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Ah, isn’t love just magical?
If you and your sweetheart are craving a mix of adventure and romance, this hand-picked list of the most romantic cities in Europe is your ticket to keeping those sparks alive.
Get ready to be swept off your feet by Europe’s most enchanting destinations. I’ll help you discover (or rediscover) the magic of love with these dreamy cities—so start planning that romantic escape now.
Who knows? One of these spots might even be the perfect backdrop for popping the big question.
From timeless classics like Florence and Vienna to a few hidden gems you may not have heard of, I’ve got you covered. So buckle up and start crafting the ultimate couple’s itinerary!
Love this? Don’t forget to check out Best Time to Visit Italy AND 29 Essential Italy Travel Tips to make most of your Italian adventure!
12 Ultimate Romantic Getaways in Europe You Cannot Miss
1. FLORENCE, ITALY
If there’s one city that specifically seems to have been designed for romance, it’s Florence. Honestly, the moment you step onto those cobblestone streets and catch sight of the Duomo glowing in the afternoon sun, you just feel the magic.
The entire city is like a living postcard. It’s intimate: narrow lanes, candlelit trattorias, and bridges where sunsets look straight out of a movie.
It’s small enough to explore hand in hand but grand enough to leave you awestruck at every turn.
This city’s history is pure poetry. Think about the Renaissance legends—the Medici family funding breathtaking art, Dante writing about his muse Beatrice, and countless love stories born in candlelit piazzas.
A trip here isn’t about rushing from sight to sight. It’s about slow mornings over cappuccino, long walks at twilight, and little discoveries that feel like your moments.
Whether you’re on a honeymoon or just sneaking away for a romantic weekend, Florence nudges you to reconnect and savor the tiny things together.
Romantic Things to do in Florence
Why I Think You’ll Love It: Florence doesn’t just top lists of the most romantic European cities—it quietly works its magic on you. By the time you leave, you’ll have stories, inside jokes, and memories that feel like they belong only to you two.
Best time to visit: April–June or September–October for pleasant weather and lighter crowds.
Currency: Euro (EUR)
Language: Italian (English widely understood in tourist areas)
Major International Airports: Florence Airport, Peretola (FLR) – or Pisa International Airport (PSA) about 1 hour away
Best Way to Get Around: Walk the historic center; use buses or taxis for longer hops
2. VIENNA, AUSTRIA
This elegant Austrian capital is pure old-world charm with a modern sparkle. From horse-drawn carriage rides past Baroque architecture to cozy wine taverns hidden in cobblestone alleys ,makes Vienna win the place as one of the best romantic getaways in Europe.
The moment you and your partner step onto its grand, music-filled streets, you’ll swear you’re gliding through a living fairytale—think imperial palaces, candlelit cafés, and melodies of Mozart floating in the air.
Vienna has been a stage for passion for centuries. Legendary composers like Mozart and Strauss turned love into music here, while its grand ballrooms once hosted royalty twirling under crystal chandeliers.
Every corner hums with stories of timeless romance!
There’s something magical about slow-traveling here—lingering over rich coffee and pastries at a centuries-old café or sharing a quiet moment by the Danube at sunset. Vienna invites you to pause, listen to each other, and let your love story dance to its own waltz.
Romantic Things to do in Vienna
Why You’ll Love It: By the time you leave, Vienna won’t just be another European city you visited—it’ll feel like the perfect chapter in your personal love story, full of music, elegance, and memories that stay long after the last note fades.
Best time to visit: Late spring or the festive Christmas market season.
Currency: Euro (EUR)
Language: German (most people in tourism speak English)
Major International Airport: Vienna International Airport (VIE)
Best Way to Get Around: Excellent trams, buses, and metro (U-Bahn); the city center is also very walkable
3. AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS
Amsterdam has a way of making couples feel like they’ve stepped into a dreamy painting. Picture glittering canals at twilight, historic gabled houses glowing in warm light, and the soft ring of bicycle bells as you wander hand-in-hand.
This romantic European gem blends cozy charm with a free-spirited vibe. Whether you’re gliding along the canals on a private boat or discovering hidden cafés, Amsterdam is one of the most enchanting cities for couples who love a mix of culture and laid-back adventure.
From the Golden Age merchants who built these elegant canal homes to the countless artists inspired by its light, Amsterdam has always celebrated passion and creativity.
The city’s open-hearted spirit makes every stroll feel like a quiet love story.
Romantic Things to do in Amsterdam
Why You’ll Love it: There’s something about pedaling side by side on a tandem bike or sharing a plate of warm Dutch pancakes that makes time slow down. The city invites couples to laugh, wander, and fall in love with the simple joys of being together.
Best time to visit: April–May when tulips are in full bloom.
