Paris in February: 5 Romantic Indoor Date Ideas
Bonjour Friends!!
Welcome to Paris! As a photographer with a passion for immortalizing moments of pure connection, I've had the privilege of witnessing countless love stories unfold against the backdrop of this mesmerizing city.
It’s February, which means the weather is not always ideal for spending the day sightseeing or wandering the streets. Fortunately, we’re through the deepest part of winter and soon we'll see the magic of French spring unfold, but for now the cold air is still calling for cozy indoor vibes. The good news is that love thrives just as well indoors as it does outdoors and you're in the perfect place for a romantic getaway in the winter months. We want to help you maximize every possible moment in one of the best places on earth, so you leave feeling like you've had the most romantic time possible in Paris.
So today, I invite you to join me in exploring 5 unique indoor date ideas that will ignite the flames of passion and creativity in the heart of Paris.
1. A Cozy Picnic in a Parisian Apartment:
We don't have to spend the whole winter dreaming of sunny days and spending hours in a beautiful park! If you have a more slow-paced day on your visit, try transforming your Parisian apartment into a scene of French culture and romance. Set up a cozy picnic with a gourmet spread of French delicacies, from artisanal cheeses to freshly baked baguettes, paired with a bottle of wine from a local vineyard. Enjoy the French tradition of slowing down while savoring a meal. Create the perfect setting to let the conversation flow freely and romanticize being inside on a cold February day.
If you’re looking for some indoor markets to find delicious, high-quality ingredients for your picnic, check out these places:
Marché des Enfants Rouges: Tucked away in the Marais district, Marché des Enfants Rouges is Paris's oldest covered market, dating back to the 17th century. This charming market offers a diverse array of food stalls selling everything from fresh produce and gourmet cheeses to international cuisine and homemade desserts. Visitors can enjoy a warm and cozy atmosphere while sampling delicious dishes from around the world.
If it's your first time, this is a great place to have a unique experience full of culture and tasty treats. I love that you can go in here and basically get everything you need in one place. Otherwise this area of town is amazing for mom and pops shops like butchers, cheese mongers, and bakeries. Why not add in a little romantic stroll for some extra quality time? It's still the time of year for hot chocolate (thank you Paris weather!).
You can check out their website HERE.
2. La Grande Epicerie at Le Bon Marché
This one-of-a-kind spot is actually a gourmet grocery store inside of a huge food hall. You can find anything you might desire at Le Bon Marché's wine cellars, delis, pastry shops, restaurants, and grocers. La Grande Epicerie has both sweet and savory selections that are practically unlimited, as well as a gift selection, in case you need to bring home some souvenirs for friends and family. You cannot go wrong buying gifts here, they are high quality and often traditional, unlike a lot of other places geared specifically towards tourists. One thing that I love is their french butter selection, it is OFF THE CHARTS. This is absolutely where you’ll get the biggest french butter selection in one place in Paris. AND THEY WILL VACUUM SEAL IT FOR YOU!! Same with cheese! Which means all you have to do is put it in the freezer or fridge and then into your suitcase to bring french butter home with you if you’re traveling.
You can check out their website HERE.
3. Marché Saint Germain
The Saint Germain market is nestled in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Près, which is in the Odéon district (RIGHT by our studio!). The indoor market open year round houses lots of main European brands as well as a delicatassen called Epic where you can certainly stock up on goodies. If you're looking for something specific or you just enjoy window shopping, this market has plenty of boutiques and restaurants to keep you busy for a while. If you have some time to kill before or after a photo shoot, drop by the Marché Saint Germain and see what you find!
You can check out their website HERE.
2. Artistic Exploration at a Private Gallery:
Unleash your inner art enthusiasts by enjoying a private tour of one of Paris's hidden gem galleries. Going to a wonderful museums can be a popular activity, but to be honest, Paris has many contemporary exhibitions that are worth discovering too! Explore the works of emerging artists or marvel at masterpieces from centuries past, all while enjoying the intimacy of a personalized tour (many of which are offered in different languages). We're convinced that a romantic rendezvous at an art gallery will inspire new depths of connection between you and your partner. There's just something so fun and classy about perusing a private gallery and then talking about the interesting pieces you saw. This is such a good way to get out of the cold and exploring a gallery can easily be paired with sipping a coffee at a nearby café and finding some tasty pastries to snack on.
Here are a few lesser-known galleries that offer unique date ideas for culture trips:
Galerie Daniel Templon, Saint-Germain-des-Prés: Founded in 1966, Galerie Daniel Templon has been a pioneer in promoting contemporary art in Paris. While it's not as hidden as some other galleries, it continues to showcase cutting-edge works by established and emerging artists.
You can check out their website HERE.
Galerie Thaddaeus Ropac, Marais: One of multiple branches of Thaddaeus Ropac's gallery, this space in the Marais district focuses on presenting exhibitions that explore the intersection of art and technology. It often features innovative installations and multimedia works that challenge perceptions and provoke thought.
You can check out their website HERE.
3. Culinary Adventure with a Cooking Class:
If there's something we've grown to love after all this time living in Paris, it's the cuisine. It just can't be beat.
Elevate your date night experience with a romantic evening in a hands-on cooking or baking class led by a seasoned Parisian chef. Learn the art of crafting delectable French dishes as you chop, sauté, and simmer your way to culinary mastery. From classic coq au vin to delicate macarons, tantalize your taste buds with the flavors of France, and savor the satisfaction of creating a gourmet meal together. Some cooking ateliers offer special events which could give you even more special date ideas.
