From a cruise along the Seine to a flower market or fascinating literary tour, discover things to do in Paris with your loved one.
Ahh Paris, the city of love, where any street, café, boutique, garden, or view becomes the perfect setting for a silver-screen kiss. Magical in winter, beautiful in spring, and lively in summer, Paris is the ultimate destination for lovers all year round.
Could I resist visiting it as a couple? Certainly not! We booked a flight, hotel, took a few days off and immediately set off to discover this wonderful European capital. With some activities already planned we were ready to explore and fully enjoy our time together.
For those love birds keen to do the same, here’s my round-up of 10 romantic experiences in Paris, which are suitable for all tastes and budgets.
1. Book a cruise on the Seine
A comfortable, romantic and magical way to explore the city, a cruise on the Seine is my top choice. Hop on a bateau-mouche and admire the monuments reflected on the water. You can also level up the experience by booking lunch or dinner on board. Passing under the historic Parisian bridges is particularly charming and some of our best couple photos from the trip were snapped there.
If you have little time and want to do a quality activity, my advice is to book this exclusive Paris tour with a cruise on the Seine, which combines navigation with a guided tour of some iconic areas of the city.
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2. Stroll through Montmartre
Lose yourself among the cobblestone streets of Montmartre, aka the artists’ district, and one of the most famous and romantic areas of the city. Visit the impressive Basilica of Sacré-Cœur at sunset and enjoy an exceptional view of the city lighting up as the sun goes down. Then discover the picturesque cafés and cozy restaurants. Don’t forget to stop at the I Love You Wall (Le mur des je t’aime) where ‘I love you’ is written in around 250 different languages.
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3. Join a baking class
If you and your loved one both enjoy cooking, join a French baking class for a fun experience that’s a little bit different. You’ll discover French culinary secrets and add a delectable touch to your trip. Learn the tricks to making the iconic Parisian baguette with this National Geographic Day Tour. From crusty bread to sweet éclairs, Master Didier will reveal the art of French baking, before finishing the lesson with a champagne toast.
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4. Relax at the Luxembourg Gardens
These gorgeous stately gardens are an oasis of peace in the heart of the city. Rent a boat on the central pond, relax on one of the pistachio green chairs, or walk hand in hand among flowerbeds and classical statues. In spring, the cherry blossoms create a dreamy setting that’s especially romantic.
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5. Dine at a Michelin-starred restaurant
French cuisine is among the most sophisticated and renowned in the world. So why not treat yourself to a starred experience, perhaps to celebrate a special moment? For a dinner that combines breathtaking views of the illuminated city and haute cuisine, book a table at the 2-Michelin-star Le Jules Verne restaurant at the Eiffel Tower. And for an exclusive experience that you won’t forget any time soon, opt for the L’Arpège restaurant on Rue de Varenne; it has 3 Michelin stars and a pioneering green philosophy.
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6. Join a literary tour of the city
Are you both avid readers? Then Paris holds an even greater charm for you, thanks to its profound relationship with literature. Be inspired by great French and international authors and discover literary Paris with this National Geographic Day Tour. Discover the bouquinistes along the Seine, visit the Bibliothèque Nationale Francaise, pop into the iconic Shakespeare and Co. bookstore, and retrace the steps of famous writers, playwrights and poets.
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7. Organize a picnic at Champ de Mars
Looking for low-budget romance on a beautiful day? Then a picnic with a view of the Eiffel Tower might just hit the spot. Simply pop into the supermarket, get some good French cheese, a bottle of wine, a nice crunchy baguette, and your favorite pastry, then spread out on the grass at the Champ de Mars. With a little effort magical moments can be found, even when you’re on a tighter budget.
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8. Walk across the Pont des Arts
Although it’s no longer possible to attach love locks, the Pont des Arts remains one of the most romantic places in Paris. Built between 1802 and 1804, this iconic bridge connects the Institut de France and the square of the Palais du Louvre. Cross it at sunset for an even dreamier atmosphere and take some beautiful souvenir photos. From here you’ll also get a great view of the impressive surrounding monuments.
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9. Visit the Rodin Museum and its garden
Nestled within a rococo building in the heart of Paris lies this elegant museum dedicated to none other than Auguste Rodin. Walk through the 18 rooms of the museum, where masterpieces like The Thinker and The Kiss are bound to impress. You’ll also get to admire works by Camille Claudel and Monet. Then head to the gardens to walk hand in hand among bronze sculptures, flowerbeds, and enchanting water mirrors.
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10. Shop at the Marché aux Fleurs
To finish off my list of romantic experiences in Paris, I wanted to include a place that’s somehow managed to escape the tourist radar, with an atmosphere that’s straight out of a post card. It’s the flower market on the Île de la Cité, a quiet place where you can stroll among stalls of fresh flowers and exotic plants. The market is both outdoors and indoors, and mainly held in beautiful early twentieth-century pavilions. Unmissable!
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Practical advice:
- Book restaurants and the Seine cruise in advance, especially during high season
- Visit popular places early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid crowds
- Check the weather and always have a plan B in case of rain
- Consider visiting Paris during the low season to enjoy a more intimate atmosphere
And if you’re still looking for inspiration on things to do in the French capital, take a look at our 2-day itinerary in Paris, complete with downloadable maps.