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When you think of the most romantic places in the world, without a doubt, the continent of Europe springs to mind. Home to iconic destinations like the City of Love itself (Paris), it’s so easy to see why Europe is a romantic dream. But what are the most romantic places in Europe? Where should couples looking for a romantic getaway or honeymoon in Europe go?
We’ve put together a collection of some of Europe’s most romantic destinations, plus resources for more information on each of these wonderful spots.
Ready to discover those destinations that will make your heart beat faster? We’ve got the list for you, filled with unique and enchanting destinations in Europe for romance and adventure. Here are the most romantic cities and regions across Europe for couples to get lost in together.
Most Romantic Places in Europe
London
Submitted by David Angel, Delve Into Europe
London is one of the most romantic cities in Europe, indeed the world. It’s a vast city with as much to see as many countries and plenty of romantic things to do.
A great place to start is with a walk along the Thames Path. The short walk between Lambeth Bridge, opposite the Houses of Parliament, and Westminster Bridge. It’s only a short distance further to the London Eye, which has superb views over the city, or continue to Waterloo Bridge, where the winter sunsets are sensational. A little further along the Thames Path, the Oxo Tower Bar, has an outstanding view across the river to St Paul’s Cathedral.
The suburb of Chelsea is another lovely romantic London spot. The busy King’s Road has many cafes where one can watch the world go by, and some gorgeous streets with brightly painted houses a short walk away. Cheyne Walk is one of the most beautiful streets in London, where everyone from King Henry VIII to three of the Rolling Stones has lived.
The houses are among the grandest in London, and full of blue plaques commemorating the famous names who resided there. The Albert Bridge, across the street from there, is the most beautiful in London. It looks at its best at night, with its twinkling lights reflected in the Thames.
It’s also worth planning a London afternoon tea in advance – some of the best hotels require reservations. The likes of the Savoy, the Ritz and Claridge’s put on an amazing spread with finger sandwiches and cakes. It’s a classic London tradition, not to be missed.
Read Next: 15 Romantic Things to Do in London
Kiev
Contributed by Suzanne, Meandering Wild
Kyiv (or Kiev as the direct transliteration from Russian) is the capital city of Ukraine, a large country in Eastern Europe. The city is small enough to walk around in a few days and is full of history. The river Dnieper runs through the centre of the city which is downstream from Chernobyl and the abandoned city of Pripyat.
The whole city is energized and developing and has a modern vibe with a hint to its past with romantic corners and beautiful architecture.
One of the best ways to explore the city is to take the funicular railway from the main area of the city to St Michael’s Golden-Domed Monastery. This lives up to its name with golden domes against a vivid blue building. In the small park between the railway and the monastery you will find red squirrels racing around and looking for attention, a good place to pause before setting off.
It is just a short walk to the beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Site of St Sophia’s Cathedral with its green and golden domes and the nearby vivid green and dominating St Andrew’s Church. From the church grounds, there are panoramic views across the whole city allowing you to see how many domed churches there are across the skyline.
From St Andrews Church, Vozdvyzhens’ka Street is a gentle wander down a cobbled street with cafes and restaurants and small street vendors. A perfect place to spend time with the one you love.
Hotel Staro is a decadent location to stay in the quieter end of the city. It is surrounded by small galleries and little cafes. The rooms are ornate with high ceilings and heavy furniture and the breakfasts are good.
This city can be visited year-round although spring is the best. The winters are cold and harsh and the summers can be very warm.
Sibiu
Submitted by Corina Preda, Another Milestone
When you want to choose a destination for a romantic escape with your better half, Romania is not the first country you think of. But the truth is that Romania has medieval cities that seem excellent sceneries for a romantic getaway. And one of these cities is Sibiu.
Located at the border of Transylvania, in the heart of Romania, the city is 300 kilometers away from Bucharest. The charm of Sibiu is given by its cobblestone streets, colorful, old buildings and intimate caffes. If you plan a romantic dinner, you can choose one of the modern restaurants with delicious International and Romanian dishes. And for a romantic stay, try The Council hotel.
On a long walk in the city centre you will discover interesting places to visit. One of the most romantic spots in Sibiu is the Stairs passage. Part of the old fortification system of the city, the Stairs passage has an amazing glow during sunset, especially in summer. After walking through this passage and crossing the Huet piazza, another place for couples will be revealed in front of you: Liars’ Bridge. This important attraction in Sibiu took its name from the lovers that swear eternal love on it. Many of these vows are broken and the bridge became a symbol of them.
