Paris is undoubtedly one of the most romantic destinations in the world, making it the perfect honeymoon spot for newlyweds. While the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre are must-see attractions, there’s so much more to explore in the City of Lights. From strolling along the Seine River to indulging in delicious French cuisine, Paris offers endless opportunities for romance and adventure.
This iconic city has been the inspiration for countless love stories, and it’s easy to see why. So, if you’re looking for the ultimate honeymoon experience, say “Bonjour, Paris!” and let the magic of this enchanting city sweep you off your feet.
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The Best Time to Visit Paris:
Paris is a city that can be enjoyed year-round, but each season offers a unique experience. If you’re looking for a quieter time to visit, January through March are the chilliest and least crowded months. Springtime brings blossoms to the city’s gardens, while summer offers long days and the chance to enjoy outdoor dining. September and October are considered the best months to visit, with cooler temperatures and Paris Fashion Week in full swing. Finally, November and December bring holiday cheer and delicious French treats. No matter when you go, Paris is always a good idea.
What to See & Do In Paris:
Montmartre
Located in the 18th arrondissement of Paris, Montmartre is a hilltop neighbourhood that offers breathtaking city views. Montmartre has long been a haven for artists, and you can still have your portrait painted or enjoy a leisurely afternoon at a café.
If you’re looking for a romantic spot in Paris, look no further than the Wall of Love, or Le Mur Des Je T’aime, which happens to be in Montmartre. This famous wall features the words “I love you” written in over 250 languages, making it the perfect place to express your love in a unique way. Created by Frederic Baron and Claire Kito, the Wall of Love has become a popular meeting place for lovers from all over the world. Whether you’re on your honeymoon or just looking for a cute date spot, this artistic installation is sure to charm you with its sweet sight and loved-up couples. Located at Square Jehan Rictus, Place de Abesses, Butte Montmartre 75018 Paris, the Wall of Love is a must-visit attraction for anyone visiting the City of Love.
Built from white travertine stone, Sacre-Couer Basilica is a stunning architectural masterpiece that offers visitors an unparalleled view of the city of Paris. As you ascend the steps to the top, you’ll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views that are especially magical at sunset when the streetlights flicker on. It’s the perfect spot for a honeymoon photo backdrop, and if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the Eiffel Tower’s glittering light show from the steps. Despite the crowds of tourists, the enchanting views make a visit to Sacre-Couer an unforgettable experience.
Top off the night with dinner in a charming little bistro (there are many straight-from-a-storybook options here) and let the live music spilling out from Montmatre’s bars guide you to your final port of call.
Must-See Monuments & Museums
For a sight that will really take your breath away and stop you in your tracks, visit Sainte Chapelle in Ile de la Cite. When you first step into this dimly-lit Gothic royal church you’ll think oh yeah, nice. But its when you climb the winding steps to its upper level that you’ll realise this isn’t ‘just another church’.
Depicting 1,113 scenes from the bible and stretching 15 metres high, 15 technicolour stained glass windows line the church’s exterior and make you feel totally and utterly small in comparison. The impressive feat took seven years to build, so it’d be simply rude not to include it on your itinerary.
Related: The Ultimate Guide to the Most Romantic Things to Do in Paris
While you’re still soaking up the culture, stroll over to Musée d’Orsay on the left bank of the Seine. A unique and light space, this famous museum is dedicated to art from the Impressionism, Realism, Art nouveau, Symbolism and Academism movements. If this is all gobbledygook to you, don’t worry – and don’t be put off from visiting. Here you’ll find world-famous works from the likes of Monet, Pissarro, Van Gogh, Renoir, Cezanne and Rodin – perhaps most notably, Bal du Moulin de la Galette by Renoir, Self-Portrait by Van Gogh and the sigh-inducing Blue Water Lilies by Monet.
Centre Pompidou, also known as Beaubourg, is a modern art museum located in the heart of Paris. Its unique architecture, with exposed pipes and air ducts, sets it apart from the city’s more traditional landmarks. The museum boasts the largest collection of modern art in Europe, second only to MoMA in New York in terms of breadth and quality. When it opened in 1977, the concept of combining a museum, library, exhibition and performance space, and cinema in one complex was groundbreaking and has since influenced art institutions worldwide.