Here are some baking options that offer both an experience and good food:
La Cuisine Paris: La Cuisine is a French cooking school that offers engaging Croissant, Macaron, and other technical skills classes. If you're like us, and you dream of mouthwatering croissants and macarons on a daily basis, choosing one of these classes would be the perfect way to learn how to imitate these delights in your own kitchen! They also offer traditional French cheese workshops and food tours in Paris, if you'd rather just relax and partake than cook yourself! You can choose between private and group classes, depending on your preferred environment.
You can check out their website for a sneak-peak of their gorgeous dessert offerings and to reserve a cooking class: Click HERE.
Molly Wilkenson: If you're interested in spending a day outside of Paris, you should certainly look into Molly Wilkenson's cooking school in Versailles. There is seriously no place more picturesque to learn how to make French pastry than in Molly's baking studio. If you've been wanting to visit Versailles and see what all the fuss is about, then why not hit two birds with one stone? She offers private classes for beginner French pastry where you can learn how to make all the best traditional pastries, or online group classes if you want to do it in your own home!
You can check out their website HERE.
Bon appétit!
4. Whimsical Escapade at a Secret Speakeasy:
For an original idea for a romantic date, step back in time to the era of prohibition and indulge in a clandestine rendezvous at a hidden speakeasy. Tucked away behind unassuming façades on cobbled streets, these intimate venues offer an air of mystery and intrigue that is sure to ignite the spark of adventure. Have a magical evening sipping on expertly crafted cocktails away from the city lights, and lose yourselves in the enchanting atmosphere of Paris's best-kept secret. Pop into a speakeasy after a romantic dinner. This has to be one of the best ways to experience Paris during the off-season.
Little Red Door: Situated in the heart of the Marais, Little Red Door is a chic speakeasy known for its innovative cocktails and sleek interior design. The bar features a rotating menu of seasonal creations inspired by art, literature, and travel, making it a favorite destination for cocktail enthusiasts.
You can check out their website HERE.
Le Syndicat: Located in the lively Oberkampf neighborhood, Le Syndicat is a unique speakeasy that celebrates French spirits and craftsmanship. The bar's menu showcases a curated selection of cocktails made with locally sourced ingredients, highlighting the diversity and quality of France's distilling heritage.
You can check out their website HERE.
Candelaria: This speakeasy in the marais located in a taco-bar through their kitchen is very cute and fun. I absolutely LOVE their chips and guac, and the Green Hornet (La Guepe Verte) drink is soooooo good.
You can check out their website HERE.
Abricot: This new cocktail bar in the 10th arrondissement (opened in 2023) has already made quite an appearance in the Paris bar scene and we're so excited about it. It was actually started by two American women who joined forces in Paris, and they do not mess around with their cocktails. So much thought goes into their mixology and the results are gorgeous drinks with striking flavor profiles and elegant garnishes. They also have non-alcoholic options that are no less fancy, including flavors like passionfruit, spices, persimmon, rosemary, and lemon. If you're hungry for a snack, they also offer vegan sweet and savory bites!
You can check out their website HERE.
Bar Nouveau: This notable cocktail bar is located in the 3rd arrondissement, and despite its small size, it really packs a punch! The concept design is Art Nouveau, which has drawn crowds of people from history lovers to cocktail enthusiasts alike. Their cocktail selection is nostalgic and nuanced, while the ambience feels like stepping back in time. The bar has two distinct floors which contrast one another in aesthetic and form a large part of the space's allure. Check out this spot for the unique cultural experience and the sophisticated drinks. You WILL gain cool points for going here.
You can check out their website HERE.
5. Serene Retreat at a Luxurious Spa:
Escape the hustle and bustle of city life with a pampering retreat at a luxurious Parisian spa. Treat yourselves to a couples massage or unwind in a private jacuzzi, surrounded by the soothing ambiance of soft music and fragrant essential oils. Let the stress melt away as you indulge in moments of pure relaxation, leaving you feeling rejuvenated from the good vibes and ready to embrace the romance that the city of lights has to offer. After all, self care is always a good idea. One of the most romantic things you can do is love yourself, right?!
Lutecia Spa: If you like the idea of a sanctuary of wellness hidden deep inside Paris, look no further than the Lutecia Spa. In this urban oasis, you can treat yourself to the private hammam, stunning pool, western and eastern traditional massage practices, spa facials, meditation, and the sauna. Prepare to be more relaxed than you've ever been! This place is incredible. They have several package options too, if you want a more comprehensive holistic experience. Would definitely recommend!
Check out their website HERE.
Les Jardins du Marais Spa: Nestled in the picturesque Marais district, Les Jardins du Marais Spa offers an affordable escape from the city's hustle and bustle. The spa's tranquil garden setting and range of treatments, including massages, facials, and hammam rituals, make it a romantic place for those seeking relaxation on a budget. Prices start at around €70 for a one-hour massage.
Check out their website HERE.
Love is a language spoken fluently in the French capital. So whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply reveling in the beauty of togetherness, let these creative indoor date ideas serve as a canvas for your own love story in the most romantic city.
May your hearts be as full as the Seine River!
Interested in booking a professional photography session with us during your stay in the city of love? Reserve your couples photo shoot and wall art HERE.