Sibiu has other interesting attractions for couples and not only, so next time when you choose your romantic place, don’t forget about it!
Lisbon
Submitted by Cindy Baker, Travel Bliss Now
Lisbon seems as though it was designed to be one of the most romantic cities in Europe and perhaps one of the top honeymoon destinations as well.
Built on seven hills, Lisbon is a city of dreamy miradouros or viewpoints. Start with the panoramic view from the top of the Elevador de Santa Justa, the city’s wrought-iron iron vertical street lift. Stroll up to the hilltop Miradouro de Santa Luzia for a picnic under a bougainvillea-draped trellis overlooking the Tagus River and Alfama, Lisbon’s oldest neighborhood.
From there, wander hand-in-hand through the twisting, cobblestone streets as you spot colorful tiles and street art. Above Alfama, on the highest hill in the city, visit São Jorge Castle and savour a sunset glass of wine from the mobile kiosks known as “Wine with a View”.
Snuggle up at the boutique hotel, the Memmo Alfama, which has cozy rooms facing the river and a rooftop terrace with city views that will make you melt. Lisbon is a year-round destination, but the best time of year to enjoy that terrace is spring or fall to avoid the summer heat and festival crowds.
Read Next: Our guide to the most romantic things to do in Lisbon as well as 7 Romantic Things to Do in Porto
Tbilisi
Contributed by Margherita Ragg, The Crowded Planet
Florence
Read Next: The most romantic things to do in Tuscany | 10 Utterly Romantic Things to Do in Florence
Positano
Submitted by Jackie Gately from Enjoy Travel Life
Nestled along the turquoise banks of Italy’s soaring Amalfi Coast, it’s no wonder Positano is a hot spot for romantic interludes and honeymooners. In fact, it’s hard not to get caught up in a moment, as Mediterranean breezes tickle your sun-kissed skin and the limoncello sweetens your lips. It’s one of the most romantic European destinations for couples.
Each turn of a leisurely stroll through this enchanting town carved into the mountainside showcases breathtaking views of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Shops featuring the handiwork of local artisans dot the narrow descent; you’ll find chic linen beach dresses, handmade leather sandals, colorful pottery, and more.
Along the way, watch for the iconic dome of The Church of Santa Maria Assunta, aglow with multi-colored majolica tiles.
At the base of Positano, two black-pebble beaches hug the shore. The first and more popular beach is Grande Spiaggia di Positano. It welcomes guests with lounge chairs, boutiques, and waterfront restaurants perfect for refreshing afternoon drinks. Here, you can also charter a private boat tour to the island of Capri.
Or instead slip away to the secluded Spiaggia di Fornillo. Simply pass through the romantic promenade to escape the crowds.
For an elegant overnight, consider booking the suite at Hotel Villa Gabrisa. Once an ancient villa in the historic center of Positano, this charming hotel offers fine dining, a wine bar and cafe, plus a complimentary continental breakfast with your reservation. The spacious suite affords luxury accommodations and a large terrace with a sea view—the perfect setting for a secluded tryst with room service.
Read Next: 8 Romantic Things to Do in Positano
Seville
Contributed by Caroline Keyzor, CK Travels
Seville is located in the southern region of Andalusia in Spain and is the perfect all year round destination for a romantic break with that someone special. Seville is a compact and relaxed riverside city with beautiful Moorish architecture, UNESCO heritage sites, excellent wining and dining and many gorgeous landscaped parks.
There are so many romantic things to do in Seville – start off your day by taking a stroll through the labyrinth of charming narrow streets and alleys of the El Barrio de Santa Cruz neighbourhood. You’ll discover many intimate squares, huge orange trees and some of Seville’s most gorgeous buildings.
Next head over to Plaza de España to admire the exquisite tile work and grand architecture, then hire a rowboat for a romantic ride around the square. Plaza de España is also beautifully lit up at night if you want to return for a romantic midnight stroll.
End your perfect day with a cosy and romantic candlelit dinner at one of Seville’s many historic tapas bars for a glass of Spanish wine and some fresh and delicious seafood. Follow up dinner with an intimate traditional flamenco show at either Casa del Flamenco or Casa de la Memoria and if you still have energy afterwards, head to Hotel Doña Maria‘s rooftop bar for a cocktail with one with the best views of the city and the Cathedral lit up at night.
See also:
Budapest
Submitted by Paula and Charles, Expert Abroad
Your first glimpse of the turreted fortress of Fisherman’s Bastian high on the hill on the Buda side of the city will have you feeling like you have walked into a fairy tale. You will immediately know you have chosen the right spot for your romantic vacation.
