Romantic couple in France

Most Romantic Christmas Destinations in France For Couples

When it comes to romantic getaways, France remains unmatched with its blend of historic charm, exquisite cuisine, and idyllic landscapes. But when the magic of Christmas lights up the country, where should couples head for the most enchanting experience?  Travel experts at Seine River Cruises analyzed data from TripAdvisor and Google Keyword Planner to identify the top romantic Christmas getaway destinations in France.   

  • Bordeaux tops the list as the most romantic French getaway destination for couples – the perfect vacation spot for this Christmas
  • The study reveals France’s top destinations for couples based on reviews, Google searches, and luxury experiences 
  • Paris ranks second, but tops the list for attracting the most Google searches among the romantic destinations

In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the top romantic destinations in France for couples this Christmas. From the bustling streets of Paris to the tranquil lanes of Aix-en-Provence, discover where to stay, where to dine, and the unique charm each city offers.

Top Romantic Christmas Getaway Destinations in France

Gilles Messian from Paris, France, CC BY 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Discovering Bordeaux’s Romantic Side

Nestled in southwestern France, Bordeaux is mostly famed for its wines. Yet, it tops our list as the most romantic getaway destination in France. With 40.62 Google searches per 100,000 people each month, it’s a popular choice for couples seeking a cozy retreat. Situated just five kilometers from the nearest airport, Bordeaux is easily accessible, making it convenient for a quick escape.

Bordeaux, France, transforms into a romantic wonderland during Christmas time, offering couples an enchanting getaway. The city’s charming streets come alive with twinkling lights and festive decorations, creating a magical ambiance perfect for a romantic stroll. Couples can explore the Bordeaux Christmas Market, where they can sample local delicacies and warm up with a glass of mulled wine. The city’s renowned wineries provide cozy tours and tastings, offering an intimate escape into the world of Bordeaux’s celebrated wines. With its blend of historical architecture, vibrant culture, and festive spirit, Bordeaux becomes a perfect backdrop for couples seeking a memorable Christmas holiday.

Although Bordeaux isn’t coastal, it makes up for it with its vast offerings. The city boasts 42 attractions designed for couples, ranging from vineyard tours to art museums. When it comes to accommodation, there are 46 luxury or romantic hotels that frequently receive glowing reviews with keywords like ‘romantic’ and ‘intimate’. Dining in Bordeaux is a treat with 98 Michelin-starred or romantic restaurants per 100,000 people, ensuring a magical culinary experience for every couple.

Explore Tours in Bordeaux

woman and man walking in park in front of eiffel tower
Photo by Dimitri Kuliuk on Pexels.com

Enchanting Paris for Lovers

Paris, the iconic City of Love, naturally ranks second on our list. This vibrant city captures the hearts of couples worldwide, recording 120.02 Google searches per 100,000 people monthly. Its central location, just one kilometer from a major airport, makes it one of the easiest cities to explore upon arrival.

During the Christmas season, Paris offers couples an enchanting backdrop for romance. The city is adorned with twinkling lights illuminating the charming cobblestone streets and iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, creating a magical ambiance that sparks love. Couples can stroll hand-in-hand through festive Christmas markets and savor seasonal treats. The city’s renowned cafes and patisseries offer cozy spots to share intimate moments over delectable pastries. Additionally, a winter boat cruise on the Seine River provides a unique perspective of Paris’s illuminated bridges and monuments, making it a memorable holiday destination for couples seeking to rekindle or celebrate their love.

While Paris lacks natural beaches, its appeal lies in its unparalleled cultural offerings. From the Eiffel Tower to the cobbled streets of Montmartre, there’s romance around every corner. The city provides 28 tourist attractions per 100,000 people, alongside 33 luxury hotels known for their charm. For a dining experience like no other, choose from 93 Michelin-starred or romantic restaurants, where intimate tables await.

Explore Tours in Paris

Georges Seguin (Okki), CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Aix-en-Provence’s Hidden Romantic Appeal

Third on our list, Aix-en-Provence is a hidden gem that remains largely undiscovered by newlyweds despite its rich romantic offerings. Surprisingly, it garners no monthly Google searches, signaling its status as a well-kept secret. The city’s nearest airport is a mere 15 kilometers away, and its inland location adds a unique charm.

During Christmas, the city’s charming streets are adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations, creating an idyllic winter wonderland. Couples can experience lively Christmas markets, and discover unique artisanal gifts. The city’s rich history and stunning architecture provide the perfect backdrop for cozy evenings spent in quaint cafés, sipping hot chocolate, or enjoying a glass of local wine.

Aix-en-Provence is a haven for couples who enjoy quieter settings. With 31 attractions, including art galleries and historical sites, it offers a cultural feast. Accommodation is equally impressive with 53 luxury or romantic hotels, and dining options are abundant with 77 Michelin-starred or romantic restaurants per 100,000 people. This destination truly deserves more attention from couples looking for understated elegance.

