Romantic Things To Do in Paris

Paris, the “City of Love,” has long captivated the hearts of couples seeking romance. With its charming cobblestone streets, iconic landmarks bathed in golden light, and an atmosphere that whispers love at every corner, Paris remains the quintessential romantic getaway.

Whether you’re celebrating a honeymoon, an anniversary, or simply desire to create magical memories together, this guide will highlight the most enchanting experiences Paris has to offer couples searching for that perfect romantic escape.

Here’s the ultimate guide for romantic things to do in Paris.

Related read: Things to Do in Paris for Couples

Here’s an overview:

1. Iconic Romantic Experiences in Paris

Eiffel Tower magic

There’s nothing quite like witnessing Paris spread before you from the city’s most beloved landmark. The Eiffel Tower offers unparalleled views that transform from sun-drenched panoramas by day to a glittering wonderland by night.

Why it’s romantic: Standing together at the summit as the city unfurls below creates an unforgettable shared moment. The tower’s nightly light show, when thousands of twinkling lights dance across its frame, is perhaps Paris’s most magical spectacle.

Practical Tips:

• Opening hours: Daily from 9:00 AM to 00:45 AM (last ascent at 11:00 PM)
• Best viewing times: Arrive for sunset (around 7:00-9:30 PM in summer, 5:00-7:00 PM in winter) or after dark to see the 5-minute light show that occurs on the hour
• Tickets: Book skip-the-line tickets online at www.toureiffel.paris (€17.10-€28.30 depending on how high you go) if you did not buy a multi-tickets option like a City Pass
• Insider tip: For the ultimate romantic splurge, reserve a table at Le Jules Verne restaurant on the second floor for Michelin-starred dining with incomparable views

Seine River Cruise

Gliding along the Seine offers a unique perspective of Paris’s most beautiful monuments while you and your beloved relax in each other’s company.

Why it’s romantic: During the day, you can watch the history of the city pass by from the ship. But this tour is also great in the evening, especially if you book a meal on the ship. There’s something magical about drifting past illuminated landmarks like Notre-Dame Cathedral and under ornate bridges whilst sipping champagne. The gentle lapping of water creates an intimate soundtrack for whispered conversations.

Practical Tips:

• Standard cruises: Last approximately 1 hour
• Dinner cruises: Typically, 2-3 hours of sailing with a multi-course meal
• Recommended companies:
• Booking advice: Reserve online at least 3 days in advance for dinner cruises, especially during high season (April-October)

Montmartre Wanderings

This hillside neighbourhood feels like stepping into a different era, with its village-like ambiance, artistic heritage, and the gleaming white Sacré-Cœur Basilica crowning its summit.

Why it’s romantic: Winding cobblestone streets, charming cafés with tables spilling onto pavements, and street artists capturing the moment all contribute to Montmartre’s undeniable allure. The panoramic view from the steps of Sacré-Cœur is worth every step of the climb.

Related read: Things To Do in Montmartre

Practical Tips:

• Getting there: Take Métro Line 2 to Anvers or Line 12 to Abbesses, then walk uphill (or use the funicular near Anvers station for €1.90, covered by a regular metro ticket)
• Must-see spots:
  • Place du Tertre: Watch artists at work or commission a portrait together
  • Le Mur des Je t’aime (I Love You Wall): Located in Square Jehan Rictus, featuring “I love you” written in 250+ languages
  • La Maison Rose: The famous pink corner café perfect for Instagram-worthy photos
• Visiting times: Morning offers more peaceful exploration; sunset at Sacré-Cœur creates a magical atmosphere

2. Hidden Gems for Romance in Paris

The Covered Passages (Les Passages Couverts)

These elegant 19th-century glass-roofed arcades offer a glimpse into Paris’s elegant past and shelter from rain or excessive heat.

Why it’s romantic: Walking hand-in-hand through these atmospheric passages transports you to another era. The vintage shop fronts, warm lighting, and sense of discovery create perfect settings for intimate moments. Maybe you find something lasting to remind you of your trip to Paris?

