How to Elope in Paris in 2025
Last updated: December 21, 2024
This will be the best moment of your life.
Thinking about ditching the big wedding chaos for something epic? Switzerland is where it’s at. Picture this: giant snow-capped peaks, turquoise lakes as vibrant as your personalities, and you two, madly in love, doing things your way. Let’s get you two hitched in the land of mountain dreams. Here’s everything you need to know to pull it off.
- Sunrise is Your Best Friend – Paris is a major tourist destination, and the most iconic spots, like Trocadéro (Eiffel Tower), Montmartre, and the Seine River, can be packed by mid-morning. If you want a quiet, intimate ceremony with fewer people around, plan for a sunrise elopement. Not only will you have more privacy, but the soft, golden light at dawn is absolutely magical for photos.
- Symbolic Ceremonies are the Easiest – If you’re not a resident of France, legally marrying in Paris can be a complicated process. It requires at least 40 days of residency and a lot of paperwork. Because of this, most couples choose to complete the legal part of their marriage at home and then have a symbolic ceremony in Paris. This gives you complete freedom to design your ceremony exactly how you want; no legal hoops to jump through!
- Paris Weather Can Be Unpredictable – While Paris is stunning in every season, the weather can sometimes throw surprises your way. Spring and fall are gorgeous but can bring unexpected rain showers. Summer can be far too hot and humid, while winter is crisp and sometimes rainy. If you’re eloping outdoors, having a clear umbrella (your photographer or planner should be able to help you out with these) and a backup indoor location, like a cozy Parisian café or a private terrace, can be a lifesaver.
- Cobblestone Streets & Heels Don’t Mix – Paris is famous for its charming, historic streets, but those beautiful cobblestones aren’t always heel-friendly! If you’re planning on walking around for photos, it’s a good idea to bring a comfortable pair of shoes to swap in between shots. You can still rock stylish heels for your ceremony, but having flats or block heels for exploring will keep your feet happy.
- Permits May Be Required – Paris is generally very elopement-friendly, and most public places don’t require permits for small ceremonies. However, some locations, like Luxembourg Gardens, do have permit requirements or specific rules about photography. If you have a particular location in mind, it’s worth checking in advance or having your photographer guide you on the best spots that don’t require extra paperwork.
- A Seine River Cruise is a Romantic Way to Celebrate – What could be more romantic than gliding down the Seine, sipping champagne, and soaking in the sights of Paris? A private boat cruise is a unique way to celebrate your elopement after your ceremony. Many boats offer intimate dining experiences, or you can simply enjoy the ride while taking in views of landmarks like Notre Dame and the Eiffel Tower.
- Parisian Vendors Book Up Quickly – If you want to work with the best Parisian elopement vendors—photographers, florists, hair & makeup artists, and officiants, it’s best to book them early. Paris is a hotspot for weddings and elopements, especially in peak seasons like spring and summer. To get the vendors that match your vision, reach out at least a few months in advance.
- Dinner Reservations are a Must – Paris has some of the best restaurants in the world, but many of them require reservations, sometimes weeks in advance. Whether you’re dreaming of an intimate candlelit dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant or a cozy meal at a classic French bistro, securing your spot ahead of time ensures you’ll have the perfect place to toast to your new adventure.
- Capture the Magic with a Picnic – A Parisian picnic is a fun and intimate way to celebrate your elopement. Picture yourselves lounging on a blanket with fresh baguettes, cheese, pastries, and a bottle of wine while soaking in views of the Seine or the Eiffel Tower. Some local vendors even offer curated picnic setups, complete with cushions and décor for an extra romantic touch.
- Embrace the Parisian Pace – Parisians take their time enjoying life, whether it’s a long meal, a quiet moment in a park, or a leisurely walk along the river. Eloping in Paris isn’t just about saying “I do”; it’s about experiencing the magic of the city. Slow down, sip your espresso at a corner café, wander the streets with no set plan, and truly soak in every little detail of your day.
- Taking public transport is the easiest thing ever. The metro takes you everywhere, and it will be a huge pain to get around by car- so don't do it. If you want to rent a special wedding car for photos, there are places that do that! They've got some very cool vintage cars that really look like they "belong" on the streets of Paris.
