7 Historic Hotels in Paris With Famous Past Guests
Looking for a slice of Parisian history with your hotel stay? Seven iconic hotels have hosted some incredible names! The Ritz was Coco Chanel's home for 34 years, while The Peninsula welcomed George Gershwin. Le Meurice housed Salvador Dalí, Plaza Athénée hosted Marlene Dietrich, and Hotel Lutetia sheltered James Joyce. The Bristol charmed Charlie Chaplin, and Hotel De Crillon even gave music lessons to Marie Antoinette. Each property holds fascinating stories just waiting to be discovered.
Hotel Ritz: Coco Chanel's Home and Hemingway's Liberation
The Hotel Ritz Paris stands as a symbol of luxury, history, and cultural significance in the heart of Place Vendôme. Since its opening in 1898, this legendary establishment has served as both a witness to and participant in some of Paris's most remarkable moments, from housing fashion icon Coco Chanel for over three decades to playing a role in Ernest Hemingway's dramatic "liberation" of the hotel during World War II.
This prestigious hotel represents more than just opulent accommodations; it embodies the essence of Parisian elegance and has been the backdrop for countless historical events and celebrity encounters. Visitors today can experience the same refined atmosphere that attracted literary giants, royalty, and fashion luminaries, while exploring spaces that have maintained their Belle Époque splendor.
Quick Facts:
- Room rates: €1,200-€28,000 per night
- Best time to visit: October-November for fewer tourists
- Photography policy: Allowed in public areas only
- Dining reservation required: 2-4 weeks in advance
- Dress code: Smart elegant attire required
- Historical tours: Available by appointment
- Bar Hemingway hours: 6 PM – 2 AM
- Location: 15 Place Vendôme, 1st arrondissement
Suite Coco Chanel
The legendary Suite Coco Chanel, where the fashion designer lived for 34 years, remains one of the hotel's most requested accommodations. Decorated in Chanel's signature black and white color scheme, the suite features original furniture and artwork chosen by Mademoiselle herself. Rates start at €25,000 per night. Insider tip: Request a private viewing of the suite when it's unoccupied by contacting the concierge well in advance.
Bar Hemingway
Named after its famous patron, this intimate wood-paneled bar serves some of Paris's finest cocktails. Ernest Hemingway famously "liberated" this bar from Nazi occupation in 1944. Cocktails range from €30-€50. Insider tip: Arrive right at opening (6 PM) to secure a seat and chat with head bartender Colin Field, who can share fascinating historical anecdotes.
L'École Ritz Escoffier
The hotel's prestigious cooking school offers classes in French cuisine and pastry-making. Classes range from €180 for a half-day to €1,500 for intensive courses. Booking required at least one month in advance. Insider tip: The morning market tours with chefs provide unique insights into Parisian food culture.
Pro Tips:
The best time to experience the Ritz's grandeur is during afternoon tea in the Salon Proust, when sunlight streams through the windows, illuminating the ornate décor. For photographers, the golden hour just before sunset creates magical lighting in the garden. Consider booking during shoulder season (March-April or September-October) for better rates and fewer crowds.
Practical Advice:
While the Hotel Ritz maintains strict dress codes and etiquette standards, non-guests can still experience its magic through the bars, restaurants, or cooking school. Make reservations well in advance, especially for Bar Hemingway and dining venues. The concierge service can arrange special experiences, including historical tours and behind-the-scenes access, even for non-guests – don't hesitate to inquire about these unique opportunities.
The Peninsula Paris: George Gershwin's Musical Haven
In the heart of the 16th arrondissement, The Peninsula Paris stands as a symbol of both architectural grandeur and musical history. This magnificent hotel, originally opened in 1908 as the Hotel Majestic, gained particular significance in 1928 when American composer George Gershwin took residence here while writing his masterpiece "An American in Paris." The hotel's corridors and suites still echo with the legacy of one of the 20th century's most influential composers.
