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Is Paris the City of Love? Well, of course, it is Paris! But Why is Paris Called the City of Love? If you want to explore this question and discover romance in Paris, you’ve come to the right place.
In fact, a recent survey revealed that 92% consider Paris a romantic city! If you want to know now what exactly it is that makes Paris the city of love, you came to the right place. In this post, I put together a list of 13 reasons why Paris is the city of love.
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For many, Paris is the city of love and this belief is picked up by a plethora of movies, songs, and novels. A romantic getaway in a rom-com? Let’s go to Paris! Is someone recovering from a painful breakup? A crêpe under the Eiffel Tower will fix it!
If you say romance, you have to say Paris. But what is it that makes Paris so utterly romantic? Is there something in the air? Is it the food? The gorgeous landscape? Or the people? Let’s find out!
Paris: City of Love – 13 Reasons Why
So, here’s for you without further ado my list of 13 reasons, based on research, observations, and personal experience, that make Paris the city of love.
#1 The Romantic Era left a long-lasting impression on Paris
The Romantic Era had its roots in Germany with the pre-romantic movement of Sturm & Drang (Goethe!). Due to the French Revolution, Romanticism made it late to France, but powerful. The Romantic Era was a perfect fit for Paris with its new ideals of liberty, equality, and fraternity.
The movement developed in all disciplines: theater, art, music, and of course literature, and by the early 19th century, it was all there ever was. Paris got romantic.
Even though it’s centuries ago, the romantic era left its footprint in Paris until today. The best example is the Grand Staircase in the Paris Opera, or the Hameau de la Reine in the Gardens of Versailles.
But you can see it as well in the Louvre. Many of the most famous painting of the Louvre can be allocated to Romanticism. Above all, Eugène Delacroix with his painting Liberty Leading the People that can is one of the French national symbols.
Let’s not forget about Literature. Victor Hugo belongs to the Era. As well Alexandre Dumas with the Count of Monte Cristo.
For the full Romanticism experience, visit the Musée de la Romantique! It’s located in the house of the writer and poet George Sand near Montmartre. (Who was actually a woman using a mens name to be published)
#2 The Parisian Landmarks are symbols of Love
Who has not dreamed of a proposal at the top of the Eiffel Tower? Or a cozy stroll along the Seine? Paris is full of romantic places like that.
Here are a few of the romantic landmarks of Paris that add to the love is in the air flair.
The Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower is one of the most famous landmarks in the world and a top Parisian tourist attraction. But it’s also one of the most sought-after places for a proposal. Did you know that there are apparently 5-10 proposals per day on the Eiffel Tower? And that’s just the ones that are somewhat visible.
The place is so popular for popping the question, that you can even book proposal packages. Perfect if you would rather not trust the odds and make sure that you and your loved one live the perfect moment.
But there is more to it. Because even if you don’t propose, the Eiffel Tower has something magical about it. A couple’s picture with the Tower in the backdrop is the quintessence of a romantic trip to Paris. The Eiffel Tower is the symbol of love.
The Louvre
The Louvre is not only the biggest but also one of the oldest museums in the world with a fascinating history. While a museum might not be the most romantic place, the Louvre is special. Already because it holds all the old masters from the Romanticism Era, that I’ve told you already about. But seeing the Mona Lisa with your loved one and sharing this moment… links you forever. Perhaps your love won’t last, but you can be sure to always be remembered as the one they saw the Mona Lisa with.
The Tuileries Garden
From the Louvre, you can go straight to the Tuileries Garden for a romantic stroll. The garden is huge and has beautiful sculptures, fountains, and flowers all year long.
In summer, there are also little cafés where you can enjoy a glass of wine or an ice cream in the sun. Or you just take a couple of the green chairs and enjoy a moment together. There is nothing better than getting lost in a conversation with your loved one in a beautiful setting.
The Wall of Love
And then there is of course as well the Wall of Love in Montmartre. A wall with the word “love” written 311 times in all different languages. It’s a very popular photo spot, but it is also the perfect place for a declaration of love or even a proposal.
You find the Wall of Love, also called “le mur des je t’aime” in the square Jehan-Rictus in the 18th arrondissement. Right by the Metro station, Abbesses.
