Hotel Eiffel Turenne

The Hotel Eiffel Turenne occupies part of a handsome six-story corner building, finished in simple white stucco with wrought-iron detailing typical of its neighborhood. Updated throughout in 2016, this mid-range hotel features a fresh and contemporary combination of warm woods, funky retro-style seating, and playful design touches such as a quirky freestanding check-in desk against a cluster of circular mirrors. Photographic art themed, spotlighting some Parisian architecture, is also dotted around the walls. A small breakfast room is located just off the bright lobby lounge that overlooks the street, while colorful corridors are connected by a spiraling staircase and (tiny and not wheelchair-friendly) elevator. The vibe is relaxed and friendly, attracting mostly younger couples in Paris for a couple days, though also a fair share of solo travelers and business guests.

The hotel is located on a quiet street in the 7th Arrondissement, opposite the Ecole Militaire and just 10 minutes' walk from the iconic Eiffel Tower. It's also just off Rue Cler, packed with cafes and bistros, while history-lovers will find many museums and historical sights within a 10-minute walk, including the Rodin museum, Army Museum, Charles de Gaulle museum, and Tomb of Napoleon. Getting around the city is easy too, with the Ecole Militaire Metro station two minutes away on foot. The nearer of Paris's two airports is Orly, at around 30 minutes' drive or 45 minutes by public transport. Charles de Gaulle Airport is about a 53-minute drive or a little over an hour by public transport.

All of the hotel's 34 guest rooms received a total makeover in 2016, and share the lobby's stylish blend of warm woods, retro-flavored furniture, and original photographic artwork. Rooms come in singles, doubles, and triples, starting at a tiny 115 square feet (10 square meters) with the largest rooms just double that. Most rooms overlook the street, one side of which can be a little noisy on lower levels, with a few overlooking an inner courtyard. Top-floor rooms have views over the Parisian rooftops, with two featuring partial views of the Eiffel Tower. Amenities include 32-inch flat-screen TVs, coffee- and tea-making facilities, and free Wi-Fi with a strong signal. Bathrooms are small, super clean, and modern, with mostly narrow shower stalls, wall-mounted hairdryers, and decent toiletries. Top level room types add tubs and heated towel racks. Power sockets include U.S. and U.K. variations as well as USB ports.

Travelers certainly won’t find the amenities of a large-scale hotel here -- there’s no fitness center, business facilities, or even a restaurant. A simple but good quality continental breakfast is available (though not included in standard rates), which can be taken in the small breakfast area or in-rooms. Digital tablets (with optional keyboards) are also available on loan free of charge, plus there are a few board games, books, and newspapers in the lobby.