Hôtel Jules & Jim
Step in, kick back and relax in the laid-back, Frenchy-chic vibe of this boutique nook of a hotel, named after a François Truffaut film and the tragic love triangle at its heart.
Nestled in the trendy Upper Marais area of Paris — home to fancy eateries, cool boutiques and bars; and on the same street as popular vegan pizza place Hank and the Insta-friendly juice spot Wild and the Moon — this establishment holds its own in the aforementioned company, without being too full of itself.
In a nutshell — it’s four-star, funky/boho, and unpretentiously fabulous — with a mischievous character all of its own, without being too obnoxious or ultra-hipster.
Made up of 23 charming rooms sprinkled across the main building, in addition to two little houses in the courtyard, the atypical layout of this hotel is the first thing most will notice — it stands out amongst the usual perfectly-manicured Haussman buildings that surround, but is still somehow charming, with a quirky twist all of its own.
Some of the rooms offer stunning views over the roofs of Paris, while others overlook its paved, (private) leafy and cobble-stoned courtyards, which are encased by a glass roof and surrounded by lush vertical gardens climbing the high walls. During the fall and winter months there’s also a cute little fireplace carved into the wall which comes to life there, crackling quietly on the side and exuding an ambience of ‘camping-glam’ to boot.
Old black-and-white photos from the classic film from which it gets its name (as well as other iconic shots) adorn the walls and are hung up all around the place, subtly complementing the overall décor, which plays homage to the place’s industrial origins as a former processing plant — a modern, sophisticated mix of raw and sober materials such as wood, stone, glass, concrete and steel. Contemporary furnishings, exposed brickwork and homely bookshelves complete the look, adding a cool, arty touch.
Staff here are nice and friendly, the waiters which tend to locals at its popular bar are attentive; and the renovated rooms housed within the hotel’s 18th century frame are simple and durable with high-tech amenities such as air-conditioning, Bluetooth sound systems and complimentary wifi.. Plus 24-hour room service available from its well-stocked hotel bar.
Opened in 2011 and despite its central location — the contemporary hub of the Musée Georges-Pompidou is 10 minutes away by foot, the Louvre 20, and the metro Arts & Métiers (lines 3 and 11) is around the corner — Hôtel Jules & Jim has managed to remain a relatively well-kept secret, offering guests and patrons to its tiny little bar a cosy, tranquil sanctuary where they can come in, feel at home, and enjoy their stay comfortably; with all the perks and no drama.
The hotel lobby and bar (located off the courtyard) also regularly exhibit a rotating roster of Parisian artists, spanning photography, graphic art etc, making it the perfect escape to retreat to after a busy day of exploring the city and sight-seeing.
Perfect for: A practical stay in the city, a stone’s throw away from it all, and with all the creature comforts. If you’re not staying, then the bar is a cool meeting spot to rendez-vous with friends where you can let your hair down and chill in peace after a full day out on the town. *Wines are from 7€; cocktails from 12€; and glasses of champagne (Veuve Clicquot) 13€.
What to order: The breakfast buffet here is loaded with a diversity of ultra-fresh products and costs 20€ for one person, so get that in the AM is you’re staying; but otherwise, keep it simple and stick to the drinks from the 24-hour bar — no need to complicate your life here, it’s an easy-going place.
Address: 11 Rue des Gravilliers, 75003 Paris (Google Maps)
Trading hours: Monday-Friday // Lunch // 12pm-2:30pm; Dinner // 7pm-11pm
Saturday & Sunday // 12-11pm
Website: http://www.hoteljulesetjim.com/en/#
Insta: @hoteljulesetjim