It’s also the best starting point to head out to discover Montmartre. The district is pure romance with cute cafés, little alleys, and cobblestone lanes. If you want to go all in, visit at sunset or sunrise. You’ll have a breathtaking view of Paris.
Pont des Arts
Another iconic spot for Lovers is the Pont des Arts. A pedestrian bridge over the Seine with a spectacular view of Notre Dame Cathedral.
The Pont des Arts is also famous for being the bridge of love. For years, lovers wrote their name on a padlock, locked it on the bridge and threw away the key in the river. It was cute for a while, but then it was discovered that the weight of all the padlocks was actually damaging the foundation bridge. And all the keys that were thrown in the Seine destroyed the ecology of the river.
So please do not leave any padlocks on the Pont des Arts anymore. It’s much better to just enjoy the moment and the view with your loved one. If you want to add a lock for a picture, remember to remove it afterward and keep it as a souvenir.
#3 The delicious French Food
The old saying goes, a way to a man’s heart goes through his stomach. And I can assure you that counts for women as well.
Well, it is true that food has a very passionate and sensual aspect, and given the importance of food in French culture, it’s not surprising that eating IS very romantic in Paris. To unlock the romantic feature of food, you don’t need to dine in a 3* Restaurant and have champagne. Often, a shared warm Crêpe or a bite from a fluffy Macaron is enough to make your heart beat faster. Or go together on the hunt for the best pastry in Paris. You surely will enjoy it.
Plus, here we go a bit juicy, if it’s your thing, Paris is a good place to eat oysters! And we all know that oysters are supposed to be an aphrodisiac.
#4 The French Language
The French language is regularly referred to as the language of love. And it’s not only because it sounds beautiful and poetic. (It absolutely does.)
The French language is very sensual and can be used very seductively. The French language also knows a thousand words for their loved ones: mon amour, mon chou, mon cœur, ma belle, chérie, ma bichette… just to share a few ones.
By the way, I have a list of French captions and French Quotes about Paris, if you are looking for some original content for your social media channels.
#5 Paris is a destination for the Movies
How many rom-coms have you seen where they travel to Paris for the big declaration of love or the marriage proposal? Or where did they at least mention Paris? Without thinking too hard about it, I can name seven!
Every filmmaker who needs a romantic destination seems to think: Paris. Let’s go to Paris. And they do, and it’s beautiful. Always. Just seeing the Parisian cityscape in a film is such a strong motive – we know exactly what’s that supposed to mean. And it totally works. Paris in a movie means love and romance and nothing else.
Paris is the City of Love, especially by night
#6 Paris by Night is Magical
See my post about things to do in Paris by night for inspiration on what to do!
If you think that Paris is the city of love by day, wait until you saw it by night. When researching a bit for this article, I found many people asking is “Paris is the City of Love or Lights”, and honestly, Paris is both! But the lights certainly add to the romantic flair that you have all over Paris by night.
The city is beautifully illuminated by thousands of lights, and you can see the sparkling Eiffel Tower in all its glory. Perfect for a romantic stroll hand in hand with your loved one. And if you like, you can end the night with a glass of wine in a little bistro, enjoying the Parisian way of life.
Or: head to one of the best cocktail bars in Paris, or look for one of these hidden bars in Paris.
Just know, not only the Eiffel Tower is lit up, but all important monuments and buildings in Paris also have their special night lights. It looks wonderful, and it will make you feel like being in a different city at night.
Paris is the City of Love in film, books, and music
#7 Paris is in the Novels
See my list of the best books set in Paris to know what to read next.
Similar to the appearance of Paris in many movies, the city is equally often the background for novels and literature. So if you are a bookworm, you have probably already read a lot of love stories that take place in Paris. If you need a bit of inspiration on which book about Paris to read next, check out my post with lots of books set in Paris.
#8 The Parisians are Flirty
Who would have thought? Just kidding. Of course, they are! So much about the stereotypes. But as a non-French person with a non-French understanding of personal space … the bisou breaks so many boundaries and rises so many questions, that can easily be interpreted as flirty. But it’s also about the language, the wine, the street cafés, and the cheeky French waiters that provoke more smiles and winks than elsewhere.
#9 The Parisian Street Cafés
The many bistros and cafés are adding to the romantic flair of Paris in more than one way. If you sit outside, you both naturally want to face the street. So sitting next to each other is the only option, rather than being opposed. Perfect to hug and hold hands.
