The city of Paris has attracted courting couples for centuries, its streets an elegant backdrop for romantic interludes and snatched kisses. From gentle ambles hand-in-hand through leafy gardens to candlelit dinners and evening cruises, “l’amour” is sure to blossom in this fascinating city.
The best views in town
If proposals at the top of the Eiffel Tower seem old hat, how about taking in the view from the Arc de Triomphe? Climb the stairs inside this well known monument for stunning 360 degree views across the whole of Paris.
The stunning views over the city from the square in front of Sacre Coeur should not be missed but to enjoy at its best, arrive early and beat the crowds.
The Rive Gauche (Left Bank) has a reputation for being one of Paris’ most romantic districts, attracting many famous faces over the years, including Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse and Ernest Hemingway. Visitors to the Musee D’Orsay come for the views inside the restored station rather than those outside overlooking the Seine. Here you can admire an impressive collection of impressionist paintings including masterpieces from Monet, Renoir, Van Gogh, Degas and Cezanne. Other sightseeing opportunities on this side of the Seine include the Jardin du Luxemburg, the Gallo-Roman baths near Cluny and the Sorbonne.
A gentle cruise along the Seine in a Bateaux Mouche provides unique views of the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame. An evening or dinner cruise, accompanied by champagne and romantic music provides an atmospheric way to round off your sightseeing. Touristy it may be, but this is indeed a most relaxing way to discover the heart of this capital city.
Parks & Gardens
There are plenty of public parks around Paris if you fancy a quiet walk in the sunshine or to find a shady retreat from the busy city streets. The Bois de Vincennes in the 12th arrondissement is a popular weekend jaunt - relax by the lake and watch the world (and his dog) jog by.
But for a more atmospheric stroll, the formal Tuileries Gardens in the heart of Paris offer green lawns, elegant statues and shaded benches for quiet contemplation. And, when you are ready to face the world again, you’re but a short stroll away from the Louvre.
Shopping & dining
When it comes to shopping and dining venues, Paris is short of neither and there is something to suit all tastes and budgets.
The designer boutiques and elegant jewellery stores around the Place Vendome and the Rue St Honore attract the wealthiest clients; their limousines welcomed by uniformed concierge. If you are looking for an engagement ring bound to impress, head for “Van Cleef et Arpels” but, even for those resigned to window-shopping, this elegant district is still worth a visit. The underground car park alone is an experience in Parisian elegance.
Once dismissed as the poorer cousin, the Left Bank is now home to some of the smartest addresses in districts such as St-Germain-des-Près. Wandering amongst the narrow streets, you will find hidden art galleries, second-hand book stores, antique shops and boutique hotels. Enjoy a late supper amongst the bistros and bars of the lively Latin Quarter before a moonlit walk over the Pont de l’Archeveche to see the impressive spires of Notre Dame, atmospherically lit each evening.
Royal Palaces
No trip to Paris is complete without an excursion to the impressive palace of Versailles to tread in the footsteps of Louis XIV. Even if a guided tour around the ornate treasures of the palace is not to your taste, the formal gardens alone are well worth a visit. On a hot day, many people bring a picnic to relax on the lawns and simply enjoy the views of the surrounding lakes and fountains. Throughout the summer the palace also hosts a number of evening events. End your trip in royal style with an evening of music, magical illuminations and dancing fountains.
For fewer crowds and a more intimate atmosphere head for the Chateau at Fontainebleau. The high roofed pavilions house a number of richly decorated State Apartments whilst the formal gardens, woodland parks and hidden courtyards provide a relaxed atmosphere and a unique perspective on life at court.
