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Forget attaching a ‘love lock’ to the Pont des Arts bridge. From sightseeing in a vintage Citroën 2CV and making croissants to exploring Montmartre’s secret vineyard and the thrill of Disneyland® Paris, there are plenty of alternative ways to impress your other half in the City of Love. Grab your passport, book two plane tickets and whisk your partner off on a once-in-a-lifetime Parisian adventure.
Rent a vintage car
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What could be better than hiring a vintage yellow Citroën 2CV to cruise around the French capital? Say goodbye to hop-on hop-off buses, this is a much smarter way to give your beau the grand tour. Stick to the main inner city sights or venture out to the glittering Château de Versailles. It’s the best way to explore the hidden side to Paris beyond the tourist traps. You can even request a champagne picnic, complete with local cheese and fresh baguette.
Indulge in a French cooking class
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Parisians live for eating and drinking. In fact the act of enjoying a gourmet meal with friends - répas in French - is a protected under UNESCO Cultural Heritage. If you fancy learning the proper way to whip up some French cuisine, take a traditional cookery class. From rolling out butter-infused croissants to simmering bœuf bourguignon, it’s the perfect way to embrace French culture. Popular options also include following a chef around one of Paris’ famous markets, picking up local seasonal produce to craft a delicious lunch. Guaranteed to get your weekend away off to a romantic start.
Take a trip to Disneyland® Paris
© Disneyland Paris
Just a short ride outside the city, you will find Disneyland® Paris for a romantic experience with a difference. Boasting luxury spas with couple massages, Disney Illuminations projected on the dreamy Sleeping Beauty Castle and late-night dancing at Billy Bob’s, there are plenty of opportunities to be star-crossed lovers. Speaking of which, fans of the celestial won’t want to miss the brand new Star Wars Hyperspace Mountain attraction, while the Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster starring Aerosmith will have you clinging to each other. Finish your day with garlic moules and an ice-cold glass of Chablis at the Yacht Club restaurant.
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Drink a glass of wine at the secret vineyard
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Most tourists flock through Montmartre without realising there’s a secret vineyard hiding between the narrow streets. Wine has been produced here for over 2,000 years but only around three vineyards now survive in the area. It’s best to visit the beautiful sloping vineyard of Clos Montmartre during the annual harvest Fête des Vendanges on the second weekend of October. Book a tour of the vineyard followed by an obligatory glass of red overlooking the city.
Visit the Louvre after dark
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If you’ve ever been to Paris, you’ll know how busy the Louvre can get during the daytime. It’s hard to glimpse the famous Mona Lisa when it is surrounded by people taking selfies. Escape the crowds and visit the museum at night. Every Wednesday and Friday night, the Louvre is open to the public until 9:45pm. Wander the gallery in peace and make sure you pause to snap the glittering glass pyramid illuminated in the dark.
Explore the Père Lachaise Cemetery
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A cemetery might not be the most popular place for a date, but you can’t miss out visiting the Père Lachaise Cemetery on your amorous Parisian adventure. Follow the cobbled paths through intricately decorated tombs that look like mini-houses decked with flowers. Keep your eyes peeled for the burial chambers of Oscar Wilde, Jim Morrison, Édith Piaf, Frederic Chopin and the legendary 12th century lovers Abelard and Héloïse.
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Just a short journey direct from London’s St Pancras, Disneyland® Paris is an incredible, unforgettable experience that’s just on your doorstep. The centre of Paris is just 35 minutes on the RER train to Disneyland® Paris so you easily combine sightseeing with thrill-riding, experiencing fun and romance in one romantic package.