Overlooking the Tuileries Garden and just steps from the Louvre Museum and Place Vendôme, the Westin Paris Vendôme Hotel stands as a testament to Parisian elegance and historic grandeur. Originally opened in 1878 as the Hôtel Continental, this five-star luxury property has maintained its status as one of Paris's most iconic hotels, known for its prime location, opulent interiors, and commitment to offering a refined, world-class experience. The Westin Paris Vendôme combines historic architectural charm with modern amenities, making it a preferred destination for discerning travelers seeking both comfort and culture in the heart of Paris.
From its grand opening in the 19th century to its modern-day status as a luxury Westin property, the hotel offers a unique blend of historical charm and contemporary luxury. Each detail — from its spacious rooms and suites to its renowned dining options and wellness facilities — has been crafted to create a memorable stay for guests from around the globe.
A Rich History: From the Hôtel Continental to the Westin Paris Vendôme
The story of the Westin Paris Vendôme began in 1878 when it opened as the Hôtel Continental, commissioned by the Marquise de Païva and designed by architect Henri Blondel. At the time of its opening, it was one of the most luxurious hotels in Europe, boasting grand halls, marble staircases, and richly decorated guest rooms that catered to the elite. Its guests included aristocrats, diplomats, and European royalty who were drawn to the hotel’s exquisite decor, attentive service, and prime location.
In the 20th century, the hotel continued to attract international guests, solidifying its reputation as a top Parisian destination. After undergoing renovations to keep up with modern standards, the Hôtel Continental was eventually rebranded as the Westin Paris Vendôme in 2005. The Westin brand’s commitment to wellness and luxury perfectly complements the hotel’s classic Parisian heritage, and today, it remains a popular choice for those seeking an upscale experience steeped in history.
Architectural Grandeur and Design
The Westin Paris Vendôme retains much of its original architectural splendor. The exterior is classic Haussmannian in style, with ornate stonework and arched windows, embodying the elegance of 19th-century Paris. The hotel’s interior design strikes a balance between historic charm and contemporary sophistication.
Highlights of the Architectural Design
- The Grand Staircase: The hotel’s grand marble staircase is one of its most photographed features, reflecting the opulence of the Belle Époque era.
- Elegant Ballrooms: The hotel’s large ballrooms, with high ceilings, chandeliers, and intricate moldings, remain in their original style, hosting weddings, events, and conferences in a timeless setting.
- Lush Courtyards: The central courtyards provide a serene escape from the bustling city streets, offering guests a peaceful spot to relax and unwind.
- Interior Decor: The decor features luxurious materials, from rich tapestries to ornate furniture, which exude Parisian charm. Recent updates include subtle modern touches, such as elegant lighting and plush furnishings that enhance the guest experience.
Accommodations: Elegance Meets Comfort
The Westin Paris Vendôme has 428 rooms, including 80 suites, all designed to combine classic Parisian style with the brand’s signature wellness-focused approach. The rooms are decorated in soft, calming colors, with luxurious linens and modern amenities to ensure a restful stay. Many of the rooms and suites offer sweeping views of the Tuileries Garden, the Eiffel Tower, or Place Vendôme, creating an immersive Parisian experience.
Room Categories
- Classic Rooms: These rooms provide a cozy retreat with contemporary decor, high ceilings, and comfortable bedding. Perfect for solo travelers or couples, they offer a peaceful escape in the heart of Paris.
- Deluxe Rooms: Slightly larger, these rooms include luxurious touches like marble bathrooms and seating areas. Guests can enjoy beautiful views of the hotel courtyard or the Parisian streets below.
- Eiffel Tower View Rooms: These rooms provide guests with a view of one of Paris’s most iconic landmarks, allowing them to wake up to the sight of the Eiffel Tower right from their window.
- Junior Suites: Spacious and refined, these suites feature separate living areas and a work desk, making them ideal for longer stays or business travelers.
- Prestige Suites: These expansive suites offer the epitome of Parisian luxury, with sweeping views, elegant decor, and spacious living areas. They feature exclusive amenities and provide a grand experience for the discerning traveler.
- Royal and Presidential Suites: Located on the highest floors, these suites are the hotel’s crown jewels. Each suite is lavishly decorated with fine fabrics, art, and antique furnishings. The suites also offer panoramic views of Paris, including the Tuileries Garden, the Louvre, and the Eiffel Tower.
