PARIS, THE CITY OF LOVE THE CITY OF THE LIGHT ST. VALENTINE S DAY - DESENMASCARANDO LAS FALSAS DOCTRINAS

Ah Paris… the famous city of love. Top honeymoon destination, perfect place to spend a romantic weekend, especially on St. Valentine's Day. But why is Paris considered one of the most romantic places in the world? Let us give you just a few reasons!

romantic places in Paris

Beauty, art and aesthetics

Paris strikes you with its beauty on every step, its architecture, monuments, little alleys, cozy bars and restaurants, the River Seine, the gardens… All that makes it one of the most charming cities in the world and helps to create the perfect setting and atmosphere for love. If there is one thing that stands out in this city, it is the care for aesthetics, everything here tries to appeal to an incessant beauty and harmony.

So how did it get the reputation of being the city of love? It all started at the end of the 18th century. Back then Paris was home to a number of artists of the Romantic period who immortalized the city in their works. Romanticism was born at the end of the 18th century, it was a new artistic trend, which spread throughout Europe. Its main focus were feelings and art was created to evoke strong emotions.

This was also the time when Paris changed its face completely - in the mid 19th century the city was rebuilt, with grand and elegant avenues, new buildings created such as the Opera Garnier and the Eiffel Tower among others. It was then that Paris became the capital of art and the home of many Romantic writers and poets, who give priority in their works to feelings, and of course, to love! There are plenty of poems, books and writings to prove it. Many artists have described Paris as their muse. Reading poems and books, seeing the artwork that was inspired by the city definitely reinforces the romantic view of Paris.

So where to see those works of art? Paris has some of the best museums in the world, the list is long! When visiting the city for the first time you should definitely head to the Louvre and the Orsay Museum. But Paris also boast… the Museum of Romantic Life! Located at the foot of Montmartre it is devoted to romantic female writers George Sand, a center of the Paris literary scene of the time, famous for both her works and her affairs with several artists, including Chopin. It also has a nice garden to relax with your loved one.

Love movies!

Art, poems, songs, but nowadays especially movies create our vision of Paris as the city of love and give it its incredible aura. Those who have never been to Paris, definitely saw it many times in films, TV series and even advertisements. So even without really knowing the city very much we associate it with love.

Many romantic movies have been shot in Paris over the years. Some famous examples are Le Fabuleux Destin d’Amélie Poulin, Before Sunset, Moulin Rouge, Everyone says I love you, Midnight in Paris… Those who like classic films will never forget the ending of Casablanca and the ode to love between Rick and Ilsa and the quote “We’ll always have Paris.” In recent years, the Netflix series Emily in Paris has also become immensely popular and helped to reinforce the image of Paris as the city of great fashion, food and love.

Tell me about love... in French!

Despite sounding a bit cliché, French language is definitely something that adds an extra charm to your visit in Paris. French is considered to be one of the most romantic (and sexiest) languages in the world, and it’s often called the language of love, le langage de l'amour. It has a sweet, sensual sonority and melody we all love. “I love you" in French Je t'aime has become an international way to express deep love to somebody.

The most romantic experiences in Paris

We gave you some of the reasons why Paris is called the city of love. Now time has come for a few tips and recommendations on how to spend romantic time in Paris.

Paris at night. When you walk through the city in the evening, you will find it beautifully illuminated. For one reason or another, it feels much more magical here compared to other cities. Some of Paris’ most iconic landmarks, like the Eiffel Tower, the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Basilica of Sacré-Coeur, will be lit up, and it’s quite magical! This makes Paris an incredibly romantic destination for an evening walk.

Paris at night

Dinner on the Seine. The views of Paris at night from the river are breathtaking. Many of the city's emblematic monuments are on the banks of the Seine, such as the Cathedral, the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower. That's why dining on one of the boats that travel along the river will be a wonderful experience, both for the views and for the palate.

