The best hotels in Ile de France

France's most populous region, Ile de France is home to Paris, undoubtedly one of the world's most dazzling cities. It's easily accessible from across the globe, and a wonderful destination in any season. The surrounding countryside, studded with beautiful parkland, forests and historic landmarks is also a huge draw for adventurous visitors. With an almost endless choice of accommodation options, you'll find our Gurus' selection of the best places to stay in Ile de France — which range from charming B&Bs to luxurious châteaux — a brilliant starting point for planning your holiday.

Paris needs little introduction. An iconic city busting with magnificent landmarks, marvellous museums, art galleries, boutiques and fabulous restaurants, it is nothing short of dazzling. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a long-time Parisian devotee, you'll find a plethora of new spots and old neighbourhood favourites to experience in this buzzy metropolis. Step into family-owned boulangeries, pick up vintage finds in the trendy Marais or join Parisians at open-air music nights and hip eateries every night of the week. In a city with so much to offer, it's worth choosing your hotel with care, basing yourself close to the sights that appeal most to you.

To further delve into France's rich history, consider a trip to Versailles or Fontainebleau — both within easy reach of Paris and boasting magnificent châteaux for heritage aficionados to discover. Fontainbleau is also great for outdoorsy travellers, who will delight in discovering the nature park and vast forests. Return to one of the best places to stay in Ile de France for relaxed evenings with fantastic food, wine and French charm.

The Best Places to Stay in Ile de France

For a Charming B&B

• Château de la Vierge, hidden on a secluded estate in Bures-sur-Yvette is a gorgeous, family-run B&B with heaps of classic charm. Traditional rooms boast plenty of individual character, as well as lovely views of the inviting gardens. A tranquil retreat, perfect as a stop on a cycling holiday or a destination in its own right.
• Demeure des Vieux Bains is a marvellous medieval B&B with rooms featuring exposed beams, high celings and open fireplaces. Each room, suite or cottage has been lovingly decorated. Shared areas include a games room with billiard table and lovely grounds. The picturesque village of Provins is UNESCO-listed and very attractive.

For Parisian Romance

• Hotel Bourg Tibourg appears to be a compact Parisian townhouse, but its interiors reveal all the splendour of a Moorish palace, complete with sumputous textiles and innumerable candles. Close to the Pompidou Centre and the Marais, this is a gorgeous 30-room hideaway for couples. Breakfasts are excellent, and there are eateries aplenty on your doorstep.
• Hôtel Providence is boutique, bohemian and intimate, with just 18 rooms decorated with antiques, flea-market treasures and designer pieces. Suites have their own mini-cocktail bar; the best have balconies with views over Montmartre. Set in the 10th arrondissement location, close to the Marché de St-Martin gourmet food market and about 1km from the Pompidou Centre or the Marais.
• L’Hôtel was Oscar Wilde’s Left Bank address until his untimely death. The decor has changed since his time, but it’s still flamboyant and beautiful, arranged around a fabulous circular atrium, with the 20 rooms and suites of various sizes boasting jewel-like colour palettes. There’s also a wonderfully luxurious spa and a candlelit plunge pool.

For Families

• Hotel le Versailles has 45 traditional rooms just minutes from the Palace of Versailles on foot. Book a larger room if travelling as a family for space for up to four guests. Feast on big breakfasts on the sunlit terrace or in the atmospheric dining room, and enjoy drinks at the bar or long soaks in the bathtub each evening. A family-friendly base.
• MOB Hotel, on the edge of Paris' acclaimed Saint-Ouen flea market, is a fun anf fresh lifestyle hotel with chic yet relaxed guestrooms. Those with spaces for families have teepees for little ones to play in, and the courtyard restaurant is great for guests of all ages to unwind. Also very reasonably priced for Paris.
• Hotel de Lille in Saint Germain des Prés has dedicated family suites, perfect for those travelling with little ones. Expect chic, contemporary spaces set behind a 19th-century façade at this welcoming small B&B. Book a room with a private terrace if possible.
• Hotel du Jeu de Paume offers double, triple and family rooms at reasonable rates in the heart of the Versailles. Modern rooms have a cool urban feel, with quirky art and useful soundproofing. The lounge and library are great for kicking back, whilst there are lively markets within walking distance. Great for guests of all ages.
• Hotel des Grands Hommes is a refined townhouse on the doorstep of the Pantheon in Paris' 5th arrondissement. Fantastic 19th-century decor includes neoclassical objets d’art and Naopleonic touches. Large suites with interconnecting bedrooms are ideal for families, as is the central location.

