50 Romantic Things to Do in Paris for Couples
Paris isn’t called the “City of Love” for nothing! Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary, planning a honeymoon, or simply enjoying a romantic getaway, Paris offers countless opportunities for couples to create unforgettable memories together. Here’s my ultimate guide to 50 romantic things to do in Paris.
Watch the Eiffel Tower Sparkle at Night
Trust me on this one—skip the daytime crowds. The real magic happens after dark when La Tour Eiffel starts to sparkle. Every hour, on the hour, for five minutes after sunset until 1 AM. I’ve seen it hundreds of times, and it still takes my breath away. Find a quiet spot on Champ de Mars with a bottle of wine. The twinkle starts, couples gasp, and suddenly everyone falls silent. Pure Paris magic.
Location: Champ de Mars, 5 Avenue Anatole France, 75007
Insider Tip: The 11 PM show typically has fewer tourists. For the best viewing spot without crowds, try the small park Champ de Mars-Tour Eiffel RER station.
Take a Sunset Seine River Cruise
I’ve done these Seine river cruises with my wife, friends, and parents! The smaller boats are worth the extra euros—trust me. As the sun dips behind the Eiffel Tower, the monuments begin to glow, and Paris transforms. It’s when even jaded Parisians (like some of my old colleagues) admit the city deserves its romantic reputation. The Seine at sunset shows you why poets have been swooning over this view for centuries.
Location: Multiple boarding points - Pont de l'Alma or near Notre Dame
Insider Tip: Book a cruise between 8-9 PM in summer for perfect lighting. The Vedettes du Pont Neuf boats are smaller and less crowded than the big Bateaux Mouches.
Picnic in Luxembourg Gardens
The Jardin du Luxembourg isn’t just a pretty park—it’s Paris’s gorgeous outdoor living room. I’ve spent countless Sunday afternoons here watching senators from the nearby parliament playing intense pétanque matches. Grab provisions from the nearby shops on Rue de Tournon, find a pair of the iconic green metal chairs, and watch Parisian life unfold. The light through the chestnut trees makes everyone look impossibly photogenic.
Location: 6th arrondissement, main entrance at 15 Rue de Vaugirard
Insider Tip: The southwest corner near the orchard has fewer visitors. Stop at Gérard Mulot bakery (6 Rue du Four) beforehand for the best picnic supplies.
Climb to the Top of Arc de Triomphe at Sunset
Skip the Eiffel Tower crowds and head here instead! I’ve watched the sunset from lots of Paris monuments, but this remains my favorite. The 360° view lets you see the perfect symmetry of Haussmann’s boulevards radiating outward like a star. As twilight falls, the Eiffel Tower lights up, and you can see the endless stream of car lights creating rivers of light below. It’s breathtaking—and much less packed than other viewpoints.
Location: Place Charles de Gaulle, 75008
Insider Tip: Arrive 45 minutes before sunset to get through security with time to spare. Take the underpass to access it—never try crossing the roundabout!
Share a Kiss on Pont des Arts
Yes, they removed the love locks (thank goodness—they were damaging this beautiful structure), but this pedestrian bridge between the Louvre and Institut de France remains incredibly romantic. Here you can watch street musicians play as the boats pass below. The perspective of the Seine from here—with Île de la Cité in the distance—hasn’t changed in centuries. It’s old Paris at its finest.
Location: Pont des Arts, between the 1st and 6th arrondissements
Insider Tip: Visit at sunset on weekdays to avoid crowds. The middle section offers the best views and photo opportunities.
Stroll Hand-in-Hand Along the Seine
The Seine’s UNESCO-protected banks are Paris’s lifeline. I walk them whenever I need to fall in love with the city again. The lower quays near Île Saint-Louis offer a peaceful retreat where you can dangle your feet above the water. Watch for the bouquinistes (those iconic green bookstalls) opening their boxes—it’s like a treasure hunt.
