Hotel Bel Ami, Paris, France

The hotel is on the east side of rue Saint-Benoît - between rue Jacob and boulevard Saint-Germain. Explore the shops and restaurants of the Left Bank, as well as the sights including the Musée d'Orsay.

You're in the 6th arrondissement; Saint-Germain-des-Prés Métro station is a short walk south.

By plane: London or Manchester to Paris Charles de Gaulle takes 1 hour 15 minutes, after which, it's an hour's drive to the hotel. Paid parking available nearby. Book flights to Paris.

By train: London to Paris Gare du Nord takes 2 hours 20 minutes, after which, it's a 25-minute drive to the hotel. Book trains to Paris.

This hotel has a contemporary grandeur. As soon as you walk into the large bright lobby, there's an upmarket feel - with rich blue drapes, white leather chairs, books on coffee tables and cabinets showcasing luxury good for sale.

Staff are courteous and the dedicated concierge can help arrange transport and restaurant reservations. The small Maison Flamel Spa specialises in skincare offering massages, facials and beauty treatments in three therapy rooms.

• Restaurant
• Bar
• Gym
• Spa
• Family-friendly
• Free Wi-Fi

Accommodation is smart and modern, and the colour scheme varies on each floor. For example, white walls and beige carpets could contrast with orange desks or blue throws. Marble tiled bathrooms are bright.

Room types: Classic, Superior, Executive, Deluxe, Suite, Studio, Apartment

Key amenities: ensuite bathroom with toiletries, bathrobes and slippers, hairdryer, air conditioning, TV, free Wi-Fi

The bar-lounge is next to the lobby and serves a buffet breakfast, as well as drinks and meals. There are plenty of good restaurants close by. Breakfast includes decent scrambled eggs, bacon and mushrooms, plus quality pastries, cheese, charcuterie, yoghurt and fruit juices.

Café Bel Ami: French cuisine, dishes include foie gras, caesar salad and beef bourgignon. Buffet breakfast served daily, 7-10:30am.

Bar Bel Ami: comfy sofas, creative cocktails, wines and spirits. Open daily, 9am-11pm.