Inspiration for a Paris weekend break… without the kids
As far as top European city breaks go Paris is high up there. Aside from the romance, art and historic landmarks, a Paris weekend break is an obvious choice for parents seeking a quick escape thanks to flights from regional airports across the UK.
You can even hop on the train in London and arrive in Paris just 135 minutes later. That’s less time than it takes me to get from Devon to Paddington!
Before children Mr Tin Box and I spent an indulgent few days in Paris. So, what would we recommend couples do during a short break in Paris?
Here’s some ideas based on a couple of things we enjoyed during our last visit and, importantly, what we’d like to add to our Paris itinerary next time.
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Be wowed at the Moulin Rouge
From experience I can tell you that if you book Moulin Rouge tickets you are in for a treat. This is certainly not a family show, but what it is is spectacular and pure escapism.
The big dance numbers are jaw dropping and after a few minutes you totally forget that there’s lots of boobs on show. As well as the show girls there’s comedy, acrobatics and elaborate costumes.
It was one of the highlights of our visit to Paris last time and I’d be tempted to go again. Show tickets and a bottle of champagne cost from £174 for two.
For more information visit the Moulin Rouge website.
Picnic at the Effiel Tower
We did the obligatory Eiffel Tower visit during our Paris city break in 2006. But aside from pictures at the top you can crank up the romance with a meal up the tower too.
It’s possible to have a posh picnic lunch in the 58 Tour Eiffel Restaurant where freshly prepared dishes are served up in individual baskets.
You can either queue for a table on the day of your visit or make a reservation at 12pm or 1.30pm. If you reserve you can avoid the queue for the lift. The restaurant also serves dinner. Lunch including lift passes costs €94 for two.
For more information visit the restaurant website.
Dine on the Seine
If you’re not a fan of heights then why indulge in a three course meal during a River Seine cruise? If you visit Paris at the right time of year you’ll be sailing past flood lit landmarks like Notre Dame , the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower at dusk.
Book a river cruise.
Go on a side car tour
If you’re a fan of Richard Ayoade’s Travel Man show on Channel 4 you may remember his 48 hours in Paris with Mel Giedroyc. As part of their itinerary they took a retro sidecar tour of the city, which looked like a lot of fun. Your guide, a ‘gentleman sider’ takes you on a ride around the city’s lesser known haunts and shares insights into Paris life.
It’s something that would be a bit awkward to fit into a family trip with two young children but is perfect for a parents only city break! Prices start at €89 for a 40 minute spin through to €649 for a tailored full day tour.
For more information visit the Retro Tour website.
Step into the Paris Catacombs
These bone lined tunnels under Paris were created in the late 17th Century as a solution to public health concerns around the city’s largest cemetery.
Moving remains to the former limestone quarries was the solution to overcrowding. This continued until 1814. It’s possible to descend 130 steps into the catacombs for a 45 minute tour.
This isn’t something I’d do with our girls but I think it would make a fascinating addition to a couples’ weekend break in Paris. Entrance with an audio guide costs €58 for two.
For more information visit the Paris Catacombs website.
How would you spend a Paris weekend break without kids?
Disclosure: this is a collaborative post with Local Paris Tours.
