For a step back in time to the opulence of early 20th century Buenos Aires, look no further than the Grand Petit Hotel in the Recoleta neighborhood. The gorgeous French style hotel sits in a lovingly restored Parisian-style mansion on the corner of Azcuenaga and French streets. The old parts – original patterned wood floors, chandeliers, gigantic windows, lofty molded ceilings, and an ancient wooden elevator – lend a grandiose and nostalgic air to the place.

Ancient and slightly terrifying elevator.

The new parts – carefully chosen furniture and accents, high quality linens and towels, pristine painted walls, and of course, WiFi, means you don’t have to deal with the reality of early 20th century Buenos Aires – bugs, chamber pots, and pipe smoke-infused drapes. The hotel is tiny, with only five rooms, each slightly different.

On my second visit we stayed on the top floor, which felt like our own little castle turret looking down at the far away world below.

The room rate includes a lovely breakfast – the main floor café is filled with classical music while proper coffee and your breakfast is prepared. Yogurt and granola, hot fresh medialunas (Argentine croissants), toast with butter and homemade jam, fresh fruit, and orange juice. Everything is served by the very friendly smiling staff. You can also stop in for afternoon tea.

The room rates are an absolute steal considering the beauty and quality of this place – I cannot recommend it enough. Book online here or here.