Romantic Things to Do in Paris: Our Best Tips for Couples

Romantic Hotels in Paris

Terrass Hôtel

The Montmartre neighborhood is incredibly romantic in its own right, but the Terrass Hôtel takes things up a notch.

This four-star hotel in a 19th-century townhouse doesn’t just have great, modern rooms — it also offers a jaw-dropping view of Paris.

At breakfast on the rooftop terrace — which leaves nothing to be desired — you look straight out at the Eiffel Tower.

Some of the rooms also give you a view of the iron lady. They’re a bit pricier than the other rooms, but if a view of the Eiffel Tower isn’t romantic, what is?

Book the Terrass Hôtel

Hotel Paris j'Adore & Spa

Tucked away in the 17th arrondissement, this stylish boutique hotel instantly wins couples over.

The rooms are modern, high-end, and many come with a whirlpool tub — perfect for an evening soak. Mornings bring a lovingly prepared breakfast, and in the evenings you can enjoy a cozy dinner with your partner at the restaurant.

The intimate Le Spa, j’Adore! invites you to indulge in couples massages and relaxing hours in the hammam.

With the metro and charming street cafés just around the corner, the hotel is also an ideal base for romantic Parisian strolls.

Book the Paris j’Adore Hotel & Spa

Hôtel D'Aubusson

On the lively quayside in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, this classic Parisian hotel feels tailor-made for couples in love.

Elegant living-room vibes, a legendary jazz bar, and cozy rooms create an instant “at home together” feeling.

Highlight: the elegant indoor pool with sauna and spa area — perfect for shared moments of relaxation after a day of sightseeing.

And it’s just a few steps to the Seine, great cafés, and the Louvre — ideal for strolling hand in hand through the heart of Paris.

Book the Hôtel D’Aubusson
Find more hotel tips for Paris here:

Romantic Tours in Paris

When it comes to tours, you’ve got some great options. Seine cruises are most atmospheric in the evening, but honestly they’re a real highlight during the day too.

For even more private time together, a private tour is the way to go — super exclusive and well worth it.

Atmospheric Boat Rides on the Seine

A boat ride is always romantic. In Paris, you can take in the city from the water on a cruise along the Seine.

We think these rides are most beautiful at sunset. That way, you get to enjoy Paris in daylight at the start of the trip, then catch the nighttime illumination of the historic landmarks as the evening sets in.

Book tickets for a classic Seine River cruise

Book tickets for an evening Seine dinner cruise

If you prefer something more private, you can rent a boat just for the two of you. That’s considerably more expensive than a standard cruise — expect to pay around 470 euros for two people for a two-hour trip.

Food and drinks aren’t included, but you’re welcome to bring your own. That’s where the picnic gear comes in handy.

Book a private Seine River boat tour

City Tour for Two in a 2CV

Of course, Paris tours aren’t limited to the Seine — there’s plenty to explore on land too.

For a seriously romantic outing for two, check out the rides in the iconic French 2CV. Along the way, you’ll get to see landmarks pretty much all to yourselves — like the Arc de Triomphe, the Eiffel Tower, and Notre Dame.

Book a Paris city tour in a 2CV
Find more unique guided tours in Paris here

The Most Beautiful Spots & Museums for Couples in Paris

The Wall of Love: Mur de je t’aime

A must-see for couples is the Wall of Love in Montmartre. Tucked away in a small garden at the Place des Abbesses, you’ll find the wall where “I love you” is written in 250 languages.

Our tip: Head to the Wall of Love early in the morning — that way, the romantic wall won’t yet be overrun by tour groups.
Metro station: Abbesses

The Romantic Photo Spot: Pont de Bir-Hakeim

Not far from the Eiffel Tower, the Bir-Hakeim bridge crosses the Seine. The bridge itself is already a real showstopper, but with the Eiffel Tower in the background it’s even more picturesque. Marlon Brando famously walked across this bridge in Last Tango in Paris.

Our tip: At sunset, the light on the iron Pont de Bir-Hakeim is even more beautiful.
Metro station: Bir-Hakeim

Dancing on the Banks of the Seine

If you enjoy dancing, in the summer you absolutely have to make an evening detour to the banks of the Seine near the Jardin des Plantes on weekends.

In the coves along the riverbank, people dance salsa, tango, waltz, and bachata. Everyone is welcome — just join the crowd. Right by the river, the music creates an extraordinary atmosphere.

Note: There’s no bar or anything like that here. Occasionally someone will walk by selling beer. If you prefer wine, just bring your own bottle and cups. Don’t forget the corkscrew!

Look for the Jardin Tino-Rossi at Quai Saint-Bernard 2 and you can’t miss it.

Coming from the metro station, you’ll need to cross the river via the Pont de Sully. From the bridge, you should be able to see the dancers on your left.

