The First Hotel is situated in a Haussmann-style structure that blends in with other buildings on the street. Renovated in 2010, the hotel, designed by Laurent Mangoust, features a stark black-and-white motif. A black desk and leathery white tufted bench are in the small reception area, while a stylish lounge mixes velvety armless wingback chairs and molded cutout chairs placed around small tables. There's also a small dining area that overlooks the street with two tables on the sidewalk. The hotel draws guests from across the spectrum -- couples, families, solo travelers, business travelers, and groups of friends. 

Located south of the Eiffel Tower, the First Hotel sits on a busy street near three metro stops: Cambronne station is across the street, and La Motte-Picquet-Grenelle, a hub of three other lines, is a five-minute walk north toward the Seine. Shops, cafes, and restaurants are all within easy walking distance, and there's a bakery next door. The Eiffel Tower and the famous Rue Cler street market are less than 20 minutes away on foot, or three stops on the metro. While above-ground train tracks can make this a noisy spot, soundproof windows ensure quiet, as long as they're kept closed.

• One-minute walk to Cambronne metro station (Line 6)
• Five-minute walk to La Motte-Picquet-Grenelle metro station (Lines 6, 8, and 10)
• Seven-minute walk to UNESCO
• 18-minute walk to the Eiffel Tower
• 18-minute walk to Rue Cler street market
• 18 minutes to Arc de Triomphe via public transportation
• 20 minutes to Avenue des Champs Elysees via public transportation
• 21 minutes to Musee d’Orsay via public transportation
• 25 minutes to Musee du Louvre via public transportation
• 25 minutes to Cathedrale Notre-Dame via public transportation
• 22 minute drive to Orly Airport (without traffic)
• 35-minute drive to Charles de Gaulle Airport (without traffic)

First Hotel's guest rooms feature flashy decor -- mostly black and white -- that's chic and modern, with black accent walls and carpeting and white furniture and bedding. Molded ceiling details add a touch of classic Parisian style to the modernity. Suites may have leopard-print elements and sitting areas. Rooms are generally doubles, and are somewhat on the small side. They come with air-conditioning, soundproof windows, and blackout curtains. All rooms have desks and chairs, wardrobes, flat-screen TVs, minibars, and in-room safes. But not all rooms have coffee- and tea-making facilities. Bathrooms are compact but chic, also in black and white with rectangular sinks and stand-in showers. They include hairdryers and toiletries. Wi-Fi is free, room service is available 24-hours, and housekeeping comes daily. Some rooms have views of the Eiffel Tower (for a higher rate), while others face the metro station. Those facing the metro can be noisy when the windows are open.

Beyond its high style, there aren't many extras at the First Hotel. It has a chic lounge and a small restaurant with two sidewalk tables open during the week. Breakfast is served, but it's not included in the room rate. Room service is available 24-hours a day. The hotel will arrange airport shuttle service and parking. Room add-ons include macarons and Champagne on arrival, a box of French gastronomic goodies, roses, and yes, a Lovebox, or "sensual pleasure chest dedicated to igniting passion in couples."Dry cleaning and laundry service are available, and free daily newspapers can be found in the lobby. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel.