Advisor Renée Olson recommends Kimpton St Honoré for couples and families who prefer “something a little more fun” without sacrificing the finer things. Expect a warm welcome regardless of your travel situation.
Fora’s IHG Destined partner perks include a $100 hotel credit, a welcome amenity, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Relais Christine (6th arrondissement)
Image courtesy of Relais Christine
Relais Christine is a luxe boutique hotel in a historic, 16th-century building in Paris’ Left Bank. It’s sophisticated, quintessentially Parisian, intimate and cozy. The décor is a curated mix of traditional French elements — think rich, classic fabrics, antique-inspired details and references to the building’s storied past. Individually decorated suites — some with terraces, balconies and multiple levels — are exceptionally spacious. A series of lounges with velvet-clad sofas, deep armchairs and, per Fora Advisor Sara Jeane Gulley, details “that reinforce the feeling that you are not in a hotel, but in someone's home.”
To enter, you’ll first pass through a quiet courtyard before being welcomed into the handsome, colorful lobby by hotel staff.
“If you want that classic, romantic, effortlessly chic, Parisian experience, Relais Christine is it,” Syd said. “It’s the kind of place where you wake up, walk to a nearby café for a morning espresso, then wander along the Seine like you’re in a movie.”
Fora Perks include €90 spa credit, a welcome amenity, and upgrade whenever possible and guaranteed late check-out.
Hôtel Le Grand Mazarin (4th arrondissement)
Image courtesy of Hôtel Le Grand Mazarin
Le Grand Mazarin boasts a series of striking, artfully designed interiors inspired by 14th- and 15th-century Paris’ literary salons — a precursor to the French Academy, the official authority over the French language. Each of its rooms and suites is uniquely appointed with lavish tapestries, custom furnishings and fine art. Boubalé, the hotel’s signature restaurant, offers an inventive take on Eastern European Ashkenazi cuisine. And there’s a chic, underground wellness area featuring a mosaic-adorned pool and high-end spa treatments.
“What makes this property so special is the attention to details and bold design choices,” Emma said. “Designed by Swedish native, Martin Brudnizki, this property boasts a sophisticated youthfulness with fun colors and patterns in every corner, yet top-of-the-line, luxe finishings.”
Emma also highlighted the hotel’s bar, which was named the most sustainable bar in Paris for its clever use of leftover ingredients from their kitchen, such as croissant foam, bread syrup and pumpkin flavors.
“Le Grand Mazarin is the kind of place where Paris’ energy really comes alive,” Marisa added. “The restaurant and bar are always buzzing with locals and guests, offering an ideal spot to vibe with the city.”
Saint James Paris (16th arrondissement)
Image courtesy of Saint James Paris
Saint James Paris is a world-class, three-Michelin-Key hotel tucked away in an affluent, more residential corner of the city. A manicured courtyard and neoclassical fountain welcomes you into a grandiose lobby filled with vintage furniture. The Guerlain Spa is reminiscent of a Roman bathhouse, but with contemporary treatments and amenities (a large indoor pool, hot tub, hammam, a gym). There are only 22 rooms and suites, all of which have an immaculate attention to detail and a subtler, artful take on Art Deco design. This limited capacity also ensures personalized and attentive service.
“I’m a huge fan of St James. The vibe is relaxed, yet still super stylish — like staying in a private mansion,” Fora X Advisor Marisa Schwab said. “The interiors have a sleek, old-school charm, and the service makes you feel right at home.”
Fora X Advisor Daryn Schwartz highlighted Saint James’ private apartments and villa. These options still grant access to all of Saint James’ services and amenities, while promising more space — the villa can host up to 12 — enhanced privacy and residential-style accommodations.
Fora’s Relais & Châteaux partner perks include daily breakfast.
Hôtel Barrière Le Fouquet's - Paris (8th arrondissement)
Image courtesy of Hôtel Barrière Le Fouquet's - Paris
Hôtel Barrière Le Fouquet's is a prestigious landmark on Champs-Élysées, near the Arc de Triomphe. The design is extravagant and luxurious. Expect a blend of Art Deco and classical motifs in expansive rooms and suites.
“Even the smallest room — at more than 400 square feet — is exceptionally spacious by Parisian standards,” Fora X Advisor Bekah LeBeau said.
The hotel’s culinary lineup is exceptional. Le Fouquet's brasserie serves fine Parisian cuisine in a formal setting. Joy, a restaurant, offers shareable bites in a slightly relaxed space, L'Escadrille is a chic cocktail lounge and Le Marta Paris is a cross between a speakeasy and a club, with DJs regularly performing.
