Top 13 Romantic Weekend Getaways from Paris

by Kayla D. Martinez
3 mins read
romantic weekend getaways from paris

After some time spending in Paris, you might want to look for something else when with your partner, as Paris is to crowded and youโ€™re looking for a more quite and intimate ambiance.

Imagine fleeing to Versailles, a royal and gorgeous city, or getting lost in Alsace’s storybook streets. Or maybe try something new on the Normandy Coast or drink good wine in the Loire Valley or Burgundy.

From majestic Chantilly and Fontainebleau to tranquil Giverny and Chartres, France offers it all. The Champagne Region is also a great drinking spot.

Want to know in detail? Keep reading to find out!

Top 13 Most Romantic Weekend Getaways from Paris

Going on a vacation means planning. And before executing, you must learn about the place, distance, transport, etc. To help you out, here is some short guidance on your destination, travel time, and activities:

DestinationTravel Time from ParisKey Feature
Versailles30โ€“51 minPalace & Gardens
Chantilly30 min.โ€“1 hrChรขteau de Chantilly & Gardens
Fontainebleau40 min.- 1 hr 15 minChรขteau & Forest
Giverny1 hr 30 minMonet’s home & gardens
Chartres1 hr 30 minChartres Cathedral & Old Town
Champagne Region2 hrs 15 min Rolling hills, champagne houses
Loire Valley2.5 hrs.โ€“3 hrs Lush landscapes, historic chรขteaux
Normandy Coast3 hrs Beaches, cliffs, & historic towns
ร‰tretat3โ€“3.5 hrs Cliffs, arches, & peaceful scenery
Burgundy3.5 hrs Vineyards, historic towns
Alsace Region3.5 – 4.5 hrs Vineyards & charming towns
Mont Saint-Michel4โ€“5 hrsAbbey & medieval village
Provence8โ€“9 hrsLavender fields, olive groves, & vineyards

So, donโ€™t wait any longer and letโ€™s explore what awaits you and your partner beyond Paris:

Versailles

How to Get There from Paris

The most convenient way to get there is to take a RER train, taking one and a half hours, depending on the initial location.

However, if you are more into flexibility and privacy, then you can also rent a car and drive to Versailles within 30โ€“40 minutes.

Versailles: The Opulent Retreat
Versailles

Why itโ€™s the Choice for a Romantic Getaway from Paris

It’s a lovely place to spend the weekend that looks like it belongs in a fairy tale. After Hall of Mirrors, you and your partner can explore Marie Antoinette’s cute village or have a picnic by the Grand Canal.

Best Time to Visit

The most ideal times to visit this place are spring (April – June) and autumn (September – October). During these months, the place offers a pleasant and colorful view with a smaller crowd.

Romantic Activities in Versailles

  • Fountain shows in the evening and walks through musical gardens that create the right atmosphere.
  • Private guided tours are a great way to find secret gems, or you can relax on a rowboat on the Grand Canal.

Chantilly

How to Get There from Paris

Getting to Chantilly is as easy as pie. A short train ride from Gare du Nord will transport you to this dreamy destination within just 25 minutes.

For a direct and flexible option, you can choose to drive as well. It will take approximately 42 minutes to reach there.

Chantilly: A Fairytale Escape
Photo by Pascal Bernardon on Unsplash

Why itโ€™s the Choice for a Romantic Getaway from Paris

Chantilly feels like a page ripped straight from a storybook, with its majestic chรขteau and sprawling gardens.

Couples can lose themselves in the romance of this picturesque town, surrounded by centuries of history and natural beauty.

An ideal setting for a fairytale romance to take place.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit this place is the Spring and Autumn. You can enjoy your trip freely without the scorching sun or the freezing winter.

Romantic Activities in Chantilly

  • Spend quality time in the beautiful Chantilly garden.
  • Visit the Horse Museum to recall 18th-century history.
  • Take a walk around the Domaine de Chantilly.

