Score: 92.74
There are the great philosophical arguments about which people feel passionately (think cats versus dogs, Rome versus Florence), but few incite the same vehemence as naming the finest hotel in Paris. What a wonderful disagreement to have, and all the more excuse to try each of these hotels in order to call this a fair fight.
Every year for our World’s Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Hotels were rated on their facilities, location, service, food, and overall value. Properties were classified as City or Resort based on their locations and amenities.
This year, grandes dames such as Le Meurice share the honors with relative newcomers such as La Réserve — Hôtel & Spa , the Shangri-La Hôtel, and the Peninsula. All offer discreet service, and, in the case of the Shangri-La, which is in the 16th Arrondissement, unbeatable vistas of the city’s most iconic monument from many of the rooms. “The Eiffel Tower views are absolutely stunning,” said one fan. “We are returning to Paris for the third time in three years, and are going back to the Shangri-La because of those rooms.”
The Hôtel Plaza Athénée also received high marks for its accommodations, which are done in a French Regency or Art Deco-inspired style. One reader wrote, “This is what greatness looks like,” while another added of the Avenue Montaigne property, “the epitome of Parisian chic.” Perhaps no fans are as steadfast as those of the Ritz loyalists, who were thrilled to see the Place Vendôme hotel reopen after a near four-year closure and $200 million renovation. “Simply brilliant in all respects,” wrote one reader, while another added, “One of the world’s most iconic hotels, and the renovation maintained the character and history of the hotel while providing beautifully decorated rooms and suites.”
Meanwhile, the fabled Le Bristol nudged its way up from No. 2 last year to No. 1, swapping spots with last year’s favorite, La Réserve. No matter which of these 10 hotels you choose, you’re sure to have an incredible vacation.
1. Le Bristol
Score: 94.82
The only downside about staying at Le Bristol, as its admirers will argue, is that there is no going back to another hotel by choice. This Faubourg Saint-Honoré icon is intimate in scale but grand in service and luxury, from its private courtyard to its rooftop pool overlooking Parisian eaves. Its sumptuous rooms, reached via a wrought-iron elevator, make you feel like unapologetic royalty, as does the extraordinary service. Think of your most audacious request, and the concierge is likely to have granted it within minutes, with graciousness. One reader wrote, “Superb property in every respect. I wish I could move in!”
