Holiday Inn Paris-Gare de L'Est

While the facade of this mid-range chain hotel is traditional, the interior is a functional mix of contemporary, simple, and traditional. The lobby has a seating area and is a bit generic, much like the other public areas, including the breakfast room and bar. Hallways may appear simple at first, but attractive film noir photographs of Paris hang in multiple corners. Despite the 2008 renovation, original stained glass windows still remain, adding depth and history to the space. Because of the great location near the Gare du Nord and Gare de l'Est train stations, many of the guests are business travelers or tourists looking for good value.

The hotel is in the 10th arrondissement, directly across from the Gare de l'Est and a five-minute walk from the Gare du Nord. Not many major tourist sights are within walking distance, but a small park called Villemin Garden is a 10-minute walk away, which also leads to the Canal St Martin. This is a nice spot for a morning jog or evening stroll. Sacré-Cœur Basilica can be reached on foot within 25 minutes. The Eiffel Tower is a 15-minute taxi ride away, to the south and across La Seine. Along the way is the Sainte-Chapelle, which is a beautiful sight for gothic-style art. It's about 20 minutes by public transport to the Carnavalet Museum, the Archaeological Crypt, the Catacombs of Paris, and Notre Dame Paris Cathedral (which are all within walking distance of each other). If walking west, the Porte Saint-Denis is 15 minutes away from the hotel. Continuing in that direction are the Domaine national du Palais Royal, the Orangerie Museum, and Champs-Élysées.The Charles de Gaulle Airport is a 30-minute car ride away.

The 200 contemporary rooms are spread throughout eight floors and are similarly designed. A brightly colored, textured wall highlights the sleep area while sections of the seating area, sheets, and remaining walls are simple white. The whiteness of the room is what allows for the number of fun characteristics without the style being too busy or overwhelming. Chairs have curvy shapes, lamp shades have fish scale patterns, and 3D wall tiles add texture to an otherwise simple space. Bathrooms are also accented with 3D wall tiles. They are clean and organized with free toiletries and hairdryers. The rooms are advertised as soundproofed, but guests have commented on traffic noise. 

This is a hotel with limited amenities. There are a computer and a printer available and free for guests to use. There are five meeting rooms that can be set up a number of ways from boardroom to classroom. In the mornings, the breakfast room serves a daily buffet with fruits, coffees, and hot items like eggs and meats. Fees apply but children eat free. A quick bite can be ordered from the lobby bar or ordered from room service.