VIBE

The well-traveled owners of this Rive Droite boutique have lovingly assembled an eclectic and eccentric array of exotic treasures from around the world (Persian carpets, Syrian ceramics, Chinese wall hangings, and ornate Parisian antiques, among others) to create a charmingly cozy cosmopolitan vibe. By combining uniquely furnished rooms (no two are the same) with elegant (if a bit cramped) Haussmanian architecture, this quiet side street hotel makes a delightfully homey, tranquil escape from the rush of the nearby grands boulevards.

GO HERE WITH

Significant other - for an atmospheric getaway; a girlfriend; yourself

WHY WE LIKE IT

The lavish décor is truly one of a kind–it definitely put us in the mood for Old World adventures. We also like the cozy-yet-refined common areas like the lounge and restaurant. The offbeat design and low-key ambiance make them a great place to chill with a cocktail in the evening, though they’d also work for business if that’s what you require. Also, the service was extremely warm and hospitable (yet professional).

AMENITY WE LOVE

The bath amenities. We dig the mix of classic standbys (full-sized bottles of Molton Brown products) and exotic treats (pure olive oil soaps and bath salts from the Dead Sea). Of course, we’re pretty sweet on the complimentary Ladurée macarons in the lounge, too…

WHAT WE WOULD CHANGE

An onsite spa and gym would be a major plus. But this is Paris, and they do offer a discounted access to the nearby Espace Payot.

GOOD TO KNOW

The Restaurant Daniel serves a hearty set menu of French fare on weekdays and lighter, more cosmopolitan selections on the weekend. (It’s also generally closed for the month of August.) If views are your thing, spring for the Daniel Suite–it offers gorgeous vistas of the Eiffel Tower. Though the location is very central, cabbies often have difficulty finding the hotel as it’s on a side street; ask them to drop you at Rue d’Artois if you’re stuck. Valet parking, twice-daily maid service, and local cell phones are all available. This is a Relais & Chateaux property.

CLOSEST COMPS

Relais Christine (Paris)

Click here for our full-form mobile travel guide, The Purple Passport to Paris