Top 4 Must-See French Destinations for a Romantic Weekend Getaway

Whether you want a romantic escape close to home or a little further away, in a well-known city or a quiet, idyllic region, France is full of ideal spots for a weekend getaway for two.

To guide travellers in search of the ideal destination for a romantic getaway, whether for a wedding anniversary, Valentine’s Day, or simply the pleasure of being together, Teritoria offers four inspiring ideas for short breaks that combine fine dining and charming hotels. Ideal suggestions for a romantic night away to surprise your other half.

Paris, the ultimate city for lovers

Stroll through the narrow streets of the Marais, cross the Seine via the Pont des Arts, wander through the Tuileries Gardens, climb the endless steps of Montmartre, and watch Paris fall asleep beneath your feet… Whether you have the childlike spirit of Amélie Poulain or the romantic boldness of a French-style Gene Kelly, Paris has a timeless power to enchant every heart.

Whether you’re history buffs or seekers of timeless moments, Paris has something for every couple. From Beaubourg and its modern art museum, to the Musée d’Orsay where you can (re)discover the Impressionists, or a picnic at the foot of the Eiffel Tower, the City of Light is brimming with romantic experiences for two.

For those dreaming of a romantic weekend in a Haussmann-style building on Avenue Marceau, the Hôtel Elysées Régencia is the ideal address in the capital. Artistic souls may prefer Hôtel Molière, just steps from the Louvre and the Comédie-Française, where the decor, dedicated to Jean-Baptiste Poquelin, sets the stage for their own romantic play.

A romantic getaway in the mountains

Why not escape to the mountains for a romantic weekend? In both summer and winter, whether blanketed in snow or dotted with blue gentians, the Alps offer travellers breathtaking beauty.

Nestled on the shores of its namesake lake, Annecy, the “Venice of the Alps”, has enchanted couples for centuries. At the Abbaye de Talloires, Mark Twain was captivated by the beauty of the site, while Paul Cézanne found inspiration here before painting his stunning Lac d’Annecy. From this timeless hotel, the views of the lake are simply breathtaking. For a romantic evening, why not complete your stay with dinner at the Abbaye’s restaurant, Aux Jardins des Délices, where gourmet cuisine, rooted in local produce, delivers elegance through deceptive simplicity.

The Atlantic Coast: A Dream Destination for a Romantic Getaway

On the western edge of France, the Atlantic coastline is an open invitation to travel and unwind. From the tip of Brittany to the Spanish border, the sea air and mild climate offer the sense of peace that nature lovers crave.

The Atlantic coast is steeped in legends that drift from port to port. While Nantes and La Rochelle inspire dreams worthy of a Jules Verne novel, the quiet port of Saint-Martin-de-Ré, tucked away on its coveted island at the foot of the Vauban citadel, is a hidden gem. It’s the birthplace of two great explorers: Émile-Arthur Thouar and Nicolas Baudin.

For a romantic getaway, La Baronnie Hôtel & Spa offers its guests a wellness haven in an 18th-century residence.

With its spa opening onto the garden, you can treat yourself to a private moment of pure relaxation. The wellness area can be fully privatised, giving you exclusive access to a counter-current swimming pool, a private jacuzzi with balneotherapy jets, and a sauna, all while sipping a glass of champagne. A romantic atmosphere is guaranteed in the heart of the Île de Ré.

Further south, visitors are sure to be enchanted by the authentic charm of the Basque Country.

In Saint-Jean-de-Luz, couples can follow in the footsteps of Maurice Ravel. Music is everywhere, even in the flavours of the local specialities that have made the town famous. “Ravioles de Xangurro” and “pastiza with black cherry jam” are delicacies to savour together over a romantic dinner.

For breathtaking views of the ocean, La Réserve, perched on the cliffside, welcomes couples looking to lose themselves in endless shades of blue.

To experience the charm of authentic Basque villages, head to the listed village of Sare and stop at L’Arraya, a hotel nestled in a former 16th-century hospice for pilgrims on the Way of St. James.

Provençal romanticism

While some swear by the French Riviera, a detour through Provence is a must for a romantic escape. Between the heady Luberon, the papal city of Avignon, and the mysterious Camargue lies the Alpilles Regional Park, a stunning landscape of limestone ridges just waiting to be explored. Walkers will enjoy discovering its rugged beauty, and after a stroll beneath the southern sun, resting in the shade of the olive trees will feel like pure bliss.

Perched on a rocky outcrop, the town of Les Baux-de-Provence marks the first foothills of the Alpilles massif. At Mas de l’Oulivié, the scents of the South drift through the cypress trees and onto the table.

Near Salon-de-Provence, the intimate Méjeans estate, a tastefully renovated old farmhouse, offers five rooms with delicious names like Praline and Calisson, perfect for a gourmet getaway where love takes center stage.

The charm of Burgundy

In the heart of the grand cru vineyards, from Puligny-Montrachet to Vosne-Romanée, Burgundy unfolds its legendary terroirs, from the Hospices de Beaune to the ducal city of Dijon. Food lovers and wine enthusiasts can savour a Meursault Vieilles Vignes, explore the historic cellars of the Château du Clos de Vougeot, or stroll through the serene beauty of Fontenay Abbey.

In the heart of the Meursault vineyards, Château de Cîteaux – La Cueillette is the perfect retreat for couples seeking a pampering wellness break, with its 500 m² spa and unique treatment concept: Fruitithérapie®.

For a night in the heart of Dijon, the elegant guesthouse La Cour Berbisey offers tastefully decorated rooms and the added luxury of an indoor swimming pool.

For an unusual romantic escape, whether for one night or a longer stay, the Château de Courban, near the Chablis wine region, offers a private suite in a beautifully restored former dovecote, perfect for a cosy night for two.