12 Most Romantic Cities In Europe For A Dreamy Weekend Away | 2024


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This post is all about Most Romantic Cities In Europe.

12 Most Romantic Cities In Europe | 2024

Europe is an incredibly romantic continent with its wonderful culture, picturesque towns, architecturally beautiful cities, and stunning scenery. You cannot go wrong with a city break to somewhere in Europe with your partner.For this blog post, I'm focusing solely on romantic European cities because if I was to write about every romantic destination in Europe, then I'm be forever writing. Fear not, I will cover romantic destinations in Europe in a later post, so make sure you subscribe to keep up-to-date with new releases.I've personally visited most places on this list, so can personally vouch for how beautiful and romantic they are.Whether you want to go on a romantic weekend away somewhere with hot weather, or cold weather or even, somewhere a wee bit different, then I've got you covered. You're sure to find the perfect place for you on this list!Let's get started!This post covers Most Romantic Cities In Europe.



12 Most Romantic Cities In Europe

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam is the capital city of the Netherlands, famously known for its beautiful townhouses, picturesque canals, and tulip fields.  

There’s so much to keep you busy in Amsterdam from strolling around the compact city centre and soaking up the wonderful architecture, to visiting the world-class museums including the Van Gogh museum and the Rijksmuseum


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Recommended Activities For Amsterdam:

You could even pick up some delicious Dutch cheese and beer for a romantic picnic in Vondelpark, grabbing a stroopwafel for the walk, and in the evening, go for a romantic canal cruise, allowing you to see the city from a different perspective.

Read my 3-Day Amsterdam Itinerary to help you plan your trip here. 

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Recommended Accommodation For Amsterdam:
★★★★ Boutique Hotel The Craftsmen, Amsterdam, Netherlands
Set in Amsterdam, less than 1 km from Royal Palace Amsterdam, Boutique Hotel The Craftsmen features views of the city. The property is around 1.
★★★★★ Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel Maurits at the Park - Small Luxury Hotels, Amsterdam, Netherlands
Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel Maurits at the Park - Small Luxury Hotels is located in the Oosterpark in a former monumental university building, next to…
★★★★★ The Dylan Amsterdam - The Leading Hotels of the World, Amsterdam, Netherlands
Boutique hotel The Dylan is set along the Keizersgracht canal, in the heart of Amsterdam. Dam Square is a short walk away.
Amsterdam, Netherlands

Athens, Greece

Athens is the capital city of Greece and is one of the oldest cities in the world, steeped in thousands of years of history and culture.   

Athens is the ultimate all-rounder on this list, with many ancient ruins and museums to explore, beaches only a short distance away, gorgeous rooftop bars overlooking the incredible Acropolis and Pantheon which dominates the city skyline, vibrant nightlife and wonderful hot temperatures.


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Recommended Activities For Athens:

For that extra bit of romance, enjoy a picnic up Philopappos Hill as you watch the sunset, look at the stars from the National Observatory, or catch a show at the Herod Atticus Odeon.

If you can extend your trip, then Athens is a great base to allow you to visit some of the nearby islands including Hydra and Sifnos.

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Recommended Accommodation For Athens:
Altar Suites, Athens, Greece
Well located in Athens, Altar Suites provides an à la carte breakfast and free WiFi.
★★★★ Niche Hotel Athens, Athens, Greece
Set in Athens and with Acropolis Museum reachable within 200 metres, Niche Hotel Athens offers concierge services, allergy-free rooms, a restaurant, free…
★★★★ MiraMe Athens Boutique Hotel-House of Gastronomy, Athens, Greece
Featuring a terrace, a restaurant as well as a bar, MiraMe Athens Boutique Hotel-House of Gastronomy is located in the centre of Athens, 400 metres from…

Bruges, Belgium

Bruges is a stunning city in Northern Belgium, carved out by stunning canals, lined with cobbled streets and charming historic buildings.

There's not loads to do in Bruges, but even just walking about this beautiful city and admiring the views is well worth the trip alone.


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Recommended Activities For Bruges:

From taking some time to wonder around the lovely market square and burg square, climbing up the Belfry tower at sunset for panoramic views, going on a canal cruise, and sitting and relaxing in Minnewater lake. This quaint little town makes for the perfect romantic getaway.   

