This guide with the best Paris Elopement Ceremony Locations is here to help you find the perfect spot. We’ll explore some of the most stunning and unique locations in Paris, ensuring your elopement is as magical as you’ve always imagined.
Q: What are the most popular Paris elopement ceremony locations? (FAQ)
Dreaming of a romantic elopement in Paris? Here are some of the most popular and breathtaking Paris elopement ceremony locations the city has to offer:
● Eiffel Tower
● Musée du Louvre
● Golden Gate at Petit Palais
● Alexander III Bridge
● The Medici Fountain (Jardin du Luxembourg)
● Quartier de Montmartre
● Place Saint Sulpice
● Palais Royal
● Jardin des Tuileries
● Chapelle Expiatoire
For amazing pictures and lots of details, click here… (further in our aticle)
Q: What are some lesser-known yet stunning Paris elopement ceremony locations? (FAQ)
Looking for something a little more off the beaten path? Discover these hidden gems that make for truly unique Paris elopement ceremony locations:
● The American Church
● Hôtel de la Marine Courtyard
● Parc Monceau
● Jardin des Plantes
● Bibliothèque Mazarine Courtyard
● Hameau de la Reine (Versailles)
● Observatoire de Paris Garden
● Pont de Bir-Hakeim (Under the Arches)
● Domaine de Malmaison
Want to see pictures and discover why we love them so much? Click here… (further in our aticle)
Q: What are the best hotels and venues in that also serve as beautiful Paris elopement ceremony locations?
Combine your stay with your ceremony! These Parisian hotels and venues offer stunning settings for an unforgettable elopement:
Now that you’ve got a taste of the possibilities, let’s dive deeper into each of these gorgeous Paris elopement ceremony locations. Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions, helpful tips, and stunning visuals to help you choose the perfect backdrop for a unique Paris elopement.
The Most Popular Paris Elopement Ceremony Locations
In this section, we’ll explore some of the most sought-after Paris elopement ceremony locations, complete with stunning images and incredibly useful information to help you envision your dream Parisian wedding.
EIFFEL TOWER
The Eiffel Tower, an iconic symbol of Paris and romance, offers a variety of breathtaking locations for your elopement ceremony. From grand vistas to intimate settings, the choice is yours:
TROCADERO
The Trocadéro Gardens, with its stunning fountains and panoramic views of the Eiffel Tower, is a classic and highly sought-after location. The steps leading down to the gardens offer a dramatic and picturesque setting.
AVENUE CAMOENS
Avenue de Camoëns provides a beautifully intimate and iconic Parisian setting, complete with breathtaking Eiffel Tower views, classic architecture, and a romantic vibe, making it an ideal and easily accessible spot for a secluded and unforgettable elopement ceremony.
SEINE RIVER BANK
The banks of the Seine, particularly near the Eiffel Tower, provide a romantic and versatile backdrop. You can choose a spot along the water’s edge, or even consider a private boat tour for a truly unique ceremony.
BIR HAKEIM BRIDGE
This elegant bridge, with its art deco details and views of the Eiffel Tower, is a popular spot for photos and intimate ceremonies.
CHAMPS DE MARS
This large public park stretching from the Eiffel Tower to the École Militaire offers a more relaxed and spacious setting. You can find a secluded spot amongst the trees or near the fountains.
EIFFEL TOWER STREETS VIEW
For a more urban and chic feel, consider a ceremony with the Eiffel Tower as a backdrop from one of the surrounding streets: Rue de l’Université or Rue Saint-Dominique. These locations offer unique perspectives and a Parisian atmosphere, which is great for elopement photos. However, they might not be well suited for a calm ceremony.
TIPS & TRICKS FOR EIFFEL TOWER ELOPEMENT CEREMONIES
Pros:
● Iconic and instantly recognizable location.
● Stunning photo opportunities.
● Variety of settings to choose from.
● Romantic and unforgettable atmosphere.
Cons:
● Can be crowded, especially during peak season.
● Requires careful planning and permits may be needed.
● Weather can be unpredictable.
● May not offer as much privacy as other locations.
