5-Stars and Counting: The Best Distinction Palace Hotels in Paris

Photo courtesy The Peninsula Paris    

Travel writer and luxury lifestyles expert Bryan Dearsley shares this list of the best Distinction Palace hotels in Paris for 2023

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Paris, the city of love and light, has long been synonymous with luxury and refinement. From its iconic fashion houses to its numerous Michelin-starred restaurants, the French capital exudes an air of sophistication that’s unrivaled anywhere else in the world.

And when it comes to opulent accommodations, few places to stay can match the grandeur and elegance of a luxury Parisian hotel. That said, it can be a little tricky standing out from the crowd in a city that boasts more than 75 elegant 5-star hotels.

The solution? Well, if you’re one of the select Distinction Palace Hotels group, it’s quite simple: upgrade, renovate, and offer a level of service and luxury that exceeds that of most other 5-star hotels in Paris.

Distinction Palace Hotels in Paris

Started in 2010 by Atout France, the country’s official tourism agency, the Distinction Palace designation is reserved for a select group of luxury hotels in France that meet extremely strict criteria for excellence and luxury. Each must not only feature exceptional architecture and décor while providing exemplary service, they also need to offer amenities and experiences above and beyond a typical five-star rating.

While currently only 12 luxury hotels in Paris can lay claim to the Distinction Palace title, including the Four Seasons Hotel George V, the Hotel Plaza Athénée, and the Mandarin Oriental Paris, a number of other popular 5-star accommodation providers are upping their game in order to qualify.

Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a cultural adventure, or simply an indulgent escape, these Distinction Palace hotels in Paris offer an unparalleled level of luxury and refinement that’s sure to exceed your expectations.

The Best Distinction Palace Hotels in Paris 2023

The Peninsula Paris

The Peninsula Paris is a palatial hotel that epitomizes French luxury and elegance. Its most luxurious room is the Peninsula Suite, a lavish duplex that spans over 300 sq m and features a private terrace with panoramic views of the city. The suite is decorated with bespoke furnishings and priceless artworks, and comes equipped with a range of cutting-edge technology, including a personal home theater system and a state-of-the-art sound system.

As a guest of The Peninsula you’ll also enjoy exclusive access to the hotel’s rooftop bar, which offers stunning views of the Eiffel Tower.

Riley Recommends: For the latest reviews, the best rates, and to make reservations, visit The Peninsula Paris

Shangri-La Paris

Housed in a magnificent 19th century mansion that was once the residence of Prince Roland Bonaparte, Shangri-La Paris is a must-visit for fans of luxury travel. Our favorite accommodations are the luxurious Eiffel Tower Suite, a stunning duplex that boasts breathtaking views of the iconic tower. This opulent suite features a spacious living room, a dining area, and a bedroom with a king-size bed, as well as a private terrace with a Jacuzzi.

You’ll also be invited to indulge in a range of exclusive experiences such as a private cooking class with the hotel’s Michelin-starred chef.

Riley Recommends: For the latest reviews, the best rates, and to make reservations, visit Shangri-La Paris

Le Bristol Paris

Part of the prestigious Oetker Collection, Le Bristol Paris is a grand hotel that exudes old-world charm and sophistication. Its most luxurious unit is the Imperial Suite, a sumptuous apartment that spans over 300 sq m and features a private terrace with views of the Eiffel Tower.

Decorated with elegant furnishings and original artworks, this chic suite comes equipped with a range of high-tech amenities including a home cinema and sound system. You’ll also have access to a range of bespoke experiences such as a private tour of the Louvre Museum with a personal art historian.

Riley Recommends: For the latest reviews, the best rates, and to make reservations, visit Le Bristol Paris

Four Seasons Hotel George V

The legendary Four Seasons Hotel George V has been welcoming discerning guests for over a century. Our favorite place to stay here is the uber-luxurious Royal Suite. This opulent apartment spans over 300 sq m and features a private terrace with spectacular views of the city.

This plush suite is decorated throughout with exquisite antiques and luxurious fabrics and features high-tech amenities including a Bang & Olufsen sound system and a home cinema. You’ll also be able to indulge in a variety of bespoke experiences such as private museum and gallery tours.

