Where to Stay in Paris for First Time Visitors: 10 Amazing Paris Accommodations

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Are you wondering where to stay in Paris for first time visitors? You’re in luck!

We visited Paris for the first time a few years ago and absolutely fell in love with the city. Though we’ve only stayed at one hotel there ourselves as first-timers, we teamed up with a bunch of awesome travel bloggers to bring you this list.

Here’s where to stay in Paris for first time visitors!

Generator Hostel

Address: 9-11 Place du Colonel Fabien, 75010 Paris, France

Generator Paris is definitely up among the lot for the best budget friendly hostel in Paris title and one of the best places to stay if you’re wondering where to stay in Paris for first time visitors. It is great not just the backpackers but even for couples, those on their romantic escape, or anyone on a budget.

One of the things that makes it so is that it gives you a hotel room experience at the price of a hostel. From a variety of room options like 4, 6, 8, and 10-Bed shared dorm rooms to private rooms with swaying hammocks on the balcony overlooking this magical city. To give you an idea, the cost of a bed in a 4-bed shared dorm is approximately 50 euros.

The hostel also hosts one of the most popular rooftop bars in Paris that draws even those guests not staying at the Generator. Enjoy sipping on your cocktails while enjoying 360-degree views of Paris with the sight of the majestic Sacre Coeur in the distance.  

Yet another reason why we love this hostel is that it is centrally located, just about a few minute’s walk from Gare Du Nord, one of the big terminus stations in Paris, and about a 15-minute metro ride from all the major points of interest like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Notre Dame and more.

Also, while in this art capital of France, you should never have to take a break from creative visuals spread across the city. Generator Paris provides just that through its décor and interiors, complementing the artistic vibe of this charming city. 

Recommended by Harshi & Aman from Trot.World

Hotel de la Bretonnerie

Address: 22 Rue Sainte-Croix de la Bretonnerie, 75004 Paris, France

Hotel de la Bretonnerie is where to stay in Paris for first time visitors in the popular Marais neighborhood. Centrally located in the 4th Arrondissement, Le Marais is packed with great restaurants, bars, bakeries, and boutique shops. Previously the Jewish Quarter of Paris, Marais is still home to many kosher restaurants. 

Hotel de la Bretonnerie features 29 rooms housed in an 18th-century mansion. It is just around the corner from Hotel de Ville, Paris’s magnificent town hall that dates to 1357. It is also a short walk to Notre Dame Cathedral and the Picasso Museum. Other highlights of Paris can be easily accessed by catching the metro at the Hotel de Ville metro stop. 

From the library in the lobby to well-appointed rooms, the hotel offers a cozy ambiance that is a throwback to old-world Paris. It is perfect for couples who appreciate historical stays. A delicious and typically Parisian breakfast buffet is served in their charming wine cellar.

A highlight is an electric juicer that quickly prepares fresh-squeezed orange juice on demand. That pairs delightfully with delicious croissants, meats, cheeses, and Nespresso coffee. 

There are three classes of rooms at the Hotel de la Bretonnerie. Classic rooms start at €90 a night. Charming rooms fitted with elegant four-post beds and lovely art starts at €130 a night. Junior Suites, ideal for families, start at €170 a night. The wifi is complimentary and works well from the rooms. 

Recommended by Alex Kallimanis from Wanderlust Marriage Travel

Hotel Le Littre

Address: 9 Rue Littré, 75006 Paris, France

Hotel Le Littre is a luxury boutique hotel located between Montparnasse & Saint Germain des Prés on a quiet street hidden between bustling shopping streets. Hotel Le Littre shines in 3 areas; having an attentive staff, delicious breakfast, and suites with views of the Eiffel Tower.

Rooms start around € 179, but if you would like one of the rooms with a private terrace and view of the Eiffel Tower, they begin around € 300. It truly makes a difference when you arrive at your hotel in Paris to be greeted by the sight of the Eiffel Tower from your window, making it worth the splurge.

Beyond the luxury accommodations, the hotel has a fantastic staff that was there to help us before and during our trip. When we arrived, they gave us tips on how to get around best and explore the city. The breakfast included in your stay is excellent. Each morning there is a buffet with freshly baked bread and crescents.

Having a fresh croissant with fig jelly and a chocolate-filled croissant is a perfect way to start. That is only the start, with sausage, eggs, fruits, cereals, meats, and cheeses also available. 