One of the most romantic things to do in Budapest is to take a sunset stroll along the Danube, as the city changes from day to night, and the lights on the stunning Parliament building come on. Once you have snapped a romantic sunset selfie head to one of the city’s rooftop bars to drink in more of the view or take a river dinner cruise, the lights never get old.
When hunger strikes, Budapest is full of quirky and quality restaurants. One we loved was KönyvBár (Bookbar in English) which serves a changing menu inspired by books. To date they have covered everything from Fifty Shades to Harry Potter! The menu changes every two weeks so check and see if this week’s meal suits you. There are also a bunch of affordable Michelin star restaurants if you want to impress.
Finally, you really should pay a visit to one of the city’s thermal baths we recommend Gellért the pretty Art Nouveau designed complex. Budapest’s thermal pools are among the most popular in the world and as well as being relaxing the minerals contained in the water are said to provide lots of health benefits. Gellért offer indoor and outdoor mixed bath areas and couple massages too
Read next:
- 15 Incredibly Romantic Things to Do in Budapest
- 11 Romantic Things to Do in Vienna for Couples
Prague
Contributed by Dave Anderson, Jones Around the World
Yerevan
Submitted by Aram, Absolute Armenia
Looking for a fun, perhaps unexpected city break? One of the most romantic cities in Europe is definitely the capital of Armenia, Yerevan. The ancient city is 2802 years old and is known as “the pink city” because it is mostly built from pink volcanic stone called tuff. This illuminating tuff gives Yerevan a magical and romantic feeling from above or during certain hours of the day.
In addition to the pink tuff, Yerevan has cozy and sometimes hidden side cafes where couples can enjoy their time with each other.
In Armenia’s capital, there is even a park dedicated to couples called ‘Lovers Park’. You can head there and enjoy your time with your significant other in a beautiful and romantic environment surrounded by an artificial waterfall alongside a charming canal and several sculptures.
Other places that are romantic in Yerevan are the Cascades stairway, a large limestone construction that goes up an incline and the best place for couples to sit and gaze over the city at dusk. At the Cascades, you’ll find several cafes and romantic restaurants that locals love to get dressed up and enjoy in the evenings.
If you’re wanting to get out of the city and experience some of the lovely nature in Armenia, there are many wonderful day trips from Yerevan, such as Garni Temple or Lake Sevan, that will offer a new romantic setting
Azores
Submitted by Megan C. Starr
The Azores are easily one of the most romantic places to visit in Europe. The archipelago of nine islands sits in the middle of the Atlantic and is owned by Portugal, but they retain their rustic charm and beauty and are like no other place in Europe.
One of the main things that make the Azores the perfect romantic destination is that Azorean nature is some of the most beautiful on the planet. Between the natural hot springs and Jurassic ferns, a person can’t help but feel in love with their surroundings and the person that they travel to the islands with.
The Azores are known for being home to volcanoes, interesting cuisine like cozido das Furnas, and some of the world’s best whale watching. There are many tours in the Azores but some of the most popular are scuba diving, visiting the different sides of Sao Miguel, or going whale watching.
The best place to start your romantic journey through the Azores is in Sao Miguel… but be sure to explore the other islands like Pico and Terceira while you’re there. There are ferries connecting the islands during the high-season and inter-island flights at other times of the year. The Azores are destined to become one of Europe’s hottest destinations and you will see everyone there from honeymooners to solo travelers.
Rome
Submitted by Kate Storm, Our Escape Clause
Known as the Eternal City and positively bursting with everything from world-famous monuments to art museums to delightful cobblestone lanes perfect for wandering down hand-in-hand, there’s no doubt that Rome is one of the most romantic cities in Europe.
While exploring Rome with your beloved, be sure to make time for classics like touring the Colosseum, visiting the Vatican Museums (including the phenomenal Sistine Chapel), admiring the Pantheon and munching on gelato in Piazza Navona–but to really up the romance, ditch the crowds and explore the uncrowded side of Rome as well.
Small museums like the Palazzo Doria Pamphilj, the Galleria Spada, and the Villa Farnesina may not have the fame of, say, the Borghese Gallery–but the chance to avoid the crowds and linger among gorgeous art together without having to hurry on makes them incredibly romantic.
For a chance to steal a smooch while admiring the best views of Rome, consider heading to the top of the dome at St. Peter’s Basilica, the top of the Altar of the Fatherland, or the top of the Castel Sant’Angelo.
