Five Romantic Vacation Ideas for Paris

If you're looking for romantic vacation ideas in Paris, you don't need the Eiffel Tower or a seriously expensive meal (unless you're Katie Holmes of course - in that case, it might work out quite well...).

The whole of Paris is romantic. You'll feel it in the air, in the cafés, on the street. Depending on who you ask, you'll probably get a different answer for the most romantic places to visit in Paris. Everyone has their own...and you'll no doubt find yours....

Here are five of our favourite Paris romantic vacation ideas. And the best part? They can be cheap romantic vacations - most of these are completely free!

Sit and Smooch

If you're looking for a place to sit, hold each other tight and whisper sweet nothings, try the elegant Luxembourg gardens, the secluded Jardin Alpin in the Jardin des Plantes, or the gorgeous Place des Vosges. Better still, seek out your own secret garden!

Picnic in the Park

Visit a local food market, pick up a baguette, cheese and bottle of wine, then head to one of Paris' many lovely parks for a romantic picnic.

Romantic Art

Visit the smaller museums of Paris such as the Musée Rodin. Marvel at the sensuous sculptures of this celebrated french artist, including his famous masterpiece, "The Kiss". You will also find sculptures here by Camille Claudel, who had a passionate and stormy affair with Rodin.

River Gazing

Taking a cruise along the seine is a romantic (and popular) way to see Paris. You could try the Vedettes du Pont Neuf (http://www.vedettesdupontneuf.com), which leaves from Pont Neuf (metro: Cite). The boats are smaller than the famous Bateaux Mouches, and you have a 'live' guide (rather than a taped commentary).

Even better (and cheaper!), explore the bridges of Paris on foot - they offer the most fantastic panoramas of the city.

We love going early in the morning, before the rest of Paris has fully woken up. You could try the Pont Neuf (the oldest bridge in Paris) or Pont Alexandre III, which has beautiful sculptures.

The Magic of Montmartre

Montmartre can get seriously crowded in high season. But this is mainly focused around Sacré Coeur, and the Place du Tertre. The locations where "Le Fabuleux Destin d'Amélie Poulain" movie was filmed, such as the café des Deux Moulins on Rue Lepic, are becoming increasingly popular.

But step away from these areas and head off the beaten path, and you'll discover quiet residential streets, wood-pannelled cafes, old bookshops, art galleries and tiny parks. Try heading north of Montmartre, around Rue Damremont.

We hope these Paris romantic vacation ideas will help you plan your special getaway.