
Like any other large hub, Paris is a nightmare to navigate.
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While the city has a solid public transportation network that includes the metro, buses, trams, and commuter trains, the sheer size and complexity of the city is a lot to take on. Like London, many of its neighborhoods are small, winding, and built before the advent of cars.
Think: maze-like streets that suddenly open up into avenues and plazas.
If you’re going to stay in Paris, I highly recommend staying around the city center. That way, you can walk to as many landmarks and must-sees as possible, then lean on public transportation, taxis, or rideshares to get to the rest.
After all, you don’t want to waste precious time in a city like Paris, losing an hour or two each day on transportation. You need a hotel near the city center. And, given Paris’s more confined central neighborhoods, you’re better off booking a boutique hotel—larger brands and properties simply don’t fit in the city center. (You can also book a private rental, but the city is cracking down on them.)
Looking for the perfect landing pad for your escape in the City of Love? Book one of these boutique hotels in Paris near or in the city center. You have way more options than you think.
To clarify: I’m including boutique hotels in 1-6 arrondissements. Normally, only 1-4 are considered the city center, but I’m expanding the map to include the 5-th7th arrondissements of the Latin Quarter and Saint German because they’re chef’s kiss.
13 boutique hotels in Paris in the city center
Maison Armance – Esprit de France (1st arr.)

Around 150 feet from the Tuileries Gardens and once the residence of a famous French writer, Maison Armance is hard to beat. The grounds are decorated in a minimalist yet cozy style, while recent guests have praised the breakfast and afternoon drink service. Plus, there are fewer than 30 rooms, giving you a truly boutique and intimate feel.
Hôtel Louvre Montana (1st arr.)

Walk in any direction from Hotel Louvre Montana, and you’ll find winding side streets, classic bistros and cafes, and famous landmarks—including the Louvre. Some rooms also come with views overlooking the Tuileries Gardens. As an added perk, this hotel serves Americans often, meaning staff are experienced in helping out travelers like you.
Hotel Thérèse (1st arr.)

One of the most affordable boutique hotels in Paris, Hotel Thérèse lets you stay in the city center—without the price tag that comes with five-star amenities. Breakfast is served daily downstairs or in your room. The hotel can also arrange airport transportation for an added cost.
Drawing Hotel (1st arr.)

Don’t want to spend an arm and a leg staying in the first arrondissement? Book a room at Drawing Hotel. The hotel feels effortlessly upscale and chic—without those hefty prices. Buffet breakfasts are served every morning, and then you can sip on your café in the scenic patio. The bonus surprise is that, as the name suggests, this hotel also has an art center on the grounds.
Hôtel Le Pradey (1st arr.)

There’s a room that’s made for you at Hotel Le Pradey. Some have separate seating areas, while others have private balconies with city views. The latter is great for any small families that want a suite with two beds—which is a pretty hard find in the first arrondissement. Like Hotel Louvre Montana, staff are also familiar with American travelers, giving you an added sense of comfort.
Chateau Voltaire (1st arr.)

Looking for a five-star stay? Chateau Voltaire is worth the shiny price tag. The property has a chic spa and sauna, along with an indoor swimming pool. There is also a coffee shop and a quaint terrace. Best of all, you have an expert concierge at your disposal to help you put together an unforgettable itinerary.
Hotel Opéra Richepanse (1st arr.)

Located near the luxury shopping street of Rue Saint-Honoré, this hotel puts you right in the retail action. Aside from its solid location, the hotel offers large rooms (especially for the first arrondissement) with custom lighting control features. Another can’t-miss feature is the 17th-century dining room where breakfasts are served every morning.
Hôtel Square Louvois (2nd arr.)

Though we’ve moved from the first arrondissement to the second, you’re still only a ten to twenty-minute walk from major landmarks. At Hôtel Square Louvois, you also have the option to book family-friendly rooms with added sleeping space. This hotel also has a stylish indoor pool and hot tub for guests, which makes it particularly great for winter trips.
Le Rayz (2nd arr.)

Known for its grand interior garden and apartment-style suites, Le Rayz is a perfect boutique hotel in Paris for longer stays and/or larger groups that want a place to hang together. Thanks to its interior-facing rooms, it’s also known for offering a quiet respite that many tourists crave.
Experimental Marais (3rd arr.)

This five-star stay has everything you could possibly need from a boutique hotel in Paris. There’s a restaurant, bar, spa, and cozy lounge. But the real coup is the large rooms that offer a respite from the sound and rush of the city. Guests have lauded the hotel’s quality of sleep, along with their moody design. (This property was formerly known as Sinner Paris.)
Hotel Le Presbytere (4th arr.)

Located inside the body of a Gothic church, this hotel has design features that will make you look twice. Think: the tail end of a flying buttress cutting through your room. The property’s age shines, though it has been updated with modern features. Recent guests have also given rave reviews to the staff and their transportation crew, making trips to and from the airport seamless.
Hotel Verneuil Saint Germain (7th arr.)

Casual, comfortable, and located right in the heart of Saint Germain, it’s hard to beat Hotel Verneuil. The hotel offers small double rooms up to deluxe rooms. The communal spaces throughout are wonderfully appointed, giving you a warm place to gather at the start or end of a long day. You can also book bundles of rooms, in case you’re traveling in a larger group.
Hotel de Lille (7th arr.)

Colorful yet calming, Hotel de Lille gives you a stylish place to rest your head. Plus, some parts of the hotel were built from eco-friendly materials, which is pretty unique. The breakfast buffet is basic but delicious, and the staff are noted for their warm, friendly demeanor.

