We can’t think of anyone who hasn’t at least dreamt of spending a Christmas in Paris. Besides the two just kind of make sense. And as you’d expect, the gloves really come off when it comes to bringing the festive cheer to the City of Lights. We tend to think of it as Lapland’s chic cousin because from street-corner patisseries to Galeries Lafayette, the centre of Paris twinkles with golden lights to match those of the iconic Eiffel Tower, and it’s pretty magical.
Visit Tuileries Garden Christmas market, Penguin-dance along a pop-up ice rink, see the Nutcracker on stage, pull up a chair at a traditional brasserie or stroll along the twinkling Seine. The possibilities are infinite, including which hotel to stay in. Gladly leave last that one to us. To help you decide on the perfect room, we’ve rounded up Paris’ cosiest Christmas hotels. Bisous.
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Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in and review every hotel featured, we've based our list on our expert knowledge of the destination covered, editorial reviews, user reviews, hotel amenities and in-depth research to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.
For those of you who love a Haussmann-style building, Château des Fleurs is very elegant indeed. Set in the 8th – a prime spot for all your festive endeavours - the hotel offers bright, elegantly dressed rooms with large windows for incredible views of the city in all of its bustling beauty. Along with being just moments from Arc de Triomphe, theirs much to indulge in on the premises including spa treatments and fine cocktails at the hotel bar.
Just a short stroll from the Louvre and set on the enchanting place des Vosges, Le Pavillon de la Reine & Spa is definitely a great way to ease yourself into the Christmas countdown: this hotel is certainly a gift that keeps on giving with its luxurious offerings including its high style, free spa access, fitness centre with a hot tub and hammam, continental breakfast and just a purs- strap swing to the luxury shops. Tis the season to spend after all…
If maximalism is what you require, this one is very very nice. Just a short stroll from the Picasso Museum, the Seine and the Notre Dame, Hotel De Nice is the epitome of Parisian chic. From antiques to patchwork quilts to velvet upholstery to walls lined with portraits, it’s all very stylish. Though we admit, since we’re nowhere near as stylish, we did think we were in a fever dream.
Set in the heart of Saint-Augustin aka the 8th, with stunning views overlooking the cathedral, Maison Malesherbes is quite the elegant affair. And by elegant we mean it doesn't get any more bourgeoise than this. Comprised of 23 decadent rooms, each with its own antique, bohemian flare, the hotel invites you to indulge like a true flaneur.
Inspired by the roaring twenties and set in Sain Germain de pres, Hotel Cayré is quite the character, and we feel its cosy old-timey interiors are befitting for a little Christmas cheer. It’s classic, and elegant, but never boring among other indulgences you’ll find an onsite gallery – the perfect spot to unwind – a fancy 'refresh room' for those always on the go but need to look chic, an on-site brasserie and a state-of-the-art gym. Tick, tick, tick.
Perhaps you've been dreaming of an elegant, white Christmas? Then this five-star stay tucked between Opera and the Tuileries is handpicked for you. Situated in the first arrondissement, Château Voltaire offers guests the height of sophistication but in a non-stuffy or pretentious way, which is why we like it. Each of the 31 guest rooms is uniquely decorated with handcrafted furnishings, manor-style decor and cubist paintings. The intention? A subtle, delightful and 'poetic' retreat in the heart of Paris. And when it comes to ways to unwind, there are plenty: take the hidden staircase that leads to the indoor pool, enjoy first-class mixology at Bar La Coquille d'Or, or enjoy an intimate dinner at Brasserie l'Emil.
Stay at the newly transformed, Balzac. With its tribute to Champs Elysèe, we couldn't think of anywhere more fitting for a no-expense-barred kind of Christmas. Every inch of this hotel is so full of mystique and old-timey elegance. From shadowy drawing rooms to golden-hued guest rooms offering views of the Eiffel Tower, the Balzac is one not to be passed up on.
Time Out tip: Don't miss an opportunity to head to the secret bar or the Pierre Gagnaire for that matter...
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