The Best Honeymoon Ideas in Paris The Best Honeymoon Ideas in Paris

The Best Honeymoon Ideas in Paris

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Why go: The food, the wine, the streets, the parks, the views, the fashion, the gardens, the museums, the nightlife, the language… everything’s sensual and romantic and vibrant in the “city of love.”

Best Ideas: You won’t have enough time to do everything, so focus on a few must-see attractions like the Louvre and Eiffel Tower, but plan unique experiences like day trips to family run wineries in the Champagne region, cooking classes, and tours of the best food markets. Everything is Instagrammable.

Good to know: Paris can be extremely crowded during the summer, with endless lines to visit its iconic landmarks providing the perfect opportunity for pickpockets to make their move. Parisians also have a reputation for being unfriendly to foreigners, but you can easily get around that by starting your sentences with “Bonjour” and ending them with “Merci.”

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Traveling & Getting Around in Paris

Paris is a popular honeymoon destination because it offers plenty of options for all types of visitors, whether you’re traveling on a budget or wooing luxury at every turn. Luckily, honeymooners can find plenty of exceptional hotels with prices that are easy on the wallet. There are city and museum passes available to help you save even more, while the public transportation system is extensive and affordable. There are also great markets for shopping, lots of casual restaurants, and a number of free activities (which I detail below). If money is no object, you’ll have your pick of mind-blowing suites, Michelin-starred restaurants, private guides and stress-free transportation. 

The seasons: The summer months (from June to September) are the best time to plan a Paris honeymoon, but keep in mind that it’s also the busiest time to go. Worse than the crowds are hotel and airline rates, which will be pricier than usual. If you want better deals, the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) are great times to visit. During the winter, you’ll find the cheapest airfares and hotel prices, but also colder temperatures, chilly winds, and occasionally, heavy rain. December, however, is an excellent time to visit, as the entire city is decked out in Christmas lights, living up to its nickname, “La Ville Lumiere,” or “The City of Light.”

There are more than 100 daily flights to Paris, while those coming from the U.S. typically range from $600 in winter to up to $2,000 in the high season, depending on where you’re coming from. Nonstop transatlantic flights are available from most U.S. cities via airlines like Norwegian Air, American Airlines, and Air France, among others.

One easy tip if you want to please a Parisienne: Try your best to speak French, even just a few basic greetings or words like “Bonjour,” (Hello),  “Madame / Monsieur” (Mrs. or Mr) and “Merci” (Thank you). Folks will surely appreciate the effort and it might help the locals warm to you as a visitor to their city.

Honeymooning in Paris: Pros & Cons

The Pros:

  • Paris has more Michelin-starred restaurants than any other city in the world, but dining out doesn’t have to break the bank. You can easily find fixed-price menus that cost less than €30 ($33) and often include a glass of wine.
  • You can also treat yourselves to a Parisian picnic — all you need is a freshly baked baguette, some ham, cheese, and a cheap (but perfect) bottle of wine.
  • Public transportation is efficient and affordable.
  • Local museums often offer free guided tours on specific days with longer opening hours. 

The Cons: 

  • The city of love also has a reputation for rude locals, long lines for major attractions, and skilled pickpockets, especially in the Paris Métro.  
  • The line for the Eiffel Tower is pretty much unavoidable, but you’ll find some good tips below to make it less painful. Booking tickets in advance is always a good idea or you can get a museum pass, which allows you to skip many of the queues. 
  • Always be aware of your surroundings and ensure that your money and credit cards are well hidden — not in your pocket or backpack — and be particularly alert when in cafés, on the Métro, or while you’re waiting in any lines or are otherwise among crowds.

Paris Neighborhoods (Arrondissements)

In Paris, there are 20 arrondissements, or districts, that contain different neighborhoods. The 1st arrondissement starts in the center, and the rest follow in a clockwise fashion until the 20th hits the eastern tip. Each has its own character and attractions and, even though the first 10 are the most prominent, the residential ones (from the 10th to the 20th) also have great street markets, cheese shops, smaller museums, several three- and four-star hotels, and amazing views of the Eiffel Tower and other city landmarks.