Fora Reserve perks include a €100, daily breakfast, complimentary airport transfer, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Cheval Blanc Paris
Cheval Blanc is an ultra-luxe hotel barely two blocks from the Louvre that overlooks the Seine — it’s about as central as you can get. Whereas many of the best hotels in Paris favor Art Deco or Belle Époque throwbacks, Cheval Blanc adopts a bold and thoughtful contemporary interior design that, while fresh and striking, still feels authentically Parisian.
There are no bad rooms here, but the best options offer unbeatable views of the Seine, the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame’s towers. A sample of in-room amenities include hammam-style showers and spacious bathtubs, separate dressing rooms, optional balconies and butler service. If you’re visiting with a large group or your family, connecting rooms are available. You can also reserve The Apartment, a rooftop unit with seven bedrooms, multiple living spaces, terraces, a private pool, a dedicated elevator and more.
Fora Perks include daily breakfast, complimentary round-trip transfer, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Shangri-La Paris (16th arrondissement)
Image courtesy of Shangri-La Paris
Shangri-La Paris is a palace of a hotel housed in the former residence of Prince Roland Bonaparte in the covetable 16th arrondissement. The interiors feature a sophisticated palette of blues, whites and creams enhanced by subtle Asian accents, from silk-threaded wallpapers and bespoke crystal-finished furniture to restored marble floors and heated bathrooms. Each room and suite is individually styled, and the views of the Eiffel Tower and the Seine are near unparalleled.
“If waking up to a postcard-perfect view of the Eiffel Tower is a must, Shangri-La Paris is pure magic,” Fora X Advisor Seasen Acevedo-Zullo said. “Whether you're sipping coffee on your balcony or enjoying an exquisite meal at Shang Palace, the city's only Michelin-Starred Chinese restaurant, every moment feels cinematic.”
Also enjoy innovative East-meets-West offerings at La Bauhinia, elegant lounges, spa experiences at CHI, The Spa or the inviting outdoor terrace. Beyond the views, Shangri-La Paris is within walking distance of the Eiffel Tower — just across the Pont d'Iéna bridge — and other Parisian landmarks.
Fora’s Shangri-La Luxury Circle partner perks include a $50 hotel credit, a welcome amenity, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Les Bains Paris (3rd arrondissement)
Image courtesy of Les Bains Paris
Les Bains, French for “the Baths,” is an urban retreat occupying a former bathhouse-turned-nightclub (one once favored by celebrities and artists from all over the world). The hotel reinvents its past with a bold, unorthodox aesthetic that celebrates avant-garde design. Les Bains feels like a sharp departure from many Paris hotels, style-wise. Exposed brick, industrial accents and unexpected art installations build a creative energy. Les Baines is an immersive experience — the interiors posess a lively mix of colorful murals, minimalist bespoke furnishings and playful lighting.
“Staying at Les Bains Paris offers a distinctive experience,” Fora Advisor Rita Carton said, noting that the hotel offers historical charm, unconventional luxury and facilitates a vibrant cultural scene.
Fora Perks include welcome amenities, an upgrade and extended check-out whenever possible.
La Réserve Paris Hotel and Spa (8th arrondissement)
Image courtesy of La Réserve Paris Hotel and Spa
La Réserve feels intimate, tucked behind a curtain of trees amidst the Champs-Elysees’ bustle. This ultra-luxe hotel melds Art Deco glamour with a grandiose classical style; the rooms, suites and common spaces feel like art exhibits. A handful of spaces surprise with an artful, contemporary style and classical undertones to tie everything together.
“La Réserve is the ultimate in private luxury for those who do not feel the need to see or be seen,” Fora X Advisor Kara Kassuba said. “Even the most world-weary, jaded travelers rave about the stunning décor and rooms, the exceptional service, the excellent dining — it is sexy, chic and always at the top of my Paris list.”
Notably, the concierge team at La Réserve can arrange experiences to make its guests feel extra Parisian, whether it’s through a private piano concert, a guide of Montmartre’s vineyards or a Venetian-style boat ride down the Seine.
Fora Perks include a $100 food and beverage credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Le Pavillon de la Reine & Spa (3rd arrondissement)
Image courtesy of Le Pavillon de la Reine & Spa
Le Pavillon de la Reine is a boutique hotel found on the Right Bank in the Le Marais, home to an array of bistros and boulangeries. Standing opposite the gorgeous Place des Vosges square — the oldest planned square in Paris — a stay at this hotel puts you within walking distance of Opéra Bastille and Place de la Bastille. However, the hotel itself is somewhat hidden; an ivy-covered façade and soft lighting draws attention away from the hotel’s entrance.
“Le Pavillon de la Reine & Spa is such a charming option for those seeking a quiet getaway in the hustle and bustle of Paris,” Fora Advisor Emma Sakakeeny said.
You’ll love the hotel’s whimsical wallpaper, fun colors, exposed wooden beams and spa, which Emma described as perfect for couples seeking relaxation after exploring Paris’ streets.
