From art galleries and quirky streets to the iconic Eiffel tower, Paris is undoubtedly one of the most romantic destinations on earth.
But with so many options, how do you plan an unforgettable romantic holiday? We’ve got you covered with our handy guide to the most memorable day in the City of Lights and Love.
1. Morning: breakfast at Angelina
Start off your day in true Parisian style and elegance. On the historic Rue de Rivoli, right in the heart of Paris, Angélina is a must for those who adore that most famous French delicacy: chocolate.
Its exquisite, Belle-Époque design and legacy dating back to 1903 sets the scene for some of the most delectable pâtisseries in Paris. The hot-chocolate especially, like drinking melted chocolate bars, is utterly heavenly. Angélina is an ideal way to start the day on a very sweet note.
2. Mid day: art and a picnic lunch at the Musée d’Orsay
Full to bursting with chocolate, take a nice leisurely stroll, hand-in-hand through the Musée d’Orsay. A little more manageable than the neighbouring Louvre Museum, his converted Belle-Époque train station is a wondrous sight all on its own. But housing as it does some of the most exquisite pieces of art, it is unmissable. The Impressionist wing especially inspires romance with a stunning selection of works.
Afterward, sneak back into one of the side streets to grab a baguette, cheese and a bottle of wine from one of the many boulangeries for a rustic picnic lunch in the renowned Jardin des Tuileries just across the river.
3. Afternoon: browse the bouquinistes and watch the sunset
When its warm, there’s nothing more romantic than a walk along the Seine. Browse the bouquiniste (bookseller) stalls that border the street as you meander along. You can find lovely old books of French poetry to set the heart aglow, works of art by students at the many art schools in Paris, or quirky souvenirs for you and your sweetheart.
If you’re feeling especially romantic, buy yourselves a small padlock from one of the bouquinistes, scratch your initials in it, and lock it to the railing of the Pont-des-Arts. Throwing the key in the river that glows with the light of the sun setting behind the Eiffel tower is a perfect moment to steal a kiss.
4. Evening: supper at Le Grand Véfour
For an impeccable supper, walk a short ways to Le Grand Véfour, a Michelin-starred restaurant next to the gardens of the Palais Royal.
Having kept its lavish ancient décor, this one-of-a-kind gourmet restaurant lets you eat in the romance of the 18th century. The food is a delicious combination of old and new, and the renowned chef, Guy Martin, makes sure that every bite is better than the last. Be sure to reserve a table, however, as this small restaurant bursting with French charm is a local favourite.
5. Night: ice-cream from Berthillon and champagne on the islands
Of all of Paris at night, the islands, Île-de-la-Cité and Île-Saint-Louis, rank among the most beautiful and romantic.
Celebrate with a bottle of bubbly or share some of the most sumptuous ice-cream in the city at the Maison Berthillon.Just across the Seine from the famous Notre Dame on Île-Saint-Louis, you can watch the lights of the cathedral shimmer in the river beneath the bridge. As the rest of the city gleams about you, its easy to feel that the City of Light is lit up just for you.