During his stay, Gershwin found inspiration in the hotel's elegant surroundings and the vibrant Parisian atmosphere that permeated through its windows. The composer's connection to The Peninsula Paris represents a unique intersection of American jazz, classical music, and French culture, making it an essential destination for music enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Quick Facts:
- Best visiting hours: 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM (lobby and public areas)
- Room rates: €1,000 – €25,000 per night
- Historical tours: Available by appointment
- Musical events: Regular jazz performances in Le Bar Kléber
- Photography: Allowed in public areas only
- Dress code: Smart casual in public areas, formal for dining venues
The Gershwin Suite
Located on the hotel's sixth floor, the Gershwin Suite pays homage to the composer with Art Deco furnishings and a baby grand piano. While not the original room where Gershwin stayed (that space was reconfigured during renovation), this suite captures the essence of the 1920s era. Rates start at €15,000 per night, and guests receive exclusive access to original sheet music facsimiles and recordings.
Le Bar Kléber
This historic bar, where Gershwin often entertained fellow musicians and Parisian society, hosts weekly jazz performances. The bar maintains its original wood paneling and crystal chandeliers from 1908. Insider tip: Request Table 28, Gershwin's preferred corner spot, which offers the best acoustics for enjoying live music.
The Music Room
A lesser-known space within the hotel, The Music Room houses a collection of period instruments and memorabilia related to Gershwin's stay. Available for private viewing by appointment only, this room contains the original guest registry bearing Gershwin's signature.
Pro Tips:
The best time to experience The Peninsula Paris's musical heritage is during the annual Gershwin Week in September, when the hotel hosts special performances and historical tours. Book at least three months in advance for this period, as rooms sell out quickly. For the most authentic experience, request a room facing Avenue Kléber, where the street sounds that inspired Gershwin's composition can still be heard.
Practical Advice:
While the hotel primarily serves guests, visitors can access certain public areas by making reservations at one of the restaurants or bars. For photography enthusiasts, the best lighting in public areas occurs between 3:00 PM and 5:00 PM when the sun illuminates the Art Nouveau details through the original stained glass windows. Guided historical tours must be booked at least two weeks in advance and are subject to availability.
Le Meurice: Salvador Dalí's Surreal Residence
The illustrious Le Meurice hotel, standing proudly on Rue de Rivoli since 1835, holds a fascinating chapter in art history as Salvador Dalí's Parisian home for over three decades. The surrealist master would spend at least one month each year in this palatial establishment, transforming suite 106-108 into his personal canvas of creativity and eccentricity.
This historic hotel's connection with Dalí represents more than just a famous guest's preference – it became a living embodiment of the intersection between luxury hospitality and avant-garde artistry. The artist's presence left an indelible mark on Le Meurice, influencing its design philosophy and cementing its reputation as a sanctuary for creative minds in Paris.
Quick Facts:
- Best visiting hours: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM (lobby and public areas)
- Price range: €1,200-€20,000 per night
- Photography policy: Permitted in public areas, restricted in private spaces
- Dining reservation required: Yes, especially for Restaurant le Dalí
- Dress code: Smart elegant
- Historical tours: Available by appointment
- Distance from Metro: 2-minute walk from Tuileries station
The Dalí Suite (106-108)
The legendary suite where Dalí resided remains one of the hotel's most requested accommodations. Featuring original period furniture and artwork inspired by the artist's stay, the suite overlooks the Tuileries Garden. While the basic layout remains unchanged since Dalí's time, the space has been modernized while maintaining its classical French elegance. Insider tip: Request the suite's guest book to view signatures and notes from previous notable occupants.
Restaurant le Dalí
Designed by Philippe Starck, this dining venue pays homage to the surrealist master with a monumental ceiling canvas and subtle artistic touches throughout. The restaurant serves contemporary French cuisine with Spanish influences, reflecting Dalí's heritage. Open daily for lunch and dinner, reservations are essential at least two weeks in advance. Unique feature: The restaurant occasionally recreates dishes from Dalí's notorious dinner parties.
Dalí's Legacy Tour
The hotel offers exclusive guided tours highlighting Dalí's favorite spots and infamous antics, including where he once demanded a herd of horses be brought to his room and where he used to drop coins to watch pigeons gather. The tour must be booked through the concierge and includes access to normally restricted areas. Special touch: Each tour concludes with a surrealist-inspired cocktail at Bar 228.
