Hotel Review: Courtyard by Marriott Paris Gare de Lyon

The living wall of lush greenery that greets guests at the entrance of Paris’ new Courtyard by Marriott Paris Gare de Lyon is an overt symbol of the property’s recent revitalization.

This fresh, 19-story modern hotel, which opened Oct. 8, 2018, was a momentous reuse project that involved taking a long-neglected office building and transforming it into a cutting-edge destination for travelers.

The hotel’s central Paris location is ideal for both business and leisure travelers, as it is situated steps away from the Gare de Lyon train station. This major transit hub offers access to the metro as well as high-speed trains that carry passengers across France and Europe. Nearby popular attractions include the Bastille, Notre-Dame de Paris and La Promenade Plantee, a lush, elevated park. (The hotel has underground parking as well). 

Janis Milham, senior vice president and global brand leader for Marriott Classic Select Brands, says this property is exceptional.

“It’s in the best location in Paris, and it’s the first Courtyard hotel to feature this new, inspirational room design as well as our elevated food and beverage offering,” she said. “We’re excited about this prototype because it’s the first of its kind. It will evolve, and we plan to use this property as an incubator for the brand globally.”

Throughout the rooms and public spaces, the Courtyard Paris’ sophisticated design includes neutral and gray tones with splashes of bright yellow; this color palette also reflects the brilliantly hued facades along the famous Rue Cremieux pedestrian street near the hotel. There are industrial-inspired murals and steel accents that echo the train station across the street, too. 

The light-filled, airy lobby sets the tone for the Courtyard Paris, which features 249 rooms, including 64 family rooms. At about 280 square feet, family rooms are slightly larger than standard rooms and include a convertible sofa bed. 

The check-in process for my standard room was seamless thanks to the help of the friendly and enthusiastic front-desk staff. Cozy and sleek, the guestroom mirrored the hotel’s design with muted tones and pops of sunburst yellow. It featured a king bed; a small round table that could double as a desk; and soaring windows across the far wall that framed an expansive — and impressive — view of the city and, at a distance, the Eiffel Tower.

The room also contained a flat-screen television; an iron and ironing board; an instant tea kettle (with coffee and teabags); ample electrical outlets; and closet and drawer space that was suitable for my short stay. Blonde-wood accents and an open, walk-in shower outfitted the stylish gray-and-white bathroom. Although the Courtyard Paris provides standard amenities, I could have personally benefited from a make-up mirror and few additional hooks.

Most notably, the hotel prides itself on fostering a collaborative environment. The first floor is an innovative, stylish area, and includes a pool table and three co-working spaces (for up to four people each) that can be reserved in advance. Co-working is also possible in the “pods” located in Kitchen & Bar, the hotel’s ground-floor restaurant. 

Guests should expect to find Kitchen & Bar buzzing. The contemporary space offers all-day dining and provides a hip, welcoming option for those who just want to hang out, sip a coffee, eat a snack or work for a bit. The menu showcases seasonal products, enhanced with herbs grown on the property’s rooftop garden as well as ingredients from local purveyors.

Of note is the traditional French breakfast, which includes locally made breads and pastries, pain perdu (French toast), cheeses and more. Lunch and dinner feature French-inspired modern cuisine. As a bonus, the staff is able to accommodate dietary restrictions.

What’s more, the property’s fitness center is almost 560 square feet and includes state-of-the art equipment.

The Details
Courtyard by Marriott Paris Gare de Lyon
www.marriott.com