‘Not cheap, but the style, decor, service and fabulous location make it a winner’: this 17th-century mansion is within easy walking distance (via Pont Neuf) of the Louvre and Notre Dame. ‘It combines warmth and tradition with modern comforts,’ says a visitor. Housekeeping is ‘immaculate’; staff are ‘very friendly’. Recently-renovated bedrooms are ‘comfortable, not OTT, with traditional French flowered fabrics and soothing shades of beige; mine, at the top, overlooked rooftops’. From Wednesday to Saturday, when there is jazz in the cocktail bar (‘enjoyable, but not conducive to sleep’), you should ask for a room at the back. The grand salon has a magnificent beamed ceiling; the breakfast room is hung with tapestries; there is a patio with fountain where drinks are served in fine weather.