Riley Recommends: For the latest reviews, the best rates, and to make reservations, visit Four Seasons Hotel George V

Hôtel de Crillon, A Rosewood Hotel

Hôtel de Crillon is a historic hotel that was originally built in the 18th century. Part of the luxury Rosewood Hotelgroup, its most luxurious room is the Marie-Antoinette Suite, a magnificent apartment that spans over 150 sq m and features a private terrace with views of the Place de la Concorde.

The suite is decorated with luxurious fabrics and bespoke furnishings and comes with a variety of high-end amenities including free Wi-Fi and HDTVs. In addition to concierge services and private dining experience, you can also have hotel staff indulge you in bespoke luxury experiences including private guided tours of the famous Palace of Versailles.

Riley Recommends: For the latest reviews, the best rates, and to make reservations, visit Hôtel de Crillon, a Rosewood Hotel

La Reserve Hotel & Spa

La Reserve Hotel & Spa is a chic and intimate address that exudes understated elegance. Its most luxurious room is the Grand Palais Suite, a magnificent apartment that spans over 120 sq m. In addition to its large private terrace with its views of the Eiffel Tower, this opulent suite features custom furnishings and luxe fabrics, as well as Bang & Olufsen sound systems.

If you’re able to pull yourself away from this beautiful palace hotel long enough (it’s tough, it’s that nice!), book one of the custom tours through the hotel’s concierge desk. Our favorite such experience is the private tour of Paris’s hidden gems with a personal guide.

Riley Recommends: For the latest reviews, the best rates, and to make reservations, visit La Reserve Hotel & Spa

Le Meurice

One of the oldest of our luxurious palace hotels in Paris, Le Meurice has been welcoming guests for over two centuries. If it’s available, check into the luxurious Belle Etoile Suite. This magnificent split-level suite spans over 400 sq m and comes with its own private terrace with panoramic views of the city.

In addition to its opulent furnishings and original artworks the suite also features modern amenities such as a mini-fridge, coffeemaker, and free Wi-Fi. A stand out guest experience you should try is the private cooking class with the hotel’s chef.

Riley Recommends: For the latest reviews, the best rates, and to make reservations, visit Le Meurice

Mandarin Oriental Paris

Mandarin Oriental Paris is a luxurious contemporary hotel that combines Asian-inspired design with French art de vivre. Of its many luxurious rooms and suites, our favorite is the Royale Mandarin Suite. This large and spacious apartment-style unit spans over 430 sq m of indoor living space plus an additional spacious private terrace with magnificent views of the city.

As a guest of the Mandarin you’ll find yourself wanting to indulge in a wide range of amenities from fine dining to private chef experiences.

Riley Recommends: For the latest reviews, the best rates, and to make reservations, visit Mandarin Oriental Paris

Le Royal Monceau-Raffles Paris

Another stylish and modern place to stay in the heart of the city, Le Royal Monceau-Raffles Paris showcases the best of Parisian art and design. Stand out accommodations include the luxe Presidential Suite. This spacious unit covers 350 sq m of chic living space and features a private terrace with views of the city.

Looking for the ultimate in unique indulgences? Book a private concert in the hotel’s music studio.

Riley Recommends: For the latest reviews, the best rates, and to make reservations, visit Le Royal Monceau-Raffles Paris

Hotel Plaza Athénée

Located in the heart of Paris’s fashionable Avenue Montaigne district, the iconic Hotel Plaza Athénée offers a variety of first-rate luxury accommodation options. Our favorite is the suitably Royal Suite, a sumptuous apartment spanning over 450 sq m that’s simply fit for a King or Queen. Notable room amenities include a spacious private terrace with incredible views of the Eiffel Tower, along with bespoke furnishings and artworks.

This luxe Paris hotel is perfect for those who enjoy luxury shopping experiences. Not only is it located close to some of the city’s most opulent stores, you can even book a private shopping tour of Paris’s top fashion houses with your own personal stylist.

Riley Recommends: For the latest reviews, the best rates, and to make reservations, visit Hotel Plaza Athénée

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Travel writer and luxury lifestyles expert Bryan Dearsley is Editor-in-chief of Riley International Media.