Account
Day trip
From: Dover
To: Calais
 
 
Day trip
 
Day trip
Romantic Breaks in France by the Coast

For couples who love the sea, France offers countless coastal destinations perfect for a romantic escape.

One of the most unique is Camargue in southern France. Around a 10-hour drive from Calais, it's well worth the journey, especially if you stop in cities such as Paris or Lyon along the way. Famous for its wild white horses, pink flamingos and unspoilt beaches, Camargue is one of the top romantic places in France for couples looking to experience nature together.

Nearby, Calanque National Park boasts dramatic limestone cliffs, turquoise waters and hidden coves that create the perfect setting for a peaceful afternoon. The secluded beaches make it ideal for couples looking to escape the crowds and enjoy one of the most romantic places to visit in France.

For a charming seaside atmosphere, head to La Rochelle. Its picturesque marina comes alive after sunset, with sparkling lights reflecting across the harbour. A perfect road trip destination in France for you to enjoy with your loved one. 

Enjoy an evening stroll along the promenade before dining at one of the waterfront restaurants serving freshly caught seafood.

Other romantic coastal destinations in France include:

  • Honfleur, with its colourful harbour and art galleries
  • Étretat, famous for its dramatic white cliffs
  • Saint-Malo, perfect for romantic walks along its historic walls
  • Cassis, known for its charming harbour and access to the Calanques
  • Antibes on the French Riviera, offering luxury hotels and beautiful beaches
Friends on deck of P&O ferry
Romantic City Breaks in France

France is home to some of Europe's most romantic cities, making it ideal for romantic city breaks in France.

Romantic Trip to Paris

No list would be complete without Paris. Wander hand in hand along the Seine, admire the Eiffel Tower, enjoy rooftop dining and explore charming neighbourhoods such as Montmartre. Whether it's your first visit or your tenth, Paris remains one of the world's ultimate destinations for couples.

Romantic Breaks in Bordeaux

Perfect for wine lovers, Bordeaux combines elegant architecture with exceptional restaurants and easy access to world-famous vineyards. Spend your days tasting local wines before enjoying dinner overlooking the Garonne River.

Romantic Getaways to Lyon

Often considered France's culinary capital, Lyon is perfect for couples who enjoy great food. Explore the city's historic streets before dining in one of its traditional bouchons or Michelin-starred restaurants.

Romantic Places to Visit in Strasbourg

With its canals, half-timbered houses, and famous Christmas market, Strasbourg is perfect for romantic weekend breaks in France throughout the year.

Romantic picnic in a park in Amsterdam
Romantic Places to explore in France

Just 90 minutes from Calais, the Bay of Somme is one of northern France's hidden gems and an excellent choice for romantic weekend breaks in France.

This stunning estuary is home to sand dunes, salt marshes and picturesque villages, making it ideal for scenic walks, cycling and wildlife spotting. Food lovers will also appreciate the region's reputation for fresh seafood, with cosy restaurants serving oysters, mussels and locally caught fish.

Whether you're visiting for a day trip or planning a longer stay, the Bay of Somme offers a peaceful escape that's perfect for couples.

Romantic Places to Stay in France

Finding the perfect accommodation can make your romantic trip to France even more memorable. France offers plenty of options for every style of getaway.

Stay in a Château

Experience life like royalty by staying in a beautifully restored château in the Loire Valley or Dordogne, surrounded by magnificent gardens and historic architecture.

Vineyard Hotels

Wake up among the vines in Burgundy, Bordeaux or Champagne, where many vineyards offer boutique accommodation alongside wine tastings and gourmet dining.

Boutique Coastal Hotels

Enjoy sea views and sunset dinners from boutique hotels in Nice, Antibes, La Rochelle or the French Riviera.

Spa Retreats

Relax together at luxury spa hotels in France including Provence, Annecy or the French Alps, complete with wellness treatments, thermal pools and fine dining. With so many options a wellness retreat in France is a perfect option. 

Countryside Escapes

For complete tranquillity, choose a charming cottage or boutique hotel in Normandy, Alsace or the rolling hills of Provence.

Couple in food court
Romantic Places to Eat in France

France is famous for its cuisine, making dining one of the highlights of any romantic getaway.

Some of the most romantic places to eat in France include:

  • Elegant rooftop restaurants overlooking Paris
  • Traditional bouchons in Lyon
  • Riverside wine bars in Bordeaux
  • Michelin-starred restaurants in Provence
  • Seafood restaurants overlooking La Rochelle's marina
  • Champagne houses serving tasting menus in Reims
  • Coastal restaurants along the French Riviera

Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying local cuisine together, France offers unforgettable dining experiences for every couple.