- Learn some basic French. Get on Duolingo, bring a translator, "French for Dummies"; whatever works for you. Some basic phrases may come in handy because you won't always find English speakers, especially outside tourist centers. And even if you don't need to use it, the locals always appreciate a little language effort!
- You will be able to get around using your credit card, To avoid fees and bad conversion rates, I highly recommend using Wise or Revolut. They are both free to use, Wise is probably a bit cheaper overall, but Revolut is more known. I use both and am super happy with them! They don't charge fees for international charges like credit cards, they use a very good conversion rate, they give you cash back for keeping money in the account, and they are the cheapest way to transfer money to people internationally (say, your photographer)! You can use my referral codes if you do need to transfer money internationally, and want a first free transfer:
Wise
Revolut
Heads up; I'm not affiliated with either, they have just made my life a lot easier when travelling and for accepting payments, so I'm stoked to support them.
Good things to know when eloping in Paris:
Paris can be as budget-friendly or as luxurious as you want. Whether you’re dreaming of a simple elopement with just the two of you or an elegant celebration with all the extras, there are plenty of options to make your day special.
Check out XE.com to find the conversion rates for your currency, these prices are in USD.
Budgets for eloping in Paris in 2025:
- Flights to Paris (from North America): $500–$1,500 per person.
- Transportation: Paris has great public transport! A Navigo pass for unlimited metro/bus rides is ~$90 for the week.
- Hotels, guesthouses, or Airbnbs: $150–$600+/night, depending on location and style.
- Dining out: $25–$50 per meal per person at casual bistros, much more at fine dining spots.
- Picnic essentials: ~$40–$80 for wine, cheese, bread, and pastries (because why not?).
Elopement-Specific Costs (Approx. $7,000–$14,000+):
- Photographer: $5,000–$10,000+ (varies based on experience, coverage, and planning assistance).
- Hair & Makeup: $400–$800 for on-location services.
- Bouquet & Florals: $150–$400 for a bouquet, boutonniere, and some extra blooms.
- Outfits: Prices vary depending on your vibe—classic, chic, or full-on couture.
- Private Seine River Cruise: ~$350–$700 for a romantic boat ride with champagne.
- Live Music: A violinist, guitarist, or accordion player for ~$250–$600.
- Fine Dining Experience: Michelin-starred restaurants can be $300+ for two.
- Luxury Picnic Setup: $250–$500 for a curated picnic with pillows, décor, and delicious treats.
- Officiant or Celebrant: $800–$1,500 for a personalized ceremony.
- Videographer: $3,500–$7,000.
- Elopement Planner: $2500–$5,000 for assistance with logistics and design.
- Vintage Car Rental: ~$400–$800 for a few hours in a classic French car.
Paris is known for its efficient, easy-to-navigate public transportation, but you also have plenty of options to explore the city in style, whether you're keeping things low-key or looking to add some glam to your elopement experience. Here’s how to get around the City of Light:
1. The Paris Metro (Subway)
Why it’s awesome: The Paris Metro is one of the most efficient ways to get around the city. With 16 lines connecting almost every corner of Paris, it’s quick, reliable, and budget-friendly.
Cost: A single ticket costs about €1.90 (roughly $2.05 USD). You can also buy a carnet (pack of 10 tickets) for a better deal.
Best for: Getting to major spots like the Eiffel Tower, Montmartre, the Louvre, and other iconic landmarks without the stress of traffic.
Tip: If you’re staying for more than a few days, consider buying a Navigo card for unlimited travel on the metro, buses, and RER (regional trains). It’s about €22.80/week ($24 USD) for unlimited rides.
2. Walking
Why it’s awesome: Paris is an incredibly walkable city. You can easily stroll through charming streets, beautiful gardens, and along the Seine, taking in the sights and sounds along the way. Plus, walking gives you the chance to discover hidden gems you might miss on public transport.
Best for: Exploring neighborhoods like Le Marais, Montmartre, and the Latin Quarter. Plus, walking along the Seine or through the Tuileries Gardens gives you those quintessential Parisian moments!
