Reviewed by
Tom Bell
Stick a pin in the centre of a map of Paris and it won’t land far from Hotel Thérèse. Add crisp elegance, ever-helpful staff and small but delightfully decorated rooms, and you have what is technically known as ‘a find.’ You’re in the 1st arrondissement, with the exceptional Jardins du Palais Royal and the Louvre both a 5-minute walk away. Molière lived around the corner, Stendhal bang opposite, and the road is named after Marie Thérèse (it was originally called rue du Hazard, where gamblers gathered).
These days all is neat sophistication. A beautiful open-plan reception/salon gives the impression of a small ‘big’ hotel, there are books and morning papers in one sitting room which also hosts a complimentary afternoon tea daily, and an enormous bespoke sofa in the other. Breakfast is a most generous spread which sets you up for the day – whether sightseeing, shopping or socialising with friends. Given that most bedrooms are on the small side, you can wind down the original 18th-century staircase (or take the lift) to plan your day in the salon, or recover from it with an apéritif.
These days all is neat sophistication. A beautiful open-plan reception/salon gives the impression of a small ‘big’ hotel, there are books and morning papers in one sitting room which also hosts a complimentary afternoon tea daily, and an enormous bespoke sofa in the other. Breakfast is a most generous spread which sets you up for the day – whether sightseeing, shopping or socialising with friends. Given that most bedrooms are on the small side, you can wind down the original 18th-century staircase (or take the lift) to plan your day in the salon, or recover from it with an apéritif.
Highs
- You're perfectly placed to see the sights, within walking distance you'll find the Louvre and the Palais Garnier opera house
- Rooms are delightful and understated, particularly those that have been recently refurbished, and most have bathtubs
- Consistently kind and friendly staff who know how to look after guests
- Rates are very reasonable considering the central location and the hotel's high standards, and includes the tea served in the salon every afternoon
- There are plenty of great restaurants just a short stroll from the hotel
Lows
- Renovations will be under way 10 February-30 May 2025, but rates reduced during this time to compensate
- Some rooms are small, but still well equipped and stylish (as with many Parisian hotels)
- A little noise filters in from the street; go for rooms at the back
- The lift stops on the 5th floor; guests staying in the 2 rooms on the 6th floor will need to take the stairs
- The disabled room has no wheelchair access to the breakfast room in the basement, so you have to order room service
- No other meals are served
Best time to go
Paris is a fantastic year-round destination; it's particularly romantic in spring and the Christmas shopping is fabulous. Avoid the salons (the trade shows and fashion shows). There are 10 throughout the year, Prêt-à-Porter being the best known. They tend to last 3 or 4 days. September, October and February are the busier months.
Our top tips
To make the most of Paris it's a good idea to bring comfortable walking shoes, a camera, a guide book to Paris, chic outfits to feel comme il faut, shopping intentions and a romantic disposition.