Paris Bed & Breakfasts
Many visitors to rural France have already discovered the benefits of Bed & Breakfasts — known as Chambres d’Hôtes — enjoying hospitality in authentic Provencal farmhouses or Loire Valley vineyards. And now even the privacy-loving Parisians are warming up to the idea of welcoming guests into their homes, those mysterious résidences hidden behind enormous wooden doorways, well-protected by concierges and electronic codes.
Hoping to encourage more meaningful interaction between locals and visitors, the Paris City Council launched a campaign in April 2005 called “Hôtes Qualité Paris”, a designation awarded to the city’s B&Bs that meet the strict criteria of comfort, amenities and friendliness. The Paris Tourism Office website lists the growing number of B&B agencies that have received the official seal of approval, including Alcôve & Agapes (Tel. 01 44 85 06 05; ), which has been promoting Paris B&Bs since 1998.
Hôtes Qualité Paris unites the listings for several agencies in one place, searchable in English by neighborhood or price.
More affordable than hotels, rooms are typically €50-€150 per night depending on the number of guests and amenities available, such as private bathroom, air conditioning, kitchenette, or internet access. The Parisian-style breakfast usually consists of tea, coffee or hot chocolate, fresh breads, butter and jams. And, of course, in addition to personalized hospitality, B&B guests also benefit from reliable advice and insider tips on exploring the city from their knowledgeable Parisian hosts!
