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The Most Romantic Valentines Day Destinations in Europe
A trip for Valentines Day? What a way to make some everlasting memories with the man or woman on your side. Here are some ideas for the most romantic Valentines Day destinations in Europe:
The Most Romantic City in Europe: Paris
by Honeymoon Always
You can’t go without mentioning Paris when speaking about Romantic getaways in Europe. This city of love lends itself effortlessly to a romantic time with your loved one with tons of things you can do together. With Paris being the home of 99 Michelin starred restaurants, it is a perfect opportunity to splurge on a gourmet meal. At night, I recommend taking the Seine Champagne Cruise followed by ascending to the top of the Eiffel Tower, where you can have a 4-course meal overlooking the city. Click here to make reservations!
For a more low key way to celebrate Valentine’s day in Paris, you could enjoy a picnic in one of the many beautiful parks, try a cooking class together or go for a walk around the city. When you ready to relax, head back to your hotel and indulge in a couples massage or other massage treatment. Consider finding a hotel with a view for an added touch. On our last trip to Paris, we stayed at a Hotel with a view of the Eiffel Tower. We would just sit on the balcony at night and watch the Eiffel Tower sparkle. One of our best and romantic memories from the trip was a time where we spontaneously started dancing on that balcony in the evening. (You can find our guide to the best hotels with views of the Eiffel Tower here)
Romantic Valentine’s Day in Rome
by Divergent Travelers
The Eternal City, Rome, is a place that will delight your senses, quench your thirst and fill your eyes with wonders. Nothing screams romance more than walking hand in hand while exploring the wonders of ancient Rome. Work your way around the city of a series of days highlighting the Roman Forum, the Colosseum, Vatican City, Palatine Hill, any combination of the trendy districts and don’t forget to toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain.
Don’t forget to take some time to enjoy an array of cuisine that has made Italy famous; homemade pizza, spaghetti dishes and all followed with an endless flow of locally produced wine. Rome has a vibe that will ignite your time spent there leaving you constantly yearning for a return visit once you’ve left.
One of the most romantic cities in Europe: Berlin
by Nomadic Boys
One of our favorite romantic getaways in Europe for Valentines is Berlin. It’s not only super easy to reach from London, but has so many romantic things to do to celebrate Valentine’s Day. Berlin is a beautiful city to walk in, particularly in the evening when the iconic buildings are lit up.
The famous Brandenburg Gate stands out of course, not only for its majestic beauty but because it is a symbol of reunification. The East Side Gallery on Mühlenstrasse in the Kreuzberg area is another focal point for memories of the former Berlin Wall and another part of the city we enjoyed walking through together. One section of it even has a gate devoted to lovers, where you can seal your love with a love lock.
Other favorite romantic experiences in Berlin include:
- an afternoon of indulgence for 2 at the Liquidrom Spa with underwater music playing, which along with the therapeutic color and lighting effects, creates an atmosphere of complete tranquility.
- dining at the Fernsehturm TV Tower – the highest restaurant in Germany 207m (679 ft) high and it slowly spins round. You must make reservations, as they are often sold out!
- dinner and classical music concert at the rococo-style Charlottenburg Palace. Click here to make reservations.
One of the best romantic destinations in Europe: Dubrovnik
by Drink Tea & Travel
Rocky coastline, stunning views, incredible food, and European charm make Dubrovnik one of the most romantic cities in Europe. The ancient walled city offers the perfect atmosphere to get away with your loved one. Stroll the narrow streets in Old Town, pose for perfect photos from the viewpoint on the wall, shop in stylish boutiques, or dine in style overlooking the Adriatic Sea, anything you get up to in Dubrovnik will feel that extra bit special. The setting here is prime for romance!
One of the best places to travel for Valentines Day: Vienna
by Gypsy Couple
Vienna has a unique vibe which places it as one of the most romantic cities in Europe. The city loves its coffee, respects its artists, is a beautiful mix of old and new and offers enough narrow cobbled alleyways with pretty houses to get lost in. Go old school and take your loved one for a date on the oldest Ferris wheel in the world. You can even have dinner on top of the Ferris Wheel. It is a bit expensive, but will definitely WOW your partner. But you can also find amazing food at many of the sidewalk cafes with a ringside view of artists displaying their skills. Our personal favorites were a team of wandering minstrels and their wonderful map of the countries they had visited. End the day with some (overpriced) delicious coffee which the patrons of the city all love to enjoy. A long winding walk or a ride in a horse-drawn carriage in the company of a good conversation should be a perfect end to a romantic evening in one of Europe’s most romantic cities.
One of the most romantic places for Valentines Day: Venice
by Make Time To See The World
When thinking about the most romantic cities in Europe, Venice is one of the first that spring to my mind. There is something magical about the (sinking) city on the water – from floating around the lagoon being serenaded by a Gondolier on a private Gondola ride to getting lost in the laneways on Venice Island and finding tiny cafe’s that have the best antipasto plates and wine you could ever dream of! The whole place is beautiful from any angle. And as the icing on the cake, the pink glass in the street lamps of Piazza San Marco cast the perfect rosy hue onto lovers as they make their way back to their hotels after a day exploring. What could be more romantic than that?!
One of the most romantic destinations in Europe: Budapest
by Surfing The Planet
Although Budapest can be quite cold around Valentine’s day, it’s a great destination, if you look for a really romantic city. It’s not for no reason that Budapest is referred to as the Paris of the East. There are so many things to do in Budapest, and here we just mention some of the most romantic activities for couples around Valentine’s day.
You can spend a lovely day in one of the world famous thermal baths like Széchenyi Bath. The outdoor pools are especially romantic in winter when you sit in the thermal pool, while outside sometimes everything is covered with snow and then indulge in a relaxing massage.
You can also take a sunset cruise on the Danube River, and enjoy the illuminated buildings from the boat. The view of the Castle and the Parliament at night are especially beautiful in the evening. They even offer Valentine’s Day Dinner Cruise!
Visiting the Fisherman’s Bastion in the Castle Hill is also a really romantic thing to do. From this beautiful lookout tower from you can enjoy the fascinating views of the city, especially romantic in the evening when the city is illuminated.
Have a Romantic Valentines Day in Andalucia, Spain
by A World to Travel
Whether you are traveling as couple or solo (which can be also romantic, trust me!), Andalusia should definitely be on your list if you are after a romantic Valentine’s getaway.
Located in the sunny South of Spain, the perfect way to uncover all its beauty would be jumping on an epic Andalusia road trip.
These are some of the highlights you should not miss:
- The coastal path between Malaga and Cadiz, where windy Tarifa stands out as a must-see destination on its own.
- Seville, Ronda, and the ‘Caminito del Rey’ hiking trail – once named the most dangerous one in the world.
- Granada and the nearby Sierra Nevada snow-capped mountains.
One of the most romantic places in Europe: Lake Bled
by Mismatched Passports
Bled, a small lakeside town in Slovenia, is an incredibly romantic place, especially in autumn. The colorful leaves and lack of tourists makes strolling by the lake a relaxing experience, and there are heaps of other things to do in the surrounding area.
The small island in the middle of Lake Bled features a fairy tale church — you can hire a boat and row there yourself or opt for a tour. There’s also a castle on a hill above the lake which holds stunning views of the mountains around Bled. Another romantic option is a walk through Vintgar Gorge, with its rocky cliffs and bright green water.
There’s also another lake nearby (Lake Bohinj), or you can choose to relax in Bled, which is home to lots of nice cafes and restaurants. Whatever you choose to do in Bled it’s sure to be a romantic getaway.
One of the most romantic European vacation spots: Santorini
by Go Beyond Bounds
A whitewashed quaint town and its blue domes churches perched up on a hill overlooking the deep blue Seas doesn’t that sound like a perfect romantic getaway? Santorini the greek island allures travelers with its beautiful sandy beaches, picturesque vistas and romantic sunsets over the Aegean Sea.
Two of the prominent villages of Santorini are Fira and Oia. While Fira is much touristy and has some of the best night parties Oia is much quieter and best for some laid-back experience. Saunter the cobblestone streets winding through the white and blue houses and souvenir shops taking in the view of the caldera. The sunsets are incredibly gorgeous so get yourself seated at one of the restaurants with the view of the sea and enjoy your meals while the sun slowly dips into the horizon.
