The hype
Travelers adore the friendly staff and unbeatable location but consistently lament the closet-sized rooms.
Elysee Secret
$150-250/ night
Book this if You want a boudoir-chic hideaway steps from the Champs-Élysées and don't mind trading square footage for location.
Why People Love It
- Incredible Golden Triangle location (2 mins to Champs-Élysées)
- Staff that actually cares (rare for Paris)
- Nespresso machines in every room
Quick Take: A stylish shoebox in a prime location where you'll hear your neighbors but sleep on a great mattress.
Reviewed by @Nas: I felt like I was living my own French movie here! The attic room is cozy, the balcony views are iconic, and that bathtub was my favorite spot to unwind after walking the city. It's the perfect secret hideaway.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'courtyard view' is often just a view of a dark brick wall, but it's the only way to escape the street noise.
- You plan to spend 90% of your time exploring
- You appreciate 'boudoir' aesthetics over vast spaces
- You need a central base for shopping on Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8.5
- Housekeeping: Generally reliable daily service, though some reports of missed dusting.
- Bathroom hygiene: Mostly sparkling, but occasional reports of grout mold in older showers.
- Maintenance: The elevator is the main failure point; rooms are otherwise well-kept.
- Linens & towels: Fresh and crisp, no major complaints.
- Odors & scents: Neutral to fresh; no lingering smoke smells reported recently.
Sleepability™
7MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Thin walls (neighbor noise)
- Staff/door noise on lower floors
- Street noise from Rue de Ponthieu nightlife
Before you book
Good to know
- Reception is 24/7 and they will store your luggage
- City tax is approx €8.45 per person/night, paid on arrival
- Breakfast is €17 but often served in a small windowless room; skip it for a local café
What to pack
- Earplugs (essential for the thin walls)
- Compact luggage (no space for trunks)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Top floor 'Duplex Suite' for a balcony and actual breathing room
- Corner rooms for dual-aspect windows and slightly more light
Rooms to avoid
- Ground/1st floor rooms (noisy from reception/staff)
- Standard rooms if you have more than one carry-on
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am looking forward to my stay. If possible, please assign a room on a high floor (4th or above) facing the courtyard to minimize noise. I am a light sleeper and would appreciate being away from the elevator.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the neighborhood safe?
Yes, the 8th arrondissement is upscale and safe, though Rue de Ponthieu can get lively/gritty at night with nearby clubs.
Does the elevator work?
It's a frequent complaint in reviews. Even when working, it's barely big enough for one person. Be prepared to use the stairs.
Is there AC?
Yes, rooms have air conditioning, which is a huge plus for Paris summers.
How far is the metro?
Franklin D. Roosevelt station (Lines 1 & 9) is a 3-minute walk.
Can I fit a crib in the room?
Likely not in a Standard room. You would need to upgrade to a Superior or Suite.
Is breakfast included?
No, it's usually ~€17 extra. Most guests recommend eating at a nearby bakery instead.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The hotel is down the street from 'Pink Paradise' (a cabaret) and 'Le Sens Unique' (bistrot) — the street has a split personality of chic day / party night.
- ✨
Ask for a 'Secret Room' category if you want the specific boudoir decor shown in photos.
- ✨
The 'courtyard' is more of a light well; don't expect a garden view.
5 things to know before you go
💡The bathroom doors in some rooms are glass/semi-transparent — not for the shy.
💡The 'closet' is often just a small open rail with a few hangers.
💡You might hear the metro rumble faintly on lower floors.
💡The lobby is tiny; there's no real place to hang out downstairs.
💡Housekeeping can be hit-or-miss with restocking coffee pods.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Elysee Secret is located and what's nearby.