This list of the top 10 romantic destinations in Europe includes some of the most magical cities in Europe. If you are planning a special getaway for a birthday for a significant other, a honeymoon in Europe, or a “just because I love you” trip, then picking the perfect romantic European destination is a must.
Europe is full of romantic getaway’s and is a top travel location for lovers. It is the perfect place for couples looking to enjoy some quality time together in a fairytale environment. Although almost all European destinations have their own unique charm and beauty, there are some uniquely romantic ones that top all the rest. Some of the places on this list are expected, while others are not.
What is romantic differs from couple to couple which is why this list of the top 10 romantic destinations in Europe includes something to fit different people’s ideas of romance. Use this list as an inspiration for your next romantic getaway. And have your love amplified by the stunning surroundings and magical environment.
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Top 10 Romantic Destinations in Europe
Positano, Italy
Positano, Italy is one of the most romantic places on earth. It is a very popular honeymoon destination and vacation spot for couples because romance is easy in Positano. The views are beyond captivating with the pastel-coloured houses and green mountains and the perfect background for a romantic setting. There is a beach right in the city so you can swim and enjoy the warm seawater together blissfully. What’s even better is that the Michelin Star restaurants offer the best romantic dinner setting and cuisine you could ask for.
Positano is more than just a pretty view and offers a ton of activities and things to do for couples. You can go on a hike together, go boating on the sea, shopping in the streets, and much more! This is a paradise setting with an adventurous heart. The perfect place to grow your love in an endearing and magical setting.
Prague, Czech Republic
Sitting in Eastern Europe, Prague is undoubtedly one of the most romantic places in Europe. From its fairytale cobblestone streets, unique gothic architecture, compelling art, and captivating views Prague has a romantic European destination that has it down. There is nothing more romantic than wandering the brightly colored streets of Prague hand in hand with your significant other, it almost feels like something from a romantic novel.
Beyond being beautiful there, Prague is a big city with a ton of things to do. If you are looking for some adventures and activities to do with your partner this is a great place for it. The best thing about Prague is that it is one of the most budget-friendly European destinations! This is perfect for enjoying a romantic getaway without having to break the bank.
Read More: How to spend a weekend in Prague, Czech Republic
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Most people don’t immediately think of romance when they think of Amsterdam, but they could not be more wrong. Amsterdam does have a certain reputation that makes it seem like a city for young partiers but there is so much more to this magical place than what meets the eye. The various canals, colorful houses, secret streets, cozy cafes, tasty restaurants, and romance filled hotels are enough to make any couple feel in love.
There is a ton of things to do in Amsterdam, more than most people ever expect. You could easily spend hours walking the streets and getting lost in the canals or go on an epic Amsterdam date adventure. Whatever you do you will surely be charmed by the beauty and uniqueness of the city.
Read More: 20 Amsterdam Date Ideas
Santorini, Greece
Santorini is also known as the honeymoon island of Greece. Within the island of Santorini, the area of Oia is what stands out as the number one chosen spot for a romantic getaway. In Oia, you will find the picturesque whitewashed houses and blue-domed roofs that are stunning to look at. It is also one of the best places in Europe to watch a sunset or sunrise. And what is more romantic than a sunset view with the one you love?
If you are looking for more than to just admire the pretty views, you can always embark on some exciting adventures from Santorini. Think island hopping, food tours, four-wheel drives along the island and more! This destination is probably in the top 3 amongst the top 10 romantic destinations in Europe.
Kotor, Montenegro
Montenegro is an up and coming tourist destination that attracts hundreds of thousands of tourists in the summer months. The scenic beauty of this Adriatic gem radiates from all directions. Especially in the small city of Kotor, which has been ranked as one of the top 10 places to visit in Montenegro. Here you get some of the most magical views of the Bay of Kotor, the old town, and the lush mountains fortifying the city. A hike to the top of the Kotor Fortress with the one you love will leave you breathless (literally it’s a hard hike).
Be sure to plan to spend some time in Kotor and explore some of the surrounding areas like Herceg Novi and Tivat. You will quickly find yourself lost in the magical charm of this small Mediterranean city when you explore the old streets and admire the captivating scenery. This makes it one of the most understated yet top 10 romantic destinations in Europe.
Venice, Italy
Venice is not only one of the top 10 romantic destinations in Europe, but one of the most romantic places in the world. The feeling of love and romance explodes all throughout Venice. The streets are small and colourful and the canals are filled with singing gondolas. It almost feels like the Italian atmosphere gives it an extra touch of romance.
From walking the cobblestoned streets to getting lost in unknown areas, to eating fresh gelato. There is no shortage of things to do to spark your romantic getaway. If you want to be ultra-romantic, be sure to take a ride on a gondola and pay the extra fee to have them sing, it truly is something out of a movie.
