Paris. The name itself conjures images of unrequited love, shattered glass ceilings, and exclusive parties. It’s the city teenagers dream of and adults surrender to. No matter what your imagination tells you, Paris will leave you feeling like you’re in a dream, navigating a city unlike any other. My partner and I didn’t go to Paris for a honeymoon or anniversary. It was simply a romantic weekend getaway before our main destination. Here’s what we experienced:
A Parisian Sunrise at the Eiffel Tower
Most seasoned travelers know the best time to visit the iconic Eiffel Tower is at sunrise from the Trocadero viewpoint. While other tourists are still sleeping, we were rewarded with a breathtaking sunrise over the Eiffel Tower. It was worth sacrificing a few hours of sleep and missing our morning coffee and croissants. The soft, golden light of dawn illuminated the tower, making it look even more majestic. It was a truly romantic moment, just the two of us. An hour later, the view was completely obstructed by selfie sticks and Instagram influencers, all vying for the perfect photo. It was a stark reminder that Paris is a popular destination!
A Stroll Through the Streets of Paris
After our magical sunrise, we made our way towards the Eiffel Tower, crossing the Seine River and stopping for a quick coffee and Nutella crepe next to the Eiffel Tower Carousel. We were definitely not going to let hunger get in the way of our romance!
The streets of Paris are charming with their tiny, round tables, cozy cafes, and romantic ambiance. Every novel set in Paris captures the essence of these street-side cafes, where you can sit and people-watch. Following our quick breakfast, we strolled along the Avenue Anatole France, admiring the beauty of the city, and headed towards a cafe for brunch. Paris is full of these charming cafes, and we found one right on the street.
We chose Cafe du Flore in the trendy neighborhood of Saint Germain des Pres. Contrary to what people might think, it was full of locals rather than tourists. The cafe was bustling with life, and we enjoyed a leisurely brunch, taking our time to soak in the atmosphere. The friendly staff made us feel welcome, and we spent a good two to three hours enjoying our meal. Next door to Cafe du Flore is another iconic cafe, Cafe Les Deux Magot, and across the street is Brasserie Lip, both popular for their escargot.
The Beauty of Parisian Architecture
The streets of Paris are a feast for the eyes, lined with terraced buildings, quaint shops, and elegant cafes. Every cobblestone street that begins with “Rue de la…” is a testament to the Belle Epoque era of architecture, blending Haussmann’s airy and bright designs with Parisian charm. After the revolution and the first democratic election, Louis Napoleon III commissioned Haussmann to design boulevards and squares that allowed the city to breathe. The result was a more elegant and romantic city, a transformation that is evident even today.
The eight-story buildings that line the streets give the city a unified and stylish look, rather than appearing haphazardly built. We strolled through many streets, but some of our favorites were Rue Cler, Rue de Grenelle, and Avenue des Champs Elysees.
Rue Cler and Rue de Grenelle have a special charm, with their vibrant atmosphere, plenty of shops, and delicious dining options. We enjoyed a freshly squeezed orange juice at Top Halles, a selection of cheese at Fromager Marie-Anne Cantin, a brioche and espresso at Cafe du Marche, and even some beautiful flowers from Cler Fluers to decorate our room. There’s something for everyone on Rue Cler!
A Sweet Indulgence: Parisian Pastries
Paris is known for its patisserie shops, which are scattered throughout the city like sprinkles on a cupcake. As a lover of sugary treats, I couldn’t resist visiting some of the most famous patisseries in the city.
Ladurée, the Mecca of macarons, has become incredibly popular, thanks to Instagram and macaron enthusiasts. Angelina, near Place Vendome, is another popular destination, known for its exquisite confectionery creations and tea service. There’s a trend of patisserie shops and bakeries popping up in every neighborhood, much to the delight of pastry lovers like myself.
A Romantic Cruise on the Seine
The debate of whether the Right Bank or Left Bank of the Seine is better is a popular topic, even in Hollywood (think Gossip Girl). But when you see Paris from above, especially during the golden hour or at night, it looks like a beautifully woven carpet, with the Seine as a delicate seam running through the center.
Cruising the Seine is a must-do in Paris, and you can board any number of cruises right under the Eiffel Tower.
Dinner Dates in the City of Love
No romantic getaway is complete without a dinner date, and Paris has plenty of amazing options.
If it’s your first dinner date in Paris, make it a memorable one. Don’t be tempted by the tourist trap of dining on the Eiffel Tower. Instead, choose a simple, yet delightful restaurant in a quiet neighborhood. Paris has an endless variety of restaurants, from luxurious Michelin-starred establishments to charming, unique cafes.
After dinner, enjoy a bottle of Burgundy or Bordeaux.
Paris After Dark: The City of Lights
No other city on Earth can compete with Paris’s magic. The sparkling Eiffel Tower is a truly spectacular sight, unlike anything else in the world. At 9 pm, the tower twinkles and shines, illuminating the entire city.
The Louvre Palace and Museum is a fantastic spot to watch the city transform into a starry night. The glass pyramid lights up, creating a truly magical scene. Walking down the Avenue de Champs Elysees towards the Arc de Triomphe with your loved one is an unforgettable experience.
Paris is a city best experienced at night. The buildings come alive after sunset, as if a veil of lights has been draped over them. You’ll see the city’s famous landmarks in a whole new light, like precious stones on a necklace.
A walk on the Pont Alexandre III is a must. This baroque masterpiece is a testament to Parisian elegance. The City of Lights truly comes alive at night.