Location: Quai de la Tournelle to Quai des Tuileries offers the most scenic stretch
Insider Tip: The newly pedestrianized Left Bank between Musée d'Orsay and Pont de l'Alma has fewer tourists and lovely floating gardens.
Visit the Wall of Love in Montmartre
Le Mur des Je t’aime isn’t the flashiest Paris monument, but it’s one of the most meaningful. This blue wall features “I love you” written in 311 languages and dialects. I stumbled upon it years ago while lost in Montmartre and found couples from all over the world searching for their native language. It’s a beautiful reminder that love truly is a universal language. The small park around it makes for a perfect place to sit quietly together.
Location: Square Jehan Rictus, Place des Abbesses, 75018
Insider Tip: Visit early morning before the tourist groups arrive. The nearby Café des Deux Moulins (from the film Amélie) makes a perfect follow-up stop.
Enjoy a Dinner Cruise on the Seine
You’ll pay more for the experience, but some splurges are worth it. I’ve tried most of the dinner cruises over the years, and they’re not all created equal. The smaller boats offer more intimacy and better food. There’s something magical about floating past Notre-Dame while sharing dessert. The city becomes a moving backdrop to your meal—and you’ll see monuments from angles impossible to view from land.
Location: Most depart from Port de la Conférence or near the Eiffel Tower
Insider Tip: Book Ducasse sur Seine for the best food quality, or Yacht de Paris for a more intimate experience. Request a window table when booking.
Watch the Sunset from Sacré-Cœur
The gleaming white basilica is stunning, but the view will leave you speechless. As the city turns golden, then pink, then twinkles with lights, you understand why artists have been drawn to Montmartre for centuries. Ignore the tourist traps and focus on that panorama—there’s not another like it in the world.
Location: Parvis du Sacré-Cœur, 75018
Insider Tip: Skip the crowded main steps and instead find a spot on the lawns to the left of the basilica. Bring a small picnic blanket and arrive 30 minutes before sunset.
Take in the View from Galeries Lafayette Rooftop
This secret spot gives you million-euro views without spending a centime! I first discovered it years ago when looking for a quiet escape from shopping chaos. Take the escalators to the top floor, then follow signs to the roof terrace. The 360° view showcases Opera Garnier, the Eiffel Tower, and Montmartre. Even better? You can bring your own drinks and snacks. It’s my go-to spot for introducing friends to Paris from above.
Location: Galeries Lafayette, 40 Boulevard Haussmann, 75009
Insider Tip: Visit on weekday mornings to avoid crowds. In summer, there's often a small rooftop bar, but you can bring your own refreshments year-round.
Dine at a Cozy Bistro in Le Marais
Le Marais has transformed dramatically since I first lived in Paris, but its historic bistros remain magical. These tiny establishments, often family-run for generations, capture the soul of Parisian dining. Nothing beats candlelight flickering against centuries-old stone walls while sharing a perfect chocolate mousse.
Location: Try Chez Janou, 2 Rue Roger Verlomme, 75003
Insider Tip: Reserve several days ahead and request a corner table. Many Marais restaurants are closed Mondays; Saturday night is bustling with locals.
Take a French Cooking Class Together
Kneading bread dough, stirring sauces, sipping wine—cooking classes make surprisingly romantic dates. There’s something intimate about creating something delicious together. The best classes include market shopping beforehand, where you’ll learn to select ingredients like a true Parisian. And you’ll take home skills that will bring Paris to your kitchen for years to come.
Location: La Cuisine Paris, 80 Quai de l'Hôtel de Ville, 75004
Insider Tip: Morning market classes provide the most authentic experience. Book the macaron class if you want something shorter and sweeter.
Have Lunch at a Restaurant in the Eiffel Tower
I was skeptical about tower dining for years—tourist trap alert!—until a French friend insisted on taking me to Madame Brasserie. Wow, was I wrong. Chef Thierry Marx has created something special. Yes, you’re paying for the view, but the seasonal menu genuinely impresses. The elevator whisks you above the crowds, and suddenly you’re floating above Paris with champagne in hand. It’s touristy but transcendent—and the elevator ticket is included with your meal.
