Been to Paris several times before. Taking a special friend for a special weekend. Any ideas on which of these 4 hotels is the very best?

My goodness, that must be a very special friend, indeed! These are all strictly out of my budget, so what you're getting is pure rumor, but I've heard the Crillon is the ne plus ultra.

Like Martha, I haven't experienced neither of those hotels first hand, but I also would settle for the Crillon. And while you're at it, offer your "special friend" a room overlooking the place de la Concorde (like Madonna when she comes to Paris ! ). The Athénée and the Bristol miss the grand location of the Crillon, and the Ritz is somewhat nouveau riche (and you don't want to end up like Diana and Dodi ! ). So, go for the Crillon.

Joe: <BR>I'm in the process of researching the same question. Hard to find much negative about this list, but when I do find negatives I typically take them to heart as being on-target if published in reputable source. IF your primary criteria are location, ambience and beautiful public areas, Crillon appears to be a can't miss. If you're going for a 'romantic getaway'and have high expectations regarding the room, I found one source which suggested that for the price, one may be disappointed. Main downside of the Ritz seems to be the occasionally snooty attitude of staff. Athenee and Bristol are higher rated in latest CN Traveler Gold List. Residence Maxim's de Paris is highest rated (rooms and overall) in Paris on this list...which I don't always agree with in retrospect, but is one of very few detailed rating sources. Good luck!

I'm visiting Paris in September and chose the Ritz. The Ritz is consistently chosen as one of the best hotels in the world hands down. I can't wait to find out what the hype is all about. <BR> <BR>