Couples Weekends Away in France

Paris is considered to be the most romantic city in the world, but there are lots of other places in France, just as perfect for a couples getaway.
Picturesque harbour, cobbled streets, and charming seaside vibes.

Honfleur (Normandy)

Distance from Paris: 120 miles (193 km), drive time approximately 2.5 hours.
Distance from Rouen: 45 miles (72 km), drive time approximately 1 hour.

Romantic Things to Do:

  • Stroll along the Vieux Bassin, a romantic harbour lined with colourful buildings.
  • Drive to Étretat to admire its dramatic cliffs and natural arches.
  • Explore the quaint streets and art galleries in Honfleur.
  • Dine at a waterfront restaurant with fresh seafood and local specialties.

Fairytale castles, lush vineyards, and charming countryside.

The Loire Valley

Distance from Paris: 125 miles (200 km), drive time approximately 2.5 hours.
Distance from Tours: 40 miles (64 km), drive time approximately 1 hour.

Romantic Things to Do:

  • Drive to Château de Chenonceau, known as the “Ladies’ Castle,” and walk through its gardens.
  • Visit Château de Chambord, a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture.
  • Enjoy a scenic drive through the vineyards, stopping for a picnic of delicious bread and local cheese from Sainte-Maure-de-Touraine.
  • Take a leisurely bike ride together along the Loire à Vélo cycling route.

A magical island topped with a medieval abbey, best visited off-season.

Mont Saint-Michel

Distance from Paris: 225 miles (362 km), drive time approximately 4 hours.
Distance from Rennes: 45 miles (72 km), drive time approximately 1 hour.

Romantic Things to Do:

  • Take a road trip through the Normandy countryside to get to the Mont.
  • Walk across the tidal causeway to the island as the sun rises.
  • Explore the stunning Abbaye du Mont-Saint-Michel together.
  • Stay nearby overnight to see the Abbey as the sun sets over the sea. 

Lavender fields, rolling vineyards, and charming hilltop villages.

Provence

Distance from Paris: 465 miles (748 km), drive time approximately 7 hours.
Distance from Marseille: 50 miles (80 km), drive time approximately 1 hour.

Romantic Things to Do:

  • Drive through the Lavender Route in Valensole (seasonal: June–August).
  • Visit the romantic hilltop village of Roussillon, famous for its ochre cliffs.
  • Enjoy a scenic drive through Les Alpilles, stopping in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence.
  • Dine under the stars in Aix-en-Provence, surrounded by Provençal charm.

Crystal-clear lake, canals, and stunning alpine scenery.

Annecy (The Venice of the Alps)

Distance from Paris: 340 miles (547 km), drive time approximately 5.5 hours.
Distance from Lyon: 80 miles (129 km), drive time approximately 1.5 hours.

Romantic Things to Do:

  • Take a scenic drive around Lake Annecy, stopping for a lakeside picnic.
  • Stroll through the charming Old Town, with its canals and pastel-coloured buildings.
  • Rent a pedal boat or take a romantic cruise on the lake.
  • Dine at a lakeside restaurant, with panoramic views across the water.

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