Located on a small island in the midst of the stunning Versailles field, the Temple of Love is a renowned neo-classical structure and a top destination for couples seeking a romantic getaway. This Parisian gem is said to be one of the most romantic places in the city, and for good reason. Its serene surroundings and breathtaking architecture make it a feast for the eyes, while the tradition of kissing your partner at the center of the temple is believed to strengthen your love and relationship. For couples embarking on their first honeymoon in Paris, there’s no better place to experience the magic of love.
It goes without saying that you need to put three go-to sights (the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre and the Arc De Triumphe) on your Paris Honeymoon must-see list. So, while we recommend seeing these famous landmarks, especially if it is your first time in Paris, we won’t rehash these well-covered Parisian sites here, with plenty already written about them elsewhere! While these sites are worth visiting, exploring lesser-known attractions will add a unique element to your Parisian honeymoon.
Related Article (read this if you want to skip the typical tourist sites!): See Paris Like a Local
Visit Père Lachaise Cemetery
On the other side of the Seine, there’s a bittersweet and beautiful place you have to visit. The most visited cemetery in the world, Père Lachaise Cemetery hosts the graves of Chopin, Colette, Proust, Maria Callas, Georges Bizet and – a true Parisian icon in her own right – Edith Piaf. Lining the cobbled streets are grand tombs and structures dedicated to some of history’s most influential people, including but not limited to Jim Morrison.
A tradition you have to partake in while here though is leaving a white lily at the grave of author, poet and tortured soul, Oscar Wilde.
Visit Famous Gardens, Parks & Plazas
Paris is known for its picturesque gardens, parks, and plazas, but there are a few must-see spots that should not be missed. Jardin de Tuileries, located across from the Louvre, is a beautiful park where visitors can relax on chairs around the central fountain, stroll down pathways lined with topiary, or take a ride on the Ferris wheel for stunning views of the city. Another great option is Place des Vosges, a historic park in the trendy Le Marais neighborhood. Surrounded by 17th-century-style buildings housing cafes and galleries, this park is a favorite among locals and offers a quieter, less touristy atmosphere than other parks in the city.
Where to Shop in Paris:
Arguably the fashion capital of the world, Paris is perhaps most famous for its labels and designers, so we wouldn’t blame you if you wanted to pick up a souvenir or five during your stay. Paris is a shopper’s paradise, with a plethora of options for every taste and budget. From high-end designer boutiques to vintage shops and flea markets, there’s something for everyone. Locals recommend hitting the stores during the famous “soldes” (sales) to snag the best deals. And if you’re looking for a department store experience, Parisians swear by their favorite “grand magasin.”
Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré
Near the famous Champs-Elysées in Paris, rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré is a street known for its exclusive fashion boutiques. The flagship store of Hermès can be found at number 24, while the eastward extension of the street, Rue Saint-Honoré, is also home to many fashion stores. This 2km street blends old-world elegance and contemporary luxury with stunning architecture, chic stores, upscale boutiques, great restaurants, and some of the city’s best luxury hotels. Conveniently located near popular tourist attractions like the Louvre Museum and the Palais Présidentiel de L’Élysée, Rue Saint-Honoré is a must-visit destination for fashion lovers. Take the Paris metro to Concorde or Madeleine stations to reach the street.
Shopping in Saint-Germain des Prés, Sèvres-Babylone, rue de Rennes
If you’re looking for a shopping adventure in Paris, make sure to visit the trendy districts of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Sèvres-Babylone, and rue de Rennes. From high-end fashion to ready-to-wear, these areas have it all. Rue de Rennes is home to popular brands like Etam, H&M, and Kookaï. Meanwhile, on boulevard Saint-Germain and nearby streets, you’ll find the window displays of top couturiers like Giorgio Armani, Christian Dior, Ralph Lauren, A.P.C., Carven, Vicomte A., and Jérôme Dreyfuss for bags. Even designer Karl Lagerfeld has a shop on boulevard Saint Germain. Other brands in the area include Station JAGVI, Caroll, Havaianas, and Ice Watch.
