If there is one country in the world that is synonymous with romance, it is France. Lovers are drawn to the country for its sophisticated culture, dazzling landmarks, exquisite cuisine and picturesque countryside. It is the country to visit for lovers both young and old to feel like royalty. For those looking to enjoy the idyllic French romance tale, they will be spoiled for choice when it comes to beautiful locales. From busy and beautiful Paris to the vibrant and lively French Riviera, there are plenty of wonderful places in France to nourish that flame.
Paris
https://www.flickr.com/photos/96828128@N02/
Think romance, and most will immediately think of Paris. This classic city attracts millions of couples each year that wander the streets hand-in-hand and sneak a smooch in front of the Eiffel Tower. Paris is a city that is known for, if nothing else, its romantic ambiance. After days of French fashion, cuisine and culture most will retreat to the top of the Eiffel Tower to watch the sunset, but those who have enjoyed Paris on more than one occasion will find that this landmark is best taken in from afar. Instead visitors should try climbing the 284 steps of the Arc de Triomphe. This gives visitors stunning views of not just the Eiffel Tower, but a panoramic view of Paris in all its glory. This oft-ignored view of the city may just be the most romantic in all of France, so couples should best take advantage of it. It doesn't even have to be at sunset either; the views from the Arc de Triomphe are wonderful any time of day, with each having its unique advantages and ambiance.
Nice
https://www.flickr.com/photos/zzmeika/
Looking for a nice time out, a nice holiday destination, or perhaps even a nice place for a honeymoon? Well, the town of Nice in the French Riviera can provide a nice destination for whatever visitors have in mind. Although many covet the French Riviera for its quaint villages, Nice is the largest city among the area. However, visitors can truly get the best of a big and little Riviera town in the city. In Old Town, visitors will feel as though they've stepped into a small village with narrow winding streets, tiny shops and busy market squares while a step into the Mont Boron district allows for the most luxurious, almost Hollywood experience of France. While both old and modern Nice are, well, nice, the crown jewel of a romantic getaway in the city is a visit down to the Promenade des Anglais. This beachfront venue is the perfect place to wander and enjoy an ice cream down by the water in the beautiful warm Riviera sun.
St. Paul de Vence
https://www.flickr.com/photos/scratch_n_sniff/
For those that want the classic small town escape in France, this charming hilltop fortified village in Provence delivers. St. Paul de Vence is filled with small art galleries, boutiques and the most idyllic French sidewalk cafes. It will be a difficult task for visitors to find something ugly about this quaint little city as they tour their elegant streets lined with fountains, vine-covered stone walls and statues tucked into the city fortifications. From this small medieval village that is only home to 300, visitors can enjoy sweeping views over the French countryside with a view of the Alps to one side and the Mediterranean on the other. The most breath-taking views are presented from the tower at the Town Hall, this medieval keep dates back to the 13th century, but still remains the tallest building in St. Paul de Vence.
Mont St. Michel
https://www.flickr.com/photos/m0ietcesttout/
Fabulously remote at the end of a long causeway in the middle of the mud flats at low tide and the sea when it is high, Mont St. Michel is a monastery and ancient township that has captured the imaginations of those visiting France. The sight of the island itself is a romantic thing, but there is something so anciently beautiful about the old houses built one on top of another leading all the way up to the crowning jewel of the island, the atmospheric old abbey. Exploring the island requires climbing hundreds of old steps, but there are plenty of little spots to rest and look out over the dark, wild sea. Although it can become quite crowded during the summer months, out of season visits hold the same unique history and atmosphere with only half the crowds but still all the romance.
Colmar
https://www.flickr.com/photos/meiryperuchi/
Crisscrossed by beautiful canals fueled by turquoise waters, Colmar is what is referred to as the "Little Venice" of France. While the canals create a romantic illusion, the real attraction for couples in Colmar is the colour. Each year in the spring and summer, the city comes alive with the rich hues of the planted flowers. The flower-lined canals give the town a fairytale-like atmosphere that is perfect for both new and old love. Visitors can enjoy strolling the winding streets or tour the city by canoe. For the more laidback visitor, there are plenty of waterside cafes to relax in with a glass of wine and just take in this colourful, sweet-smelling city.