Paris for Couples: A 3-Day Romantic Getaway

Paris has earned its reputation as the world’s most romantic city through countless intimate moments shared along moonlit riverbanks, in candlelit bistros, and atop scenic viewpoints overlooking the City of Light. This carefully crafted itinerary weaves together iconic romantic experiences with hidden gems where couples can create their own love story against the backdrop of timeless Parisian beauty.

Day 1: Classic Romance & Evening Magic

Morning (10:00 AM – 1:00 PM): Gentle Awakening in Paris

10:00 AM – Café Culture & Croissants Begin your romantic escape with a leisurely breakfast at Café de Flore (172 Boulevard Saint-Germain), where literary couples like Simone de Beauvoir and Jean-Paul Sartre once shared morning conversations. The red banquettes and Art Deco interior create timeless Parisian atmosphere.

Order: Café au lait, pain au chocolat, and fresh orange juice while people-watching from the heated terrace

10:45 AM – Luxembourg Gardens Lovers’ Walk Stroll hand-in-hand through these perfectly manicured gardens where Parisians have courted for centuries. The tree-lined pathways, ornate fountains, and palace backdrop provide romantic photo opportunities at every turn.

Romantic highlights:

• Medici Fountain: Hidden grotto where couples toss coins and make wishes
• Rose garden: Over 170 varieties create a perfumed paradise (peak bloom May-June)
• Palace terrace: Panoramic garden views perfect for intimate conversation

Metro: RER B to Luxembourg or Line 4 to Saint-Sulpice

12:00 PM – Place Saint-Sulpice Discover this elegant square anchored by the imposing Saint-Sulpice church and its iconic fountain. The quieter atmosphere compared to tourist hotspots allows couples to enjoy peaceful moments together.

Hidden detail: The church’s astronomical gnomon creates sundial effects across the floor, adding scientific romance to spiritual beauty

Lunch (1:00 PM – 2:30 PM)

L’Ami Jean (27 Rue Malar) This intimate bistro serves exceptional Basque-influenced cuisine in a cozy setting perfect for couples. The communal atmosphere and shared plates encourage intimate dining, while the excellent wine list features romantic French varietals.

Signature dishes: Duck breast with cherry sauce, cheese course for sharing, chocolate soufflé for two

Afternoon (2:30 PM – 6:00 PM): Artistic Inspiration

2:30 PM – Musée Rodin & Sculpture Garden Explore this intimate museum dedicated to passion and human emotion through Rodin’s masterpieces. The sculpture garden provides peaceful pathways where couples can contemplate art and life together.

Admission: €14, includes garden access Must-see: “The Kiss” sculpture embodies eternal romance, while “The Thinker” overlooks rose gardens

Romantic moment: Share a bench facing “The Gates of Hell” while discussing art, dreams, and each other

4:00 PM – Left Bank Seine Stroll Walk along the river from the museum toward Notre-Dame, crossing romantic bridges and discovering riverside bookstalls. The gentle pace allows for meaningful conversation against Paris’s most scenic backdrop.

Bridge highlights:

• Pont Alexandre III: Golden statues and Art Nouveau details create fairytale atmosphere
• Pont des Arts: Pedestrian-only bridge with unobstructed Seine views
• Pont Neuf: Paris’s oldest bridge offering panoramic river vistas

5:00 PM – Île Saint-Louis Exploration Cross to this intimate island village where narrow streets, artisanal shops, and 17th-century architecture create a romantic time capsule. The island’s small scale encourages leisurely exploration hand-in-hand.

Sweet tradition: Share Berthillon ice cream (31 Rue Saint-Louis en l’Île) while sitting on the island’s tip watching boats glide past

Evening (6:00 PM – 11:00 PM): Sunset & Romance

6:00 PM – Notre-Dame Sunset Views While the cathedral undergoes restoration, the exterior and surrounding area provide romantic golden hour photography. Square Jean XXIII behind the cathedral offers peaceful garden setting with perfect views.

