Hotel Balzac Paris Champs-Élysées: Luxurious escape with Eiffel Tower Views

I have often dreamed about staying in a hotel in Paris that had a view of the Eiffel Tower, and with Hotel Balzac Paris, that dream finally came true. On the corner of Rue Balzac and Lord Byron, Hotel Balzac tells a story of Parisian elegance, quiet luxury and style. And the main character of this classic Parisian story- is you! From luxurious bedding, to details that embrace the history of the building, and the great author for which the street and hotel are named. To terraces with Eiffel Tower views, a restaurant and spa, and bathtubs fit for royalty- this hotel will help you live the story of your dreams. Hotel Balzac Paris is quiet luxury and style near the Champs-Élysées. Keep reading to learn more about my stay.

This was my 9th time visiting Paris. Every time has been filled with excitement, great food and wine, and beauty around every corner. And while each trip to Paris has been an inspiring chapter of my life, this trip may have been the most special chapter of all… because of where I stayed.

Hotel Balzac Paris Champs-Élysées

A newly renovated piece of history

Hotel Balzac Paris is newly renovated by Festen Architecture, and the latest property of Relais & Chateaux. Hotel Balzac is the former private residence of Honoré de Balzac and the love of his life, Ewelina Hańska.

Honoré de Balzac: Legendary Author

Balzac, the author of “The Human Comedy,” along with a staggering number of literary works, is regarded as one of the greatest novelists in history. He is also known as “the first and most influential Realist novelists.” American novelist Henry James described Balzac as “the father of us all.” 

Balzac, Rodin, and a robe @ Hotel Balzac Paris Champs-Élysées

Balzac was known for engaging in lengthy writing sessions that lasted through the night. During these writing marathons, history tells us that Balzac drank copious amounts of coffee while wearing his robe.  

40 years after his death, Auguste Rodin famously sculpted Honoré Balzac in his robe to be “a visual metaphor for the author’s energy and genius. Controversial at the time, this sculpture is now seen as “the greatest sculpture of the 19th century” according to historian Kenneth Clark.

Do as Balzac did

With this detail, it feels almost natural that a luxury 5 star hotel in Paris with inspired, elegant and comfortable details should take over the very place where Balzac wrote all the way up until his death in 1850. And after lounging in the robes at Hotel Balzac while drinking my coffee every morning? I have a feeling that Balzac would approve.

A luxurious and comfortable Parisian Home 

The hotel was the perfect setting for Lisa and I to live luxuriously and experience a few of my favorite places in Paris along with many new favorites too. Hotel Balzac made it easy to get from place to place whether we were walking, taking public transportation, or calling an Uber or Taxi.

Hotel Balzac was our home away from home. After all of the walking and merriment, we had a place to come back to that allowed us to relax comfortably and truly recharge our batteries. And most notably, the views from our room allowed us to continue enjoying the beauty of Paris even while putting our feet up at home. 

Location of Hotel Balzac Paris @ Champs-Élysées

Hotel Balzac is located in the 8th arrondissmont, or neighborhood of Paris. It is on the corner of Rue Balzac and Lord Byron. This is a quiet corner in a neighborhood that is conveniently located to many desirable areas and must see attractions in Paris, including the Champs-Élysées.  

The Champs-Élysées is known as the home to some of the best shopping in Paris! On the Champs-Élysées you will also find restaurants and a direct route to the Place de la Concorde, and the Arc de Triumph. Whether you look left or right- both perspectives will give you a beautiful sight. So isn’t it perfect that Hotel Balzac is located right on the Champs-Élysées in Paris?

French Architecture at its finest

When I arrived, it felt like something out of a fairytale. The building is that of classic French architecture.  A beautiful limestone facade with detailed carvings throughout. The windows especially caught my eye, as each floor showcased a unique carving around the windows, along with black wrought iron gates.  Each floor was adorned with its own unique, yet classically french iron design.

A cream colored awning with the name Balzac stated across it covered a beautiful white marble staircase. It was framed by lovely white flowers, a black iron railing, and a bronze plate with the hotel, and legendary Author’s name. 

The beginning of my fairytale @ Hotel Balzac Paris Champs-Élysées

My eyes were filled with wonder, and a blissful smile started to peek through. What would this trip to Paris have in store for me? And so a new chapter of my love story with Paris was about to begin.

I would’ve stood in awe a bit longer but I was being greeted by Lisa, and a valet who was friendly, and eager to take my bags. The service at Hotel Balzac was marvelous. There was always someone there when you needed them.  