Related read: Exploring Paris by Foot: Walking Guide to Paris

Practical Tips:

• Most beautiful passages:
  • Galerie Vivienne (4 Rue des Petits Champs, 75002): The most ornate with mosaic floors and elegant shops
  • Passage des Panoramas (11 Boulevard Montmartre, 75002): Paris’s oldest passage (1799) with stamp shops and cosy restaurants
  • Passage Jouffroy (10-12 Boulevard Montmartre, 75009): Home to quirky toy shops and the romantic Hôtel Chopin
• Opening hours: Generally 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM, with some variation between passages
• Best time to visit: Weekday mornings for fewer crowds

Parc des Buttes-Chaumont

This 19th-century park in northeastern Paris offers dramatic landscapes with cliffs, waterfalls, and a temple perched high on a rocky outcrop.

Why it’s romantic: Less touristy than central parks, Buttes-Chaumont provides secluded spots perfect for stealing kisses or quiet conversations. The Temple de la Sibylle, a mini Roman-inspired rotunda, offers spectacular views and makes a perfect backdrop for couple photos.

Practical Tips:

• Address: 1 Rue Botzaris, 75019 Paris
• Opening hours: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM in summer, 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM in winter
• Getting there: Métro Line 7bis or Line 11 to Buttes-Chaumont or Botzaris stations
• Best for: Morning walks followed by brunch at Rosa Bonheur, the park’s charming guinguette-style café

Musée de la Vie Romantique

Nestled in a quiet corner of the 9th arrondissement, this small museum occupies a historic house where novelist George Sand once attended literary salons.

Why it’s romantic: The name says it all—”Museum of Romantic Life.” Set in a vine-covered house with a serene garden, it celebrates the Romantic era through art and literature.

Practical Tips:

• Address: 16 Rue Chaptal, 75009 Paris
• Opening hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (closed Mondays)
• Admission: Free for permanent collections, temporary exhibitions may charge a fee
• Don’t miss: The delightful garden café (open March-October) serving tea and light refreshments under the trees

3. Food and Drink Adventures for Couples in Paris

Candlelit Dinner in a Michelin-Starred Restaurant

No romantic trip to Paris would be complete without indulging in the city’s world-renowned culinary scene.

Why it’s romantic: French cuisine elevates dining to art, with meticulous presentation, exquisite flavours, and service designed to make you feel special. Add flickering candlelight and fine wines, and you have the recipe for an unforgettable evening.

Related read: Good Restaurants Near Major Attractions in Paris

Practical Tips:

• Top romantic restaurants:
  • Le Jules Verne (Eiffel Tower, 2nd floor): Breathtaking views paired with Michelin-starred cuisine by chef Frédéric Anton. Reservations essential 3+ months in advance. €190-€260 per person.
  • Epicure at Le Bristol Hotel (112 Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, 75008): Three Michelin stars with elegant surroundings and impeccable service. €380-€450 per person for dinner.
  • Restaurant Guy Savoy (Monnaie de Paris, 11 Quai de Conti, 75006): Three Michelin stars in a historic setting. €415 for tasting menu.
• More affordable yet romantic alternatives:
  • Les Ombres (27 Quai Branly, 75007): Rooftop restaurant with spectacular Eiffel Tower views. €65-€95 per person.
  • Le Coupe-Chou (11 Rue de Lanneau, 75005): Rustic charm in a 17th-century building. €35-€55 per person.
• Dress code: Smart elegant (jacket recommended for men at high-end establishments)

Related read: Top Paris Restaurants with a View of the Eiffel Tower

Picnic by the Seine or in Jardin des Tuileries

One of the most authentically Parisian experiences is assembling a simple yet decadent picnic from local specialties.

Why it’s romantic: Few things compare to spreading a blanket along the Seine, uncorking a bottle of wine, and savouring artisanal cheeses while watching boats glide by. It’s intimate, relaxed, and quintessentially Parisian.

Practical Tips:

• Best picnic locations:
  • Square du Vert-Galant: This tiny park at the western tip of Île de la Cité offers Seine views and relative privacy
  • Champ de Mars: Classic spot with Eiffel Tower views
  • Jardin des Tuileries: Elegant formal gardens with chairs around fountains
• Where to source picnic supplies:
  • Rue Cler market street (7th arrondissement): One-stop shopping with fromageries, patisseries, and wine shops
  • Marché Bastille (Boulevard Richard Lenoir, 75011): Every Thursday and Sunday morning
  • La Grande Épicerie (38 Rue de Sèvres, 75007): Gourmet food hall for ready-made delicacies
• Picnic essentials: Corkscrew, small cutting board, pocket knife, napkins, and a light blanket
• Legal note: Public drinking is generally permitted in Paris parks during opening hours, but excessive alcohol consumption is not tolerated.

