Grand Hotel Francais

This mid-range property may not be grand, as its name suggests, but it certainly is a solid pick. With contemporary rooms, great amenities, a couple of nice freebies, and reasonable prices, the hotel offers good value for money. The lobby is small but attractive, with cream-colored walls and floors, bright red ceilings, and dark accents. The lobby bar, featuring similar decor and comfy couches, is a decent spot for a quick night cap or for planning the next day’s itinerary.

The hotel is located on busy Boulevard Voltaire, between lively Bastille and residential Nation neighborhoods. There are no major attractions in the area, but most can be reached by metro in under 30 minutes. There are four metro lines within a five-minute walk, and a fifth just 10 minutes away. The immediate neighborhood is mostly residential, with local businesses and offices, but a little west -- closer to Bastille -- guests can find great nightlife and dining.

Rooms at the Grand Hotel Français are small even by Paris standards, but have unique, contemporary decor in red, brown, or silver tones, and feature up-to-date amenities, such as flat-screen TVs, iPod docks, and free W-Fi. Some have a small balcony overlooking Boulevard Voltaire. Bathrooms are equally attractive, with either a tub or a shower stall with a massage showerhead, and generic toiletries. Minibars are stocked with free water and soft drinks, and every room has an electric kettle with free coffee and tea. One of the best features of these rooms is the fact that they are soundproofed. Rooms are too small to fit a cot or a crib, so those traveling with children may want to look elsewhere.

The hotel doesn’t offer much in the way of amenities, just a small lobby bar with a basic drinks menu, and a breakfast room in the basement where a buffet is served every morning (for a fee). Freebies such as W-Fi and in-room water and soft drinks are welcome extras. Guests staying in upper-level rooms get free non-alcoholic welcome drinks.