Hotel RivoliEditor's Pick

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The Hôtel Rivoli is an old-fashioned cheap sleep with a price that’s hard to beat—a great option for those who aren’t fond of youth hostels and don't mind the constant hum of cars driving down the busy Rue de Rivoli. Located in the Marais across from the Hôtel de Ville and a metro station, it's very central.

The Rivoli’s 20 rooms are unapologetically plain, dated and a bit scruffy, with thin carpeting and no artwork on the walls. (But have you looked at those rates?) The beds have one long, cylindrical pillow instead of two standard ones. And rooms may have a phone, but there's no TV. All rooms face rue de Rivoli, and eight sport wrought iron terraces. Two rooms on the sixth floor (no elevator) peek out at Notre Dame and the Eiffel Tower (the proprietor explained that he usually reserves these for his youngest—and fittest—clients).

There are rooms with their own toilet, sink and shower, rooms with just a sink and shower, and rooms with only a sink (both with toilets in the hall). Be sure to state clearly which type you're after.

The reception on the first floor has a sterile, '70s look to it, with linoleum tiling and bland furnishings. There's a small lounge area for breakfast or watching TV, not to mention one of the last surviving pay phones in town that takes coins.

This hotel does not have a Web site, fax number or e-mail address. It doesn't accept credit cards either. So if you want to book a room, you'll have to do it the old-fashioned way by making a telephone call. (And be persistent—you’re likely to get a busy signal once or twice.)

Note: The Hotel Rivoli has rooms on six floors without an elevator. Breakfast is offered for €5.

» Heather Stimmler-Hall

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.