Post Overview: Romantic things to do in Paris
Paris has gained the reputation as the City of Love for more reasons than one. Around every bend is an inviting cafe where conversation becomes second nature. The Eiffel Tower looms over the skyline like a twinkling painting. Folks on holiday are taking kissing-selfies on every corner, love is literally in the air.
When accompanied by the right person, there’s an abundance of romantic things to do in Paris. From inexpensive date ideas that cost no more than a metro ride to lavish restaurants fitting for global ambassadors, your options are endless.
And if you’re looking for a few ideas to get you well on your way towards earning that “partner of the year” award you’ve come to the right place. I’ve visited the French capital a half-dozen times and each time I find myself falling in love with both my husband and the city a little more.
We make it a point to each plan a date night a week, so I’ve gone on my fair share of dates during my month-long stays in the city. I’ve written down some of the most romantic things to do in Paris in this article, based from first hand experience.
Are you ready to get to the good stuff? Because I am! So without further ado — here are the most romantic things to do in Paris.
Romantic Things to Do in Paris
#25. Wander the Jardin du Luxembourg hand in hand
How could a day pretending to be royalty not be one of the most romantic things to do in Paris? At the Luxembourg Gardens you can walk hand in hand with your lovebird and enjoy a backyard (literally) designed for a queen!
The Luxembourg Garden was commissioned by Marie de’ Medici after her sweet thang, King Henry IV, died and left her a (very rich) widow. Eager to shake things up, she decided that the Louvre was no longer a desirable residence and commissioned an architect to build a new palace in imitation of the place she was born — Pitti Palace in Florence.
Likewise, the garden was designed in a style native to Florence and spared no expense in the effort. Today you’ll see chipper tourist with cameras in hand rubbing elbows with locals catching up with friends, and retirees napping. Visiting the gardens can be one of the most romantic things to do in Paris, so you won’t want to miss it.
To make things even more amorous you can bring a picnic blanket and some snacks to unwind. If you come unprepared there’s no need to sweat it, the garden is also home to a cafe (named Terrasse de Madame) where you can enjoy a glass of wine and a bite.
As you know, the Statue of Liberty was a gift to America from the French. But did you know you can see a smaller version of the Statue of Liberty at the Luxembourg Gardens? You can find the bronze replica on the west side of the park. Just something to mull over if looking for Paris itinerary ideas.
#24. Split a bottle of Rosé at Les Deux Magots
Parisians consider passing time as an art form, and they’ve been qualifying for those Olympics since the dawn of time. To their credit, after becoming accustomed to long, leisurely afternoons devoted to nothing (bless you, vacation), I understand the hype.
The challenge is knowing which idyllic little cafe is among the most romantic things to do in Paris. To that I say: the most iconic one: Les Deux Magots.
But let’s address the elephant in the room — scoring a table at Les Deux Magots will require nothing short of a miracle. However, if you have the patience (just got to keep checking the website) you’ll be rewarded with one of the most romantic things to do in Paris.
Attracting celebrities, creatives (Hemingway, Picasso) and chic locals since 1884, Les Deux Margot has become a popular destination in the French capital. This is one of the classiest Parisian cafes around. It’s hard to imagine a more romantic date night in Paris than nursing a bottle of rosé while people-watching.
If helpful, we paid $40 for a bottle of rosé at Les Deux Margot, which is steep by European standards, but on par with typical prices in Paris (and hell, a bargain by New York City standards).
Address: 6 Pl. Saint-Germain des Prés, 75006 Paris, France
#23. Celebrate an anniversary with views of the Eiffel Tower
Are you traveling to Paris to celebrate something big? One of the most romantic things to do in Paris is to clink glasses at a restaurant with views of the Eiffel Tower.
Whether you’re going to propose (congratulations!) or toasting to an anniversary, the Iron Lady unarguably provides the most romantic views in Paris. This is what dreams are made of, and with a little planning you can make them a reality while visiting the French capital.
The euphoria of dining under the twinkling Iron Lady is hard to top (she sparkles for the first five minutes of every hour, after sunset). If you’re able to snag a reservation at one of these in-demand restaurants you’ll be enjoying one of the most romantic things to do in Paris and making the memory of a lifetime.
