Ritz Paris occupies the block on Place Vendôme in the 1st arrondissement — an address that has defined Parisian hotel luxury since 1898, when César Ritz opened the hotel with the idea of offering the comfort of a private residence. After a four-year renovation led by Thierry Despont, it reopened with classic structure intact and updated amenities. In 2026 it remains a reference for historic suites (Coco Chanel, Windsor, F. Scott Fitzgerald), the Bar Hemingway and the Ritz Club Spa with its blue mosaic pool. A few minutes' walk away are the Musée de l'Orangerie and the Le Marais district. Rooms start at around €2,000 — confirm rates on the official website.
César Ritz, Escoffier and the Belle Époque
Before the Ritz, many luxury hotels were dark, cold and lacking privacy. César Ritz introduced solutions that seem obvious today but were groundbreaking then: a private bathroom in every room, electricity throughout, direct telephone and built-in wardrobes with lighting. He bet on details — linen sheets, indirect light, acoustic insulation.
To match the gastronomy, he joined forces with chef Auguste Escoffier, considered the father of modern French cuisine. Together they set a service standard that marked the Parisian Belle Époque. Marcel Proust wrote part of his work in the hotel salons; Coco Chanel lived at the Ritz for more than 30 years and personally decorated the suite that bears her name; Ernest Hemingway declared that in heaven the action would take place at the Ritz Paris.
The 2012–2016 renovation, led by Thierry Despont, restored historic salons, modernised technical systems and kept the classic façade and interiors. The result is a hotel that works as a livable museum — every corridor has history, but Wi-Fi, climate control and the spa meet contemporary expectations.
Suites, bars and spa
Among the 142 rooms and suites, 15 Prestige Suites honour historic guests:
- Coco Chanel Suite: 188 m² with black Coromandel lacquer, baroque mirrors and photographs of the designer.
- Windsor Suite: Pastel tones and Louis XVI furniture — dedicated to the Duke and Duchess of Windsor.
- F. Scott Fitzgerald Suite: Library and jazz-era atmosphere.
Even without staying, the Ritz offers experiences that belong on a classic Paris itinerary:
Bar Hemingway — 25 seats, decorated with Ernest Hemingway photos and memorabilia. English hunting-club atmosphere. Classic and signature cocktails; the Clean Dirty Martini and Serendipity are references. No reservations — the queue on the pavement starts early.
Salon Proust — Classic afternoon tea in leather armchairs, with warm madeleines and hot chocolate. Reservation recommended.
Ritz Club & Spa — In the basement, an indoor pool with more than 800,000 hand-laid blue mosaics, neoclassical columns, underwater music and a juice bar. Treatments exclusive to guests; some services open to external clients by appointment.
The Grand Jardin, a 1,600 m² courtyard, opens in spring and summer for outdoor lunch or drinks — reserved for guests and restaurant clients.
| Guide Item | Practical Information (Ritz 2026) |
|---|---|
| 📍 Address | 15 Place Vendôme, 75001 Paris. |
| 🚇 How to Get There (Metro) | Station Opéra (Lines 3, 7 and 8) or Tuileries (Line 1). |
| ⏰ Hours (Check-in/out) | Check-in from 3:00 p.m.; check-out until 12:00 p.m. Reception and concierge available 24 hours. |
| 💰 Average Price | Rooms from €2,000/night; Prestige Suites from €4,500/night. |
| 🔗 Official Website | ritzparis.com |
Practical tips
Bar Hemingway: No reservation, 25 seats. Arrive at 5:15 p.m. for the first seating (opens at 6:00 p.m.). Less crowded alternative: Ritz Bar, on the internal passage.
Rue Cambon entrance: Discreet side door — the same one Coco Chanel used to reach her atelier without crossing Place Vendôme. Useful if you want to avoid the square's foot traffic.
Cultural route: Musée de l'Orangerie in the morning (Monet's Nymphéas), Place Vendôme in the afternoon, dinner at L'Ambroisie in the Marais if you have a reservation — three Michelin stars, one of Paris's most exclusive tables.
Ritz-Escoffier School: Short cooking and pastry courses in the hotel kitchens, in French and English. An option for those who want a hands-on experience, not just dining.
Frequently asked questions
1. Do I need to be a guest to use the bars?
No. Bar Hemingway and Ritz Bar operate on a first-come basis. Afternoon tea and restaurants require reservations. Guests have priority if the room is full.
2. Is there a dress code?
Smart casual in public areas — no shorts, flip-flops or swimwear. Bar Hemingway and formal restaurants require appropriate attire.
3. What is the Ritz-Escoffier School?
A programme of short cooking and pastry courses in the hotel kitchens, with professional instructors. Classes in French and English; advance booking required.
Combine with guides on this site
To keep exploring on this site, these guides pair well with this article: Musée de l'Orangerie, Le Marais and L'Ambroisie.
Editorial note: prices, opening hours and booking conditions in this guide are references checked against official and institutional sources in July 2026. Confirm on the official website before your visit, as details may change.