Read More: How to spend one day in Venice, Italy
Southern Iceland
There are some couples who are looking for more than beautiful views and want to experience adventure, natural phenomenons, and distinctive experiences. The best destination that has all of this, plus the perfect air of romance, is Southern Iceland. Here you will find various iconic Icelandic attractions like the Blue Lagoon, Reykjavik, the Golden Circle and much more!
There is nothing better than renting a car with your significant other to drive around Iceland and explore all the stunning natural beauty. There really is no other country on earth quite as impressive as Iceland. Soaking all this wonder in with your partner is the perfect bonding experience.
After a day of exploring in the cold, there is nothing better than warming up with a cup of tea and talking about how the day went.
Read More: 3 Days in Iceland, The Ultimate Itinerary
Valencia, Spain
Valencia is not a city you would immediately expect to be romantic. But sometimes it’s the unknown ones that surprise you! Valencia is a Spanish paradise complete with sun, sea, and a tropical vibe. Love is in the air in Valencia with its captivating old town, welcoming restaurants, and picturesque streets. It is a city that offers more than meets the eye and offers something to do and enjoy for every type of couple.
If you are looking to simply enjoy each other’s company you can spend a lazy day on the beach. This vast sandy area is perfect for deep talks and quality time together. Or you can stroll around the old town and get lost in the winding streets and alleyways. Finish off the day with a drink and dinner in one of the many vibrant Spanish patios. This is perfect for enjoying quality time together.
What makes Valencia even more romantic is that the city is not as populated with tourists as others on this list. This makes it a more intimate couples getaway that feels like something only you two share making it one of the best top 10 romantic destinations in Europe.
Paris, France
A list of romantic getaways in Europe would not be complete without the city of love. Paris is the ultimate romantic city that is constantly featured in films and TV as a place for love and connections. Usually, films exaggerate, but when they portray Paris as the ultimate romantic getaway they are showing it quite accurately.
Paris has a level of romance to it that is unmatched. From the secret gardens to the museums dedicated to love to the private rooftops to watch the sunset. And to the little streets that make you feel like the only two people on earth. Every corner of the city feels like “your place” and you might find yourself acting like young kids in love. The romance only continues every night on the hour when the Eiffle tower sparkles. The romantic aura of Paris is unique and undeniable.
Read More: Weekend in Pairs: What to do, see and eat
Budapest, Hungary
Budapest is an underrated romantic European city that is full of romance and charm. From the vast Danube river to the historic buildings to the secret little spots to watch the sunset with your partner. The city is a haven for love and Hungary’s romantic gem for travel couples and easily one of the top 10 romantic destinations in Europe.
Couples in Budapest are privy to a ton of things to do that will only bring you closer. You may find yourself having an intimate picnic in the park or walking hand in hand down the Danube. However, the most romantic thing to do in Budapest is watching the sunset. The vibrant pinks and reds from the top of Gellert Hill are stunning.
Read More: 2 Days in Budapest | The Perfect Itinerary
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There is no doubt that love is in the air! These days more and more couples are strengthening their relationships by traveling and sharing intimate moments such as this together. Nothing will ever compare to these magical moments shared in foreign places. And the memories you will able to remember forever.
When planning your next romantic European getaway be sure to take some inspiration from this list of the top 10 romantic destinations in Europe!
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Love,
SSW
You have certainly covered some of my favourite romantic European destinations – Positano, Venice, Parks and Santorini. We loved Prague and Budapest but ran around to tourist sites on our whole visits. So need to go back to find the quiet romantic spots. Kotor is definitely on our travel wish list to return to. Those views from above look stunning. We will definitely want to stay long enough to explore the surrounding areas.
I haven’t been to all of these cities but I think they are perfect choices for a romantic getaway. Positano would be my first pick because I love the ocean as well as the hills and this city seems to have a lot to offer.
Great list and I would definitely agree with your choices. I have been to 4 – Paris, Prague, Amsterdam and Venice. And, the remaining 6 are all on my list. For me, nothing beats Paris. It is where we return to every 5 years to celebrate our wedding anniversary, so it holds a special place in my heart.
I have been to 5 out of this list. Really worth the money and time spent on the destinations. Iceland is high on my list of the remaining 5.
Santorini and Venice are two of my favorite places in the world!!! I haven’t been to Positano yet but it’s super high on my list. I’m a single person, but I can still appreciate how awesome these places are!!
After 20 years of marriage I think a romantic getaway is just what the doctor ordered. I think Positano is top of my list.
Love this list! So far, I’ve only been to a few of them: Santorini, Prague, Paris,
Amsterdam, and Venice. My favorite is Santorini. But I’d love to check out all the others as well!
I just got back from a trip to Southern Iceland with my boyfriend and I can definitely vouch for how romantic it is 🙂