7:30 PM – Aperitif with a View Bar Hemingway (Ritz Paris, 15 Place Vendôme) Begin your evening with cocktails at this legendary bar where the author created his own drinks. The intimate wood-paneled setting and expert mixologists create sophisticated prelude to dinner.

Signature cocktails: Bloody Mary (Hemingway’s invention), champagne cocktails, vintage whiskeys

Dinner (8:30 PM – 11:00 PM)

Le Grand Véfour (17 Rue du Beaujolais) This historic restaurant where Napoleon courted Josephine serves exceptional French cuisine in 18th-century décor. The intimate lighting, period furnishings, and impeccable service create unforgettable romantic dining.

Romance details: Request corner banquette seating, wine pairing with seasonal menu, share dessert course

Alternative: L’Ambassade d’Auvergne (22 Rue du Grenier Saint-Lazare) – More intimate and affordable traditional bistro atmosphere

Day 2: Montmartre Magic & Evening Cruise

Morning (9:30 AM – 1:00 PM): Village Romance

9:30 AM – Montmartre Sunrise Ascent Take the funicular (€1.90) to Sacré-Cœur for spectacular morning views over Paris. Early arrival provides peaceful atmosphere before crowds gather, allowing couples private moments atop the city.

Metro: Line 12 to Abbesses, then funicular or romantic stair climb together

10:00 AM – Sacré-Cœur & Sacred Moments Explore the Romano-Byzantine basilica where couples light candles and share quiet prayers or wishes. The golden mosaics and soaring architecture inspire spiritual connection.

Romantic ritual: Light candles together in the side chapels while making private wishes for your relationship

10:30 AM – Montmartre Village Discovery Wander cobblestone streets where artistic couples have found inspiration for over a century. The village atmosphere encourages slow exploration of hidden corners and intimate cafés.

Must-see romantic spots:

• Rue de l’Abreuvoir: Paris’s most beautiful street with ivy-covered buildings
• Place Dalida: Small square dedicated to the singer with panoramic city views
• Villa Léandre: Secret residential street with English-style cottages
• Clos Montmartre: Paris’s last vineyard, visible from Rue des Saules

12:00 PM – Wall of Love (Le Mur des Je t’aime) Visit this contemporary art installation featuring “I love you” written in 250 languages. The romantic symbolism makes it a popular spot for proposals and couple photography.

Location: Jehan Rictus Square (Metro: Abbesses) Photo tip: Stand together in front of the wall holding hands for classic romantic shot

Lunch (1:00 PM – 2:30 PM)

La Maison Rose (2 Rue de l’Abreuvoir) This pink corner café where Picasso once dined maintains authentic romantic atmosphere. The sidewalk seating on Montmartre’s prettiest street creates perfect setting for long, leisurely lunch together.

Romantic details: Request corner table facing the street, share wine bottle, order multiple courses to extend your time together

Afternoon (2:30 PM – 6:00 PM): Relaxation & Spa

2:30 PM – Couples Spa Experience Le Spa at Four Seasons George V (31 Avenue George V) Indulge in couples massage and spa treatments in this luxurious setting. The tranquil atmosphere and professional treatments provide intimate relaxation time together.

Spa packages: 90-minute couples massage, private relaxation suite, champagne service Booking essential: Reserve treatments 48-72 hours in advance

Alternative: Spa Nuxe Montorgueil (32 Rue Montorgueil) – More intimate boutique spa experience with couples treatments

4:30 PM – Tuileries Garden Leisurely Stroll After spa relaxation, enjoy gentle walk through these formal gardens toward Place de la Concorde. The geometric pathways and seasonal flowers provide peaceful transition to evening activities.

Romantic benches: Scattered throughout gardens for resting and intimate conversation

5:30 PM – Place Vendôme Window Shopping Browse luxury boutiques and jewelry shops in this elegant octagonal square. Even without purchasing, the beautiful architecture and sparkling window displays create magical atmosphere.

