Date Night Ideas in Paris: A Guide by Season

Paris offers an endless opportunity for unique and cool date night ideas. Whatever your interest – music, art, sports, cinema- the city’s got no shortage of things to do and see. Here I’ve put together my top recommendations by season for fun dates in Paris, not just after night falls.

Springtime Cherry Blossoms

Possibly the best time of year to visit Paris, spring brings beautiful blooms and a lively vibe to the city. The cherry blossoms in particular are gorgeous. Globally, cherry blossom season is one of the most beautiful seasons anywhere. And it’s very romantic to admire the petals or picnic under the boughs. 

The blossoms usually grow to fruition around the end of March and into early April, when the temperature is still mild. Some people recommend focusing on early to mid April to see them in their peak before the season quickly comes to an end. In additional to the popular hanami festival at the Parc de Sceaux, there are a number of recommended spots, including the Jardins du Trocadéro overlooking the Eiffel Tower, and the Jardin des Plantes. This area is a 60-acre botanical garden that dates back to the 17th century. The oldest cherry trees in Paris can also be found here, including one that was planted in 1960. This garden draws in a lot of native Parisians, and is a great option for a romantic stroll through the trees.

For additional recommendations, check out our article, the “Best Places to See the Cherry Blossoms in Paris.”

Summertime Picnic in Belleville Park 

While Montmartre has incredible city views from Square Louise Michel, it’s often uncomfortably crowded with tourists beneath the Sacré Cœur Basilica. Instead, head to the Parc de Belleville, which also offers incredible panoramas with the Eiffel Tower in the distance. After you’ve taken in the view from the belvedere, set up your picnic. (Check out our article on “How to Enjoy a Perfect Parisian Picnic.”) The sunset view will be irreplaceable, and what better way to take it in than with shared wine or champagne. 

Seine River Cruise in the Fall 

When planning a trip to Paris, one of the top recommended activities is to go on a riverboat cruise. (My fiancé and I loved doing this on our last trip to Paris.) There are dozens of options for the cruise depending on what you’re looking for. Basic sightseeing boats allow you to enjoy views around the city during the day, evening, or nighttime. It will start in a certain spot depending on which you choose, and take you through the river to see the city landmarks. Companies include Vedettes du Pont Neuf, Bateaux Parisiens, Vedettes de Paris, and Bateaux Mouches.

You could also spring for something more involved and choose a cruise that offers a meal or experience along with it. Ducasse sur Seine offers gourmet meals, while the Don Juan II is the only Michelin-starred cruise. There are also private boats available for exclusive rental. (Check out the departures from Quai de la Photo in the 13th.)

We recommend this date for fall simply because of the weather, in that it won’t be cold yet but also won’t be scalding hot. With a more mild temperature and the breeze on the water, the experience would be nothing short of perfection.

Night at the Louvre in Winter

Winter in Paris comes with perks that you can’t find year round. Considered an off season for tourists, you won’t find the crowds in museums and landmarks. Plus, the trees and streets are lit up for the holidays, there are winter markets and the potential to see the streets dusted in snow. If you can handle the cold, I’d recommend coming at this time of year, especially for this type of date. During the winter season, museums like the Louvre are much less crowded and even empty in certain rooms. If you want a romantic and private date, a late evening trip to the Louvre can do just that. You can explore the museum without large crowds, and take everything in at your own pace and enjoyment. When you leave, you’ll be going back to the sight of the city lit up at night with that bit of extra winter and holiday cheer.