Recommended by Dan Bagby from HoneymoonAlways

Hôtel Park Lane

Address: 4 Rue la Boétie, 75008 Paris, France

The Hotel Park Lane is a recently renovated 4-star hotel situated in one of the best Arrondissements of Paris – the 8th Arrondissement. There are multiple public transport options close by as well as popular tourist attractions.

The hotel rooms are surprisingly quiet, especially those opening up onto the central courtyard. They are decorated with modern artwork, and all have coffeemakers, flat-screen TVs, iPod docks, and free Wi-Fi. For an additional fee, you can even organise to have a massage or beauty treatment in the privacy of your own room.

The reception staff are friendly, speak fluent English, and are available to assist their guests 24 hours a day.

The Hotel Park Lane is in the perfect location to explore Paris on foot. It’s a short 15-minute walk to Les Fontaines des Champs-Elysée, and from there, you can keep walking towards the Seine and the Grand Palais, and Petit Palais.

Alternatively, you can enjoy the ultimate tourist experience and stroll down Av. des Champs-Elysée and admire the famous fashion houses and the impressive view of the Arc de Triomphe.

Close by are the Galeries Lafayette and Printemps department stores, several food stores including Monoprix and Marks & Spencer, as well as numerous restaurants and cafes.

Recommended by Susan Gan from Thrifty After 50

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Hotel Plaza Elysees

Address: 177 Boulevard Haussmann, 75008 Paris, France

The Hotel Plaza Elysees is a small, cozy hotel with a lot of personality in the heart of the 8th arrondissement, just a short walk from the Arc de Triomphe.

From the black puma statues in the breakfast room to the golden rococo clock and paintings of the French aristocracy in the foyer, the Hotel Plaza Elysees has some really quirky and unique touches. This is great if you’re wondering where to stay in Paris for first time visitors.

The 41 rooms are small but comfortable, with some offering views of the charming Boulevard Housman and others overlooking a tiny courtyard. Get a room with a boulevard view to sit back and enjoy scenes from the cafe across the street and other glimpses of daily Parisian life. 

There are three different room types to choose from, starting at 143 euros a night, with the largest for up to 3 people. Each room has all the expected amenities, including WiFi, air conditioning, a TV, a kettle with tea and coffee, a small wardrobe, and a desk. 

The breakfasts have a great selection of cheeses, croissants, and good coffee, while the concierge is friendly and quick to offer advice on navigating the city. 

And that’s what I love best about the hotel – with its unique touches and friendly service, it feels like your own little temporary home in Paris. 

Recommended by Dee Nowak from Vanilla Papers

Le Meurice

Address: 228 Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris, France

If you’re looking for popular luxury accommodation in Paris, look no further than Le Meurice, a five-star hotel part of the famed Dorchester Collection. Situated on Rue de Rivoli across from the Tuileries, the iconic hotel is centrally located to many Paris landmarks.

Easily walk to the Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, Île de la Cité, or down the Champs-Élysées. Of course, being in the heart of Paris will provide you with plenty of dining options, as well.

Don’t overlook, however, taking advantage of the hotel views and amenities while visiting. Le Meurice is home to a luxurious spa and elegant, 2-star Michelin restaurant, Restaurant Le Meurice, by world-renowned chef Alain Ducasse. The service at Le Meurice is top-notch, as well, and you’ll be treated like royalty inside its palace-like walls. 

Though rooms typically start at around $800, Le Meurice provides top value when it comes to luxury hotels. If you’re looking to splurge or celebrate a special occasion, like we were during our babymoon in Paris, it doesn’t get much better than Le Meurice.

Recommended by Tori of tori-leigh.com

Nolinski

Address: 16 Avenue de l’Opéra, 75001 Paris, France

Located in the heart of historical Paris, Nolinski offers 5–star French luxury in a regal setting. Designed by Jean-Louis Deniot, the place is bold, elegant, and beautifully maintained. Conveniently found within walking distance to the Pyramides metro station in the 1st arr. it makes for a good place from which to tour the rest of the city.

The Louvre Museum is a mere 10 minute’s walk away, while the Tuileries Garden is just a little further away. Nolinski is perfect if you want to know where to stay in Paris for first time visitors.

What’s special is that the opulent setting is matched with smiles and offers of assistance throughout the stay. I felt this from the moment I entered the gates and continued until my departure.

The stylish bedrooms offer an intimate setting, featuring custom furniture with amenities that include a minibar, air conditioning, and a flat-screen TV. The hotel also has an indoor pool, free wifi, and an on-site restaurant with alluring views of the eiffel tower.

