Hôtel Flor Rivoli

It’s hard to find a hotel more central than the Hotel Flor Rivoli, a simple two-star sleeper located steps from the Châtelet Metro stop, half a block south of rue de Rivoli. Given the location, doubles for around €180 in peak season and €132 in low season are a great deal.

Aside from its very reasonable rates, the Hotel Flor Rivoli’s chief selling point is its prime location, a few blocks east of the Louvre, just off rue de Rivoli’s shopping stretch and seconds from the Metro (Châtelet/Les Halles, with an RER line that goes directly to Charles de Gaulle). The Place du Châtelet and the Seine are two blocks away.

Given this location and the low rates, it should come as no surprise that things are pretty tight in the hotel. The downstairs lobby can accommodate about three people, the elevator can fit one (see photo), and the 20 guest rooms are not spacious, only about 108 square feet for each room and en suite.

However, these guest rooms are quite clean. They feature dashes of pink and purple, with new bedspreads and carpets. All rooms are equipped with a flat-paneled TV, telephone and safe. Free Wi-Fi reaches the rooms.

The private bathrooms have not been renovated recently, and sport gray tiles and hair dryers. Most are equipped with box showers, but there are some tubs available (ask ahead).

The hotel does not offer breakfast, although there are plenty of spots nearby to grab a bite to eat. Note that smoking is permitted (or at least tolerated—we saw a few ashtrays when inspecting the rooms).

Note on booking: With this location and rates, the Flor Rivoli is frequently booked up. Try to reserve well in advance.