One-of-a-Kind Paris Hotels

As in many places in Europe, some of the most fun places to stay are hotels squeezed into tall and small apartment-like buildings in residential areas. Staying in a place like this, you might discover places and neighborhoods you might never have explored otherwise, and the owners/proprietors can be great sources of knowledge – and occasionally of entertainment, too!

A number of places in this vein in Paris come to mind, such as the Hotel de Varenne. Located on a quiet side street that still is just blocks from the Seine and the Place de la Concorde, this is a great place to stay to be within walking distance from many of the city’s greatest sights without having to splurge. Quaint and friendly, some of their rooms can be small but all of them are clean, and you can easily head down to the charming garden patio for a snack or glass of wine.

For a super eclectic and unique feel, the Hotel le Petit Paris is the perfect place to roost. Each hotel is creatively decorated in an eclectic and modern mix of colors and interesting headboards, wall-coverings, and decor. The rooms can also be on the small side here, but the beds are large and comfortable – and what else matters more? It’s also within a block or two of the Jardin du Luxembourg, a number of good restaurants, and the metro station.

The Hotel le Latour Maubourg is similarly small and cozy but with a much older vibe. Built in the mid-1800s, the atmosphere and decor help the hotel retain a classic and elegant feel. Huge mirrors, beautifully renovated antique furniture, and the stone cellar dining room just add to the ambience. Located on the Boulevard Garibaldi, the hotel is close to several metro stations and a few blocks from the Parc du Champs de Mars.

Further into the heart of the city, located between the Saint-Joseph Hospital and the Montparnasse Cemetery, is the Le Fabe Hotel. It’s also within short walking distance from a metro line, and is quite reasonable for Paris hotels, considering the amenities you get. The rooms are light, with lots of windows and clad with airy floral art and decor, and are decently sized and very clean. This is the hotel to stay in if you’re looking to wander the smaller side streets of Paris during your trip, trying different cafes and bistros and window-shopping for something special.

[photo courtesy of pedrosimoes7]