Below I’ll list a short round-up of some of the best restaurants with views of the Eiffel Tower:
- Francette | Francette is a cruise ship that functions as a three-story restaurant. Each story offers a different experience but if you’re after a restaurant with great views of the Eiffel Tower, I suggest floor 0 or +1 (the penthouse aka the terrace). The restaurant is located on the water directly in front of the Iron Lady. | RESERVATIONS | Address: 1 Port de Suffren, 75007 Paris
- Les Ombres | Les Ombres is a spot where elegance and class meet on a rooftop terrace. Offering different variations of three to six-course meals, you can expect to pay a pretty penny if you choose to dine here. If at all helpful, you can expect to pay roughly €60 – €160 a person. | RESERVATIONS | Address: 27 Quai Jacques Chirac, 75007 Paris
- Girafe | Girafe is a seafood restaurant located inside the Cite de l’architecture et du Patrimoine, a museum dedicated to French architecture. The restaurant itself is a masterclass in hospitality and aesthetics, because it’s as beautiful as the food is delicious. | NO ONLINE RESERVATIONS — Call or show up a few days early to get a reservation for that week. | Address: 1 Pl. du Trocadéro et du 11 Novembre, 75016 Paris
Making reservations at a restaurant in advance is always encouraged since this is one of the most romantic things to do in Paris. If all else fails, it’s always worth a shot to show up in person and see if there is a table available for walk-ins.
#22. Explore the charming streets of Paris at night
There is a certain beauty that exists within a city when the lights go down and Paris is no exception.
The city comes to life as the moon glitters on the Seine, restaurant lights sparkle, and streetlamps shine. Going out after dark and taking in the nightlife is one of the most romantic things to do in Paris.
Now this should go without saying, but use your best judgment when strolling the streets of Paris at night. Personally, as a woman I’ve never felt unsafe. However, I always go out with my husband which plays a huge factor.
Regardless, my best piece of advice is to stick to popular areas. Typically where there are crowds there is nightlife and those spots tend to be safe.
Another tip I’ve gathered over the years is to try to blend in and not stick out as a tourist. Meaning don’t draw unnecessary attention to yourself by being loud. Tourist tend to make for easy targets and we don’t want to ruin your romantic date night in Paris, do we?
My intention is not to spook you, in fact I encourage you to explore the city at night! The City of Love turns into the city of charm when the sun sets and wandering the streets is one of the best free romantic things to do in Paris.
#21. Visit the famous Love Lock Bridge
There are a handful of things synonymous with Paris. There’s the Eiffel Tower, croissants, berets…but none of those scream romance like the famous Love Lock Bridge.
Formally known as Pont des Arts bridge, this is the bridge where folks from all over the world travel with their special someone to solidify their love by attaching a lock to the bridge and tossing the key into the Seine River.
This is also the famous bridge from that scene in Sex and The City. You know the one where Miss Carrie Bradshaw got her happily ever after with Big.
All I’m trying to say is that there are few better romantic things to do in Paris than to swing by the literal bridge of love.
Here’s the kicker! Back in 2014 due to the influx of locks the bridge physically couldn’t handle the weight of all the love. It sadly ended up collapsing and became a safety hazard. So in 2015 the walls of the bridge were replaced with glass panels. Meaning the bridge is no longer home to the hundreds of thousands locks it once held.
But that shouldn’t stop you from visiting! On the contrary, one of the most romantic things to do in Paris is to visit Pont des Arts bridge and see just how creative people got. If you think glass panels could stop folks from professing their love to one another you are sorely mistaken.
Instead you’ll find the street posts and surrounding areas are littered in padlocks. And couples are still tossing keys into the Seine in an effort to symbolize their bond. I’m not telling you to put up a lock, just to enjoy the bridge as one of the most romantic places in Paris.
Fun Fact: Before the removal, there were around 700,000 padlocks on the Pont des Arts bridge!
#20. Take in the epic views from Arc de Triomphe
Seeing the city from above is not only one of the most romantic things to do in Paris, but a bucket list item for most! Is it touristy? Absolutely, but well worth it.
In order to get to the top of Arc de Triomphe, you’ll need to climb a steep set of stairs (284 steps… you learn a lot about a person during this time). The stairs will eventually lead to the top, where you get some of the most breathtaking views of the city.