Located in the heart of St Germain, Le Bon Marche is a shopping destination that offers a wide range of products for locals and tourists alike. From high-end fashion for both men and women to a carefully curated bookshop, homeware section, and floors dedicated to cosmetics and children’s items, Le Bon Marche has it all. Additionally, the Grande Epicerie fine food hall is a must-visit for foodies. During the holiday season, the fairy light decor on the escalators and festive window displays are a sight to behold. It’s no wonder that Le Bon Marche has become an institution in the area.
Smallable
With a large kids showroom and a women’s multi-brand boutique located on rue du Cherche-Midi, Smallable offers a funky selection of clothing brands, homeware, accessories, and toys for both children and women. The store features young designers from all over the world alongside iconic brand names, providing a unique and regularly restocked selection. Smallable also offers the latest trends in contemporary décor and must-know designers, weaving them through selections from major fashion houses and creative labels to provide an inspiring and innovative shopping experience. Visit Smallable at 81, Rue du Cherche-Midi in Paris.
Librairie Galignani
For over two centuries, Librairie Galignani has been a beloved destination for English-speaking book lovers in Paris. Established in 1801 by Giovanni Gagliani, a member of a prominent publishing family, the bookstore has been run by six generations of the Galignani family. Today, it is considered not only the oldest English bookshop on the continent but also one of the most elegant in the city. Located on rue de Rivoli 224 since 1856, the store’s interiors are a testament to its rich history, with tall mahogany bookshelves and wheeled ladders to help customers reach the highest shelves. Visitors can browse a wide range of English and French literature, as well as history, fashion, design, and travel books in both languages.
Reu Du Commerce
Rue du Commerce is a hidden gem in Paris, known for its charming atmosphere and great selection of shops. Located in the 15th arrondissement, just a short walk from the Eiffel Tower, this street is a favorite among locals looking for the latest trends at affordable prices. With over 100 shops to choose from, there’s something for everyone here. One must-visit spot is Monoprix, located at the corner of Rue du Commerce and Boulevard de Grenelle. This Parisian department store offers a wide range of products, from fashion and beauty to home decor and groceries. After a visit to Monoprix, continue down Rue du Commerce to discover popular brands like Sephora, Gap, and L’Occitane, as well as smaller boutiques like Princesse Tamtam and Comptoir des Cotonniers.
Where to Stay for Your Honeymoon in Paris
Hôtel Plaza Athénée
If you’re going for an all-out, pull-out-all-the-stops getaway, book a room at Hôtel Plaza Athénée (on Avenue Montaigne). For those looking to splurge on a romantic honeymoon in Paris, the Hôtel Plaza Athénée is the ultimate destination. This luxurious hotel is steeped in classic Parisian charm, from the ornate cornicing and red-canopy balconies to the silver-clad tables adorned with delicious pastries. Couples can choose from a variety of stunning views, including charming courtyard scenes, Haussmann facades, and even glimpses of the iconic Eiffel Tower. Indulge in lazy breakfasts in bed, relaxing couple massages, and afternoon glasses of rosé in the picturesque courtyard. This high-end hotel offers everything you would expect from a Parisian luxury experience, including sumptuous suites, impeccable bars, and the ultra-glamorous Alain Ducasse restaurant.
Discover more chic and romantic Paris hotels with this article.
La Réserve Paris – Hotel and Spa
For honeymooners seeking a luxurious and intimate escape from the city, La Réserve Paris – Hotel and Spa offers a personalised experience in opulent accommodations that feel more like a private mansion than a hotel. Located between Avenue Montaigne and Rue du Faubourg St-Honoré, this stunning property boasts breathtaking views of the Eiffel Tower, the Pantheon, and the Grand Palais. The spa is a must-visit, with treatments and amenities that will make you want to spend the whole day there. The hotel is also surrounded by a curtain of trees, preserving the area’s intimacy and providing a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city.
Full of romantic sights, culture and world-renowned icons, Paris is one of those places that casts a spell over you. A destination that never loses its glamour, this truly beautiful city is well worth discovering.
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