15 Underrated Romantic Places in France For a Valentine’s Getaway That Aren’t Paris

France is home to one of the most romantic cities in the world, Paris. But it’s so much more than one city. There are lots of other romantic places in France to choose from, especially if you’re looking for something a little less cliche.

But how do you choose the best place to go for the ultimate romantic weekend away? Well, that all depends on what you’re looking for. Are you a wine connoisseur who enjoys wine tasting and vineyard visits? Or are you more of a history buff looking to find romance in the many chateaux across France?

Perhaps you prefer to watch the sunset over the ocean with dinner for two on the beach on the French Riviera? Or maybe a cozy sleigh for two in the French Alps is more your style. Whatever your choice, after living in France for eight years now, I’ve discovered plenty of truly romantic places, some you may have heard of, and others are hidden gems only we locals know.

But they all have one thing in common: a story to tell that makes them a romantic spot in France.

15 Underrated Romantic Places in France

No. 1 The Village of Saint-Valentin

If we’re talking about romantic places in France, how could we not have the tiny village of Saint-Valentin at the top of the list? And yes, before you ask, it’s named after the saint who lends his name to Valentine’s Day. 

Located in the department of Indre, in the Centre-Val de Loire Region, this quaint village, with a population of approximately 280 inhabitants, is officially known as the village of love. 

It all began in the 1980s when the mayor at the time decided to capitalize on the name by creating a four-day festival in February.

And it worked as people flock there to see the village in all its Valentine’s glory. However, it’s a lovely place to go any time of year, and you can even hang a heart in the Tree of Eternal Hearts.

No. 2 Dinan, Brittany

If we’re talking about romantic places in France, the medieval town of Dinan deserves a spot on the list.

Tucked away in Brittany, Dinan is the perfect blend of history, charm, and a touch of fairytale magic. Its cobbled streets, half-timbered houses, and flower-filled balconies make it feel like a storybook setting brought to life. Dinan is romance, wrapped in a medieval bow.

What makes Dinan so romantic? The ramparts and ancient towers surrounding the town offer breathtaking views of the River Rance, winding below like a ribbon. Walk hand-in-hand along the Promenade de la Duchesse Anne or climb the clock tower for a view you won’t forget.

There’s a legend tied to Dinan too: the town is said to have inspired wandering troubadours who wrote ballads of love and chivalry in the Middle Ages. The Place des Cordeliers, in particular, is said to have been a meeting spot for lovers exchanging whispered promises.

No. 3 Saint-Paul de Vence, Provence

Saint-Paul de Vence is like stepping into an artist’s dream, a masterpiece of love, light, and timeless beauty. Sitting on a hilltop in Provence, this medieval village is surrounded by ancient stone walls that seem to hold centuries of whispered secrets. The winding cobblestone streets lead you past ivy-clad buildings and artisan boutiques, with every turn offering a new picture-perfect view.

But its real claim to being a romantic destination is its artistic soul. Famous artists like Marc Chagall were captivated by the village’s charm, and his work is a testament to its enduring allure.

In fact, Chagall himself is buried in the local cemetery, a quiet spot with sweeping views of the Provençal countryside that feels like an ode to eternal love.

For couples, there’s something magical about walking the ramparts at sunset, as the golden light bathes the terracotta roofs and olive groves below.

The village is also home to the renowned Colombe d’Or, a historic inn where artists like Picasso and Matisse once dined and traded their paintings for meals. Sharing a table here feels like a brushstroke in the tapestry of romance.

No. 4 Île d’Oléron, Charente-Maritime

I’ve always thought of the sea as being a great place for the setting of a romance novel, especially when there is a lighthouse involved. And Île d’Oléron has both the sea and a black-and-white lighthouse, the Lighthouse of Chassiron.

At 46 meters high, the views from the top are stunning, and the history of oyster fishing dates back many centuries.

There is even the tale of a lovestruck fisherman who was in love with a girl from the mainland, and he used to sail across the water to meet her, using the lighthouse to guide him.

