As Ernest Hemingway said, “There are only two places in the world where we can live happily: at home and in Paris.” And there’s no better way to kickstart your happily ever after than a honeymoon in Paris.
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Is Paris a Good Place for a Honeymoon?
Paris is a magical city and a dream honeymoon destination for many. It’s the perfect definition of beauty, romance, and good vibes owing to its iconic landmarks, serene environment, and delicious food and wines.
Whether you fancy romantic strolls, shopping, and art and culture, you’ll find it all in this city’s picturesque gardens, world-class museums, and high-end shopping arenas.
What Activities Can You Do on a Honeymoon in Paris?
- Leisurely stroll: Trocadero Garden is a haven for lovebirds for romantic strolls and magnificent Eiffel Tower views.
- Sightseeing: Paris is home to awe-inspiring sights such as Notre Dame, the Eiffel Tower, Sainte-Chapelle, Versailles, and world-class museums, including the Louvre.
- Go for a cruise: Take a sundowner cruise on the Seine River for spectacular views of the glittering Paris lights. The cruise is one of the most romantic places for a candle-lit dinner.
- Romantic picnics: Enjoy a relaxing afternoon in one of Paris’ beautiful parks.
- Visit Disneyland: Awaken your inner child on a trip to the 140-acre Disneyland Paris.
- Dine: Enjoy a romantic dinner at one of the spectacular Michelin-star-rated restaurants.
What Is the Best Month to Visit Paris?
The best time to visit Paris is spring (April through June) and fall (September through October). These months have cool weather and fewer crowds.
Generally, you can visit Paris at any time of the year. However, summer (June to August) can be too hot, expensive, and crowded, while winter may be too cold for most outdoor activities.
Is a Paris Honeymoon Expensive?
A Paris honeymoon is relatively expensive since it’s a popular honeymoon destination. On average, a one-week vacation may cost $3,000-7,000 per couple. You may spend more or less depending on the season of your visit, food and accommodation type, and activities.
How To Plan a Budget Honeymoon in Paris
- Enjoy all the free activities such as walking, picnicking, and visiting free sights. Most famous museums are free every first Sunday of the month.
- Get a Paris Museum Pass if you plan to visit multiple museums. It’s cheaper than buying individual tickets and helps avoid long lines.
- Use public transport. Paris has efficient train and bus systems to get you around the city. Or, if time isn’t a concern, you can walk through the beautiful cobbled streets.
- Eat at outdoor markets. The best way is to pick up food (e.g., cheese, wine, bread, and meats) and enjoy a romantic picnic in the lush gardens or parks.
- Stay in a hostel/Airbnb. While they may not be as romantic, they are cozy and offer excellent services. If your accommodation has a kitchen, cook a few meals at home.
- Visit during the off-season. Avoid Paris during summer (June-August) and festivities (Christmas, New Year, Easter, and Fashion Week).
7 Best Areas To Stay In Paris
Paris is divided into 20 administrative districts referred to as arrondissements. They’re arranged in a spiral pattern starting from the Seine and progressing outwards.
Eiffel Tower (7th Arrondissement)
This is the best area for first-timers and everyone looking for the classic Paris experience. It’s under the foot of the Eiffel Tower and directly on the Seine River bank. This neighborhood is the best place to explore Paris on foot. Whether you prefer early morning walks or twilight strolls, you’ll love this neighborhood.
Activities
- Walking along the beautiful streets and Trocadero gardens
- Picnicking by the river as you enjoy the calm, relaxing breeze
- Leisurely Seine River cruise for a different view of the city
- Wine and dine in posh hotels and restaurants
- Climb the Eiffel Tower for panoramic views of the city
Le Marais (3rd and 4th Arrondissements)
This is an excellent neighborhood in Paris since it’s close to the major attractions such as Notre Dame and other magnificent churches. It covers the 3rd and 4th arrondissements (quite close to the Seine River) and is centrally placed. The cobblestone streets are and are lined with spectacular restaurants and beaming bars. Also, you’ll have easy access to metro lines, public parks, gardens, and noteworthy museums.