Bruges is only 1 hour 20 minutes from Belgium’s capital city, Brussels, so if you’ve got about 4 days spare, you should try and visit both on your city break. Read my blog post about going on a day-trip from Brussels to Bruges.

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Recommended Accommodation For Bruges:
’t Hartje van Brugge, Bruges, Belgium
Located in the centre of Bruges, ’t Hartje van Brugge is a sustainable accommodation, which provides soundproof rooms.
★★★★ Boutique Hotel De Castillion - Small elegant family hotel, Bruges, Belgium
Hotel de Castillon is a small and elegant hotel in Bruges with a central location.
★★★★★ The Notary, Bruges, Belgium
A bed and breakfast nestled in the centre of Bruges, The Notary features private parking, free WiFi, an infinity pool and garden.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Dubrovnik is a beautiful city in the south of Croatia, surrounded by the crystal waters of the Adriatic sea, which is led to it being dubbed ‘the Pearl of the Adriatic’. 

The Old Town of Dubrovnik is encircled in massive ancient stone walls, which were constructed in the 16thcentury. You can walk the full length of these walls and along the way, will be treated with panoramic views over the terracotta rooftops of the city. 


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Recommended Activities For Dubrovnik:

Dubrovnik is an incredibly romantic city with its cobblestone streets and narrow alleyways, leading to lovely courtyards often with outdoor seating for restaurants, allowing you to enjoy a delicious glass of wine after a day of sightseeing. 

If you are looking for a wee bit more adventure, take the cable car up to Mount Srd for a romantic picnic or go on a sunset kayaking tour which will take you around Lokrum Island as you watch the sun disappear. 

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Recommended Accommodation For Dubrovnik:
★★★★ Bota Palace, Dubrovnik, Croatia
Situated in the centre of Dubrovnik, Bota Palace features accommodation with free WiFi in a historic building.
★★★★ Boutique Hotel Stari Grad, Dubrovnik, Croatia
Fully renovated in the summer of 2013, Stari Grad is one of only 2 hotels within the Old Town walls of Dubrovnik.
★★★★★ Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik, Dubrovnik, Croatia
Located on the doorstep of Dubrovnik’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik boasts an indoor pool and a wellness centre with…
Dubrovnik, Croatia

Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh is Scotland’s Capital City, and is one of the most beautiful, unique, and romantic places to visit for a city break.

Edinburgh is a city of two halves: a medieval Old Town and a cosmopolitan Georgian New Town. With its cobblestone streets, incredible architecture, and rich history, it really is a place unto its own. 


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Recommended Activities For Edinburgh:

Explore the famous castle, which dominates the city skyline, walk the Royal Mile, visit the beautiful Circus Lane and Deans Village, or hike up Arthur’s seat or Calton hill to experience the sunset over Edinburgh. 

It doesn’t just stop there, the city also has a fantastic mix of independent shops, restaurants, and bars. So, you definitely won’t be stuck for things to do!

Edinburgh is a place that will stay with you forever!

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Recommended Accommodation For Edinburgh:
Cheval Abbey Strand Apartments, at Holyrood, Edinburgh, UK
Located on the grounds of Holyrood Palace, Abbey Strand Apartments, at Holyrood offers self-catering accommodation.
★★★★★ Virgin Hotels Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
Featuring a fitness centre, a restaurant as well as a bar, Virgin Hotels Edinburgh is located in the centre of Edinburgh, 300 metres from The Real Mary…
★★★★★ Gleneagles Townhouse, Edinburgh, UK
Featuring a fitness centre, a terrace as well as a bar, Gleneagles Townhouse is set in the centre of Edinburgh, 400 metres from Edinburgh Waverley station.
Edinburgh, Scotland

Florence, Italy

Florence is the capital of Italy’s Tuscany region. It is a truly beautiful city steeped in history and culture, home to world-class museums including the Uffizi, and the Accademia Gallery, and wonderful architecture including one of the most beautiful Cathedrals that I’ve ever seen. 

For the ultimate romantic trip, stroll through the city admiring the beauty of the buildings along the way, watch the sunset from the Piazzale Michelangelo, which offers panoramic views over this special citytake a cruise down the River Arno, and go on a wine tour around the Tuscany region


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Recommended Activities For Florence:

Florence is famous for its Florentine Steak and Chianti Red wine – what a perfect combination. It would be rude not to stop off somewhere to try it, it is the culture after all!! 