Location: Madame Brasserie (1st floor) or Jules Verne (2nd floor)
Insider Tip: Book Jules Verne for dinner and Madame Brasserie for lunch. Reserve months in advance and request a window table. The lunch prix-fixe is more affordable.
Visit a Patisserie Workshop
Making pastries might sound like an odd date, but it’s endlessly entertaining. I’ve seen serious businessmen giggling like schoolchildren while piping cream puffs. These workshops reveal the precision behind French patisserie—and give you skills to impress at home. Most classes include wine, making the experience even more fun as you go along. Plus, you’ll take home your creations to enjoy later.
Location: Le Foodist, 59 Rue du Cardinal Lemoine, 75005
Insider Tip: Choose macaron or éclair classes for beginner-friendly options. Book at least two weeks ahead and arrive hungry!
Enjoy Wine Tasting in Paris
Skip the tourist traps and find authentic wine experiences instead. The best tastings tell stories about regions, producers, and traditions. You’ll sip from small producers you’d never discover otherwise, often paired with perfect cheese selections. It’s an education for your palate—and there’s something inherently romantic about sharing excellent wine.
Location: Ô Chateau, 68 Rue Jean-Jacques Rousseau, 75001
Insider Tip: Book their "Introduction to French Wine" for broad exposure or "Champagne Tasting" for something festive. Sessions in the historic cellar are more atmospheric.
Splurge on a Michelin-Star Dining Experience
Paris invented fine dining, and a meal at a starred restaurant creates memories for a lifetime. I’ll never forget my first three-star experience—three hours of culinary theater that left me speechless. Young chef Julia Sedefdjian at Baieta brings Mediterranean brightness to classic French techniques. Her youth and creativity make the experience feel fresh, not stuffy. The tasting menu with wine pairings is worth every euro for a special occasion.
Location: Baieta, 5 Rue de Pontoise, 75005
Insider Tip: Book lunch instead of dinner for similar quality at lower prices. Request the chef's table for special occasions—mention it's a celebration when booking.
Create a DIY Food Tour
Paris food tours have gotten expensive, but it’s easy to craft your own. Start with croissants from award-winning Du Pain et des Idées, sample cheeses at Barthélémy, try chocolate at Jacques Genin, and finish with wine at Le Baron Rouge. Moving between tastings gives you time to build an appetite and see different neighborhoods. It’s like multiple dates in one day!
Location: Best areas: Marais, Saint-Germain-des-Prés, or Rue des Martyrs
Insider Tip: Focus on a single neighborhood to minimize walking. Buy a small notebook to jot down favorites so you can find them again on your next Paris trip.
Have a Champagne Picnic by the Eiffel Tower
This might sound cliché, but it’s a classic for good reason. I’ve had some of my most memorable Paris moments with nothing more than a blanket, baguette, and bottle of bubbly on the Champ de Mars. The lawns facing the Eiffel Tower create the perfect backdrop for lazy afternoon conversations. If you go on weekdays, you’ll find plenty of space to spread out away from crowds. When the tower sparkles on the hour after dark—pure magic.
Location: Champ de Mars, 75007
Insider Tip: The northeastern corner has more trees for shade. Pick up supplies at Rue Cler market street nearby. Plastic cups are banned, so bring proper glasses.
Visit a Chocolate Shop for a Tasting
Paris chocolate shops are temples of indulgence. Start with a hot chocolate at Angelina (thick enough to stand your spoon in!), then sample single-origin bars at Chocolat Chapon. The real magic happens at Jacques Genin, where caramels and pâtes de fruits are life-changing. Go beyond basic tastings and ask about the terroir of each chocolate—fascinating stuff!
Location: Jacques Genin, 133 Rue de Turenne, 75003
Insider Tip: Visit between 2-4 PM when shops are quieter. At Genin, ask to pair chocolates with their housemade fruit jellies for contrasting flavors.
