Hotel Henri IV

I often recommend this hotel to anyone staying in Paris, especially if it's a first trip to Paris. It's smack in the middle of the city and near the river, which makes it easier to get your bearings. It gets consistently good reviews. There are any number of good restaurants in the neighborhood. It looks out on the beautiful, old St. Severin church, which is definitely worth a peak.

I would caution you though about the area directly across the street. There is a warren of small streets, leading around to the front of St. Severin. Although they're fun to walk through, I'd avoid eating anywhere in there. The food is not terribly appetizing, with hawkers outside beckoning people in. Always, always a bad sign.

Look for the tiny alleyway called Chat-qui-Pêche off the r. de la Huchette, which is the narrowest street in Paris.

And a lovely bistro a short walk away is the Atelier Maitre Albert. They open for dinner at 6:30 for people who like to dine earlier. It serves all spit-roasted meats in a lovely room with a large fireplace. Be sure to reserve, even if you pop in during the day for that evening. Your welcome will be a bit warmer than if you don't.

Thanks very much, very helpful.

We have stayed several times at Hotel Residence Henri IV which is about six blocks from the Seine. It is a lovely characterful hotel. Not sure which Henri IV you are considering.

Excellent point, Cynthia. I forgot about the other Henri IV.

Jim, I was talking about the one on the r. St. Jacques, which is very near the river, not six blocks away.

We have often stayed at the Henri IV rive Gauche and like it. It is a small boutique hotel with nice rooms (small but nice) and some of them look out on an old church. We haven't taken breakfast in the hotel so can't speak to that. We like the location and like the hotel a lot.

I stayed there on my first trip to Paris, but that was 20 years ago. I did really like it at the time and the location is fantastic.