The Lobby

I walked up the marble staircase and into the lobby. The floors were an elegant checkerboard of deep red and cream.  Straight ahead- the front desk- made from a beautiful dark wood that made up the walls of the lobby as well. 

And to contrast the moody warmth- the lobby had plush white couches and ottomans lining the walls. They lit up the room! And looking back I see them as blank pages in one of Honoré Balzac’s writing sessions.  They were just waiting for the guests to arrive so they could fill the pages with their unique personalities and stories 

Hotel Balzac Paris: Quiet luxury and style near the Champs-Élysées

From there, we took the elevator, quite spacious for French standards, upstairs to the 5th floor. Hotel Balzac has 58 rooms, suites, and villas. Some of these rooms even have terraces and views of the Eiffel Tower!

The door to our room was a beautiful black color with a gold trim- so chic. And the key fob a soft black leather keychain with fringe- a detail that was much appreciated and very easy to keep track of. 

The Suite of of Hotel Balzac Paris Champs-Élysées

I entered our suite and immediately noticed the pristine white walls and the beautiful natural light. To my right, a lush couch of a light carmel and velvety material. The bright and airy living room was rounded out by two black velvet chairs with brass and wood detail.  And on the glass coffee table, a stunning crystal water decanter, and a welcome gift of sable cookies and Angelina dark chocolate salted caramel domes.  

The fragrance

I also noticed that the fragrance in the entryway smelled absolutely divine! Every time I walked into our room, I would pause, and breathe in deep to let the aromas wash over me. It’s the small details like this that created the perfect balance of comfort and luxury. It was a beautiful scent, but I had a hard time pin-pointing exactly what it was.

Thankfully, Hotel Balzac was happy to share the details. The scent, which could be found in our room, and also in the lobby, was a “fresh, green fragrance with hints of citrus and spice.” Balanced by cedar, white musk, and amber.” It created a tranquil atmosphere that encourage me to relax and enjoy my surroundings.

Beauty on the inside

I looked up, and as my eyes moved upwards, my head had to as well. Our ceiling was a vaulted dome ceiling. The dome was decorated with simple white moldings, and an elegant wrought iron chandelier hanging from a wooden plank.  

The moment took my breath away, and for the next few days, I would sit beneath it while sipping my coffee- or champagne! As if I were gazing up at the stars. It’s one thing to see Parisian architecture from the outside- it’s a completely different experience when you are enjoying it from within. It was quite beautiful to behold.

The Greatest View of all – A hotel with views of the Eiffel Tower

My eyes came back down from the stars to discover something else that was plucked straight from my dreams. A black desk was straight ahead, perfectly placed under one of many windows in this beautiful suite. I approached the desk to get a closer look, and pulled the sheer white curtains aside. I gasped as I opened the windows. There she was. The Eiffel Tower.

Dreams do come true

It has been a dream of mine ever since I first laid eyes on the Eiffel Tower in 2009 to stay in a hotel where I could see the Iron Lady from my window. If you haven’t realized it by now… romantic stories are the ones that my heart loves the most. To be in the presence of the Eiffel Tower is to experience beauty, history, and elegance! There is something so magical about it. 

And so every night, I would look out my window to see her all lit up, and every morning I would wish her good day. The joy of having this beautiful architectural achievement outside my window is hard to describe- as is the inspiration. 

What would Balzac say?

It made me wonder how many times Balzac stood in this very spot and found inspiration to tell a story?  But the most important question that I have about Honoré Balzac is this: What would he have said about the Eiffel Tower? I think it’s quite remarkable that Paris influenced the imagination of so many creatives long before the Eiffel Tower entered the landscape in 1889. This city is just so enchanting!

The Tour Continues

From the living room, I turned left into another room. The left side housed the bathroom, coffee machine, refrigerator, and mini bar, which wasn’t mini at all now that I think of it. On the right, another window and two stools placed in opposite corners. This small room was perfect for luggage or even as a sitting area if you want to chat with someone getting ready in the bathroom.

The Spa and Wellness Center

Hotel Balzac has a wellness center that includes a Sauna, Plunge Pool, and Fitness Center.  I love that they give you the opportunity to book private Sauna and Plunge Pool time for yourself.

The Hotel is also home to the Spa Ikoi which means “place where one feels good,” in Japanese. The Spa offers many treatments that peaked my interest from deep tissue massages, to facials, to fully body treatments. Sadly, when we stayed at Hotel Balzac, the Wellness Center and Spa were not open yet. But the spa is now open! The spa treatments will be something that I look forward to for next time.