Morning Coffee at a Classic Parisian Café
Nothing beats claiming a sidewalk table at a historic café as Paris wakes up. My favorite morning ritual has been watching the neighborhood come to life over perfect café crème. Locals on their way to work, delivery trucks bringing fresh produce to restaurants, shopkeepers washing their storefronts—it’s everyday Paris at its authentic best. Skip the famous tourist cafés and find neighborhood gems instead.
Location: Café de Flore, 172 Boulevard Saint-Germain, 75006
Insider Tip: Even famous cafés are peaceful before 9 AM. Order at the counter for lower prices, or pay extra for table service and hours of people-watching.
Visit Musée de l’Orangerie Together
This hidden gem houses Monet’s water lily masterpieces in two oval rooms designed by the artist himself. The space creates a remarkably intimate experience—visitors naturally speak in hushed tones, making it feel like Monet created this immersive artwork just for the two of you. It’s powerful, peaceful, and profoundly moving.
Location: Jardin des Tuileries, 75001
Insider Tip: Visit first thing in the morning or the last hour before closing to have the oval rooms nearly to yourselves. The basement collection of Impressionist works is often overlooked but fantastic.
Explore the Louvre After Hours
Forget battling selfie sticks around the Mona Lisa—the Louvre transforms on Wednesday and Friday evenings. The lighting creates an intimate atmosphere, and you’ll discover masterpieces without crowds. My favorite route takes you from Ancient Egypt through the Renaissance apartments to the Apollo Gallery—you’ll have priceless art all to yourselves.
Location: Musée du Louvre, Rue de Rivoli, 75001
Insider Tip: Enter through the Carrousel du Louvre shopping mall entrance for shorter security lines. Head directly to the Richelieu Wing for the quietest galleries.
Attend a Performance at Palais Garnier
This opulent opera house is a monument to excess—and I mean that as high praise. Designed as a palace for the performing arts, it drips with gold leaf, velvet, and marble. The ceiling painted by Chagall contrasts beautifully with the 19th-century grandeur. The champagne bar at intermission is a must—people-watching paradise.
Location: Place de l'Opéra, 75009
Insider Tip: Take the self-guided tour during the day before seeing a performance. For the best value tickets, call the box office directly instead of booking online.
Discover Rodin’s Sculptures at Musée Rodin
This museum hits the perfect romantic note—passionate art in a gorgeous setting. I bring every visitor here because it never disappoints. The 18th-century mansion and gardens showcase Rodin’s powerful works, including his famous sculpture “The Kiss.” On summer evenings, the garden stays open late, creating the perfect atmosphere for contemplating art and whispering sweet nothings. The roses in bloom add to the sensory experience.
Location: 77 Rue de Varenne, 75007
Insider Tip: The garden alone is worth the entrance fee. Come late afternoon and stay until closing time—the changing light on the bronze sculptures is spectacular.
Take in a Jazz Show in a Historic Cellar
Paris and jazz have a love affair dating back to the 1920s. Hidden below the medieval streets of the Latin Quarter, tiny clubs have hosted legends for decades. The crowd is always a mix of locals and visitors swaying to the music. Dancing is encouraged, even if you have no idea what you’re doing!
Location: Le Caveau de la Huchette, 5 Rue de la Huchette, 75005
Insider Tip: Arrive early (9 PM) to get a good table. Skip weekend nights which get extremely crowded. Monday and Tuesday often feature local musicians and fewer tourists.
Visit Montmartre’s Artists’ Square
Place du Tertre still captures the bohemian spirit of old Paris, especially early morning before tour groups arrive. Yes, it’s touristy, but there’s genuine talent mixed among the souvenir sketchers. Having a portrait drawn together creates a unique souvenir—I still smile at the caricature an artist drew of me fifteen years ago—pure happiness captured on paper.
Location: Place du Tertre, 75018
Insider Tip: Visit before 10 AM when artists are just setting up. Take time to look at different styles and negotiate the price before sitting for a portrait.
