What it is

A Second Empire grande dame of Paris since 1862, with refined guest rooms, an atrium restaurant and cafe adorned with frescoes, and spa (currently under renovation).

What it isn't

Equipped with its own pool. Who comes to Paris to swim?

What we think

It takes a lot for a hotel to be considered “grand” in a city like Paris, but Intercontinental Paris Le Grand more than lives up to its moniker. Inaugurated in 1862 by Empress Eugenie, the hotel has since hosted megawatt guests like Marlene Dietrich and Josephine Baker. Each and every guest room feels pampering to the VIP in all of us, thanks to custom made furniture with gold gilt details, embroidered velvet pillows and classic color palettes like blue and white. “Cosy Rooms” start at 193 square feet; we heartily recommend the Premium Room with Opera View for its Juliet Balcony that (you guessed it) overlooks the Opéra Garnier, erected for Emperor Napoleon III after the hotel was built, in 1875, and an absolute jaw-dropper with its fanciful Beaux-Arts detailing. The ultimate stay is arguably their Charles Garnier Suite; it has sloped floor to ceiling windows, sleek furniture by Knoll and Pierre Frey, and even Schumacher wallpaper adorned in feathers (a nod to Swan Lake).

You're here because

They have a Club Lounge that’s blissfully quiet (i.e. only children 12 and up can indulge) and includes an abundant breakfast buffet, afternoon tea and evening wine and canapés hour.

The Moment

Ernest Hemingway dined at Café de la Paix, and this afternoon, perhaps at his very table, you’re feeling a bit legendary yourself. It’s the atmosphere—and the Iberian ham croquettes, which, like Hemingway, feel worthy of a Nobel Prize.

Restaurants & Bars

Café de la Paix - A legendary address in the chic Grands Boulevards district.

The Verrière - Savour the serenity of the Verrière over a coffee, light lunch, something sweet from our dessert menu or a relaxing aperitif.

The Bar - Settle comfortably into a Club chair and let the cocktail menu take you on a flight of fancy.

Location

The buzzing Second Arrondissement, just two blocks from Plaza Vendôme and five from the Jardin des Tuileries.