Maharajas, power-broker politicians and Jay-Z and Kanye West (to record ‘Niggas in Paris’ no less) have flocked to the 1815-established Le Meurice Paris for its ostentatious luxury, blockbuster 1st arrondissement location and its mastery of discretion. Beyond the gilded glass door lies a palatial hotel opulently decked out in rich mosaics, ancient mirrors and exquisite tufted fabrics. It’s regal and whimsical à la Louis-XVI, but it’s also a truly modern refuge, one major multi-million renovation later. Make sure you devote an evening to dine at their highly acclaimed restaurant for some delectable food and a refined French atmosphere. Le Maurice is a refuge of the world élite for a reason.

In the contrast to the abundance of luxury hotels in the capital, Hi Matic -a simple, affordable hotel, stripped of all pomp and circumstance-is a breath of fresh air.

Set in a subtly trendy and slightly down at heel area just a short walk from bustling Bastille, this 42-room hotel describes itself as an “urban eco-lodge”. Designed by Matali Crasset, the French design guru and protégée of Philippe Starck, Hi Matic is the Parisian sister to the Hi Hotel in Nice.

Natural materials have been used in the bright and basic decor, with blond wood used throughout for the made to measure furniture, and non-toxic paint in punchy blues, purples and greens on the walls. All superfluous human interaction is done away with and the guest is fully independent with self check-in computers in the lobby, a swanky vending machine selling smart guide books and coffee table type tomes, and a fully organic self-service breakfast. Rooms are cosy with a futon style bed cocooned in a wooden cabin structure in each, and a small ensuite bathroom kitted out with REN bath products. The overall effect is part modern hostel, part basic country cabin, and whilst the prices aren’t dirt cheap, they are certainly reasonable for a hotel of this quality in Paris.

Vibrant and cheerful, Hotel Mayet is a pleasant, no-fuss hotel located in the heart of les Invalides. Within easy walking distance, you will find the Jardin du Luxembourg, Boulevard Saint Germain and Rue du Cherche-Midi where you will be spoilt for choice with the amount of quality foodstores, eateries and of course, the famous Poilâne bakery.

Colorful and cosy interiors create a playful atmosphere with a relaxed blend of artistic features and contemporary furnishings. The communal table in the breakfast room invites friendly conversation between guests whilst enjoying a simple French breakfast in the surrounds of the rainbow colored decor.

Extraordinary quality, elegance and attention to detail—the boutique hotel Villa Madame sets itself apart. With their keen local insight, genuinely friendly welcome and strong neighborhood ties, the close family-like team will ensure you experience the finest Paris has to offer.

The unique characteristic interiors designed by Michel Jouannet creates open, inviting spaces where one can relax and feel at home. Original floral arrangements, a fine selection of artworks and photography adds a tasteful, personal touch to the sophisticated surrounds.

Enjoy a pleasant walk through the Jardin du Luxembourg, or indulge in the countless artisan patisseries, restaurants, fashion boutiques and hand-crafted goods, all within close vicinity.

Just a stones throw away from the glorious Jardin du Luxembourg, this stylish boutique hotel successfully combines the old with the new in a subtle-but-charming way.

Situated in Montparnasse, Hôtel des Académies et des Arts boasts 20 well-sized rooms, each elegantly decorated in four contrasting styles and brought to life with personalized works from painter Jérôme Mesnager and sculptor Sophie de Watrigant. The pieces illuminate the hotel’s quaint-yet-classy reception area and tea-rooms (where you will also find a hand-picked selection of art books).

Once a magnet for artists such as Picasso, Gauguin and Man Ray (whose work was an influence for one of the four room themes), this area still maintains its cultural heritage with The Cartier Foundation for Contemporary Art and the famous Académie de la Grande Chaumière all within a hair’s width of the hotel.

Add to this one of the best breakfasts you’re ever likely to wake up to, a wellness center to ease the stress of hot-footing it through one of the most densely populated cities in Europe and the ultra friendly staff and the only surprise here is that Des Académies only has 3 stars.

Playful yet sophisticated, this urban resort is an intriguing mash-up of quirky design, evocative lighting and technological innovation. No where is this more true than in its 52 rooms and suites, which are opened by fingerprint ID and feature discreetly placed customizable lights controlled from a bedside panel according to guest desire.

Rooms also come equipped with natural argon oil amenities, pillow menus and extra-wide beds. Two of the suites even come with private, outdoor heated swimming pools for the utmost in luxury. Downstairs, the acclaimed MURANO restaurant spreads across a five-meter high main dining room, two cozy lounges and a sun-drenched terrace.

Located in the heart of Saint Germain des Prés, the recently renovated Artus Hotel captures the unique character of modern Paris; paying homage to contemporary style yet remaining rooted to the past.

Authentic, unique artworks catch the eye in each of the loft-like guestrooms at this boutique hotel, and only exquisite natural materials such as stucco, marble and Murano glass were used in the hotel’s construction. Luxurious yet never ostentatious, the Artus Hotel lives and breathes the aesthetic and cultural atmosphere of la rive gauche.