Directors Choice
Le Bristol
PARIS
Le Bristol Paris, a legendary address in the heart of the city, has been welcoming guests since 1925. From the moment you step inside, the hotel exudes timeless grandeur, opulent interiors, gleaming marble floors, and décor that pays homage to the elegance of 18th-century Paris. It is, without question, one of the most prestigious and storied hotels in the French capital.
The dining experiences at Le Bristol are nothing short of extraordinary. At the three-Michelin-starred Epicure, Chef Éric Frechon crafts exquisite haute cuisine overlooking the hotel’s serene French gardens. The one-Michelin-starred 114 Faubourg offers a refined yet inviting brasserie ambiance, while Café Antonia provides a chic setting for afternoon tea or relaxed all-day dining. As night falls, Le Bar du Bristol becomes one of Paris’s most fashionable addresses. A sophisticated gathering place where elegance and energy meet.
Among Le Bristol’s most distinctive features is its stunning rooftop swimming pool, offering panoramic views across the Parisian skyline, including the Eiffel Tower and the city’s iconic rooftops. Designed by architect Professor Pinnau (famed for his work on the yachts of the Onassis and Niarchos families) the pool evokes the graceful prow of a grand sailboat. At the heart of the hotel, the beautifully manicured French garden offers a tranquil retreat, a haven of calm just steps away from the bustle of the city.
In recognition of its exceptional heritage and service, Le Bristol was among the very first hotels to be awarded France’s prestigious 'Palace' distinction. A classification introduced in 2010 by the French Minister of Tourism to honour establishments exceeding five-star excellence. As the inaugural member of this elite group, Le Bristol continues to embody the very essence of Parisian luxury and refinement, proudly maintaining its Palace status alongside only a select few of the finest hotels in France.
Located on the rue du Faubourg Saint Honoré, the equivalent of Bond Street, the hotel is surrounded by the most exquisite high end brands and boutiques. Just a few minutes walk away from the Champs Elysees and Le Palais de L’Elysee, but easily accessible to many of the highlights in Paris.
We visited Le Bristol just a few days before Christmas, accompanied by our daughter, and were immediately captivated by the hotel’s enchanting festive atmosphere. The property strikes a perfect balance between sophistication and warmth, making it an ideal choice for families during the holiday season. Thoughtful touches such as bespoke amenities for children and menus designed to delight even the most discerning (or particular) of guests ensure that families feel entirely at home. With a variety of interconnecting rooms and suites available, Le Bristol can comfortably accommodate families of all sizes.
Adding to its charm is the hotel’s beloved resident cat, Fa-Ron, a pampered and graceful presence who has become something of a mascot. It is not unusual to find her basking in a sunbeam atop the reception desk, happily accepting the affection of young admirers.
While wonderfully family-friendly, Le Bristol also caters effortlessly to solo travellers, couples, and groups of friends. Its central Parisian location and the rare privilege of housing two Michelin-starred restaurants under one roof make it a truly exceptional destination for all who appreciate fine living and impeccable hospitality.
What makes this hotel unique is, quite simply, the attention to detail. Every aspect of Le Bristol Paris reflects an unwavering commitment to perfection — from the immaculate interiors to the impeccable professionalism of the staff. Nothing feels out of place; every amenity a guest might desire has been thoughtfully anticipated.
One moment that perfectly captures this philosophy comes courtesy of our daughter, who still fondly recalls the fruit salad served at breakfast, accompanied by a delicate chocolate plaque, elegantly inscribed with the hotel’s name in gold. But then, what else would one expect from a hotel that houses a three-Michelin-starred restaurant?
As Audrey Hepburn so perfectly said in Sabrina, “Paris is always a good idea”, and we couldn’t agree more.
Visiting just before Christmas, we found both the hotel and the city adorned in festive splendour, radiating warmth, light, and a sense of timeless celebration.
From the moment we arrived, we felt completely at home. The staff possess that rare gift of making each guest feel as though they are the only ones in residence — an art of hospitality that is as uncommon as it is unforgettable.
