Most Romantic Places in Europe

What do you need to enjoy a perfect romantic holiday? Whether you like to explore the picturesque old cities, relax on the beach or at a pool, or just go sightseeing with your loved one, the European cities have them all. Besides the famous romantic places such as Paris and Venice, the old continent also boasts some unexpected surprises.

16. London , UK

A huge and expensive city, London might not be everyone’s choice of a romantic destination. But for those who want to just be “anonymous” in a city, London is the best choice. The Thames with the London Eye on its left bank and Big Ben on the right bank creates an incredible background for any photo or love story.

It’s noisy, it’s crowded and on top of that, expensive. But if you plan carefully you’ll soon realize that you can enter most museums for free. Plus you can watch the changing of the guards for free as well. Nothing more romantic than starting your day with a walk hand in hand along the banks of the river and then taking a ride in the old style double deckers (they still run on the Heritage Route 9 and 15 daily). Then explore one of the markets and buy something for a romantic picnic (since London is the most expensive city to eat in).

15. Cyprus

Cyprus has a very romantic history. According to legend, Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty, was born on the island, emerging from a seashell. Later in history, the island was Anthony’s gift to Cleopatra during the glorious days of the Roman Empire.

Today, Cyprus is one of the favorite places to either get married or have a very romantic vacation. The beautiful landscape, lovely beaches and traditional towns are the best places to experience love.

There are plenty of archeological sites to discover, dating from the New Stone Age to the Roman Empire. Nicosia, the capital, is filled with interesting places to see including the preserved Venetian walls which surround the city.

14. Ljubljana, Slovenia

Ljubljana seems to be built for lovers. The first impression is that of a fairytale atmosphere with old buildings mirroring in the canals’ waters, with small alleys dotted with cafes and plenty of churches.

Plan for a day trip to Lake Blend, the most scenic lake in the country, overlooked by a castle. It’s located at about 1 hour drive to the north of the capital.

On the lake there’s the only island in Slovenia. And on the island there’s a temple. Climb the 99 steps and the ring the bell at the entrance for good luck.

13. Dubrovnik , Croatia

The picture perfect Croatian city seems to draw lovers any time of the year. Surrounded by cliffs and offering perfect views of the sea, Dubrovnik is just perfect for a romantic getaway.

If you want to avoid the crowds, plan your vacation before the season begins (April and May are good choices).

The Old City still retains its medieval charm. Walk around the city walls and capture its beauty.

Then head to one of the beaches for some excellent diving, romantic picnic or just walking hand in hand.

12. Reykjavik , Iceland

Another city you won’t expect to find on such a list, Reykjavik is filled with scenic views, incredible landscapes, perfect spas and a very lively nightlife. Try to think outside the box when you plan a romantic vacation here and you’ll certainly be surprised about what the city has to offer.

Head to the harbor for some amazing sunsets and if you happen to visit the city in late winter you can even see the magnificent Northern Lights.

Walking is by far the best way to explore the city. Most of the landmarks are located within walking distance of each other and the city is truly beautiful. There is also a very scenic trail both for walking and cycling which leads to an outdoor swimming pool and beach.

Outdoor Geo-Thermal Swimming Pools are an important part of the Icelandic culture and a great way to relax. Just make sure to show up since you can rent towels and swim suits at the pool.

11. St. Petersburg , Russia

Simple gorgeous! That will best define St. Petersburg. Filled with museums and castles, the city becomes even more romantic when the dim light of the moon overlooks its canals. During winter, the sights are also magnificent. It can be bitter cold but the beauty of the city is just overwhelming.

The Hermitage Museum is the most important landmark in the city and is truly one of the greatest museums in the world. It is not expensive (simple daily ticket about $18) to visit and you can also show up on the first Thursday of any month you can enter for free. There are plenty of museums and churches to explore as well. To complete a perfect evening you should watch a ballet performance at The Mariinsky.

During the summer, you can see the city from a boat, while taking a tour on the canal. Tickets are quite expensive but the sights are worth the ride.

10. Berlin, Germany

Berlin is probably not the obvious choice for many couples looking for romance. But Germany’s capital has changed drastically over the years. Today it offers a vibrant nightlife and incredible architecture.

Stroll along its streets to discover the Brandenburg Gate and the remaining pieces of the dreaded Berlin Wall. Then, spend some time in Gendarmenmarkt to look for bargains or just soak up the atmosphere.

For incredible views of the city, go up on Fernsehturm TV Tower in Alexanderplatz. The square is Berlin’s heart and still retains the former Soviet feel.

9. Budapest, Hungary

Probably not the most obvious choice when it comes to a romantic getaway, Budapest knows how to impress the lovers as soon as they arrive in the city. Danube, which separates the capital into two towns, creates the best background for a romantic walk or a romantic dinner in one of the cafes on its banks. Take a cruise on the river and admire the buildings as you pass by them.

If your inner child wants a day out in the city, make sure to stop by the zoo. The immense garden comprises both animals and plants, creating a magic and relaxing atmosphere. Buy treats for the swans and spend some time by the pond.

Or you can rent a double bike on Margitsziget (Margarit Island) and enjoy an active day while watching the scenery on this incredible island dotted with baths, parks and running tracks.

