Five stars on a façade represent the pinnacle of luxury for most travelers. However, there are places for which this traditional classification proves too limited. In response to the demands of the most discerning guests, France has created the official, state-recognized Palace status. This unique distinction is awarded by the French Ministry of Tourism and the Atout France agency. As a result, it is granted exclusively to establishments that go far beyond standard market criteria.
It’s worth finding out how hotels. What sets the Parisian elite apart? When is it better to swap palace-like opulence for a more intimate elegance?
How are hotels created that have more than 5 stars?
The official Distinction Palace designation was introduced in France in 2010 to single out the absolute elite among five-star establishments. To apply for this title, a property must first meet the stringent preliminary requirements set by the Atout France agency. These range from adequate room size, 24-hour concierge service, and multilingual staff, to spa facilities and restaurants at Michelin-starred level.
Next, the application is submitted to a special committee composed of prominent figures from the worlds of culture, art, media, and business. They assess not only the history and architecture of the building, but also the unique character of the place and the tribute paid to the French art de vivre. The title is awarded by the minister’s decision for a fixed period (three years). Therefore, it requires regular verification.
Currently, only 33 hotels across all of France hold this status – from Alpine resorts in Courchevel to the French Riviera. About 13 of them are located in the capital itself.
What does this status mean for the guest?
- Service at the highest level: The employment ratio often exceeds two staff members per room, ensuring an immediate response to every need.
- Space without compromise: Standard rooms are usually as spacious as suites in typical luxury properties.
- Iconic amenities: Monumental wellness areas, architecturally stunning pools, and restaurants awarded multiple Michelin stars.
Two Faces of the Parisian Elite: Cheval Blanc and Hôtel de Crillon
The Parisian elite demonstrates that the highest level of luxury can take on completely different forms.
Cheval Blanc Paris – a modern vision of luxury
Located in the restored Art Deco La Samaritaine building on the banks of the Seine, Cheval Blanc is the flagship project of the LVMH group, designed by renowned architect Peter Marino. It offers just 72 rooms and suites, ensuring exceptional privacy. On site, you’ll find the culinary masterpiece Plénitude with three Michelin stars, the world’s first Dior Spa, and a 30-meter underground swimming pool.
Despite its gallery-like tranquility and top-tier design, the venue is renowned for creating an exceptionally warm, welcoming atmosphere for families with children, as well as for its observation terrace, which offers a panoramic view of the Pont Neuf bridge and the entire Seine.
Hôtel de Crillon – a tribute to history and ceremony
Located on Place de la Concorde, Hôtel de Crillon embodies classic elegance. Housed behind an 18th-century colonnade commissioned by King Louis XV, the property underwent an extensive four-year renovation under the Rosewood brand.
The interiors are filled with marble, gilding, and grand salons where time slows down over afternoon tea. This is an address for those seeking an elevated atmosphere, evening outings, and the traditional Parisian ceremony.
Are hotels with more than 5 stars always the only right choice?
Although properties with Palace status impress with their setting, experienced travel advisors emphasize that the key to a successful trip is matching the hotel’s character to the individual needs of the guest.
For travelers seeking discretion and romantic tranquility away from the grand spectacle, intimate five-star boutique properties can be an excellent alternative. One such example is the Grand Hôtel du Palais Royal – located in an 18th-century building on the quiet Place de Valois, right next to the Palais-Royal gardens and the Louvre. It offers rooms with private balconies overlooking the zinc rooftops of Paris and a charming courtyard, all at a fraction of palace hotel rates.
How to book top-class Parisian hotels?
It is worth remembering a practical rule of the luxury market: booking properties of this class through specialized travel advisors does not involve any additional fees. Room rates remain identical to the official hotel prices, but reservations made through dedicated partner programs guarantee guests valuable benefits.