No. 5 Carcassonne, Languedoc-Roussillon

I’m a history girl, and when you mix romance with history, it’s the perfect combination for me. And that’s how I fell in love with Carcassonne, the walled medieval city.

I read the trilogy of books by the English author Kate Mosse, set in Carcassonne and a magical blend of love and France through the ages.

As you walk through the gates into the Cité de Carcassonne, you’re transported back in time to the 13th century. 

Follow in the footsteps of Alais, the heroine of the trilogy, down the cobblestone streets, past the Gothic Basilica, and into the stunning castle. 

It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site wrapped in double-walled fortifications, punctuated with fifty-two towers offering panoramic views of the surrounding valley.I was lucky enough to stay at the Hotel de la Cité Carcassonne within the city walls, and it was a magical few days.

No. 6 Strasbourg, Grand Est région

Strasbourg isn’t just about Christmas Markets, although they are a big drawcard. It’s also the place that holds a ten-day festival over the Valentine’s Day period.

Strasbourg Mon Amour hosts a full programme of events, including dance parties, dinners, and even the odd love potion thrown in for good measure.

But apart from that, Strasbourg is a picturesque city known for its rich history and unique architecture. 

La Petite France, the city’s most picturesque district, is full of half-timbered houses, canals, and flower-adorned bridges.

Take a boat tour along the Ill River, climb to the top of the Strasbourg Cathedral to catch a breathtaking panorama of the cityscape, or find a quaint restaurant to enjoy Alsatian cuisine.

No. 7 Lille, Hauts-de-France region

If you love chocolate, then you absolutely need to add Lille to your list. I mean, isn’t chocolate supposed to be an aphrodisiac? 

Anyway, aside from that, Lille is renowned for its exceptional chocolate-making heritage. Maison Méert is a chocolate institution in Lille established in 1761, that still retains some of the original architecture. 

The building itself takes your breath away before you step inside and feast your eyes on the chocolates and other treats, all of which are handmade in Lille.

This shop has hosted many famous visitors, including King Léopold I and Charles de Gaulle, so you’ll be in good company.

And if that wasn’t enough, Lille is also home to Salon du Chocolat, where chocolate artisans show off their wares. They even have a fashion show with chocolate accessories, I kid you not. It’s a chocoholic’s dream.

No 8 Saint-Émilion, Bordeaux wine region

We’ve all heard of Bordeaux, and with good reason, but what about Saint-Émilion? Just 30 minutes east of Bordeaux is this beautiful village, home to over 800 vineyards. It offers an intoxicating blend of wine, history, and undeniable charm.

It’s another place that takes your breath away and is like stepping into a picture postcard.  The first time we drove to Saint-Émilion, I didn’t know where to look; it was so pretty.

But Saint-Émilion’s romance isn’t just in its beauty; it’s in its stories. Legend has it that the town was named after a hermit, Émilion, who sought refuge in a cave here during the 8th century. Today, his spirit lingers in the quiet cloisters of the monolithic church, a stunning underground masterpiece carved entirely from rock.

No. 9 Colmar, Alsace

If it’s a fairytale romance you want, Colmar in the Alsace region is the place for you. Set in the heart of Alsace, this picturesque town is a treasure trove of pastel-hued houses, flower-lined canals, and cobbled streets that seem to invite quiet strolls. Known as “Little Venice” for its enchanting waterways, Colmar offers a magical setting perfect for a romantic getaway.

Imagine gliding through the canals on a small boat, the reflections of timber-framed houses rippling in the water, or sharing a tarte flambée at a cozy café.

Every house seems to be a different colour, but this isn’t by accident. In years gone by, the colour of the house was dictated by the profession of the people living in it. So for butchers, it was red, fishermen blue, bakers were white, and cheesemakers were yellow.

No 10 Chateau de Villandry, Loire Valley

The Loire Valley is known as the “Garden of France,” with over 300 châteaux, ranging from well-preserved medieval fortresses to opulent Renaissance palaces, reflecting the diverse historical periods and architectural styles in this area of France.