Pro Tips:
The best time to experience Dalí's legacy at Le Meurice is during the quieter afternoon hours, between 2:00 and 4:00 PM, when the lunch crowd has dispersed and before the evening rush begins. Photography enthusiasts should visit during golden hour, when the light streaming through the historic windows creates dramatic shadows reminiscent of Dalí's paintings. For the most authentic experience, book during the annual Dalí Week in January, when the hotel celebrates the artist's birthday with special events and exhibitions.
Practical Advice:
While Le Meurice welcomes visitors interested in its artistic heritage, remember it's primarily an operating luxury hotel. Non-guests should make arrangements through the concierge for tours or restaurant reservations. Dress appropriately, as the hotel maintains strict elegance standards. Consider visiting during shoulder season (March-April or October-November) for better rates and fewer tourists while still enjoying prime Paris weather.
Hotel Plaza Athénée: Marlene Dietrich's Parisian Retreat
The Hotel Plaza Athénée stands as one of Paris's most iconic luxury establishments, immortalized through its century-long association with fashion, film, and high society. Located on the prestigious Avenue Montaigne, this historic hotel gained particular fame as the Parisian home of Hollywood legend Marlene Dietrich, who lived there intermittently throughout the 1930s and maintained a suite there until her death in 1992.
The legendary actress's presence transformed Suite 364 into a piece of living history, where she entertained fellow celebrities and conducted numerous interviews that shaped her mystique. Today, the hotel preserves her legacy while offering guests a glimpse into the golden age of cinema and Parisian haute culture, all while maintaining its position as one of the city's most luxurious accommodations.
Quick Facts:
- Room rates: €1,500-€27,000 per night
- Best time to visit: September-October (fashion season)
- Reservations required: 3-6 months in advance for signature suites
- Dress code: Smart elegant throughout the hotel
- Photography policy: Limited in public areas, prohibited in Alain Ducasse restaurant
- Historical significance: Opened in 1913, renovated in 2014
- Celebrity connection: Regular guest list includes royalty and Hollywood elite
The Marlene Dietrich Suite
This Art Deco-inspired suite remains one of the hotel's most requested accommodations, featuring original photographs of the actress and period furniture that echoes her distinctive style. The 1,076-square-foot space includes a master bedroom, living room, and marble bathroom with views of Avenue Montaigne. Dietrich's favorite flowers, red roses, are still placed fresh daily in tribute to her preference. Insider tip: Request the suite's original guest book to view signatures from visiting luminaries of the past century.
Public Spaces
The hotel's La Galerie serves as a living museum of Dietrich's era, with its original Art Deco details and period photographs. The space transforms throughout the day, from morning coffee service to evening cocktails, maintaining the sophisticated atmosphere that attracted the golden age of Hollywood. Insider tip: The bar still serves Dietrich's favorite cocktail, a specific mixture of half champagne, half orange juice, though it's not on the regular menu.
La Cour Jardin
The hotel's interior courtyard, where Dietrich often took her breakfast, remains a hidden gem within Paris. The space features signature red awnings and seasonal decorations, including famous red geraniums in summer and an ice skating rink in winter. Insider tip: Request Table 12, Dietrich's preferred spot, which offers the best view of both the courtyard and passing fashion crowd.
Pro Tips:
For the most authentic experience, visit during Paris Fashion Week when the hotel recaptures the glamour of Dietrich's era. The best photographs of the famous façade can be captured early morning before the Avenue Montaigne becomes busy with shoppers. Book the Dietrich Suite at least six months in advance, as it's often reserved for special occasions and VIP guests.
Practical Advice:
While the hotel welcomes non-guests to its restaurants and bar, reservations are essential. Dress codes are strictly enforced throughout the property, with cocktail attire required for evening dining. Photography is restricted in certain areas to protect guest privacy, so check with staff before taking pictures. The concierge can arrange private tours focusing on Dietrich's Paris, including her favorite restaurants and performance venues, with advance notice.
