Europe, with its endless romantic waterways and long beaches by the coastlines, offers many romantic destinations for travel couples coming from all over the world. Wondering where to travel next with your partner this Easter or the upcoming summer holidays? Here are the top 6 most romantic destinations among some of the dozens that I have been to.
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1. Venice - Italy
Having long been associated with romanticism, Venice is one of the most famous cities visited in Italy. Travelers come here to not just see the beautiful canals, but the whole city of history, art, and culture above the water. Float through the islands on a gondola, put on a local hand-made mask, and lounge through the old narrow streets while listening to the majestic music coming from the Venetian wine glasses, played by a local street artist. You may even opt to just enjoy a glass of red wine in a local restaurant. There are endless things to do here as travel couples. During the carnival month February, visitors are thrilled to see lots of couples on the street with their expensive, complex, and stunning costumes.
2. Bruges - Belgium
The second most romantic destination on my list is Bruges, located in West Flanders. It is a small city, easy to get around and also to get lost in the small narrow streets surrounding the town. Bruges is famous for being one of the rare Belgian cities lying above the water. During the 13th century, it was an important and wealthy medieval trading centre. Nowadays, many couples traveling to Belgium, and the Netherlands, do not forget to stop by Bruges, and also to buy a box of chocolates. Some of the best chocolates in Europe are produced in this region, as well as throughout Belgium. The most popular spot in the city is probably where one scene of the movie ‘In Bruges’ was filmed.
3. Santorini - Greece
Another destination on my top 3 favorites, is Santorini, Greece. From the Oia and Fira villages, there are various stunning locations for you to enjoy the majestic sunset above the sea. The experience of seeing the lights slowly appearing from those abundant small houses, lying by the cliff, as the sun sets is magnificent. A must-do for couples here, is to enjoy Greek seafood at a restaurant by the sea. There are lots of famous beaches where you can spend your days, relaxing and swimming, including the Red Beach and the White Beach.
4. Budapest - Hungary
Despite being the capital of Hungary, Budapest is not a busy or hectic city at all. Budapest remains old, calm, and is often described as the ‘Little Paris of Middle Europe’. The city attracts thousands of couples traveling here every year for a romantic walk by the Danube River bank, or a relaxed getaway in the thermal bath right in the middle of the city. A must-visit in the city is the Hungarian Parliament Building - a magnificent example of Neo-Gothic architecture through a hundred years of time. If you have a lot of time to explore Eastern and Central Europe, come to Prague - the capital of the Czech Republic. The city is also famous for its historic centre and romantic cruises above the Vltava River.
5. Sintra - Portugal
Located about one hour by train from the capital Lisbon, Sintra is another unique destination to put on your bucket list. The whole city is covered with mist and a mysterious atmosphere. Couples tend to come here and spend hours relaxing in the Quinta da Regaleira. The luxurious Palace and Gardens complex is far more than just a garden itself, but rather, filled with unexpected surprises for its visitors. There are lots of secret wells, towers, lakes, statues, creeks, signals, and other mysteries here. The entrance fee is 6 EUR (6.78 USD). A must-visit UNESCO Heritage in the area, is the Pena Palace. It’s certainly one of the most beautiful palaces you can find in Europe. The mid 19th-century summer palace for the previous Royal Family looks like a harmonious combination of one of Gaudi’s buildings and a bit like Disneyland.
6. Paris - France
Last but not least, I must not exclude Paris from my top romantic travel destinations. The French capital is known as the centre of art, history, culture, and especially cuisine in the country. It is well known for the massive Eiffel Tower, the Notre Dame, and many other important buildings, making the exquisite French architecture tempting for all kinds of visitors to Europe. Though, many people say Paris is too much of a hectic and touristy city, it is still one of my favourite destinations in Europe. I could never get bored of walking along the banks of the Seine River, or watching cruises passing by as the sun sets. I guarantee you and your loved one find a special place in your heart for this city, just like I have.
Travel tips
Avoid coming to Europe during the peak seasons between July and August. It can be difficult finding accommodation not just for couples, but also for solo travelers. Instead of staying in fancy hotels or low quality bed and breakfasts, I recommend booking a private room via Airbnb. By traveling this way, you can also enjoy interacting with the locals.
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