Every Hotel I’ve Stayed at in Paris (and which I recommend)
Hi, Samantha here - Eldest & Co founder. If there is one city in Europe I have been to more than any other, it’s Paris. At this point, I believe I have been to Paris at least ten times in visits ranging from a one day stop-over to a five day relaxed exploration.
Whether it’s your first trip or your fiftieth, there’s something undeniably magical about the City of Light. It’s a city I’ve come to know well, to the point that I have opinions on many things, especially for visitors trying to make the most out of their visits and solo travelers who want to feel the magic of the city. But we have to be honest that finding a place to stay can feel overwhelming so I want to share the places I have actually stayed at myself and can personally verify so you can make the best decision for your next Parisian adventure.
Where to stay in Paris: a guide to our favorite hotels
Choosing the right hotel in Paris depends on what type of trip you’re planning. Do you want to be able to have lazy mornings with room service or will you be immediately up and out to sightsee and the affordability matters more? Luckily, I’ve had them all and have a few favorites that I think you’ll love. Let’s explore them together, shall we?
Hotel Therese: snug and stylish in the first arrondissement
First up is Hotel Therese, a delightful gem tucked away in the first arrondissement. The rooms are snug but beautifully designed, making you feel right at home the moment you step inside. The location is ideal for first-time visitors, with the Louvre and Palais Royal just a stone's throw away. You trade a bit in quality and certainly room size to be in the thick of it all but especially for solo travelers, this one is a great option to save a few dollars but not feel like you’re in a dingy spot. My only complaint was the very compact shower! If you're looking for a cute place in the thick of one of the most popular arrondissements for sightseeing, this one is definitely a winner.
Solly Hotel: the Goldilocks of affordable stays
Next, let’s talk about Solly Hotel, which we like to refer to as our Goldilocks choice. It’s just right - affordable, well-located, and oh-so-charming. It’s new and you can tell it in the finishes in the bathroom and lobby and it feels super fresh and energetic. It’s not in the most hip neighborhood but it’s super centrally located to get to those neighborhoods, like the Marais and the 1st arrondissemment with a quick walk and to almost anywhere in central Paris via an easy metro ride. The rooms are fresh and the lobby has plenty of seating area if you’re a digital nomad who needs to get a bit of work done in the morning. I’ve stayed here multiple times, including my most recent trip so you know it’s a good reco!
Hotel Bienvenue: a budget-friendly option
Now, if you’re really watching your budget, this would be my reco. The lobby is adorable and I love their branding, so that’s amazing. The rooms here are small and missing some of the typical quality in amenities like coffee maker or bathroom size but the chunk they’ll take out of your budget is portioned accordingly. You won’t be in the heart of the adorable neighborhoods but you’re not way outside of central Paris, certainly still walkable to good neighborhoods or big metro stations that can get you anywhere. The staff was accommodating of a reservation change and very kind to help me with bags in a tiny elevator so even though it’s the least luxurious on this list, I still recommend!
Le Pavillon des Lettres: fabulous but not our favorite neighborhood
For those wanting a touch of elegance, we recommend Le Pavillon des Lettres. The hotel was fabulous, with great quality finishes, super comfortable bed and a little literary flare: each room named after a famous writer. The decor is chic, and if you’re lucky like I was, you’ll get upgraded to a top floor room that came with my own private patio to look out at the Eiffel Tower in the morning. However, I’ll be honest - the neighborhood wasn’t my favorite. I was staying there because of a wedding nearby but if I were coming on my own, this neighborhood was a little too far from relevant metro stops to feel easy to pop elsewhere in central Paris.
Victoria Palace Hotel: perfect for left bank lovers
Last but certainly not least, let’s talk about the Victoria Palace Hotel. If you prefer the Left Bank, this hotel is an easy spot to consider. It’s located near the Montparnasse area, which has its unique charm and character. The rooms are spacious, and all the finishes were nice. You’re within a quick walk to much of the shopping in St. Germain and very convenient to metro stops. The hotel is off of a major street that felt a bit touchy on one late night walk home but with my wits about me, all was manageable and no better or worse than any other major city. If you’re a fan of the Left Bank, this hotel could be the perfect fit for your Parisian adventure.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best area to stay in Paris?
The best area to stay in Paris depends on your personal preferences and whether you’re focused on sightseeing, shopping or dining like a local. The Marais is trendy and lively, with lots for visitors to explore, but you can also stay not far from there in Les Halles for lower prices without compromising on location. If you love classic sights, the first arrondissement is perfect for easy access to the Louvre and Palais Royal but might have slightly higher prices. I often stay on the right bank (north of the river) but spend much time exploring the left bank because it’s so easy to get around so don’t stress too much about getting the exact right spots.
Where should I eat in Paris?
For this, I will refer you to my other Paris posts: The Paris Guide will walk you through my favorite recommendations when it comes to sightseeing and restaurants!
Do I need to know French to stay in Paris?
While knowing a bit of French can be helpful, many people in the hospitality industry speak English. Most importantly, when you walk into any store or restaurant, the cultural custom is to say bonjour (good day!) or bonsoir (good evening!) and merci (thank you!) when you’re leaving, even if those are the only words you know. A friendly smile and a few basic phrases can go a long way, though!
What is the best time to visit Paris?
The best time to visit Paris, in my opinion, is during spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are smaller.
