Though the Relais Christine has been operating since 1979, the property itself is much older, with a legacy going back to the 17th century, and in some aspects even further. The townhouse was originally built sometime in the 1600s, likely soon after Rue Christine and the Pont Neuf were completed. The namesake of the street, and by consequence the hotel's, was Princess Christine de France, daughter of King Henry IV and Marie de'Medici. The townhouse itself was built atop the remnants of the Saint-Denis College of the Grands-Augustins Abbey, which was built all the way back in 1231. In 1898, the Parisian architect Georges Eugène Debrie would give the front building's facade a makeover.

The property remained a typical townhouse until it was purchased by Olivier Bertrand in 1979 and opened it as a hotel. Olivier is a member of the esteemed Bertrand family and leads Groupe Bertrand, a widely known restaurant and hospitality brand in France. These include Relais Christine's sister properties, Saint James Paris and Hotel Balzac Paris. Later, he would commission the famous architect and designer Laura Gonzales to transform the hotel into a luxurious establishment. The renovations were finished in 2017, and ever since, Relais Christine has become a discreet oasis for the elite, hidden in the historic streets of Central Paris.

Design and Architecture

Relais Christine underwent major renovations in the mid-2010s, with the project led by Laura Gonzales, a famed celebrity architect and designer. She envisioned a boutique hotel that blends French elegance and opulence with a contemporary flair. Inspired by the property's and the neighborhood's history, she decorated its interiors with antiques from native Parisian shops and crafters. She also called on brands such as Pierre Frey and Braquenié to provide fabrics and wallpapers to create a distinct aristocratic vibe in line with Paris's glory days. Materials such as brass and marble were also added as embellishments, further emphasizing the luxurious atmosphere.

Laura ensured to honor the townhouse's history by integrating many classic features into the new facilities. The hotel's signature Guerlain Spa was built underground, using the remnants of the Augustinian abbey to create a mystical grotto-like atmosphere. She also applied this to the hotel's exterior, where she turned the courtyard and facade into a verdant urban garden with carefully maintained vine-covered trellises and shrubbery.

Despite its design and heritage, Relais Christine is able to provide accessibility for guests with mobility impairments. They have dedicated accessibility rooms with a roll-in shower and bathroom grab-on railings.

Breakfast

A selection of lovely and energizing breakfasts awaits you every morning at Relais Christine. You can order it a la carte, mixing and matching items you'd like to have, or select from one of their offered breakfast packages.

For a fee of 40 EUR (45 USD), you can enjoy a buffet breakfast, served in the lounge from 7 am until 11 am. Alternatively, you can avail of a continental breakfast for 32 EUR (36 USD), which comes with a baker's basket of fresh bread, jams, and honey, as well as your choice of juice and hot beverages. If you only need a quick bite to eat before heading off for the day, the hotel also has a Parisian breakfast with a hot beverage and a baguette and bread roll to be enjoyed with jam and honey, all for 15 EUR (17 USD).

Paris is known as the City of Love and Lights, and Relais Christine will help turn your holiday into an impeccable and memorable trip. Their concierge is open to assist you in booking car rentals, train rides, and flights. Moreover, they can get in touch with travel companies on your behalf, helping you get skip-the-line tickets. These can be for events such as festivals and concerts, as well as access to attractions such as the Louvre Museum or the Versailles Palace. They will also be happy to assist with making reservations for restaurants. You should also take a look at their special tour packages prepared with a Mercedes-Benz car service, letting you visit Paris's many iconic landmarks and attractions in style.