Dinner on the Seine

The bridges of Paris are also very romantic, especially a walk in the evening through the Alexandre III bridge which is undoubtedly one of the most romantic bridges in the city. It was the first bridge lit with an electric lighting and it is known for appearing in many films, TV series and commercials. It also offers a beautiful view of the Eiffel Tower. The other bridge to visit is the Pont des Arts, known as the Bridge of Love, as lovers put padlocks on it, as a symbol that is to seal their love forever. Unfortunately the bridge collapsed in recent years as it got too heavy, there were too many padlocks there! Although it’s no longer possible to put your lovelock there, Pont des Arts still is an incredibly romantic place to visit.

romantic bridges of Paris

Gardens: with more than 400 parks and gardens, Paris is one of the greenest cities in Europe. Definitely visit the beautiful Jardin du Luxembourg. In this garden there is even “a fountain of lovers” or the Medici Fountain. It was Queen Maria de Medici who ordered the construction of these gardens and the fountain has remained as a symbol of love and a place where lovers meet to stroll along the gardens.

garden where lovers meet

Let’s not forget about the Eiffel Tower! It is the symbol of Paris par excellence. This 300-meter-high iron tower, built in 1889, is located on the Champ de Mars, next to the River Seine, and is the tallest building in Paris. It is one of the most visited places in the whole city. Getting there you will often see couples, many people will choose this place to propose. Champ de Mars is also a good place to bring baguette, fromage and wine and have a picnic with your loved one!
A stroll through Montmartre. The neighborhood on the hill above the Sacré-Coeur was famous way before the film Amélie was made, as it is a place full of charm and unique atmosphere. Strolling through its steep streets is a must for all couples looking for romantic places in Paris. And while you're there, you can admire the I Love You Wall. On the wall 311 times in approximately 280 different languages the phrase “ I love you” is written. You will find it in French, English and other major languages. The wall was created by a French artist Federic Baron. It combines contradictions - the wall is something that separates, generates borders and limitations, also different languages limit us and prevents us from understanding one another, however, the wall carries a strong message that love unites us, and it is a universal language. The wall stands as a symbol for reconciliation and reuniting the world. Today, the I Love You Wall is a popular spot where many lovers meet. While walking around Montmartre don't forget about our tour which will give you a perfect introduction to this charming, artistic neighbourhood.

romantic places in Paris

Restaurants and cafeterias. Finally the ultimate reason to visit Paris - food! It will be a straight path to the heart of your beloved! Paris is full of small, romantic restaurants offering delicious French cuisine. This is another reason why Paris is the number one destination for couples looking for romantic time! From delicious wine and champagne, cheese, foie gras up to desserts… Paris offers some of the best food in the world. The combination of yummy food and romantic restaurants make this city perfect for a romantic getaway. Many of the restaurants you see in Paris have kept their antique décor making them very charming and cozy. Some of the most romantic restaurants in Paris in our opinion are: Le Petite Bouillon Pharamond, Le Bouillon Julien, La Tour d’Argent and Girafe. The last one offers an amazing view of the Eiffel Tower!

romantic restaurants in Paris

So if you are looking for a place to spend a romantic weekend or even to propose, Paris will not disappoint you! Come here and feel the amour! ❤️

Eva Serrano

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Paris is one the most visited cities in the world, with no shortage of landmarks and history. But what may not be apparent to visitors to Paris is that there is a specific logic to how the city is laid out, with some of the most famous monuments of the city placed on an important axis.

The Axe historique de Paris ( meaning “historic axis of Paris”) is a line of monuments and buildings along a series of broad avenues that extends from the center of Paris to the west. It is based on the old “Voie Triomphale” or “Triumphal Way”, an old historic Roman road that existed in Italy.

Today, along with Metro line 1, the historic axe of Paris informally encompasses the east side as well. There is a slight bend in the line to trace the line of the Seine River that flows alongside.

The line of monuments trace the history of the city of Paris, from its initial beginnings, traumatic revolutions, and wars to the modern city that it is today.

Many of the wide thoroughfares that connect the monuments date back to the 1860s when Baron Haussmann reimagined Paris’s architecture to improve the flow of carriage traffic, and movement of goods and people. So let’s explore the Axe historique of Paris, shall we? Allons-y!