Romantic Activities in France

Looking for inspiration during your trip? These romantic activities in France are perfect for couples.

  • Cruise along the Seine in Paris
  • Visit lavender fields in Provence during summer
  • Enjoy champagne tastings in Reims
  • Explore fairytale castles in the Loire Valley
  • Take scenic drives through Burgundy's vineyards
  • Relax with a luxury spa day
  • Watch the sunset on the French Riviera
  • Picnic beside alpine lakes in Annecy
  • Ride horses through the Camargue marshlands
  • Visit charming Christmas markets during winter
Winter scene at Disneyland Paris
Winter Romantic Getaways in France

Winter is one of the most magical times to visit France.

Wrap up warm and explore some of Europe's most famous Christmas markets, including Strasbourg, Arras and Colmar. Browse festive stalls, sip hot chocolate or mulled wine, and enjoy seasonal entertainment together.

For couples looking for something more adventurous, head to the French Alps for skiing, cosy mountain lodges and relaxing spa hotels.

Winter is also the perfect time to enjoy champagne tastings in Reims or festive city breaks in Paris, where sparkling lights create an unforgettable atmosphere.

Summer Romantic Getaways in France

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy a romantic getaway in France, with long sunny days, picturesque vineyards, and beautiful coastal scenery creating the ideal setting for couples. 

Whether you're relaxing on the beaches of the French Riviera, wandering through the lavender fields of Provence, exploring charming harbour towns like La Rochelle, or enjoying wine tasting in Burgundy or Champagne, there are endless romantic activities to experience together. From romantic weekend breaks in France to longer couples' holidays, summer offers the perfect opportunity to discover some of the best romantic places to visit in France while making unforgettable memories.

Why France is Perfect for Couples?

Whether you're planning romantic trips to France for a weekend or a longer holiday, there's something to suit every couple.

From beautiful beaches and vineyard tours to historic cities, world-class restaurants and luxurious hotels, France offers endless opportunities to make lasting memories together.

Travelling by ferry also gives you the flexibility to bring your own car, explore at your own pace and pack everything you need without worrying about luggage restrictions.

Couple in Club Lounge
Plan Your Romantic Getaway in France

Whether you're dreaming of a luxury château stay, a romantic coastal escape, a city break in Paris or a wine-tasting adventure through Burgundy, travelling with P&O Ferries makes it easy to discover the very best of France for couples.

Book your ferry to Calais today and begin planning your romantic getaway in France. With flexible sailings, comfortable onboard facilities, and the freedom to explore by car, your next unforgettable adventure starts the moment you step onboard.

For an extra special start to your trip, upgrade to our Club Lounge and travel in comfort.

France has long been one of Europe's most romantic destinations, offering elegant city breaks, idyllic countryside escapes, world-famous wine regions and spectacular coastal scenery. 

Whether you're planning a luxury escape, a romantic short break in France or an unforgettable road trip, we've rounded up some of the best romantic places to visit in France, along with ideas for where to stay, where to eat and the most romantic activities to enjoy together.

Romantic Getaways to France FAQs

1 What are the best romantic places to visit in France?

Some of the best romantic places to visit in France include Paris, Provence, the French Riviera, the Loire Valley, Burgundy, the Bay of Somme, La Rochelle and Reims. Whether you're looking for beautiful beaches, vineyard escapes or historic cities, France offers unforgettable destinations for couples.

2 Where can couples go for a romantic weekend break in France?

For romantic weekend breaks in France, consider Paris for iconic landmarks and fine dining, Strasbourg for its charming canals, the Bay of Somme for a peaceful coastal escape, or Reims for champagne tasting. These destinations are easily explored over a long weekend and offer plenty of romantic experiences.

3 What are the best romantic activities in France?

Popular romantic activities in France include cruising along the Seine in Paris, wine tasting in Burgundy or Champagne, strolling through Provence's lavender fields, exploring the castles of the Loire Valley, relaxing at a luxury spa, or enjoying a sunset walk along the French Riviera.

4 Is France a good destination for couples?

Yes, France is one of Europe's most popular destinations for couples. With romantic cities, beautiful countryside, world-renowned food and wine, stunning beaches and luxury accommodation, it's the perfect choice for everything from romantic short breaks in France to longer holidays.

5 When is the best time to visit France for a romantic getaway?

France is a wonderful destination all year round. Visit in spring for blooming gardens and mild weather, summer for beaches and lavender fields, autumn for vineyard tours and wine harvests, or winter for festive Christmas markets, cosy city breaks and alpine escapes.