The very best: top 10 hotels in Paris

As a hub for art, culture and culinary excellence, France’s capital is incredibly popular, attracting more than 47 million visitors in 2023. This makes Paris one of the world’s most visited cities and also a highly sought-after destination for aspiring hospitality professionals. Hotels in Paris enchant visitors with their historical charm and modern luxury. From boutique hotels in Montmartre to grand establishments near the Champs-Élysées, these businesses offer stunning views, exquisite decor and exceptional service. Their unique atmospheres capture the essence of Parisian culture, adding to the city’s attraction and romantic ambiance and making every stay unforgettable.

For those dreaming of a hospitality career, hotels in Paris offer opportunities to advance professionally while immersing yourself in luxury and refinement. Let’s take a look at the top 10 hotels in Paris and what makes them stand out as a gold standard for hospitality.

Le Bristol Paris

This legendary hotel is the epitome of timeless elegance and luxurious indulgence. Since its opening in 1925, Le Bristol Paris has been a sanctuary for royalty and celebrities, boasting a rich history steeped in sophistication and charm. Its opulent interiors, decorated by renowned artisans, evoke a sense of grandeur and refinement, offering guests an experience of French ‘art de vivre’.

With Michelin-starred dining led by Chef Eric Frechon in the acclaimed Epicure restaurant, Le Bristol Paris tantalizes the senses with exquisite culinary creations. The hotel’s lush gardens provide a moment of calm amid the bustling city, while the spacious and lavishly appointed suites ensure every stay is comfortable and luxurious. Whether savoring afternoon tea in the elegant Salon Castellane or unwinding at the indulgent Spa Le Bristol by La Prairie, hotel guests are surrounded by a world where sophistication meets great hospitality.

Shangri-La Paris

Nestled in the historic heart of Paris, this palatial hotel exudes an aura of refined luxury and cultural splendor. Originally built as a private mansion in 1896 by Prince Roland Bonaparte, great-nephew of Napoleon, Shangri-La Paris blends historical elegance with modern sophistication. Boasting breathtaking views of the Eiffel Tower and River Seine from many of its rooms and suites, the Shangri-La Paris offers an exceptional setting for guests seeking the ultimate Parisian experience. Highly skilled restoration work has preserved the mansion’s original frescoes, woodwork and grand staircase, ensuring every corner tells a story of opulence and grandeur.

The hotel’s culinary experiences include the Michelin-starred L’Abeille restaurant, overseen by Executive Chef Christophe Moret. It offers the chance to sample the pinnacle of culinary excellence with a focus on French haute cuisine. Hotel guests can unwind at the tranquil Chi, The Spa or indulge in afternoon tea in the stunning La Bauhinia lounge, all while experiencing the legendary Shangri-La hospitality that sets standards for luxury hotels.

Hôtel Ritz Paris

Located on the prestigious Place Vendôme, this world-renowned establishment benefits from a prime placement and has exuded luxury and elegance since its opening in 1898. Famous for its refined French style and impeccable service, the Hôtel Ritz Paris has been a favorite haunt of royalty, celebrities and artists for more than a century. Its opulent décor, including the iconic Coco Chanel Suite, reflects a timeless sophistication that mixes traditional and modern comforts. Hotel guests can indulge in world-class dining at the Michelin-starred L’Espadon restaurant and unwind in the tranquil Ritz Club Paris spa, making every stay a quintessential Parisian experience.

Four Seasons Hotel George V

Overlooking the Champs-Élysées, this five-star hotel epitomizes Parisian grandeur and luxury. Dating back to 1928, Four Seasons Hotel George V boasts an art deco facade and lavishly appointed interiors adorned with exquisite floral arrangements. Renowned for its service and three Michelin-starred restaurants, including the acclaimed Le Cinq, the George V offers an unparalleled gastronomic experience. The sumptuous spa and beautifully appointed suites, some with views of the Eiffel Tower, ensure each guest enjoys a stay filled with comfort, elegance and sophistication.

If working in an establishment in the heart of one of the world’s best-loved cities is on your wishlist, you need to build the right hospitality skills to succeed – studying for a degree in hotel management can help.

Mandarin Oriental, Paris

Nestled amid the haute couture boutiques of Rue Saint-Honoré, this high-end establishment offers a contemporary oasis in the heart of Paris. Known for its sleek design and Asian-inspired luxury, Mandarin Oriental combines Eastern and Western aesthetics.

