As Audrey Hepburn so memorably remarked, “Paris is always a good idea.” So naturally then, the question isn’t “should I go?” – but “where should I stay?”
Paris is one of Europe’s most sprawling cities. With 20 arrondissements, numerous beloved districts and too many beloved patisseries and macaron meccas to count (although, who’s to stop anyone from trying?), the city can be difficult for even the most-traveled to begin to navigate.
Enjoy macarons by the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. Photo credit: Lauren Goldenberg
Most first-timers will wish to stay where they can be closest to the most iconic sights and snag the most Insta-worthy pics. (Although quick traveler’s tip: You’re in Paris so literally everything is Insta-worthy.) Each neighborhood has its own unique charms and quirks and you’ll want to explore them all.
The Notre Dame isn’t the only church to visit in Paris. Be wowed by the Madeleine as well. Photo credit: Lauren Goldenberg
If you want to truly immerse yourself in the essence of the City of Love, find a charming, lively neighborhood to explore and a romantic, cozy hotel to call home.
Lobby of Hotel Chavanel. Photo credit: Hotel Chavanel
The Hotel Chavanel, a four-star boutique hotel centrally located in the Madeleine District, is a dream and the perfect home-away-from-home. There’s even a delicious breakfast buffet where you can chose from a wide array of mouth-watering croissants and pastries, fresh fruit, dried fruit, smoked salmon, eggs, cheeses, juices, yogurts, coffees, hot chocolate and more. There are also a smattering of other special offerings for you to begin your Parisian rendezvous.
Brekkie goals at Hotel Chavanel. Photo credit: Lauren Goldenberg
The rooms are cozy with luxurious details (you’ll love the gorgeous, elegant headboard) and super comfy beds with duvets and throws in wool and cashmere. There is no better city to be spoiled in than Paris and the hotel seeks to pull out all the glam details to make the stay memorable and have you dreaming of returning as soon as possible.
Deluxe Room at the Hotel Chavanel. Photo credit: Hotel Chavanel
Downstairs, there’s a welcoming lounge and a private sitting area with plenty of chic Insta-ready details you’ll want to bring home (yes, that’s a birdcage you can sit in). There’s also a little shop with cute and cheeky Parisian gifts to bring back home.
Hotel Chavanel. Photo credit: Hotel Chavanel
The Madeleine District, known for being one of the wealthiest neighborhoods, takes its name from the Madeleine Church and is right in the heart of the city. Must-sees like the Place Vendome, Place de la Concorde (home of the Luxor Obelisk, iconic fountains and site of guillotines during the French Revolution), Palais Garnier (the Paris Opera house immortalized in Phantom of the Opera), and Palais Royal are just a short, breezy walk away. So too some of the best shopping and luxury boutiques in all of Paris and such foodie havens as Angelina and Maxim’s. And the Louvre, Tuileries Garden, Musee d’Orsay and the Champs Elysees are walkable as well, or just an easy metro stop or two away.
The Louvre. Photo credit: Lauren Goldenberg
The District itself is in between the 8th and 1st arrondissements. And while you’re at the center of the action and so much of Parisian history, by being just a few blocks away in the Madeleine District you get to feel less like a tourist and more like a local. C’est Magnifique.