Currency: Euro (EUR)
Language: Dutch (English is widely spoken everywhere)
Major International Airport: Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS)
Best Way to Get Around: Walk or rent a bike in the compact center; trams, buses, and ferries are excellent for longer distances.
4. DUBROVNIK, CROATIA
Imagine holding hands while strolling along ancient stone walls with the deep blue Adriatic sparkling below—Dubrovnik is pure romance from sunrise to starlight.
This one is one of the most romantic places in the entire Europe that blends medieval charm with breathtaking sea views. Red-tiled rooftops, marble streets, and those dramatic city walls create a fairy-tale backdrop for couples who crave both history and seaside beauty.
Dubrovnik once thrived as a maritime republic, welcoming traders and travelers from all over the Mediterranean. Its centuries of stories, whispered through fortress towers and quiet alleyways, give every walk a touch of timeless passion.
Romantic Things to do in Dubrovnik
Why You’ll Love it: Between the soft sea breeze and the sound of waves echoing against ancient stone, you can’t help but slow down and savor each moment together. Whether you’re sipping wine on a terrace or exploring narrow lanes at night, Dubrovnik invites you to be fully present with each other.
Best time to visit: May or September for warm days and fewer cruise ships.
Currency: Euro (EUR) (Croatia adopted the euro in 2023)
Language: Croatian (English widely spoken)
Major International Airport: Dubrovnik Airport (DBV)
Best Way to Get Around: Walk inside the Old Town; buses or taxis for trips to beaches and viewpoints
5. EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND
If misty hills, centuries-old castles, and cozy pubs sound like your idea of romance, Edinburgh is the perfect romantic getaway in Europe. This city feels like it was built for long hand-in-hand walks and late-night storytelling.
This place has gothic spires piercing a dramatic sky, lantern-lit alleyways, and the faint sound of bagpipes drifting through the air. Edinburgh mixes old-world charm with a creative, artsy vibe—ideal for couples who love history as much as hidden cafés.
Edinburgh’s streets have witnessed everything from royal romances to poetic love letters (Robert Burns, anyone?). The Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle practically hum with tales of passion and intrigue, making every step feel like part of a grand love story.
Romantic Things to do in Edinburgh
Why You’ll Love it: Something about the moody Scottish skies and the gentle sound of rain on cobblestones slows life down. You’ll find yourselves talking more, laughing harder, and savoring every shared moment—whether you’re exploring ancient closes or sharing a plate of shortbread.
Best time to visit: May–June or September for mild weather.
Currency: Pound Sterling (GBP)
Language: English (with charming Scottish lilt)
Major International Airport: Edinburgh Airport (EDI)
Best Way to Get Around: Walk the historic center, use local buses or trams for longer hops; taxis and rideshares for late-night trips.
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6. LUCERNE, SWITZERLAND
Lucerne has long been a crossroads for artists, poets, and travelers inspired by its breathtaking scenery. The 14th-century Chapel Bridge and its romantic tower have stood for centuries as symbols of connection—ideal for couples looking to write their own story.
This Swiss gem feels like a watercolor painting brought to life—perfect for couples who love a mix of nature, culture, and quiet charm.
So, if you dream of one of those romantic cities in European with snow-kissed peaks and a storybook lakefront, Lucerne is calling.
Whether you’re sipping hot chocolate in a lakeside café or riding a boat across Lake Lucerne, the vibe is effortlessly intimate.
Romantic Things to do in Lucerne
Why You’ll Love it: The serene lake, crisp mountain air, and slower Swiss pace invite you to simply be together. It’s the kind of place where you linger over coffee, talk for hours, and feel the everyday stress melt away.
Best time to visit: June–September for boat rides or December for a snowy wonderland.
Currency: Swiss Franc (CHF)
Language: German is most common, but English is widely understood.
Major International Airport: Zurich Airport (ZRH) is about an hour away by train.
Best Way to Get Around: Walk the compact Old Town, hop on lake ferries, or use Switzerland’s super-efficient trains for day trips.
7. Cinque Terre, Italy
Cinque Terre is a blend of sea views, pastel houses, and slow Italian living that has a special spot to be considered as the most romantic place in the entire Europe.
This UNESCO World Site has cluster of five tiny fishing villages along the Ligurian coast is a pure postcard perfection for you if you’re craving both beauty and adventure.
For centuries, these villages—Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore—were connected only by sea or steep footpaths. Their isolation kept traditions (and romance) alive, giving today’s visitors a timeless setting that feels far removed from everyday life.
Romantic Things to do in Cinque Terre
Why You’ll Love it: Life slows here. Trains run on “Italian time,” hikes reward you with stunning panoramas, and every meal is meant to be savored. It’s the perfect setting to talk, laugh, and create shared memories without rushing.
Best time to visit: May or late September to avoid peak heat.
