Hôtel Mercure Paris Gare Montparnasse ★★★★

Montparnasse may be considered the main business district of the Left Bank nowadays, but, make no mistake, it retains much of its history as the cultural hub for artists, intellectuals and libertines. As morbid as it may be, the enormous cemetery confirms it – here lies the likes of Sartre, Beauvoir, Baudelaire, and Sontag. Countless others called it home, like Picasso and Hemingway, among the first to ditch Montmartre in favour of the burgeoning scene in Montparnasse. Even now, Bohemian energy runs through its streets, rife with bars, clubs, and theatres.

In the heart of Montparnasse is the Hôtel Mercure Paris Gare Montparnasse****, an urban chic hotel that feels quintessentially Parisian. The décor is bright and modern, making use of bold blocks of colour that create a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, representative of the friendly service you can expect. Experience the Classic Room, which, in spite of its name, is not the bland and banal room you might expect from other hotels offering similarly named accommodation. On the contrary, it is a bright space with bold colours and a charming illustration of Rue de la Gaité above your plush Queen-size bed. It acknowledges the vibrant history of the iconic location you’re staying at, thus imparting a slice of that energy into the space. Take advantage of free Wi-Fi, flat-screen, and mini-bar.

The area is packed with bars and eateries, but when hunger calls, you needn’t venture far for great food. At the hotel’s Le Bistrot de l’Echanson, discover the joy of inventive cuisine and let the sommeliers suggest the perfect wine to pair with your meal. At L’Agite de la Gaité lounge/bar, unwind with a cocktail in one of the comfy alcoves. The fun industrial design, with its hanging lamps, creates a curiously cosy atmosphere. Come Sunday, the lounge is transformed into a brunch buffet space from 11:30 to 14:30 – recharge before heading back out into this lively arrondissement.