The 88-room Hotel Le Bristol opened its doors in 1925 during the Roaring Twenties, and today is still one of Paris' best-known luxury hotels. It offers impressive amenities for its small size, including a sunlit indoor pool (a rare find in Paris); a three-Michelin-star restaurant, Epicure; and a lovely spa with three floors featuring a Turkish bath and playroom for kids. Families are welcome in this posh environment: There's a dedicated Children's Programme, and little ones may appreciate the fact that there's a resident cat roaming the hotel. Rooms are elegant, aside from the dated comforters, and very in size and price. The hotel -- located on one of the most high-end shopping streets in Paris -- is steps to the Hermes flagship store, as well as avenue Montaigne and Champs Elysees.

The 23-room Hotel Mathis is an upscale boutique property in the 8th arrondissement, within walking distance of designer shops and the Arc de Triomphe. The attractive, Art Deco-inspired decor is particularly impressive in the cozy breakfast room, which has crystal chandeliers, rich blue banquet seating, and crown moldings, as well as in the bar, which has plush red couches. Most rooms have a toned-down version of this look (antique-like lamps, rich curtains, prettily patterned desk chairs), but some have modern elements that contribute to a more eclectic feel. All have flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi. The hotel's charm and level of luxury are comparable to the Hotel Daniel's, but prices are often better here (though they're still not cheap).

Located on the Left Bank and just a hop, skip, and a jump to Luxembourg Gardens, this boutique hotel has 16 artsy rooms that feature distinct themes -- like the "Musique" room, which has a hand-painted musical mural on the wall. It's not a place for conformists -- even the exterior facade is painted in a tree design, making it stand out among its more traditional neighbors. The rooms are very modern, with iPod docks, CD/DVD players, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi. Bathrooms meld into the rooms (with separate water closets) and come with powerful showers or whirlpool tubs. There's also a restaurant and bar here, but there are tons of other dining options just outside. All in all, it's a great choice for those looking for something different but central -- though travelers looking for a true Parisian experience won't find it here.

This boutique hotel is a beacon of style on an otherwise quiet and nondescript street near L'Arc de Triomphe. The Mon Hotel pays homage to pop culture, with black and white photography of iconic celebrities like Marilyn Monroe lining the walls and funky chandeliers hanging from the lobby ceiling. There are only 36 rooms here, taking up six floors, and they're all just as stylish as the lobby, with crisp white linens and modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs and iPod docks. Higher tier rooms have more amenities, including balconies/terraces (some with seating) and Nespresso machines. The Mon Restaurant/Bar is multi-use and serves breakfast buffet in the morning, and small plates during the day. In the evening, candles are lit and lounge music plays to silent black-and-white films on a giant screen -- a cool vibe for a pre- or post-dinner cocktail. Quieter guests need not worry --the joint closes at midnight, so there's no late-night party scene. The hotel also has a spa, Turkish bath, and small fitness center.

The Hotel Duc de Saint-Simon is a classic choice for those seeking a traditional Parisian hotel with historic and romantic touches. It is said to be the place where Lauren Bacall stays while in Paris, which might help describe the guests who best fit in here: people of a certain age, with a certain budget. Rooms are not cheap, but the hotel sees many repeat visitors thanks to its great location on the Left Bank near Saint Germain and the Musee d'Orsay. The property is split by an outdoor terrace, and has a labyrinth feel on the inside with a series of small lounge areas. Head downstairs to the underground cave for breakfast or cocktails, and marvel at the oil paintings and Persian rugs. Comfortable rooms come in three sizes: Classic, Superior, or Suite, and -- like other areas of the hotel -- are decorated in rich fabrics and antique furniture (even the keys are antique). Room perks include flat-screen TVs, large bathrooms (by European standards), and plush bathrobes. Some rooms offer a private terrace or balcony, providing a nice spot to enjoy a glass of champagne from the hotel's impressive wine list.

The Hidden Hotel -- as its name suggests -- is tucked away on a quaint side street within walking distance to L'Arc de Triomphe and the Charles de Gualle metro station. The intimate hotel has only 23 rooms, and incorporates handmade craftsmanship and natural materials that give it a contemporary and Zen-like vibe. Room types come in different levels (some include balconies and terraces) and though small in size, are effortlessly chic. Beds -- dressed in organic cottons, of course -- are canopy style, and bathrooms have an open design with granite finishes and rainfall showerheads. Though breakfast has a fee, it is a healthy spread using local ingredients. In the evenings, the cozy bar is a great spot for pre-dinner drinks and appetizers, and during the day a barista serves up delicious cappuccino (and other coffee treats) in the chic setting.

The 33-room Les Jardins de la Villa is a boutique hotel with contemporary style in a quiet location. Stylish rooms are a good size for Paris standards, and are equipped with great extras such as free on-demand movies, free Wi-Fi, and Nespresso machines. They strike a good balance between practical amenities and fun touches (pops of bright color, avant-garde headboards), and feature luxurious bathrooms with walk-in showers (pricier rooms also have separate soaking tubs). Hotel highlights include the two-person hammam, beautiful winter garden, and convenient honesty bar in the evenings. While breakfast is expensive and the location is a little out of the way, it is a good pick for amenities and style.

Hotel Daniel is an elegant boutique located between the Champs Elysees and Rue du Fauburg Saint-Honore, two of the most famous streets in Paris. With an abundance of silks, rich fabrics, furniture from around the globe, and hand-painted wallpaper, this small property has charm to spare. The 26 rooms are decent-sized for Paris, and come with great amenities including luxurious bathrooms with big soaking tubs and striking antiques. The restaurant is outstanding (but expensive), and service is top-notch, but there’s little in the way of amenities. Extras -- such as valet parking and breakfast -- are quite pricey.

Located in the upscale, historic Place de Vosges -- the oldest planned square in Paris, built by Henri IV starting in 1605 -- the elegant Pavillon de la Reine exudes a quintessentially Parisian elegance and charm. Each of its 53 beautifully appointed rooms is uniquely decorated in a style that ranges from classic French (four-poster beds and toile wallpaper) to contemporary (tufted, upholstered headboards in bright hues). Some feature Juliette balconies that overlook the lovely topiary- and ivy-clad grounds, while others feature slanted ceilings (which can make the space feel more cramped). Every room, though, comes with the same high-end amenities, including flat-screen TVs, iPod docks, and spacious bathrooms. There's no restaurant, but the hotel features a wonderful spa by Carita Paris with exclusive treatments. With all this luxury, though, expect a price to match.

This historic Parisian building near Champs Elysees -- once a private mansion of Comte de Breteuil, and formerly known as the Crowne Plaza hotel -- is now owned by the InterContinental brand. But the property doesn't feel like a chain, offering 55 rooms and stylish boutique design by Bruno Borrione. Well-dressed guests linger in the communal areas, which include a lounge, and outdoor terrace surrounded by potted plants and classic architecture. The attached jazz-themed restaurant serves continental breakfast in the mornings and international gourmet cuisine for lunch and dinner. Rooms are modern and bright, with red accents, black and white ceiling murals, iPod/iPad docks, mini-fridges, coffeemakers, and flat-screen TVs. Bathrooms -- also impressive -- include sliding doors, deep sinks, shower/tub combos and Hermes toiletries. A number of features were provided with business travelers in mind, including the high-tech meeting space and business corner, which are decorated with hip wall murals and atmospheric lighting. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout.