Top 10 Romantic Paris Strolls

As any native Parisian will agree, there are some cities you have to walk to really know them. From the tucked away trails of the Palais Royal, to the cobblestone streets of Ile Saint Louis, few cities in the world are better suited for a hand-in-hand stroll than romantic Paris, France.

All year round, little cafes and boutiques will tempt you in, and the French architecture of famous and tucked away buildings alike will leave you awe-inspired.

1. Jardin du Luxembourg

The Jardin Luxembourg, adjacent to Luxembourg Palace, is the perfect setting for an afternoon stroll or picnic lunch. Highlights of the extensive gardens include the Fountain of the Observatory, the Medici Fountain, and the first model of the Statue of Liberty.

2. Cathedrale Notre Dame

Walk to the top of Cathedrale Notre Dame for panoramic views of the romantic Paris sites below, and an up-close look at the gothic gargoyles.

Take your time on the way up, exploring the building's inner halls which feature the paintings of Antoine Nicolas, and the Notre Dame de Paris sculpture.

3. Ile Saint Louis

Ile Saint Louis is an island in the river Seine in the neighborhood surrounding Notre Dame. The area is an excellent place for walking with a loved one. The many riverside paths, and kooky neighborhood highlights include the Franc Pinot cabaret, Berthillon ice cream, and the Pont Saint-Louis street performers.

4. Ile de la Cite

Once home to the ancient Parisii tribe, Ile de la Cite is considered the epicenter of Paris. Comprised of several small parks, bridges, notable monuments and market squares, the labyrinth of romantic strolls in the Ile de la Cite is truly limitless.

5. Avenue des Champs-Elysees

Merely a short walk from Le 123 Elysees Hotel, one of Paris's most romantic hotels, is the Avenue des Champs Elysees.

Beautifully lined with clipped horse-chestnut trees, and featuring several shops, theaters, and sidewalk cafes, Champs Elysees is particularly ideal for nighttime strolls.

6. Jardin du Palais Royal

Hidden from the street by impressive stone walls on either side, the gardens at the Palais Royal offer couples a degree of quiet and solitude difficult to find in the city's heart. The gardens many benches and central fountain serve as resting places for weary feet, while the Palais arcades provide several shopping and dining options.

7. Canal St. Martin

The Canal St. Martin is one of Paris's little known secrets. Stroll the tree-lined, cobblestone walkway to one of the canal's many bridges, or to the Parc de la Villette, where you can board the canal cruise ship.

8. Parc Monceau

Purchased in 1769 by the Duke of Chartes and later owned by Napoleon III, Parc Monceau is one of the most frequented parks in Paris. Boasting an arresting array of statues, floral gardens, and open meadows, Parc Monceau is ideal for a morning run, picnic lunch, or evening stroll.

9. Louvre Museum

Looking for a walk, but don't want to brave a summer thunderstorm? Comprised of 300,000 works of art, over several miles of marble tile, a visit to the Louvre could be just what you're looking for.

10. Banks of the Seine

No romantic Paris trip is complete without a leisurely stroll up the banks of the Seine. After taking in the breathtaking waterfront view, end your walk at the romantic Hotel Britannique, in Paris's first arrondissement.

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