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Get inspired to treat your partner or spouse to a memorable vacation you’ll remember for years to come in one of these romantic destinations in Europe, great for romantic weekend getaways or an ideal couple’s trip for any occasion.
Most Romantic Destinations in Europe
1 – Paris
When you think about romantic destinations, Paris is very likely to be among the top three places to come to mind, and for good reason. The French capital is one of the most popular places for marriage proposals, even better if in front of a glittering Eiffel Tower. Although it may be cliché, there is no doubt that Paris is among the most romantic place you could visit with your loved one.
If you want to plan a romantic holiday in Paris, make sure to include a visit to the top of the Eiffel Tower, possibly by night, a romantic candlelit dinner in the fancy 6th arrondissement, a boat ride on the Seine, and a walk around the artistic neighborhood of Montmartre.
2 – Venice
Italy is full of romantic places to visit, and Venice is certainly one of them. From strolling along narrow alleys and across little canals to having dinner with amazing views, Venice offers many opportunities for a romantic trip.
The highlight of the perfect romantic trip to Venice is, of course, the gondola ride. There is no better way to explore the city than sitting on a gondola and slowly drifting along the canals and under the bridges while marveling at the stunning buildings.
Don’t forget to have an aperitivo with a canal view, admire the Bridge of Sighs, and wonder at the magnificence of Piazza San Marco.
3 – Rome
The Italian capital city doesn’t fall short by any means when it comes to romantic destinations in Europe. Rome is full of many romantic corners, from cute cobblestones alleys and gorgeous fountains in Monti or Trastevere to beautiful squares and stunning buildings.
The Tiber River reflecting the city lights by night is a romantic sight, even more so during warm summer nights when you can walk along the river and eat at the pop-up riverside restaurants.
At sunset, find a rooftop terrace with a view for an aperitivo. When the night falls, explore the area around the Colosseum and the historical center. Nothing beats a late-night walk among Roman ruins and the gorgeous squares emptied of the crowds of tourists.
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4 – Bruges
This little fairy tale city in Belgium is perfect if you’re looking for a romantic escape far from the crowds of big capital cities. Bruges is just one hour away from Bruxelles, so it’s perfect even for a day trip.
The little canals, cute houses, and gorgeous flowers adorning the bridges and streets make this town look like a real-life painting. Whether you prefer walking around the cobblestone streets in the old medieval center or taking a boat tour along the canals, Bruges is an idyllic destination in Europe.
Make sure not to miss the Belfry Tower, the chocolate shops, the Lake of Love, and the Lovers’ Bridge. Legend has it that if you cross over the bridge and kiss your beloved, your love will be eternal.
5 – Florence
If the charm of Italy continues to capture your imagination, head to Florence, the city of arts, to be amazed by its stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and charming squares. While impressive art collections and amazing museums are the highlights of Florence, you’ll find the Italian city to be a very romantic place.
Walk on the picturesque Ponte Vecchio, relax in the gorgeous Boboli Gardens, and watch the sunset from Piazzale Michelangelo. The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore is one of the most beautiful in Italy, and nearby Giotto’s Bell Tower will reward you with an unforgettable view of the city.
And since you’re in Italy, don’t forget to book a romantic dinner at one of the thousands of restaurants serving delicious food.
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6 – Santorini
When you think of Santorini, one picture likely comes to mind: watching a beautiful sunset from a terrace in Oia overlooking the white houses lit by the golden light. Hence, it’s pretty clear why Santorini is a popular destination for weddings and honeymoons.
However, there’s much more to do in Santorini aside from watching the sunset from the many viewpoints on the island. Take a boat tour in the Aegean Sea, go for a walk with breathtaking coastal views from Oia to Fira, take romantic photos with the blue dome churches, relax on one of the beautiful beaches, and have a romantic dinner with a sea view.
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7 – Prague
The capital city of the Czech Republic is packed with things to do and see on a romantic trip. The historical center is filled with impressive buildings, gorgeous squares, and some of the most beautiful churches in Europe.
Go on a cruise along the Vltava River, watch the swans from the backyard of Kafka Museum, explore the Jewish neighborhood, and watch the Astronomical Clock strike the hour. The area surrounding Prague Castle has some amazing views over the city, along with several places worth visiting, like the Waldstein Palace, St. Vitus Cathedral, and the beautiful art museum Šternberský Palace.