One can take a group or private catamaran tour and explore different beaches and awe-inspiring views of the villages and caldera cliffs. One can even rent a car or go hiking exploring the less touristy and hidden spots in Santorini.
One of the top Valentines Day trips: Florence
by Road Affair
If you are looking for a romantic getaway, travel to Florence. The city just screams romance, I am not sure if it’s the wine, cheese, world-class art or architectural beauty, but just being in Florence is romantic.
Romance is in the air and if you are looking to add even more spark to the romantic atmosphere in Florence, take a wine tour, share a delicious Italian gelato, or enjoy a beautiful sunset over the city of Florence at Piazzale Michelangelo.
History buffs? Gaze at world-class art at the Uffizi Museum, or take a stroll through the intimate gardens of Boboli. Better yet, rent a scooter and take a scenic ride along the Tuscan countryside. Don’t forget to pack a picnic! With a bottle of Chianti, the magical Tuscan sun and your loved one by your side, you are bound to have an unforgettable romantic trip in Florence!
A great off-the-beaten-path Valentines Day trip: Brasov, Romania
by Two Drifters
Romania is a lovely destination for a romantic getaway but may not be the first place that comes to mind. In the winter, the snow turns the already fairytale like towns of Brasov, Sibiu, and Sighisoara into even more magical of places. Romania is the perfect spot to walk hand in hand through the cold with your loved one, discovering the beautiful nature throughout the Carpathian Mountains and beyond. Take a candlelight tour of Brasov and learn about medieval architecture, as well as local legends and stories about ghosts and vampires.
When you’re ready to warm up together, you can tuck into cozy restaurants, cafes, and even castles! Romania boasts amazing castles. We recommend Bran Castle and Peles Castle, both within easy reach of the wonderful city of Brasov or even as a day trip from Bucharest. Step back in time and live out your king and queen fantasies just for a moment.
One of the most popular and romantic cities in Europe: Barcelona
by Once in a Lifetime Journey
Valentines Day is a very recent tradition in Barcelona. In fact, the equivalent of lover’s day in Catalunya, the autonomy Barcelona is the capital of, is on Saint George’s Day on the 23rd of April when men give roses to women and women give books to men. The entire city is filled with stalls selling roses and books which makes for a very pretty sight.
Notwithstanding, Barcelona can be a romantic destination all year round and Valentine’s Day is just the perfect excuse to indulge in the city’s fabulous foodie scene, take long strolls along the beach where temperatures are warmer than most of the rest of Europe or share time exploring the city’s architectural masterpieces. What better way to feel the romance than wandering the narrow streets of the Gothic Quarter, stopping for churros and hot chocolate or cuddling up to keep warm under the falling leaves on Passeig de Gracia.
Spend a romantic Valentines Day in Belgrade
by Veronika’s Adventure
If you search for a romantic destination for a prolonged weekend, Belgrade is the place to go. Serbian capital with elegant boulevards is the best to be visited on foot – make sure to find time for a romantic walk. Kneza Mihaila Street is one of the most beautiful pedestrian zones in southeastern Europe. Make sure to visit Kelemegdan fortress, the oldest monument in Belgrade and place where Celtic tribes first settled in the 4th century BC. The views of Sava river is amazing. If you get hungry, I recommend restaurant Manufaktura with lovely and even catching umbrella decorations.
In the evening, find your way to Skadarlija, a cobblestone street so beautiful that it is often compared to Montmartre in Paris. Skadarlija offers amazing choices of restaurants, just pick one and spend your evening eating Serbian specialties and enjoying candlelight. Often, there is live music as well. No need to save – money in Belgrade goes a long way and food is one of the best in the Balkans.
For active couples: Skiing Trip in the Alpes
by Digital Nomad with Kids
Snow: you either love it or hate it. It will be no surprise, but we love it! Not only the snow, it is the total package of the skiing trip. The blue sky, the fresh air, and the stunning views. OK, to be fair, when the weather is bad, it’s best to go to a spa or something, but especially half February – around Valentine’s Day – the chances of having perfect weather for a lovely skiing trip are great.
