Hotel Barrière Fouquet's – Timeless Luxury In The Heart Of Paris

On a recent visit to Paris to celebrate a special occasion, we decided to let nostalgia rule. We booked a room at a newly-renovated hotel in a corner of the 6th Arrondissement where we had stayed numerous times in our early days in Paris. When we checked in, though, we knew immediately that the hotel wasn't quite good enough for the special stay we had in mind. So, we decided to "upgrade", which is alway dangerous when we are in mid-travel in that it's easy to spend a lot of extra money! Luckily, we did it by spending only quite a bit of extra money.

Suite with a view at Hotel Barrière Fouquet's

This was a month before the hoopla that would be the 2024 Olympics, but even so, Paris was busy and hotels were, on the whole, fully booked. We looked at some of the very luxurious hotels in and around Champs-Elysées (a lot of extra money) before compromising on the less-eye-watering hotel, Barrière Fouquet's (quite a bit of extra money) on the avenue at George V.

Arriving in Style – A Warm Welcome at Fouquet's

Our check-in experience at Fouquet's

Fouquet's arranged for a car to pick us up at our previous (affordable) hotel. But, we had a lot of luggage, and our friend Jane insisted that she needed to come along to inspect our new digs. There wasn't enough room in the car for everyone. In the end, one of our party opted to jump on the Metro, so he set off for the Saint-Placide station, only a few steps away from where we were standing.

Metro and car got us to Fouquet's at the same time, where we were greeted by a pair of friendly doormen and escorted to comfortable chairs in one of the lounges where our check-in was completed as we enjoyed tea and biscuits. That kind of attentive and friendly service was a hallmark of our stay

We were more than impressed with Barrière Fouquet's and it became clear why this hotel is such a celebrated destination. Tucked away on Avenue George V at Champs-Elysées, Fouquet's has been a Parisian icon since 1899. Originally known for its legendary brasserie, the hotel has maintained an air of refinement while embracing modern luxury. This fusion of old-world charm and contemporary elegance is what makes the place stand out among the city's luxury hotels. You feel part of a long Parisian tradition but with all the modern comforts you would expect.

Elegant Design & Comfort in Every Room

View of Champs-Elysées and the Arc de Triomphe from hotel Barrière Fouquet's

The hotel's design is a wonderful blend of classic Haussmannian architecture on the outside and chic, sophisticated interiors within. Some recent renovations have enhanced this balance — marble accents, deep wood tones, and plush furnishings offer a comforting sense of timelessness. The ambiance is elegant yet welcoming, without a trace of stuffiness. There's a certain lightness to the décor, partly due to the use of natural light streaming in from the wide windows.

We stayed in one of the Superior Rooms, which, although not the most extravagant in the hotel, offered a level of comfort that easily competes with the suites of many other Parisian hotels. Each room is large (37 sq-m) and uniquely designed, paying homage to Paris's golden age of glamour, yet with modern touches that make your stay as comfortable as possible. Think spacious layouts, luxurious bedding, Nespresso machines, and amenities that feel indulgent but never overwhelming. And, of course, there's the view from many of the rooms — glimpses of Paris that are as much a part of the experience as the room itself.

Lavish Suites, Fine Dining, & A Spa

The garden and terrace of restaurant Joy

The hotel's suites, for those seeking something more lavish, are beyond compare. There's the Paris Suite, which offers a panoramic view of the Champs-Élysées and even a glimpse of the Eiffel Tower. It's exactly what you dream about when you dream of staying in Paris — a blend of opulence, comfort, and location that places you in the heart of the city while giving you your own luxurious retreat.

Beyond the rooms, the hotel's offerings are what you would expect from a place of this caliber. Fouquet's signature brasserie is a must, of course, but we also ate at hotel's other dining option — Joy with its delightful garden terrace, offered a calm respite from the bustle of the city. We also spent time at the spa — complete with an indoor pool and an array of offerings that made us feel wonderfully pampered after a busy day out in Paris.

A Classic Parisian Stay at Fouquet's

Pool with artwork in the hotel's spa

All in all, Hotel Barrière Fouquet's wasn't just another accommodation, it was a quintessential Parisian experience — perfect for our special occasion, or really anytime we want to treat ourselves well and luxuriate in the city's charm and sophistication.

Hotel Barrière Fouquet's

Our Rating — Superb-Plus!
46 Avenue George V
8th Arrondissement