Best Time of Day:
● Sunrise: Offers soft, golden light and fewer crowds.
● Sunset: Creates a romantic and dramatic atmosphere.
● Weekday mornings: Generally less busy than weekends.
Best Season:
● Spring and Fall: Pleasant weather and fewer tourists.
● Summer: While beautiful, it can be very crowded, however ideal temperatures.
● Winter: Can be magical with potential for snow, but be prepared for colder temperatures.
If you’re looking for elopement vendors and you haven’t decided on a talented photographer yet, we would be delighted to capture your beautiful day in Paris.
The Louvre Museum, home to some of the world’s most iconic art, also offers a stunning and historically rich backdrop for an elopement ceremony. While ceremonies aren’t permitted inside the museum itself, the exterior courtyards provide a magnificent setting.
The Cour Napoléon, with its iconic glass pyramid, is a popular choice for photos and elopements. The surrounding architecture of the Louvre’s historic palace creates a grand and elegant atmosphere.
The Cour Carrée, another courtyard within the Louvre complex, offers a more intimate and secluded feel with its Renaissance architecture. You can also consider the surrounding gardens, like the Jardin du Carrousel, for beautiful greenery and views of the museum.
TIPS & TRICKS
Pros:
● Incredibly iconic and recognizable location.
● Grand and majestic architecture.
● Beautiful in all seasons.
● Photogenic from various angles.
Cons:
● Very crowded, especially during peak hours and seasons.
● Permits are required for formal ceremonies and professional photography (check with the Louvre and the Mairie).
● Limited privacy.
● Security presence can be noticeable.
Best Time of Day:
● Sunrise: Offers the best chance for fewer crowds and beautiful light.
● Early morning: Still relatively quiet before the museum fully opens.
● Late afternoon/early evening (outside of peak season): Can be magical light but crowds may still be present.
Best Season:
● Spring and Fall: Pleasant weather and fewer tourists.
● Summer: Beautiful, but expect large crowds.
● Winter: Can be magical with festive decorations, but be prepared for colder temperatures and potential rain or snow.
GOLDEN GATE (PETIT PALAIS)
The “Golden Gate,” referring to the ornate gate near the Petit Palais, offers a sophisticated and elegant backdrop for a Parisian elopement. While not a gate in the traditional sense, but rather an elaborate ironwork entrance, it’s become a popular spot for photos and intimate ceremonies.
The area around the Petit Palais, particularly the ornate gate on Avenue Winston Churchill, provides a beautiful setting. The gilded details and the grand architecture of the Petit Palais itself create a luxurious and romantic atmosphere.
The surrounding gardens and the nearby Seine River also offer additional photo opportunities. It’s a less crowded alternative to some of the more famous landmarks, while still possessing Parisian charm.
TIPS & TRICKS
Pros:
● Elegant and sophisticated backdrop.
● Less crowded than other iconic locations.
● Beautiful architectural details.
● Close proximity to the Seine River and other attractions.
Cons:
● Not as instantly recognizable as some other landmarks.
● Permits may be required for formal ceremonies (check with the Mairie).
● Can be busy during peak tourist seasons.
● Limited space for large groups.
Best Time of Day:
● Early morning: Offers softer light and fewer crowds.
● Late afternoon: Golden hour provides a warm and romantic ambiance.
● Weekdays: Generally less busy than weekends.
Best Season:
● Spring and Fall: Pleasant weather and fewer tourists.
● Summer: Beautiful, but expect more crowds.
● Winter: Can be charming with festive decorations, but be prepared for colder temperatures.
ALEXANDER III BRIDGE
The Alexander III Bridge, with its ornate sculptures, gilded details, and stunning views of the Eiffel Tower and the Seine River, is a popular and undeniably romantic location for a Paris elopement.
The bridge itself offers a variety of beautiful spots for a ceremony. The ornate lampposts, the gilded sculptures of winged horses, and the panoramic views all contribute to a grand and memorable setting.
The banks of the Seine River on either side of the bridge also provide lovely backdrops, especially for photos after the ceremony.
TIPS & TRICKS
Pros:
● Iconic and instantly recognizable location.