Musée de la Vie Romantique

The name says it all: at the Musée de la Vie Romantique, pure romance awaits. On display are art, antique furniture, jewelry, and literature from the 19th century. Admission is free.

Take your time wandering through the museum and make a stop in the idyllic garden. The museum and garden are tucked away off the street — you’ll step into a little oasis of calm.

Musée Rodin

The ultimate artistic masterpiece on the theme of love is Rodin’s sculpture The Kiss. Because of its fame, the sculpture has been copied many times since it was created in 1880. But the original stands — where else? — in the City of Love.

In an 18th-century French aristocratic mansion, you’ll find the Musée Rodin, home to the famous sculpture. There’s much more of Rodin’s work to discover here too, including The Thinker in the museum’s garden.

Book Musée Rodin tickets online

By the way: The Musée Rodin is included in all Paris passes. For more information about the passes and whether they’re worth it for you, check out our article Comparing the Paris Passes.

The Best Spots for a Picnic in Paris

A picnic in Paris is always a great idea in summer — and especially so for couples. Sitting in the Parisian sun with French goodies is seriously romantic, and one of the most enjoyable romantic things to do in Paris.

So you don’t forget anything, here’s our picnic checklist:

• Baguette
• Cheese
• Grapes
• Mini salami
• Macarons
• Strawberries
• Wine
• Water
• Napkins
• Wet wipes for sticky grape fingers
• Thin blanket
• Wine cups

Also remember to bring a knife — for the cheese, for example. Keep in mind, though, that a knife won’t get you through security at museums or similar venues.

Either bring it back to the hotel after your picnic, or be prepared to possibly lose the knife.

Place des Vosges: Among the Locals

Our favorite picnic spot is the Place des Vosges. Surrounded by elegant townhouses, you can settle in on the green square whenever the weather is nice.

At Rue Saint-Antoine 71, not far from the Place des Vosges, there’s a Monoprix supermarket where you can pick up everything you need.

You’ll also find the free museum “Maison de Victor Hugo” right at the Place des Vosges — the former home of the author.

Metro station: Saint-Paul

Read more about the museums in Paris here:

Champs de Mars: By the Eiffel Tower

Right at the Eiffel Tower, on the Champs de Mars, you can also spread out your picnic. The vast green lawn between the tower and the École Militaire is perfectly suited for it.

At the École Militaire metro station, there’s a Carrefour City supermarket at Avenue de la Motte-Picquet 42, where you can grab everything you need.

Metro station: École Militaire

Jardin du Luxembourg: Plenty of Shade

In summer, 95°F in Paris is not unusual. A picnic in full sun isn’t much fun in that case. In the Jardin du Luxembourg you’ll find plenty of spots under trees where you can comfortably hang out even in tropical temperatures.

The park is really popular with locals, who can often be found there themselves enjoying wine, baguette, and camembert.

Just a few steps from the Jardin du Luxembourg there’s a Carrefour Express supermarket at Rue de Vaugirard 31.

Metro station: Rennes or Saint-Placide

Square du Vert-Galant: On the Seine

At the western tip of the Île de la Cité, you’ll find a small green space not far from Notre Dame Cathedral. You can spread out on the lawn there, or sit right on the cobblestone riverbank.

Our tip: This is also where the Vedettes de Pont Neuf boats depart. You can combine your picnic with a one-hour boat tour on the Seine. But do the picnic first — otherwise the cheese will stink up your bag during the boat ride. Trust us. We’re speaking from experience.

The nearest supermarket is Franprix at Rue Bertin Poirée 16.

Metro station: Pont Neuf

Special Restaurants in Paris

La Taverne de Montmartre

A little off the tourist trail, the Taverne is tucked away at Rue Gabrielle 25.

And “taverne” is exactly the right word for it. The place has a wonderfully rustic, traditional décor.

I always half-expect d’Artagnan to come leaping through the stained-glass window, and I’m pretty sure you could still pay in sestertii here.

But it’s not just the great food in a wonderful atmosphere that makes it worth a visit — the prices are also very reasonable by Parisian standards. You can get a set menu for as little as 16 euros.

On the menu you’ll find French plated dishes, raclette, fondue, cheese fondue, French onion soup, escargot, and apple cake.

Le Relais Odeon

In the centuries-old historic alley Cour du Commerce Saint-André in Saint-Germain, Le Relais Odéon welcomes you. Inside in a modern bistro style or out on the terrace, French cuisine and burgers await.

Main courses range from 16 to 26 euros. The quiet outdoor seating area, set back from the main street, makes it an excellent spot for an evening out for two.

Le Train Bleu

The famous restaurant Le Train Bleu at the Gare de Lyon is the upscale choice for a dinner in Paris. In the historic and elegant Le Train Bleu, you’ll dine romantically beneath chandeliers and frescoes in an impressive setting.

The rooms of the restaurant are truly incredible — you’ll feel as though you’ve been personally invited to dine with the Sun King himself.