Fora Perks include a $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Hôtel Adèle & Jules (9th arrondissement)
Image courtesy of Hôtel Adèle & Jules
Hôtel Adèle & Jules is a treasure tucked away in a serene cul-de-sac within the buzzing Grands Boulevards district. It’s set in twin 19th‑century townhouses, and combines vintage Parisian charm with a playful, modern twist. Each room bursts with its own character, featuring vivid color palettes, bold patterns and meticulously chosen details. Beyond its striking interiors, the hotel offers thoughtful amenities such as a complimentary afternoon tea in a cozy lounge and personalized concierge services that help you navigate Paris like a local.
“Adèle & Jules is perfect for travelers who want a laid-back but stylish stay in a vibrant, residential neighborhood,” Syd said. “It feels like home — only chicer.”
The hotel is slightly further from the city’s major attractions than many of the Paris hotels mentioned thus far, but it offers approachable rates and stellar value.
Fora Perks include welcome amenities, daily breakfast and an upgrade whenever possible.
Le Bristol Paris, Oetker Collection (8th arrondissement)
Image courtesy of Le Bristol Paris, Oetker Collection
The luxurious and elegant Le Bristol opened during the peak of Paris’ Art Deco movement. While most of the décor and furnishings have been restored or replaced over the last century, the spirit of the Roaring 20s is still very much alive here — much effort has been devoted to creating unique and charming spaces.
Le Bar du Bristol, for example, exudes sophistication by day, but weekend evenings transform the space into a swanky, sexy lounge: Le Bristol After Dark. Le Bristol’s Le Jardin Français features a quiet colonnade flanked by orange trees, dripping wisterias and rose blossoms. . Some call the garden the hotel’s green heart, which makes perfect sense, as you’ll likely fall in love with this oasis in the midst of Paris’ city center. (The hotel’s only a few minutes from the Miromesnil Métro stop.) Le Bristol also has an indoor swimming pool modeled after an early 20th-century lake boat. Vintage-style deckboards, large latticed windows and charming murals are stylized to give the appearance of being out on a sunny, Swiss lake in 1910.
Fora Perks include a $100 food and beverage credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Nolinski Paris (1st arrondissement)
Image courtesy of Nolinski Paris
Nolinski is an intimate boutique hotel in Paris with a bold, contemporary edge found near the Louvre and the Opéra. Modern minimalist elements coexist with rich, handcrafted details — from custom-made furnishings to curated artworks — much in line with a stylish Parisian apartment.
“Nolinski Paris ticks all of my boxes for a hidden-gem hotel: great location, small luxury feel — but with all the amenities — and beautiful design,” Fora Advisor Nancy McLaughlin said.
The property only has 45 rooms, plus a spa, indoor pool, gourmet restaurant — Nancy noted Michelin-Star Chef Philip Chronopoulos’ restaurant serves incredible French cuisine — and a chic bar, “a great spot for homemade herbal infusions and signature cocktails before heading out.”
Fora Perks include welcome amenities, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Hôtel L'Eldorado Paris (17th arrondissement)
Hôtel L'Eldorado is a trendy boutique hotel in Paris’ 17th arrondissement, just outside the outskirts of hip Montmartre. Expect a vintage aesthetic, personable service and surprisingly approachable rates. Multiple Métro stations are only a few blocks away. The hotel’s surroundings offer a glimpse of authentic Paris, with chic indie boutiques, diverse eateries and locals walking about.
Fora Reserve perks include a welcome drink, complimentary Parisian breakfast, private concierge service and an upgrade whenever possible.
Hôtel Providence Paris (10th arrondissement)
Hôtel Providence is another boutique choice, this one on the border of the 10th arrondissement and Le Marais. There are fewer than 20 rooms and suites, each individually styled with vintage furniture and a moody take on Art Deco décor. The property’s always-available concierge is a highlight, and is partnered with many of the local theaters along the nightlife-savvy Grands Boulevards area to offer premier seats and other perks.
Fora Reserve perks include a welcome drink, daily breakfast, private concierge service, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Château Voltaire (1st arrondissement)
Image courtesy of Château Voltaire
You can’t get much more central than Château Voltaire. This luxe boutique hotel is only a few blocks from Tuileries Garden, the Louvre and the Palais Garnier. Château Voltaire occupies a character-rich mansion — the former headquarters of Zadig&Voltaire, actually — with a quiet, sophisticated vibe. Enjoy complimentary access to the property’s spa (there’s a hot tub, sauna and other amenities) or enjoy massages in your room. There are 30 rooms in total, each spacious for a hotel in the heart of the city, as well as a handful of luxe suites with large, private terraces that overlook busy streets.
