Paris, the capital of France, is renowned as one of the most romantic cities in the world. With its beautiful architecture, charming cafes, and atmosphere of joie de vivre, it’s no wonder Paris is many couples’ top choice for celebrating Valentine’s Day in Paris. If you want to treat your loved one to an unforgettable Valentine’s Day, Paris is guaranteed to sweep them off their feet.
Making Valentine’s Day Plans
If it’s your first time visiting Paris for Valentine’s Day, planning your perfect romantic day can feel daunting. But don’t worry – I’m here to walk you through everything you need to know to make this Valentine’s Day one you’ll cherish forever.
The first step is deciding when to visit Paris. Valentine’s Day itself, February 14th, is of course the most popular option. However, hotels and restaurants tend to be more expensive and crowded on the holiday itself. Visiting on the weekend before or after February 14th can be a great way to avoid some of the crowds and save money on accommodations.
Next up is booking your flights and hotel. Look for a centrally located hotel near attractions you want to visit. Requesting a room with a balcony or Eiffel Tower view can make it extra special. Don’t forget to check for any Valentine’s Day specials or packages at hotels.
Once you’ve booked the basics, it’s time to think about how to spend your precious time in Paris. Top romantic Valentine’s Day activities in Paris include:
Romantic Sightseeing
- Strolling hand-in-hand across the dreamy Pont des Arts “Love Lock Bridge” over the Seine
- Admiring the views of the city from the top of the Arc de Triomphe
- Wandering together through the peaceful sculpture gardens of the Rodin Museum
- Taking a romantic cruise along the Seine River at golden hour to admire Paris’ monuments
Intimate Dinners and Cafés
- Enjoying a cozy Valentine’s dinner for two at a Parisian bistro with rich French cuisine, flowers, and candlelight
- People-watching at a quaint Montmartre café over hot chocolates, macarons, and sweet crêpes
- Picnicking on the grassy lawns of Luxembourg Garden surrounded by lush natural beauty
Special Valentine’s Experiences
- Attending a jazz concert with your love at a small Parisian music club
- Taking a couples’ chocolate-making class and indulging in your sweet creations
- Raising a toast at champagne tasting together to celebrate your relationship
With so much romantic opportunity, prioritizing your interests will help craft the perfect Valentine’s Day in Paris itinerary. Leave time for wandering side streets hand-in-hand, stopping to steal kisses in front of stunning landmarks.
Romantic Accommodation Ideas
Selecting the right accommodation is an important part of setting the scene for romance. Here are some of my top recommendations for intimate and memorable lodging options for two on Valentine’s Day:
Boutique Hotels
Paris is home to many small, design-focused boutique hotels where couples can escape in stylish privacy. For example, Le Pavillon des Lettres is a literary-themed hotel with individually decorated rooms, some with large soaking tubs perfect for two. The Grand Pigalle Hotel has a sexy rock’n’roll vibe with its hip bar and modern decor.
Apartment Rentals
Renting a Parisian apartment for Valentine’s Day allows you to live like a local. Self-catering lets you enjoy intimate picnics and meals alone together. Sites like Haven in Paris offer stylish apartment rentals in central neighborhoods, complete with fully-equipped kitchens, living areas, and amenities like WiFi and laundry.
Luxury Hotels
For ultimate pampering and romance, consider booking a luxurious suite at a five-star Paris hotel. The Shangri-La Hotel offers impeccable Eiffel Tower views from sumptuous rooms. The Peninsula Paris has stunning indoor pools and features romantic walk-in closets leading to marble bathrooms. Endless little luxuries make a lavish hotel special for Valentine’s celebrations.
Small Hotels
Small, indie hotels provide cozy rooms that feel like Parisian sanctuaries made for two people in love. Hidden gems like the Hotel Certain or the Grand Hotel du Palais Royal offer plush beds, great location, attentive service, and excellent breakfasts enjoyed in bed or in quaint lounge areas.
With the right intimate hotel choice, you’re guaranteed memorable nights during your Paris Valentine’s getaway.
Top Dinners for Two on Valentine’s Day
One of the most important elements for romance on Valentine’s Day is planning a special dinner just for the two of you. Fortunately, Paris has no shortage of restaurants serving up stunning settings, mouthwatering cuisine, and bespoke menus designed for lovebirds.
Fine Dining
For a truly luxurious culinary experience, book a table at one of Paris’ Michelin-starred fine dining establishments. Places like the ornately elegant Le Meurice Restaurant prepare exquisite French meals with premium ingredients. Or savor Chef Yannick Alléno’s cuisine at the intimate Alléno Paris in the lavish Pavillon Ledoyen.
Neighborhood Bistros
Local Parisian bistros offer a cozy, authentic ambiance for Valentine’s dinner. Bistrot Paul Bert and L’Avant Comptoir are two quintessential small bistros frequented by locals, with classic French comfort food and natural wines. Reserve for an early seating to guarantee a table.
Romantic Views
Dining with a stunning city vista sets the mood for romance. 58 Tour Eiffel sits high up within the Eiffel Tower itself, surrounding diners with impressive panoramas. Or watch the lights of Paris sparkle from the sophisticated Le Ciel de Paris restaurant as you dine.
Prix Fixe Menus
Many restaurants offer special Valentine’s Day prix fixe menus at an attractive set price. This allows you to sample several courses as you indulge. For example, La Belle Armée near the Champs-Elysées serves a multi-course Valentine’s menu with choices like scallops, duck, and soufflé.
