When the weather warms up and the sun is shining, there is nothing more romantic than a lovers' picnic in one of Paris' parks. Pack a blanket, a bottle of red wine, a crusty baguette, some stinky cheese, and maybe some chocolate for dessert, and you're all set. After your meal, clear the food and just stretch out in the sun with your sweetheart in your arms. However, be aware that not all Parisian parks allow you to sit on the grass. The best picnic parks are Parc des Buttes Chaumont, Parc de la Villette and the Champ de Mars, which has a fantastic view of the Eiffel Tower.
The viewing platform at the top of the Parc de Belleville, on rue Piat in Paris' 20th arrondissement, is the best spot in the city to watch the sunset with your sweetie. The park is perched atop a hill, where you can enjoy a magnificent view of all of Paris. Admire the interplay of colors lighting up the sky as the sun descends. Then have a drink across the street at La Mer à Boire, a local outdoor cafe.
Paris' other nickname is the "City of Light." At night, all of the city's monuments, like the Eiffel Tower, and bridges are illuminated. A very romantic way to see Paris at night is to take a dinner cruise on the Seine. Gaze into your lover's eyes over a candlelit dinner, then go out on deck for a magical view and a cool breeze blowing through your hair.
Another romantic way to experience Paris at night is on the back of a bike, ideally a motorbike. There is nothing more exciting than zooming along the banks of the Seine, pressed tight against your significant other. However, if renting a motorbike or scooter is impractical, then there is a cheap and easy alternative. The city now has a public bike system--the velib'--that lets you rent bikes for as little as one euro. Rent a pair of bikes and discover the beauty of Paris by night, when there are fewer cars. If you find a picturesque spot where you'd like to linger for a kiss, or more, just return the bikes to any station and continue on foot.
