The DNA: The only grande dame on the more artistic Left Bank of Paris, Lutetia‘s brasseries and bars were always a sort of “living room” through the decades for the whole Saint-Germain-des-Près hood. The Lutetia has always had that paradoxical status of being accessible to all, but with a level of luxury that feels traditionally French.” In other words, it has the necessary edge of the Left Bank, with the polish and sparkle you’d expect of the Right. Returning guests may notice a big change to the layout after the recent renovation: architect Jean-Michel Wilmotte scaled back the original 233 room count to 184, with 47 suites among them. They’re all done in navy blue or mouse-gray, with views onto Parisian streets you actually want to pause and gape at (bakeries, cobblestones, any assortment of Parisian sartorial tastes on passers-by) and all-marble baths with big windows and deep tubs carved from solid blocks. There are new bars and restaurants plus an extensive spa with swimming pool.

Seen: Wallpaper*

Accolades: Condé Nast Traveler Hot List 2019

✅ free Wi-Fi • size matters: 184 rooms (33-40m2) (355-431 sq ft), including 47 suites (50-73m2) (538-786 sq ft) • hotel opened: 1910 • architecture & interior design: Jean-Michel Wilmotte • parking possible nearby (charged) • pets allowed on request • 24-hour front desk • wheelchair accessible