The Ultimate Paris Honeymoon Guide for Lovebirds

Here's how to live it up like the Parisians.
Seine River with Eiffel Tower in Paris, France
Photo: SCStock | Getty
Dina Cheney - The Knot Contributor.
by
Dina Cheney
Dina Cheney - The Knot Contributor.
Dina Cheney
The Knot Contributor
  • Dina writes for The Knot Worldwide, specializing in food, travel and relationships.
  • With more than 20 years of experience in service journalism, she also pens articles and recipes for publications, such as Good Housekeeping, Parents, SELF, Health, Men’s Health, Men’s Journal, Prevention, Fine Cooking, Weight Watchers and Diabetic Living.
  • Dina graduated from Columbia College, Columbia University and The Institute of Cul...
Updated Feb 08, 2024
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A Paris honeymoon offers a refreshingly unique experience for lovebirds, standing apart from the secluded beaches and tropical resorts normally associated with the best honeymoon destinations. With its sweeping, tree-lined boulevards, luxury boutiques and world-renowned establishments, Paris certainly knows how to put its best and fanciest foot forward. The French capital represents romance and style, boasting a dining scene unparalleled by other top culinary destinations.

Known as the City of Lights (as well as the City of Love), Paris is the ultimate romantic getaway. The city offers an ideal backdrop for a European honeymoon, where couples will adore everything from fresh-baked baguettes to romantic sunset cruises with views of the Eiffel Tower. As you plan your visit, use this article as your personal Paris travel guide and discover how to savor the very best of an unforgettable Paris honeymoon.

Paris Honeymoon Tips in this article:

A quaint street in Paris, France
Photo: Alexander Spatari | Getty

Best Time to Visit Paris

The best time to visit Paris depends on personal preference and budget, but for a Paris honeymoon, spring is ideal. After all, Paris is famous for its exceptional beauty during that time (April and May). September and October are excellent options, too, as crowds are thinner and the weather is more temperate.

A summer honeymoon in Paris has its appeal, but you can expect much higher hotel rates, high temperatures and plenty of tourists.

December is magical in Paris with its holiday markets, but, of course, it's cold. Winters in Paris generally tend to be wet and gray, so unless you want to spend most of your time indoors sipping hot chocolate, book a date for another time of year.

Best weather: April to May, September to October.
Festival highlights:
Held annually on the first Saturday of October, Nuit Blanche is an all-night arts festival that transforms Paris into an open-air museum. Paris Fashion Week occurs twice a year, with the Spring/Summer collections shown in late September to early October, and the Autumn/Winter collections in late February to early March. Celebrated on July 14th, Bastille Day is France's national day, commemorating the French Revolution and the storming of the Bastille prison. On June 21st, the streets, bars, and restaurants of Paris come alive with music to celebrate the summer solstice for Fête de la Musique.

Paris Honeymoon Planning Tips

Paris is the textbook romantic honeymoon destination. With its beautiful metropolis as the backdrop, you and your sweetheart will stroll along historic cobblestone streets, people-watch at outdoor cafes and dine at Michelin-rated restaurants.

This romantic city is also home to several of the world's top museums (hello to the Louvre), numerous luxury flagships and hip gastronomic experiences. Paris is also quite easy to reach, with direct flights from most major North American airports. But before you start planning activities or booking your flights, make sure you have your basics covered.

Entry requirements: A US passport that is valid for at least three months after exiting the Schengen Area. You can stay as long as 90 days without a visa. Starting in 2025, US citizens need to have an ETIAS for France. It is valid for 3 years and can be obtained online.
Language: French is the official language of Paris, though many residents and individuals working in the tourism industry speak English and other languages.
Location: Paris is situated in the north-central part of France, on the River Seine. It's both the capital and largest city in the country.
Currency: The Euro (€) is the official currency used in Paris, as it is in the rest of France and many European Union countries.
Flight time to Paris: From New York City, the flight time to Paris is approximately 7 to 8 hours direct.
Getting around: Paris boasts an efficient public transportation system that includes the Métro (subway), buses and trams. The city is also bike-friendly and has several bike-sharing stations, like Vélib'. While it's compact enough to explore on foot, taxis and ride-sharing services are widely available for more direct routes.

Pro tip: Reach out to a honeymoon planning expert to find Paris honeymoon packages, flights and accommodations. You can check out travel agents near you on The Knot Marketplace.