The 3 Michelin Star Restaurant Next Door of Hotel Balzac Paris Champs-Élysées

Hotel Balzac has a famous neighbor that I do wish we would have made time for.  Restaurant Pierre Gagnaire is a 3 Michelin star restaurant by the world-renowned Chef Pierre Gagnaire that shares the same historic building as the Hotel.  Chef Pierre Gagnaire is a beloved chef all over the world, and according to Forbes,  this restaurant “has held 3 Michelin Stars for more than a quarter century.”  

I have heard that the fixed dinner menu is the best way to experience Chef Pierre Gagnaire’s culinary genius of modern french cuisine that is artistic, delicious, and groundbreaking. So if you desire to add one of the best restaurants in the world to your Paris Bingo Card, I recommend making a reservation immediately.

The Bedroom at Hotel Balzac Paris: Quiet luxury and style near the Champs-Élysées

I continued on the tour of our suite to find the bedroom. I have stayed in hotel rooms in Paris where you could barely walk around the bed, but here I could’ve done a Pilates routine in any of the 3 rooms if I really wanted to. To my right was a window, and to the left was a closet. It had shelving and plenty of space to hang our clothes. 

The Bed 

Straight in front was a long ottoman and behind it the bed. King sized with luxe white bedding and a chocolate brown blanket at the foot. I do love how the hotel mixed colors of blacks, white, gold and browns. Truly Quiet luxury at it’s finest. 

The bed was remarkable. Every night the bedding wrapped me up in this cozy yet cool cocoon of serenity and I woke up feeling refreshed every morning. They say that when traveling, you can’t wait to go home and sleep in your own bed. Well let’s just say that this perfect bed made me want to stay in Paris. In this beautiful hotel room. Forever. 

The windows

Our suite had at least one window in every room which made it not only pleasantly breezy when we opened up the windows, but the natural lighting was incredible. Throughout the suite, there was only minimal artwork, and I can’t help but wonder if it was because of the beautiful details of the furniture- or maybe it was to draw attention to the beauty that lay behind the curtains.

The windows opened up to unveil views of Paris that have inspired writers and artists- like Honoré Balzac- for centuries. The views WERE the artwork on the walls. And each window was a portrait of the timeless beauty that is and forever will be the Parisian Architecture that surrounded us. And the Eiffel Tower of course.  

Air Conditioning

When the temperature got a bit too warm we would simply close the windows and turn on the central air conditioning. The temperature was easy to control and always comfortable no matter what room we were in.

Functional Elegance

Our suite was truly an elegant AND functional space. The furniture was both beautiful and comfortable, and the placement of furniture, tv, mirrors and tables made the space very livable.  

Whether you are a couple, a family, or a few friends, you won’t feel like you are getting in each other’s way at all. Even the way that the bedroom door closes will allow for separation even when staying together. 

A Regal Bathroom

In between the bedroom and the living room was the bathroom, and what an absolutely regal space it was! The tiles on the wall immediately caught my eye with their fiery caramel cream swirl of colors. 

The tiles created a luxurious warmth and were one of my favorite details in Hotel Balzac. My only regret is that I did not take the time to have a bath. Instead, I took full advantage of the rain shower and the hand held shower attachment that was so lovely that it seemed to be a piece of art on display.  

Diptyque

The shower was fully equipped with Diptyque Shampoo, Conditioner, and Body Wash Products which smelled absolutely divine and added another layer to this luxurious bathroom experience I made sure to give myself every morning. I am a lover of quality hair, body, and skin products and Diptyque always understands the assignment.

I would end my spa-like shower experience with my favorite Diptyque Product that I used at Hotel Balzac. The Body Moisturizer. It made my skin velvety smooth while not being too heavy, and the scent was equally subtle.  

My morning routine

I would then wrap myself up in the big white robe- which I loved- slide my slippers on and make my way to the coffee machine. I believe Monsieur Balzac would have approved! The Hotel made sure we were always stocked with coffee and accompaniment so we could enjoy a quiet cup while we let our gold eye masks and plumping face masks work their magic before breakfast.

As I mentioned earlier, the mini bar was not so mini. Coffee, tea, snacks, and a wide array of liquor were ready to be enjoyed. Along with pre-made drinks, wine, and liqueurs for when the mood presented itself.  And in a room like ours where inspiration surrounded us? It was only a matter of time.

Robes and Champagne

One afternoon after our outing to see the Arc de Triumph, we came back to the hotel to enjoy a glass of Champagne- in our robes. After all, we were in Paris writing our story one chapter at a time.

 And in this chapter we were two gals who were brought together by a love of travel! And that day we were celebrating fun, friendship, and the journey that brought us there. Little did I know then, that Honoré Balzac probably had done the same! And so we raised a glass to Paris, this picturesque suite,  and our very bright future.

