Bordeaux has been crowned the most romantic getaway destination in France, ideal for couples seeking a special half-term break, according to a recent study by Seine River Cruises. The findings, which analyse data from TripAdvisor and Google Keyword Planner, highlight the charm of less conventional cities over traditional romantic hotspots.
The study ranked France’s largest cities based on factors such as monthly Google searches, proximity to airports, coastal access, and the availability of attractions designed for couples. Researchers also examined the number of luxury hotels and Michelin-starred restaurants, particularly focusing on romantic keywords in reviews, to identify the best romantic experiences in each location.
Bordeaux, the wine capital of France, topped the list with an impressive 40.62 monthly Google searches per 100,000 people. Located just five kilometres from the nearest airport, it offers 42 attractions for couples and 46 luxury or romantic hotels, all boasting reviews that frequently feature terms like “intimate” and “romantic.” Furthermore, Bordeaux is home to an impressive 98 Michelin-starred restaurants per 100,000 people, solidifying its status as a premier destination for couples seeking memorable experiences.
Paris, often regarded as the quintessential romantic city, comes in second place. The French capital sees the highest monthly Google searches, with 120.02 searches per 100,000 people. Its proximity to the airport, just one kilometre from the city centre, makes it exceptionally accessible for couples. Despite being inland, Paris compensates with its world-renowned art, gastronomy, and culture. Couples can choose from 28 attractions, 33 luxury hotels, and 93 Michelin-starred restaurants, all of which feature romantic descriptors in reviews, ensuring unforgettable experiences.
In third place, Aix-en-Provence remains an undiscovered gem for couples. While it records no monthly Google searches, it offers a wealth of attractions, including 31 tourist sites, 53 luxury hotels, and 77 Michelin-starred restaurants per 100,000 people. Though the nearest airport is 15 kilometres away, the city provides a charming atmosphere perfect for romantic getaways.
Nice, located on the Mediterranean coast, ranks fourth with 59.06 monthly Google searches. Its close proximity to the airport—just two kilometres away—makes it a favourite among couples. Nice offers 35 attractions, 21 luxury hotels, and 73 Michelin-starred restaurants, making it a popular choice for those looking to enjoy beachside romance.
The most romantic French getaway destinations
| Rank | City | Monthly Google searches | Airport distance (in kilometres) | Coastal or not | Tourist attractions for couples | Luxury and romantic hotels | Michelin-star and romantic restaurants | |
| 1 | Bordeaux | 40.62 | 5 | no | 42 | 46 | 98 | |
| 2 | Paris | 120.02 | 1 | no | 28 | 33 | 93 | |
| 3 | Aix-en-Provence | 0.00 | 15 | no | 31 | 53 | 77 | |
| 4 | Nice | 59.06 | 2 | yes | 35 | 21 | 73 | |
| 5 | Montpellier | 1.34 | 3 | yes | 13 | 17 | 60 | |
| 6 | Clermont-Ferrand | 0.00 | 71 | no | 10 | 5 | 48 | |
| 7 | Dijon | 0.00 | 29 | no | 18 | 11 | 46 | |
| 8 | Strasbourg | 0.00 | 4 | no | 14 | 18 | 52 | |
| 9 | Lyon | 2.65 | 2 | no | 15 | 11 | 60 | |
| 10 | Marseille | 8.60 | 3 | yes | 10 | 6 | 26 | |
Montpellier rounds out the top five, with only 1.34 monthly Google searches. This southern French city boasts a Mediterranean location and is just three kilometres from the nearest airport. Couples can explore 13 tourist attractions, 17 luxury hotels, and 60 Michelin-starred restaurants, highlighting its romantic potential despite being overlooked.
Magdalena Petrusic, a travel expert from Seine River Cruises, commented on the findings, noting that while Paris often dominates the romantic getaway conversation, cities like Bordeaux and Aix-en-Provence offer equally enchanting experiences. She stated, “With fewer tourists, couples can truly soak in the atmosphere and explore local attractions without long queues. Their photos will also be free from strangers in the background.”
The study’s results provide couples with a curated guide to France’s most romantic destinations, proving that love can flourish beyond the well-trodden paths of Paris.