When it was inaugurated in 1875, the Hotel du Louvre was the first grand luxury hotel in Paris. Commissioned by Emperor Napoleon III, the hotel had many innovative features back in the day, including steam-powered elevators and multiple bathrooms to serve its 700 guestrooms. Now, after a top-to-bottom renovation that lasted two years, the Hotel du Louvre has reopened its doors as part of Hyatt’s Unbound Collection. This is prime Paris real estate; the Second Empire monument gazes at the Palais Garnier down the Avenue de l’Opera, and it’s just a stone’s throw from the Palais Royal gardens, the Comédie Française and the world’s most popular museum. To celebrate its new era, the hotel commissioned parfumeur Pierre Guillaume to create a signature scent.
The total acommodation count is 164 rooms, including 57 suites and one signature suite. Note that some have balconies for taking in the impressive views. A highlight is the bar, L’officine du Louvre, filled with light from the original glass roof, its neoclassical details newly restored. The bar pays homage to Napoleon III and his passion for botany, with a cocktail menu featuring French liqueurs and spirits infused with plants, flowers and herbs. Another stand-out is the Brasserie Bocuse, the very first outpost in the French capital.
But perhaps the coolest part of all is the portfolio of insider experiences that the hotel has designed for guests to immerse themselves in local Parisian life—free of charge. These include pétanque games at the nearby Palais Royal gardens, a visit to the Caves du Louvre wine museum and a walking tour of the neighborhood. Insider tip: Reserve one of the gourmet picnic baskets to enjoy on the quays of the Seine.