How to find budget hotels in Paris

So, on to Paris, the real home of small family style hotels. First on the list was The Aviatic, well positioned at 15 Rue de Vaugirard on the left bank close to the Montparnasse Station and central St Germain. The 43 rooms here have all been completely renovated and the person responsible deserves a gold medal. His or her work is a benchmark for small hotel operators. Despite the small size of the rooms, everything is just about perfect - from decor to lighting and the bathroom although I would have eliminated the bath. Breakfast is fine along with the reception staff. The best news is this property usually has a special deal going – check the website.

Hotel Millesime

Next we have the Hotel Millesime, again on the left bank at 15 Rue Jacob, a short walk from the Notre-Dame and a pleasant stroll along the River Seine embankment to The Louvre, Concorde Square and beyond. This property is very cute - housed in an ancient building that was a monastery. The rooms are quite big by Paris standards, reception very helpful, the lift big enough for two but the property it is a little tired and you wouldn't want a room by the lift. I am informed that this hotel is currently undergoing a complete restoration so check the website for details.

It certainly was the best value but The Hotel Choiseul Opera had me worried – just 69 euro a night – breakfast an extra 13. I walked to 1 rue Daunou – the hotel is well located close to the Opera House, shopping, bars (including Hemingway favourite, Harry’s Bar) and restaurants. The receptionist was charming and I was soon heading to the second floor and room 206. The lift is small even by Paris standards – just room for me followed by my faithful old Air Canada suitcase. Despite my misgivings the room was fine with a well stacked minibar, small desk with three power points, comfy queen size bed with a lighting master switch either side. The goodies included air conditioning, heated towel rail, full length mirror, safe at face level to make its use simple and an excellent shower. Soap and shampoo were provided. Free wifi and a new Philips TV completed the package. Breakfast in the morning with the hotel cat watching on was delicious and filling.

Lounge - Hotel Cordelia

Last but by no means least, again in the Opera district, is the very delightful Cordelia Hotel, 11 rue de Greffuhle. I spent a night here and enjoyed it so much I have made a new booking for later this year. As well as very comfortable and well equipped rooms there is a delightful lounge and bar on the ground floor.

If you want to jump up a star, look at the Concorde Opera now operated by Hilton which features one of the most beautiful foyers in Paris - now used as a bar as well as a lounge. This hotel was originally linked to the railway station next door and was the darling on trans Atlantic travellers. The Victorian era rooms are huge with high ceilings and Hilton is slowly renovating each one one with a new look and in particular beautiful bathrooms. The renovations should be completed by the start of the European summer but check – nothing worse than waking up to the tune of a jackhammer. Opera is a great location by the way if you love shopping with Printemps and Galeries Lafayette usually only a walk away from your hotel.Another elegant hotel in Paris to look at if you want to go really upmarket is the Victoria Palace Hotel, 6, rue Blaise Desgoffe. So there you have it. Spend your money on a hotel room - or on touring/shopping.