Le Marcel Paris Gare de l’Est

Situated in a six-story building with a plain white facade accented in Juliet balconies, Le Marcel Hotel's boutique-modern style is apparent from the moment guest step inside. Exposed pendant lights and winking silver mobiles decorate the entryway, while the lobby pairs white walls with bright accents like mod purple chairs and a bright red statue. Textured walls are finished with shelves featuring memorabilia, creating a homey feel. There are few other common areas, but they're design-conscious: a tiny (but cute) courtyard with lots of planters and a nice breakfast room with wood floors. Guests are mainly couples, drawn by the polished design and the location near major train stations.

This hotel is situated in Paris' 10th Arrondissement, on a busy main road full of fast food restaurants, cafes, and hotels. It can't be more convenient to the Gare de L'Est, which is right across the street (a two-minute walk), and it's only a seven-minute walk from the Gare du Nord. There aren't many major attractions in easy walking distance, though the cool Montmartre area (home to the Moulin Rouge and Sacré-Cœur Basilica) can be reached by determined walkers in a half hour. Still, the highlight of the location is its easy access to major transport hubs. Via public transit, guests can get to the Louvre in 14 minutes, to the Arc de Triomphe or Luxembourg Gardens in 22 minutes, and to the Eiffel tower in 35 minutes. Charles de Gaulle and Orly Airports are about 45 and an hour respectively on public transportation. There's no parking on-site, but the hotel gives guests a discount at public parking right across the street.

Guests rooms are decidedly small but stylish with clean, understated modern decor that pairs white walls and bedding with beige accents. In Standard Rooms (which measure just under 140 square feet), it's a stretch to fit two people and any major luggage. Most Standard Rooms feature open wardrobes and "work desks" that are more like wall-mounted shelving. Still, this size isn't out of the norm for Paris. Bathrooms, on the other hand, are roomy enough to move around in, plus they're clean and contemporary with beige tiling, cylindrical sinks, and cool cut-out windows featuring modern designs. Suites can be more than double the size of entry-level rooms and add extras, like sitting areas and Nespresso coffeemakers.

Rooms are air conditioned and include flat-screen TVs with international channels, minibars very lightly stocked with three free (non-alcoholic) drinks, safes, and free Wi-Fi, but no coffee/tea service. Bathrooms include shower stalls or combo showers and tubs, plus robes, free individual toiletries, and hairdryers. 

Like other small boutiques in the city center, this one has limited extra property features. There's no full-service restaurant, but a tasty breakfast buffet is serve daily in a homey dining area, or guests can choose to dine in a small but charming outdoor courtyard. Breakfast may cost an extra fee. There's also a little bar cart in the lobby. 

For guests traveling with children, the hotel loans out cribs and game consoles, and babysitting can be arranged. Services on offer are on par with upscale hotels, like 24-hour room service, laundry service, and in-room massages or other treatments. A computer and printer are available for guest use, and Wi-Fi throughout the hotel is free. Pets are allowed for an extra fee. There are no wellness facilities.