Romantic Things to Do in Paris
Although its official nickname is the City of Lights, Paris could just as easily be called the City of Romance. With charming neighborhoods and chic cafés, picturesque and iconic landmarks that set the scene for you to be swept off your feet, and intimate dining experiences complete with sparkling champagne, a trip to Paris is the ultimate romantic getaway. We’re here to help you plan a fairytale trip, and it all starts with these romantic things to do in Paris.
Say Je T’Aime in Front of The Wall of Love
If you are in the mood for amour and you’re looking for a great place to say je t’aime — I love you — there’s no better place than Le Mur des Je T’aime in Montmartre. This 40-square-foot wall displays over 311 ways to express your feelings in 250 languages. You might notice red splashes on the wall, which represent the pieces of a broken heart and can be assembled to form a complete, whole heart. Le Mur des Je T’aime stands as a testament to the timeless language of love, inviting you to celebrate the beauty of affection in a place where emotions are expressed in every tongue. Admiring this wall is certainly one of the most romantic things to do in Paris!
Stroll Around the City
The most romantic spots in Paris are those that are steeped in history, grandeur, and beauty. In your free time, we recommend a guided or self-guided walking tour of the city to explore some of what this incredible jewel of Europe has to offer. Here are some of our absolute favorite areas of the city to visit so you can experience romance in Paris.
The Champs-Elysées
One of the most famous streets in Paris, the Champs-Elysées is a bustling boulevard in the heart of Paris, lined with iconic restaurants and high-end fashion brands. If you're visiting Paris for the first time, you must take the time to stroll along the boulevard up to the Arc de Triomphe, which is one of the city's most iconic landmarks.
Le Marais
Locals know that if you really want great shopping and restaurants, there is no better place than the Marais. This cozy neighborhood is filled with narrow streets that twist and turn, leading to incredible surprises. From chic perfumeries to bakeries to world-famous falafel restaurants, this neighborhood is one of our favorite places to visit on a romantic trip to Paris. While here, fashion lovers should pay a visit to the hidden Azzedine Alaïa Foundation to explore the stunning creations of the late great designer. Or, pop over to the Centre Pompidou to view world-class contemporary art exhibitions, featuring the likes of Georgia O'Keefe, Cy Twombly, Basquiat and so many more. For incredible views, dine on the rooftop of the museum and admire the bright pink decor and roses on every table.
Place des Vosges
This magical square embodies romance in Paris, and will transport you back in time with its symmetrical architecture and cobblestone pavements surrounded by centuries-old trees.
Montmartre
Once the red-light district and home to the Moulin Rouge, this neighborhood is now filled with charm everywhere you look. If you want a boutique hotel, this is a great place to find one. Flower-filled streets, bakeries, and some of the best views in the city make Montmartre a must-visit on our list of best romantic things to do in Paris. Be sure to make the climb up to Sacre Coeur to take in panoramic views of the entire city while you are here.
Palais Garnier
An architectural gem, the Paris Opera House is another must-visit on your romantic trip to Paris, whether you are seeing a show or just there to admire the beauty. Designed by Charles Garnier and inaugurated in 1875, this opulent building is adorned with sculptures and classical columns. Inside, you'll find a blend of marble, gold leaf, and lavish chandeliers, along with the iconic grand staircase. Stop to gaze at the stunning, colorful ceiling painted by Marc Chagall.
Tuileries Gardens
What's a visit to Paris without a walk through the chic 1st arrondissement? Whether you are visiting the Louvre, or just enjoying the beauty of the gardens with their iconic fountains, this beautiful area is not to be missed. Be sure to visit the Musée de l'Orangerie while you are here to view Monet's iconic larger-than-life Les Nymphéas (water lilies). If it's a warm day, stop at Loulou for lunch, where you will enjoy tasty pastas and pizzas al fresco.
The Left Bank
Once you're done with the stylish Right Bank, head to the other side of the river Seine, to an area once known for its artistic, bohemian energy. Visit the area of Saint-Germain-des-Prés and spend time wandering through the incredible shops. Iconic restaurants in this area include Les Deux Magots and Brasserie Lipp. If you still have more room for art, head to the Musée d'Orsay to view the best collection of Impressionist paintings in the world. It's definitely one to visit if you are a fan of famous artists like Monet, Manet, Degas, and Renoir.
A Romantic Cruise On the Seine River
One of the best ways to see the city? From the water! A romantic dinner cruise along the Seine is the best way to take in all the lights and sights of the city, and one of the most romantic things to do in Paris. Along the banks of the Seine, you'll enjoy views of the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, Notre Dame, and the Musée d'Orsay.
