Romantic Honeymoon in Paris and Surroundings (5 Days)
Ah, Paris! The city of eternal love, where every street corner seems to breathe romance. It's THE dream destination for a honeymoon. Hold the hand of your life's love as you stroll along the banks of the Seine, lose yourself in the timeless charm of Montmartre, and savor exquisite dishes in intimate brasseries full of history. This 5-day stay in Paris and its surroundings transports you into a fairy tale, where intimate moments and wonder are guaranteed at every turn.
The 10 Must-Dos for a Honeymoon in Paris:
- Romantic cruise on the Seine
- Candlelit dinner with a view of the Eiffel Tower
- Getaway to Versailles and its majestic gardens
- Sunset at Montmartre and the Basilica of the Sacred Heart
- Visit covered passages for vintage shopping
- Stroll in the Luxembourg Garden
- Intimate discovery of the Louvre art galleries
- Celebrate love at the "I Love You" wall in Montmartre
- Walk together through the alleys of the Marais
- Get lost together in the Château de Fontainebleau
Day 1: Arrival in Paris - Romance by the Seine
The City of Paris
Of course, your journey begins in Paris, the iconic city, capital of romance. Whether you arrive by plane or train, the first thing that will strike you is the enchanting atmosphere of this city. Here, everything becomes more poetic, from the Haussmannian architecture to the scents of warm croissants wafting through the cobbled streets.
Activity 1: Private Cruise on the Seine at Dusk
Nothing symbolizes love better than this boat cruise on the Seine. The illuminated city, the reflection of lights on the water, and the two of you aboard a small boat, admiring the iconic monuments. These intimate moments, lulled by the gentle translation of the Seine's currents, will create lasting memories.
Practical Info: Various operators offered around the Pont d’Iéna or Quai de la Tournelle, about 15-20 euros per person depending on the option with or without a glass of champagne. Duration: about 1 hour 15 minutes.
Activity 2: Romantic Walk on the Quays and Dinner for Two
Continue the evening with a romantic walk along the quays, with an iconic photo at the Pont des Arts. To end on a high note, settle into a cozy brasserie with a dim ambiance to enjoy your first romantic dinner with a view of Paris at night.
Practical Info: Look for a restaurant near Saint-Germain-des-Prés. Average budget: between 30 and 50 euros per person.
Where to Sleep?
- Hotel André Latin: Charming renovated hotel near the Luxembourg Garden. Average price: 95 euros/night.
- Hotel Eldorado: Located in Montmartre, romantic bohemian decor nestled in a picturesque neighborhood. Average price: 85 euros/night.
Where to Eat?
- Le Comptoir du Relais - A quintessential bistro, perfect for tasting classics like duck confit. About 40 euros per person.
- Restaurant Lasserre: For an even more refined evening, famous for its candlelit dinners. About 65 euros per person.
Day 2: Let Yourself Be Carried Away by Montmartre
Activity 1: Explore Montmartre and the Basilica of the Sacred Heart
Montmartre is one of the most charming and iconic neighborhoods in Paris. Stroll through its cobbled streets, discover artists' studios, and climb to the Sacred Heart for a breathtaking panorama of the entire city. This neighborhood is also perfect for having coffee in intimate places like the "Café des deux moulins".
Practical Info: Montmartre is accessible by metro (line 2). No entrance fee for the Basilica.
Activity 2: The "I Love You" Wall
Before leaving Montmartre, make a mandatory stop at the "I Love You" Wall. A unique work with the inscription "I love you" in all the world's languages, an ideal symbol to seal your love forever.
Practical Info: Located at Square Jehan Rictus, free and open at all times.
Where to Sleep?
- Hotel Basss: A cozy boutique hotel in the heart of Montmartre with rooms for 95 euros/night.
- Hotel de Flore: 3-star hotel with a soft ambiance and particularly well located. About 90 euros/night.
Where to Eat?
- La Mascotte: An authentic brasserie with fresh seafood and a Parisian atmosphere. Budget per person: 35 euros.
- Le Moulin de la Galette: For a typically Montmartre dinner, nothing beats this establishment in a mill! Tasting menu from 50 euros.