Romance factor: Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, and other jewelry boutiques inspire dreams of eternal commitment

Evening (6:00 PM – 11:00 PM): Seine River Romance

6:00 PM – Pre-Cruise Champagne Angelina (226 Rue de Rivoli) Share famous hot chocolate and pastries at this Belle Époque tearoom. The elegant interior and decadent treats provide sweet prelude to your evening cruise.

Must-try: African hot chocolate, mont-blanc pastry, macarons

7:30 PM – Seine Dinner Cruise Bateaux Parisiens or Capitaine Fracasse Experience Paris from the water during golden hour and into the night. The illuminated monuments create magical backdrop for romantic dinner while gliding past iconic landmarks.

Cruise highlights:

• Eiffel Tower: Pass directly underneath the illuminated tower
• Notre-Dame: Dramatic floodlit views from river perspective
• Louvre: Palace facades reflected in dark water
• Bridge succession: Each bridge offers unique architectural beauty

Booking: Reserve window table for optimal views, select wine pairing menu Duration: 2.5-3 hours including dinner service Cost: €85-150 per person depending on menu selection

Romance enhancement: Many cruises offer special packages for anniversaries or proposals

Day 3: Hidden Gardens & Farewell Elegance

Morning (10:00 AM – 1:00 PM): Secret Romance

10:00 AM – Promenade Plantée (Coulée Verte) Discover this elevated park built on former railway tracks, stretching 4.7 kilometers above eastern Paris streets. The tree-lined walkway provides adventure couples can share together while escaping tourist crowds.

Metro: Line 1 to Bastille, enter near Opera Bastille Romantic elements: Tunnel passages, garden overlooks, intimate pathways through urban landscape

11:00 AM – Viaduc des Arts Explore artisan workshops housed in railway arches below the elevated park. The unique setting combines shopping with cultural discovery, perfect for finding meaningful souvenirs together.

Couples activity: Commission custom artwork or jewelry as romantic memento of your Paris getaway

11:30 AM – Place des Vosges Visit Paris’s oldest planned square featuring perfect Renaissance symmetry and covered arcades. The central park provides peaceful setting for intimate conversation surrounded by historic beauty.

Romantic tradition: Sit together in the square’s park while watching Parisian life unfold around you

12:30 PM – Jewish Quarter & Rue des Rosiers Explore this historic neighborhood where traditional culture blends with contemporary romance. The narrow medieval streets create intimate atmosphere for hand-in-hand wandering.

Lunch (1:00 PM – 2:30 PM)

L’As du Fallafel (34 Rue des Rosiers) Share outstanding falafel sandwiches from this legendary institution. Eating while walking through medieval streets creates casual, authentic Parisian experience couples remember forever.

Alternative: Breizh Café (109 Rue Vieille du Temple) – Elegant crêperie with romantic interior seating

Afternoon (2:30 PM – 6:00 PM): Final Romantic Discoveries

2:30 PM – Jardin des Plantes Explore these peaceful botanical gardens featuring diverse plant collections, greenhouses, and quiet pathways. The less touristy atmosphere allows couples to enjoy nature together.

Romantic highlights:

• Rose garden: Hundreds of varieties create perfumed paradise
• Alpine garden: Winding paths with secluded benches
• Tropical greenhouse: Exotic plants create intimate jungle atmosphere

4:00 PM – Père Lachaise Cemetery While unconventional for romance, this peaceful cemetery-park offers tree-lined paths, artistic tombs, and famous graves including Jim Morrison and Édith Piaf. The serene atmosphere encourages philosophical conversations about life and love.

Couples reflection: Visit the grave of Héloïse and Abélard, history’s most famous tragic lovers

5:00 PM – Canal Saint-Martin End your afternoon along this trendy waterway where young Parisians gather for picnics and conversation. The iron bridges and tree-lined banks provide contemporary romantic setting.

Local tradition: Bring wine and snacks for impromptu picnic along the canal banks

Evening (6:00 PM – 11:00 PM): Farewell Elegance

6:00 PM – Eiffel Tower Golden Hour Return to Paris’s most romantic symbol for your final sunset together. The Trocadéro Gardens provide classic viewing area, while Champ de Mars offers more intimate grass seating.