I know it may seem like a lot of work but it’s manageable and the views are rewarding enough.
Since this is one of the most romantic things to do in Paris, tickets sell fast. Plan ahead and book tickets here (current cost is 13€ per person). There’s a little museum at the top that’s worth perusing for souvenirs.
Word to the wise: It’s best to know the history of this important landmark before visiting Paris. It makes you an informed and respectful tourist, who doesn’t love that?
Why is the Arc de Triomphe important?
inaugurated in 1836, the Arc de Triomphe honors soldiers that died fighting for France’s freedom during the French Revolution and Napoleonic Wars. Observe the walls on the arc and you’ll see the names of generals and notable French victories during those times.
As you leave the Arc de Triomphe, you’ll notice a moving tribute to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier from World War I.
#19. Buy your partner an outfit at a vintage shop
This next romantic activity in Paris is less traditional and more so influenced by social media. There is a trend going around on the internet where couples will set a budget and then be let loose in a store with an allotted amount of time. In that time frame, each partner must buy an entire outfit for the other person.
With this fun game in mind, one of the most memorable romantic things to do in Paris is to buy your partner an outfit, but from a vintage store!
Paris is the fashion capital of the world and the street style is unmatched. You constantly see folks dressed to the nines just to come out of the grocery store with only a jug of milk in hand. No reason to leave the house is too small when it comes to dressing your best.
With the plethora of vintage stores to choose from, you and your partner can easily spend a few hours pursuing unique, vintage pieces and and surprising each other. Then to piggy back off of that, another one of the best romantic things to do in Paris is to wear your new outfit and go to dinner! It’s a win-win.
Here is a round-up of some fun vintage shops in Paris:
- Ding Fring
- Free’P’Star
- Guerrisol
- Kilo Shop
#18. Have a Professional Photoshoot
Even though most of us have a high-quality camera glued to our hand 24/7 (thank you, cellphones), I still strongly encourage you to have a professional photoshoot in the City of Love.
It’s one of the most romantic things to do in Paris and will provide you with precious mementos of your time in the French capital. I know having your photo taken can be uncomfortable but a good photographer can quickly quell your nerves and have you smiling in no time.
Not to mention the selfies you take will likely be buried in a backlog of photos documenting your day to day life. Meanwhile a professional picture can (and should) be printed and put on display!
If you need help finding a photographer here’s a little hack. On Instagram search the hashtag #photographeparisiene which translates to Paris photographer. Scroll the images until you find a photo and editing style you like and click on the profile. Most reputable photographers will have links to their sites with pricing or a place for you to ask more questions.
And if time, budget or nerves don’t allow for a professional photographer you should do the photo shoot yourself. It’s one of the most romantic things to do in Paris, just pick up one of these bad boys, grab your partner and hit the town.
#17. Shop for a bouquet with your lover
Receiving flowers is always a sweet gesture but when in the City of Love one of the most romantic things to do in Paris is to shop for the bouquet together. The reason? All the stunning flower shops and displays!
It’s easy to get carried away while sorting through all the different types of flowers. Not to mention the fresh scent that oozes from the buckets of petals. You can shop at flower stands, flower shops or my personal favorite spot: Marché aux Fleurs Reine Elizabeth II (Queen Elizabeth II Flower Market). Founded in 1808 it’s one of the oldest flower markets in the city!
Inside you’ll find a prolific display of nature’s beauty. As one of the best romantic things to do in Paris, you can take your time smelling and gawking at the blooms. You’ll find everything from a common rose to hard-to-get flowers that will impress even the toughest of critics.
The market also historically sells birds on Sundays, but the practice is expected to cease soon. I personally think getting rid of the birds is for the best. Because although a bird’s song sounds pretty in nature, at the market it felt more like a zoo.
Fun Fact: It was originally known as the Marché aux fleurs et aux oiseaux Cité (or the Flower and Bird Market). However after a visit by Queen Elizabeth II in 2014 it changed its name to Marché aux fleurs Reine-Elizabeth-II (or the Queen Elizabeth II Flower Market).
