Valentine's Day in Paris

The best ideas for a romantic soirée in the City of Lights to celebrate Valentine's Day with that special someone

Paris and love go together like croissants and café. But why does the city of lights have such a reputation for passionate romance? We don’t even need to mention the aesthetics, as it seems every centimetre of the city’s detailed architecture lends a soft feel and a certain sense of romance. From the very beginning, the city has been a central hub for art and culture, drawing artists, writers and poets alike as a destination for artistic inspiration. With its beautiful sights, long history as a center of new ideas and culture, and a certain je ne sais quoi, you’ve come to the right place to say je t’aime.

You and your loved one finally booked that romantic Paris vacation you’ve been dreaming of, or simply looking for an original idea to celebrate with a special someone. Bustling with beautiful sights, romantic cobblestone alleys, and such long history of passionate love stories, Paris is one of Europe’s most romantic cities, a city for lovers. Every season in the French capital has something unique to offer, and who better to experience it all with than the one you love. Whether in town for work or play, you’ve surely spent a long day and are looking for enjoyable romantic soirée. There are abundant romantic evening activities in the city of light to celebrate Valentine’s Day, an anniversary, or anything in between. Here are a few of our favorite Paris date nights.

A night at the theatre

A very French twist on the dinner-and-a-movie date night

We would be remiss if we did not suggest a dinner and a night on the town in an historical Parisian theatre. Paris has long attracted literary talents and boasts many celebrated playwrights, from Dumas to Balzac to Molière. To put the rich literary and theatrical talents on display, the city is also famous for many elegant historical theatres and playhouses, each with its own charm. Whether you opt for one of the classics, such as Molière’s The Miser, or a bit more lighthearted show, there is nothing French theatre has to offer that isn’t accessible for English-speakers. Besides, what’s more romantic than a red velvet decor, chandelier glistening overhead, ornate moulding in classic historical theatrical style, all while watching complex scenes unfolding before your eyes? Check out the entire Theatre in Paris selection in the our shows tab above.

If you opt for a meal or quick drink before the show, many of our theatres have an adjoining restaurant or bar allowing you to stay just a bit longer in this mystical theatrical setting, and who knows, you might even brush shoulders with one of the actors. The FrouFrou at the Theatre Edouard VII, for example, serves up decadent dishes and an impressive wine menu, without ever having to leave the theatre.

Take a romantic Parisian stroll

In true Parisian lovers style, take a balade through one of the many hidden neighborhoods the city has to offer

Nothing says Valentine’s Day more than bundling up for a romantic stroll through one of the many charming Parisian neighborhoods. Hand in hand, take a late afternoon walk along the Seine to cross directly through the centre of the city, and stop to admire the literary offerings and interesting finds in the many street vendor booths stretched the length of Paris’ famous riverbanks. In a simple walk along the river, you will cross paths with Notre Dame, the Louvre palace, and even the Tour Eiffel herself, so bundle up, head outside, and admire the Parisian charm with your Valentine.

If you have already seen the major sites and want a bit more local charm, the winding cobblestone streets of Montmartre neighborhood in northern Paris will make you feel in the centre of a cozy French village. Take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city center to admire some local street art, speak with the artists, and even stop in the Paris Museum of Romantic Life. Their ever-changing exhibitions and cozy tea room are sure to please any Valentine’s Day date.

When you tire of taking in the sites, stop in a local brasserie for a delicious vin chaud (mulled wine for our English-speakers looking to pick up a few key French phrases). If you have more of a sweet tooth, the decadently rich hot chocolate at Angelina’s. Angelina’s is an absolute must on your Paris list and a perfect way to warm up after your romantic balade under the Parisian winter sunshine.

No matter what you do, let yourself get swept away in the Parisian charm. Oh...Paris je t’aime.