But the one I want to draw your attention to is Chateau de Villandry, with its stunning gardens, particularly the Love Gardens.

Chateau de Villandry, located in the Loire Valley, is renowned for its stunning gardens, particularly the Love Gardens. This historical monument dates back to the Renaissance era. 

The Love Gardens date back to the Renaissance era and are uniquely designed, segmented into four distinct terraces, each symbolising different forms of love – tender, passionate, fickle, and tragic. These themes are artistically represented through the layout and flora of each section.

No. 11 Menton, French Riviera

If you’re searching for a romantic destination where the sea meets the sun, Menton on the French Riviera is a slice of paradise tailor-made for couples.

Nicknamed the “Pearl of France,” Menton is known for its pastel-hued buildings, fragrant citrus groves, and sweeping views of the Mediterranean. It’s old town, with narrow winding streets and hidden courtyards, feels like a place where time slows, creating the perfect setting for a romantic stroll.

The Jardins Biovès and the Val Rahmeh Botanical Garden are lush escapes where you can lose yourselves among exotic plants and blooming flowers. And no trip to Menton is complete without a visit to the Basilica of Saint-Michel, perched high above the town with views that will take your breath away.

No 12 Sancerre, Loire Valley

We’re staying in the Loire Valley for this next one, but this time, we’re going to the hilltop town of Sancerre.

If your idea of a romantic getaway is breathtaking views combined with a crisp white Sauvignon Blanc, you’re in for a treat. As the starting point for many of the wine tours in the region, it’s the perfect base.

Sancerre wine is popular, with the US being the biggest importer, and if you visit, I highly recommend Maison des Sancerre. It’s a museum that takes you through every stage of Sancerre’s story through digital media, really bringing it to life before your eyes.

The village itself is gorgeous, with its old, winding streets and medieval buildings with different colored shutters and greenery growing all over them. And you won’t be short of bistros and bars to sit in to enjoy a glass or two.

No. 13 Albi, Midi-Pyrénées

Artists, by their very nature, seem to be romantic souls, and Albi was home to the post-impressionist painter Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec. There is now a museum, the Toulouse-Lautrec Museum, which houses the largest collection of his works.

The city’s history dates back to the Bronze Age, but it gained prominence in the Middle Ages. 

The cathedral (the Cathedral of Saint Cecilia), is a stunning example of Southern Gothic architecture and one of the largest brick buildings in the world. 

Built between the 13th and 15th centuries, the cathedral is renowned for its intricate rosette windows, ornate carvings, and a remarkable Last Judgment fresco.

Its picturesque streets are lined with old-timbered houses, cozy cafes, and small boutiques, and sitting on the banks of the Tarn River, there are plenty of scenic walks to enjoy.

No. 14 Pont des Amours, Annecy

Annecy, in the French Alps, is often called the “Venice of the Alps” due to its picturesque canals, and I can understand why. 

Pont des Amours, or the “Lovers’ Bridge,” is an iron bridge that crosses the Vassé Canal, linking the Jardins de l’Europe (a large park) with the Pâquier, a vast open space near the lake. Legend has it that if two lovers kiss on the bridge, they will stay together forever, making it a popular spot for couples.

The bridge offers stunning views of Lake Annecy, one of France’s most beautiful lakes, and the surrounding mountains. It’s absolutely gorgeous at sunset as the light fades and casts a magical glow over the water and landscape.

No 15 Verteuil, Charente

I’m a little biased with Verteuil as I live just 20 minutes down the road. But if you want to feel like you’ve walked straight into the pages of a fairytale, then you’ll love Verteuil.

From almost every angle, you can see the Chateau, with its cylindrical towers, very reminiscent of those in the Rapunzel ladybird story. 

I never tire of walking across the bridge that goes over the Charente River and up into the village square.  

Every Sunday, there is a market selling seasonal produce from local artisans, and the cheese stall is insane. 

There is nothing nicer than sitting in the square with a cafe au lait, the chateau in the background and watching people mill around. It’s exactly why I moved to France, to experience moments like that.