Activities
- Picnicking in gardens and parks
- Exploring contemporary art at Centre Pompidou and history at Musee Picasso and Carnavalet
- People watching and strolling at Place des Vosges
- Nightlife in the plentiful bars
Champs-Elysees (8th Arrondissement)
This area is home to the famous Champs-Elysees (the world’s most beautiful avenue) that connects the Place de la Concorde and Arc de Triomphe. Also, this district hosts the Elysee Palace (the official residence of the president of France) and some of the best theaters, shops and cafes, and monuments. The tree-lined street makes this neighborhood serene and perfect for walking.
Activities
- Shop in the numerous stores along the streets
- Walk hand in hand for postcard-worthy pictures along Champs Elysees
- Climb up the 284 stairs at the Arc de Triomphe for picturesque views of the city
- Explore the magnificent Grand Palais
Montmartre (18th Arrondissement)
Montmartre is a romantic place with a budget-friendly lifestyle. It features scenic spots such as Place du Tertre, CalvaIre, and Montmartre Vineyards. In addition, it’s the best place to explore Parisian culture and cuisine in the plentiful restaurants or watch the famous cabaret with a glass of French wine.
Activities
- Enjoy panoramic city views by climbing the ~300 stairs at the Sacre-Coeur Basilica
- Admire the cobblestone streets as you head to the Montmartre museum and galleries
- Stroll, take pictures, and buy souvenirs at Place du Tertre
- Visit and take photos at the “I Love You” wall where “I Love You” is displayed 311 times in 250 languages
Latin Quarter (5th Arrondissement)
The Latin Quarter is an excellent option to party in Paris. This area is lively and youthful due to the high population of students. Hence you’ll find budget-friendly accommodation, food outlets, and wine bars.
Activities
- Explore famous monuments such as the Parisian Pantheon, Saint Michael Fountain, and Lutetia Arenas
- Wander around museums like the Cluny Museum of the Middle Ages
- Walk the streets and sample the plentiful bars, restaurants, and bistros
- Breathe some fresh air at Luxembourg Gardens and enjoy the incredible views of the beautiful lawns and fountains
Saint Germain (6th Arrondissement)
Saint Germain is the best for a quiet romantic getaway. Here you can spend a day in some of the best hotels, people-watching, or hop in one of the many bookstores and check out each other’s favorite reads. Also, there are plenty of busy shops and fabulous boutiques for souvenirs.
Activities
- Explore Saint Germain des Pres on a guided tour to learn the most about this neighborhood’s history
- Bike around and connect to neighboring scenic places such as the Luxembourg Palace and the Latin Quarter
- Visit the National School of Fine Arts and admire the exterior architecture and beautiful courtyard
- Admire the gothic architecture and take pictures at Saint Germain des Pres church
Montparnasse (14th Arrondissement)
Montparnasse is the perfect destination if you want to experience the local feel. It’s primarily residential, budget-friendly, and has easy access to major attractions on the metro. It was popular among thinkers and artists like Pablo Picasso, Ernest Hemingway, and Henry Miller.
Activities
- Climb up Montparnasse Tower for panoramic views of the city
- Indulge in crepes and galettes
- Visit the Bourdelle Museum and admire the gorgeous sculptures
- Visit and pay tribute at the Paris catacombs
- Visit nearby attractions such as Notre Dame
What Is the Best Way to Travel to Paris?
The best way to travel to Paris is by flight. You can fly directly from most major US cities to Paris’ Charles de Gaulle Airport.
You can take a taxi or public transport (train or bus) from the airport to the Paris city center and other neighborhoods.
Traveling Within Paris
Paris is a well-connected city with numerous travel options. You don’t need to worry about access to the attractions from your preferred neighborhood. The various options include:
- Metro: The Paris Metro is the best way to get around Paris. It’s cheap, fast, and easy to navigate. You can buy a Paris Pass if you plan to travel a lot.