Related read: How to Eat Like a Local in Paris

Parisian Pastry Class for Two

Learn to create exquisite French desserts together under expert guidance, then enjoy the fruits of your labour.

Why it’s romantic: Cooking together creates bonds through shared experiences and sensory pleasures. Plus, you’ll take home skills to recreate your Parisian romance long after your trip ends.

Practical Tips:

• Recommended cooking schools:
  • La Cuisine Paris (80 Quai de l’Hôtel de Ville, 75004): Intimate classes in English specialising in French classics. €95-€129 per person.
  • Le Cordon Bleu (13-15 Quai André Citroën, 75015): World-famous culinary school offering short workshops. €45-€150 per person.
  • LeFoodist (59 Rue du Cardinal Lemoine, 75005): Classes in macaron making, croissant baking, food tours, and cooking classes with market visit. €109-€239 per person.
• Booking advice: Reserve at least 2-3 weeks in advance, especially during high season
• Class duration: Typically 2-3 hours
• Language: Most schools offer English-language instruction

4. Seasonal Romantic Events

Paris offers different flavours of romance throughout the year, with each season bringing unique opportunities for couples.

Winter: Ice Skating under the Eiffel Tower

Why it’s romantic: Gliding hand-in-hand on ice with the illuminated Eiffel Tower soaring above creates magical winter memories.

Practical Tips:

• Location: Champ de Mars (typically December to early February)
• Cost: Around €15-€20 including skate rental
• After skating: Warm up with vin chaud (mulled wine) at nearby cafés

Spring: Strolling Through Cherry Blossoms at Parc de Sceaux

Why it’s romantic: The ephemeral beauty of cherry blossoms creates a fairytale setting for romantic walks.

Practical Tips:

• Location: Parc de Sceaux (13 km / 8 mi south of Paris)
• Getting there: RER B to Parc de Sceaux or Bourg-la-Reine stations
• Best viewing: Late March to early April, depending on the year
• Admission: Free
• Don’t miss: The formal French gardens and château

Related read: A Guide to Visiting Paris in the Spring

Summer: Open-Air Cinema at Parc de la Villette

Why it’s romantic: Snuggling under the stars while watching films on a giant outdoor screen epitomises summer romance in Paris.

Practical Tips:

• Location: Prairie du Triangle, Parc de la Villette (211 Avenue Jean Jaurès, 75019)
• Season: Mid-July to Mid-August
• Cost: Free entrance (€7 for chair rental or bring your own blanket)
• Films: Mix of French and international films, sometimes with English subtitles
• Programme: Check here for the schedule

Autumn: Wine Tasting Tours during Grape Harvest Season

Why it’s romantic: Fall brings harvest celebrations and the perfect weather for exploring vineyards near Paris.

Practical Tips:

• Nearest wine regions:
  • Champagne: 1.5 hours from Paris by train or car
  • Loire Valley: 2-3 hours from Paris
• Recommended tours:
  • Champagne region day trips: €150-€250 per person, including transportation from Paris, cellar visits, and tastings.
  • O Chateau Wine Tasting (68 Rue Jean-Jacques Rousseau, 75001): Stay in Paris and enjoy expert-led tastings from €69 per person.
• Booking: Reserve at least one week in advance through the Paris tourism office or online tour operators

5. Romantic Hotels and Stays

Your accommodation can elevate your romantic Paris experience from wonderful to extraordinary.

Luxury Stay: Hôtel Plaza Athénée

Why it’s romantic: This palatial hotel embodies Parisian luxury with its red awnings, geranium-filled balconies, and sumptuous rooms with exceptional Eiffel Tower views.

Practical Tips:

• Address: 25 Avenue Montaigne, 75008 Paris
• Price range: €1,000-€5,000+ per night
• Romantic features:
  • Request an Eiffel Tower view room
  • Book the hotel’s “Romantic Package” including champagne, flowers, and petit fours
  • Dine at Alain Ducasse au Plaza Athénée, one of Paris’s most celebrated restaurants
• Reservations

Boutique Option: Hôtel Particulier Montmartre

Why it’s romantic: Hidden away behind ivy-covered walls in Montmartre, this former mansion offers just five unique suites in a setting that feels like a secret garden.

