Where to Honeymoon in Europe: 23 Dreamy Honeymoon Destinations (2023)

Why it’s perfect for a honeymoon: The Faroe Islands is an amazing honeymoon destination because it truly feels like an escape. It’s such a remote part of the world and it’s easy to just totally focus on soaking up time with your new spouse. Plus, the cooler weather is a great excuse to snuggle up together.

Recommended activities: I highly recommend getting outside. The Faroe Islands is a haven for nature-lovers. The landscapes here are unparalleled. There are mountains, rugged coastlines, inlets, and stellar waterfalls. Also, there are beautiful seaside villages that are beautiful to stroll through. Don’t forget to check out the sod-roofed homes.

Recommended hotel: Although we stayed in a super cozy and isolated Airbnb, we heard amazing things about Havgrim Seaside Hotel in the most popular town of Tórshavn.

Tuscany, Italy 

Italy is certainly one of the #1 honeymoon spots in Europe. Tuscany may be one region that has a special pull. Dan of Honeymoon Always shares his tips for an Italian honeymoon.

Why it’s perfect for a honeymoon: After a potentially exhausting wedding, it is time to unwind and relax. Tuscany makes for an amazing honeymoon destination where you can relax and enjoy the picturesque countryside, tour a few vineyards and eat lots of amazing food.

Recommended activities: Head to Florence to see art together, like The David at the Accademia Gallery, visit beautiful cathedrals like Basilica di Santa Croce where Galileo and Michelangelo are buried, buy some jewelry at Ponte Vecchio and watch the sunset over the city from Piazzale Michelangelo. In San Gimignano, you can tour the historic city, go for a horseback ride through olive trees and vineyards and stay at a cozy bed and breakfast. There are several small towns in Tuscany worth exploring and are easy to fit into a day trip wandering the city together.

Recommended hotel: Villino Fiorentino for a bed and breakfast in Florence. Il Vicario for a bed and breakfast in the countryside outside San Gimignano.

Black Forest, Germany 

If your Europe honeymoon ideas involve fairytale scenery and quaint villages, you’ll want to consider Germany’s Black Forest.  Sabrina from Moon & Honey Travel will tell you exactly where to visit. 

Why it’s perfect for a honeymoon: Many believe that the Brothers Grimm fairy tales were inspired by the dark and sinister conifer forests of the Black Forest. So, if you’re looking for fairy-tale honeymoon destinations, this region in Baden-Württemberg is perfect.

Recommended activities: Explore the storybook towns of Schiltach, Calw, Breisach, and Gengenbach. Next, head to the grand spa town of Baden-Baden for a wonderful finale to your Europe honeymoon. Here, you can bathe in the mineral-rich waters of Friedrichsbad and Caracalla Spa. After enjoying the town’s thermal spas, head to the family-run restaurant Zum Alde Gott for dinner.

Recommended hotel: Belle Epoque

Portugal

Daryl & Mindi of 2foodtrippers think the country Portugal has the perfect blend of food and scenery to make for an ideal honeymoon.

Why it’s perfect for a honeymoon: Portugal is an ideal honeymoon destination for couples looking for a romantic travel experience filled with great scenery and tasty food. We say this with confidence after spending our magical honeymoon in the Iberian country back in 2007. The country captured us with its many charms – especially secluded beaches and port houses.

Recommended activities: Honeymooners in Portugal can spend their days exploring extensive coastline in the Algarve or wandering through charming cities like Lisbon and Porto. However, nights are equally exciting when filled with Portuguese food, local wine, and Fado music.

Recommended hotel: Hotels in Portugal run the gamut to humble accommodations to five-star hotels. For a special treat, we recommend staying at one of the country’s 34 historic Pousadas. Each luxurious Pousada has a unique history and provides a unique hotel experience.

Svalbard, Norway 

The best honeymoon destination just might be way, way up north. Halef & Michael from The Round the World Guys tell us all about Svalbard.

Why it’s perfect for a honeymoon: If you are in the market for an “adventure” honeymoon, consider a visit to the Arctic Circle. While it is not a conventional honeymoon in Europe destination, it surprisingly offers so much that can be very enjoyable for newlywed couples.