Day 3: Day at the Palace of Versailles - Escape into the Royal Gardens
Head west of Paris for a truly royal excursion. Versailles is famous for its magnificent palace and vast gardens, where you can stroll hand in hand.
Activity 1: Visit the Palace of Versailles and the Grand Apartments
A true emblem of French history, the Palace of Versailles offers a dive into the sumptuous reign of Louis XIV. Its gilded rooms, mirrors, and monumental paintings create a royal setting.
Practical Info: RER C train from Paris (about 45 minutes). Tickets to be booked online from 18 euros per person.
Activity 2: Romantic Walk through the Gardens of Versailles
After visiting the palace, rent a small boat on the Grand Canal for a peaceful ride for two or explore the hidden paths of the wonderful French Gardens. The place is perfect for lovers looking to escape the world and enjoy nature.
Practical Info: Consider going early to avoid the crowds. Boat rental: about 13 euros for 30 minutes.
Where to Sleep?
- Hotel de l’Avenir: Return near the Luxembourg Gardens, a small tranquil oasis. Budget: about 85 euros/night.
- Hotel Romantic Paris: A beautiful hotel with cozy and romantic rooms near the Latin Quarter. Price: 100 euros/night.
Where to Eat?
- Le Bouillon Chartier: Historic restaurant in Paris for a low-cost experience but with a real ambiance. About 25 euros/person.
- Benoit Bistro: Another option to enjoy traditional brasserie cuisine in a warm atmosphere. About 45 euros per person.
Day 4: The Marais - Romance between Art and History
Return to Paris, head to the Marais for a day rich in cultural and architectural discoveries, while keeping a romantic atmosphere.
Continued...
Day 4: The Marais – Romance between Art and History
Activity 1: Stroll through the Marais and Visit the Picasso Museum
This neighborhood is ideal for a walk for two. The Marais is home to historic architecture with private mansions, art galleries, and trendy boutiques. Start with a visit to the Picasso Museum, which houses one of the largest collections of the master. It's a beautiful introduction to an artistic day, ideal for couples who love art and culture.
Practical Info: The museum is located at 5 Rue de Thorigny. Rates: about 14 euros per person (book online to avoid waiting). The neighborhood is accessible by metro (lines 1, 5, or 8).
Activity 2: Discover the Jewish History of Paris by Visiting the Museum of Jewish Art and History
For history lovers, this is a fascinating but romantic cultural visit. Dive into the history of the Jewish community in Paris and Europe. This intimate museum is full of unique art collections and archives. Its modest size and calm make it a perfect visit for a couple in search of discoveries.
Practical Info: 71 Rue du Temple. Open every day except Saturday. Ticket: about 10 euros per person.
Where to Sleep?
- Hotel Jeanne d’Arc Le Marais: A charming hotel in the heart of the Marais with excellent value for money. About 90 euros/night.
- Hotel Caron: Located in a quiet little street, this charming hotel guarantees you a peaceful night after a busy day. About 100 euros/night.
Where to Eat?
- Chez Janou: Love Provence? This cozy bistro is perfect for a dinner with Provencal flavors. Budget: about 35 euros per person.
- Le Petit Marché: Located a stone's throw from Place des Vosges, this small restaurant offers inventive cuisine that marries traditional and modern. About 40 euros per person.
Day 5: Relaxation in the Gardens and the Heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés
End your honeymoon with one last peaceful day in Paris, between strolling in the garden and a final romantic walk through the historic streets of Saint-Germain-des-Prés.
Activity 1: Walk in the Luxembourg Garden
Head for a bucolic walk in one of the most beautiful parks in Paris: the Luxembourg Garden. Stroll among the flowerbeds, sit near the fountain to watch Parisians, and admire the majestic facade of the Luxembourg Palace. The iconic green chairs scattered throughout the park are perfect for lingering around a small fountain.
Practical Info: Free entry. Accessible via the Odéon metro or RER B (Luxembourg station).