Photography: Hire a professional photographer for couple portraits with the tower, or use tripod for self-timer shots

7:00 PM – Tower Light Show Experience the Eiffel Tower’s hourly sparkle display while holding each other close. The magical lights create perfect romantic finale to your Parisian adventure.

8:30 PM – Farewell Dinner

Le Jules Verne (Eiffel Tower, 2nd Floor) Conclude your romantic getaway with dinner inside the Eiffel Tower itself. The Michelin-starred cuisine and unparalleled views create unforgettable finale to your Paris love story.

Booking essential: Reserve months in advance for dinner service Dress code: Elegant attire required Cost: €190-290 per person for dinner menu

Alternative: Les Ombres (27 Quai Branly) – Rooftop restaurant with direct Eiffel Tower views at more accessible prices

Romantic Accommodation Recommendations

Luxury Hotels

Le Meurice (228 Rue de Rivoli) Palace hotel with romantic suites overlooking Tuileries Garden. The spa, fine dining, and impeccable service create perfect romantic escape.

Four Seasons George V (31 Avenue George V) Elegant hotel near Champs-Élysées with flower-filled lobby, couples spa, and Michelin-starred dining.

Boutique Romance

Hotel des Grands Boulevards (17 Boulevard Poissonnière) Stylish boutique hotel with romantic rooftop bar and intimate restaurant serving modern French cuisine.

Hotel Malte Opera (63 Rue de Richelieu) Charming boutique hotel with individually decorated rooms and convenient location near major attractions.

Intimate Hideaways

Hotel des Academies et des Arts (15 Rue de la Grande Chaumière) Small boutique hotel in artistic Montparnasse with romantic garden courtyard and personalized service.

Hotel Jeanne d’Arc (3 Rue de Jarente, Le Marais) Intimate hotel in historic building with romantic exposed beams and quiet location on charming square.

Romantic Spa Experiences

La Mer Spa at Hotel de Crillon (10 Place de la Concorde) Luxurious couples treatments in historic palace setting with personalized service and premium products.

Spa Valmont at Hotel Le Lotti (7 Rue de Castiglione) Intimate spa offering couples massages, facial treatments, and private relaxation areas.

Spa Nuxe (Multiple locations) French spa brand offering couples packages with signature honey-based treatments and romantic ambiance.

Practical Romance Tips

Best Times to Visit

Spring (April-June): Perfect weather, blooming gardens, longer daylight for evening strolls Fall (September-November): Comfortable temperatures, beautiful autumn colors, fewer crowds Winter: Cozy café culture, holiday decorations, intimate indoor activities

Transportation

Walking: Paris rewards pedestrian exploration; comfortable shoes essential for romantic strolls Metro: Purchase weekly Navigo passes (€30) for unlimited transportation Taxi/Uber: Splurge on evening transportation for convenience and comfort

Money-Saving Romance

Picnic supplies: Visit markets for fresh bread, cheese, wine for romantic park dining Free activities: Gardens, bridges, street art, window shopping create romantic experiences Happy hours: Many bars offer discounted drinks 5:00-7:00 PM

Photography

Golden hours: Best lighting 1 hour after sunrise and before sunset Iconic shots: Eiffel Tower, Seine bridges, Montmartre streets provide classic couple photos Professional option: Hire photographer for 1-2 hours to capture your romantic moments

Cultural Etiquette

Dining: Reservations essential for romantic restaurants; dress elegantly for dinner Public affection: Light displays of affection welcomed; excessive PDA less accepted Language: “Bonjour” and “merci” appreciated; many romantic venues have English-speaking staff

This romantic itinerary balances iconic Parisian experiences with intimate moments that allow couples to connect deeply while exploring the world’s most romantic city. The combination of scenic beauty, cultural richness, culinary excellence, and luxurious comfort creates perfect conditions for strengthening your bond while creating memories that will last a lifetime. Paris rewards couples who embrace its leisurely pace, sophisticated pleasures, and timeless beauty – let the city’s romantic magic enhance your own love story.