9 of the most romantic things you can do in Paris

Widely known as the City of Love, even an aimless wander around an enchanting Parisian neighborhood is bound to be filled with an air of romance. Whether you’re looking for anniversary or date ideas or just special moments you can experience together, this roundup of the most romantic things to do in Paris has you covered. From a kiss at the top of the Eiffel Tower to an exciting night of dinner and dancing at the Moulin Rouge, this selection of love-filled experiences will ensure Paris works its inimitable charm.

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The best things to do as a couple

1. Embrace at the top of the Eiffel Tower

There is no better way to begin your romantic Paris trip than by viewing the City of Love from the top of the Eiffel Tower. Soak in the views of the city’s charming neighborhoods from its tallest structure, visiting just before sunset to see Paris bathed in a golden glow. Don’t miss the spectacular light show, on the hour every hour, from sunset until 1:00 AM – one of Paris' best after-dark activities.

Insider tip:

Pay a few extra euros to take the elevator to the top. But if you prefer to look at the Eiffel Tower rather than stand on it, then head to the Place du Trocadéro for the clearest view. Or head inside the City of Architecture and Heritage Museum, a great hidden spot with a spectacular view of the Eiffel Tower and a less-crowded moment with your partner.

Opening hours:

Open from 9:30 AM until midnight, with the last entry at 10.45 PM.

2. Fall in love with the romantic lights of Sainte-Chapelle

The breathtaking Gothic architecture and detailed stained glass windows, the oldest stained glass in Paris, are just a few reasons that Sainte-Chapelle is a bucket list spot for romance. Just a stone’s throw from the beloved Notre-Dame Cathedral, Sainte-Chappelle is a worthy alternative.

Highlights:

Go on a sunny day to watch the sunlight beat through the stained glass, creating a kaleidoscope of colors. Just be sure to book in advance to skip the lines.

Address and opening hours:

10, Boulevard du Palais, 75001, Paris. Open from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM between April 1 and September 30, and 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM between October 1 and March 31.

3. Hear a historic love story at the Palace of Versailles

On the outskirts of Paris, the Palace of Versailles is the setting of one of history’s most iconic love stories, that of Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette. A guided tour of the 17th-century palace is the best way to see every inch of it. Spend time chasing your reflection in the Hall of Mirrors before a romantic rowboat ride on the Grand Canal. The palace is closed on Mondays, but the grounds are always open and free outside of days when fountain shows and concerts are held.

Opening hours:

The Palace is open every day except on Mondays, from 9.00 AM to 6.30 PM. The Park and Gardens are open every day. The opening hours for the Trianon Estate can vary by season.

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4. Take a romantic stroll through the Jardin du Tuileries

Surrounded by flowers, fountains, and a glimpse of the Eiffel Tower, it’s easy to see why wandering hand-in-hand through the Jardin du Tuileries is one of the most romantic things to do in Paris. Dating back to the 16th century and sandwiched between the Place de la Concorde and the Musée du Louvre, the garden’s vivid flowerbeds, beautiful fountains, and pathways and lawns are very inviting. There are benches and seats dotted throughout so you can stop for a moment to take it in — you’ll be able to catch a glimpse of the Eiffel Tower from here too. Watch the world go by over a picnic, catch an outdoor concert, or even have an afternoon snooze in the sun.

Address and opening hours:

Jardin du Tuileries, Place de la Concorde, 75001, Paris. The garden is open from 7.00 AM to 9.00 PM in April, May, and September, and until 11.00 PM in June, July, and August. For the rest of the year, it’s open from 7.30 AM to 7.30 PM.

5. Enjoy the skyline view from Montmartre

Montmartre is the City of Love’s beating heart, so don’t miss the chance to wander the cobbled streets of Paris’ most romantic neighborhood, making your way uphill to the Sacré-Coeur Basilica. Sat atop Paris, it’s the most picturesque place to spend an early morning watching the sunrise over the skyline that inspired Picasso and Van Gogh. When the rest of Montmartre wakes up, you’ll find artists offering to draw your portrait, but first, duck into one of the charming cafes for breakfast.

Insider tip:

Add Rue des Martyrs, Rue des Saules, and Rue Caulaincourt to your itinerary for the most picturesque stroll.

6. Picnic on the Canal Saint-Martin

Grab a bottle of wine and a few pastries and head to Canal Saint-Martin, popular with locals and tourists alike. Lined with trees and loved-locked bridges, the canal is made for lovers. Either pitch up on one of the many grassy areas to enjoy your picnic, or rent a rowboat and drift along in the afternoon sunshine.

Insider tip:

The most breathtaking stretch of the canal can be found between the Rue des Récollets and Rue Dieu.

Address:

Rue des Récollets, 75010, Paris.

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7. Dine at the Moulin Rouge

Voulez-vous manger avec moi, ce soir? The Moulin Rouge is a must for couples who want to experience a romantic night in Paris. Since 1889, the Moulin Rouge has been entertaining the public with its flamboyant dancing shows. The theater is designed so that everyone is able to intimately dine over an orchestral performance followed by the 2-hour show. With a mix of variety acts, circus and acrobatics, and dancing showgirls festooned with feathers and sparkles, it’s a feast for the eyes.

Insider tip:

There is a dress code, so avoid sportswear, sneakers, sandals, shorts, or anything overly casual.

Address and show times:

82 Boulevard de Clichy, 75018 Paris. The dinner booking begins at 7:00 PM each evening, with the show starting at 9:00 PM.

8. Take a panoramic river cruise along the Seine at sunset

A sunset cruise on the Seine River is where the City of Love meets the City of Light. Paris is most romantic at night, so surprise your loved one with a sunset dinner cruise, and watch as the surrounding landmarks transform into nighttime illuminations.

Insider tip:

If you are stretched for time, this is a great way to see the many landmarks dotted along the Seine at once. Most cruises depart from the dock next to the Eiffel Tower, the perfect location for quickly boarding your boat after your visit.

9. Watch a passionate opera at the Palais Garnier

The Palais Garnier was made for lovers, as were the world-class opera performances, telling timeless stories of love, betrayal, and tragedy. An anniversary is a wonderful excuse to dress up for a night of opulence at the opera. Book ahead to catch a thrilling performance in one of the most renowned opera houses in the world, or simply explore its majestic interior on a tour.

Insider tip:

If you’re going to show, be sure to dress the part, and arrive no later than 15 minutes before the curtain time.

Address and opening times:

Place de l'Opéra, 75009 Paris. Open to the public daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM but can often be closed for events.

FAQs

What are some unusual romantic things to do in Paris?

Try visiting the Louvre at night on Wednesday or Friday evening for a crowd-free tour, or take a walk on the Promenade Plantée, an abandoned elevated railway line turned eco-walkway.

What are the most romantic spots to watch the sunset in Paris?

For magical sunset views, grab a spot on the Pont Alexandre III, the rooftop of the Arc de Triomphe, or at the top of Montmartre by the Sacré-Coeur Basilica.

What are some romantic day trips from Paris?

Head 45 minutes outside of Paris to the sleepy Giverny, once home to French impressionist Monet. Slightly further away, visit the Loire Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site. You’ll find good wine there too.

What are the best places to take romantic photos in Paris?

For pictures that capture the Eiffel Tower, try the rooftop at Galeries Lafayette, Place du Trocadéro, and Rue Saint-Dominique. Other romantic photo spots include the Pont de Bir-Hakeim, Pont Alexandre III, or by the pyramids of the Louvre.

What is unmissable on a romantic day trip to Paris?

If you only have time for one or two stops, make sure you visit the Eiffel Tower, a symbol of romance around the globe. If you don’t have time to go up, at least get a good view of it.