Paris has long been a favourite destination for couples from all over the world.

Its monuments, gardens, restaurants and unique atmosphere make it the ideal city for a romantic getaway. However, when you only have a weekend to spare, it can sometimes be difficult to know where to start.

Situated between the Madeleine and the Opéra Garnier, the Relais Madeleine offers an ideal base from which to explore the capital without having to travel too far.

Here’s our itinerary to make the most of 48 hours in Paris as a couple.

Day 1: exploring the heart of Paris

A gentle arrival in the Madeleine neighbourhood

Once you’ve settled in at the Relais Madeleine, take some time to explore the immediate surroundings of the hotel.

The neighbourhood is home to some of the most beautiful symbols of elegant Paris: Haussmann-style façades, sophisticated boutiques, historic cafés and major Parisian institutions.

It’s just a few minutes’ walk to the Place de la Madeleine, the Opéra Garnier or the famous department stores on Boulevard Haussmann.

It’s a great way to get your bearings before your stay begins.

A stroll to Place Vendôme

Place Vendôme is within easy walking distance of the hotel.

With its perfectly symmetrical architecture, elegant façades and jewellery houses, it epitomises one of the most iconic facets of Parisian luxury.

Even if you’re not planning to go shopping, the walk is well worth the detour.

Take the time to wander through the neighbouring streets before continuing your exploration of central Paris.

The Tuileries and the banks of the Seine

From Place Vendôme, it takes just a few minutes to reach the Tuileries Gardens.

Its paths, ponds and views provide the perfect setting for a stroll for two.

As you continue your stroll, you’ll naturally reach the banks of the Seine.

Depending on the season, you can simply enjoy the view or extend your walk to the Louvre, the Pont des Arts or the Place de la Concorde.

The advantage of this route is its simplicity: no transport is needed.

Dinner in the neighbourhood

The Madeleine neighbourhood is home to many venues popular with couples.

From Parisian brasseries to fine-dining restaurants and more intimate eateries, there’s something to suit everyone’s taste.

We generally recommend booking in advance, particularly at weekends and during peak tourist seasons.

After dinner, the illuminated streets of central Paris offer another lovely opportunity to extend the evening.

Paris by night

The capital takes on a different atmosphere once night falls.

The illuminated Opéra Garnier, the neighbourhood’s elegant shop windows, the historic façades and the quieter streets create a particularly pleasant setting for a stroll for two.

This is often one of the moments visitors remember most fondly from their stay.

Day 2: relaxation, culture and the Parisian art of living

Waking up at the Relais Madeleine

The second day gets off to a more leisurely start.

After breakfast, make the most of the more leisurely pace of the morning to plan the rest of your itinerary.

One of the advantages of staying in the Madeleine neighbourhood is being able to tailor everything to your mood at the time.

There’s no need to rush from one attraction to the next.

A cultural tour tailored to your preferences

Several must-see attractions are within easy reach of the hotel.

Among the most popular are:

• The Louvre
• The Musée d’Orsay
• The Opéra Garnier
• The Musée de l’Orangerie

Rather than trying to see everything, we often recommend focusing on a single visit so that you can make the most of the experience.

Paris is best explored at a leisurely pace rather than in a rush.

A shopping break in the department stores

Galeries Lafayette and Printemps are just a few minutes’ walk from the Relais Madeleine.

Even for travellers who aren’t planning to make any major purchases, these department stores are well worth a visit.

Their panoramic terraces offer magnificent views over the rooftops of Paris.

It’s also an opportunity to discover the major French and international fashion houses that contribute to the capital’s global reputation.

A wellness break before you leave

Before leaving Paris, treat yourself to one last moment of relaxation.

The wellness area at the Relais Madeleine is the perfect place to wind down after two busy days.

A few moments in the sauna provide a pleasant transition before returning to reality.

A simple way to round off your stay on a more peaceful note.

Why choose the Madeleine neighbourhood for a weekend for two?

On a short break, the hotel’s location is key.

The Madeleine district puts you within walking distance of many of Paris’s iconic landmarks, whilst offering an elegant and pleasant environment in which to stay.

Less time spent travelling means more time to enjoy the city, strolls, restaurants and moments spent together.

Whether it’s your first time in Paris or a regular romantic getaway, the Relais Madeleine is the ideal base from which to explore the capital at your own pace.