Fontainebleau

How to Get There from Paris

By train, it will take around 35 minutes to reach the destination. Or else, you can take a bus from Paris Gare de Lyon โ€“ Charolais to Melun.

After reaching Melun, take another bus from Place de l’Ermitage-Melun to Place de lโ€™ร‰tape in Fontainebleau. But I would suggest taking a train. It would be much easier.

Fontainebleau: The Historic Elegance
Photo by Iris on Unsplash

Why itโ€™s the Choice for a Romantic Getaway from Paris

Fontainebleau boasts a rich tapestry of history and elegance, making it an idyllic setting for a romantic escape.

From its magnificent chรขteau to its lush forests, Fontainebleau offers couples a chance to step back in time and indulge in the romance of the past.

Best Time to Visit

Try to go there in the spring or summer. You can really enjoy your tour in these seasons, as it offers pleasant weather.

Romantic Activities in Fontainebleau

  • Make sure to check out the palace, its huge grounds, and its land.
  • You can hike, ride a bike, or scoot around the Forest of Fontainebleau.
  • At the Grand Parquet, you can watch horse races.

Giverny

How to Get There from Paris

The easiest way to get there and spend some romantic holidays in France is to take a train. From Vernon-Giverny station, hop on a shuttle bus for the Giverny day trip from Paris (departures every 15 minutes) for a mere โ‚ฌ10 roundtrip.

Giverny: The Artistic Escape into Giverny
Giverny

Why itโ€™s the Choice for a Romantic Getaway from Paris

Giverny is a haven for art lovers and romantics alike, with its beautiful landscapes and vibrant gardens serving as inspiration for Claude Monet’s iconic works.

Couples can immerse themselves in the beauty of this artistic enclave and create their own masterpiece of romance.

Best Time to Visit

Usually, the site opens from late March/early April until early November. Shoulder seasons (April and October) are ideal to avoid crowds.

On the other hand, summer offers long, warm days and excellent light for photos.

Romantic Activities in Giverny

  • You can take a leisurely walk through the narrow streets of Giverny. Or maybe take a hot air balloon ride.
  • Visit the Fondation Claude Monet houses, the famous gardens that inspired Claude Monetโ€™s iconic water lily paintings.

Chartres

How to Get There from Paris

You can simply take a train from Paris Montparnasse 1 Et 2 station to Chartres station to get one of the best weekend trips from Paris. It takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Alternatively, you can take a train via Versailles Chantiers. But, in that case, you have to change trains at Versailles Chantiers. This route will take 1 hour 53 minutes. Or else you can drive to Chartres within 58 minutes.

Chartres: The Gothic Charm
Photo by Pascal Bernardon on Unsplash

Why itโ€™s the Choice for a Romantic Getaway from Paris

Chartres exudes an irresistible charm with its stunning cathedral, cobblestone streets, and quaint cafes. Couples seeking a romantic escape will find themselves enchanted by the timeless beauty and historic ambiance of this marvelous town.

Best Time to Visit

Spring is ideal for sightseeing, with mild weather and the stunning Chartres Cathedral Light Show. On the other hand, summer brings warmth, crowds, and the vibrant Festival of Lights.

Romantic Activities in Chartres

  • Admire the breathtaking Gothic architecture of Chartres Cathedral.
  • Enjoy a romantic French dinner at a cozy Chartres restaurant.
  • Take a hand-in-hand stroll through Chartresโ€™ illuminated streets.

Champagne Region

How to Get There from Paris

The best way to plan romantic weekend getaways from Paris for couples is by train. Take a train from Paris-Est station to ร‰pernay station within. Or you can take a train via Reims, from Paris City Centre – Bercy Seine to Reims Champagne Ardenne TGV. By car, it may take 1 hour and 49 minutes to cross 150.5 km.