Recommended activities: Svalbard houses the northernmost human inhabitants in the world, and its exotic landscape is surreal. The capital, Longyearbyen, is a great starting point to arrange different activities. Anything from hiking adventures, day trips to the abandoned Soviet mining town of Pyramiden, and dog-sledding in the winter time.

Longyearbyen itself is a great place to hang out. There are several great places to stay in Svalbard and great restaurants to choose from. Every single one of them are very cozy – cozy communal places with big pillows, blankets and fireplaces, and big windows. After all, if its cold outside, many visitors choose to stay indoors at their cozy hotels.

Recommended hotel: One of the best places to stay for couples is the Radisson Blu Polar Hotel, which is famous for its hot tub with a magnificent view. If you are honeymooning in Svalbard, this is the perfect spot for a great Instagram wedding portrait

Paris 

The City of Lights and City of Paris consistently ranks among the world’s top honeymoon destinations. Kate of Our Escape Clause has some great ideas on what to do in this magical city. 

Why it’s perfect for a honeymoon: It’s hard to imagine a city more perfect for a honeymoon destination than the literal city of love! From the beautiful Seine to the stunning architecture to the endless cafes, delicious food, and iconic viewpoints, there is no shortage of romantic ways to experience Paris.

Recommended Activities: While you’re on your Paris honeymoon, be sure to stroll hand-in-hand through the Louvre, to sneak a kiss among the walkways in the Luxembourg Gardens, to visit cozy cafes in Montmartre, to admire the view of the Paris skyline from the top of Notre Dame or the Arc de Triomphe, and to watch the sunset over the Eiffel Tower in the Trocadero Gardens.

Couples inclined toward the kitchen may want to stretch their culinary skills with a macaron or croissant baking class, nightlife lovers will want to take in a burlesque show, and museum lovers don’t need to stop at the Louvre–consider also visiting the Musee Rodin, Musee d’Orsay, and the Orangerie, just to name a few!

Recommend hotel: For a Paris honeymoon hotel that won’t break the bank (all the more money to spend on tasty food and unforgettable experiences!), consider Le Clos Medicis. Though the rooms are fairly small, as is typical of Paris, the lobby is breathtakingly beautiful and the location–just a 5-minute walk from the Luxembourg Gardens–is absolutely unbeatable.

PS: During your Paris honeymoon, sign up for a couples photoshoot for the ultimate souvenir.

Barcelona 

Vicki of Vicki Viaja talks all about what makes Barcelona so lovely, and it’s definitely inspiring me to book a trip.

Why it’s perfect for a honeymoon: Barcelona is full of beautiful architecture and narrow Gothic-style streets. How can you not fall in love all over again when siping amazing vino while enjoying a great view after walking hand in hand at the beach between the palm trees enjoying Barcelona’s all-year sunny blue sky?

Recommended activities: There are so many romantic things to do in Barcelona on a Europe honeymoon. Barcelona is full of spots that make for a great walk, such as the beach or several gorgeous parks. There even is a park which has a labyrinth in its center in which you can get lost together (and hopefully find your way out again).

Another popular activity is a walk to the bunkers del Carmel. From there you have an amazing Panoramic view over the whole city. If you get here really early in the morning, you can even see a wonderful sunrise which makes the whole experience even better. Another thing you should definitely enjoy as a couple is its delicious food and wine. Catalonia is famous for its high-quality tasty wine and you can’t leave without trying a glass or two.

Recommended Hotel: Ciutat de Barcelona

Alsace, France

Ooh la la! Who’s ready for a honeymoon in France? Lena of Happily Ever Adventures shares tips from her own experience in the Alsace region.

Why it’s perfect for a honeymoon: While Paris is often touted as the city of love, we think the Alsace region in France is the perfect Europe honeymoon spot! The region is full of gorgeous countryside, magical castles, storybook small towns, stunning architecture, and romantic vineyards. You’ll feel like your honeymoon is straight out of a picturesque fairytale. Don’t worry, you won’t have to choose between Paris and Alsace. You can easily combine both in one magical European honeymoon!

