Four Seasons Paris and the 70% Cocoa Hot Chocolate That Ruined All Others

Four Seasons Hotel George V

An Art Deco landmark built in 1928, Four Seasons Hotel George V sits just off the Champs-Élysées in the Golden Triangle. It’s one of those hotels that immediately feels like Paris, elegant, polished, and easy.

Rooms are spacious for Paris, and if you can, upgrade to a suite with a terrace or Eiffel Tower view. That really elevates the whole experience.

The hotel is known for its dining, with three Michelin-starred restaurants. Le Cinq is the most formal and a true experience, L’Orangerie is lighter and more refined, and Le George feels more fun and lively. I would plan at least one dinner at the hotel.

La Galerie is where you’ll have breakfast and afternoon tea, and both are worth slowing down for. Breakfast is included and sets the tone for your day. We had afternoon tea here, and my son ordered the hot chocolate, which is known for being very rich and intense. It was so strong he almost spit it out, which honestly made it even more memorable.

Le Bar is perfect for an evening drink, cozy, intimate, and very Paris at night.

The spa and pool are a big highlight. After long days of walking, having a calm space to reset makes a huge difference.

The hotel is also very family-friendly, offering custom itineraries, welcome amenities, games, and even behind-the-scenes tours, along with babysitting services if needed.

Easy 4–5 day Paris plan

Day 1

Start with the Eiffel Tower, going up is always magical. I’ve also eaten there, and it makes the experience even more special.

Walk along the Seine and over the bridges, including the one known for the love locks. Keep lunch simple nearby, then do a river cruise.

On your way back, pass by the Arc de Triomphe for that iconic view down the Champs-Élysées.

Dinner at the hotel is perfect for your first night.

Day 2

Head to the Louvre Museum early. I’ve seen the Mona Lisa four times, and every time I’m shocked by how small it is. Don’t miss the Winged Victory and Venus de Milo.

Lunch at the Ritz Paris Polo Lounge, which I’ve done and loved.

After, shop around Place Vendôme. I loved this area, and my daughter especially loved going into Guerlain right next to the Ritz, and we also popped into Dior just around the corner.

If you want something really memorable, take a cooking or macaron class at the Ritz. I’ve done a private class there with my husband, which was such a special experience, and also a group macaron class with my girls, which they absolutely loved.

Day 3

Visit Notre-Dame Cathedral, especially meaningful after the fire and rebuild.

Walk through the Latin Quarter, then head to the Paris Catacombs. In the late 1700s, Paris had overflowing cemeteries, so the city moved remains into underground quarry tunnels beneath the streets. Over time, millions of bones were carefully arranged into walls, creating what is now the Catacombs. It’s a little eerie, but fascinating, and very different from the rest of Paris.

After, stop at the Luxembourg Gardens and take a break by the pond. Kids sail little wooden boats here, and it’s such a peaceful, classic Paris moment.

Day 4

Head to Montmartre and see the Place du Tertre. It’s lively, fun, and feels completely different from the rest of Paris.

On the way, you can also pass by the Moulin Rouge for photos.

Spend your last afternoon shopping or revisiting favorite spots, then end with tea or dinner at the hotel.

Optional add-on days

A day trip to Palace of Versailles: About 45 minutes outside the city, known for its incredible gardens and the Hall of Mirrors.

A day at Disneyland Paris: A fun option for kids and teens, about 45 minutes away. If you plan to go, I would add an extra day or two.

Good to know

Paris is one of the easiest cities to travel from.

You can take the train through the underwater tunnel to London in about 2 hours. I’ve done it many times and it’s very easy. I’ve also taken the train to Amsterdam.

For something really special, you can take the overnight Orient Express from Paris to Venice. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and staying at Hotel Danieli in Venice completes it.

My take

Paris can feel like a lot on a first visit, but staying at the Four Seasons makes everything easier.

Additional tips

• Paris is very walkable, but you’ll still cover a lot of ground, so wear comfortable shoes and plan small breaks during the day.

• Try not to overpack your schedule. The best parts of Paris are often the slower moments, sitting at a café, walking along the Seine, or stopping for something sweet.

• Make reservations in advance for popular restaurants and attractions like the Eiffel Tower and Louvre, especially during busy seasons.

• Keep some small cash on hand, and be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas.

• And most importantly, leave room to wander a little. Some of the best moments in Paris are the ones you didn’t plan.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Paris page.