Travel 2 minutes 27 February 2024

Pavillon Faubourg Saint-Germain: A Luxury Hideaway in the Artistic and Intellectual Heart of Paris

In the 6th arrondissement of Paris, the Pavillon Faubourg Saint-Germain – a hotel previously frequented by James Joyce, Léo Ferré and T.S. Eliot – has been given a discerning and elegant makeover

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Few Parisian neighbourhoods embody the capital’s literary and artistic heritage as well as Saint-Germain-des-Prés with its cobbled streets lined with bookshops, its literary salons and street performers. The City of Light has always been a magnet for artists of every ilk, and no area more so than the 6th arrondissement with its aura of creativity. This vibrant quarter has long been considered a paradise for creative minds – from Ernest Hemingway to Pablo Picasso – and many contemporary artists and writers still come here in search of inspiration.


A New Lease of Life
The Pavillon Faubourg Saint-Germain is an iconic Parisian establishment and part of The MICHELIN Guide's 'Plus' hotel selection. In 2021, this historic building underwent renovations that propelled it to new heights of opulence and tapped into its past as a creative haven – much to the delight of visitors in search of inspiration laced with luxury. Dating back to 1642, the hotel is steeped in history and, over the years, has established itself as a popular haunt for artists, writers and intellectuals from around the world. James Joyce, Léo Ferré and T.S. Eliot all stayed here, leaving an indelible mark on these magical premises. Housed in a magnificent 18th century mansion, meticulously restored to preserve its original charm, this hotel with 42 individually decorated guestrooms boasts a prime location close to the Seine, the famous Lapérouse restaurant, and many other Parisian landmarks such as the Louvre, Notre-Dame and the Eiffel Tower. The recent refurbishment has kept intact the Pavillon Faubourg Saint-Germain’s fascinating heritage while incorporating the handful of modern notes that make this a genuinely luxe destination.

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Pavillon Faubourg Saint-Germain
Pavillon Faubourg Saint-Germain

A Peek Inside
From the lobby onwards, the interior is a blend of classic and contemporary design, to which carefully preserved works of art and antiques lend an elegant and timeless atmosphere. But what makes the Pavillon Faubourg Saint-Germain unique is its commitment to fostering creative immersion. The hotel organises a range of workshops and activities designed not only to inspire its guests, but also to integrate them into the area’s cultural life. From art classes and literary salons, cookery workshops and wine tastings, anyone wishing to channel the creative spirit of Saint-Germain will find their way here.

The hotel’s signature James Joyce Suite pays homage to the Irish literary titan, who spent long hours in the hotel, completing Ulysses in one of these very rooms. Nestled beneath the hotel’s eaves, the suite is the luxurious embodiment of the bohemian way of life: with its exposed beams, attic ceiling and unobstructed view over the rooftops of Paris, it’s the ideal place to sip cocktails and watch the world go by. Meanwhile, for a more sociable experience, the ground-floor bar, also named after James Joyce, is an intimate, convivial setting. Yet even while enveloping you in all the warmth characteristic of an English private club, this is nonetheless a typically Parisian venue.

Pavillon Faubourg Saint-Germain
Pavillon Faubourg Saint-Germain

A Terrific Restaurant
The hotel’s restaurant, Les Parisiens, is well worth a visit in its own right. Thibault Sombardier, who made his name on French TV’s Top Chef, serves up fabulous dishes that provide a symphony of flavours, colours and textures. French classics sit alongside more modern dishes, like the delicate sea bass crudo, all featuring the finest ingredients and showcasing the chef’s creativity. With its cosy banquette seating and elegant design, the restaurant’s intimate feel makes it the perfect setting for a romantic dinner or a special occasion. 

Les Parisiens
Les Parisiens

More Than a Bed for the Night
If you’re suffering from writer’s block, there’s nothing like booking one of the spa treatments and making the most of the fitness facilities at the hotel’s wellness centre to get the inspiration flowing again – because the Pavillon Faubourg Saint-Germain is more than a hotel: it’s a way of life. Dedicated to luxury, creativity and cultural immersion, it’s geared towards anyone who wants to sample the best of Parisian life and get a glimpse into the golden age of some of the greatest creative geniuses in history. Whether you are an artist, a writer or simply someone who appreciates the finer things in life, the Pavillon Faubourg Saint-Germain promises an unforgettable stay. 


This hotel is part of the MICHELIN Guide hotel selection. Every one of the 5,000+ hotels in this selection has been chosen by our experts for its style, service and unique personality – and they can all be booked on the MICHELIN Guide website and app.


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