Attend a Classical Concert in Sainte-Chapelle
This medieval jewel box of stained glass creates an absolutely magical setting for music. As the sun sets and the 15 towering stained glass windows begin to glow, the musicians play Vivaldi or Bach. The acoustics are extraordinary, but it’s the combination of music and medieval beauty that makes it transcendent—pure soul-stirring romance.
Location: 8 Boulevard du Palais, 75001
Insider Tip: Book front-row balcony seats for the best view of the stained glass. Arrive 30 minutes early to enjoy the chapel before the concert crowd arrives.
Explore the Romantic Museum (Musée de la Vie Romantique)
This charming house museum tucked away in a quiet corner of Paris feels like stepping into another era. It’s one of my favorite hidden gems and one of the best free things to do in Paris. Dedicated to the Romantic movement, it was once the home of painter Ary Scheffer, who hosted Chopin, George Sand, and other artists here. The small garden tearoom makes a perfect spot for quiet conversation, surrounded by roses and lilacs in spring.
Location: 16 Rue Chaptal, 75009
Insider Tip: Visit on weekday mornings when you might have the place entirely to yourselves. The garden café is only open in good weather—one of Paris's most peaceful spots.
See a Film at a Historic Cinema
Paris preserves its historic movie houses with passionate devotion. Le Grand Rex, with its Art Deco starry ceiling, feels like stepping into 1930s Paris. La Pagode, a former Japanese pagoda, might be the most unusual cinema in Europe. These places turn simple movie-watching into a romantic event.
Location: Le Grand Rex, 1 Boulevard Poissonnière, 75002
Insider Tip: Check if the film is "VF" (dubbed in French) or "VO" (original version with subtitles). Evening screenings at Le Grand Rex often feature the stunning ceiling light show before the film.
Visit Louis Vuitton Foundation
Frank Gehry’s architectural marvel stands like a glass ship ready to sail away from Paris. The contemporary art inside changes regularly, but it’s the building itself that steals the show—light plays through the glass “sails” throughout the day. The upper terraces offer spectacular views across the Bois de Boulogne. It’s modern, ambitious, and endlessly photogenic.
Location: 8 Avenue du Mahatma Gandhi, 75116
Insider Tip: Visit late afternoon when the setting sun illuminates the glass structure. Book tickets online to avoid the queue. The outdoor reflecting pools are perfect for creative photos together.
Row a Boat in Bois de Vincennes
This massive park on the eastern edge of Paris feels worlds away from urban life. You can rent a rowboat by the hour and explore the lake’s islands and hidden corners. Pack a small picnic to enjoy on the water. The surrounding woodland paths are perfect for a post-rowing stroll. It’s old-fashioned romance at its finest.
Location: Lac Daumesnil, Route de la Ceinture du Lac Daumesnil, 75012
Insider Tip: Go on weekday afternoons when the lake is nearly empty. Boat rental costs about €15/hour. The best spot for picnicking is the small temple on the island in the middle.
Stroll La Coulée Verte René-Dumont
This elevated garden walkway was built on an old railway line long before New York’s High Line existed. I’ve watched it evolve from a local secret to a beloved green space. Walking the 4.5 km path takes you above the streets, through tunnels, and alongside beautiful plantings. It offers unique perspectives of everyday Paris neighborhoods. If you’ve seen the film “Before Sunset,” you’ll recognize it from a pivotal walking scene.
Location: Access at 44-46 Rue de Lyon, 75012
Insider Tip: The Bastille entrance has stairs, but there's an elevator at the Reuilly entrance. Visit on weekday mornings for the most peaceful experience.
Explore the Covered Passages
These 19th-century glass-roofed shopping arcades are among my favorite Paris discoveries. Each passage has its own character—Galerie Vivienne with its mosaic floors and upscale shops, Passage des Panoramas with vintage stamp dealers and cozy restaurants. They’re romantic shelters from modern Paris, perfect for pretending you’ve stepped back to the Belle Époque.
