What it is

The most iconic hotel in France, perhaps the world, fresh from a $450 million face-lift.

What it isn't

A wholesale reboot. Though it is more tech-forward than before, the new Ritz doubled down on classicism.

What we think

The hotel that has probably swiped the Amex “Black” Centurion Card of every high-power fashion editor, business magnate and legend we can think of (Coco Chanel herself lived here from 1937 to 1971, and yes, you can stay in her room) is a society darling for good reason. And now that she’s got new shine on her shoes, she’s more coveted than ever. Even the most basic suites are fitted for the many royals that stay here, with elaborate bed canopies, winking crystal chandeliers and tasseled window dressings. And the restaurants—including an afternoon teatime in the blonde wood Salon Proust that puts certain British versions to shame, thanks in part to its tea sommelier—can’t be missed. The new bits, like the airier lobby, the garden, the Chanel spa, and the new themed suites, fit right in with the old.

You're here because

Marcel Proust was here, F. Scott Fitzgerald was here, Ernest Hemingway was here, Sophia Loren was here…shall we go on?

The Moment

Post three-hour Le Grand Soin treatment in the Chanel spa, your skin is nearly as glowing as Coco’s famous pearl necklaces—and as tight as the leather on her handbags. You look about ten years younger, and feel twenty.

Restaurants & Bars

L'Espadon - Refined and elegant dishes by Chef Nicolas Sale:

- Les Matins De L'espadon - A cocoon of gourmet breakfast and refined service gently awakens the palate.

- Les Jardins De L'espadon - One Michelin-star culinary adventure offering appetizers, main courses and desserts that intrigue and delight the palate.

- La Table De L'espadon - Two Michelin-star serving the Chef's signature dinner creations

- Les Week-Ends De L'espadon - À la carte, for lazy, leisurely mornings as if you were at home.

Bar Vendôme - Open for breakfast, lunch, teatime, and dinner. A Parisian brasserie.

Ritz Bar - Open for lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch. A historic bar frequented by the likes of Hemingway and F. Scott Fitzgerald.

Bar Hemingway - Iconic bar visited by personalities such as Cole Porter, F. Scott Fitzgerald and Gary Cooper

Location

On the exceedingly well-heeled Place Vendôme—commissioned by Louis XIV—in the city’s First Arrondissement. Van Cleef & Arpels and Cartier live next door.