Tip: Make sure to wear comfy shoes (Paris has a lot of cobblestone streets). A chic pair of sneakers or flats will be your best friend while exploring.
How to get around in Paris in 2025:
3. Buses
Why it’s awesome: Paris’ buses are a more scenic way to get around the city compared to the metro. It’s a great option if you want to see the streets while traveling. The routes cover all major parts of the city.
Cost: The same as the metro at €1.90 per ride, or you can use the Navigo card for unlimited access.
Best for: Seeing the city’s neighborhoods as you travel, and it’s a good alternative if you don’t want to navigate the underground.
Tip: If you're not sure about routes or schedules, Google Maps will be your best friend for figuring out the bus routes in real-time.
4. Taxis & Ride-Sharing (Uber)
Why it’s awesome: If you want a more private way to get around Paris, taxis or Uber are great options. They’re perfect for when you want a quick, direct route to your destination or if you’re in a rush.
Cost: Depending on where you’re going, taxi fares start at about €7 ($7.50 USD), and Uber is generally around the same range or slightly cheaper.
Best for: When you’re in a hurry or if you want to avoid the crowds on public transportation. Perfect if you’re heading to a less central location, or need to get to your hotel after a night out!
Tip: Use Uber for a quicker, more affordable option (especially if you don’t want to deal with finding a taxi in the street). Make sure to have the address in French when asking a taxi to take you somewhere.
5. Bike Rentals (Velib’)
Why it’s awesome: Paris is super bike-friendly, with designated bike lanes and paths all over the city. The Velib’ bike-sharing system is perfect if you want to get around in a fun, active way.
Cost: You can rent a bike starting at €1.70/hour ($1.85 USD), or you can grab a subscription for the day at about €5 ($5.40 USD).
Best for: A relaxed, scenic way to see the sights. Pedal through the parks, along the Seine, or down the Champs-Élysées for a romantic and adventurous experience.
Tip: Be sure to download the Velib’ app to find bike stations nearby, and check the bike’s condition before setting off. Helmets aren’t provided, so bring your own if safety is a priority.
6. Boat (Batobus & Private Cruises)
Why it’s awesome: The Seine is one of the most iconic rivers in the world, and seeing Paris from the water is a whole new experience. You can take a Batobus, which is a hop-on, hop-off boat service, or book a private boat cruise.
Cost: Batobus tickets are about €17 ($18 USD) for a day pass. Private boat cruises range from $350–$700 depending on the experience.
Best for: If you’re looking to add a romantic touch to your elopement, a private boat ride is the perfect way to celebrate your ceremony. Plus, the views of Paris’ landmarks from the water are incredible!
Tip: Book a private Seine cruise for a more intimate experience, with options for dinner or champagne on board.
7. Classic Parisian Car (Vintage or Chauffeured)
Why it’s awesome: If you want to travel in true Parisian style, consider renting a vintage car like a 2CV Citroën or a luxury chauffeured car. It’s a unique, unforgettable way to get around.
Cost: Vintage car rentals range from €200–€500+ for a few hours, depending on the car. Chauffeured cars can be more expensive, with prices starting around €100/hour ($110 USD).
Best for: A luxurious, glamorous touch to your elopement, or if you want to add something special to your day. It's also perfect if you're looking to get photos in an iconic car, like a 2CV or a convertible.
Tip: Book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, as vintage cars can be popular for weddings and elopements.
Best Time to Visit Paris in 2025:
Spring (March – May):
Spring in Paris is peak romance. The city begins to wake up from the chilly winter, and everything feels fresh and vibrant. Flowers start blooming, the parks turn lush green, and there’s an undeniable energy in the air.
Why Elope in Spring?
By mid-March, magnolia trees begin blooming, followed by cherry blossoms in April. You’ll find them in places like Jardin des Plantes, Parc de Sceaux, Notre-Dame, and the Eiffel Tower gardens—all perfect for romantic elopement photos. Expect daytime temperatures around 12–20°C (54–68°F), making it pleasant for walking around in wedding attire without sweating or freezing. March and early April tend to be quieter, making it easier to find private spots for your vows before peak tourist season kicks in.