Rome is an incredibly romantic European city year-round, but you’ll likely enjoy your trip more if you avoid the hot, sticky summer months of July and August (though if you do make it to Rome then, know that there are plenty of beautiful beaches that make great day trips from Rome!).
If you’d like to have the Eternal City all to yourself, consider a winter trip–Rome boasts mild temperatures and a delightfully uncrowded environment during winter, making it an excellent destination for a Valentine’s Day getaway!
Read Next:
- 3 Days in Rome: A Perfect Itinerary for First-Timers
- 8 Incredibly Romantic Things to Do in Venice Italy
Paris
Contributed by Chris, Explore Now or Never
Paris is for lovers! Could there be a more romantic destination than Paris, France? It’s a global hot spot for anyone who loves French cuisine, art, and culture. As you wander the banks of the Seine and sip a glass of wine in a cozy café, the City of Lights will weave its spell over the two of you in no time.
Skip long lines at the Louvre for a more intimate experience sighing over Monet’s famous water lilies at the beloved Orangerie or tapestries at the Cluny Museum instead. Or gaze up at Rodin’s famous statue, The Thinker, in the lovely gardens of the Rodin Museum.
Looking for more ideas? Share a picnic just for two in one of the city’s dozens of verdant parks or a cafe au lait and pastry at Le Grenier á Pain. There are so many things to do in Paris. For a memorable stay that won’t break the bank, stay at Hotel Abbatial Saint Germain. It’s conveniently located in the Latin Quarter, just minutes from Ile de la Cité.
Read Next:
- 13 Romantic Things To Do in Paris for Couples
- 5 Days in Paris: An Itinerary Off the Beaten Path
Oxford
Submitted by Laura Hartley, What’s Hot?
St. Petersburg
Submitted by Yulia Dyukova, That’s What She Had
The cultural capital of Russia as its called by the locals, Saint Petersburg, is a less obvious destination when it comes to romantic vacations in Europe. And undeservedly so. With its hundreds of narrow canals, heavily decorated bridges, and pre-revolution era palaces, Saint Petersburg will charm you instantly.
Take a stroll down Nevsky prospect and marvel at beautiful architecture. A word of warning, sometimes what you think must be a palace is actually a supermarket (looking at you, Eliseevsky store). Spend some time on the water: take a boat tour of Neva River and most popular canals. Visit the gorgeous Orthodox churches of which there are over seventy in the city. But do make a special stop at the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood that you’ve probably seen a thousand times on pictures. It is even more awe-inspiring in real life.
At night, trying some great Russian food for dinner is a must. Instead of going to touristy canteens that feature balalaikas, shapka-ushanka, and vodka bottles as decorations, head to one of the modern Russian restaurants, like Banschiki. Romantic vibes and mind-blowing food with creative twists are guaranteed.
Lastly, if you are traveling to Saint Petersburg during summer months (which you should), stay up till late to experience the famous “white nights” and see the bridges open.
Provence
Contributed by Nadine Maffre, Le Long Weekend
With its blessed climate, charming hilltop villages, stunning coastal towns and penchant for lingering over long lunches, Provence is a romantic destination like no other. It’s no wonder why many couples choose the South of France to get wed, honeymoon, or even plan a surprise proposal.
Days can be spent simply enjoying the surroundings, sipping on the region’s renowned rosé, or swimming at one of the most idyllic beaches you’ve ever laid eyes on. More active couples will enjoy the walking trails through the calanques or climbing up Cezanne’s beloved Mont Sainte–Victoire. Or hop on your bike and discover the winding roads connecting the bucolic villages of the Luberon. Culture aficionados will be in their element browsing the museums and galleries in the ancient cities of Aix-en-Provence or Avignon.
And for an authentic slice of Mediterranean life, head straight to Marseille.
For balmy days and cool nights, visit in Spring and enjoy the blossoming landscapes and uncrowded streets. And for a romantic stay in an idyllic setting book a room at La Bastide de Gordes.
Moscow
Submitted by Lindsey Puls, Have Clothes, Will Travel
Moscow, Russia doesn’t always bring to mind images of “romance.” However, don’t let the stereotypes fool you – Moscow can be an especially romantic destination for adventurous couples!
While the weather is more comfortable during the summer months in Moscow, visiting Moscow in winter (especially during the Christmas holidays) is absolutely magical and looks as though the city were plucked straight from a fairytale. There are beautiful Christmas lights and markets that are perfect for grabbing a mulled wine or hot chocolate and walking through hand in hand with your partner. (The most famous market is held right in Red Square.)
