What to expect: Deep in the Left Bank, this stylish boutique hotel is a favorite of vacationers who want to stay outside the typical tourist areas. Décor echoes a literary theme, a nod toward the nearby universities and the new national library, the Bibliothèque François Mitterand. Amenity highlights: The Villa Lutéce has the comforts of a four-star hotel, including room service, two phones with modem/data port hookups in every room, heated towel racks, and elevator and wheelchair access. Complimentary newspapers are available in the lobby lounge, and buffet breakfast (for an extra charge) is served daily in the dining salon or in guestrooms on request.
Insider tip: For a scenic route to the Eiffel Tower, guests can catch the Batobus at the Jardin des Plantes, 3 blocks away. This regular boat service on the Seine stops at the Musée d’Orsay, Louvre, Notre-Dame, and St-Germain-des-Prés. Individual trip tickets or day passes can be purchased at any of the stops.