#16. Soak in the city views at Galeries Lafayette rooftop terrace
One of the best views of Paris comes from Galeries Lafayette, a luxury department store catered to those with no self-control of their spending (aka, me).
The store itself is stunning and does a great job creating an atmosphere of class and grandeur. There are golden accents, tiled floors and a dome that could just as well be found in a Renaissance-era church. Shopping alone would be one of the most romantic things to do in Paris (if budget allows) but there’s a rooftop terrace waiting for you.
I’ve learned (for my wallet’s sake) to make a beeline for the elevator and head straight up to the rooftop terrace. Once at the top it’s easy to lose track of time. Soaking in the views of the Eiffel Tower is one of the most romantic things to do in Paris, especially during sunset.
If you find yourself working up an appetite you’ll be better served at the rooftop bar. During the springtime a restaurant called Créatures opens its doors to the public. The joint offers drinks and an entirely vegetarian menu. Full of delicious small bites and providing epic views of the city, few can resist partaking in this Romantic Paris activity when visiting Galeries Lafayette.
Address: 40 Bd Haussmann, 75009 Paris
#15. Shop for artwork at a gallery
Building and dreaming of a future with someone you love is nearly intoxicating. Just thinking of all the conversations I’ve had with my husband about what we want our future to look like puts butterflies in my stomach!
And in a strange way, shopping for home decor is like dreaming in present-time. You’re essentially reinforcing your commitment to one another by building a home together.
Now I’m not here to tell you that furniture shopping is one of the most romantic things to do in Paris (especially if one of you has poor taste), but shopping the city’s art galleries can be. You don’t even have to buy anything (artwork can be pretty spendy) just the act of dreaming together is fun.
There are plenty of art galleries in Paris you and your partner can visit. Notably in the neighborhoods of Saint-Germain des Pres and Le Marais. And even if you don’t want to buy an expensive, large piece of art, one of the most romantic things to do in Paris is to pick up small pieces from flea markets and street vendors.
#14. Take a day trip to a vineyard
Enjoying a glass of wine with the person you love is one of the most romantic things to do in Paris. But there is a unique way you can take it up a notch.
France is world-renowned for making great wines but an urban environment is not the most ideal place for a vineyard. There isn’t much wine production taking place in the capital.
With that said you don’t have to travel far from Paris to be in great wine-making country. There are tour companies that will actually take you from the city to a winery where you can learn all about the wine-making process and even sample some booze.
Taking one of these tours is one of the most romantic things to do in Paris. Not only do you get to see the French countryside but you get booze too?!
My husband and I took a day-trip to Champagne (which is only two hours from Paris) and came back with memories and a souvenir bottle. We toured wine cellars, vineyards and even the grave of Dom Pérignon.
Unfortunately, this was years ago and I have no clue which company we used. (I never want to recommend a service I have yet to try.) I do remember we used TripAdvisor though. After a quick search I saw there were still plenty of tours being offered.
#13. Pop into Shakespeare & Company
Shakespeare & Co. is an English-language bookshop that dates back to 1951. Founded by American George Whitman, the shop became a safe haven for anglophone writers and readers.
When the bookstore first opened, it was named Le Mistral. However, in 1964 Whitman changed the name to Shakespeare and Company in honor of a bookseller (Sylvia Beach) he personally admired. Beach founded the original Shakespeare and Company in 1919 in Paris.
It served as a gather place for expat writers. Chief among them were Joyce, Hemingway, Stein, Fitzgerald and Eliot. She provided housing in exchange for assistance at the store.
History aside, this bookstore is as charming as can be. So swing by if you’re looking for romantic things to do in Paris you won’t soon forget.
P.S. There’s a very charming cafe right next door, pop in for a great coffee and midday pick-me-up.
#12. Make Reservations For Afternoon Tea
Tea parties are not just for kids, in fact they’re one of the most romantic things to do in Paris. You get to play dress-up and enjoy pleasant conversation with someone you love, does it get better than that?
Normally you get a cup of tea and a variety of pastries to indulge. You spend the time sampling the sweet treats and depending on the place, can also order sparkling wine or something with a kick. 😉
I suggest making reservations for afternoon tea with your partner and partaking in a little bit of high-class pageantry. You’ll find most places that offer afternoon tea exude an air of opulence and luxury, making the occasion one of the most romantic things to do in Paris.
