Stay here: Mandarin Oriental, Paris

What’s the deal?

Every art and fashion enthusiast needs a regular dose of Paris – and there’s no better base than the Mandarin Oriental, Paris . Opened in 2011, it was awarded the coveted “Palace” distinction in 2014 – just three years after opening – by Atout France, the French Agency for Tourism Development. This rare accolade is reserved for only the most exceptional five-star hotels in France. 

Perfectly positioned on the prestigious Rue Saint-Honoré, this five-star retreat places you only steps away from the flagship boutiques of Louis Vuitton, Dior and other icons of haute couture. After a morning of indulgent shopping, retreat to the hotel for a restorative afternoon tea or a soothing massage before heading back out to explore.

Cultural landmarks, including the Louvre Museum (just a 10-15 minute walk away) and the newly renovated Grand Palais (around 25 minutes on foot) are easily accessible, making the hotel an ideal starting point for wandering the City of Light at leisure. When it comes to Paris’s most famous landmarks, the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame are each just 20 minutes away by taxi.

Inside, the hotel is a modern ode to French artistry. From the crystal butterflies floating above reception to abstract sculptures throughout, every detail reflects a poetic, contemporary vision of Parisian elegance. A standout feature is the hotel’s bespoke fan emblem (a different one is crafted for each Mandarin Oriental property), hand-embroidered by the legendary artisans of Maison Lesage, a storied embroidery house celebrated for its haute couture craftsmanship.

Why stay?

Housed in a 1930s Art Deco building, the hotel offers 135 rooms and suites, including seven breathtaking duplex suites – each a unique expression of elegance. Designed by Sybille de Margerie, the interiors blend Parisian sophistication with poetic flair, drawing inspiration from the glamour and creativity of the ’30s. The split-level Oriental Penthouse Suite fuses east and west in chic harmony, with butterfly-themed art, hand-painted crocodile motifs and a large terrace that boasts unparalleled views of the Opéra and Montmartre.

For ultimate indulgence, the Mandarin Penthouse Suite spans 2,712sq ft and features two bedrooms, a private terrace, gym, kitchen and steam room – a sumptuous sanctuary in the heart of Paris, complete with a guilloche-metal staircase. 

The property’s 14-metre indoor pool is a rare luxury among hotels in Paris, open until 10pm for leisurely evening swims. The award-winning Spa at Mandarin Oriental, Paris offers the “Romance in Paris” experience – a four-hour ritual in a rose-adorned private suite, accompanied by a eucalyptus-scented hammam, essential oil jacuzzi, Oriental Essence massage, champagne and macarons.

Start your day at Camélia, the all-day Parisian bistro, where sculpture-like croissants and made-to-order crêpes await. Its festive afternoon teas are a must after a shopping spree. For a nightcap, head to Bar 8, a glamorous cocktail bar with Lalique crystal accents and a marble centrepiece. Try the Bienvenue en France, a punchy mix of vodka and chilli liqueur, or explore the seasonal Paris-Tivo menu featuring inventive cocktails paired with gourmet bites. 

Cathay editors say…

“Staying at this luxury hotel, whose roots are in Hong Kong, felt like coming home. While at breakfast in Camélia, I was elated by the sight of a Hong Kong section on the menu. Congee (vegetarian or chicken) and piping hot dim sum fuelled my body and soul for the day ahead.”