We have been to lots of different ski areas in France, Austria, and Italy. France is popular because of its massive slopes, Austria for its apres ski and Italy for the wonderful food. On all of our trips, we’ve had so much fun enjoying the winter view, the fantastic slopes, each other’s company and, of course, a bit of apres skiing as well.
If you and your hubby love being outdoors, you should definitely spend your next Valentine’s Day in the Alps. Wherever you go on your skiing trip, you’ll love the romantic feeling of snow and mountains.
Find Hotels in the Austrian Alpes!
Find Hotels in the French Alpes!
Find Hotels in the German Alpes!
Find Hotels in the Italian Alpes!
Find Hotels in the Swiss Alpes!
One of the most romantic places in Europe: Castelluccio, Italy
by Best of World Travel
There is nothing more romantic in witnessing a stunning view of colorful fields, mountains and thousands of beautiful flowers while sitting beside with your significant one. Castelluccio is a village in Umbria, Central Italy that can give you the vibes of being in “heaven” during the end of their winter season up to the early summer because of the awe-inspiring flowers that bloom in their fields.
During the month of February, it may be a bit colder because of the winter season, but the flowers will start to bloom with confidence which makes it a perfect destination in the Valentines’ Day. If you and your loved one would want to stay longer, by the end week of February until the first week of June, you can witness the true form of Castelluccio because some flowers are changing colors in this time of the year.
It may not be as popular as Paris or Venice, but a day or two of fresh air with a scent of love in Castelluccio will surely bring you and your loved one in a sweet and mesmerizing infatuation with each other. It is a great place to feel the harmony of nature and yourselves.
A great Valentines Day Destination: Ljubljana
by My Adventures Across The World
The vast majority of people think of Paris or Venice when they refer to the most romantic cities in Europe. I like to think of myself as a romantic woman, but I am so in a more subtle way, I suppose. Indeed, I find Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, to be one of the most romantic places in the old continent.
What makes it incredibly romantic is the lack of traffic in the city center, meaning that there isn’t any annoying noise and that if I ever want to walk hand in hand with my beau, I won’t be stopped by a car trying to run me over.
There are many beautiful parks; a lovely river that is the perfect place for a romantic stroll; many cute cafés and restaurants; a castle and a skyscraper with breathtaking views of the city. To me, it can’t get more romantic than that!
One of the most romantic cities in Europe: Prague
by Getting Stamped
My husband and I have spent over 6 months exploring Europe together and of all the cities Prague really captured our hearts. We fell in love with the city so much we’ve gone back. Prague is the most gorgeous city in Europe, in our opinion. We love waking up early holding hands and walking over the Charles Bridge, go early before the tourists it’s one of the most romantic spots. One of our favorite things to do in Prague is just get lost. We have found some of the most amazing restaurants and little bars on accident.
Our last trip was right before Christmas when the city was filled with Christmas markets. There is something magical about Christmas time. We literally hopped from market to market drinking Glühwein as we picked up unique Christmas gifts for our friends and family back home. We know we’ll be back in Prague!
Take a Valentines Day Trip to Edinburgh
by Two Scots Abroad
Rolling hills, fierce lochs, tales of love and heartbreak – Scotland really is the perfect romantic getaway for couples of all types.
The urban dwellers should head to the capital city of Edinburgh to pound those mean cobbled streets and admire the medieval architecture, stopping for a dram of whisky to kick off that second wind.
Country bumpkins and those who appreciate the outdoors will fall in love with the west coast of Scotland with its jagged Cuillin mountains of the Isle of Skye and engulfing Munros of Glencoe.
Foodies will love or hate our national dish, haggis, but unite over our up and coming craft beer and gin community (book a food tour of Edinburgh here)! So grab your brolly this February and bring your lassie or laddie to Caledonia but run the other way if a local asks you if you want a Glesga kiss!
