16 Jan

The Ritz Paris: A Timeless Icon of Luxury, History, and Glamour

“It’s a social theatre, a movie set, a bar where the world remakes itself, the soul of the avant-garde, a discreet refuge. The home of inspired gastronomy, a island of nature, forum for artists and celebrities, historical jewel, Proust’s madeleine, haute-couture catwalk, a dreamlike life… Since its opening, the Ritz Paris has lived a thousand lives, reinventing itself day after day to continue to seduce, surprise and enchant the world.”

Nestled in the heart of Paris on the prestigious Place Vendôme, the Ritz Paris stands as one of the most iconic and luxurious hotels in the world. Since its opening in 1898, the Ritz has been synonymous with elegance, exclusivity, and an unparalleled standard of hospitality. Founded by Swiss hotelier César Ritz, the hotel was designed to embody his revolutionary vision: “a hotel like a private home,” offering guests ultimate comfort and discretion.

A History of Grandeur

The Ritz Paris occupies an 18th-century mansion, which was transformed into a hotel under the guidance of César Ritz and chef Auguste Escoffier. From the start, it became a haven for royalty, aristocrats, and luminaries of the time. Coco Chanel, who called the Ritz home for over 30 years, epitomized the close relationship between the hotel and haute couture. Writers like Ernest Hemingway and Marcel Proust were frequent guests, with Hemingway famously declaring, “When I dream of afterlife in heaven, the action always takes place at the Ritz Paris.”

During World War II, the Ritz was requisitioned by the Nazis, with high-ranking officers taking residence there. Post-war, the hotel reclaimed its reputation as a symbol of Parisian sophistication. A significant renovation in 2012-2016 ensured the Ritz retained its historic charm while embracing modern luxury.

A Star-Studded Legacy

The Ritz Paris has long been a magnet for celebrities, from Hollywood stars to fashion icons. Audrey Hepburn, Grace Kelly, and Marlene Dietrich were among the many famous faces who graced its opulent halls. In recent decades, it has remained a preferred destination for A-listers such as Beyoncé, Naomi Campbell, and Nicole Kidman.

The hotel’s connection to fashion is unparalleled. Karl Lagerfeld hosted Chanel runway shows at the Ritz, while many designers and brands draw inspiration from its timeless interiors. The Ritz’s Escoffier-inspired cuisine and its Hemingway Bar continue to attract the crème de la crème of the fashion and entertainment worlds.

An Enduring Symbol of Parisian Elegance

Today, the Ritz Paris offers 142 rooms and suites, each blending historic charm with modern refinement. From the opulent Imperial Suite to the serene gardens and the world-renowned Ritz Club and Spa, every corner of the hotel is a testament to luxury. Its enduring legacy and allure make it not only a hotel but a symbol of Paris itself—where history, fashion, and glamour converge.