With Paris’ amazing culinary scene, narrowing down restaurant options is tough! Make reservations well in advance, and let the chef know you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day when booking. A meal you’ll remember forever is guaranteed.
Romantic Valentine’s Day Activities
In addition to wining and dining your Valentine, Paris offers endless activities for couple-bonding and romance if you can bear to leave your hotel room. Here are some of my top suggestions:
Cruise the Seine
A boat tour along the River Seine allows you to snuggle up with your sweetheart and admire Paris’ beautiful monuments from a unique vantage point on the water. Bateaux Parisiens’ Valentine’s cruise includes live music and a glass of champagne – perfect for toasting with your love.
Mount to Montmartre
Wandering the charming hilly streets of bohemian Montmartre is quintessentially romantic. Stop to admire the sweeping views from the steps of the iconic Sacré-Coeur basilica and sip cocktails at a cozy nearby café.
Stroll Hand-in-Hand
Simply walking hand-in-hand with your Valentine through Paris’ neighborhoods and parks creates beautiful memories. Meander through the sculpture-filled Tuileries Garden, people-watch in the lively Latin Quarter, or get lost in the paths of the Luxembourg Gardens.
Get Creative at a Class
Take a chocolate-making or macaron-baking class together for a fun couples’ activity. Or unwind side-by-side with a couples’ massage class. There are so many hands-on classes in Paris to enjoy with your Valentine.
See a Show
Attend an intimate jazz concert in a small club or check out a darling independent theatre’s production to share an immersive cultural experience. For example, your love is guaranteed to appreciate a sultry burlesque cabaret show.
The City of Light has endless options for magical shared moments with your Valentine. Prioritize connecting through new experiences that make your souls feel intertwined.
Romantic Touches to Make It Special
From luxurious accommodation to exquisite cuisine, Paris pulls out all the stops when it comes to romance. But you can add your own personal touches to make this Valentine’s Day in Paris truly meaningful and remarkable for you and your love.
Customize Your Plans
Personalize your Parisian getaway by incorporating activities and experiences that hold special meaning in your relationship, whether it’s returning to a favorite restaurant or strolling through “your song’s” arrondissement. Share what made you fall in love by doing it together.
Surprise Thoughtful Touches
Surprise your partner with small thoughtful gifts and gestures during your trip. Have flowers or champagne delivered to your hotel room, slip a sweet handwritten card into their coat pocket, or wake them up with croissants in bed. These loving surprises make your partner feel cherished.
Capture Every Moment
Don’t forget to take lots of couple’s photos all around Paris’ romantic backdrops to look back on joyfully. Print your favorite shot from the trip to frame as a lovely memento. Looking at photos together sustains the trip’s romance even after you return home.
Speak from the Heart
Valentine’s Day is the perfect opportunity to thoughtfully express what your partner means to you. Share from your heart – whether in a handwritten love letter, whispered sweet nothings, or over a sincerely adoring toast at dinner. Those words, and having your partner hear them, will become priceless memories.
By incorporating meaningful personal touches that reflect your unique relationship and love, your Parisian Valentine’s Day is guaranteed to be extraordinary.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Paris For Valentine’s Day
Here are answers to some common questions couples have about spending Valentine’s Day in Paris:
What is the weather like in Paris in February?
February weather in Paris is generally cool, with average temperatures around 45°F/7°C. There is a chance of rain, so be prepared with layers, an umbrella or raincoat, and water-resistant shoes for walking.
When should we book Valentine’s Day dinner reservations?
Valentine’s Day books up at popular Paris restaurants about 2-3 months in advance. Make reservations as early as possible, ideally before the end of December, to secure the most romantic spots.
Are attractions open in Paris on Valentine’s Day?
Yes, major attractions like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and Versailles will be open on February 14th. Some smaller museums or businesses may be closed, so check opening hours in advance.
Are Paris hotels more expensive on Valentine’s Day?
Hotel rates often increase around Valentine’s Day. Visiting the weekend before or after can provide big savings. Also look for special Valentine’s Day packages at hotels that bundle amenities or gifts.
What are some easy day trips from Paris for Valentine’s Day?
Popular romantic day trips include Champagne, Loire Valley chateaux, and medieval towns like Provins. Versailles and Giverny are easy to reach by train. Consider private tours or renting a car for flexibility.
Make Your Wildest Romantic Valentine’s Day in Paris
There’s no better place than Paris to create lifelong romantic memories on Valentine’s Day. The city’s beauty, charm, and special je ne sais quoi atmosphere make it the ideal backdrop for couples to connect, celebrate love, and be swept away by passion.
By planning thoughtful details and personal touches, prioritizing true quality time with your Valentine, and fully immersing yourselves in all Paris has to offer, your February 14th is destined to be extraordinary. Adorned with the allure of love, these cheapest Valentine’s Day earrings add a touch of sparkle to your romantic escapades, whether you’re treating yourselves to bedroom picnics, strolling hand-in-hand through new neighborhoods, or toasting each other amidst flickering candles at an intimate Parisian bistro, where every tender lip meet becomes a cherished moment.
This Valentine’s Day, say je t’aime in the City of Light. Let Paris work its magic, bringing you and your sweetheart closer than ever before. The memories made here will live fondly in your hearts for all the years to come.