It doesn’t get more romantic than that: Amalfi Coast
by Jet Settera
The Amalfi Coast in Southern Italy is the ideal destination for a romantic weekend get-away on Valentine’s Day. This beautiful coast has served as a residence of many Italian celebrities like Sophia Loren. Today, it is one of the most popular wedding and honeymoon destinations of Europe. Its spectacular scenery and authentic places explain why the coast is many couples’ favorite. The Amalfi Coast offers wonderful views to its visitors, authentic Southern Italian cuisine and a romantic atmosphere.
The best way to visit the Amalfi Coast is by boat. You can cruise from Positano to Amalfi and to Ravello and visit all three of the charming coastal towns. Le Sirenuse in the center of Positano is a Michelin-starred restaurant with a famous oyster bar and a private balcony. It is the ideal place for a Valentine’s Day dinner. It is also romantic to visit the nearby caves Grotto Dello Smeraldo. They are lit up in various colors during the day.
Play Romeo and Juliet in Verona
by Laugh Travel Eat
Verona is arguably the most romantic city in the world not only because of its historic charm but because of the story of Romeo and Juliet. The greatest love story ever written by William Shakespeare, the local story based play has left its mark in the city. Although most are created for the sake of tourism, you can stand on Juliet’s balcony and pay respect to her tomb. Most of all, you can write to Juliet or even act as Juliet’s Secretary at Club di Giulietta.
If you consider their story too morbid, then fear not, for Verona has plenty other places that would romance your socks off. A city that existed since the Roman times, you can visit its amphitheater or the Ponte Pietro. If stunning vista is more your thing, then head to Castiel Saint Pietra for sunset. Bored of the cobbled stone street? Visit the hidden grounds of Gardino Giusti and roam its maze. If all things fail, a quick gelato and a stroll along the River Adige or dinner in one of the many charming piazzas would do the trick.
One of the most romantic destinations in Europe: Colmar
by Contented Traveller
Colmar is in the Alsace region of France, close to the fabulous city of Strasbourg. Colmar oozes romantic getaway. This is one of those picture postcard destinations, with colored and half-timbered wooden houses, a babbling river running through it, and flowers everywhere. Colmar is a foodies dream destination, having 7 Michelin-starred restaurants as well as local markets and cute little local cafes. As it is on the wine trail of Alsace, you are never short of a romantic drink to enjoy and makes it the perfect spot to explore the Alsacian wine region.
The stunning view of the district from the Saint-Pierre Bridge, to the far south of Little Venice, is one of the most photographed views of Colmar. To complete your romantic weekend, you can explore the culture of the city. Everything is in easy walking distance, and some highlights are The Old Town which lies between the Rue des Têtes, the Rue des Clefs, and the Rue des Marchands near the Place de la Cathédrale. Then you need to return to the canal for French champagne of course.
A great Valentines Day trip city: Bruges
by Travel Passionate
If you are looking for a romantic getaway in Europe, you should visit the fairy-tale city of Bruges in Belgium. Colorful houses, narrow cobblestone alleyways, historic churches, beautiful squares and a maze of canals make Bruges a picturesque destination. A very romantic way to experience the city is either by a canal boat or a horse-drawn carriage.
You can also climb the Belfry tower and enjoy a breathtaking view of Bruges. If you want to give yourself a break from the walk you can have a cup of hot chocolate and a waffle in one of the many tea rooms around the city and don’t forget to buy a box of chocolates from one of the local chocolatiers.
Lastly, take a romantic stroll during the night when the canals and docks are lit up and then head for a dinner for two. Bruges is a city you will fall in love at first sight.
Romantic Winter Wonderland Kitzbühl
by Travel Bloguer
Kitzbühel is a medieval town located in the Tyrol region of Austria. It is renowned for its ski fields, and nothing is more romantic than a stunning village with the snow-capped Tyrolean peaks surrounding it. Kitzbühel does attract people who like lovely things, and the luxury resorts in the town pander to the romantic getaways. Kitzbühl is a very fashionable resort, and the many international visitors who visit throughout the year, come because it is uber chic, but also because it is such a lovely village.