- Train: The Paris RER (Réseau Express Régional) is the best alternative since it’s fast and easy to use. You can also use it to connect to other neighborhoods farther away.
- Buses and coaches: The bus system is well-developed and convenient since numerous bus stops are around the city.
- Biking: If you’re up for it, biking is a great way to explore the cobbled streets.
- Taxis and private chauffeurs: You can splurge on a taxi or private chauffeur for maximum comfort and privacy.
- Walking: Paris is easy to explore on foot, especially during the morning and evening.
What Types of Honeymoon Accommodations Are Available in Paris?
Whether you want luxury and romance or intimate and budget-friendly accommodation type, Paris has it all. The most popular are:
- Luxury hotels with magnificent backdrops, such as the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral.
- Boutique hotels are cozy, with excellent services and awe-striking architecture.
- Mid-range or budget hotels, which you find in most neighborhoods.
- Vacation rentals and Airbnb are best for budget travelers.
3 Local Foods to Try in Paris
Did you know that the French way of eating is UNESCO listed as an intangible cultural heritage? That’s right. Eating is a vital part of French culture, and that’s why you must try local Parisian dishes such as:
- Croissants: Popular Parisian pastry made with flour, sugar, butter, salt, yeast, and milk. It’s usually served for breakfast with tea, coffee, or juice.
- Crepes: Famous street food in Paris that looks and tastes like pancakes but thinner. It is usually served with sweet toppings and fillings.
- Baguette: A staple bread, usually long and thin. They are typically eaten warm as a snack.
Are There Any Cultural Experiences to Include in a Parisian Honeymoon?
Paris boasts a rich, beautiful French culture encompassed in its language, food, and manners. Here are some of the best experiences to include in your honeymoon:
- Take a cooking class and master several French recipes to try back home. You can start with delicious pastries.
- Take a language class and learn basic French (one of the world’s major languages.)
- Go on a food tour, learn about French eating habits, and relish some French delicacies.
- Hire a local guide for a walking tour where you can learn about history, culture, and everyday life in Paris.
What to Pack For a Honeymoon in Paris
Paris is generally casual, but it’s one of the fashion capitals. Therefore, ensure you bring smart, stylish, and comfortable clothing. Remember that you’ll often walk, so wear fashionable yet comfortable sneakers. Flip flops and sandals are generally thought of as beachwear.
Aside from clothing, don’t forget a power adapter, an umbrella, and a chic pair of sunglasses.
Is Paris Safe to Visit?
Generally, Paris is a safe place to visit. However, just like other major capital cities, you need to be alert to avoid petty cases such as theft and pickpockets. Here are safety precautions to get you started:
- Mind your belongings.
- Be alert when walking the streets, especially at night.
- Look out for suspicious strangers.
- Avoid deserted areas.
- Leave valuables in the safe in your hotel.
- Don’t carry too much cash.
- Be aware of the current political climate.
- Avoid shady neighborhoods.
- Learn basic French phrases.
Do You Need a Visa to Visit France?
As a US citizen, you don’t need a visa to visit France for up to 90 days. France and 26 other countries are part of the Schengen Visa Area.
Bonus Tips For a Honeymoon in Paris
- The local language is French, but some people speak English. Learn at least a few basic French phrases before arriving, such as good day (bonjour), thank you (merci), and you’re welcome (Je vous en prie or de rien).
- 1 USD translates to 0.93 euro
- While most shops and restaurants accept credit cards, many have a minimum. It’s best to always carry cash with you.
- Be courteous. Always greet shop owners, servers, bartenders, and people on the street before beginning a conversation.
- If you sit outside at a cafe or restaurant, many people will be smoking around you.
- If a service charge is not included in your bill, it’s up to your discretion if you leave a small tip at a restaurant. In hotels, tips are not expected, but they are always appreciated.