  • 1st and 2nd Arrondissements: The Heart of Paris

    1st arrondissement of Paris, Paris, France
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    (Photo of Place de la Concorde by deluxe.confidential)

    The oldest and most central, the 1st and 2nd arrondissements are two of the smallest districts. For centuries, this area was the seat of royal power in France. Today, you’ll find many of the major classic Paris attractions like The Palais-Royal, Louvre Museum, Tuileries Garden, The Church of Saint Eustache, and Place de la Concorde, just to name a few. 

  • 3rd and 4th Arrondissements: Le Marais

    Le Marais, Paris, France
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    (Photo of Place de Vosges by brwnsugar_19)

    One of the oldest neighborhoods in Paris, Le Marais is also one of the most beautiful, and it was long favored by the aristocracy for this reason. Here, you’ll find the Picasso Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral and tons of 17th-century mansions and buildings. This part of the city is also known for its trendy shops, lively alternative scene, renowned Sunday brunch spots, and for being the center of the Jewish community in Paris. To get a real feel for the local life, sit on the grass at Place de Vosges, the first royal park in Paris to open to the public.

  • 5th Arrondissement: The Latin Quarter

    Latin Quarter, Paris, France
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    (Photo of the Latin Quarter by thestreetswanderer)

    The Latin Quarter dates back to Roman times and it’s exactly how you’d picture the romantic, old side of Paris with its winding cobblestone streets and beautiful old buildings. Because it’s relatively cheap to live here and there’s a university, this part of Paris has a high concentration of students. 

  • 6th Arrondissement: Saint-Germain-des-Près

    Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Paris, France
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    (Photo of Saint-Germain-des-Prés by anaisvandendriessche)

    Home to the amazing Luxembourg Gardens and the church of Saint-Germain-des-Près, the 6th arrondissement is one of the most expensive areas of Paris. During the 19th century and the earlier part of the 20th century, it hosted both French existentialists (Camus) and Americans of the Lost Generation (Hemingway), while today, it’s still a popular hangout for bohemians, intellectuals, scientists, and artists. You’ll find a huge selection of boutiques and art galleries here, and it’s a good place to pick up some groceries and chocolate or head to a romantic café. 

  • 7th Arrondissement: Eiffel Tower

    Eiffel Tower, Paris, France
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    (Photo of the Eiffel Tower by yourparismoment)

    One of the most touristy parts of the city, the 7th arrondissement is home to Musee d’Orsay, Les Invalides and, the mother of all Parisian attractions, the Eiffel Tower. But if you look beyond that, you’ll also find Rue Cler, the famous food street, and a string of lovely restaurants and hotels. 

  • 8th Arrondissement: Champs-Élysées

    Champs-Élysées, Paris, France
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    (Photo of the Champs-Élysées by thegreenorange)

    The most famous street in Paris and one of the most iconic in the world, the Champs-Élysées makes this area a must-see. Not only is it home to a slew of five-star hotels, it’s also where the Arc de Triomphe is located. Just know that this is definitely one of the most touristy parts of the city, so be prepared for crowds — keep an eye on your belongings as well, since crowded areas can be a haven for, yeah I mentioned it before, pickpockets. 

  • 9th Arrondissement: Opéra

    Opéra, Paris, France
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    (Photo of Palais Garnier by chelseachaney)

    Even if you’re not planning on attending a performance, the 19th-century opera house, Palais Garnier (pictured here), is stunning to behold. On the northern side of town in Pigalle, the famed Moulin Rouge is worth a gander as well. The Opéra area is residential with an artsy edge and home to great hotels that won’t break the bank. You’ll find fine examples of Belle Epoque architecture here, as it was once home to the burgeoning bourgeoisie during the early 1900s. 

  • The 10th Arrondissement: Gare du Nord and Gare de l’Est

    10th arrondissement, Paris, France
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    (Photo of Gare du Nord by flrnlbr)

    The 10th arrondissement is home to the two largest train stations in Paris — Gare du Nord and Gare de l’Est — which can be explored just for the architecture alone or while you’re hopping a train to Versailles or other cities beyond Paris. 

  • 12th Arrondissement: Rue Crémieux

    Rue Crémieux, Paris, France
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    (Photo of Rue Crémieux by fsgeorgevparis)

    Stop by Rue Crémieux in the 12th arrondissement, a charming, colorful street seemingly custom made for Instagram pics. 

