Grand Hotel du Palais Royal

Paris is a city steeped in history, and staying in one of its historic hotels can transport you back in time to a bygone era. Our pick of the best historic hotels here covers everything from former homes of royalty to renovated buildings that effortlessly blend original features with sleek, modern luxuries. This city's historic hotels offer a unique mix of past and present; each property has its own story, beautifully reflected in the décor and ambience, providing a rich and often romantic escape. Take your own step back in time and pick out one of these historic gems.

For a luxury stay

Hôtel de Crillon

  • Hôtel de Crillon is a Parisian grand dame oozing historic charm. From the gorgeous piano bar adorned with dazzling chandeliers to the plush suites with bespoke furnishings, you'll find nothing but refined style. Set in a beautifully appointed 18th century palace, you really feel like royalty here, surrounded by objets d’art, fine dining and a luxurious spa.
  • Hotel Lutetia is a very chic establishment that combines classical Parisian architecture with contemporary style. Boasting a couple of restaurants, stylish bars and a luxury spa, it radiates elegance. Within walking distance of many attractions such as the Louvre, le Pont Neuf and Le Jardin de Luxembourg.

Hotel Le Meurice

  • The epitome of Parisian luxury, Hotel Le Meurice glitters in gold, marble and glass with suites adorned with period furnishings and rich fabrics. Dine at the exquisite Le Meurice Restaurant by Alain Ducasse, with its two Michelin stars, and relax at the indulgent spa. Opposite the Louvre, it's in a stunning location too.
  • Hotel d'Aubusson is a charming 17th century townhouse in the heart of cultural Paris, surrounded by famous cafes, museums and top shopping! Expect elegant character here with exposed beams, period-style furniture and a chic piano bar. The comfortable bedrooms cocoon their inhabitants in sound-proofed luxury.

For the views

Grand Hotel du Palais Royal

  • Floor-to-ceiling windows frame spectacular views at Grand Hotel du Palais Royal, an impressive five-star in the heart of the city. Enjoy a fantastic restaurant, a spoiling spa and easy access to the top sights. The tranquil gardens of Palais Royal are across the road, and Place Vendôme and Palais Garnier are just minutes from the hotel.
  • Choose between jewel-box like rooms and themed suites at L'Hotel, an iconic property where Oscar Wilde once lived on the Left Bank. The interiors are gloriously decadent, private balconies boast stunning rooftop views, and there's a candlelit plunge pool for a touch of romance.
  • Le Relais du Louvre overlooks the Église Saint-Germain l'Auxerrois, in the 1st Arrondissement. As well as enjoying amazing views of its historic surroundings, guests can expect in-room breakfasts, classic French furnishings and a convenient location. Very handy for the fashionable Le Fumoir in Place du Louvre, and the great museum itself.

For a family getaway

Hotel du Louvre

  • Located right by the Opera Garnier, the Palais Royale, and (not surprisingly!) the Louvre, Hotel du Louvre is a lovely family choice. This traditional Haussmann building still boasts its original façade and Juliet balconies, but inside it's all elegance and modern comfort. Family rooms and suites with cute bunk beds are available, and babysitting, kids' meals and packed lunches are on offer too. For the adults, there's a gorgeous glass-roofed cocktail bar.
  • Families are warmly welcomed at Le Bristol with its spacious rooms and suites and dedicated kids club. This luxury property boasts antiques and original artwork, two Michelin-starred restaurants, a spoiling spa (with treatments for kids too!) and a rooftop pool. The family pets will feel at home here with food bowls, treats and luxurious embroidered bedding. Luxury for the whole family!
  • Hotel Verneuil is a quiet option nestled in the historic and arty area of St Germain des Prés. There are adjoining rooms that can form a family suite, plus a comfy lounge and a cellar breakfast room. Wonderfully located for exploring the city, plus the concierge will organise priority passes to Paris's top sites.

For the romance

Relais Christine

  • Nestled on the Left Bank in a peaceful area not far from the Seine, Relais Christine gives guests a true taste of classical French style and romance. For an intimate escape, choose one of the rooms with a private terrace and access to the garden, and relax at Spa Guerlain with its two treatment rooms, dry sauna, and whirlpool tub. A charming retreat.
  • Hotel Vernet occupies a classic Haussmann building steps from the Champs-Elysées. A stylish bar serves up deliciously crafted cocktails while the restaurant offers gourmet French fare underneath a spectacular stained glass ceiling. Many original features can still be found throughout the hotel, from the classical coving and columns to the wrought iron lift and gilded marble fireplaces.
  • Romance and glamour are the order of the day at Maison Athenee, a boutique pied à terre close to Opéra Garnier. Think satin drapes, damask trims and luxurious Hermès toiletries. Opera-inspired interiors bring the drama, while a classic smoking room and petit salon add to the sultry atmosphere.

