The Couple's Guide to Paris

Icon Share

SHARE

Advisor - Nikki Lakin
Curated By

Nikki Lakin

  • Paris

  • Arts & Culture

  • Couples Travel

  • City Travel

  • Local Culture

  • Local Food

  • Shopping

An aerial view of a city with a view of the Eiffel Tower.
Curator’s statement

Oozing with charm, lights and warmth, Paris is one of, if not the most romantic places in the world. If you’re thinking about taking a trip to the City of Lights with your S/O, well… what are you waiting for? Below are some ideas of how to spend unforgettable quality time with your special someone in Paris.

The Fora Difference

Book with Nikki to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.

[object Object]
Killer perks

Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you

[object Object]
Personalized recs

Customized travel planning for your style

[object Object]
Insider knowledge

Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there

Where to stay in Paris

Unlock perks by contacting Nikki to book your trip.

Things to do in Paris

A picture of a time lapse of highway during night.
  • River Cruise on the Seine: What could be more romantic than riding on a boat in Paris? Cruising along the seine is one of the most special ways to experience Paris with a loved one. I’d recommend doing this in the evening or at night to experience the beauty of the city lights.

  • Bagatelle Park: If you’re visiting outside of winter, this park sprawling with peacocks and other fun friends is not to be missed. Getting to this area of Bois de Boulogne is a trek, but it’s worth it to watch all the wildlife and take in the serenity of the grounds as you stroll arm-in-arm.

  • Perfume Making Class at Musée du Parfum Fragonard: Sure, there are classes where you can learn to make croissants and macarons, but working together to create a fragrance is an interactive sensory experience that is one-of-a-kind in Paris.

  • Tour of Palais Garnier: Of course, going to a ballet or opera at this esteemed, overly opulent monument will be unforgettable, but getting to walk through the opera house off-hours unlocks a special, intimate viewing unlike any other.

  • Musée Rodin: Visiting a sculpture garden is a much different experience than visiting an indoor art museum (which, of course, can’t be missed either in Paris). Rodin’s most famous work, The Thinker, is the first thing you’ll come across when strolling through the garden. You might also find yourself in a small, marble mansion as you peruse, housing more works. It might be a quick visit, but it cannot be missed.

  • Picnic in Parc des Buttes-Chaumont: While this less-touristy park is further from the city center, the rolling hills, beautiful views, and company of neighborhood locals make for a pleasant experience.

  • Show at the Moulin Rouge: Unique to Paris is this cabaret spectacular that is best experienced with another. Dress to the nines and enjoy a glass of champagne for a night that you won’t forget.

  • Walk from Arc de Triomphe to L’Orangerie: Experience the opulence Paris is known for by spending the morning or afternoon walking hand-in-hand from the top of the Champs Elysées, passing (and browsing, of course) the designer stores, through the whimsical florals and trees of the Tuileries, finishing at the Musée de L’Orangerie to admire the calm of Monet’s Water Lilies.

Day Trips:

Day trip to Champagne: Champagne is only about an hour north of Paris, making for the perfect day trip – and what could be more romantic than tasting the world's best bubbly alongside elegant chateaus and vineyards?

Places to eat & drink in Paris

outdoor-cafe-paris-travel-guide
  • Pink Mamma: This ornate, three-story Italian eatery delivers a delicious experience along the border of Pigalle and Montmartre.

  • Hotel Costes: The restaurant at this hotel on Rue Saint-Honoré is almost always booked, and for good reason: it’s hip, it’s exclusive – only taking bookings by phone 48 hours in advance – and, decked in red furnishings and dim lighting, it’s perfect for a gourmet romantic dinner.

  • Bar 228 at Le Meurice: There is nothing as sultry as a hotel lobby bar, especially that of the Meurice, one of the most notable luxury hotels on Rue de Rivoli. It’s a cozy hideout to leisurely sip on a nightcap and cuddle up as you enjoy the jazz or piano.

  • Experimental Cocktail Club: This discreet speakeasy is a popular date spot, thanks to its intimate, low-lit atmosphere and lounge seating that strategically fits two to a chair. Not to mention, the bartenders are incredibly friendly, which makes all the difference in a speakeasy experience, and are willing to concoct a surprise drink to your preferences outside of the menu.

  • Rosa Bonheur sur Seine: For a more upbeat date night, hop on board this boat bar next to the Pont Alexandre III. As the sun sets behind the river and the music rises, don’t be shocked if you dance the night away.

  • Frenchie Bar à Vins: Right across the street from the main restaurant of the same name, the Frenchie wine bar offers an intimate setting for sharing some small plates over a few glasses of the best wines before taking a stroll down Rue Montorgueil.

  • Bouillon Chartier: You can’t visit Paris without dining at this classic institution. Waiting in line for a table is an experience in itself. The classic, art nouveau interiors will transport you back in time – and the food won’t disappoint, either.

  • Maison Sauvage: Hidden on the charming Rue de Buci is a just-as-charming restaurant, decked in a floral facade and reminiscent of a country home. Maison Sauvage is open for all meals with generous, inviting terrace space.

Need to Know

Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, A Solo Female Traveler's Guide to Paris.

Advisor - Nikki Lakin

Travel Advisor

Nikki Lakin

Get in touch with Nikki

Did you like this guide? Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.

You can normally expect a response from Nikki within a business day or so. You’ll also be subscribed to our travel newsletter (you can unsubscribe at any time).

This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Paris.