Holiday Inn Express Paris - Canal de la Villette by IHG

This three-star IHG hotel sits on the banks of the Canal de la Villette in Paris's 19th arrondissement, offering functional accommodation with a free daily breakfast. Reviewers frequently praise the welcoming, multilingual front desk staff and the excellent transport links. However, recurring issues with the climate control systems and street noise from the ground-floor bar terrace can detract from the experience.

Best for

• Families with children — The hotel offers spacious family rooms measuring 25 square metres that can comfortably accommodate up to four people.
• Motoring tourists — The property features a secure underground car park equipped with electric vehicle charging stations.
• Practical explorers — With two metro stations just a short walk away, guests can easily reach central Paris attractions like the Louvre in 20 to 30 minutes.

Not ideal for

• Light sleepers — Street noise from the ground-floor bar terrace and the canal embankment can disrupt sleep, especially if windows are kept open.
• Amenity-focused travellers — Standard rooms lack basic in-room conveniences such as mini-fridges, safes, bathrobes, and slippers.

Rating breakdown

• A-Location — Set in a lively residential area right by the canal, with excellent metro links and walking routes, though some marginal characters are present in the evening.
• B-Rooms — Beds are comfortable and family rooms are spacious, but some rooms show worn furniture and carpet stains, and there are no mini-fridges or safes.
• B+Service — The front desk team is highly praised for friendliness and multilingual skills, though resolving technical issues can drag on during weekends.
• BDining — A tasty, included continental breakfast buffet features fresh croissants, though the menu is repetitive and the breakfast room gets crowded.
• B+Facilities — Features a pleasant second-floor terrace with water views, reliable free Wi-Fi, and secure underground parking, though parking fees are high.
• BValue — Offers a reasonable price for Paris with breakfast included, though guests should budget for high parking fees and tourist taxes.

Verdict

This hotel is a practical and sensible choice for families and budget-conscious travellers who want easy metro access and a scenic canal-side setting. It is less suited to those who require absolute quiet at night or who cannot manage without an in-room fridge and reliable climate control.