In the evening, stroll along the river and cross the iconic Charles Bridge and the Love Lock Bridge. If you want to visit unique museums, check out the Sex Machines Museum and the Illusion Art Museum.
8 – Positano
Positano simply couldn’t be left out of the list of romantic places in Italy. The seaside town on the Amalfi Coast, known for its dramatic cliffs covered in colorful houses, is a paradise for couples looking for a holiday spot by the sea.
Positano offers an endless choice of amazing restaurants with beautiful views, perfect for romantic lunches and dinners. In between meals, explore the narrow alleys and stairways, enjoy the views from different angles, have a refreshing lemon granita or gelato, and relax on the beach.
While summer is great for a romantic trip to Positano, the town is gorgeous year-round. During the low season, you can easily find a room or apartment with impressive views at a fraction of the summer prices.
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9 – Vienna
Austria’s elegant and stylish capital had to make it on this list of romantic places in Europe. Boasting some of the most beautiful architecture in Europe, Vienna to this day still maintains the magnificent appearance synonymous with the Habsburg monarchy.
Explore the beautiful castle and gardens of Schloss Schönbrunn and go see Klimt’s most famous painting, The Kiss, at Belvedere Castle. Don’t forget to stop for a sweet break with a delicious Sachertorte at Sacher Café and go on an evening sightseeing cruise on the Danube.
If you’re up for the challenge, take a waltz lesson, the romantic dance that became fashionable in Vienna at the end of the 18th century.
10 – Copenhagen
Northern Europe may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking about romantic places, but Denmark’s capital has a certain charm that makes it a great choice for a trip with your loved one.
A must-do on the list of things to do as a couple in Copenhagen, be sure to take a cruise along the picturesque canals, followed by a walk around the gardens of Rosenborg Castle.
If you’re visiting during the colder months, get cozy in a café to experience the “hygge” feeling of enjoying life’s simple pleasures. If the weather is pleasant, explore Copenhagen by bike, the best means of transportation in the city.
Your trip to the Danish capital would not be complete without a day at the amusement park Tivoli Gardens. Enjoy the many attractions, have a coffee, enjoy Danish food for dinner, and walk around the flower gardens.
11 – Lisbon
The lively Portuguese capital is another city that can be very romantic if you choose the right activities. A must is a dinner with a Fado music show in the picturesque neighborhood of Alfama. The area is also ideal for beautiful views over Lisbon’s rooftops and Tejo River, hip brunch spots, and iconic views of the historical tram 28.
Another nice spot for a romantic dinner is the opposite bank of the Tejo, lined with waterfront restaurants boasting amazing views over the city and the iconic Ponte 25 do Abril.
Just outside Lisbon, you must pay a visit to the picturesque and colorful Palacio da Pena in the charming town of Sintra. The town has many other amazing palaces worth visiting, like Quinta da Regaleira and Monserrate Palace.
12 – Budapest
Budapest, one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, has a very romantic side waiting to be discovered. Divided by the Danube River, the two halves of the Hungarian capital, Buda and Pest, offer many opportunities for romantic activities.
Check out the best views in town from the towers and arches of the Fisherman’s Bastion, relax in the lovely gardens of Margaret Island, and dine by the Danube River at one of the many boat restaurants.
In the evening, enjoy a pleasant walk along the river and across the Chain Bridge and watch the city lights reflect in the Danube. Finally, no trip to Budapest would be complete without a few hours of relaxation in the thermal pools at Széchenyi Thermal Bath.
13 – Ljubljana
The name of this city alone is enough to make you think about romance. Ljubljana means “the beloved,” but it isn’t just the name that makes it a romantic destination. The picturesque town features a hilltop castle offering impressive views of the city from above and a lovely old town.
The Ljubljanica river, with its picturesque bridges, contributes to the romantic atmosphere of the city. You can take a cruise on the river or simply walk along it while exploring the historical center.
If you have extra time, catch a train and go to Bled, a beautiful town just one hour from Ljubljana featuring a picture-perfect lake and lovely paths to walk and hike all around it.
14 – Hallstatt
This gorgeous Alpine village in Austria is undoubtedly one of the most charming places you can visit in Europe. Whether you visit in winter or summer, the postcard village will make you fall in love.