● Stunning views of the Eiffel Tower and the Seine.
● Beautiful architectural details.
● Romantic and elegant atmosphere.
Cons:
● Can be very crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons.
● Permits might be required for formal ceremonies (check with the Mairie).
● Limited privacy.
● Can be windy.
A perfect elopement ceremony spot on Alexander 3 bridge with Eiffel view
Best Time of Day:
● Sunrise: Offers soft, golden light and fewer crowds.
● Sunset: Creates a romantic and dramatic atmosphere.
● Weekdays: Generally less busy than weekends.
Best Season:
● Spring and Fall: Pleasant weather and fewer tourists.
● Summer: Beautiful, but expect large crowds.
● Winter: Can be magical with festive decorations, but be prepared for colder temperatures and potential rain or snow.
MEDICI FOUNTAIN (JARDIN DU LUXEMBOURG)
The Medici Fountain, nestled within the serene Jardin du Luxembourg, offers a romantic and picturesque setting for a Parisian elopement. Its elegant architecture and tranquil surroundings provide a beautiful backdrop for an intimate ceremony.
With its long reflecting pool, statues, and lush greenery, it creates a secluded and enchanting atmosphere. The surrounding Jardin du Luxembourg offers various other beautiful spots for photos, including manicured lawns, flowerbeds, and statues.
It’s a more intimate and less crowded option compared to some of the more famous Parisian landmarks.
TIPS & TRICKS
Pros:
● Romantic and picturesque setting.
● Relatively less crowded than other popular locations.
● Beautiful in all seasons.
● Offers a sense of privacy and intimacy.
Cons:
● Not as instantly recognizable as some other landmarks.
● Permits may be required for formal ceremonies (check with the Mairie and the Jardin du Luxembourg administration).
● Can be busy during peak hours and weekends.
● Limited space for large groups.
Best Time of Day:
● Early morning: Offers softer light and fewer crowds.
● Late afternoon: Golden hour provides a warm and romantic ambiance.
● Weekdays: Generally less busy than weekends.
Best Season:
● Spring and Fall: Pleasant weather and fewer tourists.
● Summer: Beautiful with blooming flowers, but expect more crowds.
● Winter: Can be charming with a dusting of snow, but be prepared for colder temperatures.
QUARTIER DE MONTMARTRE
Montmartre, the bohemian heart of Paris, offers a unique and charming atmosphere for an elopement ceremony. Its hilltop location, cobblestone streets, and artistic vibe create a romantic and unforgettable setting.
Within Montmartre, several locations are ideal for an elopement. The Sacré-Cœur Basilica, perched atop the hill, provides a stunning backdrop with panoramic views of Paris. The Place du Tertre, where artists display their work, offers a lively and colorful atmosphere.
Hidden squares and charming streets throughout the neighborhood provide more intimate and secluded options. Consider the Square Jehan-Rictus with its “I Love You” wall for a particularly romantic touch.
TIPS & TRICKS
Pros:
● Charming and bohemian atmosphere.
● Panoramic views of Paris.
● Variety of locations to choose from.
● Unique and memorable setting.
Cons:
● Can be very crowded, especially around Sacré-Cœur and Place du Tertre.
● Hilly terrain can be challenging for some.
● Permits might be required for formal ceremonies, particularly near the Basilica (check with the Mairie and the Sacré-Cœur administration).
● Limited parking.
Best Time of Day:
● Early morning: Offers fewer crowds and beautiful light.
● Late afternoon/early evening: Golden hour provides a romantic ambiance.
● Weekdays: Generally less busy than weekends.
Best Season:
● Spring and Fall: Pleasant weather and fewer tourists.
● Summer: Beautiful, but expect large crowds.
● Winter: Can be magical with festive decorations, but be prepared for colder temperatures and potentially slippery streets.
PLACE SAINT SULPICE
Place Saint-Sulpice, with its grand church and elegant fountain, offers a classic and sophisticated setting for a Parisian elopement. It’s a less crowded alternative to some of the more famous landmarks, while still possessing Parisian charm and beauty.
