Hotel de Crillon, Paris, France

The Experience

Of all the legendary hotels of Paris, the Crillon might enjoy the grandest setting. It faces the fountains of the Place de la Concorde, overlooking the Tuileries Gardens and the Seine. Originally built as a palace in 1758 by Louis XV, then inhabited by the Count de Crillon, the hotel today is owned and operated by the Taittinger family. Yet for all its grandeur, it's one of the city's more intimate hotels, with only 147 rooms and a history of family ownership. Ironically, it's history that also creates the hotel's biggest drawback: Three of its eight banquet rooms are classified as national historic landmarks, making it a noted venue for high-traffic meetings and events.

The Rooms

There's no such thing as a standard room under this palatial roof. All rooms have been restored in Louis XV style under the joint aegis of the French National Historic Landmark Commission and the acclaimed French designer Sybille de Margerie. The most modest "Superior" rooms have king-size beds, pastel walls with white moldings, chandeliers, velvet sofas, separate dressing rooms and marble bathrooms with Annick Goutal toiletries, fresh flowers and towels featuring the hotel crest. The most over-the-top suite is named in honor of Leonard Bernstein, who used to enjoy its majestic terrace with a view stretching from the Eiffel Tower to what is now the Musée d'Orsay.

The Service
Maybe it's the influence of the Taittinger women, but the Crillon excels in taking care of its female guests. Tea is served on arrival, and fashion magazines are displayed on the coffee table. Upon request, a team of Crillon "angels" from guest relations will meet with guests over coffee to arrange shopping trips or private viewings of art collections. There is also a specially trained in-house nursery staff to look after children.

The Highlights
The Crillon is sublimely located for fashionistas looking to shop the famous names on and around the Faubourg St. Honoré. But it's also perfect for the gourmand: The restaurant Les Ambassadeurs not only shares the magnificent views but has also earned two Michelin stars under chef Jean-François Piège. Then end your day at the fabulous Crillon Bar, tucked behind the lobby. Designed by the sculptor Cesar, decorated by fashion designer Sonia Rykiel and open until 2 a.m., it's the perfect place for a snack and (what else) a coupe of Taittinger.