Hotel Lutetia: James Joyce's Literary Sanctuary
The Hotel Lutetia stands as a tribute to Paris's golden age of literature and art, where Irish literary giant James Joyce found solace and inspiration while writing portions of his masterpiece "Ulysses." This Left Bank landmark, opened in 1910, became a haven for artists and intellectuals throughout the 20th century, with Joyce making it his preferred Parisian residence during the 1930s.
Beyond its connection to Joyce, the Lutetia holds the distinction of being the only luxury hotel on Paris's Left Bank, combining Art Nouveau and Art Deco architectural styles in a stunning display of Belle Époque grandeur. The hotel's recent renovation has preserved its historical significance while introducing modern amenities, allowing visitors to experience both the nostalgia of Joyce's era and contemporary luxury.
Quick Facts:
- Best visiting hours: Lobby and bar open to non-guests 10:00-23:00
- Room rates: €850-€5,000 per night
- Joyce's preferred room: Suite 501
- Photography policy: Permitted in public areas
- Literary tours: Available by appointment
- Dress code: Smart casual required in public areas
- Historical significance: Protected heritage site since 1965
The James Joyce Suite
Located on the fifth floor, Suite 501 has been meticulously preserved to reflect the ambiance of Joyce's time. The suite features original Art Deco elements, period-appropriate furnishings, and a writing desk positioned exactly where the author preferred to work. Visitors can arrange for guided tours through the hotel's concierge, though availability is limited to non-peak hours.
The Bar Josephine
Named after Josephine Baker, another famous resident, this historic bar was one of Joyce's favorite spots for evening drinks and literary discussions. The bar maintains its original 1910 ceiling frescoes and offers a special "Literary Cocktail Menu" featuring drinks inspired by famous guests, including the "Bloomsday Blend," created in honor of Joyce.
The Literary Legacy Room
A dedicated space in the hotel showcases photographs, letters, and memorabilia from Joyce's time at the Lutetia. This mini-museum, often overlooked by casual visitors, provides fascinating insights into the author's daily life and creative process while residing at the hotel.
Pro Tips:
The best time to experience Joyce's Paris at the Lutetia is during early morning hours, when the natural light streams through the original stained-glass windows, creating the same atmosphere that inspired the author. Book a literary tour at least three weeks in advance, and request the specialized "Joyce's Paris" walking map from the concierge, which outlines the author's favorite nearby cafes and writing spots.
Practical Advice:
While the hotel welcomes literary enthusiasts, certain areas are reserved for guests only. Contact the concierge ahead of time to arrange a guided historical tour, which includes access to otherwise restricted areas. The best time to visit is during shoulder season (March-April or September-October) when the hotel is less crowded and more atmospheric. Consider booking the "Literary Afternoon Tea" experience, which must be reserved at least 48 hours in advance and includes access to the James Joyce memorabilia collection.
The Bristol Paris: Charlie Chaplin's Glamorous Escape
When Charlie Chaplin sought refuge from Hollywood's demanding spotlight in the 1930s, he found solace in the opulent corridors of Le Bristol Paris. This historic palace hotel, established in 1925, became not just a temporary residence for the legendary actor but a symbol of Parisian luxury that continues to captivate visitors nearly a century later.
The connection between Chaplin and Le Bristol represents a golden age of cinema meeting timeless French elegance. During his numerous stays, Chaplin would often be seen entertaining fellow artists and intellectuals in the hotel's magnificent gardens or crafting his next masterpiece in the privacy of his preferred suite, now named in his honor.
Quick Facts:
- Location: 112 rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, 8th arrondissement
- Room rates: €1,200-€24,000 per night
- Best visiting season: September-November
- Dining reservations: Required 2-3 months in advance
- Star rating: Palace distinction (above 5-star)
- Photography policy: Limited in public areas, permitted in private rooms
- Dress code: Smart elegant in public areas and restaurants
The Chaplin Suite combines classic Parisian elegance with modern luxury, featuring original artwork and memorabilia from the actor's stays. The 1,200-square-foot suite overlooks the hotel's French garden and offers a separate living room, marble bathroom, and private dining area. The suite's décor includes subtle nods to Chaplin's films, including vintage photographs and Art Deco elements that hearken back to his era.