The focal point of the square is the impressive Église Saint-Sulpice, the second-largest church in Paris. The Fontaine des Quatre-Évèques, a beautiful fountain in the center of the square, adds to the charm.
The surrounding buildings, with their classic Parisian architecture, create a sophisticated and timeless atmosphere. The square itself offers ample space and various angles for photos.
TIPS & TRICKS
Pros:
● Elegant and sophisticated backdrop.
● Less crowded than many other popular locations.
● Beautiful architecture and fountain.
● Relatively quiet and peaceful atmosphere.
Cons:
● Not as instantly recognizable as some other landmarks.
● Permits may be required for formal ceremonies (check with the Mairie).
● Can be busy during market days or church services.
● Limited shade during the hottest part of the day.
Best Time of Day:
● Early morning: Offers softer light and fewer crowds.
● Late afternoon: Golden hour provides a warm and romantic ambiance.
● Weekdays: Generally less busy than weekends.
Best Season:
● Spring and Fall: Pleasant weather and fewer tourists.
● Summer: Beautiful, but expect more crowds and sun.
● Winter: Can be charming with festive decorations, but be prepared for colder temperatures.
PALAIS ROYAL
The Palais Royal, with its elegant gardens and historic architecture, offers a sophisticated and romantic setting for a Parisian elopement. It provides a beautiful blend of grandeur and intimacy, making it a popular choice for couples seeking a classic Parisian atmosphere.
The Palais Royal gardens, with their manicured lawns, fountains, and sculptures, provide a tranquil and picturesque backdrop for a ceremony. The colonnaded galleries surrounding the garden add a touch of architectural elegance.
The nearby courtyard, with its iconic Buren Columns, offers a more modern and artistic setting for photos. It’s a less crowded option than some of the most famous landmarks, while still offering a distinctly Parisian feel.
TIPS & TRICKS
Pros:
● Elegant and sophisticated atmosphere.
● Beautiful gardens and architecture.
● Relatively less crowded than other popular locations.
● Variety of photo opportunities.
Cons:
● Not as instantly recognizable as some other landmarks.
● Permits may be required for formal ceremonies (check with the Mairie and the Palais Royal administration).
● Can be busy during peak hours and weekends.
● Limited shade in some areas.
Best Time of Day:
● Early morning: Offers softer light and fewer crowds.
● Late afternoon: Golden hour provides a warm and romantic ambiance.
● Weekdays: Generally less busy than weekends.
Best Season:
● Spring and Fall: Pleasant weather and fewer tourists.
● Summer: Beautiful, but expect more crowds.
● Winter: Can be charming, but be prepared for colder temperatures and potentially fewer blooming flowers.
JARDIN DES TUILERIES
The Jardin des Tuileries, a beautiful formal garden located between the Louvre and the Place de la Concorde, offers a classic and romantic setting for a Parisian elopement. Its manicured lawns, fountains, and sculptures create a picturesque backdrop for an intimate ceremony.
The Tuileries Garden provides a variety of beautiful spots for an elopement. The numerous fountains, including the central basin, offer stunning focal points. The various statues scattered throughout the garden add a touch of artistry and elegance.
The tree-lined paths and flowerbeds create a romantic and serene atmosphere. Its central location makes it easily accessible and offers beautiful views of the Louvre and the Place de la Concorde.
TIPS & TRICKS
Pros:
● Beautiful and iconic Parisian garden.
● Variety of backdrops for photos.
● Central location and easy access.
● Romantic and elegant atmosphere.
Cons:
● Can be quite crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons.
● Permits may be required for formal ceremonies (check with the Mairie and the Jardin des Tuileries administration).
● Limited privacy.
● Can be very sunny during the day in summer.
Best Time of Day:
● Early morning: Offers softer light, fewer crowds, and a more peaceful atmosphere.
● Late afternoon/early evening: Golden hour creates a warm and romantic ambiance.
● Weekdays: Generally less busy than weekends.
Best Season:
● Spring and Fall: Pleasant weather and fewer tourists. The gardens are also particularly beautiful during these seasons.
