Fodor's Expert Review Imperial Hotel

Though it cannot compete in size with the grande-dame hotels of bigger cities, the Imperial, which dates to 1813, plays the part with conviction, with its marble lobby, opulent finishes, and traditional concierge. That said, it's worth paying extra for one of the newer rooms—larger and quieter than the older ones. An elaborately tiled coffee shop fronting the lobby is constantly humming, Thyme at Seventy Six is spacious and contemporary, and Sketch Cocktail Bar is good for an aperitif. It's a lively spot at lunchtime and Lafayette's serves afternoon tea (€35). The penthouse suite is named for Michael Collins, who spent his last night here before being shot in an ambush in 1922.