Recommended activities: Spend some time exploring the various charming villages that make up the Alsace region and go for long romantic walks. Our favorites are Strasbourg, Colmar, and Riquewihr. In Colmar, be sure to take a boat ride through the storybook canals, complete with a picnic of cheese and champagne. Go on a wine tour of the beautiful vineyards of the region. Alsace is predominately known for dry and crisp white wines.

Visit the medieval castles in the region. Our favorites are Chateau du Haut-Koenigsbourg, Saint Ulrich, Girsberg, and Mont Sainte-Odile Abbey (an ancient monastery, but just as beautiful and worth visiting!). If you’re honeymooning in the winter, check out the magical Christmas markets the region is famous for. The best ones are in Strasbourg!

Recommended hotel: Le Parc Hotel Obernai & Spa

Cinque Terre, Italy 

Victoria of Follow Me Away will inspire you with one of the top destinations for a honeymoon in Europe: Cinque Terre, Italy.

Why it’s perfect for a honeymoon: Cinque Terre, located along Italy’s Ligurian Coast, is what honeymoon dreams are made from! If you are looking for one of the most unique, relaxing, and beautiful Europe honeymoon destinations, this is it! Cinque Terre is made up of five colorful towns located along the Ligurian Coast of Italy. This means that you have so many pretty places to explore during your honeymoon.

Recommended activities: Imagine sleeping in and exploring the beaches and nearby hikes to vineyards and overlooks by day and then dining al fresco by night with your new spouse.

There is no bad time of year to honeymoon in Cinque Terre. During the summer, the weather will be warmer, but you will be competing with other visitors for space on the beach. During the winter, the air will be cooler so you will be more likely to lounge on the beach in jeans and a sweater, but prices are cheaper and the towns will be devoid of other tourists. Planning your honeymoon to Cinque Terre can be done at any time of year, depending on your preferences, budget, and interests!

Recommended hotel: Rooms Elisabetta Carro is my suggested hotel because you are staying right in the thick of things with a fantastic view and easy beach access!

If you are looking for Where To Stay In Cinque Terre, keep in mind that there are accommodation options for each and every budget. Simply choose which town or towns you want to stay in and then choose your budget and you will find some wonderful options.

Budapest 

Toti & Alessia of Italian Trip Abroad share their tips on what to do and where to stay in romantic Budapest.

Why it’s perfect for a honeymoon: Love, explore, relax and repeat. It seems the perfect way to enjoy a romantic gateway or European honeymoon. Budapest is the essence of those three words in a unique city. It is really affordable and makes sense to spend as much as a week here. The light of the city and the monuments give this amazing eastern Europe location a romantic point of view.

Recommended activities: Budapest is even more romantic compared to Rome or Paris. It has not an Iconic monument that you can associate straight with it, but it has a lot of great landscapes, an ancient and interesting history. The view of the Parliament at night and the Fisherman’s Bastion on the other side of the Danube River will pay for the cost of this holiday.  Enjoy the Spa in Budapest, it is one of the best activities in the city.  I will bet everything that as soon you hear this word “Spa”, you will plan a trip to Budapest. The exchange rates (Budapest doesn’t use the Euro, although most of the shops accept this currency), will make your visit to the spa—and the many amenities as massages, oils, and therapy—even cheaper.

Recommended hotel: The Intercontinental Hotel in the Pest part of the city is best for Honeymooners. This 5-star hotel has a direct view of the river and of the Buda Castle on the top of the hill.

Amalfi Coast, Italy 

If you’re running out of Europe honeymoon destinations, Italy will always provide. Why not consider the Amalfi Coast? Victoria from Bridges and Balloons tells us why this area is so wonderful for couples.

Why it’s perfect for a honeymoon: The Amalfi Coast is one of the most romantic honeymoon destinations in Italy. It’s where the mountains meet the sea and colourful villages cascade down the cliffs. The drive along the coast is worth the visit alone, but to make the most of it all, stay for a while in some of the little towns and take a trip to Capri island.