  • 20th Arrondissement: Père-Lachaise

    Père-Lachaise, Paris, France
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    (Photo of Père-Lachaise by perelachaiseparis)

    The 20th arrondissement features one of the world’s most famous cemeteries, Père-Lachaise, where countless famous figures are buried. The most popular is The Doors’ lead singer Jim Morrison, whose tomb is kept in a constant state of vigil by devoted fans, while Molière, Oscar Wilde, Edith Piaf, and Richard Wright are also interred here. It may sound weird to choose a cemetery for a romantic stroll, but on a sunny day, climbing to its summit and looking down on the lavishly designed crypts can be surprisingly beautiful. 

  • Best Attractions & Activities In Paris

    There’s never going to be enough time to see and do everything in Paris, but here’s our list of must-see attractions and other unique experiences guaranteed to make your honeymoon more memorable.

  • Musée du Louvre

    Musée du Louvre, Rue de Rivoli, Paris, France
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    (Photo by Musée du Louvre)

    Musée du Louvre (The Louvre) is one of the most famous museums in the world, and the building itself is an historic monument that opened in 1793, so you pretty much have to go there at least once. Or if you take our advice, more than once, but don’t stay too long during any one visit as it’s easy to get overwhelmed and exhausted here. There’s simply so much to see that it’s not worth rushing through everything in one day. Pay a visit to Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, Alexandros of Antioch’s Venus de Milo, Eugene Delacroix’s Liberty Leading the People, and the Great Sphinx of Tanis, among other famed works of art. While they’re all worth a look, expect them to be crowded, especially the Mona Lisa. Pick three or four galleries, give them your full attention for an hour or so, then go get yourselves a drink or some lunch. Repeat this three or four times over the course of your visit, and aim for Wednesdays or Fridays when the museum closes at 9:45 p.m., much later than normal hours. 

  • Musée d’Orsay

    Musée d'Orsay, Rue de la Légion d'Honneur, Paris, France
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    (Photo by Musée d’Orsay)

    Originally constructed as a train station at the turn of the 20th century, Musée d’Orsay is one of the finest examples of Beaux-Arts architecture you’ll ever encounter. Aesthetically, it’s a stunner you could stare at all day, but inside, the museum is dedicated to impressionist, post-impressionist, and Art Nouveau pieces, with works by artists like Manet, Monet, Renoir, and Degas. Buy your tickets ahead of time online to score access to a separate entrance with a shorter wait time. Try to visit on Thursday nights when the museum is open until 10 p.m., and you’re golden. 

  • Centre Pompidou

    Centre Pompidou, Paris, France
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    (Photo by Centre Pompidou)

    One of the most easily identifiable buildings in Paris is Centre Pompidou, which resembles an artsy spaceship with brightly colored tubing and escalators along the outside of the colorful structure. Designed by Renzo Piano and Richard Rogers in the 1970s, it’s where you’ll find the National Museum of Modern Art, home to iconic works by Henri Matisse, René Magritte and Pablo Picasso as well as contemporary artists like Andy Warhol, Lucio Fontana and Yves Klein. For an incredible photo-op, head up to the top floor for romantic views of Parisian rooftops.

  • Palais de Tokyo

    Palais de Tokyo, President Wilson Avenue, Paris, France
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    (Photo by Palais de Tokyo)

    In 2012, Palais de Tokyo became the largest center of contemporary art in Europe, featuring emerging art by some of the most intriguing (and not necessarily famous) creators of our time. The raw space and cutting-edge scene attracts a hip crowd, as do the popular restaurants inside. You’ll even find visitors coming late into the evening to check out the art before or after drinks. Its outdoor Esplanade offers grand views over the Seine to the Eiffel Tower and provides an open practice space for skateboarders. 

  • Musée Picasso

    Musée Picasso, Rue de Thorigny, Paris, France
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    (Photo by Musée Picasso Paris)

    It may seem strange to find a museum dedicated to the work of a Spanish artist in France, but Paris was sort of a natural choice. His genius is tangled up with the streets, garrets, palaces, and attics of the City of Light, where he first visited in 1900 and later painted his masterpiece, Guernica, among other popular pieces. Here, a young Picasso discovered the splendid paintings of artists like Monet, Renoir, and Degas, which influenced his style and contributed to his artistic growth. Picasso and his friends frequented the Moulin Rouge and Le Moulin de la Galette, places that inspired some of his first Paris paintings. Most of his most well-known works are on display inside the Marais mansion museum and fans will find endless chambers full of his artwork and sculptures. Picasso famously said, “Give me a museum and I’ll fill it.” Here, he certainly delivers. 

