When to go: April through June, and September through early November. While the weather is mild year-round, the rainy season varies by region and runs from mid-November through February; stay away during July and August unless you want to deal with huge crowds.
Guest activities: The City of Light boasts world-renowned boutiques, cozy streetside cafes, grand avenues, jazz clubs, galleries, and museums -- and let's not forget the Eiffel Tower. Since the Loire Valley is so close, you and your guests can also enjoy the country life: take a wine-tasting tour; pay a visit to the Chateau d'Usee, said to be the setting of the French fairy tale "Sleeping Beauty," in the village of Rigny-Usee; and take a taste (or two) of the beloved tarte tatin (upside-down apple tart).
Best spots for weddings:
Four Seasons Hotel George V, Paris Luxury is present here in spades (the event planning staff knows who all the best vendors in the city are, while the concierge is there to help your guests). The hotel's central location (blocks from the Champs-Elysees, within eyesight of the Eiffel Tower) is perfect for a chic old-school city celebration with a tres Francais flair.Chateau de Marcay, Loire Valley This fifteenth-century fortress, surrounded by its own vineyard, is perched at the top of a slope overlooking the village. The rooms are done in a French provincial style, many under a network of rough wooden ceiling beams. And the restaurant is renowned for its gourmet cuisine, guaranteeing a sumptuous wedding day feast.
