It’s that time of the year. It’s cold and dark, the magic of Christmas is long-gone and the months feel longer than they legally should. Thankfully there is a light at the end of the tunnel: the tunnel being the Channel Tunnel and the light being Paris. Nothing quite highlights the City of Light’s close proximity to London than hopping on the Eurostar, having a glass of bubbles and a nap, and waking up just as the train glides into Gare Du Nord – all in less than two hours.
Making a Parisian adventure even more convenient is strolling across the road from the station, straight through the imposing glass doors of 25hours Hotel Terminus Nord. With its prime location, it serves as the perfect launchpad for exploring the City of Ooh La Love.
Founded in 2005 by Christoph Hoffmann, Kai Hollmann, Ardi Goldman and Stephan Gerhard, the 25hours group today operates in 15 locations across cities like Berlin, Florence, Zurich, Vienna, and Dubai. It’s a brand that prides itself on individuality, authenticity, and a very active imagination.
The second you walk into 25hours Hotel Terminus Nord this is evident. Nestled within a historic listed building, the place oozes flamboyance and a bold take on interior design. The urban oasis, with its concrete floors, reception desk reminiscent of a charming market stall, and gorgeous hotel staff all work their magic to bring a touch of je ne sais quoi to the eclectic establishment.
The brilliant minds at design agency Dreimeta are behind the concept of this Parisian gem. Their inspiration? The vibrant tapestry of the station’s surroundings and its multicultural, cosmopolitan atmosphere. As a result, you’ll encounter a delightful array of artistic elements, including lively street-art-style wall murals, vivid textiles, and various touches that pay homage to the diverse African and Asian communities that define the 10th arrondissement. It’s a fusion of creativity that truly reflects the soul of this unique neighbourhood, truly as colourful as an African Bazaar.
For a hotel that has 237 rooms, 25Hours Terminus Nord has a wonderfully boutiquey feel. There are seven different types of rooms to choose from, ranging from small to extra-large plus. Each and every room boasts its own unique blend of style and pizzazz.
From quirky fixtures, intriguing ornaments and beds resting of French wine crates to rain showers, noise-reducing windows and substantial blackout curtains, perfect for keeping the city’s hustle and bustle at arm’s length. Many rooms have their own oh-so-French balconies with gorgeous views of the Gare du Nord, Montmartre, and the Sacré Coeur. Beds are cloud nine comfy, perfect for sinking into after a day of exploring the magic Paris has to offer.
Other amenities include a generous breakfast, complete with buttery croissants, crusty breads and a lovely selection of meats and French cheese, an Israeli-Mediterranean restaurant called Neni and the rather lively Sape Bar, complete with a DJ and a barman with a heavy hand.
From 25hours Hotel Terminus Nord, a leisurely 40-minute stroll – factor in some extra time for an obligatory galette pit stop, Perrier Jouët avec des huîtres, and a spot of (window) shopping at Chanel’s flagship on Rue Cambon -takes you to the enchanting banks of the Seine River.
Along this scenic route, you’ll encounter some of Paris’ most iconic treasures like the Cathédrale Notre-Dame, the exquisite Sainte-Chapelle, Musée du Louvre, Place de la Concorde and the foodie mecca that is Marché des Enfants Rouges. If time isn’t on your side, grab one of the Schindelhauer bikes available for rent at the hotel and explore the city on two wheels.
Whichever mode of transport you prefer, all roads lead to Paris.
25hours-hotels.com/hotels/paris/terminus-nord
12 Bd de Denain, 75010 Paris, France