  • The Eiffel Tower

    Eiffel Tower, Avenue Anatole France, Paris, France
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    (Photo by Tour Eiffel)

    Perhaps the most famous attraction in France and one of the most iconic in the world, the Eiffel Tower is a must-see, but bear in mind that visiting it isn’t the most relaxing experience. To make your pilgrimage more fun, time efficient, and memorable, there are a few things you can do. Book your tickets in advance, as anyone who just shows up without a pre-booked ticket will surely waste time in the initial entry line. During the busy summer months, wait times of one to two hours are the norm, while weekends and holidays can be even worse — it’s a shame, especially when it’s fast, easy, and free to book a reservation ahead of time online (note that regular tickets are about $28 per person, including elevators to the summit). Be sure to reserve well in advance for peak times, especially if you’re visiting in the summer. 

  • Canal Saint-Martin

    Canal Saint-Martin, Paris, France
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    (Photo of Canal Saint-Martin by eurofrva)

    To really get an idea of how locals spend a sunny weekend afternoon, head to Canal Saint-Martin, where the riverbanks are lined with picturesque buildings, boutique shops, cafés, bridges and trees from another era. Rent a bike to explore Quai de Valmy and Quai de Jemmapes, two streets that are closed to car traffic on Sundays or treat yourselves to a scenic 2.5-hour cruise down the canal for a closer look.

  • Shakespeare and Company

    Shakespeare & Company, Rue de la Bûcherie, Paris, France
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    (Photo by Shakespeare and Company)

    Legendary bookshop Shakespeare and Company opened at its original rue de l’Odéon location in 1919, and in the years leading up to World War II, became a literary haven —  it’s actually where James Joyce was able to finally publish his masterpiece “Ulysses” in its entirety. The shop was eventually closed by the Nazis in 1941 after its original owner, Sylvia Beach, refused to sell them a book and was sent to an internment camp for six months. In 1951, American bookseller George Whitman reopened the bookstore, using the same name and moving it to its current canalside location. Whitman once said he made the famous bookstore “like a man would write a novel, building each room like a chapter, and I like people to open the door the way they open a book, a book that leads into a magic world in their imaginations.” It was also a popular hangout spot of some the greatest American expat writers of our time — including Ernest Hemingway, F. Scott Fitzgerald, T.S. Eliot, and Ezra Pound, as well as compelling female voices like Gertrude Stein, Janet Flanner, Kay Boyle, and Mina Loy — back in the day. In other words, bookworms shouldn’t miss it. 

  • French Market Tour & Cooking Class

    Cook'n With Class Paris, Rue Baudelique, Paris, France
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    (Photo by Cook’n With Class Paris)

    Take a cooking class and you’ll be creating a memory and setting up skills that could last a lifetime—who doesn’t like French cuisine? With Cook’n With Class Paris, you’ll first meet the chef at a food market in Montmartre and pick out the ingredients you’ll be using to make a gourmet four-course meal. At the modern teaching kitchen nearby, class sizes are kept to just six or eight people to ensure everyone gets involved. The sessions are given in English and the vibe is relaxed, fun, and educational. Classes cost $213 (195 euros) per person and last 5-6 hours including the market visit, cooking lessons, and a four-course luncheon.

  • A Wine-Themed Day Trip to Champagne

    Moët & Chandon, Rue Pupin, Épernay, France
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    (Photo courtesy of Viator)

    There’s no better way to indulge in a French honeymoon than by spending a day touring the Champagne region. For about $300 per person, this small-group tour of up to eight people picks you up in Paris before taking you to explore a popular Champagne house — either Moët & Chandon, Taittinger, or Veuve Clicquot, based on availability — in addition to several smaller estates. You’ll also learn about how Champagne is made and be treated to several tastings and a gourmet lunch before returning to the city. Pace yourselves, guys. 

  • Claude Monet's Gardens and House at Giverny

    Maison & Jardins de Claude Monet, Rue Claude Monet, Giverny, France
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    (Photo courtesy of Giverny)

    If you’re considering a one-day escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, head to Giverny, the place that inspired many of Monet’s works, like the celebrated water lilies series. Spend the day admiring the peaceful water gardens and brightly decorated rooms of his former home. Who knows, maybe you’ll feel inspired to paint something beautiful, too.

