Hotel Cujas Panthéon is unassuming and inconspicuous on most levels, but not without a degree of charm. The twin stone arches of its facade reference the 18th-century building that houses the hotel, while a rusty old-fashioned hanging lamp is also suggestive of Old Paris. Stepping inside, however, the scene is contemporary and functional with a small front desk, a single elevator, and steps that lead to a lobby lounge. Here, more evidence of the building's heritage can be seen in the exposed stone walls, while decor blends antique-style velvet furnishings with modern tiling and potted plants. The mood is quiet and unpretentious, attracting tourists who want simple and clean spaces in central Paris without unnecessary frills.

Located in the heart of the Latin Quarter in Paris' 5th arrondissement just south of the Seine, the Cujas Panthéon is excellently positioned for tourists. Set in the swanky La Sorbonne area, there's plenty to see and do within walking distance: The beautiful Luxembourg Gardens is less than 15 minutes away by foot while Ile de la Cité, featuring Notre-Dame Cathedral, is about the same travel time to the north. Luxembourg RER train station, two blocks from the hotel, connects north and south Paris and provides direct service to Charles de Gaulle and Orly airports. The nearest metro stop, a few minutes north, is Cluny - La Sorbonne.

The hotel has 48 soundproofed guest rooms, all of which are clean and decorated in an unfussy style that's characteristic of quality budget venues. Furnishings are outfitted in a decidedly neutral palette (beige comforters have an attractive leaf pattern), offset by blue or red carpeting. Bathrooms are also modern and modest, with wall-mounted hairdryers and showers or shower/tub combos. Air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs with satellite channels are all standard, and some rooms overlook a typical Parisian street. Also typical for Paris, the rooms are generally small.

As you'd expect from this caliber of hotel, there's not much in the way of facilities, though the breakfast room is an old vaulted basement dating back to the 16th century. Breakfast is a simple buffet affair and not included in room rates. Wi-Fi is available free of charge throughout the property and reception is open around the clock.