Curator’s statement
The 'Palace' distinction in France, reserved for 'hôtels d’exception', transcends the conventional five-star rating. It is a recognition of excellence that celebrates not just the opulence and comfort these hotels offer but also their profound cultural and historical significance. Each Palace hotel, with its unique narrative and architectural grandeur, serves as a portal to a bygone era of regal splendor, while seamlessly incorporating the epitome of modern luxury.
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Did you know that in France the distinction of a five-star hotel is taken very seriously, so much so that the government created an even higher tier of recognition for the 'crème de la crème' of luxury accommodations: the "Palace" distinction?
Only 31 "hôtels d’exception" maintain this distinction today, of these, 12 are located in Paris, underscoring the city's reputation as a hub of luxury and exceptional hospitality.
This exclusive classification goes beyond the already stringent criteria for a five-star rating, honoring hotels that exemplify an extraordinary level of luxury, unparalleled service, historical significance and unique character.
These Palace hotels stand as icons of French elegance and sophistication, offering guests an experience that transcends standard luxury hospitality and immerses them in a world of opulence and cultural heritage. These hotels are often housed in buildings of architectural and historical importance, offering a blend of lavish amenities, impeccable service, and a deep connection to France's cultural and historical context.
Choosing the perfect Palace hotel in Paris is a journey through different eras and styles, each offering a unique slice of luxury.
Let's explore the distinct characteristics and ambiance of each of these establishments, helping you find the one that resonates with your personal taste and the kind of experience you wish to immerse yourself in during your stay in the City of Lights. Let's embark on this journey to discover your ideal Parisian Palace:
Hotel de Crillon
Perfect for Historical Grandeur
The hotel's neoclassical facade and luxurious interiors reflect its rich history dating back to the 18th century.
Renovation and Design
After a comprehensive four-year renovation, the hotel reopened with interiors that blend historical charm with contemporary luxury. Renowned designers, including Karl Lagerfeld, contributed to its redesign.
Signature Experiences
The hotel offers unique experiences like custom perfumery sessions and a gastronomic journey in its Michelin-starred restaurants.
The Mandarin Oriental Paris
Perfect for Modern Elegance
This hotel offers a perfect blend of Parisian chic and Oriental refinement.
Location
Nestled on the fashionable Rue Saint-Honoré, close to key attractions like the Louvre and Tuileries Garden.
Wellness Focus
The spa at the Mandarin Oriental is a highlight, offering holistic treatments in a serene setting.
La Réserve Hotel & Spa
Perfect for Intimate Luxury
With only 40 rooms, this hotel provides a boutique and personalized experience.
Interior Design
The hotel features rich fabrics, and opulent furnishings, and each room is uniquely decorated.
Exclusive Amenities
Apart from its spa, the hotel has a private library and a wine cellar for exclusive tastings.
Hotel Bristol Paris
Perfect for Elegant Heritage and luxury shopping
The hotel exudes an air of regal elegance with its 18th-century-style decor and antique furnishings.
Culinary Excellence
Beyond Epicure (a three-star Michelin award), the hotel has a rooftop garden supplying fresh produce for its restaurants.
Family-Friendly
It stands out for its child-friendly services, including a kids' club and special amenities for younger guests.
Shangri-La Paris
Perfect for Timeless Elegance and Panoramic Views
The Shangri-La Hotel Paris, originally the residence of Prince Roland Bonaparte, Napoleon's grandnephew, is a testament to timeless French elegance blended with Asian hospitality.
Historical Architecture
The building, constructed in 1896, showcases the grandeur of the 17th and 19th centuries, inspired by the Louis XIV style.
Gastronomic Delight
Home to the Michelin-starred restaurant La Bauhinia, the hotel offers a blend of French and Southeast Asian cuisines, ensuring a unique culinary experience.
The Royal Monceau Hotel
Perfect for your Artistic Flair
The hotel has an art gallery and offers an art concierge service.
Contemporary Rooms
Rooms and suites are designed with a contemporary, artistic touch.
Cultural Hub
Regularly hosts film screenings, art exhibitions, and cultural events.
Four Seasons Hotel George V Paris
Perfect for its Architectural Beauty and central location
Features classical French architecture with art deco elements.
Floral Masterpieces
The hotel is famous for its stunning floral arrangements by Jeff Leatham.
Vincent Rooms
Private dining rooms offer an exclusive gastronomic experience.
Park Hyatt Paris Vendôme
Perfect for Understated Elegance
Known for its refined, contemporary interiors designed by Ed Tuttle.
Central Location
Positioned near Paris's famous Place Vendôme and Opéra Garnier.
Spa and Dining
Offers a luxurious spa and several dining options, including the Michelin-starred Pur' - Jean-François Rouquette.
Le Meurice
Perfect for its Artistic and Historical connections
Frequented by famous artists and celebrities throughout history.
Dali Influence
The hotel's long association with artist Salvador Dali is evident in its whimsical decor.
Iconic Dining
Restaurant le Meurice Alain Ducasse is a highlight, offering fine French cuisine in a majestic setting.
Plaza Athénée Paris
Perfect for its Fashionable Address
Located on the prestigious Avenue Montaigne, surrounded by high-end boutiques.
Iconic Elegance
Known for its iconic red geranium-filled balconies and Art Deco interiors.
Culinary Excellence
Offers several dining options, including the highly acclaimed Jean Imbert au Plaza Athénée.
Peninsula Hotel
Perfect for Cultural Integration
Interiors are a blend of classic French style and Asian influences, reflecting the Peninsula brand's heritage.
Historic Building
The hotel occupies a century-old building that was once a grand hotel and later a conference center.
Rooftop Terrace
The L'Oiseau Blanc restaurant offers panoramic views of Paris, including the Eiffel Tower.
Hôtel Lutetia
Perfect for its Left Bank location as a Cultural Hub
The hotel quickly became a favored meeting place for artists, writers, and intellectuals, contributing significantly to the vibrant cultural scene of the Left Bank.
Unique Style
The hotel's design is a blend of Art Nouveau and Art Deco, featuring elegant, curving lines and geometric patterns typical of these movements.
Renovations
It has undergone various renovations over the years, each careful to preserve the hotel's unique historical and architectural character.
Places to eat & drink in Paris
Dining at these Palace hotels in Paris is an experience in itself, with each establishment boasting exceptional restaurants that offer a range of culinary delights. Here's an overview of notable dining options at each hotel:
Four Seasons Hotel George V Paris
Le Cinq: A Michelin-starred restaurant offering classic French cuisine.
La Galerie: Ideal for a light meal or afternoon tea with elegant surroundings.
Hôtel de Crillon
L’Ecrin: An intimate dining, awarded two Michelin Stars, offering refined and innovative cuisine.
Les Ambassadeurs: A bar and lounge offering a wide range of cocktails and fine wines.
Hôtel Lutetia
Brasserie Lutetia: Known for its seafood and classic Parisian dishes, a favorite in the Left Bank.
Le Saint Germain: A vibrant lounge and bar with a cozy ambiance.
Hotel Plaza Athénée
Jean Imbert au Plaza Athénée: Features contemporary French cuisine, focusing on naturalness.
Le Relais Plaza: A brasserie-style dining option with a sophisticated menu.
La Galerie: Perfect for a casual meal or a luxurious afternoon tea.
La Réserve Paris - Hotel and Spa
Le Gabriel: A Michelin-starred restaurant offering inventive French cuisine.
The Library: A cozy spot for an intimate drink or a light meal.
Le Bristol Paris
Epicure: A three Michelin-starred restaurant known for its exceptional French gastronomy.
114 Faubourg: A luxury brasserie offering an innovative menu in a vibrant setting.
Le Meurice
Restaurant le Meurice Alain Ducasse: A two Michelin-starred restaurant featuring contemporary French cuisine.
Le Dalí: Offers a unique setting for meals throughout the day, influenced by Mediterranean flavors.
Mandarin Oriental Paris
Sur Mesure by Thierry Marx: A Michelin-starred restaurant offering a gourmet dining experience.
Camélia: A more casual setting for all-day dining with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Park Hyatt Paris-Vendôme
Pur' - Jean-François Rouquette: A Michelin-starred restaurant with an open kitchen concept.
Royal Monceau - Raffles Paris
Il Carpaccio: An Italian restaurant offering refined dishes.
Matsuhisa Paris: Combines Japanese cuisine with Peruvian ingredients.
Shangri-La Hotel Paris
Shang Palace: The only Michelin-starred Chinese restaurant in France.
La Bauhinia: Offers a blend of French and Southeast Asian cuisines in an elegant setting.
The Peninsula Paris
L'Oiseau Blan: A rooftop restaurant with panoramic views of Paris.
LiLi: Features Cantonese cuisine in a theatrical setting.
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For more travel inspiration, check out Fora Advisor Ann Tan's guide, Classic Paris for Fashionistas and Foodies. This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Paris.