Hôtel des Académies et des Arts

Inspired by Montparnasse (a five-minute walk away) in the 1920s, this avant-garde address features the distinctive signature of French street artist Jérôme Mesnager whose impish white figures back-flip up walls, scale stairs and dance above fireplaces – ride the elevator to the 5th floor for the ultimate acrobatic performance. Outside high season, prices drop to midrange levels. Rates generally include breakfast.