Making plans for Valentine’s Day? The luxurious, 5-star Hotel Der Sers is reason to put Paris on the top of your destination list. Close to the Champs Elysees in the romantic City of Light’s center, the hotel was once the private villa of the Marquis der Sers, and was designed by Jules Pellechet with an entrance that allowed horse-drawn carriages to deliver the Marquis and his guests directly to the wide staircase leading to the building’s upper floors. The carriageway is now a hallway leading to the dining space, while an internal courtyard — once a stable area — now serves as a winter garden and summer event space.

In 1935, the mansion was retrofitted as a hotel that would serve as an intimate, home-away-from home for discerning guests. Bold colors and modern furniture with a distinct Scandinavian vibe are enhanced by bursts of color from an abundance of fresh flowers. At the top of the stairs, a fabulous Baccarat chandelier lights the Baccarat Hall. Rooms have all the expected modern touches including iPads, flat-screen televisions and complimentary WiFi, while Panoramic Suites offer all that plus heart-stopping views of the city. Plan an extended stay in the private apartment, encompassing the entire seventh floor, complete with two outdoor terraces.