Julia's Travel Salon: Our romantic Paris tips

Thanks for watching our Salon with Julia! Here’s a recap of the romantic places, with some practical information we mentioned.

1.Boat to a secret island

The Bois de Boulogne is an enormous park to the west of the city. There’s a lake in the middle, which features two islands.

If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a rowboat for 25 euros (cash only) and have a picnic on one of the secluded islands. Otherwise, you can take a 45 second ferry across to Le Chalet des Iles bar (pictured) which is the perfect place for a romantic sunset drink. It’s said the social elite congregated here in Napoleon III’s time.

2. Brunch at a hidden hotel

This hotel is so hidden that even the locals don’t know about it (seriously!). It’s called the Hotel Particulier and you’ll need to approach from the north side, ring a buzzer, and state your business. (C’est pour le restaurant, s’il vous plaît).

You’ll be buzzed into a beautiful cobbled alleyway that leads to the hotel, which is a perfect hideaway if you want a meal or a drink with a loved one. Or even alone! We heartily recommend the brunch there!

Buzzer address: 23 Avenue Junot, 75018

3. The swan walk everyone misses

It’s crazy to think how many people visit the Eiffel Tower without taking the wondrous walk beside it to the Ile Aux Cygnes (Island of the Swans).

Tip: Head away from the tower and down the steps to the left. Sure, there are many people down here, but the secret is to follow the river downstream. This walk along the moored peniches is worth it alone, but eventually you’ll see a man-made island to your right. Cross a bridge to get there and walk through the middle. Don’t miss the Statue of Liberty replica at the end! (It’s one of eight in Paris!)

Here’s a video from when we walked the whole thing! Subscribe on YouTube, please 🙂

4. Cocktails with a panoramic view

Another unmissable treat near the Eiffel Tower is the top floor of the Pullman Hotel. As I said in the show, it’s amazing that no one goes up here, it’s one of the best views of the Eiffel I’ve ever seen.

Tip: If you’re on a budget, just get a bottle of wine and make it last. Time it for the sunset, too, and you’ll have a night to remember.

Address: 22 Rue Jean Rey, 75015

5. Tea in a very ‘romantic’ cafe

And lastly, why not visit the hidden garden cafe at the aptly named Musée de la Vie Romantique? The museum, which features mostly romantic portraits from Dutchman Ary Scheffer, is also worth a look. But the best bit, if you ask us, is this gem of a cafe.

You’ll feel like you’re the only people in Paris, it’s often so empty and quiet. But note: The hot chocolate was disgusting. This is a cafe for the ambience rather than the Michelin-starred food.

Address: 16 Rue Chaptal, 75009

That’s it! Five romantic places, we hope you can visit them all.

Now, if you’re a fan of books with romantic introductions, my memoir Paris On Air is for you. You can find it via the icons below. And why not add Kylie the Crocodile to the bundle and give a special Paris treat to a little one you know. We’re shipping from Chicago while stocks last. (Yes, the bundle is a special price, don’t tell anyone).