Everyday in Paris can be like Valentine’s Day, if you stop to smell the roses.
The Paris Muse team captures the romance and beauty of the city all year round, via Instagram. Here are some romantic favorites from our feed, along with a few tips for celebrating love, Parisian style.
Evening Kisses at the Pompidou Center with a View of the Eiffel Tower
Soaking up the stunning views of Paris while enjoying world-class modern art makes for an ideal date. This year the museum (open in the evenings) will be closed on Valentine’s Day, since it’s a Tuesday, but it’s still at the top of our list to celebrate amour.
Photo: Paris Muse Officer Manager Jaime Chatfield
Indulge Your Sweet Tooth
The ubiquitous bakery windows of Paris are filled with delicious creations like this one by Sebastien Gaudard on the rue des Martyrs in the 9th arrondissement. Spend some time window shopping and you’ll be amazed by how many things can be transformed into art, even a chocolate cake.
Photo: Paris Muse Community and Site Manager Rachel Helfand
Pick the Perfect Bouquet
The flower shops in Paris are stunning at any time of the year. The arrangements can be works of art. Valentine’s Day is the perfect reason to take one home for your loved one. One of our favorite florists is Luc Gaignard at 71 Place du Docteur Lobligeois in the 17th arrondissement.
Photo: Paris Muse Office Manager Jaime Chatfield
Enjoy Dinner for Two
The French don’t celebrate Valentine’s Day as much as North Americans do, but they’re the best in the world at delicious, candle-lit meals to linger over (minus the premium prices for Valentine’s Day). If you do decide to have the snails in garlic butter (pictured above), make sure your date has them too. We recommend The Grand Coeur Restaurant at 41 Rue du Temple in the 4th arrondissement or Chez Josephine at Josephine “Chez Dumonet,” 117 rue du Cherche-Midi in the 6th arrondissement.
Photo: Paris Muse Editorial Projects Manager Melissa Anderson
Visit the “I Love You Wall” in Montmartre with Your Loved One
This big blue mural designed by artists Frédéric Baron and Claire Kito features the phrase “I love you” written 311 times in 250 languages, including sign language and Egyptian hieroglyphics. The scattered red shards represent a heart broken by linguistic differences. You’ll find it in Montmartre, on the Jehan Rictus square in the 18th arrondissement. Walls usually divide, but this one seeks to bring people together.
Photo: Paris Muse Guide Jacquetta Wheeler
Take in Some Art
The Louvre at night is breathtaking. The French sculpture galleries in the Richelieu Wing facing the Grand Pyramid are usually quiet in the evenings, making them the perfect place to enjoy a private moment to whisper sweet nothings. Or, take a tour with us on Wednesday or Friday evening, when the Louvre is open late. There is no better time to visit the museum, where beautifully made objects can inspire love of all kinds.
Photo: Paris Muse Guide Kelly Presutti