Location: Start with Galerie Vivienne, 4 Rue des Petits Champs, 75002
Insider Tip: Visit Passage des Panoramas around lunch for the best atmosphere. Chocolat Stern in Passage Jouffroy makes excellent hot chocolate for cold days.
Visit Square des Peupliers
The first time I stumbled upon this tiny circular street, I thought I’d wandered off the Paris map completely. This hidden gem in the 13th arrondissement feels more like a village than a city street. The curved row of charming houses with their colorful shutters creates a fairy-tale setting. I’ve brought exactly two people here—it’s that special. The perfect spot for stolen kisses away from tourist Paris.
Location: Square des Peupliers, 75013
Insider Tip: Combine with the nearby Butte-aux-Cailles neighborhood for a lovely afternoon off the tourist path. The narrow entrance is easy to miss—look for it on Rue de la Colonie.
Sunrise at Trocadéro
Of all the great Paris sunrises, this remains my favorite. At 6 AM, when tour buses are still hours away, Trocadéro belongs to photographers, joggers, and lovers. The morning light hits the Eiffel Tower just right, turning it golden against the pink sky. I’ve watched couples get engaged here countless times—something magical happens in that space between night and day. Bring coffee in a thermos and simply breathe it all in.
Location: Place du Trocadéro et du 11 Novembre, 75016
Insider Tip: Arrive 30 minutes before official sunrise time. The lower platform has fewer early birds. In summer, you'll need to arrive by 5:30 AM for the best light.
Explore Canal Saint-Martin
This canal neighborhood has transformed dramatically over my time in Paris—from working-class afterthought to hipster heaven. But its charm remains unchanged. Iron footbridges arch over the water, locals play pétanque along the banks, and barges still navigate through the old locks. I love watching the mechanical bridges rise to let boats through—a rare glimpse of industrial Paris. Grab pastries from Du Pain et des Idées and find a spot to dangle your feet over the water.
Location: Quai de Valmy or Quai de Jemmapes, 75010
Insider Tip: Sunday afternoons bring local musicians performing informally along the banks. The stretch between République and Jaurès metro stations is most charming.
Find Cherry Blossoms in Spring
Paris bursts into pink for exactly two magical weeks each spring. Square Gabriel-Pierné creates a perfect pink canopy for lovers, while the cherry trees along Mail de Bièvre form a tunnel of blossoms that feels like walking through a dream. Parisians take this fleeting beauty seriously—it’s one of the few times you’ll see locals stopping to take photos of their own city.
Location: Square Gabriel-Pierné, 5 Rue de Seine, 75006
Insider Tip: Late March to mid-April is prime time, but check Paris parks' social media for exact bloom times. Go early morning to avoid crowds and get better photos without people.
Take Photos at Rue de l’Abreuvoir
Montmartre has dozens of photogenic streets, but this remains my secret favorite. The slight curve of the cobblestone lane frames Sacré-Cœur perfectly at the top. Pink-fronted La Maison Rose café adds the perfect splash of color. I’ve seen countless marriage proposals on this street at golden hour—photographers hide behind corners to capture the moment! The street feels like a movie set, but it’s actually just regular Parisian life unfolding in extraordinary surroundings.
Location: Rue de l'Abreuvoir, 75018
Insider Tip: Early morning or during dinner time (8-10 PM) offers the least crowded photo opportunities. The view is best from the bottom of the street looking up.
Visit the Romantic Square du Vert-Galant
This triangular park sits at the western tip of Île de la Cité like the prow of a ship. Named after Henry IV (the “Green Gallant” king known for his romantic conquests), it’s one of my favorite hidden spots in central Paris. The weeping willow at the point offers shade and privacy—perfect for an impromptu picnic.
Location: Square du Vert-Galant, 75001
Insider Tip: Enter via the stairs near Pont Neuf. Bring a blanket—the benches fill quickly. At sunset, take photos from the very tip of the island looking west.
