Special occasion breaks in Paris

Celebrating a special occasion in Paris

Major wedding anniversaries and birthdays only come around once but how will you celebrate? Treat yourself (or somebody else) to a luxury break in Paris, staying in a glamorous hotel close to the major attractions. Or, if you prefer to keep it low-key (but memorable nonetheless) opt for a simpler hotel but splash out on a romantic night-time cruise along the Seine. Treat your best friend to afternoon tea at one of Paris's top hotels – or go on a wild shopping spree for that Chanel bag. Need some more help?

Here are a few suggestions on how to make your break that much more 'special'.

Things to do in Paris for a special occasion

There’s never a shortage of things to do in Paris. Proud of its enduring revolutionary spirit, the city is dotted with reminders of its long and storied history: Roman ruins, royal palaces and imposing monuments to France’s illustrious writers and artists. Once you’ve ticked culture off your list of Paris activities, there’s still plenty left to do.

Romantic cruise on the River Seine

Paris is beautiful at night and what better place to enjoy it than on the River Seine? Enjoy a romantic dinner as you cruise past the beautifully-lit monuments along the banks of the river. Then, end the evening with champagne and some over-the-top glamour at the famous Le Moulin Rouge in Paris’s Pigalle district.

Stay at Bac St. Germain Hotel, a stone's throw from beautiful Boulevard Saint-Germain, a sophisticated and restful central point from which to explore all the city’s most sought-after sights.

Have one of everything

You’ll definitely need two sweet-toothed gourmands to tackle Carette’s glorious platter of petits fours. From glossy choux to a classic Mont Blanc and seasonal fruit tarts, the bite-sized pastries are a delight to share. Order a hot chocolate, snuggle up on the heated terrace and look out over Place des Vosges. It’s arguably one of Paris’s prettiest squares

Go upmarket at Galeries Lafayette

Paris is the home of shopping, and the Galeries Lafayette department store is an experience no serious fashionista should miss. From the amazing choice of up-market brands to the stunning stained-glass dome that soars above the central hall, it's a shopper's delight.

You can even take a historical tour to learn about the store's founders as well as take the private elevators to the terrace.

If you want to stay nearby, the prestigious Le Mathurin Hotel is just a few minutes walk away. Hotel guests get a free drink in the Galeries Lafayette lounge and can have their shopping delivered to the hotel, so no need to carry your purchases home

Enjoy rooftop views of Paris

You'll get some amazing views from the top of the Eiffel Tower and other tall buildings in Paris, but probably the best place for panoramic views combined with atmosphere, is the area of Montmartre. Topped by the Sacre Coeur Basilica, this hill to the north of Paris is a bit of a climb, but worth it.

Stay nearby at the Terrass Hotel, and you won't even need to go out to enjoy the views, just head up to the roof terrace, order yourself a drink and take in the breathtaking views of the city.

Michelin Star dinner at the Eiffel Tower

If you want to impress on a special occasion, there are few more premium experiences than dinner at Le Jules Verne, on the second floor of the Eiffel Tower. For spectacular night-time views and fine dining, this Michelin Star restaurant will not disappoint. Reservations fill up fast though - so make sure you book months in advance.

For something less ostentatious, but still delicious, Poulette offers a decent alternative with its classic cocktails and steak frites in a stunning Belle Epoque setting.

Make your trip part of the experience

If you are travelling as a group, the fun doesn't have to wait till you get to Paris. If you really want to make the most of your special occasion break, why not book out an entire coach on Eurostar?

Exclusive coaches are available for groups of 30 or more, and you can even personalise the headrests to make the coach your own and choose from a range of catering options.

If you really want to push the boat out, you can have an experience organised in your exclusive coach to entertain your guests and put them in the party mood. Choose from themes that match your destination such as food and drink, arts and culture and be immersed in your destination before you even get there.