Le Bristol's famous rooftop pool, installed long after Chaplin's time but maintaining the hotel's commitment to luxury, offers panoramic views of Paris, including Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur. The sixth-floor pool features teak decking and nautical-themed interiors designed to evoke a sailing ship, complete with floor-to-ceiling windows that open to catch the summer breeze.
The hotel's Michelin-starred restaurant, Epicure, occupies the space where Chaplin often dined with contemporaries like Pablo Picasso and Salvador Dalí. Today, Chef Eric Frechon continues the tradition of culinary excellence with three Michelin stars, serving sophisticated French cuisine in an elegant setting overlooking the garden.
Pro Tips:
The best time to experience Chaplin's favorite spots in the hotel is during the early morning hours, when the garden is bathed in soft light and the breakfast service at Epicure offers a more relaxed atmosphere. Request a garden-view room on the third or fourth floor for the ideal balance of views and privacy. For photography enthusiasts, the golden hour just before sunset provides the most flattering light for capturing the hotel's historic façade.
Practical Advice:
While Le Bristol welcomes day visitors for dining and spa services, access to certain areas is restricted to hotel guests. Make restaurant reservations well in advance, particularly for weekend dining. The concierge service can arrange private tours of the historic areas, including Chaplin's favorite spots, but these must be booked at least 48 hours in advance. Consider visiting during fashion week or film festivals when the hotel's connection to entertainment history is particularly celebrated with special events and exhibitions.
Hotel De Crillon: Marie Antoinette's Music Room to Modern Luxury
The Hotel de Crillon stands as a representation of Parisian luxury, where 18th-century royal heritage meets contemporary elegance. Originally built in 1758 under Louis XV's commission, this magnificent structure on Place de la Concorde has witnessed centuries of French history, including serving as the setting where Marie Antoinette took her music lessons in what is now the hotel's most celebrated salon.
Today, the Hotel de Crillon represents the pinnacle of Parisian hospitality, following a four-year, multimillion-dollar renovation completed in 2017. The careful preservation of historical elements alongside modern luxuries creates an unprecedented guest experience, where visitors can literally walk in the footsteps of royalty while enjoying state-of-the-art amenities.
Quick Facts:
- Average room rates: €1,200 – €25,000 per night
- Best time to visit: September-October or March-April
- Reservation lead time: 3-6 months recommended
- Dress code: Smart casual in public areas, formal in restaurants
- Photography: Permitted in public areas only
- Historical tours: Available by appointment
- Languages: Multilingual staff (French, English, Arabic, Mandarin)
Marie Antoinette's Music Room (Salon Marie-Antoinette):
This historic salon, where the young queen took her music lessons, remains the hotel's crown jewel. The room features original 18th-century mirrors, gilt wood paneling, and crystal chandeliers. Currently used for private events and afternoon tea, reservations must be made at least one month in advance. Insider tip: Request a private historical tour during off-peak hours (2-4 PM) for the most intimate experience.
Karl Lagerfeld Suites:
Two signature suites designed by the late fashion icon offer unprecedented views of Place de la Concorde. These unique accommodations feature custom-made furniture, photographs taken by Lagerfeld himself, and bathrooms carved from single blocks of Carrara marble. Insider tip: Suite 403 has a concealed door leading to a private terrace rarely mentioned in guides.
Pro Tips:
The best time to experience the Hotel de Crillon's grandeur is during the golden hour, just before sunset, when the light streaming through the historic windows creates an ethereal atmosphere. For the most exclusive experience, book the Les Ambassadeurs bar for early evening cocktails (6-7 PM) when the space is quieter and the bartenders can provide personalized attention and share stories about the hotel's famous guests.
Practical Planning:
Reserve well in advance, particularly for special experiences like afternoon tea in the Marie Antoinette salon or dinner at L'Écrin restaurant. The hotel's concierge service can arrange private tours of the historical spaces, but these must be booked at least two weeks ahead. While non-guests can visit the public areas and restaurants, access to certain historical rooms is restricted to hotel guests or by special arrangement only. Photography permissions should be confirmed with staff, as policies vary by area within the hotel.