In the winter months, Kitzbühel is an alpine mecca with some incredible runs for skiers and boarders. The après ski life, as to be expected, is tres special. The summer months also attract people wanting a romantic getaway and are home to many romantic walks, golf courses and some major sporting events like polo and the Austrian Tennis Open. Having a romantic getaway in Kitzbühel is a very hedonistic and romantic experience.
Ice Hotel in Kemi, Finland
by The Crowded Planet
Normally when you say ‘Valentines Day’ people imagine places like Paris, or wonderful tropical beaches. In my opinion, Finland in winter is definitely one of the most romantic destinations in Europe.
If I were to choose one location, I would recommend visiting Kemi with your significant other. Kemi is a town in coastal Finland, and its claim to fame is the Snow Castle, a wonderful castle that exists only for four months of the year, totally built with snow and ice! You can choose to spend the night in one of the snow rooms, like we did, and snuggle up under a reindeer skin. If you’re afraid of the cold, you can opt to stay in an ‘olokolo’, a clear roofed pod that can be heated, from where you can also see the Northern Lights (if you’re lucky!), or just do a day-trip to Kemi’s Ice Castle.
If you like adventure you can also take a cruise on an icebreaker ship – the ship stops after a few hours and you get the chance to jump into the icy Baltic sea! Fear not, you would be wearing a drysuit, and there’s a cup of coffee waiting when you get back onboard.
Book a room at the Kemi Snow Castle!
A Great Valentines Day destination: Dublin
by Aspiring Gentleman
Dublin is popular for a reason. Guinness beer, Irish folk music, historic buildings like St Patrick’s Cathedral, and the Irish people of course.
Romantic winter destination? Snuggling next to my your romantic partner by the fireplace in a Temple Bar pub drinking fine whiskey reading W.B. Yeats certainly qualifies. Or switch from whiskey to beer looking over the Dublin skyline at the Guinness Storehouse Gravity Bar with 360 views past the River Liffey to the Dublin Bay. Once you drank a few pints take your significant other to some historic Dublin sites like St. Patrick’s Cathedral while reading Jonathan Swift’s famous love poems he once gave to his lover Esther Johnson.
That’s only a handful of many potential romantic ways to spend a weekend in Dublin. Was it enough to convince you to visit this Valentines Day?
One of most romantic places in Europe: Hvar, Croatia
by The World Pursuit
The relatively small Croatian island may be known as one of the top party places in Croatia, but beyond that there is so much more romance in the air. Hvar is a ritzy island getaway perfect for all types of lovers that want a relaxing Mediterranean vacation. The beaches here are world class with turquoise water meeting sunbathers lounging on the pristine sand. The Pakleni island group are made up of 21 lush islands and are frequently visited by yachts carrying celebrities and some of the world’s elite.
If you aren’t into sunbathing all day with your lover there are plenty of mountains around to take a hike, as well as great kayaking, rock climbing, and snorkeling to stay active. Even for the history lovers, Hvar packs a punch for museums, Venetian architecture, and even an old fortress. We wanted the best of all worlds on Hvar so we decided to stay and relax for a while with adventure, history, and sun included!
What is your favorite romantic destination in Europe?
These are our romantic Valentines Day Destinations in Europe picked by Travel Bloggers from all over the world, but I want to hear from you! Have you ever taken your sweetheart on a romantic getaway over Valentines Day? Share your story in the comments!
Romantic Valentines Destinations in Europe – Pin for later:
Jeremie
Friday 17th of February 2017
Great post I would only add that people can visit also Strasbourg while in Colmar as both city are really close and both very beautiful
I saw you recommend Granada in the post, and as I lived there and enjoyed it I totallyy agree with you. Great city for visit, food and culture in general !
Nicole Jackson
Wednesday 8th of February 2017
such a beautiful post, valentine day is coming near and special person is already missing, lots of love
Hannah Lukaszewicz
Thursday 2nd of February 2017
Thanks for including us and it looks like we need to get back to Europe!
Gemma
Thursday 2nd of February 2017
Such a lovely post, we're actually going skiing to the Alps for our honeymoon! Thanks for featuring us.
Stefan
Thursday 2nd of February 2017
Brilliant post, super useful and also a few decent ideas as well...Prague - now there's a thought :)