There are multiple tour companies, from Bateaux Parisiens to the compagnie des Bateaux Mouches that will take you through the center of Paris on a romantic river cruise. We'll advise you on the best one for your trip, providing you with a relaxing way to enjoy the city sights. If you choose to take a ride in the evening, you’ll understand why Paris is nicknamed the City of Lights. Imagine sipping on a chilled glass of champagne as you take in the landscape of illuminated trees and monuments. With over 50,000 street lights and 33 brightly lit bridges, it’s a sight you’ll never forget.
Sweet Treats
You can’t leave Paris without exploring the collection of artisanal pastries and desserts. Whether you are a croissant lover, an eclair enthusiast, or a macaron admirer – you’ll find mouthwatering treats all over the city streets of Paris.
Cedric Grolet cannot be missed. He is the undisputed master of his art one of his many accolades includes ‘Best Pastry Chef in the World 2018’ (The World’s 50 Best Restaurants). He has created a fantastical world of pastry, where even fruits are not quite as they seem. Visit at 6 Rue de Castiglione, 75001 Paris.
Pierre Hermé is a luxury pâtisserie operated by a Michelin-star chef, with five locations throughout the City of Light. It is best known for its macarons, which you can share with the person you love the most.
There’s no shortage of chocolatiers in Paris. You may choose to visit À la Mère de Famille, the oldest chocolate shop in Paris, founded in 1761. Give yourself some time to browse over 1,200 types of sweets including chocolate, marshmallows, candied fruits, and more. They may even stock some special romantic treats.
For a more modern experience, famed chocolatier, Patrick Roger, marries chocolate making with art. Stop into one of his several locations in Paris and admire the latest sculpture made entirely from chocolate!
If you prefer to sip your chocolate, Angelina is iconic for its hot chocolate. After a visit to the Louvre, stroll under the arcades of the Rue de Rivoli where you will find the dazzling tearoom. We can help you make a reservation ahead as the tearoom fills up quickly!
Romantic Dining with a View
Paris is known for its food and you'll undoubtedly find some of the best restaurants in the world in this city. You may be spoiled for choice, but to really put your culinary experiences over the top, we know the perfect place: The Eiffel Tower. This iconic symbol of Paris “sparkles” during a 5-minute light show on the hour, every hour from sundown until midnight. There are numerous places throughout the city where you can partake in this spectacle, but let us reserve your table at one of the restaurants with a direct view including Girafe, Les Ombres or le 6 New York. A gourmet dinner at one of these world-class restaurants is one of the best romantic things to do in Paris.
Day Trip: Sip Champagne in Champagne
If you're up for a day trip from Paris, we recommend the historic region of Champagne. Only an hour's train ride from the city, it’s worth visiting the city of Reims and the stunning Notre Dame de Reims Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where 33 French kings were crowned, including Louis XIV.
Clink glasses and sip some bubbly at one of the famed Champagne houses or meet some of the winemakers and walk the vineyards with them. Most places do not accept walk-ins but we can ensure you get the appointment you need at hand-selected locations.
For a memorable tasting in Reims, we recommend Ruinart, the oldest Champagne House that was founded in 1729. It is abundant with historic cellars and ancient white chalk quarries that go nearly 40 meters deep. Ruinart has been aging wine in these cellars since the late 1700s- even before the French Revolution started. Another iconic champagne house is Veuve Clicquot. Barbe-Nicole Ponsard took over her husband’s wine business when she was widowed at 27 and built it into an iconic brand. If you are interested in learning more about her story, we highly recommend reading The Widow Clicquot: The Story of a Champagne Empire and the Woman Who Ruled It.
It is well worth visiting Epernay if you want to stroll along the Avenue de Champagne, another UNESCO World Heritage site where other great names have houses including Moët & Chandon, Perrier-Jouët, Pol Roger, Mercier and G.H. Martel.
Book a private tour with us and enjoy the scenic road through the Champagne vineyards to the traditional villages of Verzenay and Verzy, Ay, Cramant and Avize. Arrive in a charming and authentic family-run estate and feel the intimacy of a private chateau run by a passionate family for generations. Or enjoy lunch at a typical champagne restaurant in the countryside, by the Marne River.
Embarking on a romantic getaway to the enchanting French capital is a dream, and at LuxEurope, we're dedicated to turning that dream into a reality. Imagine strolling along the Seine hand in hand, indulging in delectable pastries at a charming café in Montmartre, or enjoying an intimate cruise beneath the glittering lights of the Eiffel Tower. Share with us your preferred destinations, from the Louvre to Le Marais, and our expert team will craft an unforgettable and romantic holiday filled with unparalleled luxury, passion, and romance.