Curated by Katy

In the heart of Paris’ polished 8th arrondissement, surrounded by embassies, couture boutiques, and the Champs-Élysées, Hôtel Balzac brings understated elegance to one of the city’s most iconic neighborhoods. As part of the Relais & Châteaux family and the Vivre, Les Maisons Bertrand collection—which also includes Château des Fleurs, Hôtel Norman, and Saint James Paris—it’s a hotel designed to balance style with substance.

Festen, the Scandinavian design duo behind the interiors, has created a space that’s equal parts soft and structured, minimalist and warm, blending masculine and feminine elements with effortless precision. The 58 rooms and suites are bright, spacious, and thoughtfully designed, with standout details like reversed wainscoting, marble finishes, and wood paneling that continues up to the ceiling. My corner room came with a wraparound balcony showcasing Eiffel Tower views and a bathroom so perfectly crafted it’s now my personal design inspiration. For an even grander Parisian experience, the top-floor suites feature terraces that could easily double as private apartments.

The hotel’s culinary and wellness offerings are just as exceptional. Pierre Gagnaire’s 3-star Michelin restaurant offers a dining experience that’s worth the trip alone, while the Ikoi Spa, inspired by Japanese traditions, provides a tranquil space for thoughtful relaxation.

Who Will Love It Here: Business travelers, first-time visitors to Paris, honeymooners seeking elegance without excess, and retirees who appreciate refined, timeless comfort without the fuss.

What You’ll Remember: Unwinding with beautiful views, indulging in a Michelin-starred meal just steps away, and finding calm in the beautifully designed spa.

Don’t Miss: A spa session steeped in Japanese tradition, dinner at Pierre Gagnaire’s world-renowned restaurant, and the sense of thoughtful design in every detail.