For Foodies

• Trianon Palace is a stunning 18th-century hotel with beautifully decorated interiors, tucked in the parkland of the legendary Château de Versailles. Expect indulgent rooms and suites, a terrific two-Michelin-starred restaurant and a sensational spa. The tennis courts and acres of leafy gardens are lovely.
• Shangri-La Paris has been converted from several turn-of-the-century townhouses, and now offers 100 rooms and suites, a refreshing pool, superb spa and gym. The decor is a marvellous fusion of East and West, pairing the Shangri-La group's own heritage with timeless Parisian style. Two Michelin-starred restaurants make this a foodie favourite: Shang Palace and L'Abeille.
• Hôtel Le Burgundy's Le Baudelaire Restaurant, headed by Chef Anthony Denon, has a proud low-waste ethos and specialises in terrific seasonal fare drawn from as close to Paris as possible. A Michelin-star experience at a hip, design-led hotel for well-heeled travellers.
• Les Etangs de Corot is a striking timber house set near the riverbank in a small hamlet between Paris and Versailles. Pick this place for the understated elegance of its guest rooms, the fabulous Michelin-starred dining at Le Corot Restaurant, and the superb spa. A luxurious retreat.

FOR A DESIGN HOTEL

• Le Petit Moulin, the fabulous 17-room boutique hotel designed by Christian Lacroix, is perfectly positioned in the romantic Marais part of Paris. Each room is totally unique, yet each is bold, bright and beautiful. The building's original façade has been carefully maintained, reminding guests that this was one of the oldest boulangeries in Paris — reputedly where Victor Hugo bought his baguettes.
• La Demeure du Parc has chic, contemporary rooms near the centre of Fontainebleau. Designed by reputable architect Mohamed Adib, interiors are swish and stylish. Plus there’s a trendy bar and a fabulous gastronomic restaurant. For foodies or design lovers.
• Fouquet’s Barrière is a collaboration between architect Edouard Francois and designer Jacques Garcia, the aim being to create a 21st Century French palace. Quirky touches include golden sofas, chocolate-coloured leather walls and a pink velvet lounge bedecked in vintage artefacts. Don't miss dining at Michelin-starred Le Diane, one of five restaurants.
• 1K Hotel is a super cool four-star hotel in the Marais, with a hip cocktail bar, 52 design-led rooms with white-on-white interiors, unusual artwork and lots of natural light. The best two rooms have their own private plunge pools, and the Marais is right on your doorstep.

FOR A CHÂTEAU ESCAPE

• Château de Bourron has been transformed into a gorgeous six-bedroom hotel with original furniture, marble and parquet flooring and a gourmet restaurant. Play tennis onsite and golf nearby, or simply unwind in eight acres of grounds and manicured gardens at this indulgent rural retreat.
• Château de Villiers le Mahieu boasts is own moat and manicured grounds in a 12-hectare wooded park. Interiors channel classic French style with a modern twist, including chintz fabrics, pastel wallpapers and big cosy beds. The spoiling spa and excellent restaurant are perfect for laid-back countryside holidays.
• Château d'Augerville, 24 kilometres from Fontainebleau, promises a magical rural escape. Set amidst rolling parkland, the hotel boasts a soothing spa, a scenic golf course and a beautifully panelled dining room for romantic gourmet dinners. Very relaxed.

FOR AN APARTMENT or Holiday House

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Paris' Charles de Gaulle Airport or to Paris Orly Airport, and in to the city or beyond by car, shuttle, train or metro. If journeying from the UK, take the Eurostar to Paris, and the TGV/SNCF to your destination from there.
• Ile de France is well-connected by public transport, but the flexibility of a car is wonderful if you plan to explore beyond the main hubs. Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Travel during the summer months for the warmest weather, although this is the busiest time of year. Spring and autumn are quieter, cooler and very picturesque.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Paris.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in France.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.