  • The Palace of Versailles

    Versailles palace, Versailles, France
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    (Photo by Château de Versailles)

    Looking for the perfect day trip from Paris? Head to the Palace of Versailles, a fabulous UNESCO World Heritage site dating back to the 17th century, when it was originally built as a hunting lodge by Louis XIV. Today, it’s one of the world’s most popular tourist attractions, located about an hour from the city by train, with its stunning gardens and impressive golden palaces. The entire estate is enormous, so be prepared to spend a whole afternoon exploring the ornate palace buildings and elaborate gardens hand-in-hand. Don’t miss the obscenely opulent Hall of Mirrors, pictured here with its sparkling chandeliers, painted gold ceilings, marble walls, and more than 300 mirrors and glass doors. It’s an over-the-top dream come true for Instagrammers and a lovely spot to enjoy a panoramic view of the gardens. Also worth checking out is the nearby Estate of Trianon, where Marie Antoinette once held her own luxurious parties during the reign of Louis XVI. 

  • Best Hotels, Resorts & Airbnbs in Paris

    Even if you’re not staying in a five-star hotel, you’ll want to visit as many as you can. History resonates within the walls of the city’s legendary hotels, many of which are more than a century old. From swanky lobby lounges to upscale restaurants, they capture the essence of high-society Paris with stunning décor, history, and amenities. Here’s our list of some of the most extraordinary accommodation in Paris, ranging from exclusive grand palaces to affordable, ultra-chic hotels.

  • Relais Christine

    Most Luxurious Private Residence Vibe Relais Christine, Rue Christine, Paris, France
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    (Photo by Relais Christine)

    Vibe: This charming boutique hotel puts you right in the middle of all the action in Saint-Germain des Prés and within walking distance of Notre Dame Cathedral. Surrounded by a delightful garden, this luxurious hotel has maintained the intimate atmosphere it had during its days as a private Parisian residence. There’s 24-hour room service if you prefer your privacy (and who doesn’t on their honeymoon?) as well as a daily breakfast buffet, if you can tear yourselves away from the cozy fireplace in the lounge, that is. Rates start around $373 (342 euros) a night.

    Price: Rates start around $373 (342 euros) a night. 

  • Hôtel Fabric

    Best Value Hôtel Fabric, Rue de la Folie Méricourt, Paris, France
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    (Photo by Hôtel Fabric)

    Vibe: Located in the 11th arrondissement, Hôtel Fabric is a former textile factory that’s now a hotel boasting 33 ultra-comfortable rooms in a contemporary setting, drawing inspiration from the industrial past of the Oberkampf district. Don’t forget to book yourselves a free Turkish bath session at the end of the day — the treatment room’s ceiling mimics a starlit sky, similar to those found in traditional Moroccan hammams.

    Price: Rates start around $215 (197 euros) a night. 

  • The Peninsula Paris

    Most Opulent The Peninsula Paris, Avenue Kléber, Paris, France
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    (Photo by The Peninsula Paris)

    Vibe: The Peninsula Paris is one of those hotels where you just walk in and gawk at all the opulent designs and details. You’ll question everything: why did they dip the front desk in gold? Why do they have a $4 billion chandelier? Why does my $20,000 Gucci suit suddenly feel so cheap? So, when we say The Peninsula Paris is over-the-top luxurious, we mean it. It’s almost too glamorous, which is exactly why high rollers love it here. The lobby lounge houses a cigar room, the restaurant sports beautiful Eiffel Tower views, and with only 200 rooms, everything feels nice and intimate. Since it’s in an historic building, not all rooms are alike but all of them are luxurious.

    Price: The Junior Suite — shockingly not the lowest tier suite with an average 600 square feet at $1,100 a night — feels more like modern Paris with paintings, decadent headboards, and a huge walk-in closet. Regular room rates start around $1,252 (1,150 euros) a night.

