Hermes

The Hermes Hotel caters to budget travelers and guests who might otherwise choose a hostel but want private rooms with all the basic amenities. Its prime location and great little rooftop terrace have broad appeal, too. Public spaces are simple but stylish, with bold primary colors and furniture with a touch of midcentury modern design. A smattering of large globe pedants hang in the attractive breakfast room and in the lobby, where there's an reception desk fashioned from unfinished wooden boards. Throw pillows in trendy prints line wood benches, and there's a desktop computers tucked in an alcove that guests can use free of charge. 

The hotel is just down the block from the waterfront on a two-way street, ending at the Quai du Port, which wraps around the Vieux Port. Other hotels and several shops and restaurants line the road, and nearly every historical sight is within a 20-minute walk, including Notre-Dame de la Garde cathedral. The bus and Noailles Metro stop are about a 10-minute walk away. By car, the main train station and cruise terminal are about a five-minute drive, and the airport is just under 25 minutes away.   

The same trendy decor found in public spaces carries over to guest rooms at Hermes Hotel. There's unfinished wood furniture -- shelves, bedside tables, and headboards -- along with metal racks for hanging clothes. Bold red throws on beds and drapes add a splash of color. All units are well-soundproofed thanks to modern windows and carpet, and they come equipped with air-conditioning, small wall-mounted flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi. Upgraded rooms add mini-fridges and seating areas with loveseats and coffee tables. Many have small furnished balconies with either full or partial views of the old port. Bathrooms are spacious and sleek, done in all-white subway tile. They have pedestal sinks and small walk-in showers or shower/tub combos. There's also heated towel racks and hairdryers, but expect wall-mounted soap dispensers. 

The hotel's main feature is its rooftop terrace, with panoramic views over the city and the old port. Two sides are lined with counter-height stools facing outward to make the most of the vista, and there's a cushioned bench lounge area in one corner with a few tables and chairs scattered in between. In the middle, there's seating at a bar top, where guests bring breakfast or a bottle of wine. Another highlight is the hotel's breakfast room off the lobby, where there's a basic spread on offer for a fee. There's also a computer workstation in the lobby and a vending machine. Parking is available and pets are allowed for a fee, but Wi-Fi is free throughout.