Enjoy the wonderful view of the lake with swans gliding along the rippling waters, rent a rowboat for even better views of the village and mountains surrounding it, and have lunch or dinner at one of the many lakeside restaurants.
For the best views of the lake, go to nearby Obertraun and take the Dachstein Krippenstein cable car to Nature Park Schönbergalm. If you’re up for a hike, check out the 5 Fingers Observation deck, featuring five platforms that extend into the void at a breathtaking 500 meters drop.
15 – Barcelona
Couples can find plenty of things to do in Barcelona. The Catalan city is filled with the beautiful architecture of Antoni Gaudi, like the colorful Park Guell, the peculiar Casa Batlló, and the splendid Casa Milà, also known as La Pedrera.
To spend a romantic day in Barcelona, start by wandering around the distinctive Barri Gòtic, let your senses be awakened by the smells and colors of Mercat de La Boqueria, stroll along La Rambla, and enjoy the beach at Barceloneta.
Before sunset, head to Montjuic Castle for a gorgeous view of the city. Later in the evening, enjoy the stunning music and lights show at the Font Magica in Plaza de España. End the day with Spanish food for dinner at a restaurant in the lovely Gracia neighborhood.
16 – Porto
It’s probably the Douro River slowly flowing in between Porto and Vila Nova de Gaia and turning to gold in the sunset light that makes this one of the most romantic places in Europe. With the impressive Dom Luis I Bridge, the area along the river is the perfect spot for a romantic evening.
Have dinner on the riverbank below the bridge, go for port wine tasting at one of the many cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia, and watch the sunset from Mosteiro da Serra do Pilar. For some more beautiful views of the river, visit the lush Jardins do Palácio de Cristal.
As you walk around the city center, check out the beautiful azulejos adorning buildings and churches, and don’t forget to pay a visit to the gorgeous bookstore Livraria Lello and take a picture of the iconic staircase.
Read more: Best Things to Do in Porto
17 – Lake Como
At the foot of the Alps, Lake Como is one of the most picturesque lakes in Italy, lined with dozens of pretty little villages. While the main city on the lake is Como, it is worth visiting some of the surrounding towns and villages, including Bellagio, Lecco, Varenna, and Menaggio.
The best way to see as much of the area as possible is to go on a boat tour of Lake Como. Book a private tour for a more intimate and romantic experience and admire the villages, luxurious villas, and beautiful nature all around the lake.
18 – Cappadoccia
Imagine a hot air balloon ride at sunset while sipping a glass of champagne with your loved one. This picture represents the romantic essence of Cappadoccia, but there is much more to do in this beautiful region of Turkey.
Do not miss the sunset from Red Rose Valley, a walk around the peculiar Love Valley with the phallic-looking rocks, and dinner on a rooftop restaurant with a sunset view. Also, make sure to check out the colorful carpet stores and stop for coffee or tea at a traditional Turkish café.
If you can’t make the hot air balloon ride, find a spot to watch them take off at sunrise. It will still be a stunning and romantic experience for the two of you to enjoy together.
Most Romantic Destinations in Europe Summary
Europe has so much beauty, history, and adventure to offer, it’s no surprise so many regions, towns, and cities are perfect for a romantic escape with your nearest and dearest.
Whether you love to step back in time and immerse yourself in the history and architecture of various places, bask in the glorious weather and enjoy some of the continent’s boundless natural beauty, or enjoy dinner and wine at a cozy cafe straight out of a romcom, Europe really does have it all, and then some.
These 18 gorgeous destinations are just the tip of a Europe-shaped iceberg but are an amazing place to start if you want to treat a loved one to a classic European escape full of great food and drink, stunning locations, and charm by the bucket load.
Wherever your next trip takes you, we hope it creates some wonderful memories that will stay with you for a lifetime.
Looking to book a Romantic getaway?
Use our resources to help you book your next romantic escape with your partner or spouse.
- Skyscanner to find great deals on flights
- Booking.com or Agoda to find a comfortable hotel
- Rentalcars.com for trips into the countryside
- Safety Wing for insurance
- GetYourGuide for tours and activities
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Contributor: Roxana Fanaru is a Romanian content writer, journalist, and avid traveler, who has written for various publications in the lifestyle and travel niches.
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