The Breakfast at Hotel Balzac Paris: Quiet luxury and style near the Champs-Élysées

Every morning we made our way down to the lounge of the hotel for breakfast. The area was right off of the elevator and past the lobby. I really appreciated how Hotel Balzac felt spacious yet intimate all at the same time. We had space to enjoy our breakfast without feeling rushed, and every morning we were more than just a number. The staff was genuine, kind and did a wonderful job of making me feel at home.

The Light Fixtures

I loved the light fixtures throughout Hotel Balzac. From the curvy lanterns lighting the entryway to the rectangular lanterns hanging in the corner of our favorite breakfast nook. Each was timeless yet still brought a different personality to each room.

Hotel Balzac Paris: Quiet luxury and style near the Champs-Élysées

The first morning, we ordered a cappuccino, and a double espresso. On our table, a basket of bread, pastries, and croissants along with butter and jams. They were tempting me to enjoy them while I pondered what I should choose to eat for breakfast.

For Lisa- the French Toast which looked delicious and picture perfect, while I ordered a very delicious version of Eggs Benedict with smoked salmon. I especially loved the Hollandaise which had just a bit of spiciness to it. My only regret from breakfast is that I did not eat more bread with jam- everything was excellent. 

A cozy winter story of Fire and Wine

The second morning in the lounge, I started out on the couch by the fireplace. The fireplace and mantle were a beautiful black marble and reddish stone decorated with colorful flowers in a vase and a mirror that added a perspective of the chandelier that was mesmerizing.

I closed my eyes and pictured myself snuggled up on the couch with a blanket in the winter time. It would be so cozy with a roaring fire and a glass of Red Bordeaux or one of the Hotel’s signature cocktails.

Different perspective, different story

Depending on where I sat in the lounge, a different story was told. Where our room focused on the classic beauty of Paris through the windows, the lounge added a few more surprising details to its design.

From my cozy moment in front of the fireplace, I made my way to the most beautiful and elegant corner of the lounge. My eyes were not only drawn to the lantern hanging on the wall, but also the 2 framed sketches. Both matted in black with a warm gold frame.  

My favorite corner of Hotel Balzac Paris Champs-Élysées

This was my favorite breakfast nook, and I could picture myself writing there for hours finding inspiration in all of the details. The dark wood and velvet color of the chairs complimented how the beautiful red and cream checkered floors danced with the rug.

I also loved how there were sections of the wallpaper that had a subtle, yet shimmery design. Some of the brush strokes stood out and sparkled more than the rest which gave it a surprising sprinkle of magic.

Our 2nd breakfast at Hotel Balzac Paris: Quiet luxury and style near the Champs-Élysées

For breakfast that second morning, I went with an omelette of French cheese, ham and spinach, while Lisa took her turn at the eggs Benedict. We also decided that we needed some fruit in our lives and ordered the fruit plate to share.

An Elevated essence of home

Hotel Balzac had the essence of home yet the details were more elevated.  I adored how they presented our dishes on a 3 tiered iron tray, and the beverages were presented beautifully as well. 

When I asked for a latte with oat milk for an extra jolt, Drussille, our waitress every morning at breakfast brought out a special treat. I was delighted to see my espresso with frothy oat milk served in a tall glass with intricate carvings all along the sides with a straw. These were the same water glasses throughout the hotel as well which even made my hydration an elegant experience.

The Arc de Triumph

After Breakfast, we walked about five minutes to the Arc de Triumph. We did not walk to the center of the Arc, but instead we decided to admire the Arc from where Avenue de Friedland meets the thrilling Charles de Gaulle round about. 

This is a bustling area where you will also find a stop of the hop on hop off tour, along with a metro station. Thankfully, it wasn’t too busy and we were able to take beautiful pictures without any hassle.

Julie Anne’s Travel Tips

There is something to be said for living in the moment. However, when I go home after a trip to a beautiful place like Paris, I experience so much joy when I look back at photographs from my trip.  

So my advice is this. Take the photos, and little videos now and then!  Looking at moments when you were happy and carefree on holiday can add some sparkle to a day that is grey. 

Photograph now, post later

But after you take that photo or video-:  Do not post these photos to your socials in real time. Quiet moments will present themselves, so wait for the right time, and until then keep living your life and enjoying the moments!

The Bar at Hotel Balzac

On our final morning we switched things up a bit at breakfast and made our way into the Bar at Hotel Balzac. This room told a completely different story! The lighting was dimly lit and mysterious- the perfect ambiance for enjoying a cocktail to start your night or perhaps a night cap to end it. And in our case- there is nothing like some mood lighting when your eyes aren’t ready for bright lights just yet.