For a heavenly spa

Hotel Molitor

  • Hotel Molitor is a modern and stylish Art Deco hotel in what were once Paris's most popular swimming baths. The wellness theme continues today. The vast spa by Clarins follows a sports approach, with treatments such as icoone and cryotherapy as well as beauty massages. The heated outdoor pool is open all year, and the indoor pool dates back to the 1930s. An oasis in the city.
  • Pavillon de la Reine is a sophisticated romantic pick. This fine 17th century mansion on Place des Vosges was once the residence of Anne of Austria, wife of Louis XIII, but now feels more like a chic country house where guests enjoy four-poster beds and wonderful views of the city. The spa provides lavish treatments, and the rejuvenating hammam is a real treat.
  • Set in the heart of the picturesque neighbourhood of MontmartreMaison Souquet makes a great base for local exploring. The 20 rooms are romantic and opulent think rich hues, velvet and silk. Reserve exclusive use of the hotel's spa and swimming pool for the ultimate in relaxation.

Still not sure? 

Written by Jan Gooderham

16 Historic Hotels in Paris

L'Hôtel, Paris

Paris (St-Germain-des-Prés)

Iconic, small, five star hotel where Oscar Wilde once lived on the Left Bank. Flamboyant interiors by Jacques Garcia, and the popular Le Bar. Comfortable and romantic rooms are dark and intimate — the perfect luxurious bolthole in the heart of Paris.

  • Romantic Break - Paris is known as the city of love and L' Hôtel caters for this brilliantly.
  • Sights nearby - Just across the river from the Louvre.
  • 5* Luxury - The smallest 5* hotel in Paris.
  • Swimming Pool - Small plunge pool.
from CA$647 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Pavillon de la Reine

Paris (Le Marais)

Country house meets 17th Century Parisian mansion on Place des Vosges - hands down the finest square in Paris. Updated interiors and plush bedrooms make for a perfect honeymoon location. Enjoy the serene spa, have a drink at the honesty bar and location means you can walk everywhere.

  • Romantic Break - Sip on champagne in your chic suite with plush linens, sumptuous four poster beds and wonderful views of this romantic city.
  • Great walks - Take a stroll around Place des Vosges, lined with trees and red brick houses, built by Henri IV in 1612.
  • Restaurant - The new restaurant Anne serves gastronomic dished from chef Mathieu Pacaud
  • Sights nearby - The famed Place de la Bastille is within a few minute walk.
from CA$800 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Hotel Verneuil

Paris (St-Germain-des-Prés)

Quiet and romantic hotel nestled in the historic and arty area of St Germain des Prés. Recently refurbished rooms are well lit, cosy and complete with antiques and books. Wake up to breakfast in bed before heading out and exploring the city. A true Parisian gem.

  • Local exploring - Wonderfully located for exploring the city, plus the conceirge will orchestrate priority passes to Paris' top sites.
  • City Style - Spectacularly renovated 17th-century townhouse, surrounded by elegant streets and art-drenched cafés.
  • Sights nearby - Wonderfully located with Musée d'Orsay, Louvre, Les Invalides and the Seine within a few minutes walk.
  • Boutique
from CA$391 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Le Relais du Louvre

Paris (Les Halles)

An elegant little hotel overlooking the Église Saint-Germain l'Auxerrois, in the first Arrondissement. The chic rooms feature individual detail, classic French furnishings and unparalleled views of its historic surroundings. Perfectly reflects the romantic charm of Paris.

  • Great walks - Take a stroll through the Jardin des Tuileries, one of the most elegant gardens in Paris.
  • Local markets - Explore one of Paris’ oldest open air market streets, rue Montorgeuil.
  • Sights nearby - Located between the Louvre and Notre Dame.
  • Boutique
from CA$372 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Hotel d'Aubusson

Paris (St-Germain-des-Prés)

17th-Century honey-stone townhouse turned luxury hotel. Ideally situated on the Left Bank of the Seine, this period-style hotel is smart and well run. Comfortable rooms are decked with quality furnishings and exposed beams. Enjoy a drink at the Piano Bar or on the quiet patio.

