Smart Stay

Hôtel Dame des Arts

by Emily Zemler
Photo: Courtesy of the property/Ludovic Balay
by Emily Zemler
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Photo: Courtesy of the property/Ludovic Balay
by Emily Zemler
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Photo: Courtesy of the property/Ludovic Balay
by Emily Zemler
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Discerning the best home base for a trip to Paris can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to selecting the right neighborhood. Thankfully, Hôtel Dame des Arts has joined the hotel scene, offering a trendy, friendly option for travelers looking to stay on the Left Bank. Booking a room here makes location a priority without sacrificing style. 

What You Need to Know

The Look of Hôtel Dame des Arts

It's All in the Details

Formerly a Holiday Inn, Hôtel Dame des Arts embraces the artistic spirit of Paris’ Left Bank. The renovated space, designed by Raphael Navot, incorporates organic, natural materials like wood and bamboo, with sleek, curved spaces that feel both intimate and high-end. The small but stylish lobby welcomes guests with inviting sofas and chairs, while the adjacent restaurant opens into a plant-filled courtyard. 

The rooms are bright and airy, with expansive windows that offer exceptional city views. Visitors can opt for a signature terrace room, some of which overlook the Eiffel Tower, and all of the rooms have chic bathrooms with full-sized Diptyque products. 

On the lower level, guests will find a meeting room, a gym, a sauna, and a massage room, which can be booked for solo or dual treatments. The gym is particularly design-led, with wooden cardio equipment, although it’s definitely more fashionable than functional. Upstairs, the rooftop terrace and bar have spectacular views that are usually hard to find so close to the center of Paris. 

The Vibe at Hôtel Dame des Arts

The chic property is trendy but not exclusive, with an artsy, stylish atmosphere that still feels casual and welcoming. The restaurant serves Mexican-inspired cuisine for lunch and dinner and has a relaxed hang-out vibe. Stop by for an oat milk latte (yes, they serve them in Paris) or a glass of wine, or book a table for dinner. The guests reflect an international clientele, as does the staff. Overall, there’s an effortless sense of cool that will particularly appeal to a creative crowd. 

Who Will Love Hôtel Dame des Arts

Couples and small groups of friends are the most likely clientele, especially those who value design and location. Culture-loving travelers looking for more depth to their experience of Paris should splurge here.  

Who Might Not Love Hôtel Dame des Arts

Although the hotel is friendly to all types of guests, this might not be the best pick for families with young kids. The design-led aesthetic and the restaurant’s scene-y vibe don’t suit children, although interconnecting rooms are available for those with tweens and teens.  

Best Amenity at Hôtel Dame des Arts

Hop in the elevator and head for the rooftop bar as soon as you check in — the open-air lounge offers 360-degree views of Paris, with the Eiffel Tower and Sacre Coeur in full view. The bar serves wine, cocktails, and champagne starting in April when the weather gets warmer, and guests can access it with a room key at any time. Plan to be up there on the hour after dark, when the Eiffel Tower glitters with light. 

Money Matters

What’s Included at Hôtel Dame des Arts

The nightly rate includes access to the gym and sauna (which is bookable by the hour), as well as in-room amenities like complimentary bottled water, a Nespresso machine with local coffee, and robes. The buffet breakfast costs extra but can be booked as part of your room rate. The hotel also frequently hosts special events and live music, which can be enjoyed by guests. 

Fees and Extra Costs at Hôtel Dame des Arts

Typical taxes and fees should be expected here. Spa services are also available for an additional cost; ask the hotel to see the brochure of available treatments. 

How to Get a Deal at Hôtel Dame des Arts

Book directly with the hotel to take advantage of their best rates, which fluctuate depending on availability, demand, and the time of year. Check the booking calendar for the current rates and consider coming mid-week, when it can be less expensive. The property also offers discounted rates to AAA members, senior citizens, government personnel, and I Prefer Members. 

Getting There

In the Neighborhood of Hôtel Dame des Arts

Hôtel Dame des Arts has an undeniably great location in Paris. Located on the Left Bank between the Latin Quarter and Saint-Germain-des-Prés, the hotel is literally in the heart of the city. Many museums, shops, restaurants, and cafes are located nearby, including the beloved Café de Flore and Le Bon Marché. The Marais, a popular neighborhood for visitors, is a short walk to the Right Bank. After you’ve enjoyed the hotel’s culinary offerings, grab lunch at Huitrerie Régis, a hidden gem in Saint-Germain-des-Prés. 

Nearest Airport to Hôtel Dame des Arts

Most international travelers will fly to Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport, which is approximately an hour away by taxi or Uber. To save time and money, take the RER B train directly from the airport to Saint-Michel Notre-Dame, located a few blocks from the hotel (about 40 minutes). Those coming by train will arrive at Gare du Nord, a 10-minute Metro journey on the 4 train or a 25-minute taxi ride. 

Nearest Public Transportation to Hôtel Dame des Arts

There are numerous Metro stops near the hotel, including Saint Michel, Odéon, and Cluny La Sorbonne. Many of the city’s major attractions, like Notre Dame, Musée d'Orsay, and the Luxembourg Gardens, are within walking distance. 

The Bottom Line

Whether it’s your first or your fifteenth time in Paris, Hôtel Dame des Arts is a great option thanks to its location, amenities, and rooftop.

It's All in the Details