Recommended activities: Visit Positano, one of the most picturesque towns on the coast, and Ravello, an elegant mountaintop village with fabulous views across the sea. Also take a boat trip to Capri, stopping at caves and grottos along the way. And for food, you’re spoilt for choice, which a plethora of romantic Italian and seafood restaurants with gorgeous coastal views.

Recommended hotel: Casa Angelina

Read Next: 8 Romantic Things to Do in Positano

Bulgarian Riviera 

Perhaps you’d like an Eastern Europe honeymoon. Bulgaria has some fantastic options, and Stephanie of Sofia Adventures thinks the coast is the place!

Why it’s perfect for a honeymoon: The Black Sea is not black, it’s actually vibrant greens and blues with rolling waves and sandy beaches. There are great Bulgarian resort hotels up and down the coast, so you can choose whether you’d rather be by the UNESCO city of Nessebar or the vibrant Varna. 

Recommended activities: Take a dip in the pink Lake Atanasovsko and cover yourself with the lake’s healing mud before washing it off in the Black Sea a few hundred meters away. 

Recommended hotel: Evrika Beach Club

Andalusia, Spain 

Why it’s perfect for a honeymoon: Andalusia is a honeymooners paradise. Its endless green fields where oranges and olive trees flourish, the fine sand beaches of some of its main cities, national parks worth visiting like Doñana, the Arab baths of cities such as Granada and Seville, its historical-architectural heritage, its particular music, its tapas bars, and above all its welcoming people make Andalusia a great destination for lovebirds.

Recommended activities: There is nothing better than taking an Andalusia road trip through some of its main cities. We recommend you to start in Malaga and continue along the coast to Tarifa – very windy and known by lovers of kitesurfing and windsurfing – and Cadiz, not without first admiring a sunset in the dunes of Tarifa or by Trafalgar’s lighthouse. Then, drive inland and spend two or three days in Seville, before leaving for Granada and its magnificent Sierra Nevada, with a stop in the romantic Ronda.

Recommended hotel: Alhambra Palace Hotel, Granada

London 

A big city with many charming spots, it should come as no surprise that there are a number of romantic activities in London. It’s definitely a wonderful place for a honeymoon in Europe. Leona of Wandermust Family tells us exactly why!

Why it’s perfect for a honeymoon: If you are looking for the best city on the continent for your Europe honeymoon in then for me there is only one place – London! London for me offers everything you need for romance, historic areas, great food, amazing luxury accommodation good nightlife and amazing activities!

Recommended activities: It is a city filled with some of the most varied and best cuisine. From some of the world’s best Michelin starred restaurants that to be are the perfect romantic date to some quirky and experiential dining options! Or for something traditionally British, why not spoil yourself with a British afternoon tea at one of London’s many luxury hotels? This is sure to be romantic as you get all dressed up for the occasion! Note: advance booking is essential for most afternoon teas in London.

But my favourite thing to do in London is simply walk the city! It is the perfect city for strolling and to me there is nothing more romantic than strolling around a city after dinner! Some of my favourite places to walk are along the river Thames, through historic maritime Greenwich and also through the entertainment filled Covent Garden piazza! There is no better city to get lost in than London!

If you think culture and romance go hand and hand why not have a date in one of London’s brilliant and often free museums! Or if museums are not your thing, London has one of the best theatre districts in the world! Treat yourself to a show, from the longest running show The Mousetrap to musicals to Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre – London has a varied and amazing theatre scene!

Recommended hotel: London is also filled with some of the most romantic hotels in the world such as the beautiful One Aldwych in Covent Garden or the stunning St Pancras Hotel! Whether you want historic charm or modern luxury London has the romantic accommodation for you!

Hallstatt, Austria 

Scott from Take Back Roads shares this beautiful description and detailed recommendations for one of Austria’s most picturesque honeymoon destinations. 

Destination: Hallstatt, Austria

Why it’s perfect for a honeymoon: Nestled in the heart of the Austrian Alps an hour east of Salzburg, the picturesque mountain village of Hallstatt sits on a narrow sliver of hilly terrain. Shoehorned between the towering mountains that surround it and the pristine waters of Lake Hallstatt, the 2,500 year-old village is now a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site. The narrow streets are lined with traditional wood-and-stucco alpine homes and family-owned and operated shops, boutiques, and restaurants. Instead of generic chain hotel rooms, visitors are housed in cozy centuries-old bed & breakfasts scattered throughout the village.