Main courses start at 35 euros. For 65 euros you get a six-course menu. Honestly, I think the value for money on this menu is genuinely outstanding.

At the adjoining bar and lounge, in addition to drinks, light bites like sandwiches and salads are also on the menu starting at 20 euros.

If you’re not all that hungry, that might work for you — though the downside is that you won’t be seated in the magnificent dining hall, which is really the standout feature.

The Restaurants on the Eiffel Tower

When it comes to paris for couples, the Eiffel Tower can’t be left out!

Not only can you climb the tower hand in hand with your loved one — you can even have lunch or dinner right on the Eiffel Tower.

On the first floor, Madame Brasserie awaits you — the new Parisian brasserie led by chef Thierry Marx. On the second floor, you’ll find the upscale restaurant Jules Verne.

For detailed information about both restaurants, check out our article about the Eiffel Tower.

Cafés, Wine Bars & Cabaret for Quality Time Together

Bistrot Vivienne

Bistrot Vivienne is a wonderful spot for couples right in the center of Paris. It’s part of the Galerie Vivienne, a 19th-century covered arcade that you absolutely have to walk through at least once.

Don’t sit at the tables by the street — the traffic makes it quite noisy there. Head either inside the bistro or to the tables set within the arcade itself. The spot inside the arcade is our personal favorite.

Treat yourself to a cheese plate in the afternoon for 12 euros — it’s great for sharing between two. Add a kir for 5.50 euros and the romantic snack break is complete.

Our tip: Walk from the Louvre through the Palais Royal gardens to the Galerie Vivienne — it’s the most beautiful route.

Chez Georges

Another great spot for a snack or a full dinner is the wine bar Chez Georges, tucked into the romantic lanes of Saint-Germain. There are no white tablecloths here — instead, you’ll find a rustic, authentic, and very warm atmosphere.

At this quintessentially French wine bar, a cheese plate is of course always on the menu. But alongside it there’s a constantly changing selection of small plates, such as boeuf bourguignon, cassoulet, or hummus. In summer you can treat yourself to a refreshing sangria; in winter, often mulled wine.

Early in the evening it’s on the quieter side. But later in the night, people tend to dance between the tables.

Chez Georges is not just a wine bar but also a delicatessen. You can stock up on all kinds of goodies to take home or as gifts. The cassoulet and boeuf bourguignon are also available to go in preserving jars.

Le Relais de la Butte

For a coffee or wine with a view, head to the Relais de la Butte in Montmartre. The outdoor seating puts you in one of the most beautiful, leafy squares in Montmartre with a fantastic panorama over the city.

Stop here for a break during your stroll through Montmartre with your partner and take it all in.

Our tip: You can also eat very well at the Relais de la Butte. For that, though, it’s better to sit inside. Eating at the small tables outside is pretty awkward since they’re very uneven. Montmartre is a hill, after all.

Cabaret Paradis Latin

An evening at a cabaret in Paris is of course something special.

Even though the Moulin Rouge is by far the most famous of the Parisian cabarets, we can’t recommend it for couples looking for a special evening.

The show at the Moulin Rouge is great, no question! But unfortunately the audience often consists of huge tour groups dropped off by double-decker buses. The hectic atmosphere that builds up unfortunately kills the romance.

It’s a completely different story at the Paradis Latin. There, a night at the cabaret is still the glamorous evening it’s meant to be. About 70 percent of the audience is French or even Parisian — which says a lot.

From the outside, the Paradis Latin doesn’t look all that grand, but inside — designed by Gustave Eiffel — a spectacular show awaits you beneath antique chandeliers in a wonderful setting.

Book Paradis Latin tickets online

The Best Brunch in Paris

Parisian Bistro Style: Maison Rouge

On Saturdays and Sundays, the Maison Rouge in the center of Paris offers a fantastic brunch. For 38 euros, you can help yourself to the buffet as much as you like.

There are crêpes, brioche, baguette, yogurt, fruit salad, cold cuts, mushrooms, a chocolate fountain, and much more.

Our tip: Word has gotten out about this great brunch, so it’s always busy. Your best bet is to arrive either at 11:00 AM or at 1:30 PM.

Those who arrive at 11:00 AM will be asked to start wrapping up around 1:30 PM to make room for the next wave of guests.

Alternative: La Récyclerie

An alternative brunch pick is La Récyclerie on the northern edge of the city. In the old station building, they serve what’s grown just below the windows on the disused railway track.

On Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays there’s a brunch that you put together yourself at the bar. There’s no buffet — you essentially order everything you want in one go at the bar.

At the bar you’ll find hot drinks, juices, bread, and jam. You can also go back for more of those later as much as you like.

In addition, you order your selection just once from the kitchen window: cheese, cold cuts, salmon, muffins, eggs, salad, cornflakes, and much more.

By the way: La Récyclerie is open daily and has plenty of vegetarian options at lunch and dinner!