Currency: Euro (EUR)
Language: Italian (but English is common in tourist spots)
Major International Airports: Pisa International Airport (PSA) or Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport (GOA)
Best Way to Get Around: Use the Cinque Terre Express train to hop between villages, or explore the scenic hiking trails if you’re feeling adventurous.
8. REYKJAVIK, ICELAND
Reykjavik blends dramatic Arctic scenery with warm Nordic charm—perfect for couples who love nature, adventure, and a dash of cozy nightlife.
You’ll have colorful houses against a backdrop of snowcapped mountains, geothermal pools steaming in the crisp air, and skies that glow with dancing Northern Lights.
People here – Icelanders have always embraced a life shaped by fire and ice—volcanoes, glaciers, and endless stories of Viking legends. That blend of rugged landscapes and resilient spirit creates an atmosphere that feels both untamed and intimate.
Hence this small capital offers big romance for anyone craving something beyond the ordinary which makes this place one of the best romantic European cities of the world.
Romantic Things to do in Reykjavik
Why You’ll Love it: The mix of adventure by day and cozy cafés by night encourages quiet moments and deep conversations. Whether you’re sharing a hot chocolate after a glacier hike or soaking in a steaming pool under the stars, Reykjavik invites you to slow down and simply be together.
Best time to visit: September–March for the lights; June for endless summer days.
Currency: Icelandic Króna (ISK)
Language: Icelandic (but nearly everyone speaks excellent English)
Major International Airport: Keflavík International Airport (KEF)
Best Way to Get Around: Walk the compact city center; rent a car or join guided tours for exploring the island’s natural wonders.
9. BATH, ENGLAND
Bath aka the “Queen of English Cities,” filled with history, hot springs, and Georgian charm, makes it a total heart-stealer if you’re planning a romantic getaway to England.
This city dates back to Roman times, when its famous hot springs were the ultimate destination for wellness and connection.
Later, it became a Georgian-era playground for artists and writers—including Jane Austen, who found plenty of inspiration for tales of love here.
Romantic Things to do in Bath
Why You’ll Love it: Bath’s calming atmosphere encourages lingering conversations and long walks. Whether you’re unwinding in a spa, exploring hidden lanes, or enjoying a candlelit dinner, you’ll find it easy to reconnect and create lasting memories.
Best time to visit: April–June or September for pleasant walks.
Currency: Pound Sterling (GBP)
Language: English
Major International Airports: Bristol Airport (BRS) is closest or London Heathrow (LHR) is about 1.5 hours away by train.
Best Way to Get Around: Bath is wonderfully walkable; use trains or buses for day trips to the countryside.
10. GHENT, BELGIUM
For couples who love old-world romance with a lively twist, Ghent is one of the most romantic cities in Europe you’ll ever wander through. It’s like stepping into a medieval painting—complete with canals, cobblestone streets, and a buzzing café culture.
Picture twinkling lights reflecting on quiet waterways, grand Gothic buildings glowing at night, and cozy bistros tucked into centuries-old houses.
Ghent has all the fairy-tale feels of Bruges but with a more youthful, vibrant vibe.
Once a powerful trading city, Ghent has seen centuries of art, music, and culture bloom along its canals. The majestic Gravensteen Castle and the beautifully preserved old town whisper stories of chivalry and timeless romance.
Romantic Things to do in Ghent
Why You’ll Love it: The combination of serene waterways and lively nightlife invites you to slow down yet still feel energized together. You’ll find yourselves laughing over local brews, exploring hidden alleys, and creating memories that feel both peaceful and exciting.
Best time to visit: May–September when the weather is mild and outdoor cafés buzz.
Currency: Euro (EUR)
Language: Dutch (Flemish), but English is widely spoken.
Major International Airport: Brussels Airport (BRU) is about an hour away by train.
Best Way to Get Around: Walk or rent bikes for the compact city center; trams are handy for longer hops.
11. NICE, FRANCE
This European city blends the elegance of the French Riviera with a laid-back beach-town vibe—ideal for Lovers!
Picture yourself strolling along the famous Promenade des Anglais with the sea glittering beside you, or wandering through colorful markets scented with lavender and fresh baguettes.
For centuries, artists, writers, and dreamers have flocked to Nice, drawn by its soft light and inspiring scenery. From Belle Époque mansions to lively Old Town squares, the city hums with stories of seaside romance.
Nice delivers pure Mediterranean magic for couples who love a mix of seaside relaxation, art, and French flair. Hence this place has everything that you might dream to have in the most romantic places in Europe.
Romantic Things to do in Nice
Why You’ll Love it: Between the gentle sea breeze and the slow Riviera rhythm, Nice invites you to simply enjoy each other. Whether you’re savoring seafood by the harbor or watching the world go by at a café, every moment feels like a scene from a French love story.
