When considering a destination for a romantic weekend getaway, France is usually the first on the list. But, then, planning gets more complicated. Where exactly to go and what to do? After all, two days aren’t that much. Below are a few ideas that may help.

1. Rent a Luxury Car and Tour the Countryside

When you turn to luxury car hire, you get a vehicle that, let’s be honest, many of us should never drive in our everyday lives. For some, it’s an opportunity to make a dream come true for a while. Besides, beautiful settings such as Provence pair well with gorgeous cars such as Porsche. And because it’s just for a day or two, it can be pretty affordable.

If that sounds like something you two may enjoy, here are a few tips:

• Pick the car in Paris or Nice (there’s usually a wider selection in big cities).
• Plan a scenic route (it makes sense to take the route into account when choosing the car).
• Check rental policies very very carefully.

2. Stay in a Fairytale Chateau

The main argument in favor of this idea is that it’s incredibly romantic. Plus, there’s a lot to choose from since France is rich in chateaus. The Loire Valley castles and those in Normandy are the first to come to mind, of course. Ideally, you need a spot with

• a spa
• a pool
• and a gourmet restaurant on site.

3. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride Over the Loire Valley

Okay, that’s not very fresh but that does work. A hot air balloon ride over the Loire Valley is a breathtaking experience. You’ll see the vineyards, forests, castles, and everything else from an absolutely unique perspective. Of course, you need a private tour (after all, it’s supposed to be romantic, right?).

4. Discover the Wines of Bordeaux

This one is a special treat for wine lovers. There are, at least, two options here (both are good, by the way). The first is to book a private wine tour to famous vineyards. Here, you’ll taste what you’ve heard about many times. Or, you can head to lesser-known producers. Here, you’ll explore wines only locals know about.

5. Stroll Through the Lavender Fields of Provence

This idea is only relevant if you’re visiting France in late spring or summer. At least, it’s during these seasons that the lavender fields of Provence look mind-blowing. Many nearby villages have lavender-themed shops where you can purchase local

• lavender oils
• soaps
• artisanal products.

6. Dine by the Seine in Paris

Another classic option on the list. It can have pretty many formats, by the one. You can reserve a table at a riverside bistro or you can bring some snacks and sit by the river. Then, there’s also street food. The part that doesn’t change is that you’ll enjoy your meal with views of the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral. Many restaurants also offer candle-lit dinners on private riverboats (just in case you were thinking about how to make it even more romantic).

7. Go Glamping in the French Alps

You love to be outside but you likewise love comfort. If so, glamping in the French Alps seems to be just right. The comfort part is achieved with

• luxury tents with wood-burning stoves,
• comfortable bedding.

The nature is the French Alps which look incredibly romantic in and of themselves. If you aren’t in the mood for hiking, you can simply enjoy the views from your luxurious tent.

8. Explore the Art Scene in Montmartre

Montmartre is Paris’s famous district with a super vibrant atmosphere. Once here,

• stroll through the cobblestone streets
• visit art galleries
• sit down at a café for people-watching.

And, of course, it’s the best place on Earth to have a portrait painted.

9. Relax at a Spa in the Champagne Region

The Champagne region is synonymous with celebration. That’s why it certainly deserves to be considered as a destination for a romantic escape. Many luxury hotels and chateaux here offer spa services with treatments using Champagne-based products (these are just superb!). Sip on a glass of bubbly while enjoying a relaxing massage. Then, unwind in the countryside. That’s the classic of a “treat yourself” getaway.

10. Visit a Hidden Village in Alsace

Alsace has charming, picturesque villages, with timbered houses and cobblestone streets. It all looks like it’s out of a storybook. If that sounds like something you two may love, spend the weekend exploring

• Riquewihr
• Eguisheim
• Kaysersberg.

Each has wineries and beautiful scenery. Stroll through the markets, sample local delicacies, and pick up a bottle of Alsace wine. That’s what pure relaxation is.

11. Take a Cooking Class in Lyon

Finally, Lyon is by far the best location for a hands-on cooking experience. Book a cooking class for two and learn to make French classics (the coq au vin or delicate pastries, or both). You’ll be working side by side and then enjoying the meal you’ve prepared.

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Whatever idea you pick, remember to keep it balanced. Good planning is certainly useful but a bit of spontaneity should never hurt either. Keep it fun and enjoy yourself.