Champagne Region: The Bubbly Bliss
Champagne Region

Why itโ€™s the Choice for a Romantic Getaway from Paris

It has stunning vineyards and offers the chance to taste the world’s finest bubbly together.

It’s perfect for couples, offering serene views, cozy cellar tours, and intimate moments away from the crowds. Here, every sip and sunset celebrates love.

Best Time to Visit

If you don’t like crowds, then avoid summer. You can enjoy the vibrant city with fewer people in the fall.

Romantic Activities in Champagne

  • Visit top champagne houses through Champagne tours like Ruinart, Moรซt et Chandon, and Veuve Clicquot for a romantic, bubbly experience.
  • Take a stroll through the Parc des Bords de l’Eure.
  • You can join a champagne picnic or take a private ride on the Marne River at sunset.

Loire Valley

How to Get There from Paris

If you are in the south of Paris and want to see some romantic places in France, drive to the Loire Valley. Itโ€™s just 100 km away from Paris.

On the other hand, if you want to save money for other activities, then TGV (high-speed train) is another good option to go there.

Loire Valley: The Fairytale Chรขteau
Loire Valley

Why itโ€™s the Choice for a Romantic Getaway from Paris

By visiting Chรขteaux, you can create your fairy tale with your dear one. Scenic river views and beautiful vineyards create an atmosphere that is truly enjoyable for couples. Here, you can write timeless love stories every other day.

Best Time to Visit

As this place is known as the “Garden of France,” it’s natural that spring would be the best time to visit this place. Other than that, Autumn is also a good choice if you want to taste wine, go shopping, and go on boat trips.

Romantic Activities in Loire Valley

  • Hand in hand, explore the colorful, blooming gardens of the Loire Valley’s historic chรขteaux.
  • See the stunning villages and scenic views with leisurely bike rides along the riverbanks.
  • Experience tastings of the valley’s renowned wines, and visit some of the most prestigious vineyards.
  • Enjoy local cuisine with a private dinner in one of the region’s historic towns.
  • Hot air balloon rides over the scenic countryside.
  • Guided tours of the majestic Chรขteau de Chambord and Chรขteau de Chenonceau.

Related Post: Top Activities & Travel Tips for Loire Valley Day Trip

Normandy

How to Get There from Paris

A TGV (high-speed) train is the best option to go there, and it will take about 3.5 hours to reach there.

Normandy: The Coastal Charm
Normandy

Why itโ€™s the Choice for a Romantic Getaway from Paris

Normandy’s picturesque coastline and quaint villages make it an ideal destination and here you will find some of the best places to visit for couples seeking a romantic escape.

From romantic beach walks to delicious seafood dinners, Normandy offers endless opportunities for amour. Last but not least, you can enjoy cozy accommodations at affordable prices.

Best Time to Visit

Summer is the peak season to visit Normandy. But if you want to avoid the crowds, you can go there in spring.

Romantic Activities in Normandy

  • You can take a walk along the beaches of ร‰tretat and admire the cliffs.
  • Experience the magic of Mont Saint-Michel together.
  • Take a romantic stroll through lush apple orchards, and maybe even enjoy a cider-tasting session in the heart of the countryside.
  • Explore rich artistic and historical heritage by visiting museums and galleries that celebrate the region’s past and present.
  • Sampling local cuisine with a romantic dinner in Deauville.

ร‰tretat

How to Get There from Paris

At first, hop on a train from Paris St Lazare to Breaute Beuzeville Ter. Then, take the bus from Breaute Beuzeville to Etretat-Normandie Autocar.

Alternatively, you can take a BlaBlaCar Bus from Paris – Pont de Levallois to Le Havre. For the best experience, I would suggest driving there with your partner and enjoying the roadside views.

You can use the BlaBlaCar app to get the fastest and smoothest experience.

ร‰tretat: The Dramatic Coastline
ร‰tretat

Why itโ€™s the Choice for a Romantic Getaway from Paris

ร‰tretat’s dramatic coastline and natural beauty make it a dream destination for couples seeking romance and adventure.