As a protected site, non-resident vehicles are completely prohibited (there is a paid parking lot about 100 yards outside of town), so the only methods of transportation through the tiny village is on foot or bicycle – thus, it truly feels like a magical trip back in time. Many restaurants offer intimate tables for mealtimes, and several also have breathtaking lakeside terraces! And of course… the views. There are no words to describe the mind-blowing mountain views throughout the village and its surroundings. What a wonderful honeymoon destination.

Recommended activities: There are plenty of romantic experiences to enjoy in Hallstatt on your honeymoon, such as renting a small motorboat to cruise around the lake or riding in a larger wooden gondola-style motorboat across the lake to the village of Obertraun. There are also paddle boats that look like the stunning white geese that populate the lake surface in summer.

You can spend hours strolling through the ancient lanes of the village, or ride the funicular up to explore the historic salt mines (and enjoy the insanely gorgeous panoramic view) on the top of the mountain. There’s an adorable central market square, lined with vendors, restaurants and cafes with outdoor seating, boutiques and shops, and a small fountain and plentiful benches for relaxing and taking it all in. And, of course, the aforementioned family-operated taverns, restaurants, cafes and even a brewpub.

Recommended hotel: Without question, the Braugasthof Lobisser is your best option. This 600 year old B&B and brewpub features ancient creaking wooden floors and beautiful inlaid wood paneling, with traditional Austrian decorations and photos everywhere. With approximately a dozen total rooms (about a third have large balconies) spread out on three floors, a breakfast room, a dining room & kitchen on the ground floor, and possibly the best lakeside beergarden-style terrace located across the lane, this hotel has everything you could possibly ask for … and is the most competitively priced option we could find (price to value of the amenities). The staff are friendly and helpful, the traditional Austrian foods & fresh-brewed beer are delicious, the free breakfast is hearty and well-prepared, and the views from the hotel balconies are incomprehensible.

INSIDER TIP: if you book far enough in advance, make sure to request room number 8. As the only room in the hotel with two balconies (one facing the lake and one facing the village), the views are otherworldly – and it’s the same price as the other balcony rooms!

Rome, Italy

When it comes to Europe’s honeymoon destinations, Rome has to be included on such a list! Cazzy from Dream Big, Travel Far shares her recommendations for one of Europe’s most well known well-loved cities. 

Why it’s perfect for a honeymoon: When we think of romance, we often think of Rome. Known as the city of romance, it’s no surprise that it’s a perfect Europe honeymoon destination. It’s a place that suits all types of couples. If you love authentic Italian food, fine wine, beautiful architecture, historic sights and a glass of Limoncello, then Rome is for you.

Recommended activities: Find quaint restaurants to dine in the evening, then wander in search of the cities best gelato spots. Throw a coin in the Trevi Fountain together and wish for everlasting love and rent a rowboat on the Borghese Lake and create your own romantic moment.

Recommended hotel: For a hotel stay to remember, opt for Villa Spalletti Trivelli, just 10 minutes from the Trevi Fountain for a wonderful stay.

Llubljana, Slovenia 

Despite it’s hard to pronounce name, the city of Llubljana offers plenty for romantic visitors to do. Emily of Wander-Lush provides an ideal itinerary below:

Why it’s perfect for a honeymoon: One of Europe’s most underrated capitals, petite Ljubljana oozes romance and nostalgia. Founded on a legendary dragon-slaying love saga, Slovenia’s biggest city features a pink baroque church as its center point, art nouveau architecture and cobbled streets, and a quixotic mix of continental European and Mediterranean cultures and cuisines.

An endless string of cafes and wine bars set along Ljubljana’s riverside promenade beckon visitors with their tables set out in the sun. Less than 2 hours away by car, Bled and its iconic lake provides one of the most romantic backdrops for outdoor activities in the region.

Recommended activities: Ljubljana is best explored on foot by crisscrossing the stone bridges and wandering the alleyways. Starting at the main plaza, follow your nose through the Central Market (a lively farmers’ market on weekends), popping into historic chapels and breaking every now and then for a glass of Slovenian wine and a pizza.

