Helvetia

Very convenient for an early train from the Gare du Lyon. Clean and reasonably spacious for the price.

Excellent location, excellent staff, excellent housekeeping. The only reason I did not give an excellent overall is because the wifi was intermittent and unreliable, and I had to descend from the 6th floor to the reception area to read my mail, and research activities in Paris.

Helvetia could pose problems for persons with limited mobility, particularly with respect to the position of the elevator on the winding stairs. The coffee machine seems to be a bit unpredictable. All else is perfectly OK; staff are friendly and helpful.

My husband and I and our adult son stayed a total of 3 nights . We had expected the room to be small but it was clean . I had brought my hair dryer just in case. They were happy to provide hot water if required (I had brought along a couple of insulated mugs on out trip). There was a small lift which stopped between floors on the curved staircase and we were informed of this. I had read on this from previous reviews so I had expected it.The hotel is very close to the Gare de Lyon station and if you see Novotel you will find it near it. We had taken the RER Line D at Gare Du Nord to Gare de Lyon however I think it worthwhile to use a taxi considering how packed it was at 2 pm ( and maybe even at other times as well ). Having our suitcases didn't help but people in the train didn't seem to want to move their positions to make space for others.The location was great as it was only minutes to catch the early train to Milan our next stop. Jurgen at reception recommended a meal at L' Arrosoir and it was good. Our dinner of sea bream, lamb shanks and steak (300g) came to 56 euros. There was no charge for water or bread . The bakery on the right after the exit is fantastic and we had our breakfast sitting at the bench there. Pity it was not opened on the Sunday and we left so early for Milan.

Good room, unfortunately some people arrive after 11pm and make a noise. Sometimes it is just the rattling of the keys. No noise from the road, with the windows shut.