Be it exploring famous places or indulging in fresh seafood by the sea, ร‰tretat offers an unforgettable escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit the coastline of ร‰tretat is from late spring to early autumn, specifically between May and September.

Romantic Activities in ร‰tretat

  • Explore the beautiful trails that lead to the top of ร‰tretat’s.
  • Hike steep rocks with your partner to get a breathtaking view of the sunset over the water.
  • Take some memorable pictures of the natural arches and chalk cliffs.
  • To get a different view of the rocks, make sure to take a boat tour.

Burgundy

How to Get There from Paris

The best way to visit Burgundy is to take a high-speed TGV train to Dijon. From Dijon, you can take different local trains to explore the city. If you are driving there, you can take the A6 highway through Dijon to Beaune.

Why itโ€™s the Choice for a Romantic Getaway from Paris

Rolling vineyards, historic chateaux, and charming towns make Burgundy a lovely destination. Wine, history, and nature lovers will adore it.

No wonder, it’s one of the best romantic weekend getaways from Paris. Plus, couples who love to try different cuisines can enjoy them to the fullest.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Burgundy is from May to October, when the weather is pleasant, and the vineyards are colorful. Also, you can visit the place during the harvest season in September.

Romantic Activities in Burgundy

  • You can take a wine tour and taste the famous Burgundy wines.
  • Exploring the charming villages of Beaune, Dijon, and Vรฉzelay.
  • Experience a memorable meal at one of Burgundy’s many places with a Michelin star.
  • For an unforgettable experience, ride in a hot air balloon over Burgundy’s vineyards and scenery at sunrise or sunset.
  • Take a guided tour or rent a boat to cruise Burgundy’s rivers and enjoy the natural environment.

Alsace

How to Get There from Paris

TGV high-speed trains are the best option for going to Alsace Region. You can take a train from Paris-Est to Sรฉlestat. Or take a bus from Paris City Centre – Bercy Seine to Strasbourg, and then catch a train to Sรฉlestat.

However, if you want privacy, then you can drive through the A6 highway and reach Alsace.

Why itโ€™s the Choice for a Romantic Getaway from Paris

With its cobblestone streets, and half-timbered houses adorned with flowers, Alsace is one of the most romantic cities in France. Couples can enjoy their hearts out here. With intimate wine tastings, cozy inns, and scenic walks through vineyards or along the Rhine River, it will take all your stress away.

Best Time to Visit

The vineyards and scenery are at their best in Alsace from late spring to early autumn (May to October).

Many wine and cultural festivals occur during this time. Also, from late November to December, the region’s Christmas markets provide a joyful and romantic atmosphere for travelers.

Romantic Activities in Alsace

  • Wine tasting and exploring the Alsace Wine Route.
  • Seasonal charm: Christmas markets in winter, flower-decked streets in spring.
  • Explore Alsace’s famous Wine Route and enjoy intimate wine in stunning vineyards.
  • Stroll around the charming streets of Colmar, the “Little Venice” of France.
  • Enjoy the romance of Alsace’s hilltop castles or maybe a romantic dinner in traditional Alsatian restaurants.
  • Rent bikes and explore the scenic countryside.

Mont Saint-Michel

How to Get There from Paris

The most convenient way to reach Mont Saint-Michel from Paris is to take a train from Paris to Rennes, and then hop on a bus to Mont Saint-Michel. It will take 3.5 hours in total to reach the destination.

Mont Saint-Michel: The Mystical Island
Photo by Fab Lentz on Unsplash

Why itโ€™s the Choice for a Romantic Getaway from Paris

Mont Saint-Michel is a beautiful place to plan romantic holidays in France. Here, you can have an excellent time with your other half peacefully.

The most amazing part of this place is its stunning views. You will get to see the breathtaking sunset from an island.