  • Total relaxation - Shed the stress of the Paris streets with a massage in the comfort of your plush room, or read a book in the leafy courtyard.
  • Local exploring - The heart of cultural Paris, surrounded by famous cafes frequented by all the greats, museums and show stopping shopping!
  • Sights nearby - A scenic ten minute walk towards the river brings you to Notre Dame Cathedral, a Paris must see!
  • Restaurant - Cafe Laurent.
from CA$873 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Hotel Le Meurice

Paris (Faubourg St Honore)

The epitome of Parisian luxury takes form at this five star, fantastically located, hotel. Old empire style throughout. Large, beautiful and chic rooms vary in size. Michelin star dining, popular Bar 228 and the spa are for guests to truly unwind in the capital. A real treat, when in Paris!

  • Families - Expect pampering for everyone from tots to dogs, with special toys and entertainments arranged at the drop of a hat.
  • Foodies - Le Meurice Restaurant by Alain Ducasse, with its two Michelin stars is one of the finest restaurants in Paris.
  • City Style - Opulence in the heart of the city- suites dripping in chandeliers, period furnishings and rich fabrics.
  • Sights nearby - Opposite the Louvre, and under ten minutes walk from the Place de la Concorde and the Champs-Elysées.
from CA$1306 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Le Bristol

Paris (Faubourg St Honore)

Opulence and luxury in the heart of Paris' designer district. Outstanding service from super friendly staff. Rooms are stuffed with antiques and original artworks and bedrooms are huge. Michelin starred dining and the only hotel rooftop pool in Paris.

  • Restaurant - The Epicure has three Michelin Stars and 114 Faubourg has one.
  • Designer Shopping - Located on the Rue du Faubourg Saint Honoré
  • Garden - Stunning courtyard garden
  • Gourmet
from CA$1398 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Relais Christine

Paris (latin quarter)

Nestled on the Left Bank in a peaceful area not far from the banks of the Seine, the small luxury five-star Relais Christine is a relaxing retreat that gives guests a true taste of classical French style and romance. Lovely gardens and excellent buffet breakfasts. Perfect for a romantic break.

  • Spa - Spa Guerlain with two treatment rooms, dry sauna, and whirlpool tub
  • Restaurant
  • Spa breaks
  • Sights nearby
from CA$663 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Grand Hotel du Palais Royal

Paris (Les Halles)

A grand five star hotel in the heart of the city. Fresh and contemporary rooms feature soft hues, floor to ceiling windows with spectacular views, terraces and wooden floors. The fantastic restaurant Le Lulli puts a modern twist on French bistro cuisine. A luxurious base with great city access.

  • City Style - An elegant five star hotel complete with spa and fabulous restaurant in the heart of the city.
  • Great walks - Wander through the tranquil gardens of Palais Royal just across the road.
  • Sights nearby - Find Place Vendôme and Palais Garner just minutes from the hotel.
  • Spa
from CA$1212 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Hotel Lutetia

Paris (St Germain des Pres)

Opened in 1910 the Lutetia is a landmark of Paris. The spacious rooms have contemporary furnishings, featuring parquet flooring and classical French windows. Boasting a fabulous restaurant headed by three-starred Michelin chef, a string of stylish bars and a luxury spa. Parisian chic at its finest.

  • Local exploring - Within walking distance to many attractions such as the Louvre, le Pont Neuf and Le Jardin de Luxembourg
  • City Style - A chic establishment that combines classical Parisian architecture with contemporary style
  • Spa breaks - The Ashkasa Spa has much to offer from steam rooms to an extensive range of massages
  • Foodies - Don't miss the Lutetia Brasserie, headed by chef Patrick Charvet
from CA$1185 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Hôtel Vernet

Paris (Champs Elysees)

This boutique, five-star hotel occupies a classic Haussmann building steps from the Champs-Elysées. Having undergone a recent renovation, guestrooms are chic and contemporary with warm lighting from feature lamps. Dine under a spectacular glass atrium in gourmet Restaurant V; a stylish city break.