● Summer: Beautiful with blooming flowers, but expect more crowds and sun.
● Winter: Can be charming, but be prepared for colder temperatures and potentially fewer blooming flowers.
THE AMERICAN CHURCH
The American Church in Paris offers a beautiful and welcoming space for couples seeking a religious or traditional ceremony in the heart of Paris. While not an “outdoor” location like many others on the list, it’s a popular choice for those desiring a church setting.
Located near the Eiffel Tower, it provides a classic and elegant church setting for weddings and elopements. Its beautiful architecture, stained glass windows, and serene atmosphere create a dignified and reverent ambiance. It’s a particularly popular choice for American couples getting married in Paris.
There are a couple additional options for a church ceremony: The American Cathedral in Paris and for Spanish speaking couples, the Iglesia Española de Paris. Photos from all three churches below.
TIPS & TRICKS
Pros:
● Beautiful and traditional church setting.
● Welcoming to couples of all faiths (though specific requirements may apply).
● Experienced in hosting weddings and elopements.
● Convenient location near the Eiffel Tower.
Cons:
● Indoor location, so not ideal for those specifically wanting an outdoor ceremony.
● May have specific requirements for ceremonies (e.g., pre-marital counseling, documentation).
● May not be suitable for non-religious or secular ceremonies.
● Availability may be limited, especially during peak season.
Best Time of Day: Ceremony times will likely be scheduled in coordination with the church. Generally, daylight hours are preferable for photography
Best Season: The church is available year-round. The best season for visiting Paris (and thus potentially combining the elopement with a honeymoon or other travel) would be spring or fall for pleasant weather. However, the church itself is climate-controlled. Be sure to inquire about availability for your desired date, regardless of the season
Lesser-known Yet Stunning Paris Elopement Ceremony Locations
If you’re seeking a unique and intimate setting, this section is for you. We’ll unveil some of Paris’s hidden gems, complete with inspiring images and practical details to help you plan a truly unforgettable elopement.
CHAPELLE EXPIATOIRE
The Chapelle Expiatoire is a memorial chapel built on the site where Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette were buried before being moved to the Basilica of Saint-Denis.
Its neoclassical architecture and tranquil gardens provide a peaceful and secluded environment for an elopement. It’s a lesser-known location, offering a sense of discovery and exclusivity.
TIPS & TRICKS
Pros:
● Unique and historically significant location.
● Tranquil and secluded atmosphere.
● Beautiful neoclassical architecture.
● Less crowded than other popular locations.
Cons:
● May not be suitable for large groups.
● Permits are absolutely required from the Centre des Monuments Nationaux (CMN) and the Mairie. This can be a complex process. It is essential to inquire about the possibility of holding a ceremony here well in advance.
● Photography restrictions may apply.
● Not as instantly recognizable as some other landmarks.
Best Time of Day:
● Early morning: Offers softer light and fewer visitors in the surrounding square.
● Late afternoon: Golden hour can create a beautiful ambiance.
● Check the opening hours of the Chapelle as they may vary.
Best Season:
● Spring and Fall: Pleasant weather and fewer tourists in Paris overall. The gardens surrounding the Chapelle are also particularly beautiful during these seasons.
● Summer: Can be beautiful, but expect more tourists in the surrounding area.
● Winter: Can be charming, but be prepared for colder temperatures. The gardens may be less vibrant.
HÔTEL DE LA MARINE COURTYARD
The Hôtel de la Marine, a magnificent 18th-century palace located on the Place de la Concorde, offers a stunning and sophisticated setting for a Parisian elopement. Its recently restored courtyard provides a grand and elegant backdrop for an intimate ceremony.
The inner courtyard of the Hôtel de la Marine, with its elegant architecture, colonnades, and central fountain, provides a luxurious and private atmosphere for an elopement. The grandeur of the palace creates a sense of occasion, while the enclosed courtyard offers a more intimate and secluded feel compared to some of the more open public spaces in Paris.
TIPS & TRICKS
Pros:
● Luxurious and sophisticated setting.
● Beautiful architecture and courtyard design.