And if you prefer to sit inside, you are not out of romantic luck. First, the dim light inside & the wine encourage even the shyest lovebirds. But it’s also the intimacy of French bistros!
Because the interiors are so small, everything is easily cramped. You want to avoid getting too close to the strangers at the next table, so you basically have to get close together. How convenient!
#10 The Temple of the Sybille
If you are searching for a good spot for a romantic stroll, head to the east of Paris to the Parc Butte -Chaumont. It’s one of the most beautiful parks in Paris, and has an incredible view over the city from the top of the hill.
In the park, you will also find a Roman-style temple, called the Temple of the Sibylle. It was designed to be an exact replica of a temple in Tivoli and was a popular spot for young couples to meet in the 18th century.
It’s one of the most beautiful places in Paris that is not well known by tourists, but very popular among locals.
#11 Paris is in Music
This one is maybe less obvious because not many famous singers are singing about Paris. But this is only half of the truth. Think of Lady Gaga in A Star is Born. Quite early in the film, she sings “La vie en rose”, originally from Edith Piaf. Ella Fitzgerald has even a couple of songs about Paris, and Beyonce and Jay-Z shot a movie clip in the Louvre.
Maybe you even know the French love song from Carla Bruni “Quelqu’un m’a dit“! Or “Les Champs-Elysées” from Joe Dassin.
#12 Paris has the Moulin Rouge
And the Moulin Rouge is not all, there is a whole red-light district around it. It’s called the Quartier Pigalle, and it’s located close to the Sacré Coeur, on the foot of the Montmartre hill. While the Moulin Rouge Cabaret is a bit touristy, you can still find many seedy bars and sex shops in this area.
Did you know that during the World Fairs, Paris was known to be the Brothel of Europe? During the time, sex tourism was a big business and there were basically only two kinds of women: wives and prostitutes. The first was for chores, the latter for pleasure.
#13 Paris is incredibly Beautiful
And finally, Paris is just so utterly and completely beautiful. The golden lights on the Haussmann buildings in the sun, the charming little streets, and of course all the mythical spots like Notre Dame Cathedral or the Sacré-Coeur.
You will find beauty around every corner, and it’s easy to get lost in daydreaming while strolling along the Seine. It’s just a perfect setting to enfold a love story or to revive your love with your significant other.
Does Paris City of Love live up to the Hype? Is Paris the City of Love?
After knowing the 13 reasons why Paris is the city of love, what do you think? Is Paris overhyped? Is the city of love just a commercial gimmick to bring in tourists?
I don’t think so. While it’s true that some places are more touristic than others, there is something special about Paris that makes it unique. Maybe it’s because love is in the air – literally! – or maybe it’s because of the history and the many stories that have been told about this city.
Paris is the City of Love and there are many reasons why. What we know for sure is that it’s earned its title rightfully.
The history, the landmarks, the food, the people… It’s all there to make your heart flutter. And if you are single, don’t worry. Paris will also work its magic on you, and perhaps you’ll find love in the city of love!
PS: Check out these posts, they will help you plan your trip to Paris
FAQ Paris City of Love?
Why is Paris called the city of Love?
There are many reasons why Paris is called the City of Love. Some say it’s because of the romantic atmosphere, the beautiful streets, or the landmarks like the Eiffel Tower. Others believe it’s because of the French language or the food. Whatever the reason, there is no doubt that Paris is a very romantic city.
What are some good spots for a romantic stroll in Paris?
Some good spots for a romantic stroll in Paris include the Parc Butte-Chaumont, the Pont des Arts, and the Wall de Je t’Aimes. You can also find many beautiful streets and parks throughout the city.
What city is called the City of Love?
Paris is often called the City of Love. This is because of the romantic atmosphere, the beautiful streets, and the many landmarks like the Eiffel Tower. The French language is also considered to be very romantic.
Is Paris the City of Love or Lights?
Both Paris and Lyon are referred to as the City of Light. However, Paris is more commonly known as the City of Love. This is because of the romantic atmosphere and the many landmarks like the Eiffel Tower.
How do you say “Paris, the City of Love” in French?
Paris, ville de l’amour.
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