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Thinking about whisking your partner away for some quality time together? Well... nowhere does romance quite like Europe – with its charming cobbled streets, stunning architecture, and dreamy landscapes – you simply can’t go wrong with a trip to this incredible continent!
I’ve had the pleasure of exploring most of the places on this list, so you’re getting first-hand recommendations. Whether you’re after a sun-soaked getaway, a cultural city break or a cosy retreat somewhere cold, there’s a spot on this list that’s perfect for every couple!
And if you’re looking for even more ideas tailored to the seasons, don’t miss my Best Places to Visit in Europe in Spring and Best Places to Visit in Europe in Summer blog posts!
Let’s dive into the ultimate guide to swoon-worthy European cities that are ideal for your next romantic getaway.
This post is all about Most Romantic Cities In Europe.
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12 Most Romantic Cities In Europe
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam is ideal for couples seeking a romantic escape. With its network of canals, picture-perfect townhouses, and vibrant tulip fields, it feels like you’ve wandered into a real-life fairytale.
This compact, walkable city is packed with things to do. A typical day in the city looks like strolling hand-in-hand through its stunning streets, marvelling at the gorgeous architecture, and immersing yourself in world-class museums like the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum.
If you're in the mood for a romantic picnic, grab some of the Netherlands’ famous cheese and beer, and head to Vondelpark – don’t forget to pick up a stroopwafel for your walk!
For the perfect evening in the city, hop aboard a canal cruise to experience Amsterdam from the water. Watching the city's twinkling lights reflect off the water is nothing short of unforgettable.
Are you looking for some help planning your trip to Amsterdam? Then, check out my 3-Day Amsterdam Itinerary for the ultimate romantic getaway guide!
Athens, Greece
If you're looking for the perfect mix of history, beauty, and romance, Athens has got you covered. Being one of the oldest cities in the world, it's literally brimming with thousands of years of history and culture.
With ancient ruins and fascinating museums to explore, stunning beaches just a short hop away, and rooftop bars with jaw-dropping views of the Acropolis and Pantheon, it’s hard to beat. Add in the great nightlife and warm, sunny days, and you’ve got an unforgettable romantic getaway.
For that extra romanticism, pack a picnic and head up Philopappos Hill to watch the sunset, stargaze at the National Observatory, or enjoy a show at the Herod Atticus Odeon.
And if you can extend your stay, Athens makes a fantastic base for exploring nearby islands like Hydra and Sifnos—perfect for a day trip or two!
Bruges, Belgium
With its picturesque canals, cobbled streets, and stunning historic buildings, Bruges is a dream destination for couples!
There might not be a ton of things to do, but honestly, just wandering around this beautiful city and enjoying the views is enough to make it worth the trip. Whether it’s exploring the lovely Market Square and Burg Square, climbing the Belfry Tower at sunset for those epic panoramic views, cruising along the canals, or just chilling by the serene Minnewater Lake, Bruges has all the ingredients for a perfect romantic escape!
And the best part? Bruges is only 1 hour and 20 minutes from Brussels, so if you’ve got a few days to spare, why not visit both cities on your trip? Check out my blog post on how to do a day trip from Brussels to Bruges.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Dubrovnik's Old Town is a real treat. It is surrounded by massive 16th-century stone walls that you can walk the entire length of, offering stunning panoramic views of the city’s iconic terracotta rooftops and the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic Sea.
The city is made up of charming cobblestone streets and narrow alleyways that lead to beautiful courtyards, often filled with cosy outdoor restaurants and cafes – the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy a glass of wine with your significant other.
If you're craving a bit more adventure, hop on the cable car up to Mount Srd for a romantic picnic with a view, enjoy a sunset kayaking tour around Lokrum Island, or escape to one of the nearby islands for a more laid-back vibe.
Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh is hands down one of the most beautiful, unique, and romantic spots for a city break. With its winding streets, stunning architecture, and fascinating history, it’s got an aesthetic and backstory that is distinctly its own.
This city is split into two: the medieval charm of the Old Town and the stylish elegance of the Georgian New Town. Both areas are packed with independent shops, quirky restaurants, and cool bars, so you’ll never run out of things to do.
Make sure you take time to explore the majestic Edinburgh Castle and wander down the iconic Royal Mile, or simply chill out and enjoy a picnic in Princes Street Gardens. If you’re after a breathtaking view, hike up Arthur’s Seat or Calton Hill for an unforgettable sunrise or sunset over the city.
For a budget-friendly getaway, be sure to check out my blog post on free things to do in Edinburgh!
Florence, Italy
Steeped in history and culture, Florence is home to world-class museums like the Uffizi and the Accademia Gallery, plus jaw-dropping architecture, including one of the most beautiful cathedrals I’ve ever seen!
For the ultimate romantic getaway, take a leisurely stroll through the city, soaking in the beauty of the buildings around you. Don’t miss the chance to watch the sunset from Piazzale Michelangelo, offering panoramic views over the city – it’s pure magic.