Practical Tips:

• Address: 23 Avenue Junot, 75018 Paris (entrance via 18 Rue Lepic)
• Price range: €390-€590 per night
• Romantic features:
  • Cocktails in the lush garden
  • Secluded location down a private passageway
  • Uniquely designed suites by different artists
• Reservations

Budget-Friendly: Hôtel Caron de Beaumarchais

Why it’s romantic: This charming 18th-century style boutique hotel in the historic Marais district offers romance without breaking the bank.

Practical Tips:

• Address: 12 Rue Vieille du Temple, 75004 Paris
• Price range: €150-€220 per night
• Romantic features:
  • Period décor with antique furnishings and beamed ceilings
  • Fresh flowers in each room
  • Excellent location for exploring the historic Marais district
• Reservations

FAQ Section

What are the best free romantic activities in Paris?

Paris generously offers numerous ways to experience romance without spending a euro:

• Strolling along the Seine: Walk hand-in-hand along the riverbanks, particularly beautiful at sunset and after dark when monuments are illuminated
• Watching the sunset at Sacré-Cœur: Climb the steps for one of Paris’s most spectacular (and free) viewpoints
• Exploring the gardens of Palais Royal: Wander through elegant arcades and formal gardens with fountains, hidden from the busy streets
• Visiting the “Love Lock Bridge”: While the original Pont des Arts no longer permits locks, couples still attach them to Pont de l’Archevêché near Notre-Dame

Related read: Exploring Paris by Foot: Walking Guide to Paris

What’s the best time of year to visit Paris for couples?

While Paris is romantic year-round, certain seasons offer distinct advantages:

• Spring (April-June): Blooming gardens, comfortable temperatures (15-25°C / 59 – 77 °F), and fewer tourists than summer make this perhaps the ideal season for romance. Related read: A Guide to Visiting Paris in the Spring
• Autumn (September-October): Golden light bathes the city, temperatures remain pleasant (15-20°C / 59-68 °F), and summer crowds have dispersed.
• Winter (December-February): Paris takes on a magical quality during the festive season with holiday decorations and fewer tourists, though weather can be chilly (2-8°C / 36-46 °F) and sometimes rainy. Related read: Winter in Paris: A Unique Guide to Exploring the City of Love
• Summer (July-August): Offers the longest daylight hours and warmest temperatures (20-30°C / 68-86 °F), but brings the largest crowds and many Parisians leave the city.

Are there romantic day trips from Paris?

Several enchanting destinations lie within easy reach of Paris:

• Château de Versailles:
  • Distance: 20km (12.4 mi) southwest of Paris
  • Getting there: RER C train from central Paris (45 minutes)
  • Highlights: Opulent palace interiors, magnificent formal gardens, and the romantic Petit Trianon
  • Admission: €18-€27 depending on access level; gardens sometimes free
  • Tip: Visit on Tuesday or midweek for smaller crowds

Related read: What to Expect on a Versailles Day Trip from Paris

• Giverny (Monet’s Garden):
  • Distance: 75km (46.6 mi) northwest of Paris
  • Getting there: Train from Gare Saint-Lazare to Vernon (45 minutes), then shuttle bus or 4km (2.49 mi) walk
  • Highlights: The famous Japanese bridge and water lily pond that inspired Monet’s masterpieces
  • Open: Late March to November, 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Admission: €11
  • Tip: Arrive early morning or late afternoon to avoid tour groups

Related read: Claude Monet’s House: How to Plan a Giverny Day Trip from Pari

• Champagne Region:
  • Distance: 145km (90.1 mi) east of Paris
  • Getting there: Train from Gare de l’Est to Reims (45 minutes) or organised tour
  • Highlights: Historic champagne houses, rolling vineyards, and champagne tastings
  • Recommended visits: Moët & Chandon in Epernay, Veuve Clicquot in Reims
  • Tip: Book cellar tours in advance during peak season

A Love Affair with Paris: Your Journey Begins

Paris offers romance at every corner, whether you’re indulging in exquisite cuisine, exploring hidden gems, or marvelling at its iconic landmarks. The city constantly reinvents itself as a canvas for love stories, yet remains timeless in its romantic appeal. From grand gestures atop the Eiffel Tower to simple pleasures like sharing a pastry on a park bench, Paris provides countless ways to create memories that will last a lifetime.

To make your romantic journey seamless and packed with unforgettable experiences, consider booking your Paris City Pass today. This convenient pass includes access to many top attractions and even Seine cruises—allowing you to focus entirely on each other rather than logistics.

Love is always in the air in Paris—what are you waiting for?