Explore Tours in Aix-en-Provence

Sergey Ashmarin, CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Coastal Romance in Nice

Situated on the beautiful Mediterranean coast, Nice ranks fourth as a favored romantic destination. The city enjoys 59.06 monthly Google searches per 100,000 people, highlighting its popularity among couples. Its proximity to the airport, a mere two kilometers away, makes it easy to reach.

Nice, France, is an idyllic destination for couples seeking a romantic escape during Christmas, offering a unique blend of Mediterranean charm and festive cheer. The city’s Promenade des Anglais, adorned with twinkling lights, sets a picturesque scene perfect for evening strolls hand-in-hand. Couples can explore the enchanting Christmas markets, where the aromas of winter food and beverages fill the air, and pick out handmade gifts as unique as their love. The mild winter climate allows for cozy outdoor dining experiences along the Côte d’Azur, with a backdrop of stunning sea views.

Nice’s coastal charm is irresistible, allowing couples to relax on sandy beaches or take scenic strolls along the Promenade des Anglais. The city features 35 attractions, including historical landmarks and art museums. With 21 luxury or romantic hotels and 73 Michelin-starred or romantic restaurants per 100,000 people, it promises an idyllic retreat for lovebirds.

Explore Tours in Nice

Montpellier’s Seaside Serenity

Rounding out our top five is Montpellier, a southern French city that boasts a perfect blend of seaside allure and cultural richness. Despite registering only 1.34 Google searches per 100,000 people, it remains a fantastic destination for romance. Its closeness to the Mediterranean Sea ensures beautiful beach vistas, and the airport is just three kilometers away.

During December, the city’s enchanting holiday atmosphere is heightened by its stunning architecture and charming squares, all adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations. Couples can enjoy leisurely strolls through the historic Old Town, and explore the vibrant Christmas markets, offering a perfect opportunity to pick up unique gifts and indulge in seasonal treats. The city’s rich cultural scene, including holiday concerts and art exhibits, provides ample opportunities for romantic outings. Additionally, the nearby picturesque countryside and Mediterranean coastline offer a serene escape for a cozy winter retreat.

Montpellier offers couples 13 tourist attractions, including botanical gardens and charming town squares. For accommodation, there are 17 luxury or romantic hotels, each offering a unique ambiance for a romantic escape. Dining is a delight with 60 Michelin-starred or romantic restaurants per 100,000 people, allowing couples to enjoy secluded dinners and savor exquisite French cuisine.

Explore Tours in Montpellier

Expert Insight on Romantic Getaways

Magdalena Petrusic, a travel expert from Seine River Cruises, shares her thoughts on these findings. “When most people think of a romantic getaway destination in France, Paris, the ‘City of Love,’ is usually the first city that comes to mind,” she explains. “However, research shows that lesser-known cities like Bordeaux and Aix-en-Provence are just as perfect, if not better, for a romantic escape.

These cities have many luxury hotels and restaurants where couples can unwind and enjoy their vacation in a more peaceful environment. With fewer tourists, couples can truly soak in the atmosphere and explore the local attractions without long lines, and their photos will also be free from strangers in the background.”

Data Chart – Most Romantic French Holiday Destinations

The most romantic French holiday destinations  

Most Romantic French Holiday Destinations data chart

  

Conclusion – Romantic Christmas Destinations in France For Couples

Whether it’s the bustling romance of Paris or the charming allure of Aix-en-Provence, France offers a multitude of options for couples this Christmas. Each city provides its own unique blend of attractions, accommodations, and dining experiences that cater to romantic tastes. By choosing any of these destinations, couples are guaranteed an unforgettable holiday full of love and enchantment.

Commenting on the results, Magdalena Petrusic, travel expert from Seine River Cruises, said: 

“When most people think of a romantic getaway destination in France, Paris, the ‘City of Love,’ is usually the first city that comes to mind.  However, research shows that lesser-known cities like Bordeaux and Aix-en-Provence are just as perfect, if not better, for a romantic escape. These cities have many luxury hotels and restaurants where couples can unwind and enjoy their vacation in a more peaceful environment.” 

Now is the time to start planning your magical French escape. Explore the serene landscapes of Bordeaux, the cultural wonders of Paris, the hidden charm of Aix-en-Provence, the vibrant coast of Nice, or the seaside serenity of Montpellier. Each offers a romantic experience tailored to create memories that will last a lifetime. If you’re ready for your romantic adventure, start packing your bags and prepare for a holiday immersed in the love and magic that only France can provide.

For further resources or to begin planning your trip, consider reaching out to travel experts who can provide personalized recommendations for your romantic getaway.

Thanks for reading this article on the Most Romantic Christmas Destinations in France For Couples. We hope to see you at the places where we go.

Julie & Art

#travelnews

Fuel your wanderlust with weekly travel updates – It’s 100% FREE!