1. Palais du Louvre

In the heart of the 1st arrondissement of Paris is the Louvre Museum, the world’s largest art museum, and a UNESCO historic monument.

The fortress that became the Chteau du Louvre was initially built in 1190 French King Louis Auguste. Its location on the Right bank of the Seine river was across from the older part of Paris, which was formerly called Lutece (today Ile de la Cité and the Latin quarter in the 5th arrondissement).

This was the center for the Frankish kings, eventually settling outwards in the Ile-de-France.

Miniature painting of the Palais du Louvre, from the Très Riches Heures du Duc de Berry. Courtesy of Wikipedia

Subsequent kings during the Middle ages would expand the fortress, using the Louvre as a royal residence, a prison, a place for keeping the treasury, and even for a library, before finally becoming a museum. You can read more the history of the Palais du Louvre here.

Today it holds everything from paintings like Mona Lisa to sculptures by Michaelangelo. There is just not enough time to see the 35,000 pieces of art that are on display at the Louvre.

Many of the works were placed there by French Kings and Queens throughout history, including Napoleon Bonaparte who set off pillaging various artworks across Europe. Acquisitions were made of Spanish, Austrian, Dutch, and Italian works, either as the result of war looting or formalized by treaties.

With objects ranging from Egyptian antiquities to European art, the Lourve museum has to be on the bucket list of any first-time vistor to Paris. If you do plan on visiting the Louvre, you can read more about the works of art you shouldn’t miss at the Louvre here.

Note: During the busy summer season, tickets often are only sold online for timed entrances. Book in advance to avoid disappointment.

2. Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel

Directly in the courtyard of the Louvre is the Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel that was commissioned by Napoleon to commemorate his military victories (along with the “other” Arc de Triomphe on the Champs Elysées).

Initially, on top of the Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel were placed the Horses of Saint Mark. They had adorned the Basilica of San Marco in Venice since the sack of Constantinople in 1204 and had been brought to Paris where they were placed atop Napoleon’s Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel.

After Napoleon Bonaparte’s defeat at the Battle of Waterloo, many of the countries he had previously conquered asked for their artwork back. The Horses of Saint Mark were returned to Italy and today there is a copy on top instead.

3. Palais des Tuileries

Directly next to the Louvre Museum is the Jardin des Tuileries. This was once the site of a historic royal palace, the Palais des Tuileries, and it is in this palace that Marie-Antoinette, Louis XVI and their children were brought to after being forced to leave Versailles.

Illustration of Tuileries Palace and Louvre Palace in 1615

Louvre Palace in 1615 – Courtesy of XIII Wikipedia

French Queen Catherine de Medici started building the Palais des Tuileries two centuries earlier in 1564, a stone’s throw away from the Palais du Louvre. Later monarchs would go on to add wings and attach the Tuileries and the Louvre.

After several revolutions, it was burnt down during the Paris Commune protests in 1871. Portions of attached Louvre were also destroyed, but were saved by the efforts of Paris firemen and museum employees. The Tuileries Palace however, was destroyed.

Today, it is a large expansive garden, the “backyard” of locals living in this part of the Right bank. Entry to the gardens is Free.

Axe historique of Paris: 9 Monuments that define the City of Lights 1

Right across from the Jardin des Tuileries is the Palais-Royal which is today a series of government offices. It consists of several buildings which are interconnected, with a foreground courtyard, and a larger garden courtyard all within the premises.

And within the inner courtyard Cour d’Honneur of the Palais Royal in Paris is the art installation by Daniel Buren, called the Colonnes de Buren. Tourists cannot visit inside Palais Royal, but you can read more about it here.

4. Place de la Bastille

Directly to the east of the Louvre Museum along a large boulevard is the epicenter of the French Revolution.

The Place de la Bastille is where the ancient prison called Bastille Saint-Antoine was located before it was destroyed. The original old fort was built at Bastille between 1370 and 1383 during the reign of King Charles V to protect the east end of Paris along the Seine.