  • Local exploring - With central Paris literally on your doorstep, this hotel's unbeatable location makes it perfect for local exploring
  • Foodies - Reserve a table at semi-gourmet Restaurant V - headed by executive chef Richard Robe - for a romantic dinner
  • City Style - Located in a beautifully appointed Haussmann property, this hotel has reams of chic Parisian style
  • Great walks - Explore the picturesque streets of the city of lovers on a long walk; head to the Sacré Coeur for a romantic sunset
from CA$792 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Maison Souquet Hotel & Spa

Paris (Montmartre)

Set in a former Montmartre pleasure house, this unique hotel revives Parisian Belle Époque charm. Guest rooms are opulent love nests woven from hand-selected luxury silks; book a suite for haute-couture style. Reserve exclusive use of the hotel's spa and swimming pool; a decadent city hideaway.

  • Local exploring - Set in the heart of the picturesque Parisian neighbourhood of Monmartre, this hotel makes a great base for local exploring
  • Honeymoons - Book this opulent Paris bolt-hole for a luxury honeymoon; reserve private use of the spa to complete the experience
  • Romantic Break - Couples rate this boutique hotel highly; book a suite for added indulgence
  • Great walks - Wander the picture-perfect streets of Paris on a long walk; head to the Sacré-Coeur for a romantic sunset
from CA$606 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Hôtel de Crillon

Paris (Faubourg St Honore)

The refined, Parisian art de vivre shines through in this neoclassical palace hotel. Guestrooms feature a mix of bespoke furnishings, hand-selected antiques and objets d’art; Rivolta Carmignani linen completes the luxury feel. Dine on the Yacht Club terrace before visiting the spa; an opulent hotel.

  • Foodies - With a plethora of restaurants onsite, this hotel is great for foodies; book a private dinner in La Cave for a special evening
  • Local exploring - Set in the heart of Paris, a stone's throw from the Champs-Elysées, use this hotel as a base for your local exploring
  • City Style - Set in a beautifully appointed 18th-century palace, this hotel has reams of refined Parisian style
  • Sights nearby - A trip to Paris would not be complete without visiting the Eiffel Tower, the most renowned landmark in the city
from CA$1568 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Maison Athénée

Paris (Opera)

This boutique pied à terre sits close to Opéra Garnier in central Paris. Opera-inspired interiors by Jacques Garcia are sleek and elegant, invoking a boudoir with satin drapes and damask trims; Hermès toiletries add to the luxury experience. A classic smoking room and petit salon complete the hotel.

  • City Style - Dressed by one of the most celebrated designer in Paris, and with an unbeatable location, this hotel has reams of Parisian charm
  • Families - Family rooms at this hotel can accommodate children and the location makes sightseeing with young ones easier
  • Local exploring - Set close to the Opéra Garnier, this hotel is within walking distance of most of Paris' best attractions
  • Great walks - See picturesque Paris on a long walk through the city; start at the pretty Jardin des Tuileries close to the hotel
from CA$364 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Hotel Molitor

Paris (16th Arrondissement)

A modern and stylish Art-Deco hotel in what was once Paris' most popular swimming baths. Rooms are sleek and sophisticated, with contemporary furnishings and modern art galore. Party at the rooftop Brasserie and Bar or relax at the Spa by Clarins — the largest hotel spa in Europe! A trendy choice.

  • Historic - Once Paris' favoured swimming baths from 1929. Reinvented as a hotel, with the sense of a cruiseship with rooms around the pool
  • Artworks - Street artists from all over the world have created a graffiti paradise in what was once cubicles of the indoor swimming pool
  • City Style - Art-deco style building, with sleek and sophisticated interiors, views over Paris and hidden artistic discoveries
  • Contemporary - Interiors designed by Jean Philippe Nuel, rooms are luxurious and up-to-date with Modern and Urban Art influences
from CA$572 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
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Hotel du Louvre

Paris (Les Halles)

Located between Opera Garnier and The Louvre, this hotel is stunning inside and out. Beautiful rooms are delicately designed with soft, elegant decor and some offer breathtaking city views. Plus there's a refined brasserie for authentic cuisine and a fabulous cocktail bar. Très chic.

  • Outstanding location - Not only is the Louvre Museum a 2 minute walk away, Tuileries Garden is next to the hotel and Palais Garnier is a 15 minute walk
  • Museums - See some of France's finest art: Musee des Arts Decoratifs, Musée d'Orsay and Musée de l'Orangerie all within a 16 minute walk
  • Romantic Break - In the center of the 'City of Lights', elegant Parisian rooms some of which feature breakthtaking views of Paris' monuments
  • Families - Babysitting, kids meals, packed lunches and family rooms/suites with bunkbeds all available
from CA$1051 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

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