From Michelin-Starred Dining to Iconic Fashion Streets, Discover the Epitome of Parisian Splendor in the Heart of Avenue Montaigne at The Hotel Plaza Athénée.
Nestled in the heart of Paris on the prestigious Avenue Montaigne, the The Hotel Plaza Athénée, part of the Dorchester Collection stands as a beacon of luxury and a testament to Parisian elegance. Renowned as more than just a hotel, but a Palace, this iconic establishment captures the essence of Parisian history and luxury.
A favourite backdrop for movies, fashion shoots, and television shows, it represents the pinnacle of Parisian fashion and absolute luxury.
Surrounded by the grandeur of high fashion icons like Dior, Chanel, and Louis Vuitton, the The Hotel Plaza Athénée offers an experience that transcends the ordinary, immersing guests in a world where Parisian chic meets timeless glamour.
The Hotel Plaza Athénée, part of the esteemed Dorchester Collection, epitomises Parisian sophistication and luxury. Nestled on the glamorous Avenue Montaigne, surrounded by haute couture boutiques such as Dior and Chanel, this Palace-designated hotel has been the go-to destination for celebrities, fashion elites, and discerning travellers for decades.
The The Hotel Plaza Athénée is not only steeped in Parisian history, it is part of the cultural fabric of our time, having been featured in movies, fashion shoots and television shows. It is a global icon of Paris, Parisian history,
Parisian fashion, and of absolute luxury. Let alone the history of both the building and the street where it is located, Avenue Montaigne.
Since the 1980’s, the stunning, wide, tree-lined street has been considered the Grand Dame of high fashion streets. Dior, Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Valentino, and Fendi are all there.
This magical hotel only gets better every time I stay there. The The Hotel Plaza Athénée is part of a unique group of hotels in Paris known as Palaces. There are just 12. And they are considered to sit above the regular five star rating, as each is steeped in a part of Parisian history and offers premium accommodation in every way.
Overall Rating: 9.8/10
The Hotel Plaza Athénée is a jewel in the crown of Parisian luxury. Its Palace designation is well-deserved, offering an experience that seamlessly combines history, haute couture, and hospitality.
While it is among the most expensive hotels in the world, the opulence and memories it provides are truly priceless.
Location: 10/10
Perched on Avenue Montaigne, the Hotel Plaza Athénée offers unparalleled access to Paris’s most exclusive shopping and cultural hotspots. The iconic Champs-Élysées is a short stroll away, and the Eiffel Tower stands within view from many rooms.
The hotel’s central location also places it near historic landmarks and the Seine River, making it an ideal base for exploring the city. For guests arriving by metro, the nearby Alma-Marceau and Franklin D. Roosevelt stations provide excellent connectivity.
The most famous movie The The Hotel Plaza Athénée has been featured in for my generation was Sex In The City, when the 4 American girls went on a hedonistic holiday to Paris to live it up. Carrie was in the best room in the whole hotel – an opulently huge suite with stunningly appointed furniture and design.
Years ago I was lucky enough to stay in the very apartment where Carrie stayed in the film, right opposite the Eiffel Tower, but that was before the hotel closed and underwent extensive renovations.
Now it is even more extraordinary, and staying there is an unparalleled experience that is next level in every sense.
Having just stayed in the first class property in January, it is better than ever, and every aspect of it is a ten. For me, the The Hotel Plaza Athénée is a hotel where dreams are not only made, but where dreams come true whether you are with your family, your true love or even on your own.
It is a fantastical, remarkable experience no matter which of the 154 rooms you are staying in, and no matter what time of year you are there.
The staff are intimate but professional. They remember returning guest’s names and the concierge even remembered the restaurants outside the hotel I liked last time, when I had long since forgotten.
They almost feel like family, which is an incredible feeling when you are far from home. The level of service in the entire hotel is absolutely exceptional, and it is no wonder people return here again and again.
Food & Beverage: 10/10
Dining at the Hotel Plaza Athénée is a gastronomic experience of the highest order.
- Jean Imbert au Plaza Athénée, the hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant, is a masterpiece of culinary art. Helmed by Jean Imbert, the menu celebrates classic French cuisine with a bold, homely twist. From exquisite terrines to delicate poached haddock, every dish is a nod to French culinary heritage.
- Le Relais Plaza, the casual yet iconic art deco brasserie, is a Parisian institution. Under the stewardship of Werner Kuchler, it combines seamless service with hearty, luxurious French classics in an atmosphere that has hosted some of the world’s biggest stars.
- Breakfast at ‘The Plaza’ as locals affectionately call it is an event to be savoured. I make every breakfast there as long as possible. The tables alone are worthy of their own portrait they are so beautiful sitting beneath the largest Swarovski chandeliers I have ever seen.
- Breakfast staff remember returning guests and their preferences, and there is a lavish spread of freshly baked croissants, gourmet eggs made to order, Iberian ham, freshly squeezed pressed juices, you name it. The hot chocolate is to die for. You can read more about that here.
During summer, La Cour Jardin, the serene garden courtyard, becomes the most romantic spot for a meal or drinks.
I arrived home after a work dinner one night and made my way to the bar not knowing what I felt like – water, tea or a drink. So the barman asked about my favourite flavours, and preferences, and within minutes handmade a cocktail and said “Only pay for it if you like it and want to drink it.”
It was the best cocktail I didn’t know I wanted! That is the kind of service I come across at the hotel every time I stay there, it is empathetic and insightful, and present in different contexts and areas of the property.
Wellness & Spa: 10/10
The Dior Spa at the Hotel Plaza Athénée offers an indulgent retreat. The standout features include massage and facial beds designed with starry overhead visuals, creating a tranquil and otherworldly experience.
The spa menu is extensive, combining Dior’s luxury beauty treatments with cutting-edge techniques. Fitness enthusiasts will enjoy the well-equipped gym, which includes an Instagram-famous boxing machine and curated running maps that lead you along the Seine.
While the spa is exquisite, the absence of a pool might disappoint some wellness-focused travellers.
The gym in the hotel is brilliant, and has Dior fitness mats, and is building a reputation of its own on instagram.
I am a fan of the running paths around the hotel too, as it is in such a superb location on the right bank, (maps of which are available in the gym) along the Seine, you run through the cobbled streets, along the river with the Eiffel Tower guiding you like a beacon on the way back.
Service: 10/10
The service at the Plaza Athénée is intimate yet highly professional. The staff go above and beyond to ensure a personalized experience, remembering returning guests’ preferences and anticipating their needs.
Whether it’s the concierge recalling your favorite off-site restaurants or a barman crafting a custom cocktail based on your mood, every interaction feels thoughtful and tailored. This level of hospitality explains why so many guests return year after year.
I could write about the wonders of this hotel for pages. Few hotels can match the Hotel Plaza Athénée’s blend of heritage, luxury, and exceptional service. From its fashion-forward address to its cinematic connections (as seen in Sex and the City), the property transcends the typical hotel experience to become a cultural icon.
Whether you’re lounging in its Dior Spa, savoring Michelin-starred cuisine, or gazing at the Eiffel Tower from your suite, the Plaza Athénée delivers a stay that is nothing short of magical.
If you imagine your most incredible 5 star hotel experience, The Hotel Plaza Athénee will beat it. I promise. I just cannot get enough.
Book your stay here.