Rain is Unpredictable: Spring showers are common, especially in April. It’s not a dealbreaker, but having a clear umbrella or a backup indoor plan is a good idea.
Easter Crowds: If your elopement is around Easter (late March or April), expect more tourists and slightly higher prices on flights and hotels.
Summer (June – August):
Summer in Paris is warm, energetic, and filled with golden light. To me, though, I find it the least ideal time to elope here, especially in July and August.
Why Elope in Summer?
The sun rises early (around 5:45 AM) and sets late (around 10:00 PM) in June, which can be nice to avoid crowds. There are lots of things happening and outdoor locations are open, like rooftop bars, and open-air jazz concerts along the Seine. The whole city comes alive in summer!
You do have to consider that it's peak tourist season, so more crowds. From late June to mid-August, Paris is PACKED. If you want an intimate elopement, sunrise is your best friend for quieter moments at popular spots. Flights and accommodations tend to be at their highest, so plan and book early.
Temperatures regularly range from 25–35°C (68–86°F), and heatwaves happen often, with 40°C+ weather. Humidity can be high, and with the dense pollution of the city, it can feel quite gross at times. Choosing light, breathable wedding attire is key!
Fall (September – November):
Autumn in Paris is one of the best times to elope—the summer crowds fade, the temperatures cool down, and the fall foliage adds warm tones to the city’s already dreamy aesthetic.
Why Elope in Fall?
Paris transforms into a golden wonderland in October, with Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, Jardin du Palais Royal, and the Seine riverside looking especially magical. Temperatures range from 10–22°C (50–72°F), making it perfect for walking around in wedding attire. September still has some visitors, but by October and November, you’ll have a much quieter Paris.
By November, the sun rises at 8:00 AM and sets around 5:00 PM, so you don't have to be too extreme for the most beautiful light. Thankfully, it's not as busy with people, but there will still be people around during these times, making the touristy spots less private. there is also slightly more rain in November – But nothing an elegant trench coat or a cozy indoor venue can’t fix!
Winter (December – February):
Paris in winter is very cozy. If you love the idea of an intimate, atmospheric elopement with glowing streetlights and warm cafés, winter might be perfect for you. Forewarning: I don't mean to burst your bubble, but the chances of snow aren't so high.
Why Elope in Winter?
If you elope in December, you’ll see the Champs-Élysées, Galeries Lafayette, and Notre-Dame lit up with dazzling holiday lights.
Christmas and New Year aside, it's the least crowded time of year. January and February are the quietest months in Paris, meaning you’ll have popular spots like the Eiffel Tower, Montmartre, and the Seine with a lot more privacy.
Temperatures range from 3–10°C (37–50°F), so bundle up in stylish layers for warmth. The sun rises around 8:40 AM and sets around 4:30 PM in December, so plan for an early ceremony. While Paris doesn’t get much snow, a light dusting can add a dreamy effect to your photos if you're lucky!
Trocadéro (Eiffel Tower View)
Vibe: Iconic, Grand, Instantly Recognizable
Trocadéro offers that classic, jaw-dropping Eiffel Tower view. It’s one of the most popular sunrise elopement spots because the soft morning light combined with fewer tourists makes it feel magical. During the day, it gets very busy with crowds, vendors, and tour groups.
* Hours: Open 24/7 (outdoor plaza).
* Best Time: Sunrise (before 8 AM) to avoid crowds and harsh light.
* Extra Tip: Watch out for wedding photographers—this is a hot spot for multiple shoots happening at once!
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Best Elopement Locations in Paris for 2025:
Champ de Mars (Park at the Foot of the Eiffel Tower)
Vibe: Relaxed, Romantic, Park-Like
The Champ de Mars is the big grassy park stretching out from the Eiffel Tower, perfect if you want a chill vibe for your ceremony and space to set up a little picnic afterward.
* Hours: Open 24/7.
* Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon golden hour.
* Extra Tip: Some areas may be roped off if maintenance is happening (they rotate grass sections), so scouting beforehand helps!