● Relatively private and intimate space.
● Prestigious and historic location.
Cons:
● Permits are absolutely required and likely involve a significant fee. Contact the Hôtel de la Marine directly well in advance to discuss the possibility and requirements. The Mairie will also need to be contacted.
● May not be suitable for large groups.
● Photography restrictions may apply.
● Not as instantly recognizable as some of the most famous landmarks.
Best Time of Day:
● Early morning: Offers softer light and fewer visitors in the surrounding area.
● Late afternoon: Golden hour can create a beautiful ambiance in the courtyard.
● Check the opening hours of the Hôtel de la Marine as they may vary.
Best Season:
● Spring and Fall: Pleasant weather and fewer tourists in Paris overall.
● Summer: Can be beautiful, but expect more tourists in the surrounding area.
● Winter: Can be charming, but be prepared for colder temperatures. The courtyard may be less vibrant.
PARC MONCEAU
Parc Monceau, a charming and elegant park in the 8th arrondissement, offers a more relaxed and intimate setting for a Parisian elopement compared to some of the city’s more famous landmarks. Its blend of French formal gardens and English-style landscaping creates a picturesque and romantic atmosphere.
The park’s iconic colonnade, the small pond, the numerous statues, and the diverse trees and flowers provide a variety of backdrops for photos. The overall feel is less grand and more intimate than some of the central Parisian locations, offering a more personal and relaxed experience.
TIPS & TRICKS
Pros:
● Charming and romantic atmosphere.
● Less crowded than many other popular locations.
● Variety of picturesque backdrops.
● Relatively peaceful and secluded feel.
Cons:
● Not as instantly recognizable as some of the most famous landmarks.
● Permits may be required for formal ceremonies (check with the Mairie and the Parc Monceau administration).
● Can be busy during weekends and sunny days.
● Limited indoor options in case of inclement weather.
Best Time of Day:
● Early morning: Offers softer light and fewer crowds.
● Late afternoon/early evening: Golden hour provides a warm and romantic ambiance.
● Weekdays: Generally less busy than weekends.
Best Season:
● Spring and Fall: Pleasant weather and fewer tourists. The park is also particularly beautiful during these seasons with blooming flowers or colorful foliage.
● Summer: Beautiful with lush greenery, but expect more crowds.
● Winter: Can be charming, but be prepared for colder temperatures and potentially less vibrant scenery.
JARDIN DES PLANTES
The Jardin des Plantes, Paris’s botanical garden, offers a unique and enchanting setting for a Parisian elopement. Its diverse collection of plants, flowers, and greenhouses creates a beautiful and romantic atmosphere for an intimate ceremony.
The rose garden, the alpine garden, the tropical greenhouses, and the various pathways lined with trees and flowers offer diverse backdrops for photos and the ceremony itself. The serene and natural environment creates a peaceful and romantic atmosphere.
TIPS & TRICKS
Pros:
● Unique and beautiful setting.
● Variety of backdrops for photos.
● Relatively less crowded than some other popular locations.
● Natural and romantic atmosphere.
Cons:
● Permits are absolutely required for formal ceremonies and professional photography. Contact the Muséum national d’Histoire naturelle (which manages the Jardin) well in advance. The Mairie will also need to be contacted. This can be a complex process.
● Some areas may have restricted access.
● May not be suitable for large groups.
● Not as instantly recognizable as some other landmarks.
Best Time of Day:
● Early morning: Offers softer light and fewer visitors.
● Late afternoon: Golden hour can create a beautiful ambiance.
● Weekdays: Generally less busy than weekends.
● Check the opening hours of the Jardin as they may vary, and consider specific opening times for the various gardens within.
Best Season:
● Spring and Fall: Pleasant weather and fewer tourists. The gardens are also particularly beautiful during these seasons with blooming flowers or colorful foliage.
● Summer: Beautiful with lush greenery, but expect more visitors.
● Winter: Can be charming, but be prepared for colder temperatures and potentially fewer blooming flowers. Some gardens or greenhouses may have limited hours or be closed.