Best Paris Honeymoon Hotels & Resorts

Figuring out where to stay for your Paris honeymoon means narrowing down accommodations that'll provide a blend of romance, comfort and convenience. The city is divided into arrondissements (districts), each offering its unique charm and attractions. For a truly romantic experience, consider staying in the heart of Paris near the River Seine, where neighborhoods like the 1st arrondissement offer proximity to the Louvre and the Tuileries Gardens, or the 4th with its picturesque Marais district. The 7th arrondissement is another prime choice, home to the Eiffel Tower and lovely boutique hotels that offer stunning views.

Luxury seekers might gravitate towards the 8th arrondissement, famed for its romantic French restaurants and opulent hotels along the Champs-Élysées. Meanwhile, couples looking for a more bohemian or artistic vibe might find Montmartre in the 18th arrondissement or the Latin Quarter in the 5th to be more their style, with cozy cafes and vibrant street life. Always consider what experiences you want to prioritize—whether it's waking up to a view of the Eiffel Tower, strolling through historic streets or dining in Michelin-starred restaurants. This romantic city offers a ton of options that suit every honeymoon dream, blending its iconic elegance with intimate, memorable stays.

A view of the Eiffel tower from an open window in Paris, France
Photo: Park Lane Pictures | Getty

La Reserve Hotel and Spa Paris

Centrally located just off the Champs‑Elysées, this five-star hotel in Paris overlooks the Eiffel Tower, Grand Palais, and Concorde obelisk.

5 Star Rating | Read Reviews

Maison Astor Paris, Curio Collection by Hilton

Located on a quiet road in Paris' luxury and fashion district, this historic hotel will put you within walking distance of boutique shops and art galleries galore. With Eiffel Tower views and proximity to restaurants and attractions, you'll have all you need for the perfect Paris honeymoon.

4.5 Star Rating | Read Reviews

Le Bristol Paris

One of the best-known properties for luxury in Paris is Le Bristol (an Oetker property). In fact, Stewart calls this five-star hotel a French classic. Situated on the famed and elegant street, Rue du Faubourg Saint Honoré, it's the place to spot French stars and politicians. Plus, the rooms are newly renovated and suites are an option for an extra splurge. (It is your honeymoon, after all.)

5 Star Rating | Read Reviews

Ritz Paris

For over-the-top luxury, another legendary hotel in Paris is the Ritz Paris. The property overlooks the Place Vendome. Founded in 1898, the hotel even houses a cooking school, Ecole Ritz Escoffier.

4.5 Star Rating | Read Reviews

Hôtel de Crillon

A Rosewood property, the iconic Hôtel de Crillon is the representation of Parisian service as it overlooks the Place de la Concorde. Along with its plush and impeccably outfitted rooms, guests are able to enjoy the hotel's calming spaces and open-air dining options. Relax at Sense, the brand's spa, and grab cocktails on the property's rooftop bar, Bonsoir Paris.

4.5 Star Rating | Read Reviews

Hotel Providence Paris

For a chic and trendy experience in a grittier corner of Paris, Stewart vouches for this boutique hotel. Located in a neighborhood including the Haut-Marais, Beaubourg, and
the Saint-Martin Canal, the property is surrounded by boutiques and art galleries.

4.5 Star Rating | Read Reviews

Pro tip: For accommodations that'll give you and your beau more privacy (or budget-friendly options), you might want to consider booking a romantic Airbnb or VRBO.

Things to Do in Paris for Couples

A Paris honeymoon offers endless possibilities for couples seeking to immerse themselves in romance and culture. Whether you spend your getaway simply strolling the streets or catching cabaret shows, there are plenty of Paris honeymoon ideas and things to do together.

Aerial view of Arc de Triomphe, Paris
Photo: Eric Isselee/Shutterstock

Walk Everywhere and See the Sights

Architecture buffs will appreciate how Paris features building styles from the Middle Ages on, including Gothic, Classic Revival, Belle Epoque, Art Nouveau and Art Deco. The best way to experience these historic structures is by sightseeing by foot or with a guide. You'll see iconic landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower, Sacre Coeur, Palais Royal, the Arc de Triomphe and the Place de la Concorde. You'll also people-watch, which is one of the best aspects of visiting a metropolis like Paris. To rest your feet, couples tend to stop by a cafe for a drink. (We recommend Les Deux Magots in Saint-Germain-des-Prés.) Or pick up a bottle of French wine, and pick up fresh fruit, local cheeses, baguette sandwiches and picnic in the Luxembourg Gardens.

