Paris is widely known as the City of Love, and for good reason. Its charming streets, iconic landmarks, and romantic ambiance make it the perfect destination for couples. I’ve had the pleasure of exploring this city with my partner, and every corner of Paris holds a new opportunity for romantic experiences. I’ll share with you my personal experiences at some of the most romantic places in Paris, along with my recommendations for other romantic activities. From boat rides on the Seine to quiet walks in lush gardens, Paris offers a wealth of romantic activities that will make your visit unforgettable.
- Seine River Cruise – A Romantic Evening Under the Stars
Personal Experience:
One of the most memorable and romantic experiences I’ve had in Paris was taking a Seine River cruise at sunset with my partner. As we boarded the boat near the Pont Neuf, we were greeted with a glass of champagne, and the boat slowly made its way down the Seine, passing under the city’s iconic bridges. Watching the Eiffel Tower shimmer as the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the river, was absolutely breathtaking.
Photography Tips:
The best time to take a Seine river cruise is during sunset or in the evening, as the city’s landmarks are beautifully lit up. From the boat, you get a unique perspective of Paris, with views of the Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Eiffel Tower, and the Louvre. Be sure to capture the sparkling lights of the Eiffel Tower, which twinkle every hour on the hour.
Advantages:
• Romantic ambiance
• Spectacular views of Paris landmarks
• Live commentary (in various languages)
Disadvantages:
• Can be a bit touristy, especially during peak seasons
• The boat ride can feel a little crowded at times
Location and How to Get There:
The Seine River cruise departs from Port de la Bourdonnais, near the Eiffel Tower. You can easily access the port via the Paris Metro, taking Line 6 to Bir-Hakeim or Line 9 to Trocadéro.
Tickets and Booking:
The price for a Seine River cruise is generally around €15-€20 per person for a one-hour ride. I recommend booking tickets online in advance to avoid the long queues, especially during peak tourist season. Popular platforms for booking include Bateaux Parisiens and Vedettes de Paris.
- Montmartre – A Stroll Through Paris’ Bohemian Heart
Personal Experience:
Montmartre has always been one of my favorite romantic spots in Paris. As I strolled through the narrow, cobblestone streets with my partner, we were surrounded by the charm of old Paris—artistic cafés, quirky boutiques, and the vibrant atmosphere that has inspired so many artists over the years. We made our way up to the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, where we admired the panoramic view of Paris below. The whole experience was like walking through a movie scene, and it felt intimate and special.
Photography Tips:
• The view from Place du Tertre, the artist square, is perfect for capturing the artistic soul of Montmartre. You can take a photo with Sacré-Cœur Basilica in the background, or focus on the artists at work.
• Rue de l’Abreuvoir is one of the most picturesque streets in Montmartre, lined with old houses and a perfect spot for romantic photos.
Advantages:
• Charming, intimate atmosphere
• Gorgeous views from the Sacré-Cœur
• Plenty of cafés and small restaurants to relax
Disadvantages:
• Montmartre is a popular tourist destination, so it can get crowded, especially around Place du Tertre.
• The steep incline can make walking up to the Sacré-Cœur Basilica tiring, but it’s worth the effort.
Location and How to Get There:
Montmartre is located in the 18th arrondissement of Paris. The closest metro station is Anvers (Line 2) or Abbesses (Line 12). You can also take a bus or simply walk from the nearby Pigalle station.
Tickets and Booking:
There is no entry fee to the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, but if you wish to visit the dome, there is a small fee (around €6). It’s best to visit early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the crowds.
- Picnic in the Luxembourg Gardens – A Peaceful Escape in the Heart of Paris
Personal Experience:
One of the most romantic and peaceful moments I shared with my partner in Paris was a picnic in the Luxembourg Gardens. This lush green space is a perfect place to escape the busy city and enjoy each other’s company. We picked up some fresh bread, cheese, and wine from a nearby bakery and sat by the pond, watching the sailboats drift. The beauty of the gardens, with its manicured lawns, fountains, and statues, made this simple moment feel magical.
