Handsome Hotel

The family room had a queen bed and a double sofa, and it felt spacious by Paris standards, with heaps of cool character. Our kids loved the tiny elevator and narrow stairs, which added to the charm for us. It's phenomenally located if you're arriving by train. Notre Dame and the Louvre are an easy walk in eastern Paris, and there are loads of food options and other amenities nearby, both traditional and modern.

The staff are always kind and ready to help, and the rooms are clean, nicely decorated, and comfortable. Breakfast is just right too, with enough to get the day going without feeling overwhelming. My mother and I stayed at Handsome Hotel again this August. We've been back for four years, and it really feels like our home away from home in Paris. We warmly recommend it to our friends and family, and are already looking forward to coming back.

The location is hard to beat, right in central Paris near public transport, landmarks, and historic sights. Rooms are reasonably priced for the area, clean, modern, and well decorated. Staff are friendly, there's always someone at reception, and it feels secure. Nights are pretty quiet despite the lively weekend nightlife. Getting around inside is the main drawback. This place isn't accessible for disabled guests. The lift is tiny and claustrophobic, barely fitting two people, and can take a while to arrive. The stairs are very tight and difficult to climb. I wouldn't suggest it for someone who's claustrophobic, disabled, bigger than average, or bringing a child in a pram, since neither the lift nor the steps can accommodate one. Breakfast is basic, with bread and pastries, cheese, cereal, bacon, and eggs. If you come down after 9:30, bread, pastries, or bacon are often gone. When I asked if they could replace them, they made me feel like an inconvenience for wanting the breakfast I'd paid for. There was no tea or coffee station or fridge, and the drinking water in my room wasn't replenished after I finished it. My room was very dark even in daylight, with only a little natural light and lamps, and no large ceiling light. For a three-star place at this price, it was worth it for someone on a budget who mainly needs a room to sleep in.

The Smart Deluxe room was on the small side, but the bed was really comfortable and the place was spotless. Staff were friendly and helpful, and the noon checkout was handy. Les Halles is a fantastic base, with shops, restaurants, and bakeries just around the corner. We had a great stay.