The spacious rooms and suites feature exquisite decor and state-of-the-art amenities, while the Michelin-starred Sur Mesure restaurant by Chef Thierry Marx serves guests innovative French cuisine. With a tranquil spa offering bespoke treatments and a central location near the Louvre, the Mandarin Oriental is firmly focused on creating unforgettable experiences for guests.

Hôtel de Crillon

Situated on the elegant Place de la Concorde, this Rosewood Hotel is an historic landmark renowned for its neoclassical architecture and luxurious interiors. Originally commissioned in 1758, Hôtel de Crillon exudes French charm with its beautiful suites, including the spectacular Bernstein Suite.

Guests can enjoy gastronomic delights at the Michelin-starred L’Ecrin restaurant with wines or a meticulously chosen range of Japanese sakes by Xavier Thuizat, recognized as the Best Sommelier of France 2022 and a Meilleur Ouvrier de France. Sense, A Rosewood Spa also offers treatments to ensure relaxation and rejuvenation. With its storied past and exceptional service levels, the Hôtel de Crillon offers a truly exceptional experience in the heart of Paris.

The Peninsula Paris

Occupying a historic building near the Arc de Triomphe in the 16th arrondissement, you’ll find Parisian chic mixed with Asian hospitality to create an unforgettable experience. Combining extravagant luxury with boutique hotel vibes, The Peninsula Paris provides grandeur and intimacy. This grand hotel opened in 2014 and boasts luxurious rooms and suites adorned with art deco accents and high-tech amenities.

Guests can savour exquisite cuisine at L’Oiseau Blanc, which has sweeping views of the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe, and indulge in the Peninsula Spa. With impeccable service and a central location, The Peninsula offers a modern take on Parisian grandeur, ensuring comfort and luxury for every guest and a unique location for its hospitality employees.

Hôtel Plaza Athénée

Located on Avenue Montaigne, synonymous with haute couture, this palace hotel has been an icon of Parisian elegance since 1913. Hôtel Plaza Athénée is the epitome of sophistication with its classic French decor and luxurious amenities, including the stunning Eiffel Suite that has stunning views of the Eiffel Tower.

Guests at the Hôtel Plaza Athénée can indulge in the legendary international cuisine scene at its Michelin-starred restaurant. They can also relax at the Dior Institut spa for ultimate pampering. With its prestigious address and impeccable service, Hôtel Plaza Athénée continues to charm guests seeking the finest in luxury hospitality.

Le Meurice

In the heart of Paris in the 1st arrondissement overlooking the Tuileries Garden, this remarkable hotel has epitomized French style and elegance since 1835. Le Meurice, adorned with splendid decor and Louis XVI-style interiors, has been a favorite of royalty, artists and celebrities throughout its history. Each of its rooms and suites, including the lavish Belle Etoile Suite with its private terrace offering breathtaking views of Paris, is the picture of luxury and sophistication.

Guests can enjoy dining at the two Michelin-starred Restaurant Le Meurice Alain Ducasse, where exquisite cuisine meets impeccable service. The hotel’s Spa Valmont offers a serene retreat with personalized treatments, ensuring every stay at the 5-star Le Meurice is a memorable one.

Hôtel Lutetia

Originally opened in 1910 in the vibrant Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood, this luxurious destination is an icon of Parisian Left Bank elegance and charm. Recently reopened after an extensive renovation, Hôtel Lutetia offers art nouveau and art deco styles with contemporary luxury, offering guests both heritage and modernity.

Its beautifully appointed rooms and suites feature elegant decor and state-of-the-art amenities, while the Lutetia Brasserie, under the direction of Michelin-starred Chef Gérald Passedat, delights guests with gourmet French cuisine. The Akasha Holistic Wellness Center provides relaxation and wellness, making Hôtel Lutetia a favorite hotel choice for travelers seeking a luxurious, relaxing and culturally rich experience in Paris.

Conclusion

Paris is a center for art, culture and culinary excellence, making it one of the world’s most sought-after destinations for travelers and aspiring hospitality professionals alike. The city’s top hotels offer the pinnacle of luxury and service, each with a mix of history, elegance and sophistication.

Working in these esteemed establishments is not just a job; it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in the art of hospitality amid iconic landmarks and a lifestyle of refinement. Whether developing your skills as a hotel general manager or specializing in a specific department that suits your strengths, building a hospitality career in Paris is something many professionals dream of. You can get started on this sought-after path by studying for the right degree.

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