Seine River & Bridges (Pont Alexandre III, Pont Bir-Hakeim, Passerelle Debilly)
Vibe: Elegant, Storybook, Cinematic
The Seine’s bridges and banks are pure Paris romance. Pont Alexandre III is especially ornate with gold statues and old-world glamour, while Pont Bir-Hakeim is a modern, sleek spot with killer Eiffel Tower views. Passerelle Debilly is more hidden and feels cozier.
* Hours: Always open (they're public bridges).
* Best Time: Sunrise or sunset for the dreamiest light + fewer crowds.
* Extra Tip: The bridges light up beautifully at night for an evening ceremony or portraits!
Montmartre (Sacré-Cœur + Side Streets)
Vibe: Artistic, Intimate, Whimsical
Montmartre feels like stepping into a French painting. The Sacré-Cœur Basilica offers epic views of Paris, and the side streets (like Rue de l’Abreuvoir and Place Dalida) are full of charm and quieter pockets for a sweet ceremony.
* Hours for Sacré-Cœur Basilica: 6 AM–10:30 PM (free entry for outside photos; separate ticket for the dome).
* Best Time: Early morning or later in the evening (daytime is very crowded).
* Extra Tip: Eloping on a weekday is your best bet here!
Luxembourg Gardens (Jardin du Luxembourg)
Vibe: Elegant, Royal, Garden Fairytale
A historic garden originally commissioned by Queen Marie de Medici in the 1600s, it’s filled with fountains, statues, and tree-lined promenades. Super romantic and so French.
* Hours: Opens between 7:30–8:15 AM and closes between 4:30–9:30 PM depending on the season. (Winter hours are much shorter!)
* Best Time: Morning to mid-morning; afternoons get busy with locals and tourists.
* Extra Tip: Permits are technically needed for professional setups (like arches, big florals, etc.), but simple ceremonies and portraits usually don't raise issues if you’re lowkey.
Palais Royal (Courtyard and Gardens)
Vibe: Artistic, Minimalist, Stylish
The Palais Royal is right next to the Louvre but feels hidden and peaceful compared to the museum crowds. The striped Buren Columns and the gardens are beautiful for modern, artsy couples.
* Hours: Courtyard open 24/7, gardens open 7 AM–11 PM.
* Best Time: Morning for privacy, or late evening when it feels even more cinematic.
* Extra Tip: This is a favorite spot for editorial-style portraits!
And there are so many others! Both highlights, and random spots. Your photographer and/or planner should be able to help you find the best place for you and whatever it is that you want/require. You just need to tell them what your goal is, whether it's hiking, taking a gondola, driving with photo stops, staying in huts, quiet places... everyone has different things in mind and "non-negotiables".
This is a huge part of the reason you hire experts; not just for beautiful photos, but to help you with the most seamless experience possible, tips and tricks you can't find on your own, and overall professionalism.
Île Saint-Louis or Île de la Cité
Vibe: Dreamy, Quiet, Riverside
These islands sit right in the Seine. Île de la Cité is more famous (with Notre-Dame), while Île Saint-Louis is quieter, filled with historic streets and little cafés.
* Hours: Always open, since they're neighborhoods.
* Best Time: Sunrise strolls for that peaceful "Paris waking up" magic.
* Extra Tip: There are hidden little quays (walkways by the water) where you can have a completely private ceremony by the river.
The Louvre Courtyard & Tuileries Garden
Vibe: Grand, Majestic, Iconic
The Louvre Courtyard (with the famous glass pyramids) is stunning at sunrise—huge open space, insane architecture, and world-famous vibes. Right next door, the Tuileries Garden is elegant and full of fountains, statues, and manicured French garden style.
* Louvre Courtyard Hours: Technically open 24/7 (museum entry has hours, but courtyard is accessible).
* Tuileries Garden Hours: Opens 7 AM; closing varies seasonally (typically closes between 7:30 PM–9 PM in summer, earlier in winter).
* Best Time: Sunrise (the Louvre is packed by mid-morning!).
* Extra Tip: Permits are required if you want large setups or pro videography at the Louvre. Super simple elopements can usually fly under the radar if you're chill about it.
Château de Villette (Outside Paris)
Vibe: Luxe, Private, Grand
About 40 minutes northwest of Paris, Château de Villette is perfect if you want full privacy and fairytale French vibes. The château grounds are enormous, with gardens, fountains, and dreamy interiors.