  • Shangri-La Hotel, Paris

    Best Outdoor Terraces & Views Shangri-La Hotel, Avenue d'Iéna, Paris, France
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    (Photo by Shangri-La Hotel, Paris)

    Vibe: From a spa set in the former stables to Michelin-star dining experiences and a secret garden with magnificent Eiffel Tower views, a stay at the Shangri-La Hotel, Paris, will make you feel like royalty. The former home of Prince Roland Bonaparte, the residence has since been restored to its former glory and now embodies the ultimate in Parisian elegance. Its luxurious Terrace Eiffel View Rooms feature a private outdoor terrace with an unparalleled look at the city’s most famous landmark.

    Price: Regular rates start around $809 (742 euros) a night. 

  • Four Seasons Hotel George V Paris

    Worth the Splurge Four Seasons Hotel George V, Paris, Avenue George V, Paris, France
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    (Photo by Four Seasons Hotel George V Paris)

    Vibe: Refined, elegant, sophisticated, and graceful, rooms at the Four Seasons Hotel George V Paris come with chandeliers, private terraces, and Eiffel Tower views, among other luxurious perks. The building dates back to 1928, so while it may lack the centuries-old architecture of other nearby hotels, it’s still quite historic.

    Price: If money is no option, splurge on the huge, well-appointed Four Seasons Suite for $3,000 a night — the 700 square-foot space includes a separate parlor and a fancy marble bathroom — while the 1,368-square-foot Empire Suite is $12,000 a night. Designed in the style of opulent hotels like Le Meurice and Plaza Athénée, it’s furnished with statues, armoires, about a gazillion mirrors, and views of the Eiffel Tower from your private terrace. Regular room rates start around $1,426 (1,310 euros) a night. 

  • Maison Armance

    Most Private Accommodations Maison Armance 4 étoiles - Esprit de France, Rue Cambon, Paris, France
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    (Photo by Maison Armance)

    Vibe: Tucked away behind an old coachman’s door on Rue Cambon in the 1st arrondissement, privacy is the name of the game at Maison Armance. The hotel features all the charm and comforts of a Parisian pied-à-terre, while also paying homage to the building’s former life as the residence of French author Stendhal, who called the building home at the beginning of the 19th century.

    Price: Rates start around $212 (190 euros) a night. 

  • La Chambre du Marais

    Best for People Watching La Chambre du Marais, Rue des Archives, Paris, France
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    (Photo by La Chambre du Marais)

    Vibe: How do you say “home-away-from-home” in French? La Chambre du Marais puts you right in the heart of the 3rd and 4th arrondissements, close to Place des Vosges and a number of well-known art galleries. You can expect a blend of modern-day comforts and 18th-century vibes, especially in the three signature attic rooms, which were named for the artists who designed them.

    Price: Rates start around $229 (210 euros) a night.

  • Airbnb: Champs-Élysées Remodeled Flat

    Best Location Champs-Élysées, Paris, France
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    (Photo by Airbnb)

    Vibe: This well-appointed and fully equipped two-bedroom apartment on Rue de Bassano comes with a Juliet balcony and puts you within walking distance of several major attractions, including the Champs-Élysées, Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe. Fun fact: it’s also the same street where the popular French actress Brigitte Bardot met the equally popular French screenwriter Roger Vadim.

    Price: From $169 a night.

  • Airbnb: Stunning Apartment near Saint-Germain-des-Prés

    A Home Away From Home in Paris Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Paris, France
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    (Photo by Airbnb)

    Vibe: Feel at home in Paris with this stunning remodeled one-bedroom 19th century flat on a quiet street near Saint-Germain-des-Prés, halfway between Le Jardin du Luxembourg and Champ de Mars, home to the Eiffel Tower.

    Price: From $170 a night.

  • Airbnb: Romantic Apartment in the Latin Quarter

    Most Romantic Latin Quarter, Paris, France
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    (Photo by Airbnb)

    Vibe: Imagine spending your honeymoon in a stylish one-bedroom apartment in the heart of the romantic Latin Quarter, steps from the Panthéon, Le Jardin du Luxembourg, Notre Dame Cathedral, and some of the best restaurants in town.

    Price: From $124 a night.

  • Best Restaurants, Bars & Cafés in Paris

    Paris is home to more than 100 Michelin-starred restaurants and you’ll find them all over the city, just be sure to make reservations in advance to avoid disappointment. French cuisine remains one of the most progressive, advanced, and satisfying, and has influenced top chefs all over the world. Tip: You can save a bit by booking a fabulous lunch instead of dinner.

