Hotel Du Cygne

The Hotel du Cygne is a two-star cheapo standard, a budget-friendly pick with a super convenient and lively (some would say "sketchy") location just two blocks from the Les Halles Metro stop.

The Hotel du Cygne is a friendly, old-fashioned hotel with a great location and heaps of charm. The building was constructed in the late 17th century, and today feels a bit like a country cottage plunked down into the center of Paris. 

The 20 rooms are pretty and comfortable, although not fancy. With rates averaging around €164 per night for a double, it’s a great value for the heart of the city. Many have cream walls, a hodge-podge of furniture, wooden beams purchased from a local flea market, and matching bedspreads and handmade curtains. Double-paned windows should keep out much of the street noise.

As the area can be lively at night, especially on the weekends, light sleepers should ask for a room on a higher floor or one of the twins facing the courtyard. If you’re up for a winding climb up to the fourth floor, there’s a very sweet double tucked away under the roof.

All rooms are equipped with a flat-screen satellite TV, telephone, safe and free Wi-Fi. And all rooms (except two cheapo singles) have a small private bath, equipped with a shower or tub and hair dryer. (The two cheapo singles share one bathroom.)

Downstairs, a street-level lounge with stone walls and wooden beams offers a friendly welcome. Head through the small courtyard (with its swan -- “cygne” -- planters) to the charming and cozy breakfast room (served for a reasonable price).

About those streets: While we find the area around the Cygne to be "lively" and convenient, others may find it simply sketchy at night. Rue St-Denis, a favorite for red light establishments that would make your mom blush, is right around the corner. However, you're in the very heart of Paris. Be smart and it's all quite safe.

The hotel does not have an elevator.