Grand Hotel du LoiretEditor's Pick

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Located on the rue des Mauvais Garcons (“Street of the Bad Boys”!) the two-star Grand Hôtel du Loiret is a classic Paris-on-the-cheap gem, offering some of the least expensive rooms in the Marais.

When we first visited the Loiret several years ago, we were not only amazed by the affordable rates, but we were also satisfied by the 25 comfortable, albeit modest, rooms. We figured that the low rates were due to the hotel's lack of an elevator. However, since then, the Loiret has been renovated to include a lift, as well as a groovy lounge outfitted with lush plants, a flat-screen television, and swanky modern décor—and the rates are still inexpensive!

The guestrooms are just as pleasing, with parquet floors and simple chairs and desks. They all face the street and are equipped with soundproof windows, a flat-screen TV, phone and free Wi-Fi. The rooms are on the small side but are clean and whimsically sponge-painted pastel blue, yellow and pink. And that’s just one room! (Oui, each room is painted in two to three colors. It works. It’s lovely.) Both private and shared bathrooms sparkle and include showers.

Fans of photographer Robert Doisneau’s iconic photo of a smooching couple, “Le Baiser de l'Hotel de Ville,” take note: The Grand Hôtel du Loiret is just a hop, skip and a kiss away from the Hôtel de Ville itself (a.k.a. the Paris city hall), along with other cultural hot spots.

Breakfast is served in a cave-like basement dining room €7. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout. Night owl alert: There is a strictly enforced 1 a.m. curfew; so if you plan to stay out late, this isn’t the hotel for you.

» Theadora Brack

Note: This hotel was visited by a EuroCheapo editor and is recommended based on cleanliness, location, price and overall quality. EuroCheapo did not charge this hotel to be listed.