BIBLIOTHÈQUE MAZARINE COURTYARD
The Bibliothèque Mazarine Courtyard offers a hidden and historically rich setting for a unique Parisian elopement. Tucked away in the heart of the Latin Quarter, this courtyard provides a tranquil and elegant backdrop for an intimate ceremony.
The surrounding buildings, steeped in history, create a unique and sophisticated ambiance. It’s a lesser-known location, offering a sense of discovery and exclusivity.
TIPS & TRICKS
Pros:
● Unique and historically significant location.
● Tranquil and secluded atmosphere.
● Beautiful classical architecture.
● Less crowded than other popular locations.
Cons:
● Access and permits are absolutely required and are likely very difficult to obtain. Contact the Bibliothèque Mazarine directly well in advance to discuss the possibility. The Mairie will also need to be contacted. Be prepared for potential restrictions and fees.
● May not be suitable for large groups.
● Photography restrictions likely apply.
● Not as instantly recognizable as some other landmarks.
Best Time of Day:
● Early morning: Offers softer light and fewer visitors in the surrounding area.
● Late afternoon: Golden hour can create a beautiful ambiance.
● Check the opening hours and accessibility of the Bibliothèque Mazarine courtyard as they may vary.
Best Season:
● Spring and Fall: Pleasant weather and fewer tourists in Paris overall.
● Summer: Can be beautiful, but expect more tourists in the surrounding area.
● Winter: Can be charming, but be prepared for colder temperatures. The courtyard may be less vibrant. Access may also be more limited during inclement weather.
HAMEAU DE LA REINE (VERSAILLES)
The Hameau de la Reine, Marie Antoinette’s charming and rustic retreat within the grounds of the Palace of Versailles, offers a truly unique and enchanting setting for a Parisian elopement. Its picturesque cottages, gardens, and mill create a fairytale-like atmosphere, far removed from the grandeur of the main palace.
With its thatched-roof cottages, working farm, and idyllic gardens, it provides a whimsical and romantic backdrop for an elopement. The rustic charm and peaceful atmosphere make it feel like a world away from the bustling city of Paris, even though it’s relatively close. It’s a perfect choice for couples seeking a unique and intimate celebration.
TIPS & TRICKS
Pros:
● Unique and incredibly picturesque setting.
● Romantic and fairytale-like atmosphere.
● Less crowded than the main palace at Versailles.
● Offers a sense of seclusion and intimacy.
Cons:
● Requires separate tickets/access from the main Palace of Versailles.
● Permits are absolutely required and are likely very difficult to obtain. Contact the Palace of Versailles directly well in advance to discuss the possibility. The Mairie will also need to be contacted. Be prepared for potential restrictions and fees.
● May not be suitable for large groups.
● Transportation to Versailles from Paris needs to be considered.
Best Time of Day:
● Early morning: Offers softer light and fewer visitors.
● Late afternoon: Golden hour can create a magical ambiance.
● Check the opening hours of the Hameau de la Reine as they may vary, as well as the general opening hours for the Palace of Versailles.
Best Season:
● Spring and Fall: Pleasant weather and fewer tourists. The gardens are also particularly beautiful during these seasons.
● Summer: Beautiful, but expect more visitors.
● Winter: Can be charming, but be prepared for colder temperatures. The gardens and grounds may be less vibrant. Access may also be more limited during inclement weather.
OBSERVATOIRE DE PARIS GARDEN
The Observatoire de Paris Garden, a serene and often overlooked green space, offers a unique and intimate setting for a Parisian elopement. Its historical significance and peaceful atmosphere provide a charming backdrop for a special ceremony.
While not as grand as some of the other Parisian gardens, its intimate size and quiet beauty offer a unique charm. The garden’s historical connection to astronomy and science adds an interesting dimension to the setting.
TIPS & TRICKS
Pros:
● Unique and peaceful setting.
● Less crowded than many other popular locations.
● Intimate and secluded atmosphere.
● Historically significant location.
Cons:
● Permits are absolutely required and are likely very difficult to obtain. Contact the Observatoire de Paris directly well in advance to discuss the possibility. The Mairie will also need to be contacted. Be prepared for potential restrictions and fees.
