Fodor's Expert Review Hôtel de la Mirande

A romantic's dream of a hotel, this petit palais permits you to step into 18th-century Avignon---complete with painted coffered ceilings, precious antiques, extraordinary handmade wall coverings, and beautiful Asian rugs. Other superb grand siècle touches include the sisal mats on the floors; they were the height of chic back in the Baroque era. Guest rooms—most with views of the palace—are both gorgeous and comfy, with extraordinary marble baths. Six stunning rooms in a separate building in the garden are lavishly decorated in the Empire style. The central lounge is a skylighted and jazz-warmed haven, while the costume-drama dining room is the perfect setting for the restaurant's sophisticated cuisine, one of the best in Avignon under chef Florent Pietravalle.