Best Time to Visit

Spring and fall are the two best times to visit this place. During these times, the weather is mild and the crowds are thinner, allowing for a more intimate exploration of the island.

Romantic Activities in Mont Saint-Michel

  • Enjoy a gorgeous sunset from the ramparts or bay to see the island’s colors.
  • Explore Mont Saint-Michel Abbey’s hidden gems.
  • Walk hand in hand through the cobblestone streets to find charming stores and cafes.
  • Make sure to have a romantic dinner at one of the island’s restaurants, such as La Mรจre Poulard’s omelette or fresh seafood.
  • Watching the tide come in from a cozy seaside restaurant.
  • Guided twilight tours for an unforgettable experience.

Provence

How to Get There from Paris

Planning romantic holidays in France means a peaceful journey with easily accessible transport. The TGV is the fastest way to Provence, taking about 3 hours to get there.

For a leisurely couple trip, you can rent a car to explore the French countryside, needing about 7 hours of driving. However, you can stop in scenic regions with this option.

Provence: The Lavender Paradise
Provence

Why itโ€™s the Choice for a Romantic Getaway from Paris

Provence is a feast for the senses with its vibrant colors, intoxicating scents, and laid-back charm.

Couples seeking romance will find themselves surrounded by fields of lavender, charming villages, and delicious cuisine, making Provence the perfect destination for a romantic escape.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Provence to observe lavender in bloom is late June to early August. However, it’s peak tourist season, so prepare ahead.

Romantic Activities in Provence

  • Take a walk together through the beautiful lavender fields.
  • You can go on a wine-tasting tour of the famous farms of the Cรดtes de Provence and enjoy the region’s delicious rosรฉ wines.
  • Float over the breathtaking scenery of Provence at dawn or dusk.
  • Follow in the footsteps of artists like Van Gogh and Cรฉzanne. And take a day trip to the lovely Mediterranean coast.

Planning Your Romantic Weekend Getaway from Paris

Planning and getting ready for a trip is always exciting for me. Sometimes it is even more exciting than going to the place.

Hereโ€™s how to plan your getaway in the most effective way possible:

  • Plan Ahead: Choose destinations based on seasonal appeal and avoid summer and rainy seasons; visit popular attractions off-peak and book in advance during peak seasons.
  • Accommodation Choices: Opt for unique lodgings like castles or cozy inns; research and book romantic hotels based on recommendations and ratings.
  • Packing Essentials: Carry identity documents and important papers in an accessible pocket; bring necessary medicines, a raincoat or umbrella, extra shoes, sunscreen, and glasses; avoid overpacking.
  • Making Memories: Consider activities like culinary classes or nighttime boat sails; capture moments with photos, keep a diary, and gather keepsakes; cherish quality time with loved ones.

Tips for Traveling as a Couple in France

  • Make sure to try wines and dishes from the local area. For real tastes, book meals at small bistros or vineyards.
  • Pick small hotels or cozy bed and breakfasts that have features designed for couples.
  • Plan activities like hot air balloon rides, sunset cruises, or bike rides through the countryside to create memories that will last a lifetime.
  • At regional markets or events, you can really get into French culture.

Concluding Words

France is not only about Paris, the whole country is full of surprises. So why wait for Valentine’s Day to whisk your beloved away on a dreamy adventure?

With these captivating destinations mere hours away from Paris, you can indulge in romantic getaways all year round.

Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary, planning a proposal, or simply craving a spontaneous escape, let the magic of these idyllic retreats ignite your passion and create memories to last a lifetime.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the closest country to visit from Paris?

Belgium is the closest European country to Paris.

What else is close to Paris?

Loire Valley, Giverny, the Champagne region, etc are very close and visit-worthy places near Paris.

Where to go in France after Paris?

Well, it depends on your preference. If you are planning romantic weekend getaways from Paris by train, you should definitely visit the places I have mentioned in the blog. Such as Versailles, Chantilly, or Fontainebleau.

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