If world-class accommodation, unmatched hospitality, and luxury in the middle of the city are what you’re after, Nolinkski is a great option. 

Recommended by Rai from A Rai of Light

Novotel Paris Gare de Lyon

Address: 2 Rue Hector Malot, 75012 Paris, France

The Novotel Paris Gare de Lyon is a four-star hotel that has been recently renovated in the heart of Paris’ 12th arrondissement. We chose this hotel of its unbeatable location next to transport links, but it pleasantly surprised us with its stylish rooms, kid-friendly layout, and range of amenities.

It’s the perfect place to stay if you’re visiting (or furthering your travel around France) via TGV, as it’s right next to the station. If you’re wondering where to stay in Paris for first time visitors, Novotel Paris Gare de Lyon is a great option.

The metro is right on the doorstep for sightseeing in Paris too. This makes it especially favourable if you’re visiting Paris with kids, as it can be hard to juggle luggage and strollers on narrow Paris pavements!

If you’d rather walk than take public transport, there are several attractions within a few km, including the Jardin des Plantes, the family-friendly Luxembourg Gardens, Le Marais district, and the Paris zoo & Aquarium. Even the Louvre, Tuileries Gardens, and Champs-Elysees are within an hour’s walk away.

Our double room cost around €200/night and was made into a triple with the help of a convertible sofa bed, and it still didn’t feel cramped. The bathroom facilities were large and modern too. There’s a small selection of kids’ games available in the reception area to keep little ones busy during waiting times, and you can even bring your dog if you book ahead!

Recommended by Nadine of Le Long Weekend

Shakespeare & Company

Address: 37 Rue de la Bûcherie, 75005 Paris, France

Sleeping among the books inside the Shakespeare and Company bookstore is certainly not for everyone. But if you’re the adventurous type and don’t require many creature comforts, this experience offers a fascinating glimpse into the bohemian underworld of Paris. It’s also in an amazing location on the banks of the Seine right next to Notre Dame, and it’s completely free.

If you’re wondering where to stay in Paris for first time visitors, don’t overlook Shakespeare & Company!

Shakespeare and Company is a world-famous English language bookstore that was founded by American expat George Whitman in 1951. George was a self-proclaimed “tumbleweed” who had traveled the world as a penniless youth, relying on the generosity of strangers.

When he settled down in Paris, he decided to return the favor. He allowed anyone passing through to sleep in the bookstore for free, as long as they helped out in the store for a couple of hours each day, and wrote a one-page autobiography.

After running the store for decades, George passed away in 2011 at the age of 98. Since then, his daughter has taken over the store and maintains her father’s same free-spirited approach while adding a few modern touches.

The shop now accepts credit cards, and there’s an attached café that serves some of the best vegetarian food Paris has to offer. But one thing that hasn’t changed is that the doors are still open for any passing tumbleweeds, provided they stay for at least one week.

I was lucky enough to stay there while George was still around, back in the year 2000, and it’s a memory I will cherish forever. I was actually planning to relive the experience in April 2020. While that trip had to be cancelled for obvious reasons, I still hope to return to Shakespeare and Company one day and experience the magic of this very special place.

Recommended by Wendy Werneth of The Nomadic Vegan

St. Christopher’s Inn

Address: 159 Rue de Crimée, 75019 Paris, France

St. Christopher’s Inn, in Paris 19, is a great place to stay in the French capital. I suggested this place to my in-laws for their 5 days in Paris and they really liked it.  

St. Christopher’s Inn is a hostel with dorms and private rooms located at the Bassin de la Villette, a very lively area on the right bank of Paris with many trendy bars, restaurants, and a cinema.

The Bassin de la Villette is a bit off the beaten path but well connected to the center of Paris by metro. It is a pleasant area to be in, with a much more local feeling and interesting places to explore nearby. It is especially lively in the summertime, when it hosts part of the event Paris Plages, with water activities, music, and urban beaches.

St. Christopher’s Inn is a big hostel with modern and comfortable rooms that always gets the best ratings. It has an interesting contemporary design, and most of the rooms have views of the canal. On the ground floor, there’s a big international pub very appreciated by guests and locals. 

My in-laws let us go up to see the room, and I really liked it, especially the design of the bathroom. The small balcony – with views of the canal – was perfect for a coffee or a last drink with views.

Recommended by Elisa from World in Paris

Now you know where to stay in Paris for first time visitors! Where would you most like to stay? Leave a comment below.