And whether with a friend, family, or perhaps this story is a romance! I love how this room changed moods while keeping it a part of the same novel. Dark woods, warmth, stunning light fixtures while also having fun with some of the details. 

My eyes went to the right corner of the bar immediately. There was a vase painted with dark colors and filled with colorful flowers. To it’s right, a light fixture of iron and a frosted bulb that looked familiar… 

The Statue of Liberty

The light fixture reminded me of the Statue of Liberty’s torch that she holds in her hand. And what a way to honor history, design, and international relations. The Statue of Liberty was a gift from France to the United States of America. It was also designed by French Sculptor Frederic Auguste Bartholdi and built by Gustavo Eiffel.

Signature Cocktails for a Legendary Author

The Bar Menu is also one to be studied! The Signature Cocktails are named for some of Honoré Balzac’s most famous literary works. And just like the complex characters he wrote about, the cocktails were all unique and grabbed my attention right away.

“The Balzac Signature”

For my next visit, I look forward to the Apertif named for the famous author- “The Balzac Signature,” made from Campari, Dry Curaçao Pierre Ferrand, rhubarb syrup, fresh lemon juice, and fresh grapefruit juice. This cocktail really speaks to my love of Campari.

Champagne Cocktails 

Or perhaps the “Eugénie” made with Citadelle Gin, Dry Curaçao Pierre Ferrand, fresh lemon juice, orange marmalade, Moët & Chandon brut Impérial Champagne, fresh basil, and mandarin granules. I do love a cocktail made with Champagne! There is nothing like a glass of bubbles to make my smile grow just a bit wider.

Mimosas for Breakfast 

For our final breakfast in Paris, we enjoyed our usual favorites along with 2 newcomers. A detox juice made of greens, and a treat for Lisa and I to celebrate our 1st trip to Paris together! And so we ordered 2 mimosas.  

What a delight to watch Kevin prepare our Mimosas on the bar. He placed the wine glasses on a beautiful silver tray-forever the most luxurious of presentations. The orange juice was first, and the Veuve Cliquot Champagne was next! 

Champagne in Paris

I will never tire of watching someone pour champagne. Kevin did so expertly with the bubbles slowly building, just like my excitement to enjoy it. I do love Champagne. But in Paris? Well. There is nothing like it.

And so we raised our glasses one last time, and I decided to have one last croissant- because when in Paris! What a wonderful trip this had been! Paris was my last stop on a month-long journey, and ending at Hotel Balzac made Paris the greatest destination of all.

Reception and Service

The staff that we met at Hotel Balzac was kind and very helpful with all of our needs. Every day we were greeted genuinely , and the doors were always opened for us with a smile.  Housekeeping kept our room tidy and our bed looking fresh, while the reception staff was always eager to see how we were, and were very helpful in giving restaurant recommendations.  

Hotel Balzac Paris: Quiet luxury and style near the Champs-Élysées

In a city like Paris, where there are hotels around every corner, a place like Hotel Balzac climbs high above the rest (and so close to the Champs-Élysées). They deliver a comfortable, stylish and softly luxurious atmosphere all folded together in a place that has history and inspiration deep within its core.  

And even if you aren’t a history or literary lover, let me just say that Hotel Balzac has that special something that will not only allow you to live the Parisian story of your dreams, but it will leave you feeling that Parisian glow.

My Paris, My Home

Hotel Balzac set the stage for my 9th chapter in Paris, and it let me experience a story filled with luxury, comfort, and fun in a way that made me feel like Paris truly was my home. Want to read more about my Parisian adventures? I wrote about my favorite way to spend 48 Hours in Paris, and Where to Eat and Drink in Paris.

Many thanks to everyone at Hotel Balzac for such a wonderful stay, but a special thanks to Drussille for lending a smile every morning, to Matisse for making a reservation for us,  and to Justine, Rachel and Mark for a lovely send off.  Merci et à bientôt!

READ MORE OF JULIE AND HER ADVENTURES

This article is written by one of our writers, Julie Anne! A passionate explorer and storyteller, she brings us along on her adventures, diving into the food, wine culture, fashion, and history of each city she visits. Whether globetrotting or exploring her hometown, Julie captures the essence of each location, sharing the story of every place and person she encounters. Get a taste of Julie’s captivating narratives in her articles.

Also make sure to read Julie Anne’s Solo Travel Tips too if you’re in need of some good female solo travel tips.

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