* Hours: Private rental by appointment (must be booked in advance).
* Best Time: Spring through fall when the gardens are at their best.
* Extra Tip: Some châteaux offer full elopement packages (venue + planner + catering), making it way easier!
Parc des Buttes-Chaumont
Vibe: Wild, Natural, Local Favorite
If you want a more adventurous, non-touristy vibe, this huge, hilly park is it. There's a dramatic cliff with a temple, waterfalls, and winding paths.
* Hours: 7 AM–8 PM (spring/summer), 7 AM–6 PM (fall/winter).
* Best Time: Morning before it fills up with locals.
* Extra Tip: The Temple de la Sibylle is a gorgeous (but tiny) viewpoint for portraits.
A Private Rooftop (Hotel or Airbnb)
Vibe: Romantic, Private, Luxe
Imagine popping champagne and exchanging vows on a rooftop terrace with sweeping views of the Eiffel Tower or Parisian rooftops. Some hotels and Airbnbs offer private access!
* Hours: Depends on your hotel or rental rules.
* Best Time: Sunset for golden hour magic over the rooftops.
* Extra Tip: Make sure to double-check the rooftop access rules—some listings allow photoshoots, others don’t.
There’s no shortage of amazing places to stay in Paris, and you can really tailor your experience to match the vibe you want for your elopement day. Whether you’re dreaming of a classic Parisian hotel, a cozy Airbnb, or something totally unique, you’ll find it here.
Of course, there are plenty of beautiful hotels and Airbnbs — from cute little apartments with wrought-iron balconies to luxurious 5-star hotels overlooking the Eiffel Tower. But if you’re looking to level it up a bit, Paris has some pretty special options too.
You could book a room in a historic château just outside the city, stay in a boutique hotel tucked away in Montmartre, or even rent a private rooftop apartment with insane views of the skyline. Paris is packed with old-world charm, but it’s also full of modern, artsy stays if you want something a little more contemporary.
If you want the full relaxation experience, I definitely recommend checking out a hotel with a spa. Some of the higher-end hotels have amazing spa services; massages, saunas, and Turkish hammams, perfect for unwinding before or after your big day. (Just a heads-up: while Parisian spas tend to be more modest compared to, say, a Scandinavian sauna situation, you might still run into a few "European norms" around nudity, especially in hammam areas. Totally normal here, no big deal.)
If you’re after a real Parisian fantasy, find a stay in a historic Haussmann-style apartment: high ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows, marble fireplaces — basically living out your own little movie. And if you're feeling adventurous, a few river barges on the Seine have been turned into hotels too. Imagine waking up on the Seine before eloping around the city... pretty epic, right?
Wherever you stay, my advice? Look for somewhere that feels like part of the experience, not just a place to sleep. After all, it’s your Paris elopement — you deserve a little extra magic.
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Accommodation in Paris in 2025:
Here are some unique places, according to their vibes:
Cozy & Romantic
• Maison Souquet
A hidden gem in Montmartre, this opulent boutique hotel is designed in the style of a Belle Époque pleasure house. It features velvet-draped rooms, a secret spa, and an atmosphere of sultry elegance—ideal for couples seeking a moody, romantic hideaway. Explore Maison Souquet
• Relais Christine
Nestled in a 17th-century mansion on the Left Bank, this intimate hotel offers a serene courtyard, Guerlain spa, and rooms adorned with antique furnishings. It's perfect for those desiring a quiet, luxurious stay in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés. Discover Relais Christine
Luxurious & Iconic
• Shangri-La Paris
Once the residence of Prince Roland Bonaparte, this palace hotel exudes grandeur with its ornate interiors and offers unparalleled views of the Eiffel Tower. Guests can indulge in Michelin-starred dining and enjoy the blend of Asian hospitality with French art de vivre. View Shangri-La Paris
• Le Meurice
Situated opposite the Tuileries Garden, Le Meurice combines 18th-century opulence with contemporary comfort. With its two Michelin-starred restaurants and Valmont spa, it's a haven for art lovers and those seeking classic Parisian luxury. Visit Le Meurice
Local Charm
• Airbnb in Le Marais or Saint-Germain-des-Prés
For a more intimate and authentic Parisian experience, consider renting a charming apartment in these historic neighborhoods. Look for listings with classic features like wrought-iron balconies, exposed beams, or cozy courtyards to enhance your romantic getaway.
