Planning a honeymoon in France, however, can sometimes be overwhelming.  There are so many beautiful regions to visit, so many sites to see, and an endless number of restaurants to choose from.  CitySaheli has done some investigating to make your planning a bit easier.  The itinerary below is great for a two week trip.  If you aren’t going for that long, or want to spend more time in each area, pick a few spots you like most.  Remember, you can always return for an anniversary trip in the future.  Bon voyage!

Cote D’Azur – Sun, Sand and Style.

The Cote D’Azur, or French Riveria, is for those that adore the sun, the chic and the glam.  Here you’ll find breathtaking ocean views, great beaches and exciting nightlife. CitySaheli and many honeymoon experts recommend kicking off your honeymoon with the most relaxing leg of the trip.  Planning a wedding and being the center of attention can be overwhelming so France’s first stop is the Cote D’Azur.

City Saheli Picks:

Eze: Eze is a beautiful hilltop village overlooking the Mediterranean which is located just a few miles from Monte Carlo.  Don’t miss this small village for some stunning and dramatic ocean views.  Stop by at the well-known Fragonard perfume factory to see how pure perfume is made and to choose a new scent for a fraction of the price you would pay in the US.  If you have the time, spend a night or two in Eze, which offers some of the world’s best and most romantic hotels (such as Cap Estel Hotel or Chauteau de la Chevre D’Or).

Antibes:  The old town of Antibes is the ideal place to meander and lose yourselves.  The narrow cobblestone streets are filled with shops and restaurants.  Outside the village, you will find an array of boats and yachts to admire, scenic views of the city and the sea, and small beaches where you can soak up some sun.  Antibes is ideally situated between Nice and Cannes and is a great spot to stay when visiting the Rivera.  If you can, take a peep into the world famous Hotel du Cap or reserve a special honeymoon dinner for two.

Monte Carlo/Monaco:  You can’t visit the Cote D’Azur without visiting this city frequented by the rich and famous that exudes wealth and luxury.  Walk around and see some of the most luxurious yachts in the world.  If you plan to stop at the famous Le Grand Casino (a must do), but sure to dress appropriately.  A jacket is required for your beau.

Provence – Live, Love, Be.

Visit Provence if touring small provincial villages, getting lost in winding cobble stone roads and driving through olive farms and lavender fields sounds appealing to you.  Provence exudes romance, relaxation and a love for life.

City Saheli Picks:

Aix En Provence:  Known for its view of Mont Sainte-Victoire, a very famous scene painted by Paul Cezane, music festivals, restaurants and unbelievable architecture, Aix En Provence is a bustling city full of life.  If you want to stay in the heart of the Provence region, Hotel Pigonnet or Villa Gallici are marvelous spots.

Les Beaux de Provence:  Set on top of a mountain, this village consists of fortified ruins, small shops and unbeatable views of lavender and olive fields.  It is well worth the hike.

Gordes: This very beautiful old village is perched on a mountain top.  It is one of Provence’s many hilltop villages that is a must see to get a taste of true village life.

Paris – The City of Love.

Paris is a city like no other and has been dubbed as the most romantic city in the world.  It is divided into arrondissements (or districts) each with character of their own.  With the Seine River running through the middle, the city is abundant with beautiful bridges with jaw dropping views.  Don’t overlook the city’s manicured parks, generally with stunning buildings found deep inside.  Walk the city, get lost in its many winding roads, and explore!

Paris also offers endless avenues for you to build on your knowledge of history and art.  There is endless choice of world renowned museums and churches to pick from.

You can spend weeks exploring Paris and likely one trip here will make you want to come back for more.  If it’s your first time, you likely want to check out the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Notre Dame and the Champs Elysees.  In addition to these major sites, check out some of CitySaheli’s off the beaten path picks.

CitySaheli Picks:

The 5^th Arrondissement:  You find the city’s Latin Quarter in the 5^th.  This charming old district is full of life.  On the rue Mouffetard (one of the oldest streets in Paris) you will find a typical French street market during the day (open ever day except for Monday) and numerous small restaurants with tempting prix fix menus at night.

Montmartre:  Although your voyage to this region is a bit long and sometimes sketchy, don’t let this deter you from visiting this pariseinne neighborhood.  The church here is unique and the views unbeatable.  The area is also filled with an array of artists displaying their work and charming street side cafes where you can stop for a café and people watch.  C’est Romantique!

Isle Saint Louis:  Many overlook this charming little island located right next to Notre Dame.  Its like a small French village right in the middle of the big city.  Lined with small boutiques and cafes, this area of Paris is one of the most romantic and is an excellent part to visit and stay.  When taking a stroll, do stop for the famous Berthillon ice cream found only on this island.  If you do choose to make this island your home, check out the Hotel de Jeu de Paume for a dreamy stay.

We can go on and on about Paris, it is the city of love.  In addition to what’s listed above, don’t miss the Musee Rodaine and Musee D’Orsay.  Also, make sure to take a stroll through the Luxemburg Gardens and across the bridges that cross over the Seine.

If you have time, there are several day trips one can take from Paris.  Two of CitySaheli’s favorite day trips are the Palace of Versailles and Giverney, where you can see Monet’s gardens.