Unlike in some countries where everyone gets in on this lovey-dovey holiday from the earliest age, in France, Valentine’s Day is reserved for adults in love. Kids don’t exchange cards and the French wouldn’t dream of offering anything to their friends for this fête.
Although much less of a commercial holiday than in say, the United States, you’ll still see plenty of pink and red shop windows around Paris, gently reminding passersby that La Saint-Valentin is fast approaching. The pretty displays don’t start popping up until the beginning of February, not right after Christmas. The French know how to space out their holidays.
Like in other countries and cultures, French couples gift one another with chocolates, flowers, jewelry, or romantic evenings. In addition to picking up a present at a chocolatier or a fleuriste, Parisians have even more options for celebrating this sweet holiday.
Some Paris museums, monuments, and parks host special events and many restaurants offer a Valentine’s Day menu. For those that are looking to enjoy a sexy soirée, Paris has plenty of cabarets that put on special shows to mark the occasion.
If you’re in town this Valentine’s Day and aren’t sure what to do, click here for 5 Ideas of Romantic Things to Do in Paris or browse our selection of the most romantic places in Paris.
Looking for the perfect Paris-inspired Valentine’s Day gift for your favorite francophile? They’re sure to love this hand-painted I Heart Paris handbag by local designer Kasia Dietz.
Shop it and more Parisian presents in the Urbansider Boutique.
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Origins of Paris Historical TourEnjoy a small-group historical walking tour in the streets of the Montagne Sainte Genevieve down to the river. -
Pastry Tour of Le MaraisLe Marais is arguably the hippest neighborhood in Paris. While some may say that there are too many fashionistas, bobos, and tourists in the area, the charming cobblestone streets and vibrant atmosphere just can’t be beat. But Le Marais isn’t just about appearances. Local guides Nikki and Frederi…
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Discover the Goutte d’OrDiscover a side of Paris that most tourists never see. Frederic of TheWaysBeyond takes you on a walking tour you of his old neighborhood, La Goutte d’Or, one of Paris’s most authentic multi-cultural melting pots. Here, Parisians of dozens of different nationalities come together to share their tr…
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Explore the Bastille NeighborhoodFollow Frederic and Nikki of TheWaysBeyond down the small streets of the Quinze-Vingts, an often-overlooked part of the Bastille neighborhood that’s as interesting as its oddly arithmetic name — quinze-vingts translates to fifteen twenties, or 15 x 20.
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French Caviar TastingThe caviar you are about to discover is produced in the Dordogne region to the rhythms of the seasons and the life of sturgeons. This product of excellence, based on the valorization of a unique land and on innovative production techniques, is the reflection of impeccable standards. Research inno…
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Walk Through History in Le MaraisFollow local guides Frederic and Nikki of TheWaysBeyond through the city squares and alleyways of Le Marais as you retrace the history of this iconic Parisian neighborhood. If many today consider Le Marais a must-see on any trip to Paris, it wasn’t always that way. In fact, in the early 20th cent…
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Discover a Greener Side of ParisLet locals Frederic and Nikki of TheWaysBeyond guide you through the small streets off the Canal Saint-Martin and introduce you to some of the most exciting actors and addresses on Paris’s eco-conscious scene. The Canal Saint Martin neighborhood has always attracted an eclectic crowd, …
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Stroll Through 19th-Century ParisStep back in time and into the Paris of the 19th century. Learn how the architecture, innovations, and politics of the time shaped the city as you walk its charming streets, explore its covered passages, and shop in one of the world’s first department stores — just as Parisians did then! A…
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See the Sights Along the SeineSpend a leisurely morning like a true Parisian! Your local guide Sophie will meet you for a sightseeing stroll along the Seine, telling you tales of Paris past as you make your way east to explore a historic area before ending at a popular fresh food market just in time for lunch!
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Wine & Cheese PairingThis experience is an excellent opportunity for people who want to have a light introduction to French wines and discover how to pair them perfectly with French cheeses. You’ll get all the basic information you need to know about wine in France, including proper terminology, proper wine ta…
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