Some of my favorite places for afternoon tea in Paris include Le Dali inside Le Meurice Hotel, The Ritz-Carlton and the Champs-Elysee location of Laduree. Fair warning – afternoon tea can be pricey but well worth it when you consider it’s one of the most romantic things to do in Paris.
#11. Visit the Musée de la Vie Romantique
Musee de la Vie Romantique translates to the Museum of Romantic Life. And if that doesn’t sound like one of the most romantic things to do in Paris I don’t know what to tell ya!
The museum was the home-base of painter Ary Scheffer, a close friend to the second-to-last King of France Louis-Phillipe. Scheffer also had a relationship with his neighbor George Sands (Amantine Aurore Lucile Dupin), one of the most popular writers in Europe.
The museum is small but has just enough room to cover Scheffer and Sands’ work. Sprinkling in some more art pieces throughout. Plus swinging by the museum is one of the best free romantic things to do in Paris since the permanent collection is open to the public.
The museum’s garden is just as charming as the building. It’s a point of inspiration for anyone trying to get creative juices flowing. Sitting under the shadow of the large tree gives you ample shade to draw, write or photograph with your lovebird, it’s one of the most romantic things to do in Paris!
Address: 16 Rue Chaptal, 75009 Paris, France
#10. Get inspired by the artwork at Place du Tertre
In the very heart of the Montmartre, under the watchful gaze of the Sacré-Cœur, is an artist hot pocket you cannot risk missing if you’re looking for romantic things to do in Paris. Found at Place du Tertre (a public square), this is a congregation of talented artists selling original artwork al fresco.
The most common art seems to be the folks drawing caricatures. And what better way to commemorate a date in the City of Love than by having a portrait of you and your date doodled!
If it’s still early into the relationship and you’re not ready for that kind of commitment, I get it. But with there being a handful of artists selling actual paintings (watercolor, oil, etc.), simply pursuing the charming square together is one of the most romantic things to do in Paris.
#9. Share a kiss at the Wall of Love
Located in the Jehan Rictus garden square lives a tiled wall (roughly 430 square-feet) that draws crowds in daily.
Created by Fédéric Baron and Claire Kito in 2000, the wall is made up of 612 enamelled lava tiles. The tiles have the phrase “I love you” displayed on them 311 times in 250 languages.
Sounds impressive right? Make a beeline to the Wall of Love, it’s one of the most romantic things to do in Paris, even if it’s just for a quick selfie.
The intention of the wall was to create a piece of art that demonstrated the beauty of emulating human emotions with an object as cold as a wall, that represents division and separation. And it seems to have done just that.
You can expect to hear languages from all over the world as couples visit one of the most romantic places in Paris. You’ll find folks pulling out selfie sticks, giddy when they find “I love you” in their tongue. It’s truly one of the more unique things to do in the Montmartre neighborhood and I encourage everyone to swing by.
Address: Square Jehan Rictus, Pl. des Abbesses, 75018 Paris, France
#8. Watch a Cabaret at Moulin Rouge
I had heard the name “Moulin Rouge” for years before actually learning what it is. For those in a similar boat, Le Moulin Rouge translates to “The Red Mill” and it’s the home of the most famous cabarets in the world. Visiting is one of the most romantic things to do in Paris thanks to both the entertainment and the venue’s history.
(If at all helpful Cabarets are best described as halfway between a concert and a musical.)
The cabaret opened in 1889, the same year that Paris hosted the World’s Fair. Tourists from around the world flocked to the French capital and many stopped by Moulin Rouge, growing its fame and in a lot of ways, its notoriety (because the dancing was of a provocative nature).
As time would tell Moulin Rouge was a bona fide homerun. And more than 130 years later in the present it’s one of Paris’ most recognizable landmarks. You’ll find its facade decorating postcards, totes and even shirts!
And thanks to its fame and intimacy, visiting the cabaret is one of the most romantic things to do in Paris. You can book tickets for dinner and a show online, and they run well into the night.
Each person will receive half a bottle of champagne (hello!) and be starstruck by the world-class dancing on stage. It’s one of the most fun and romantic date-nights in Paris and one of my favorite things to do in the city at night.
