Hotel vs. Apartment in Paris

We have been to Paris twice and spent a week in an apartment (the first time) and a week in a hotel.

The apartment was great because it was more like a home with a bit more space, laundry facilities and the oppurtunity to go to the markets and grocery stores to buy food.

The concierge at the hotel was able to book a dinner reservation for us and offer tips on neighborhood cafes, etc.

Since you've already made your hotel reservation, I'd say stick with it and enjoy having somebody make your bed for you!

I have done both, and much preferred the apartment. With an apartment we saved money on both lodging and food because we were able to eat some meals in the apartment, make picnic lunches, etc. It was also nice to have some room to spread out. Paris hotel rooms are generally on the small side. Our apartment had a washer and dryer, which made packing light a breeze.

We rented our apartment through vrbo.com. We were met there at the appointed time by someone who took us through the apartment and showed us how everything worked. She answered any questions we had, and told us to call her if we needed help with anything. The apartment had many guidebooks and maps. If you don't have a street map you can probably go into any hotel you see and get one in the lobby. Metro maps are available at the metro stations.

Have a great time in Paris!!!

I have stayed twice in a hotel and once in an apartment. I preferred the apartment.

You have captured the downside of the apartment. In an apartment, there is no front desk where someone can call a taxi for you or recommend a local restaurant. There is also no daily maid service. As a pro, with an apartment you have more space and the chance to have some meals in your apartment which can be particularly nice given the great cheese shops and markets in Paris.

I rented through vacationinparis.com and was very pleased with them. You can pay with credit card via paypal in U.S. dollars. They do give you information about the apartment and other tips (e.g. number for taxi, etc).

Thank you so much everyone for your help. Unfortunately I have come upon this change of plans too late! So far all of the apartments in and out of my budget are book for May....next time for sure!