Hôtel Bel Ami

A boutique hotel in Saint Germain-des-Prés where simplicity and efficiency meet with tasteful aestheticism.

This boutique hotel originally opened in 2000 and was then overseen by Franco-Chinese hotelier Grace Leo-Andrieu who pushed the 1920’s Beaux Arts Montalembert into the twenty-first century. The guiding principle still is simplicity, efficiency, and consistently tasteful aestheticism. The lobby is light, airy and bare and will give you your first sense of the clear-eyed and unfussy air that prevails throughout this chic, 115-room landing pad. The suites, though urban in feel, have muted, earthy tones and low, futon-like beds.

You might find a well-placed objet d’art here and there: a simple white bud vase, a hammered silver trunk, or an abstract painting on your wall. But, though decidedly stylish, the Bel Ami isn’t the kind of place that is trumpeting style above all else; you are, after all, in one of the most beautiful urban spots in the world, and the Bel Ami is ready to send you out into it. Indeed, it’s been noted that the guests here tend to be more outward-bound than retreat-oriented, thanks in part to the Bel Ami’s prime placement in central Saint Germain-des-Prés. The hotel’s cheery B.A. Restaurant, with light grey walls punctuated by bright red chairs and colorful glass panes, opens out onto the rue St. Benoit. After breakfast and café au lait, you’ll find it easy to glide out onto the sidewalk and explore the city, with whimsy and grace at your feet.

Those who prefer contemporary interior design and a low-key Zen atmosphere in a central Left Bank location.