EXCLUSIVE | Paris: Where to Stay

There are great hotels all over Paris, and, as in most of Europe, desk clerks won't bat an eye when two women or two men show up to share a room or bed. Business travelers will find that the Marais is convenient enough and not an inappropriate address, although most of the big business hotels are on the other side of the river. While you should feel perfectly comfortable in the hotels we recommend, there are a number of hotels in town that specifically market toward the gay community, thus drawing an even greater number of gay guests. We've noted these properties. The Marais (4e) is the gayest neighborhood in Paris, and most of the properties here will have a significant gay following. Our listing of recommended accommodations is organized geographically, by arrondissement.

FIRST ARRONDISSEMENT (1ER)

Best Luxury
Of the top hotels in town, the Ritz (15, place Vend?me, 1er; +33-1-43-16-30-30; from 730 EUR, suites from 970 EUR) is one of the most centrally located and most recommended of the ultra-luxe options.

Best Style
The Castille (33- 37, rue Cambon, 1er; +33-1-44-58-44-58; 390+ EUR, suites 790+ EUR) is another deluxe option, with a Venetian flair that is a whimsical, refreshing change from the more serious, studied d?cor of its high-end neighbors.

A very fancy resting place is four-star Renaissance Paris Vend?me (4 rue du Mont Thabor, 1e; +33-1-40-20-20-00; from 480 EUR). Between Place St Honore and Jardin des Tuileries, this refurbished 97-room 19th-century townhouse owned by the Marriott group basks in elegant muted and understated tones, courtesy of designer Pierre Yves-Rochon. Beige, chocolate and natural woods feature throughout the hotel, and a Chinese-theme bar compliments the modern style. Rooms are tranquil and relaxed. Cane-woven day beds look onto the 11-by-4-meter slate-lined pool, surrounded by dark Ipe wood paneled walls. The sauna features a starlight studded vaulted ceiling. Pets welcome.

Best Value
At the other end of the budget spectrum, the H?tel Henri IV (25, place Dauphine, 1e; +33-1-43-54-44-53; from 35 EUR, no credit cards) boasts a to-die-for location in a charming square. It is well-known among habitual visitors to Paris who like to travel on a budget. A very basic property, most rooms have their own sink but must share a bath. Breakfast is included. Reserve at least one month in advance in the summer, and don't be put off if certain managers are rude. This may be your best deal in the whole city.

SECOND ARRONDISSEMENT ( 2E)

Best Luxury
The sleekly designed Park Hyatt Paris Vend?me (5, rue de la Paix, 2e; +33-1-58-71-12-34, from 700 EUR, suites from 910 EUR) has quickly risen to the top tier of must-stay Parisian lodging options. The understated entrance just off the Place Vend?me is indicated by two joyful, arching sculptures, a decorative motif repeated throughout the hotel. A rich collection of thought-provoking original art graces the stylish and contemporary public areas. Rooms come with mirrors galore, abundant closet space, sinfully comfy beds and linens, capacious bathrooms (with heated floors!) and lots of surfaces to spread out your things. The hotel's Pur'Grill, which has been awarded a Michelin star, provides a fancy and fun place to get a drink, or sample the cuisine of Jean Fran?ois Rouquette, who has worked in other upscale establishments including Le Crillon. In the lobby, aptly named "The Bar" provides the opportunity to rub elbows with other guests and swanky Parisians.

Best Style
Hotel de Noailles (9 rue de Michodiere, 2e; +33-1-47-42-92-90; from 160 EUR, suite from 315 EUR) is a stylish address with funky contemporary Deco d?cor and plenty of postmodern design touches. There are special promotions for reserving your room online. A delightful French buffet breakfast includes fresh fruits, juices, pastries, meats and cr?pes prepared on the spot for 15 EUR per person.

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Related Articles:
Paris: Introduction
Paris: Where to Eat
Paris: Where to Play/Meet
Paris: What to See and Do
Paris: Resources