Explore Parc des Buttes-Chaumont
This dramatic park represents Paris landscape design at its most theatrical. Built on an old quarry, it features cliffs, waterfalls, and a temple perched on a rocky island in the middle of a lake. The suspension bridge crossing to the temple island makes for thrilling photos. The park’s hills create many private nooks perfect for romantic moments.
Location: 1 Rue Botzaris, 75019
Insider Tip: The Rosa Bonheur café inside the park is perfect for sunset drinks. Avoid peak times on sunny weekends when half of Paris descends here.
Visit Giverny and Monet’s Gardens
Just an hour from Paris lies the garden that inspired Monet’s most famous paintings. The famous Japanese bridge draped with wisteria, the water lilies floating on the pond, the flower beds exploding with color—it’s like walking into an Impressionist painting. Hold hands while crossing the bridge where Monet created his masterpieces. Pure artistic romance.
Location: 84 Rue Claude Monet, 27620 Giverny
Insider Tip: Visit first thing in the morning (arrive before opening) or late afternoon when tour buses leave. Spring for water lilies, June for roses, October for fall colors.
Take a Day Trip to Champagne
The rolling vineyards of Champagne lie just 45 minutes from Paris by train—yet few visitors make the trip. What a mistake! I’ve been taking friends here for impromptu day trips for years. Skip the big houses and find family producers where the owner might show you around personally. Nothing beats clinking glasses in the actual chalk caves where your champagne aged. The countryside scenery alone makes for a romantic escape from city life.
Location: Reims or Épernay (both accessible by direct train from Paris)
Insider Tip: Take the early train to Épernay and walk the Avenue de Champagne. Small producers in nearby Hautvillers offer more intimate tastings than the famous houses.
Explore the Gardens of Versailles
Everyone visits the palace, but the true romance of Versailles lives in its gardens. Rent a rowboat on the Grand Canal to see the palace from water level. Find Marie Antoinette’s hamlet where she played at being a simple farm girl. The fountains running on musical weekends during summer create a magical atmosphere. You can spend an entire day getting lost in the meticulously designed landscape.
Location: Place d'Armes, 78000 Versailles
Insider Tip: The gardens are free except on fountain show days. Bring a picnic to enjoy by the Grand Canal. Rent bikes to explore the full extent of the grounds.
Book a Couple’s Spa Day
Paris has embraced spa culture with typical French flair. The thermal baths at Mosquée de Paris offer an affordable hammam experience in gorgeous tiled surroundings. For a splurge, Peninsula Spa combines French beauty treatments with Asian techniques. There’s something incredibly bonding about relaxing together after days of sightseeing—your tired feet will thank you!
Location: Try Peninsula Spa, 19 Avenue Kléber, 75016
Insider Tip: Book midweek for better rates and more attention. Ask for the couples' treatment room with private steam shower at high-end hotel spas.
Watch the Sunset from Montparnasse Tower
I fought recommending this ugly skyscraper for years—until I realized it offers the best view in Paris… because it’s the only place you can’t see Montparnasse Tower! The observation deck provides spectacular 360° views, including the Eiffel Tower against the sunset. On clear evenings, you can see all the way to Sacré-Cœur. The 56th-floor champagne bar makes a perfect pre-dinner stop. It’s especially magical during the blue hour just after sunset.
Location: 33 Avenue du Maine, 75015
Insider Tip: Buy tickets online to avoid lines. Arrive 45 minutes before sunset and stay through blue hour. The indoor observation level is less crowded than the rooftop.
Hire a Vintage Car for the Day
Seeing Paris from a classic Citroën 2CV convertible creates instant magic. These quirky little cars take you places tour buses can’t reach. The drivers know hidden corners and secret viewpoints and will happily stop whenever you want photos. Seeing Paris’s grand boulevards with the top down, wind in your hair, feels like starring in your own French film.
