Hilton Paris Opéra

108 Rue Saint-Lazare, 75008 Paris, France

Hilton’s reentry into the heart of Paris is nothing short of majestic. After a $50 million design overhaul, the 125-year-old hotel, made for the 1889 World’s Fair, has been revived to its 19th-century splendor with a contemporary twist. Formerly the Grand Hotel Terminus and the Concorde Opéra Paris, the property’s landmark status—with its Haussmannian facade and elegant public spaces—demanded it be painstakingly preserved. Among the restored, original elements, the most awe-inspiring are the Corinthian columns, chandeliers, balustrades, hand-painted frescoes, and marble and mosaic tiling. Fortunately, the bar takes pride of place among them, making it the ideal spot to start your stay with a cocktail or glass of wine.

The style in each of the rooms breaks with the traditional stark-white modern codes of most business hotels. Here it incorporates warm accent colors and textiles. With few heritage elements left to preserve, the sense of place is woven in with custom etchings of iconic Paris scenes hung behind each bed. But you won’t be spending much time here, as the action happens in the grand salon.

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This Revamped World's Fair Icon is the New Hot Hotel in Paris

In January, Hilton debuted its $50 million overhaul of one of Paris’s most glamorous hotels. Opened in 1889 for the World’s Fair, the landmark building in the Right Bank’s Opéra district is walking distance from the Champs- Élysées. The elegant Haussmannian facade and public spaces, including a ballroom with vintage Baccarat chandeliers and the frescoed lobby, were painstakingly preserved. Modern touches include heated bathroom floors and a state-of-the- art fitness center. But the centerpiece is Le Grand Salon, where guests sip tea and champagne beneath a soaring ceiling supported by Corinthian columns.

A Charming Hotel in the Heart of Paris

During my recent trip to Paris, I stayed at the Hilton Paris Opera hotel for three nights. Despite being a global chain hotel brand, I was immediately struck by how unique this property feels. From the moment you walk in, it’s very obvious that you are in Paris and in the heart of the city. Le Grand Salon is one of the most impressive rooms in the hotel. Everything from the plush furniture to the sparkling chandeliers overhead give off a luxurious feel while still maintaining a warm atmosphere. As a popular spot for meetings, there is a good mix of locals and guests here throughout the day. My room was part of the hotel’s recent renovation and felt very spacious. There was artwork on the walls and the bathroom had sleek black and white tiling along with heated floors. Robes come in each room and while the doors to the balcony are secured for safety reasons, you can open them enough to feel a cool breeze and snap some photos. In terms of the food, I was pleasantly surprised. The breakfast spread is extensive and includes everything from freshly squeezed orange juice and deliciously sugary waffles to smoked salmon and gourmet cheeses. There’s also a small bar on the first floor that serves craft cocktails and France staples like champagne and Bordeaux wines. Since I had a Hilton HHonors account, I was able to take advantage of the executive lounge, which serves breakfast in the morning in addition to snacks and wine in the evenings. I had to catch up on emails while there so I appreciated having a change of scenery.

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