For dinner, don’t miss what Florence is famous for—its mouthwatering Florentine steak paired with a glass of Chianti red wine. Afterwards, wind down with a cruise along the River Arno—the perfect way to end a perfect day.
If you’re looking to extend your trip, I’ve got a 7-day Tuscany itinerary that takes you through Florence, Pisa, Siena, and the stunning Cinque Terre. It’s the exact itinerary I followed a couple of years ago, and it made for an unforgettable holiday!
Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon is known for its relaxing atmosphere and beautiful sights! But it's also very hilly, don’t let that put you off though as the city has an excellent tram system that’ll whisk you from A to B in no time. It's all part of the Lisbon charm!
Recently crowned the most romantic city in Europe, Lisbon outshone iconic destinations like Venice, Paris, and Prague to claim the top spot. While this might surprise some, Lisbon offers plenty of romantic experiences to back up the title including going for a picnic in the Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara gardens or taking in panoramic views over the city from the Santa Justa viewpoint.
It doesn’t stop there—strolling through the charming Alfama district, embarking on a wine-tasting adventure, cuddling up for a sunset cruise along the Tagus River, and ending the evening with a candlelit dinner are just a few more experiences that make Lisbon the perfect romantic escape!
Paris, France
I couldn’t possibly leave out the original city of love from this list! Romance practically fills the air in Paris, and trust me, you’ll see your fair share of proposals while you’re there (I only spent three days in the city and witnessed seven – each one more elaborate than the last!).
When you visit Paris, make sure you tick off a few must-sees including visiting the stunning Palace of Versailles and taking a boat trip down the Grand Canal, strolling along the famous Champs-Élysées to the Arc de Triomphe, and losing yourself in the wonders of the Louvre.
The most magical evening I had in Paris was grabbing a takeaway pizza and wine, and sitting along the River Seine with a view of the Eiffel Tower – it was unforgettable! You can also take a cruise down the Seine (try to time it for the Eiffel Tower’s sparkling lights) or catch the sunset from the Sacré-Coeur. And don’t forget to embrace Parisian café culture – savour every chance to enjoy a delicious coffee and croissant!
Prague, Czechia
Prague is bursting with gothic architecture, charming squares, and stunning bridges. From the world’s largest ancient castle, Prague Castle, to the third-oldest astronomical clock in the world in the Old Town Square, you’ll be blown away by the sights and the stories this city has to tell.
For the ultimate romantic getaway, catch the sunset over Charles Bridge, then hop on a romantic cruise down the Vltava River. And don’t forget to bring a padlock with you – attach it to the famous Lover’s Bridge as a sweet token of your time together.
While you’re there, make sure you try the traditional Czech Trdelník – a delicious pastry cake – sure to make your trip that little bit sweeter!
Reykjavik, Iceland
If you're after a bit of adventure, Reykjavik is the place to be. Iceland's quirky capital may be the coldest destination on this list, but it more than makes up for it with jaw-dropping scenery, dramatic landscapes, and the chance to catch the Northern Lights – how romantic is that?
For even more unforgettable experiences, you could go whale watching, take a guided glacier hike, or explore the stunning Golden Circle! And don’t worry about the freezing temperatures – you can always warm up by soaking in the toasty Blue Lagoon.
Iceland is otherworldly – leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime!
Salzburg, Austria
Salzburg is like stepping straight into a Disney movie. With its 900-year-old fortress towering above the city’s stunning historic centre with panoramic views of the majestic Eastern Alps, Salzburg is as picturesque as it gets!
Salzburg has a few cool claims to fame too. The Old Town is UNESCO-listed, it’s the birthplace of the legendary Mozart, and it was also the filming location for The Sound of Music (cue the sing-alongs).
While you're there, take the funicular to the incredible fortress, wander through the Mirabell Gardens, and enjoy a Mozart concert. For unbeatable views, head to the IMLAUER Sky Bar for a sunset drink or dinner.
And if you’ve got a bit of extra time, make sure to visit the beautiful village of Hallstatt nearby – my guide to the best things to do in Hallstatt has everything you need to know about a trip there!
Seville, Spain
Seville is hands down one of the most beautiful and romantic cities in Spain. With its lovely warm weather year-round, it’s the perfect place to visit no matter the season.
If you’re heading there in summer, treat yourself to a hotel with a pool to cool off as it can get particularly warm during this season.
Seville is a gorgeous mix of narrow streets and grand plazas. The atmosphere is lively, colourful, and brimming with culture, flamenco dancing, and – of course – delicious tapas.
While you're in Seville, don't miss the stunning Royal Alcázar, meander through the beautiful Parque de María Luisa, and hire a rowboat at the iconic Plaza de España. You can also spend a day at the beach or, when the sun sets, head to one of the city’s rooftop bars for a cocktail with a view.
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This post is about Most Romantic Cities in Europe. Thanks for taking the time to read this blog, it’s much appreciated!
Kirsty x
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