Budget-friendly tips to book expensive boutique hotels in Paris
What's the story
Paris, the city of romance, history, and art, is also home to a dazzling array of boutique hotels. While these accommodations offer unforgettable experiences, their prices can be sky-high. This article aims to provide tips and tricks on how to navigate the expensive world of Paris's boutique hotels without sacrificing the quality of your experience.
Timing
Opt for off-peak travel
Traveling during the off-peak season can save you a ton of money on accommodation. In Paris, hotel prices decrease by up to 30% during the winter months, excluding the Christmas and New Year period. You can enjoy not only lower prices but also the added benefit of fewer crowds at popular tourist attractions.
Loyalty
Leverage loyalty programs
Most boutique hotels in Paris belong to bigger chains or have affiliations with loyalty programs. By joining these programs, travelers can access exclusive perks like discounted rates, room upgrades, and even free nights. These advantages typically kick in right away, and many programs are free to join. This tactic can elevate your Parisian getaway while keeping your budget in check.
Location
Explore alternative neighborhoods
Choosing to stay in the heart of Paris typically comes with a hefty price tag. By exploring less-touristy neighborhoods like Belleville or Batignolles, you can discover charming boutique hotels at a fraction of the cost. Plus, these areas offer a true taste of Parisian life and still have easy metro access to the city center, so you can save money without sacrificing on experiencing the local culture.
Booking
Book directly with hotels
Booking directly through a hotel's website often gets you a better deal than what you see on those third-party booking sites. Many hotels have special rates or perks (think free breakfast) just for people who book directly. Plus, it's way easier to ask for that room with a view or change your reservation if you're dealing directly with the hotel.
Apartments
Consider short-term rental apartments
For extended getaways or trips with friends, short-term rental apartments in Paris provide a more affordable option compared to boutique hotels. These accommodations offer increased space and amenities like kitchens, allowing you to save money by not dining out for every meal. Plenty of listings on websites specializing in short-term rentals accommodate various budgets and tastes throughout Paris.