Photography Tips:
• The Medici Fountain is one of the most beautiful spots in the garden, especially when it reflects in the pond.
• Take some candid photos while walking through the tree-lined paths or near the Luxembourg Palace, capturing the serenity of the park.
Advantages:
• Tranquil and picturesque setting
• Great for picnics and relaxing
• Beautiful flowers and statues to admire
Disadvantages:
• Can get busy, especially on weekends, so it’s better to visit during weekdays.
Location and How to Get There:
The Luxembourg Gardens are located in the Latin Quarter of Paris, in the 6th arrondissement. The nearest metro station is Luxembourg (Line B), and it’s also a short walk from Saint-Sulpice.
Tickets and Booking:
The gardens are free to enter, but if you wish to visit the Luxembourg Palace, there’s an entrance fee. For a relaxed picnic, no ticket is required.
- Evening at the Eiffel Tower – A Timeless Romantic Experience
Recommended Activity:
No trip to Paris would be complete without a visit to the Eiffel Tower, but for a truly romantic experience, consider visiting in the evening when the tower lights up. You can either take the elevator to the top for a panoramic view of the city or simply admire it from below. My partner and I loved watching the Eiffel Tower sparkle as the lights twinkled on the hour—there’s truly nothing more magical than that moment.
Photography Tips:
• For stunning photos, go to the Trocadéro Gardens for a wide shot of the Eiffel Tower, or try taking a picture from the Champ de Mars park beneath the tower.
• The view from the top of the Eiffel Tower is perfect for wide-angle shots of Paris’ skyline, especially at night when the city is lit up.
Advantages:
• Unbeatable views of Paris
• Romantic ambiance at night
• Plenty of photo opportunities
Disadvantages:
• Can get crowded, especially during peak hours
• The lines for the elevator can be long, so be prepared to wait
Location and How to Get There:
The Eiffel Tower is located in the 7th arrondissement near the Seine River. The closest metro station is Bir-Hakeim (Line 6), or you can take RER C to the Champ de Mars station.
Tickets and Booking:
Tickets to the Eiffel Tower start at €16-€26 for adults, depending on whether you want to go to the second floor or the top. Booking your tickets online in advance is highly recommended to avoid the long queues.
- Le Marais – A Romantic Stroll Through Paris’ Historic District
Recommended Activity:
The Le Marais district is one of the most romantic areas in Paris, filled with charming streets, beautiful boutiques, and cozy cafés. A leisurely stroll through the district’s cobbled streets with your loved one is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the romantic atmosphere of Paris. Stop at a café for a cup of coffee or enjoy some authentic French pastries in one of the district’s charming bakeries.
Photography Tips:
• The Place des Vosges, with its beautiful arcades and central garden, is perfect for a photo stop.
• Rue des Francs-Bourgeois is a lovely street to capture the vibrant energy of Le Marais, lined with shops and cafés.
Advantages:
• Quaint, romantic atmosphere
• Perfect for a leisurely day of walking
• Plenty of charming cafés and shops
Disadvantages:
• Can be crowded, especially during weekends
• Some of the boutiques can be pricey
Location and How to Get There:
Le Marais is located in the 3rd and 4th arrondissements. The nearest metro station is Saint-Paul (Line 1), and it’s also within walking distance from the Centre Pompidou.
- Day Trip to Versailles – A Royal Affair
Recommended Activity:
A day trip to the Palace of Versailles is perfect for couples who enjoy history and grand architecture. The opulence of the palace and its extensive gardens make for an unforgettable experience. The Hall of Mirrors is especially breathtaking and perfect for a romantic photo.
Paris is full of romantic experiences, from sunset cruises to quiet gardens, making it an ideal destination for couples. Whether you’re enjoying a picnic in the Luxembourg Gardens or marveling at the view from the Eiffel Tower, each moment is bound to be magical. Make sure to plan ahead, book your tickets in advance, and most importantly, take time to savor the beauty of Paris with your loved one.