Place de la Bastille, Paris

The fortress was declared a state prison in 1417, and its dungeons and cells continued to be used as a prison for important political prisoners until the revolution, including the “Man in the Iron Mask”.

On July 14, 1789 the revolutionaries stormed into the Bastille, freeing all the prisoners and beheading the prison’s governor and stuck his head on a spike. The revolution had begun and soon spread all across Paris and the rest of France.

Some of the stones from the prison at Bastille were used to build to the Pont de la Concorde that leads from the Place de la Concorde to the Assemblée Nationale (France’s House of Representatives) which is in the 7th arrondissement.

5. Place de la Concorde

In a straight thoroughfare from the Place de la Bastille, past the Louvre Museum, is the Place de la Concorde in the 8th arrondissement and its towering Egyptian obelisk.

This marks the spot where Marie-Antoinette, King Louis XVI and other members of French nobility had their heads guillotined during the French Revolution.

If you are interested in is era, follow my self-guided walking Revolution tour. These days, the Place de la Concorde is a giant roundabout, with a fountain in the middle and the American Embassy next to it.

6. Avenue de Champs Elysées

The famed Champs Elysées may today be known better as a shopping street, but it has also historically been the street that has seen the conquering armies of Napoleon Bonaparte, Prussians, Hitler, and the Allied army parade celebrations at the end of WWII.

Famous victory marches around or under the Arc de Triomphe include:

the Germans in 1871 – Franco-Prussian war
the French in 1919 – WWI
the Germans in 1940 – the invasion of France at start of WWII
French and Allied Forces in 1944-45 – end of WWII

Nowadays, there are military marches every 14 Juillet (Bastille Day) and 11 November (Armistice day) where the President of France and other dignitaries gather with flags to pay tribute to those who have fought for the country’s freedoms.

Within a few 100 yards of the Champs Elysées is the official residence of the President of France. It only open to tourists on Journée du Patrimoine in each September, but you can read more about my visit to the incredible Palais de l’Elysée here.

7. Arc de Triomphe

The Arc de Triomphe is one of the most symbolic monuments in France, with the unknown soldier buried at its base, along with the eternal flame.

Both the Arc de Triomphe on the Champs Elysées, as well as a 2nd one that is standing in front of the Louvre, were commissioned by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1806 to commemorate his victories.

Arc de Triomphe at the west end of the Champs Elysées

His defeat by the British meant that he never saw it finished. It was finally completed in 1836, and become a rallying point for both French and foreign armies.

You can climb up to the top of the Arc de Triomphe and bow to the tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the Eternal Flame. Lines are long so buy your tickets to the Arc de Triomphe here.

8. La Défense

In a straight line from the Arc de Triomphe is a new modern “Arch” made of glass and concrete.

From a distance, the Grand Arch de la Défense looks likes it belongs in a modern North American city. Essentially this area came about in the 1950s when the decision was made that no one wanted these large office buildings within Paris intra-muros to spoil the look of all those lovely 18-century Hausmannian buildings.

Grand Arch de la Défense

It was decided then, to construct those new office towers in an area west of Paris. This new business area would be placed along the Axe Historique de Paris, showing the movement from Old World to the New Industry.

The new business district was built in the department of Hauts-de-Seine, but is still part of the Grand Paris region. Today, Place de la Défense is a hub for multinational corporations and is considered the largest business district in Europe, with the highest concentration of offices.

9. Place de la Nation

Although technically not part of the Axe historique de Paris, the Place de la Nation on the east end also follows the straight line of Metro Line 1 from Place de la Bastille.

Once outside of Paris, this was part of the old village of Pique-Puce (Picpus). A throne was installed here in 1660 for the solemn entry into Paris of King Louis XIV and Marie-Thérèse of Austria after their marriage in Saint-Jean-de-Luz, giving it the name “Place du Trône”, meaning “Place of the throne”.

It would be renamed “Place du Trône-Renversé”, meaning Place of the tossed over throne” during the French Revolution, eventually becoming absorbed into Paris and becoming the “Place of the Nation”.

These days, it has become a symbolically important square in Paris, where protests and other gatherings often start or end.

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