8. Amsterdam , Netherlands

With a long history of “liberal” outlook upon a certain couples’ activity, Amsterdam is able to reveal its romantic side as well. A romantic walk hand in hand by the canals brings to the attention incredible old houses and romantic squares.

Rent a bike and explore the city at your own pace stopping just for a photo or …a kiss.

In the evening, try one of the cafes. They might not be anyone’s choice for a romantic night out, but it can surely be a totally different experience.

7. Rome , Italy

During the day, Rome is a very tiring city. It’s huge and busy and you can bump into tourists everywhere (especially in July and August). But when the sun sets, it gets quieter and it’s the time to start exploring the romantic side of Italy’s capital. You might not fall in love with the city from the first moment but in couple of days you’ll learn to love it. Allow yourself a day to explore the highlights of the city: Forum, Colosseum, the Pantheon and Piazza Navon. Cliché or not, throw a coin in the Trevi Fountain.

Walk hand in hand and explore the city both by day and by night. There’s something magical about Rome under the moonlight. Don’t forget to end the night with a romantic dinner in a real Italian restaurant.

6. Monaco

If you are looking for a different approach to a romantic escape, forget Paris, Venice or Rome. Head to Monaco. The tiny country is rich in romantic places, offers stunning views and is the birthplace of several romance stories over the years.

Walking is the perfect way to explore Monaco although there are some places which require a bit of stamina to be tackled on foot. Stroll on the narrow streets of the Old City (known as Monaco-Ville) and then take a walk above the harbor, on either side of Palais Princier. With the Oceanographic Museum and Aquarium there’s an excellent restaurant which offers some of the best views of the Riviera. The Exotic Garden is a fascinating and exotic experience. The walking tour can be a lovely experience and a romantic way to check out the flora from all over the world.

5. Prague, Czech Rep.

Out of the many Eastern Europe capitals, Prague seems to have conquered the tourists pretty fast (and easy). The very beautiful Old Town, with its incredible Bridge Tower, creates a romantic and fairytale like background for any vacation.

Then there is the beautiful Charles Bridge, the lovers’ most favorite place in Prague. The Baroque statues which decorate the bridge are replicas but the atmosphere created is so real. The entire bridge is a pedestrian area, filled with artists and places to eat.

The Gothic ruins of Libuses’s Baths (within Vysehrad Castle) offer the best views of the bridges over the river Vltava and Prague Castle. It’s also the best place to watch a romantic sunset.

4. Vienna, Austria

Austria’s capital might not be your first choice when it comes to a romantic vacation, but Vienna really knows how to get into your heart.

The Giant Ferries Wheel offers some of the most dramatic views of the city. But it also offers the possibility to experience a very romantic dinner (inside one of the cabins) while you enjoy the landscape surrounding you.

The immense gardens at Schönbrunn Palace are excellent to take long walks and enjoying the nature. Also within the gardens, there’s Vienna Zoo, a lovely place to unleash the inner child while experiencing a small snack of bagels and coffee.

At night, drive on the road going behind the Gloriette (opposite to Schönbrunn Palace) for some incredible views (the gate is lit in a very interesting way).

3. Santorini , Greece

The island of Santorini is known as the best place in Europe to experience incredible sunsets.

The breathtaking volcano and the immaculate houses perched on its sides create a picture perfect background for any romantic vacation.

Spend your morning on the beach, enjoying the sun along with a romantic picnic and then, in the evening, eat dinner as the sun sets behind the volcano.

The small villages which dot the volcano edges offer a lovely opportunity to explore the Greek traditional way of life and discover the well known Santorini wines.

2. Venice , Italy

The city’s beauty, uniqueness and old charm will make anyone fall in love with Venice. Add the great Italian food and numerous alleys where you can just get lost while exploring the city and Venice becomes an incredible place to spend a romantic getaway.

If you want to enjoy being together and not be overwhelmed by the hoards of tourists, visit Venice in fall or winter. The crispier weather is a great reason to just cuddle and kiss as you explore the city.

1. Paris , France

It might be cliché but Paris is by far the most romantic place in Europe. Whether you plan to walk hand in hand on the boulevards just to stop for a coffee and croissant at one of the cafes or if you decide to venture in one of the flea markets, Paris offers lovers something to do each season.

Stroll the city in the dim light just before the sunset and then walk along Seine and capture the beautiful images. The next morning plan a romantic walk in Park of Luxembourg. And don’t forget to experience the magnificent views from the top of Eiffel Tower.

Photo credits:
16 – ccsharry on Flickr ; 15 – Anders R. Naesset on Flickr ; 14 – StrudelMonkey on Flickr ; 13 – : saxonfenken on Flickr ; 12 – Kristín Sig on Flickr ; 11 – Driftings on Flickr ; 10 – Monguinhas on Flickr ; 9 – Cristina Dima ; 8 – FreeFoto.com ; 7 – warrenchrismas on Flickr ; 6 – Art Hill on Flickr ; 5 – jasonweaver on Flickr ; 4 – Cristina Dima ; 3 – marcelgermain on Flickr ; 2 – FreeFoto.com ; 1 – GlobeTrotter 2000 on Flickr

Author: Cristina Dima

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