Activity 2: A Romantic Visit to Shakespeare & Co. Bookstore and Coffee on the Quays of the Seine
End on a literary note with a visit to the famous "Shakespeare & Co." bookstore located not far from Notre-Dame. Its mystical and slightly disordered ambiance makes it a particularly appreciated place for couples for a peaceful stroll. After browsing the shelves, rest in a nearby café on the quays of the Seine.
Practical Info: Shakespeare & Co. opens daily from 10 am. Metro line 4 (St-Michel station).
Where to Sleep (for couples extending their stay)
- Hotel Le Petit Belloy Saint-Germain: A small warm hotel with an incredible view of the rooftops of Paris. About 95 euros/night.
- Relais Hotel du Vieux Paris: For a more poetic and vintage setting, this hotel is a stone's throw from the famous bookstore. About 100 euros/night.
Where to Eat?
- Les Deux Magots: Famous brasserie in the 6th arrondissement, to end your stay in a place steeped in literary history. About 40 euros per person.
- Le Procope: The oldest café in Paris, it's the ideal place for a final historical dinner in a magical atmosphere. Approximate budget: 45 euros per person.
How to Get There?
To travel between the different stages of this trip (mainly Paris and Versailles), the most practical means of transport are the Paris metro and the RER (Regional Express Network). Here are some recommendations:
- Getting to Paris from the Airport: If you arrive at Charles de Gaulle Airport, you can take the RER B (about 10-12 euros/person to reach the center of Paris in 30 minutes).
- Getting to Versailles: Take the RER C from the center of Paris (about 7 euros/person, 45 minutes travel time).
- Getting Around Paris: Opt for metro tickets in booklets (about 1.90 euros per trip or 14.90 euros for a booklet of 10 tickets).
The Romantic Highlights of This Trip:
- The boat cruise on the Seine – a magical moment.
- The visit to Montmartre and the Sacred Heart, a perfect neighborhood for couples seeking nostalgia and charm.
- The gardens of Versailles and the Grand Canal for a timeless moment.
- A contemplation together in front of the works of art at the Louvre or the Picasso Museum.
- The Luxembourg Garden for a delightful bucolic break hand in hand.
- A candlelit dinner with a view of the Eiffel Tower.
- Enjoying a sunset on the quays of the Seine, near Notre-Dame.
Preparing Your Trip
Administrative Needs
For European Union citizens, a valid ID card is sufficient to travel to Paris. For non-Europeans, check visa requirements before leaving.
What to Bring?
- Comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestone streets and exploring gardens.
- A camera or smartphone to capture all these unforgettable moments.
- A slightly dressier outfit for a romantic dinner in the heart of Paris.
- An umbrella! Paris is known for its sudden showers.
Medical Needs
No specific vaccinations are required for Paris. However, a basic first aid kit can be useful with disinfectant and band-aids for possible blisters from long walks.
Booking Your Trip
Flights
For cheap flights to Paris, prefer flight comparators like Kayak, Skyscanner, or Google Flights. Don't forget to activate price alerts. Take advantage of low season periods to pay less, while avoiding school holidays.
Accommodations (Hotels under 100 euros/night)
The options presented in this article are mid-range accommodations with a romantic touch, without breaking the budget. Also, consider booking in advance through platforms like Booking or Airbnb to get interesting rates.
Car Rental
If you plan to venture outside of Paris (e.g., Fontainebleau), consider renting a car through services like Sixt, Hertz, or Europcar. However, in Paris itself, a car is often more of a hindrance, so prefer the metro and RER. For trips like Paris-Versailles, the train remains ideal.
Conclusion
Here you have it, a honeymoon itinerary in Paris that will allow you to experience the most beautiful moments together! This trip will offer you a balanced dose of culture, art, romantic strolls in the city, and intimacy in majestic gardens or on the banks of the Seine. Paris, known as the City of Love, has truly earned its nickname. Whether you are artists at heart or simply lovers of beautiful walks, this stay will remain forever etched in your memories.
Take the time to savor each moment, breathe in the Parisian air, and let Paris enchant you...
Now, all that's left is to book your deposits and pack your bags. Have a wonderful love journey!