Le Meurice

A grand hotel with a tongue-in-cheek attitude.

Matte. Everything shimmers at Le Meurice, from the silk wallcoverings to the chandeliers.

Founded in 1835, Le Meurice remains one of Paris's most beloved palace hotels, dripping in opulence. But there's a whimsical twist courtesy of designer Philippe Starck, who has added winking touches here and there, like armchairs printed with 18th-century portraits and a tilted mirror in the restaurant Le Dali, itself an homage to the cockeyed Surrealist who once made the hotel his home. But this is no provocative design hotel—the overall affect is one of glinting extravagance, with crystal chandeliers, delicately gold-leafed ceilings and intricate carpets. The 160 rooms and suites are spacious and elegant, many overlooking the Tuileries Gardens and the Musée d'Orsay. The proximity of those key sights makes the hotel a good fit for first-time visitors and, especially, families. The hotel organizes treasure hunts in the gardens and showers kids with charming gifts. You can even book a “family day” at Spa Valmont: manicures and facials for the girls, massages for the boys, and grown-up treatments for the parents.

You're a Paris newbie (or traveling with some) and want to be cosseted in traditional luxury as close to the main sights as possible.

Signing your name on the lobby mirror and forever feeling like a part of Le Meurice’s colorful history.

Le Meurice Alain Ducasse - A pure cuisine which turns simple into good

Le Dali - An irresistible temptation to relax and enjoy various delicacies

Bar 228 - A cozy atmosphere and the warmth of British clubs