Address: 82 Bd de Clichy, 75018 Paris, France
#7. Take a Bike Tour of the City
Not all the romantic things to do in Paris involve sitting down for hours at a time — some can be a workout. Like taking a bike tour of the French capital! Which is not necessarily arduous but will definitely increase your heart rate.
And I know a bike tour isn’t for everyone, but my husband and I took one and between our nervous laughter (pedaling alongside traffic) and all the sights we got to see it was one of the most romantic things to do in Paris.
There’s something about bicycles that feels timeless, not to mention you’re saving your feet from walking a few thousand steps. Cycling in a major city may be out of your comfort zone, but that only makes it more memorable.
I tried finding the tour we took but I couldn’t find the email. My suggestion is to go through TripAdvisor and read reviews to find a bike tour that sounds fun. Some bike tours are only a few hours, others last all day. Some just route you through pretty places, others help explain the scene through headphones.
All this to say, taking a bike tour is one of the most romantic things to do in Paris. And odds are you can find one to suit your needs.
#6. Find a cute cafe and people watch the night away
I know I already mentioned splitting a bottle of rose at Les Deux Magots as one of the most romantic things to do in Paris, but it’s the City of Love for crying out loud. There are so many great restaurants and cafes with cute outdoor seating areas. You could plop yourself down and spend hours watching the city go by.
The amount of languages you’ll hear, the fashion you’ll see and lovebirds strolling the streets is as charming as can be. What makes this one of the best romantic activities in Paris is that there is no specific neighborhood that is better than the next.
Paris is chock-full of cute streets, I promise you won’t struggle finding a spot to dine and watch. But if you are in need of suggestions, I recommend these spots:
- Cafe de Flore
- Carette
- Café du Trocadéro
- Café Kitsuné Palais Royal
- Le Fumoir
- Chez Janou
#5. Picnic Along the River Seine
Most folks know that walking along the River Seine is one of the most romantic things to do in Paris, but picnicking along the banks takes it up a notch. You’ll be rewarded with great views of the city while enjoy a beer or light glass of rosé.
You’ll see tons of locals congregating along the banks, join them! Tag along a pack of playing cards and watch the evening hours slip by while nibble on delicious cheese and baguettes. When in Rome Paris, right?
I mean, can you think of a more romantic thing to do in Paris? To make it even better, if you’re an early riser (way to go, you!) make your way to the River Seine to catch the sunrise. You’ll avoid the crowds while getting spectacular views of the city waking up.
#4. Or take a romantic evening cruise along the Seine
If having a picnic along the banks of the Seine is one of the most romantic things to do in Paris, where does cruising the Seine fit on the scale? Why don’t you really wow your partner with a calming boat ride down the dreamy river.
I suggest booking tickets with Seine River Cruises, since they offer a plethora of options. You can book a one-hour boat tour, a dinner cruise or even a night cruise. Choosing to go the route of a cruise takes a lot of the hard work out of the equation for you.
There’s no need to plan a route or cook your own dinner, the staff takes care of that for you! Plus a cruise down the Seine is one of the most memorable and romantic things to do in Paris. It doesn’t have to break the bank, some tours start as low as €15!
#3. Window Shop Your Way Through Le Marais
My problem is that I like to spend money like I’m rich, even though I’m anything but. Maybe that’s why there’s so much joy that can come from the simplicity of window shopping.
And if you’re anything like me and you can’t hold yourself accountable — bring your partner! You can quickly turn a problem into one of the most romantic things to do in Paris.
The best neighborhood to shop your way through is Le Marais. It’s one of the most charming and inviting neighborhoods in the city full of small boutiques you can’t resist. Even my husband (who normally doesn’t care to shop) can’t help but be amused by the colorful shops and questionable designs of the window displays.
In recent trips to the French capital I’ve noticed an increase in vintage shops, and Le Marais is no different. I find window-shopping through vintage stores more entertaining since every store truly has something unique.
I encourage you to leave your wallet at home, resist any temptations and focus solely on being with your partner. As one of the most romantic things to do in Paris, use this time to dream together. Imagine what it would look like to shop one day without having to look at the price tags. 😉
#2. Get Lost Exploring The Louvre
No list outlining the best things to do in Paris during a first visit is complete without mentioning the Louvre. This place is a masterpiece. Even if you don’t consider yourself a “museum person” and it doubles as one of the most romantic things to do in Paris.
