Travel experts at Seine River Cruises analysed data from TripAdvisor and Google Keyword Planner to identify the top romanitc destinations in France. Researchers ranked the 10 largest French cities based on factors such as monthly Google searches, the distance from the city centre to the nearest airport, and whether the destination is coastal or not.
The study also considered the number of tourist attractions, the availability of luxury hotels with romantic keywords in reviews such as ‘intimate’ and ‘romantic,’ as well as the presence of Michelin-starred and romantic restaurants with reviews mentioning words like ‘dreamy’ and ‘secluded’ in each city. Can you guess who is #1?
10. Marseille
This vibrant port city blends Mediterranean allure with French flair, offering scenic sea views and lively cultural energy. You can explore the charming Le Panier neighborhood, filled with winding alleys, colorful street art, and artisanal shops. For a breathtaking outing, take a boat tour to the Calanques National Park, where the turquoise waters and limestone cliffs make for a romantic escape.
As a coastal town, Marseille is ideal for couples who love seafood and fish. Additionally, it offers 10 tourist attractions, 6 luxury or romantic hotels, and 26 Michelin-starred or romantic restaurants per 100,000 people, making it a top choice for romantics seeking coastal charm and rich amenities.
9. Lyon
Lyon’s riverside views, hidden passageways, and renowned gastronomy make it a captivating city for newlyweds. The old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, features Renaissance architecture and scenic alleys perfect for exploring together. Couples can dine at intimate bouchons, savoring traditional Lyonnaise cuisine in one of France’s culinary capitals.
Couples can enjoy 15 tourist attractions, 11 luxury or romantic hotels, and 60 Michelin-starred or romantic restaurants.
8. Strasbourg
With its timbered houses and charming canals, Strasbourg feels like a scene from a fairytale. The enchanting Petite France district, with cobbled streets and cozy cafes, sets the perfect mood for a romantic escape. Don’t miss a twilight cruise along the River Ill, where the city’s twinkling lights create a magical atmosphere.
Plus it offers 14 tourist attractions, 18 luxury or romantic hotels, and 52 Michelin-starred or romantic restaurants.
7. Dijon
Known for its art and architecture, Dijon entices romantics with picturesque half-timbered houses, winding streets, and vibrant markets. The city’s gourmet delights, from mustard to Burgundy wines, offer culinary adventure for two. Stroll hand-in-hand through the historic Palace of the Dukes, savoring the charm of one of France’s lesser-known romantic spots.
Additionally, it offers 18 tourist attractions, 11 luxury or romantic hotels, and 46 Michelin-starred or romantic restaurants.
6. Clermont-Ferrand
Nestled at the foot of extinct volcanoes, Clermont-Ferrand charms with its unique natural surroundings and Gothic architecture. The city’s historic center, with its dramatic black volcanic stone cathedral, is ideal for scenic strolls and intimate evenings. Nearby, couples can explore the panoramic views from the Puy de Dôme, a UNESCO-listed volcano offering an unforgettable romantic experience.
Couples can enjoy 10 tourist attractions per 100,000 people, 5 luxury or romantic hotels, and 48 Michelin-starred or romantic restaurants.
5. Montpellier
Montpellier ranks as the fifth most romantic destination in France. Although it registers only 1.34 Google searches per 100,000 people each month, newlyweds should not overlook this southern French city.
For couples, Montpellier offers 13 tourist attractions, 17 luxury or romantic hotels, and 60 Michelin-starred or romantic restaurants per 100,000 people, making it a highly romantic yet underappreciated choice for romantics.
4 Nice
Nice, the second-largest French city on the Mediterranean coast, ranks fourth. With 59.06 monthly searches per 100,000 people, it is a popular and convenient destination just two kilometres from the nearest airport.
As a coastal town, Nice is ideal for couples who enjoy relaxing on the beach. Additionally, it offers 35 tourist attractions, 21 luxury or romantic hotels, and 73 Michelin-starred or romantic restaurants per 100,000 people, making it a top choice for romantics seeking coastal charm and rich amenities.
3. Aix-en-Provence
Aix-en-Provence, a charming university city in the south of France, takes third place as the most romantic destination. Although relatively unknown among newlyweds, with no monthly Google searches, it remains a hidden gem.
The nearest airport is 15 kilometres from the city centre, making the journey slightly longer. While Aix-en-Provence is also inland, it offers plenty for couples, including 31 tourist attractions, 53 luxury or romantic hotels, and 77 Michelin-starred or romantic restaurants — all per 100,000 people.
2 Paris
Paris ranks as the second most romantic destination in France. A highly popular choice for couples, the French capital sees 120.02 searches per 100,000 people each month.
The city’s proximity to the nearest airport—just one kilometre from the centre—makes it incredibly convenient for newlyweds to reach their accommodation. While Paris is inland and lacks a beach, its global status as a hub for art, gastronomy, and culture more than compensates.
Couples can enjoy 28 tourist attractions per 100,000 people, 33 luxury or romantic hotels, and 93 Michelin-starred or romantic restaurants, with reviews including words such as ‘dreamy’ or ‘secluded,’ offering unforgettable experiences.
1 Bordeaux
The study revealed Bordeaux as the most romantic destination in France. Known as the wine capital, Bordeaux records an impressive 40.62 related Google searches per 100,000 people each month.
The city is conveniently located just five kilometres from the nearest airport. While not a coastal destination, Bordeaux offers 42 attractions designed for couples and 46 luxury or romantic hotels, with reviews that include words like ‘romantic,’ ‘intimate,’ and ‘passionate’.
With an impressive 98 Michelin-starred or romantic restaurants per 100,000 people, it is a top choice for newlyweds seeking a charming and unforgettable experience.
Stay at One of the Most Luxurious Hotels in France!
France has so much to offer, including the Eiffel Tower, internationally renowned French cuisine with Michelin Stars, the French Riviera, and an abundance of art and culture, and of course, the French capital, Paris, the city of love. For the ultimate luxury and indulgence, here is a list the most expensive hotels in France that you mustn’t miss staying in if you can.