● May not be suitable for large groups.
● Photography restrictions may apply.
● Not as instantly recognizable as some other landmarks.
Best Time of Day:
● Early morning: Offers softer light and fewer visitors in the surrounding area.
● Late afternoon: Golden hour can create a beautiful ambiance.
● Check the opening hours and accessibility of the Observatoire de Paris Garden as they may vary.
Best Season:
● Spring and Fall: Pleasant weather and fewer tourists in Paris overall. The garden is also particularly beautiful during these seasons.
● Summer: Can be beautiful, but expect more tourists in the surrounding area.
● Winter: Can be charming, but be prepared for colder temperatures. The garden may be less vibrant. Access may also be more limited during inclement weather.
PONT DE BIR-HAKEIM (UNDER THE ARCHES) – GREAT FOR RAINY DAYS
While the Pont de Bir-Hakeim itself is a popular spot for photos, the area under the bridge, with its metal arches and industrial chic vibe, offers a unique and less conventional setting for a Parisian elopement.
The area under the Pont de Bir-Hakeim, particularly the section closest to the Seine River, provides an interesting contrast to the more classic Parisian locations. The metal arches, the exposed structural elements, and the views of the Eiffel Tower create a modern and somewhat edgy atmosphere. It’s a great choice for couples looking for something a bit different.
TIPS & TRICKS
Pros:
Unique and industrial-chic setting.
Less crowded than the top of the bridge.
Interesting architectural details.
Offers a different perspective of the Eiffel Tower.
Cons:
Not as instantly recognizable as some other landmarks.
Permits may be required for formal ceremonies (check with the Mairie).
Can be noisy due to traffic on the bridge above.
Limited space, may not be suitable for large groups.
Best Time of Day:
Early morning: Offers softer light and fewer people around.
Late afternoon/early evening: Golden hour can create a dramatic and beautiful ambiance.
Avoid rush hour for less traffic noise.
Best Season:
Spring and Fall: Pleasant weather and fewer tourists overall.
Summer: Can be beautiful, but expect more people in the area.
Winter: Can be charming, but be prepared for colder temperatures and potentially less pleasant weather. The metal structures can also be quite cold to the touch in winter.
DOMAINE DE MALMAISON
The Domaine de Malmaison, located just outside of Paris, offers a beautiful and historically significant setting for a more secluded and elegant Parisian elopement. This former residence of Napoleon Bonaparte and Joséphine de Beauharnais provides a grand and romantic atmosphere.
The elegant architecture, the manicured lawns, and the tranquil atmosphere create a sophisticated and romantic ambiance. It’s a great option for couples seeking a grand yet intimate celebration outside the bustling city center.
TIPS & TRICKS
Pros:
Beautiful and historically significant location.
Grand and romantic atmosphere.
Relatively less crowded than central Paris locations.
Variety of picturesque backdrops.
Cons:
Located outside of Paris, so transportation needs to be considered.
Permits are absolutely required and are likely very difficult to obtain. Contact the Domaine de Malmaison directly well in advance to discuss the possibility. The Mairie will also need to be contacted. Be prepared for potential restrictions and fees.
May not be suitable for large groups.
Photography restrictions may apply.
Best Time of Day:
Early morning: Offers softer light and fewer visitors.
Late afternoon: Golden hour can create a beautiful ambiance.
Check the opening hours of the Domaine de Malmaison as they may vary.
Best Season:
Spring and Fall: Pleasant weather and fewer tourists. The gardens are also particularly beautiful during these seasons.
Summer: Can be beautiful, but expect more visitors.
Winter: Can be charming, but be prepared for colder temperatures. The gardens and grounds may be less vibrant. Access may also be more limited during inclement weather.
We hope this guide has inspired you and provided the information you need to find the ideal setting for your intimate celebration of love, your elopement in Paris.
Remember to consider your personal vibe, the time of year, and the overall atmosphere you wish to create.
With a little planning and a touch of Parisian romance, your elopement in the City of Love will be an unforgettable experience.
Quick resources to help you ace your Paris elopement:
