The oldest hotel in Paris: hidden away at the end of the Passage Jouffroy, it has remained open without interruption since 1846.

In Paris, some places are more than just a bed: they hold the memory of centuries. If you’re looking for a Paris hotel with its charm intact, the covered passages reveal some rare addresses. Here’s a useful overview of the city’s heritage, comfort and affordable prices.

The oldest hotel still in operation?

Hôtel Chopin, a truly historic 37-room Paris hotel, combines Jouy fabrics, Japanese straw and classic furnishings. Mouldings and vintage wallpaper frame views over the rooftops of Paris. A few steps away, the Hôtel du Sentier boasts 4stars. Located in the Passage du Caire, the oldest gallery in Paris, it plays the urban calm card.

In the 19th century, the House of Pleyel was the birthplace of the modern piano, and a showroom brought the neighborhood to life. The shadow of Chopin still hangs over these musical venues. Relais Hôtel du Vieux Paris, a Paris hotel with a unique character, offers singular rooms and the Queen’s Suite. Seventeenth-century parquet flooring and bespoke furnishings justify rates from €595.

Pavillon de la Reine boasts 160 rooms in the Louis XVI style reinterpreted by Philippe Starck. The spirit of the Place des Vosges can be felt from the lobby to the lounges. Le Meurice features rooms designed as “salons”. What’s more, the spa, restaurants, silks and precious furnishings are all part of a very Hôtel de Paris art de vivre.

“In Paris, the hotel business is a living heritage.

Covered passageways, history and experience

Maison Souquet offers simply decorated rooms, a Paris hotel address for insiders, with a private spa and library. Prices start at around €586, depending on the period. Hôtel SaintJacques features a cuvée Saint-Jacques champagne bar and absinthe tasting. In addition, a buffet breakfast and rates starting from €287 make this a safe choice.

Paris-Boutik Hotel sets up its suites in a Marais bookshop and a former grocery store. On the other hand, vintage decor and Haussmann architecture start at €190, with breakfast at €12. Hôtel Habituel relies on Cocomat bedding made from natural latex and coconut fibers. As a result, +++ comfort promises stable nights, even on the street side.

• Check orientation (courtyard or street) and noise level.
• Confirm room surface and bedding.
• Check elevator, air conditioning and any PRM access.
• Compare cancellation and arrival/departure times.
• Find out about nearby transport links and reception times.

Addresses that make sense today

Hôtel Hidden treats guests to Bordier butter and yoghurt, Christine Ferber jams and organic cereals. In this way, breakfast becomes a real landmark for a taste-conscious Paris hotel. Suites Cinabre, with its Suite n°1 and Suite n°2, offers an unusual format. Hästens beds and the signature of French brand Cinabre also set a high standard.

Hôtel Cabane features 43 rooms in a 4-star hotel with Christian Lacroix decor. Rates start at €130, a rare benchmark for this segment. Paris j’Adore Hôtel & Spa offers 28 rooms with spa and restaurant. Some now offer private Jacuzzis and terraces, a rare promise for a Paris hotel.

To choose a Paris hotel near a covered passageway, look at the street and the orientation. A room overlooking the courtyard is often the quietest. In short, check for air-conditioning, elevator and PRM access where vital. Finally, compare cancellation policies before moving dates.

Heritage, comfort and budget: the balance

In a historic Paris hotel, charm goes hand in hand with sometimes singular rooms. However, modern bedding changes everything when it comes to sleep. Ask for the room’s footprint if space is an issue. That way, you avoid surprises on arrival.

Covered passageways offer shelter in case of rain. What’s more, they’re home to cafés, bookshops and useful evening workshops. Secondly, choosing a Paris hotel here means less walking. In short, it’s a time-saver for a short stay.

Practical tips before you book

As far as the calendar is concerned, demand rises during the holidays and trade fairs. So booking early secures smaller categories better. Also, write to the frontdesk for a note on quiet floors. What’s more, the indication “passage side” or “street side” changes the experience in a Paris hotel.

For families, ask for baby beds, connecting rooms or suites. On the other hand, many older addresses don’t have standard triple rooms. Also, a written estimate avoids any misunderstanding about extras. As a result, you stay in control of your budget.

Last but not least, a Paris hotel benefits from good transport links. For example, proximity to the metro and bus makes it easy to get to the airport and train stations. What’s more, 24/7 reception is reassuring in the event of a late arrival. In short, these points of reference help you find the right address.

• Hotel de Paris