Location: Paris 2CV Tours, pickup usually at your hotel
Insider Tip: Book the sunset tour for the most romantic lighting. Request a picnic stop by the Seine. The cars are tiny—tall couples should request their roomiest vehicle!
Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride
Floating silently above Paris offers perspectives few ever experience. Balloons typically launch from Parc André Citroën on the city’s edge. As you drift upward, Paris unfolds beneath you like a living map. The silence, except for occasional bursts from the burner, creates an intensely intimate experience. It’s expensive but absolutely unforgettable.
Location: Ballon Generali, Parc André Citroën, 75015
Insider Tip: Book early morning rides for calmer winds. Weather-dependent, so be flexible with your schedule. Bring a small bottle of champagne to celebrate your flight!
Book a Professional Photoshoot
Paris provides the world’s most beautiful backdrop for couple’s photos. Professional photographers know exactly when and where the light hits perfectly. They’ll guide you to spots you’d never find alone. The photos become treasured souvenirs—much better than selfies! Many photographers offer mini-sessions that won’t break the bank.
Location: Photographers typically suggest Trocadéro, Louvre, or Montmartre
Insider Tip: Dawn shoots (6-8 AM) provide empty backgrounds and perfect light. Discuss wardrobe in advance—solid colors photograph best against Paris backgrounds.
Stay in a Hotel with an Eiffel Tower View
I resisted this obvious splurge for years—until a milestone anniversary convinced me. Waking up to that iconic silhouette framed in your window transforms a hotel room into a private Paris sanctuary. Having morning coffee on your balcony as the city awakens, or nightcaps while watching the tower sparkle, creates intensely private romantic moments amid the bustling city. Even one night makes unforgettable memories.
Here’s a selection of my favorite hotels in Paris with Eiffel Tower views.
Location: Hotel Raphael, 17 Avenue Kléber, 75116 or Shangri-La Paris, 10 Avenue d'Iéna, 75116
Insider Tip: Specify "direct" Eiffel Tower view when booking—"partial" views can be disappointing. Rooms on higher floors are quieter. For the best value, try Hotel Brighton near Tuileries.
See the Moulin Rouge Show
Yes, it’s touristy. Yes, it’s expensive. The cabaret’s blend of traditional cancan, acrobatics, and elaborate costumes captures a certain Parisian spirit that dates back to the Belle Époque. The champagne flows freely, the lighting is flattering, and the energy is infectious. It’s a splashy, glamorous night out that feels quintessentially Parisian.
Location: 82 Boulevard de Clichy, 75018
Insider Tip: Book the dinner show package only if you want the complete experience—the food isn't the highlight. The VIP package with better seats and a half-bottle of champagne per person is worth the upgrade.
Best Times for Romance in Paris
Spring (April-June): My favorite season. Paris explodes with cherry blossoms, wisteria drapes over walls, and café terraces fill with sun-seekers. Parks burst into bloom, and the golden hour light stretches longer each evening. Temperatures are perfect for long walks, and Parisians emerge from winter with palpable joy. The city feels fresh and full of possibilities.
Fall (September-October): Paris belongs to Parisians again after the tourist crowds leave. The Luxembourg Gardens turn golden, morning mists rise from the Seine, and there’s a cozy feeling in the air. Galleries launch new exhibitions, and restaurants serve autumn specialties like game and mushrooms. The crisp air makes walking all day comfortable, and evening lights reflect beautifully on rain-slicked streets.
Christmas Season: Paris knows how to dress for the holidays! Department store windows become elaborate fantasies, the Champs-Élysées sparkles with lights, and pop-up Christmas markets serve mulled wine and roasted chestnuts. It’s cold, but that just means more excuses to duck into cozy cafés for hot chocolate. Ice skating rinks appear in surprising places, and the whole city feels festive.
Remember that the most romantic experiences often come from unplanned moments – getting lost in charming streets, finding a perfect café, or simply watching Parisian life unfold together. Embrace spontaneity and create your own unique memories in the City of Love!