Shop Until You Drop

To splurge on Louis Vuitton or Cartier goods while in France, spend time on or around the Avenue des Champs-Élysées. Meanwhile, the more charming and intimate Saint-Germain-des-Prés district is known for its stylish, more bohemian boutiques. In addition to contemporary art, Le Marais is home to some iconic designers, adorable bookstores and vintage fashion spots.

Descend into the Catacombs of Paris

For history buffs and lovers of the macabre, tour this network of underground ossuaries, containing the remains of more than six million people. After all, for some, a reminder of human mortality can be romantic.

Dine at a Michelin-Starred Restaurant

For the ultimate in high-end French food, experience Guy Savoy. According to the Michelin Guide, this revered spot is known for its artichoke soup with black truffles, rouget fish entree and mille feuille dessert (Napoleon pastry).

For a more affordable experience, try a spot with only one Michelin star, such as La Tour d'Argent. Family-owned since 1912, this restaurant in the Latin Quarter (home to the Sorbonne) is famous for its roasted and pressed duck, extensive wine cellar and service. It also features views of Notre Dame Cathedral and the Seine.

Take a Seine River Cruise

Buy a ticket to ride one of the famous riverboats (The Bateaux-Mouches) that cruise up and down the Seine River. Departing from a pier close to the Pont de l'Alma on the Port de la Conférence, they pass several landmarks, including the Cathedral of Notre Dame, the Louvre Museum and the Musée d'Orsay.

View Art—from High to Low

Visit Leonardo Da Vinci's "Mona Lisa" and thousands of other noteworthy works in the world's largest art museum, The Louvre (Musée du Louvre). Situated on the Right Bank of the Seine, in Paris' first arrondissement, the 782,910-square-foot complex holds a collection representing prehistory through the present day.

For accessible pieces that you can actually buy, stroll through Montmartre, the historic arts district. Among its many galleries, honeymooners might want to stop by The Musée de l'erotisme, which houses erotic art (like fertility sculptures). Or, explore galleries and museums in the Montparnasse, Marais or Saint-Germain-des-Prés arrondissements.

Go on a Day Trip to Versailles or Disneyland Paris

For the ultimate day trip from Paris, take the train to the Palace of Versailles (Chateau de Versailles). A World Heritage Site, this 17th-century chateau was originally Louis XIII's hunting pavilion. From his son, Louis XIV, to future kings, the palace was enlarged and embellished until the French Revolution. To tour the 2,300 rooms (spread over 63,154 square meters), book a timed ticket. However, feel free to skip the interior and explore the extensive gardens only. Or, for honeymooners who wish to satisfy their inner child, visit Disneyland Paris, located about 20 miles east of the city center. There, you'll find Sleeping Beauty Castle, plus Disney's trademark attractions, shows, and parades.

Get Tickets to the Moulin Rouge

This iconic cabaret, located near Montmartre, is known for its glitz and seductive music and dance. Created in the late 1800s, it currently stars 60 female performers donning a total of 1000 costumes adorned with rhinestones, sequins and feathers. It would make for a great experience gift to add to your honeymoon registry, if you haven't already finalized your list.

Pro tip: Add Paris honeymoon experiences to your gift registry so your loved ones can give you one of these memorable couples activities. Make sure to upload a few Paris photos to your wedding website—your guests will want to see how much fun you had!

What to Pack for a Paris Honeymoon

A couple strolling down a street in Paris, France
Photo: LeoPatrizi | Getty

A Parisian getaway means filling up your honeymoon luggage with casual chic and dressier attire. Couples should bring comfortable and muted walking shoes, an umbrella and sunglasses. As with travel to all European countries, your packing checklist should also include a converter, adapter and portable charger for your cell phone.

You'll also want to pack digital and paper copies of key documents, as well as Euros. Dress and prepare, according to seasonality. If you travel during the spring and suffer from allergies, don't forget the allergy medication. Certain areas of Paris are highly pollinated (and the city bursts with life in the spring).

Brittany Barber contributed to this article.

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