Paris, the City of Light, has been stealing hearts for centuries with its world-class museums, delicious cuisine and irresistibly chic boulevards. While iconic spots like the Louvre and Sacré-Cœur are a must-see, the real magic of Paris lies in its 20 arrondissements, each with its own unique personality. Sip coffee at the literary cafés of the 6th, indulge in high-end shopping in the 8th, soak up the bohemian spirit of Montmartre in the 18th or wander through the Marais’ mix of trend and tradition in the 3rd and 4th. And just when you think you’ve seen it all, Paris always has another surprise up its sleeve.
Here are my favorite Paris hotels under $500 a night (though prices may rise during busy seasons). From chic boutique stays to sleek, design-forward retreats, these spots prove you don’t need to break the bank to keep falling for Paris — again and again.
La Fantaisie
On a quiet street in the hip Faubourg Montmartre neighborhood — where independent shops, cafés and bars give off a charming, village-like vibe — La Fantaisie is a leafy retreat from the Parisian bustle. It’s a local favorite for a reason: the courtyard garden (a rare find in central Paris) is perfect for a lazy afternoon drink, while the chic rooftop serves up some of the best views around. Inside, the botanical theme blooms with playful pastel palettes, floral wallpaper and fun extras like silky eye masks and melatonin gummies left on your pillow. Don’t miss Golden Poppy, the hotel’s pescatarian restaurant helmed by triple-Michelin-starred chef Dominique Crenn.
- Fora Reserve perks include €100 food and beverage or spa credit, a bottle of champagne upon arrival, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Hôtel Providence Paris
This cozy 18-room townhouse, dating back to 1854, sits in the city’s trendy Eastern district — perfectly positioned between the dining hotspots of Haut-Marais, the up-and-coming Canal St Martin and artsy Beaubourg. Each room is individually styled with a mix of contemporary and vintage elements — think bold wallpaper, eclectic decor and views over Parisian rooftops. Thoughtful touches, like in-room cocktail kits complete with an ice maker, recipe book and fresh mint, add to the intimate vibe. The café-brasserie, with its street-side terrace, is ideal for enjoying the hotel’s curated cuisine while watching the world go by.
- Fora Reserve perks include a welcome drink, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Hôtel L’Eldorado Paris
This bohemian dream is full of personality — a fun mix of eras and styles where velvet walls, floral fabrics and hand-painted De Gournay murals create an effortlessly chic vibe. Every detail has a story: rattan chairs, four-poster beds and bespoke furniture crafted by local artisans and antique dealers add to the hotel’s unique charm. The service is casual, friendly and feels like home. Inside, the green-hued dining room serves up a love letter to classic French fare, while the romantic courtyard — dotted with potted palms — is perfect for lingering over cocktails.
- Fora Reserve perks include a welcome drink, daily breakfast and an upgrade whenever possible.
Monsieur George Hôtel & Spa
Steps from the Champs-Élysées, this luxe stay brings a whole new level of Parisian glamour to a classic Haussmannian building. Designed by the legendary Anouska Hempel, it’s a sultry mix of rich textures, moody lighting and lavish details that feel more like an intimate private residence than a hotel. Galanga Restaurant & Bar dishes out Michelin-starred, Asi
an-inspired creations in a plush, velvet-clad setting, while the spa — tucked into ancient vaulted cellars — offers a serene escape, courtesy of wellness powerhouse Le Tigre.
- Fora Reserve perks include a complimentary cocktail, daily breakfast and an upgrade whenever possible.
Le Cinq Codet
Housed in a striking 1930s former telephone exchange, Le Cinq Codet brings sleek, residential style to the upscale 7th arrondissement. Natural wood, original artwork and custom furnishings create a polished yet inviting vibe. Some suites come with expansive terraces overlooking Les Invalides and the Eiffel Tower, while the duplexes channel chic Parisian apartments with high ceilings and wraparound windows. The third-floor spa boasts an outdoor whirlpool tub and the marble-clad bar spills into a leafy courtyard — an ideal spot for a cocktail in this prestigious pocket of Paris.
- Fora Perks include a complimentary bottle of wine, a welcome amenity, daily breakfast and an upgrade whenever possible.
Hôtel Dame des Arts
A stylish, design-forward hideaway in the artsy Latin Quarter, Hôtel Dame des Arts delivers serious cool with a rooftop bar boasting unbeatable 360-degree city views. Housed in a 1950s building a short stroll from the Jardin du Luxembourg, the Seine and Notre-Dame, the hotel was reimagined by award-winning designer Raphael Navot with bespoke elements — mixed woods, black metal accents and around 700 pieces of local art. The fitness studio (almost too chic to sweat in) features sculptural wood details and sleek NOHRD equipment. Eco efforts also impress, with local suppliers, organic waste management and a near-zero single-use plastic policy.
- Fora Perks include $100 hotel credit, a welcome amenity, daily breakfast and an upgrade whenever possible.
Email: Italia.dutton@fora.travel
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