Hôtel Saint-Marc

"How did it strike you on arrival?This four-star punches above its weight with a discerning design and host of unexpected amenities. Over the course of two years, Italian firm Ditmore Studios transformed this 18th-century, five-story mansion with eye-catching touches like geometric-patterned curtains, Art Deco-inspired furnishings, quirky sculptures, and a popping palette of mustards, purples, and pumpkins. The good stuff: Tell us about your room.Designed to evoke a private apartment (of an owner with a retro fetish, clearly), the 26 rooms look out over the peaceful courtyard, the Place Baieldieu, or—if you’re lucky—the Théâtre National de l’Opéra Comique. Each has been done-up in one of five vivid color schemes, ranging from sky blue to fir green, and features designer rugs, rich velvets and silks, Murano glass accents, and Pinterest-worthy lights and fixtures. How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that find its way into your suitcase?Conveniences include air conditioning, mini-bars, and Smart TVs with international channels and Bluetooth connectivity. Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down.Whether awash in black paneling, beige stone and wood, or cool white tiles, all spacious bathrooms feature underfloor heating, bathrobes and slippers, and custom bath products. Most have both Italian showers and deep soaking tubs. Maybe the most important topic of all: Wi-Fi. What’s the word?Wi-Fi is fiber optic, and complimentary. Anything stand out about other services and features? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you.A continental or express breakfast (both available for an extra charge) is served in the sunny lounge or cobblestoned courtyard; the continental version can also be sent up to your room, upon request. The rest of the day, you can order off a menu of mostly homemade (and mostly organic) items to enjoy in the lounges, garden, dining room, or your room; there’s also an honor bar available until midnight. Head down the wellness floor for a dip in the hydro-massage pool, stint in the steamy hammam (under a dome of twinkly lights), and spa treatments using Payot products. Bottom line: worth it, and why?Revel in retro style--and easy city access--without breaking the bank." - Sandra Ramani