Browse Airbnb Paris
Adventurous & Unique
• OFF Paris Seine
As Paris's first floating hotel, OFF Paris Seine offers a unique stay on the Seine River. With sleek, modern rooms, a lively bar, and a plunge pool, it's perfect for couples seeking a contemporary and unconventional lodging experience.
Check out OFF Paris Seine
So, you can:
- Start your day with a sunrise stroll and photoshoot at the Eiffel Tower.
- Pack a picnic and head to a Parisian park.
- Book a private Seine River cruise to celebrate.
- Stop for a coffee date at a classic Parisian café.
- Wander through a museum for a quiet, romantic moment.
- Spend some time exploring Montmartre.
- Ride around Paris in a vintage car.
- End your day with a private chef dinner or romantic restaurant experience.
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Activities in Paris for Your Elopement:
- Research and Choose a Location: I've given you a few pointers above, the rest is up to you. If you need any help, reach out to photographers and/or planners who know the area well.
- Hire a Photographer and Planner before any other Vendors: They are the first ones to get booked up, along with venues, so they should be the first ones you contact so they can help you pick your exact date. Photographers should help you with itinerary creation for the day, locations, packing lists, vendor recommendations, and those sorts of things. Planners can help you book logistical things, hotels/AirBnbs, venues, and gift further vendor recommendations + booking all of those things for you. They ensure a smooth and stress-free experience. If you're not sure which vendors you need, check out this useful resource.
- Choose a Season and a Date: I've already told you what you need to know, so choose a season, or month, and chat with your photographer or planner about a specific date. If you are planning a multi-day elopement, here are 7 reasons why you won't regret it.
- Book Transportation: Flights, trains, and buses if you're coming from elsewhere in Europe.
- Hire Other Professional Services: Whatever you haven't hired yet, don't leave it too last minute! You can book a videographer, florist, hair and makeup, decorators if you have a venue, stationary designer + printer, private chef, tour guides, and whatever else you need. If you hire a planner, she or he will book all of this for you.
Pro tip: Check out this free Ultimate 2025 Elopement Guide and remember to consult with professionals who can provide specific guidance based on your dream elopement in Paris.
They will be able to assist you with the intricate details and ensure a seamless elopement experience amidst the architectural beauty. It's the best way to make your day stress-free!
To-do list before Eloping in Paris
Need more information?
- Check Legal Requirements: Familiarize yourself with the legal requirements for getting married in France, if you want to do that. Contact the local municipality or consulate to understand the necessary documents, timelines, and any specific regulations, since they're a bit different everywhere. Hot tip: get married at home, and have a symbolic ceremony in Paris. It will save you a lot of grey hairs!
- Plan the Ceremony and Vows: Decide on the details of your ceremony, any rituals, or any unique elements you want to include. Consider the surroundings and the natural beauty of Paris to inspire your ceremony "design". With the epic backdrop, you probably won't need much, or anything at all! But it is important to include things that are dear to your heart, whether it's something physical or it's the words that come from deep within your heart.
- Optional: Invite Family and Friends (for a video call): If you've really been dreaming of eloping, but still want your family and friends to be present (read blog post on this topic here), feel free to invite a few people along, or make sure everyone has a link to a video call. Get an e-sim and make sure you get a plan with enough data for the call to last! Or make sure you've got a videographer present.
- Enjoy the Experience: Make sure you've read the 2025 Elopement Checklist, so that on your actual elopement day, you can fully take the time to soak in the beauty of the Dolomites. Allow yourself to be present in the moment and celebrate your love in this breathtaking setting. Get emotional, get crazy, and marry that partner of yours!
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I do my best to reply within 48 hours, although I could be out shooting a session or hiking in the mountains with no reception, so I do apologize for potential delays in my response. The best way to get in contact is definitely here or via direct email!
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