Originally built as a fortress before being repurposed as a royal palace, the build officially became a museum in 1793. That’s right, when our country was still a teenager (17 years old), the Louvre was established.
Since 1793, the building has been used many times over. Most notably by the Nazi’s during WWII when they need a space to store stolen art. The building alone is steeped in rich history and getting to experience it is worth visiting Paris for alone.
Not to mention getting to discuss the intricate art pieces can be one of the most romantic things to do in Paris. You get to see a little inside your partners mind as you walk hand in hand between million-dollar artwork.
Not to mention, you can’t sleep on the opportunity to see the Mona Lisa with your own eyes! More impressive than the honorable Mona (in my opinion), is the Coronation of Napoleon. A massive painting depicting — you guessed it — Napoleon’s coronation. It’s the most beautiful artwork I’ve every seen (and I visit The Met weekly).
Some folks argue that the Louvre can be skipped on a Paris itinerary for first time visits, but I disagree. It’s one of the most romantic date ideas in Paris. Don’t get me wrong, I understand the logic behind avoiding the museum — it is next-level busy and chaotic! But why in the world would you miss an opportunity to tour the largest museum in the world?
Helpful Tip: If you’re adding the Louvre to your Paris itinerary, book your tickets in advance. This way you’re not stuck in line too long! Here’s the official website for booking Louvre tickets.
#1. See the Eiffel Tower at Sunset
There is nothing more iconic in Paris than the Eiffel Tower, so let’s jump in. Built as a centerpiece for the 1889 World’s Fair, it was intended to be a temporary exhibit but quickly became an icon synonymous with the most romantic city in the world.
And it’s no wonder. Seeing this beauty aglow during sunset is one of the most romantic things to do in Paris. Especially at dusk, when the tower starts to shimmer in a dazzling display of lights.
One of the best ways to enjoy the Eiffel Tower at sunset is to trapeze around town in search of local treats (bakeries, cheese shops!) before parking yourself on the large lawn. From there, spend the entire afternoon talking about nothing and maybe pinching yourself.
But as you know, you and half the city will be at the Eiffel Tower at sunset looking to enjoy the most romantic thing to do in Paris. If you’re keen on escaping the crowds, head to the Eiffel Tower at sunrise for some semblance of solitude. It’s just as magical, regardless of the time of day.
All told, visiting Paris for the first time without seeing the Eiffel Tower up close is a no-go. Add it to your list of romantic things to do in Paris and see what all the fuss is about.
Note: Some readers have asked if ascending to the top of the Eiffel Tower is worthwhile while visiting Paris for the first time. Speaking personally, this is an easy no for me. It’s expensive, crowded and while you’ll get a great view of the city, you’ll be missing one crucial element — a view of the Eiffel Tower. This is an easy pass for me.
Most Romantic Things to Paris (Post Summary)
In sum, these are the most romantic things to do in Paris.
- See the Eiffel Tower at Sunset
- Get lost exploring the Louvre
- Window shop your way through Le Marais
- Picnic along the Seine
- Or Take a romantic evening cruise
- Find a cute cafe and people watch the night away
- Take a bike tour of the city
- Enjoy a cabaret at Moulin Rouge
- Share a Kidd at the Wall or Love
- Get inspired by the artwork at Place du Tertre
- Visit the Musée de la Vie Romantique
- Make reservations for afternoon tea
- Pop into Shakespeare & Company
- Take a day trip to a vineyard
- Shop for artwork at a gallery
- Soak in the city views at Galleries Lafayette rooftop terrace
- Shop for a bouquet with your lover
- Have a professional photoshoot done
- Buy your partner an outfit at a vintage shop
- Take in the epic views from Arc de Triomphe
- Visit the famous Love Lock Bridge
- Explore the charming streets of Paris at night
- Celebrate an anniversary at restaurant with a view of the Eiffel Tower
- Split a Bottle of Rosé at Les Deux Margot
- Wander the Jardin du Luxembourg
Map of romantic activities in Paris
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Cheers!
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