3 Unique Hotels In Paris - Where To Stay?
“Paris is always a good idea”
Each year over 20 million people visit the city of love. Whether you're heading over to France for the sights such as the Notre Dame and the Louvre or for the wine, food, and fashion – or all the above, you need to stay somewhere, right? And while you’re at it, why shouldn’t you stay someplace special? Preferably a spot with a great view of one of the most iconic landmarks in the world – the Eiffel tower.
I’ve visited Paris multiple times in my lifetime, and here are three hotels I’ve stayed at recently that I think are worth considering.
I’m sure there are more beautiful hotels in Paris that are worth mentioning, but these are the ones that I personally stayed at, so I can speak from experience.
1. Shangri-La, Paris
If you’ve done some research online, you’ve probably come across this hotel already. The Shangri-La Hotel is centrally located in the 16th arrondissement, minutes from the Champs-Elysées and near the Eiffel Tower. The hotel is housed in the former mansion house built in 1896 for Prince Roland Bonaparte, the great-nephew of Napoléon. The hotel is known for its magnificent interior and breathtaking room views of the Eiffel Tower. Shangri-La Paris has multiple restaurants and bars that are definitely worth trying.
Personally, what stood out to me the most was the excellent service. From the moment you arrive, you’re treated like a star. I know what you think: it’s a luxury hotel that’s what you pay for. Let me tell you that I’ve stayed at multiple 5-star hotels around the world, and my experience here was next level. Also, the breakfast is amazing. Period.
If you’re planning on staying here, I would splurge on a room with a terrace and a view. We booked the Terrace Eiffel View Room. From this room, you can view the Eiffel Tower from the bed and the bathtub. Additionally, you’ll find stairs leading up to your private terrace, where you can enjoy your breakfast with a side of view.
Insider-tip
In spring-summer, the Shangri-La Hotel opens a rooftop bar overlooking the Eiffel Tower. If you can’t stay at the hotel but still want to experience the view, this is a really great alternative.
2. Le Metropolitan
I came across this hotel on Instagram, and I have to say the view is just as beautiful without all the influencer filters. The hotel is located in a quiet area of Paris and within walking distance of the Eiffel Tower. The subway station (Trocodero) is very close, so you can easily explore Paris further.
Le Metropolitan is significantly cheaper than the Shangri-La hotel, so I don’t think it’s fair to compare the two. However, if I have to be honest, the only reason why I would come back to this hotel is the magnificent view. The rooms (we stayed in the Eiffel View Suite) are quite small and narrow, so if you're traveling with a larger suitcase, you will trip over it at one point. I didn’t have dinner here, but the breakfast that was included in the price only offered a coffee, orange juice, and a croissant. If you want any type of eggs or fruit etc., you will have to pay extra.
Another thing to be aware of is that they make you sign a document stating that you won’t move the mattress, and if you do, you’ll have to pay a fine.
Insider-tip
As I mentioned before, the view is magnificent and really (in my honest opinion) the only thing 5-star worthy thing about this hotel. However, if you want to experience the view you saw on Instagram with your own eyes, I recommend getting a bottle of wine from the supermarket next to the hotel and drinking it while enjoying the view with open windows.
3. Airelles Château De Versailles, Le Grand Contrôle
I know, I know – Versailles is not technically IN Paris, but I couldn’t resist adding this hotel to the list, and I’m guessing if you’re planning on going to Paris, you’re also planning to visit Versailles, right? Ever since I was a kid, I’ve been obsessed with this castle. Imagine my enthusiasm when I found out a hotel was opened on the premises. Airelles is a 5-star luxury chain with hotels and palaces around France. Unlike the previously mentioned 5 stars, these hotels are exactly what you would imagine when you think of ultimate luxury.
Le Grand Contrôle opened its doors in June of 2021 after years of renovations. It’s the only hotel located on the grounds of Chateau de Versailles. With only 11 rooms and 2 suits, and a separate entrance to the castle, the hotel offers exclusivities you won’t find anywhere else.
From the moment you arrive, and even before, you get treated like royalty. Most activities and dining options are already included in the price, so the only thing you need to worry about is choosing what to do and when. From breakfast to dinner, and from guided private tours around Château de Versailles and the gardens, you name it – you got it. There’s also a gorgeous spa on the premises where you can relax after your visit.
Yes, the price is incredibly steep, and I’m aware this won’t be a stay that’s accessible for everyone. I stayed here for one night for my birthday, and I also think that’s more than enough. Your trip will be packed with lots of back-to-back activities, but there’s also more than enough time to relax. Keep in mind when you think about the price that everything is included. From a FULLY stocked mini-bar, (the best one I’ve seen) to afternoon tea and a Michelin-star dinner (excl. wine) – the price for your room is what you’ll end up paying.
Insider-tip
As a private tour of Chateau de Versailles is included in your stay, you’ll get to experience the Hall of Mirrors after closing. Meaning there won’t be anyone, and you’ll get to take allllll the pictures you want. One side note – as the tour takes you around more than just the hall, you must wear comfortable shoes. If you plan on wearing a dress to take pictures in (I opted for a Princess Gown because when else do I get to play princess??), be aware that you will also walk through narrow corridors, so your dress must fit. This might seem like unnecessary information, but the staff at the hotel needed to check my dress beforehand as more women had the idea to become a princess overnight. Apparently, the dresses they had in mind were too big.