Best time to visit: April–June or September–October for beach days without huge crowds.
Currency: Euro (EUR)
Language: French (English is common in tourist areas)
Major International Airport: Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE)
Best Way to Get Around: Walk the Old Town, rent bikes along the promenade, or use trams and buses for easy coastal trips.
12. PORTO, PORTUGAL
I can not write a list of the most romantic cities in Europe without having Porto. With cobblestone charm and world-class wine, this city will sweep you off your feet.
This charming riverside beauty combines history, music, and mouthwatering food in a way that feels both cozy and exciting.
Porto’s history is steeped in centuries of port wine production and maritime trade. From ancient cellars to ornate churches, every stone seems to tell a story of passion and perseverance—a backdrop tailor-made for lovers.
Romantic Things to do in Porto
Why You’ll Love it: Life in Porto moves at an unhurried pace. You’ll find yourselves savoring each meal, lingering over coffee, and soaking up river views that make even quiet moments feel special.
Best time to visit: May–September for warm evenings and vibrant festivals.
Currency: Euro (EUR)
Language: Portuguese (English is widely spoken in tourist spots)
Major International Airport: Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport (OPO)
Best Way to Get Around: Explore the compact center on foot, hop on historic trams, or take a river taxi for scenic shortcuts.
13. BERGEN, NORWAY
Last but not the least, Norway’s “Gateway to the Fjords” mixes breathtaking scenery with a charming, laid-back vibe that’s perfect for couples.
Picture rows of brightly painted wooden houses along the old Bryggen Wharf, misty mountains rising behind them, and crisp Nordic air scented with the sea. Add in cozy cafés and candlelit restaurants, and you’ve got a city made for slow, hand-in-hand exploring.
Bergen’s history as a bustling Hanseatic trading port gives it an old-world romance. Its historic wharf—now a UNESCO World Heritage Site—has welcomed sailors and dreamers for centuries, making it an ideal setting for your own modern love story.
Romantic Things to do in Bergen
- Ride the Fløibanen Funicular: Watch the city and fjords spread out below during a sunset view from Mount Fløyen.
- Fjord Cruise for Two: Glide through deep blue waters surrounded by towering cliffs and waterfalls.
- Stroll Bryggen at Twilight: Wander the narrow wooden lanes as lanterns flicker and the harbor lights dance on the water.
- Cozy Up with Fresh Seafood: Share a candlelit dinner of just-caught fish in a snug harbor-side bistro.
Why You’ll Love it: The crisp air, dramatic landscapes, and relaxed Norwegian pace invite you to slow down and simply enjoy each other’s company. Whether you’re sipping hot chocolate after a chilly hike or gazing at endless fjords, every moment feels like a shared secret.
Best time to visit: June–August for long days and outdoor adventures.
Currency: Norwegian Krone (NOK)
Language: Norwegian (but English is widely spoken)
Major International Airport: Bergen Airport, Flesland (BGO)
Best Way to Get Around: Walk the compact city center, ride local buses, or take ferries to explore nearby islands and fjords.
FAQs
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What are the best times of year to visit Europe for a romantic getaway?
The best times to visit Europe for a romantic getaway are during the spring (April to June) and early fall (September to October) when the weather is mild, crowds are smaller, and you can enjoy outdoor activities and cultural experiences without the peak tourist season rush.
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Where to honeymoon in Europe?
If you’re planning a dreamy honeymoon in Europe, Florence, Italy is a top pick.
This Tuscan gem mixes Renaissance art, cozy wine bars, and sunset views over the Arno River—perfect for couples who want romance, culture, and unforgettable food all in one trip. -
Which country is the cheapest for honeymoon?
If you’re after a budget-friendly European honeymoon, Porto, Portugal is a winner. Cities like Porto give you charming riverfront views, world-class wine, and romantic cobblestone streets—all at prices that are usually easier on the wallet than spots like Italy or France.
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What is the best city break for couples in Europe?
I would highly recommend Cinque Terre, Italy. As this colorful string of seaside villages offers cliffside walks, cozy trattorias, and sunset views over the Ligurian Sea—perfect for couples craving a romantic getaway with breathtaking coastal charm.
And it’s a Wrap for The Most Romantic Cities in Europe
There you have it—twelve+ of the most romantic cities in Europe where every street, sunset, and shared meal can spark something unforgettable.
Whether you’re planning a dreamy honeymoon, a surprise proposal, or just a long-overdue getaway for two, each of these destinations offers its own brand of magic. From candlelit canals to mountain peaks wrapped in clouds, Europe is overflowing with places to fall in love all over again.
So, grab your passports, start sketching that itinerary, and let these gorgeous cities inspire the next chapter of your love story. Wherever you choose, the real romance is the journey you take together.