“The property is perfect for someone that wants to hit all of the tourist spots while staying in a high-end area with great shopping,” Daryn said. It’s surrounded by high-end shopping and eateries, plus Métro stations and bus stops.
Fora Reserve perks include welcome amenities, complimentary aperitivo at Emil Brasserie, complimentary Parisian breakfast, complimentary butler service, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Fora Advisors’ tips for staying in Paris
The Fora Advisors we polled shared a few insider tips for traveling to Paris to go along with their hotel recommendations.
Bring comfy shoes, expect a lot of walking and consider public transportation
While many of the hotels above are located steps away from Métro stations, the best way to explore Paris is to simply walk around.
“Explore Paris on foot. It’s one of those cities that’s best discovered while wandering the streets, so make sure to pack comfy (but chic) walking shoes,” Marisa said.
There are a couple caveats to this. Sara Jeane recommended familiarizing yourself with a map of Paris’ 20 arrondissements (neighborhoods) and having a general idea of what you want to do beforehand. Though walkable, Paris is huge — walking from neighborhood to neighborhood is doable, but it’s easy to get lost.
If the distance is too great or you want to maximize your time, the Métro is fast and inexpensive. Alternatively, Paris’ bus system — highlighted by Fora Advisors Amanda Brinkerhoff and Jane Henzerling — offers a compromise between sightseeing and speed. Amanda added that the Bonjour RATP app allows you to conveniently buy, store and use bus tickets.
Taxis and rideshares are also options, but they’re typically more expensive and don’t always offer a faster route. For exploring outside the city, however (like traveling from Paris to Marseille), the train is unbeatable. (Read about things to do in Marseille, France.)
Have a few basic French phrases in your pocket
Image courtesy of Les Bains Paris
Paris’ reputation for hazing non-French speakers is overblown. Fora Advisors noted that Parisians are often welcoming regardless of your spoken language, but attempting basic French can earn you some points.
“While many Parisians speak English, making an effort with a few French phrases can make a big difference,” Marisa said. “Start with a simple ‘bonjour’ before you order your croissant in the morning. It’s one of the little things that makes Paris a welcoming city.”
Fora Advisor Nadia Schwartz suggested using the Duolingo app before you arrive: “Parisians appreciate the effort.”
The free app offers a user-friendly way to learn basic and intermediate concepts in dozens of languages, including French.
All that said, hotels in Paris cater to English and French speakers alike. You’ll have no trouble interacting with hotel staff at any of the properties mentioned above.
Make advanced reservations for attractions and high-end dining
Paris is one of the most visited cities in the world. Don’t expect a line outside every shop, eatery or experience — but it does make sense to plan ahead for the things to do in Paris that you’re most interested in.
“I highly recommend securing dinner reservations prior to your arrival,” Daryn said. “While it is easy to walk into a street-side café and get a table, it can be very difficult to get into a proper bistro — like Parcelles, Le Servan or Septime — without a reservation. These have little to no room for walk-ins.”
Jane added that skip-the-line tours and tickets are essential for visiting major museums or attractions.
But save time for spontaneity
As important as reservations are for your most coveted attractions, most Fora Advisors recommended saving time to wander, too.
“Don't overload yourself with tours every single day — take some time to simply enjoy a cup of coffee or a glass of Champagne, watch the world go by and soak in the art de vivre à la Française,” Fora Advisor Valeriya Vygodnaya said. “This is the essence of French living.”
You’ll save money and time by staying inside the city
Image courtesy of La Réserve Paris Hotel and Spa
It’s easy to be drawn to highly affordable rates offered by hotels outside Paris. But unless you’re visiting an attraction outside the city — Disneyland Paris, for example — you’re likely to spend the difference in commuting costs into the city . Worse, you’ll lose precious time commuting that could otherwise be spent exploring.
This does not, however, apply to staying in central Paris’ outside arrondissements. These areas are still well connected to the rest of the inner city, and the money you save by staying at a more approachably priced hotel may be worth losing a few minutes on the train or bus.
Paris hotel and travel FAQs
Read on for more details on Paris hotels and travel.
What are the best months to visit Paris? When is Paris most crowded?
Paris is a year-round destination with a continuous stream of travelers. However, spring and fall months typically offer comfortable weather, the fewest crowds and the best rates outside of major events. Spring has the added benefit of blooming flowers and plants in Paris’ gardens, while fall brings foliage color changes in its parks. Summer and the holiday season in winter are Paris’ busiest times for travel.
How many nights in Paris are enough?
Paris is one of the best places to visit in Europe; there’s a lot to see and do — but it’s unreasonable to expect to experience it all in one go. You can spend weeks in Paris without seeing everything. Most Fora Advisors recommend spending at least three full days in the city for the highlights — Notre Dame, the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, Paris’ incredible dining and fashion scene — especially for your first visit.
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