Dining Experiences at the Westin Paris Vendôme
The Westin Paris Vendôme offers exceptional dining options that highlight French and international flavors, catering to both guests and locals seeking a sophisticated culinary experience.
Le First Restaurant
Le First Restaurant, the hotel’s main dining establishment, serves contemporary French cuisine inspired by fresh, seasonal ingredients. Guests can enjoy a refined dining experience in a cozy setting that combines classic Parisian decor with modern flair. The restaurant’s menu changes regularly, featuring signature dishes created by the hotel’s talented culinary team.
Le First is also known for its breakfast offerings, with a variety of options from a traditional French breakfast to international choices, served alongside a selection of fresh pastries, fruits, and juices. For guests seeking a more relaxed start to their day, breakfast can also be enjoyed in the comfort of their rooms.
Tuileries Bar
Located within the hotel, the Tuileries Bar offers a sophisticated space for afternoon tea, cocktails, and light meals. The bar’s warm decor, with plush seating and elegant lighting, makes it an inviting place to unwind after a day of exploring the city. The bar menu features a selection of Parisian-inspired cocktails, premium spirits, and a variety of wines from across France.
During warmer months, guests can also enjoy outdoor seating in the hotel’s courtyard, surrounded by greenery and seasonal flowers, providing a tranquil setting to enjoy refreshments.
Wellness and Fitness: A Holistic Experience
In keeping with the Westin brand’s commitment to wellness, the Westin Paris Vendôme offers a range of fitness and relaxation options designed to help guests recharge and rejuvenate.
Spa My Blend by Clarins
The on-site Spa My Blend by Clarins provides a range of treatments, from facials to full-body massages, using high-quality Clarins products. Guests can indulge in luxurious skincare and beauty treatments in a serene environment designed to promote relaxation and well-being.
Fitness Studio
The hotel’s fitness studio is well-equipped with modern exercise equipment, including cardio machines, free weights, and stretching areas. Open 24 hours, it allows guests to maintain their fitness routines during their stay. Additionally, the hotel offers the Westin RunWESTIN program, which provides jogging maps and guided runs through nearby attractions, allowing guests to explore Paris in a unique way.
Meetings, Events, and Weddings
The Westin Paris Vendôme is a premier destination for meetings, conferences, and weddings, with over 13,000 square feet of flexible event space. The hotel’s ballrooms and meeting rooms are equipped with modern technology, while the decor retains the elegance of the building’s historic design.
Event Spaces
The iconic Salon Napoleon, with its crystal chandeliers and gilded decor, is one of the most popular venues for weddings and events. The hotel’s expert event planning team is available to assist with organizing everything from corporate events to private celebrations, ensuring that every detail is flawlessly executed.
The beautiful courtyards and rooftop spaces also provide unique options for hosting intimate gatherings, offering guests a blend of indoor and outdoor experiences.
Prime Location in the Heart of Paris
One of the Westin Paris Vendôme’s greatest assets is its prime location in the city’s 1st arrondissement, just a short walk from some of Paris’s most famous attractions.
- Tuileries Garden: Located directly across from the hotel, this historic garden offers picturesque walking paths, fountains, and outdoor seating areas.
- Louvre Museum: A brief stroll from the hotel, the Louvre is one of the world’s most famous museums, home to masterpieces such as the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo.
- Place Vendôme: This elegant square, known for its luxury boutiques and historic architecture, is only minutes away.
- Rue Saint-Honoré: The hotel is close to Rue Saint-Honoré, a fashionable street lined with high-end shops, making it perfect for those interested in luxury shopping.
Commitment to Sustainable Practices
The Westin Paris Vendôme is also committed to sustainability, implementing practices that reduce its environmental impact. Initiatives include energy-efficient lighting, water conservation, and waste reduction. The hotel also partners with local suppliers to source ingredients for its restaurant, supporting the local economy and reducing its carbon footprint.
The Westin Paris Vendôme Hotel combines historic charm with modern luxury, creating an experience that is uniquely Parisian. From its elegant rooms and gourmet dining to its prime location and wellness offerings, the hotel provides everything a guest could desire for an unforgettable stay in the City of Light. Whether you're visiting Paris for business, leisure, or a special occasion, the Westin Paris Vendôme offers an unparalleled blend of history, comfort, and sophistication, making it a premier choice among Paris’s luxury hotels.