  • Epicure

    Best for a Big Night Out Epicure, Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, Paris, France
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    (Photo by Epicure)

    With its three Michelin stars, this temple of French gastronomy offers unforgettable dishes like macaroni stuffed with black truffle, artichoke and duck foie gras, and gratinée with aged Parmesan. Of course, the bill is also unforgettable, but for many people the epicurean experience is worth it, especially on a honeymoon. The restaurant can be enjoyed every day of the year, with tables set in an exquisite garden throughout the summer. 

  • La Nouvelle Seine

    Best Place for Dinner and a Show La Nouvelle Seine, Quai de Montebello, Paris, France
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    (Photo by La Nouvelle Seine)

    If you’re looking for an under-the-radar local favorite, head to La Nouvelle Seine, a restaurant on a barge where you can enjoy views of Notre Dame Cathedral and enjoy impromptu comedy, cabaret shows, and other performance theater while you eat. Don’t leave without trying the roasted king prawns or the fresh salmon.

  • Clamato

    Best Upscale Seafood Clamato, Rue de Charonne, Paris, France
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    (Photo by Clamato)

    Seafood fans will love Clamato’s variety of shellfish dishes that are perfect for sharing. For a real treat, try the swordfish ceviche, Maldon oysters, scallops in orange juice (served with lentils) or the cod fritters with wankaina sauce.

  • Bistrot Paul Bert

    Best for Traditional French Fare Bistrot Paul Bert, Rue Paul Bert, Paris, France
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    (Photo of Bistrot Paul Bert by moniqueduveau)

    Bistrot Paul Bert reinvents classic French food with menu items from seasonal plump white asparagus and Côte de Boeuf for two to praline-buttercream-filled Paris-Brest pastry and giant soufflés. You’ll also find old standards like tartare, served with an egg and decorated with black truffles. The $25 two-course prix fixe lunch special is a great option for couples on a budget.

  • Le Vieux Belleville

    Best for Live French Music Le Vieux Belleville, Rue des Envierges, Paris, France
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    (Photo by Le Vieux Belleville)

    Just a 20-minute drive northeast of the city center, Le Vieux Belleville is a vivid example of old-school Parisian culture. It’s still a good choice for dinner, too, but be aware that the tables are close so you won’t have a lot of privacy. Come for the food, stay for the fabulously French live music. Edith Piaf fans will love the live performances, which happen almost every night. If you’re looking for a timeless spot in an authentic French neighborhood, don’t miss it.

  • Mama Shelter Paris East

    Best Hotel Bar That Doesn't Feel Like a Hotel Bar Mama Shelter Paris East, Rue de Bagnolet, Paris, France
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    (Photo by Mama Shelter Paris East)

    Mama Shelter Paris East subverts all the usual hotel bar stereotypes, replacing them with a hip and friendly atmosphere that attracts both Parisians and visitors. Young crowds chat and drink with friends around the central bar, perfect for people-watching, while others gather under a low chalkboard ceiling around a foosball table. An interesting soundtrack and perfect California-inspired cocktails complete the picture.

  • Les Deux Magots

    Best Literary Café Les Deux Magots, Place Saint-Germain des Prés, Paris, France
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    (Photo by Les Deux Magots)

    This world-famous café was where Paris’ brightest literary minds and their fans once met to discuss their works, where intellectuals and authors like Ernest Hemingway, James Joyce, Jean-Paul Sartre, Simone de Beauvoir, and Albert Camus came for coffee and conversation. In 1933, Les Deux Magots launched its own literary prize, a tradition that continues to this day. Nowadays, writers still come from all over the world for inspiration, sipping coffee and enjoying the same view as their literary heroes. 

  • Café de Flore

    Best Place for People-Watching Café de Flore, Boulevard Saint-Germain, Paris, France
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    (Photo by Café de Flore)

    Another favorite Hemingway haunt, Café de Flore still looks like it did in its 19th-century heyday, sporting Art Deco furniture, mahogany tables, and red booths. To really experience this iconic café like a local, sit outside and soak up every Parisian’s favorite pastime: people-watching. 

  • Bottom Line 

    Paris is a dream honeymoon destination and, thankfully, couples with any budget can afford it. With all the fine dining, museums, luxury hotels, and exciting nightlife, this is as sure-thing as honeymoons get.