A Complete Romantic Itinerary with Insider Tips, Foodie Delights and Hidden Gems
Paris isn’t just a city—it’s a mood, a melody, a living poem. For couples, it’s the ultimate stage for romance: cobblestone streets that whisper history, candlelit bistros that hum with intimacy, and sunsets that paint the Seine in gold. Whether it’s your first trip together or a rekindling of love, three days in Paris can feel like a lifetime of memories if you plan it right.
This guide is designed to help you savor Paris slowly, with a balance of iconic landmarks, cultural immersion, and intimate moments. Think of it as your personal love letter to the City of Light.
Day 1: Iconic Views and Romantic Strolls
Morning: Eiffel Tower Magic
- Why start here? The Eiffel Tower is the heartbeat of Parisian romance. Arrive early (before 9 AM) to avoid the long queues and enjoy the morning light shimmering on the iron lattice.
- Tip: Skip the elevator line and climb to the second floor—it’s less crowded, and the views are just as breathtaking.
- Breakfast idea: Grab fresh croissants and café au lait from a nearby boulangerie (try Boulangerie Poilâne for artisanal bread).
Midday: Seine River Cruise
- The experience: A cruise along the Seine is like flipping through Paris’s greatest hits—Notre Dame, the Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, and more glide past as you sip champagne.
- Best time: Opt for a sunset cruise for maximum romance, when the city glows and the Eiffel Tower begins its hourly sparkle.
- Tip: Choose a smaller boat company (like Vedettes du Pont Neuf) for a more intimate vibe than the big tourist barges.
Afternoon: Notre Dame & Île de la Cité
- Notre Dame: Though still under restoration, the cathedral’s Gothic grandeur is awe-inspiring. Walk around the exterior to admire the flying buttresses and gargoyles.
- Île de la Cité: Wander the medieval streets, stop at Berthillon for legendary ice cream, and soak in the atmosphere of Paris’s historic heart.
Evening: Le Marais Charm
- Why here? Le Marais is a blend of history and hipness—17th-century mansions turned into art galleries, trendy boutiques, and cozy wine bars.
- Dinner idea: Try Les Philosophes, a classic bistro with hearty French dishes.
- Romantic walk: End the night strolling hand-in-hand through Place des Vosges, Paris’s oldest planned square, glowing under lamplight.
Day 2: Art, History & Bohemian Charm
Morning: Louvre Museum Adventure
- Plan smart: The Louvre is massive—don’t try to see it all. Focus on 3–5 highlights (Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, Winged Victory of Samothrace).
- Hidden gems: Explore the less crowded sections like the Islamic Art wing or the Napoleon III Apartments for a quieter, equally stunning experience.
- Time needed: 2–3 hours minimum.
Midday: Tuileries Garden
- Perfect pause: After the Louvre, stroll into the Tuileries Garden. Grab macarons from Ladurée or gelato from Amorino and people-watch by the fountains.
- Romantic touch: Rent two green chairs, sit side by side, and watch Parisian life unfold.
Afternoon: Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur
- Montmartre magic: This hilltop neighborhood is the soul of bohemian Paris. Wander cobbled streets, discover hidden staircases, and peek into artist studios.
- Sacré-Cœur Basilica: Climb to the dome for panoramic views of the city. The sunset here is unforgettable.
- Don’t miss: Place du Tertre, where artists still paint portraits—perfect for a keepsake of your trip.
Evening: Moulin Rouge or Saint-Germain
- Option 1: Moulin Rouge for a classic cabaret show (book well in advance). It’s kitschy, glamorous, and undeniably Parisian.
- Option 2: A romantic dinner in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, the intellectual heart of Paris. Try Le Procope, the city’s oldest café, once frequented by Voltaire and Rousseau.
Day 3: Palatial Grandeur & Personal Adventures
Option A: Versailles Day Trip
- Getting there: A 40-minute RER train ride from Paris.
- What to see: The Hall of Mirrors, the King’s Apartments, and the sprawling gardens.
- Romantic highlight: Rent a rowboat on the Grand Canal for a private moment away from the crowds.
- Time needed: Half a day minimum.
Option B: Musée d’Orsay and Latin Quarter
- Musée d’Orsay: Housed in a former train station, this museum is a treasure trove of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces (Monet, Van Gogh, Degas).
- Latin Quarter: Afterward, wander through narrow streets filled with bookshops, jazz clubs, and student cafés. Stop at Shakespeare & Company, the legendary English-language bookstore.
Evening: Champs-Élysées and Arc de Triomphe
- Shopping spree: From luxury boutiques to flagship stores, the Champs-Élysées is retail heaven.
- Final sunset: Climb the Arc de Triomphe for a sweeping view of Paris at dusk. Watching the city lights flicker on is the perfect farewell.
Culinary Romance: Where to Eat in Paris
- Le Comptoir du Relais (Saint-Germain): Classic French bistro, no reservations for dinner—arrive early.
- Septime (Bastille): Michelin-starred, modern French cuisine. Book months ahead.
- Frenchie (Sentier): Seasonal, intimate, and unforgettable.
- L’As du Fallafel (Le Marais): Legendary falafel pita for a casual lunch.
- Les Cocottes (near Eiffel Tower): Chic yet relaxed, serving dishes in cast-iron pots.
- Bateaux Mouches Dining Cruise: Dinner + Seine views = pure romance.
- Café de Flore (Saint-Germain): Iconic café for people-watching with wine or coffee.
Where to Stay: Hotels for Every Couple
Luxury & Romance
- Shangri-La Paris: Former palace with Eiffel Tower views.
- Le Bristol Paris: Legendary service, rooftop pool.
- Hotel Splendide Royal: Classic Parisian elegance.
Boutique Charm
- Hôtel Le Littré: Classic style near Montparnasse.
- Hotel des Grands Boulevards: Trendy with a rooftop bar.
- Hôtel 9 Confidentiel: Chic Philippe Starck design in Le Marais.
Cozy & Budget-Friendly
- Hôtel Le Relais Saint-Germain: Small, charming, great breakfast.
- Hôtel Henri IV Rive Gauche: Simple, clean, unbeatable location.
- Hotel des Arts Montmartre: Cozy, artistic vibe in Montmartre.
Practical Tips for Couples in Paris
- Comfy shoes: You’ll walk a lot—Paris is best explored on foot.
- Metro passes: Buy a multi-day pass for convenience.
- Timing: Visit major attractions early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.
- Language: A few French phrases (“Bonjour,” “Merci,” “L’addition, s’il vous plaît”) go a long way.
- Romantic extras: Pack a small picnic (baguette, cheese, wine) and enjoy it by the Seine at sunset.