Need to warm up after a day of enjoying the markets? Head to a Russian Banya and book a private couples room. (Banya Zhivitsa is especially couple’s friendly.) You and your partner can enjoy couples soap massages and the traditional Russian banya experience together. (A banya is similar to a sauna.)
Winter is also a wonderful time of year to see a ballet performed at the famous Bolshoi Theatre – especially if you are lucky enough to get tickets to a performance of The Nutcracker. Be sure to have a romantic dinner at Turandot or Beluga restaurants before you head to your performance.
Where to stay in Moscow: One of the most historic and glamorous hotels in Moscow is the Metropol. (This hotel is also the setting
for the best-selling novel “A Gentleman in Moscow.”) Another great option is the Four Seasons Hotel located right on Red Square with some of the most luxurious and romantic hotel bathrooms in the city.
Read Next:
- 10 Romantic & Fun Places to Visit in Moscow
- Europe in Winter: 15 Snowy, Cozy Destinations to Visit
Barcelona
Submitted by Noel Morata, Travel Photo Discovery
Don’t miss our post on the most romantic things to do in Barcelona.
Isle of Skye Scotland
Submitted by Nabiha Khan, Verses By a Voyager
Scotland is extremely captivating and it’s also one of the amazingly beautiful areas in the country is the Isle of Skye. This part of the highlands is very romantic, too. Its green, it has huge mountains, mesmerizing lakes and historical castles beautifully sitting near the lochs.
The Isle of Skye presents a complete vibe of a super romantic place that takes you away from the hustle-bustle of everyday life. It’s serene and picturesque and let you have your alone time away from everything. Moreover, Isle of Skye hosts the most romantic place in the UK, the Fairy Pools. There are straight from a storybook and takes to the lands of fairytales. There are many Hollywood as well as Bollywood movies shot in Isle in Skye and that depicts how romantic this place is to form a perfect backdrop for a romantic movie.
The Isle of Skye offers the perfect tranquillity one craves for a romantic, laid-back holiday. As Scotland is very cold, summer is the best time to visit Isle of Skye.
Other super romantic places in Scotland:
County Kerry, Ireland
Submitted by Dan Bagby, Honeymoon Always
The majestic Irish landscapes, remarkable rich history, charming tradition, and welcoming people make Ireland a wonderful destination for couples looking for romance. One region to add to the list of romantic destinations, in particular, is County Kerry: full of beautiful sites and natural beauty.
Base your stay at Ballyseed Castle Hotel where you will find elegant accommodations, fine dining and 30 acres of private gardens and woodland. During the days, take a trip to the small town of Dingle for great restaurants and Murphy’s Ice Cream. Loop around the Dingle Penninsula on the Slea Head Drive, making stops along the way at the various ancient monuments including the beehive huts and stone churches, views of Skellig Michael (where scenes were filled for the most recent Star Wars films) and the beautiful Inch beach.
Killarney National Park with 26,00 acres of woodland, mountains, lakes and the Muckross House where Queen Victoria visited is also worth a visit as well as the Ring of Kerry with spectacular sights and quirkiest towns and villages.
Tallin, Estonia
Submitted by Nicole Sunderland, Eat Live Travel Drink
More Romantic Places in Europe Not to Miss
- Iceland: Most Romantic Things to Do in Iceland
- Denmark: Romantic Things to Do in Copenhagen
- Turkey: Romantic Things to Do in Istanbul
- UK: A Romantic Wales Road Trip
- Germany: Romantic Things to Do in Berlin
- The Netherlands Romantic Things to Do in Amsterdam
- Santorini, Greece: 12 Romantic Things to Do in Athens; Santorini Honeymoon Guide
- 7 Incredibly Romantic Things to Do in Dubrovnik
- 12 Most Romantic Hotels in the World for Your Couples Getaway
You might also consider these fun Europe travel ideas:
- Central Europe Itinerary: 2 Week Roadtrip
- A 6-Week European Backpacking Itinerary
- 12 of the Dreamiest Babymoon Destinations in Europe
- 12 Best Places to Travel in Europe with Kids: Family Friendly Vacation Ideas
Amy Hartle is the author of Do You Love Me? How To Stop Seeking Reassurance in Relationships, a book on reassurance seeking and relationship anxiety. Both her book and this blog are born of personal experience; Amy shares expert relationship advice from the lessons learned during her own 10+ years with her husband, as well as couples travel tips and romantic getaway recommendations, all gleaned while traveling the world together.