Paris is known as the City of Love, but finding hidden romantic places in Paris away from the usual crowds takes a bit of exploration.
Spots where romance lingers quietly—places where couples can steal a moment, share a quiet conversation, or simply enjoy the city without distraction. Whether it’s a tucked-away garden, a quiet riverside walk, or a cozy café far from the tourist trail, these places make Paris feel even more intimate.
These romantic spots aren’t just for couples—they’re perfect for solo travellers seeking a quiet, intimate connection with the city, too. I should know—I’ve done both over my 11 trips to this city! Every five years, my husband and I celebrate our anniversary here (29 years and counting).
Here’s a list of lesser-known spots and experiences, along with the usual romantic clichés that will make your time in Paris even more special.
This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to purchase something through the links, at no additional cost to you. Read my Affiliate Disclosure.
Hidden Romantic Places in Paris
Stroll through the secret covered passages mostly found in the 2nd & 9th arrondissements. Glass-roofed arcades lined with vintage boutiques and old-world cafés, perfect for a cozy escape to old-world Paris. Wander down Rue des Thermopyles, in the 14th arrondissement, a cobbled, ivy-draped Paris street that feels like a village frozen in time.
In the charming Montmartre, discover Le Clos Montmartre, a hidden vineyard where Parisian winemaking still thrives (and is open to the public during the annual harvest festival in October). Step into the Musée de la Vie Romantique in the 9th arrondissement, a charming museum dedicated to 19th-century romance, complete with a quiet garden for afternoon tea.
For something unexpected, visit Le Comptoir Général in the 10th arrondissement, an eclectic bar with vintage décor and a laid-back, intimate vibe that offers a delicious Sunday brunch along with a cozy cocktail scene. It deserves a spot on my recommended list as this is a hidden bar, tucked away behind an unassuming doorway.
Most Romantic Walks in Paris
Some of the most romantic moments in Paris happen on a quiet walk, where the city’s beauty unfolds at its own pace. There’s a term, flâneur, which comes from 19th-century Paris and describes someone who strolls aimlessly, observing the city with curiosity and appreciation. It’s the essence of slow travel in Paris—wandering without a strict plan, letting the streets, hidden corners, and quiet moments reveal themselves along the way.
Stroll along the Seine Riverbanks of the 1st–7th arrondissement, where the water reflects the glow of streetlamps and booksellers, called Bouquinistes, line the quays. Stop along the famous bridges like Pont des Arts in the 6th arrondissement, a pedestrian bridge where couples pause to take in the perfect Parisian view.
Wander through Le Marais in the 3rd & 4th arrondissements, a historic district filled with elegant mansions, hidden courtyards, small museums and inviting cafés perfect for lingering. Cross onto Île Saint-Louis, a tiny island where time slows, with cobbled streets, charming boutiques, and Berthillon ice cream to share.
For a green escape, follow La Promenade Plantée, found in the 12th arrondissement, an elevated garden path above the city streets.
Most Romantic Places in Paris
Some places in Paris are effortlessly romantic, whether it’s the atmosphere, the history, or simply the way they make you feel.
Stand beneath the Eiffel Tower in the 7th arrondissement at night when it sparkles on the hour, turning an ordinary evening into something unforgettable. Wander through Montmartre, where quiet staircases, hidden gardens, and artist-filled squares make it feel like a love story waiting to happen. Don’t miss a stroll along one of the prettiest streets, Rue de L’Abreuvoir.
Along the Canal Saint-Martin in the 10th & 11th arrondissements, couples picnic by the water, share a bottle of wine, and enjoy quiet conversations. Inside the famous Louvre Museum in the 1st arrondissement, find beauty beyond the Mona Lisa—quiet galleries, grand sculptures, and corners perfect for getting lost together. For an intimate escape, visit the Musée Rodin in the 7th arrondissement, where sculptures like The Kiss sit in a peaceful rose garden, far from the city’s rush.
Most Romantic Spots in Paris
Paris is filled with quiet corners where romance feels effortless, whether it’s a hidden garden, a scenic park, or a place that speaks the language of love.
Escape to Parc des Buttes Chaumont in the 19th arrondissement, a hillside park with waterfalls, a temple overlooking the city, and winding paths made for long walks. In the heart of Paris, the Palais-Royal Gardens, found in the 1st arrondissement, offer a quiet retreat with perfectly manicured hedges, shaded benches, and elegant archways. For classic Parisian charm, the Luxembourg Gardens in the 6th arrondissement invite couples to sit by the fountains, watch sailboats glide across the pond, or find a quiet spot beneath the trees.
The Place des Vosges in the 4th arrondissement, the oldest square in Paris, is a picture of symmetry and romance, with red-brick facades, arcades, and grassy lawns begging for a picnic. And for a declaration of love, visit the Wall of Love in the 18th arrondissement, a mural in Montmartre where “I love you” is written in over 250 languages—a fitting tribute to the city of romance.
Most Romantic Things to Do in Paris
There’s no shortage of romantic experiences in Paris, each one designed to make you fall deeper in love with the city.
For an unforgettable evening, take a sunset cruise or dinner cruise on the Seine where the iconic landmarks glow as the boat drifts past, offering an intimate view of Paris at twilight. Sip and savour the flavors of France with a wine tasting at one of Paris’s cozy wine bars, such as Le Baron Rouge.
In the early evenings, you can often spot dance couples effortlessly moving to the rhythm of the tango and swing music in Paris. Place Colette in the 1st arrondissement and the Tino Rossi Garden in the 5th arrondissement along the Seine offer magical settings where couples and strangers alike come together to dance under the fading light, creating an intimate and vibrant atmosphere unique to the city.
For a night of glitz and glamour, enjoy a classic Moulin Rouge Cabaret show where dazzling performances, feathers, and sparkle create a fun, lively way to spend an evening. If you prefer a quieter, more intimate experience, attend an evening concert at Sainte-Chapelle, where the stunning stained glass windows glow as the music fills the air.
To top off the night, indulge in a late-night dinner at a romantic restaurant—whether at the cozy and relaxed Chez L’Ami Jean (7th arr.), the chic, rooftop Les Ombres (7th arr.) with views of the Eiffel Tower, or the elegant, historic Lapérouse (6th arr.), where its cozy nooks and candlelit tables make it the perfect spot for a romantic dinner.
Final Thoughts
One of the reasons to visit the City of Love is full of hidden places that are sure to steal your heart. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, I hope you enjoyed discovering some of the most enchanting places in Paris.
If you enjoyed this article, save it for later!
