How to Spend a Valentine’s Day in Paris: The Most Romantic Date Ideas

Valentine’s Day in Paris promises magic, romance, and unforgettable experiences. From classic, cozy dinners to unique hidden gems, here’s your ultimate guide to a romantic getaway in the City of Love. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifteenth, these date ideas will help you and your loved one make this Valentine’s Day in Paris unforgettable.

 1. Take a Seine River Cruise at Sunset

Nothing says romance quite like a Seine River Cruise at sunset. Watching Paris’s landmarks—like the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and the Louvre—bathed in golden light as you glide along the river is an experience of pure magic. Opt for a Bateaux Mouches or Vedettes de Paris dinner cruise, where you’ll enjoy a gourmet meal while soaking in the illuminated cityscape. Book in advance, as Valentine’s Day cruises fill up quickly, and be prepared for a memory that will last a lifetime.

 2. Have a Gourmet Dinner with a View

Paris boasts some of the world’s most romantic restaurants. For a truly memorable Valentine’s Day, consider dining at Le Jules Verne in the Eiffel Tower for breathtaking views, or Maison Blanche on Avenue Montaigne, where you’ll dine above the rooftops of Paris with views of the Eiffel Tower in the distance. If you’re looking for an intimate, cozy spot, Le Coupe-Chou in the Latin Quarter offers French cuisine in a rustic, candlelit setting that feels like a step back in time.

 3. Explore Montmartre’s Art and Café Culture

Montmartre’s historic streets, with their charming cafes, artists, and views over Paris, are perfect for a romantic stroll. Visit Place du Tertre for a portrait by a local artist, or head to Sacré-Cœur Basilica for panoramic views of the city. Afterward, warm up in one of Montmartre’s classic cafes like Le Consulat or Café des Deux Moulins, where you can share a pastry or two. Don’t forget to stop by the “I Love You” Wall in Place des Abbesses, a mural with “I love you” written in over 300 languages.

 4. Enjoy a Private Wine Tasting

A private wine tasting in Paris is a unique way to celebrate Valentine’s Day. Many wine bars and cellars, like Ô Chateau or Les Caves du Louvre, offer private tastings where you can sample French wines and learn about wine-making from an expert sommelier. Some experiences even pair wine with cheese and charcuterie, creating a cozy and intimate atmosphere. It’s a perfect date idea for wine lovers or anyone interested in discovering more about French wine culture.

 5. Stroll Through the Luxembourg Gardens

Though it may be chilly, a winter walk through Luxembourg Gardens can be magical. The peaceful gardens, beautiful statues, and fountains create a serene atmosphere, ideal for a romantic stroll. If you’re lucky, you might find a cozy bench where you can relax and enjoy each other’s company amidst one of Paris’s most iconic settings. You could even bring along some hot chocolate or pastries from a nearby bakery for a sweet, spontaneous picnic.

 6. Take a Chocolate or Pastry Tour

Valentine’s Day is the perfect excuse to indulge, and Paris offers some of the finest chocolatiers and patisseries in the world. Many companies offer guided chocolate and pastry tours, where you’ll sample gourmet treats from top spots like Pierre Hermé and La Maison du Chocolat. Or, take a self-guided tour through Saint-Germain-des-Prés, stopping at local favorites like Patrick Roger and Café Pouchkine. This sweet journey will add a delicious twist to your romantic day in Paris.

 7. Find a Hidden Speakeasy for Evening Drinks

If you’re looking for a unique and memorable night out, Paris’s speakeasies offer an unforgettable twist. Head to Lavomatic, hidden behind a laundromat, for creative cocktails and an intimate setting. Or try Moonshiner, which you’ll enter through a pizzeria. These secret bars offer a cozy, romantic ambiance away from the bustling streets and make for an exciting, memorable Valentine’s night out.

 8. Capture Memories with a Professional Photo Shoot

Capture the magic of Valentine’s Day in Paris with a professional photo shoot around iconic Parisian landmarks. Several local photographers offer romantic photo sessions by the Eiffel Tower, Tuileries Garden, or Pont Alexandre III bridge. A professional photographer will help you capture timeless moments, ensuring that your memories of Valentine’s Day in Paris last forever.

 9. Dine at a Cozy Bistro

For a more traditional Parisian experience, enjoy a meal at a classic French bistro. Bistros like Le Comptoir du Relais and Chez Janou offer a cozy, intimate atmosphere and serve delicious French fare like duck confit, escargots, and crème brûlée. Bistros are a vital part of Paris’s dining culture, offering authentic French food in a relaxed setting. Share a bottle of wine, savor the flavors, and enjoy a truly romantic dining experience.

 10. End the Night with a View of the Eiffel Tower’s Sparkling Lights

No Valentine’s Day in Paris would be complete without admiring the Eiffel Tower’s sparkle. Every hour on the hour after sunset, the Eiffel Tower lights up in a dazzling display, a moment that’s perfect for couples. You can watch the tower sparkle from Trocadéro, Champ de Mars, or even a cozy spot by the Seine. It’s a simple yet unforgettable way to end your romantic day.

Valentine’s Day in Paris is an experience unlike any other, with endless romantic opportunities around every corner. From intimate wine tastings to hidden speakeasies, and classic bistro dinners to scenic strolls, Paris is the perfect destination for a romantic getaway. Let these date ideas inspire your Valentine’s Day in Paris, creating memories you’ll cherish for a lifetime.