In Bled, walk or cycle around the lake, and ride out to the island in a traditional Pletna (a wooden boat reminiscent of Venice’s gondolas). There are a number of spas set along the lake’s shore—of if nature is more your scene, find seclusion in the canyons, caves and swimming holes in the area. Both Bled and Ljubljana have castles that offer magnificent views.

Recommended hotel: Antiq Palace Hotel & Spa (Ljubljana); Vila Bled Luxury Boutique Hotel (Bled).

Crete

Without a doubt, a Greek honeymoon would be an incredibly romantic experience. Allison of Sofia Adventures shares why Crete is an excellent choice.

 

Saariselka, Finland 

Don’t forget about Scandinavia when planning a honeymoon in Europe. Sara from Our Kind of Crazy describes Lapland, Finland so beautifully, I’m ready to go right now! 

Why it’s perfect for a honeymoon: If you’ve ever imagined the perfect winter honeymoon getaway, Saariselka, Finland is the place to go. It is the definition of “winter wonderland”, and is one of the best places you can go on your honeymoon. Saariselka is in Lapland, Finland which means it is a prime spot to catch the Northern Lights. You can rent a glass igloo cabin, and cozy up while watching the Auroras from the comfort of your room. If the Northern Lights aren’t one of the most incredible things to witness, there are several other activities you can do while on your honeymoon in Saariselka.

Recommended activities: The theme of this Europe honeymoon is “Winter Wonderland” so everything has to do with the snow. Cross country skiing, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, husky rides, and ice fishing are just a few activities they offer in Lapland. You can feed and hang out with reindeer, walk across frozen lakes, enjoy a drink at a bar made entirely of ice and snow, and of course chase the Northern Lights. It’s a winter honeymoon in Europe that can’t be beat!

Recommended hotel: The Northern Lights Village

READ NEXT:  Europe in Winter: 15 Snowy, Cozy, and Romantic Destinations to Visit

Provence, France 

Sophie of Solo Sophie shares why magical Provence is the perfect honeymooning destination in Europe. 

Why it’s perfect for a honeymoon: With its endless lavender fields, pretty-as-a-postcard villages, and salty seascapes, there is perhaps nowhere in France quite as lovely as Provence. For those looking for a special experience, there’s the chance to stay in French châteaux, experience unforgettable sunsets, and get lost in the wineries of the region.

Recommended activities: Whether you’re a foodie lover, history buff, or wish to head to the beach, Provence has all this and more. Some of the best things to do in Provence include head out on a road trip to see the lavender fields and centuries-old villages dotted around the landscape. With its butter-stone houses and impressionist past, the charming ‘city of a hundred fountains,’ Aix-en-Provence, while the town of Cassis is one of the most beautiful settlements to be found anywhere in the Mediterranean.

Recommended hotel: Château de Cassis

Read Next: 12 Perfectly Romantic Things to Do in Provence

Edinburgh, Scotland

Natasha of The World Pursuit talks about one of our favorite places:  Edinburgh, Scotland. It’s where we first met and remains one of our favorite cities in the entire world.

Why it’s perfect for a honeymoon: Scotland is a great place for a honeymoon in Europe and any trip there will likely start and end in Edinburgh. Although Edinburgh is the capital of Scotland and a big city it doesn’t feel like it. There aren’t high rises obstructing views, but instead old 15th-century buildings that are beautifully preserved and ready for exploration. Seriously walking around Edinburgh is like walking in a European fairytale.

Recommended activities: One of my favorite things to do is climb Climb Calton Hill. Calton Hill has the best views of Edinburgh, it’s centrally located and only a five minute walk up. This makes for an intimate viewpoint that is easy to reach. If it’s a beautiful day, our suggestion is to watch the sunset on the city from up here. I also recommend heading up the Scott Monument as it’s a beautiful piece of architecture and also provides stunning views.

Recommended hotel: Old Town Chambers. Old Town Chambers is a collection of luxury apartments in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town. The apartments are modern, spacious, comfortable, and definitely luxurious.