Read my 7-Day Tuscany Itinerary for an unforgettable trip to Florence, Pisa, Sienna and to the beautiful Cinque Terre. 

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Recommended Accommodation For Florence:
★★★★ Hotel Calimala, Florence, Italy
Featuring a fitness centre, a terrace as well as a bar, Hotel Calimala is located in the centre of Florence, 800 metres from Santa Maria Novella.
★★★★★ Helvetia&Bristol Firenze – Starhotels Collezione, Florence, Italy
Set in a 19th-Century historical palazzo in the centre of Florence, Helvetia&Bristol Firenze – Starhotels Collezione is 5 minutes’ walk from the Duomo and…
★★★★★ Hotel La Gemma, Florence, Italy
Situated conveniently in Florence, Hotel La Gemma offers air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi, private parking and room service.
Florence, Italy

Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon is Portugal’s colourful capital city, known for its rich history, wonderful architecture, and hills… lots of hills! Don’t worry too much about the hills as they have a really good tram system which will get you from A to B. 

Lisbon was recently voted the most romantic city in Europe, beating the likes of Venice, Paris, and Prague to claim the top spot. 


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Recommended Activities For Lisbon:

There’s lots of romantic things for you and your partner to do on your city break to Lisbon including going for a picnic up to the Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara gardens or enjoying panoramic views over the city from the Santa Justa viewpoint.

Walk the charming area of old Lisbon (Alfama), go on a wine tasting, cuddle up with your partner as you sail down the Tagus River on a sunset cruise, and then, enjoy a candlelight dinner together.

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Recommended Accommodation For Lisbon:
Casa Balthazar, Lisbon, Portugal
Located a 3-minute walk from the Restauradores and Rossio metro stations, Casa Balthazar offers modern, self-catering units with free WiFi.
★★★★ Convent Square Lisbon, Vignette Collection, an IHG Hotel, Lisbon, Portugal
Boasting a shared lounge, a terrace as well as a bar, Convent Square Lisbon, Vignette Collection, an IHG Hotel is situated in the centre of Lisbon, 100…
★★★★★ Altis Avenida Hotel, Lisbon, Portugal
The 5-star Altis Avenida Hotel offers luxury accommodation in the heart of Lisbon city.
Lisbon, Portugal

Paris, France

I couldn’t not include the original city of love on this list. Romance is practically in the air in Paris and oh, boy be prepared for seeing your fair share of proposals on your trip there (I mean I only went for 3 days and saw 7 proposals; each as elaborate as the next). 


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Recommended Activities For Paris:

For that ultimate romantic getaway, make sure you don’t miss these whilst you’re in Paris including visiting the palace of Versailles and going on a boat trip on the grand canal, strolling along the Champs-Élysées to the Arc de Triomphe, and taking in the wonders of the Louvre.

Then, have a takeaway dinner or picnic by the Eiffel Tower, cruise down the river Seine, and watch the sunset from the Sacré Coeur

Make sure to take their café culture seriously by regularly spotting off for a coffee and a croissant. 

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Recommended Accommodation For Paris:
★★★★ Les Rives de Notre-Dame, Paris, France
Situated in the Latin Quarter facing Sainte-Chapelle, Les Rives de Notre-Dame offers traditional Parisian style accommodation in the romantic centre of…
★★★★ Hotel du Petit Moulin, Paris, France
Located in the Marais district of Paris, Hotel du Petit Moulin is a boutique hotel entirely decorated by Christian Lacroix.
★★★★★ Hôtel D’Aubusson, Paris, France
This 17th-century private mansion is set in the Latin Quarter, just 350 metres from Odéon Metro Station.
Paris, France

Prague, Czechia

Prague is the unique and vibrant capital city of Czechia, with cobbled streets, gothic architecture, charming squares, and elaborate bridges. 

It is a city steeped in history, from having the largest ancient castle in the world, Prague Castle, to having the third-oldest astronomical clock in the world in the Old Town square. You’ll truly enjoy sightseeing around this beautiful medieval city!


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Recommended Activities For Prague:

Enjoy the sunset at Charles Bridge and then, go on a romantic cruise down the Vltava River. Don’t forget to pack a padlock for your trip to Prague, so you and your partner can attach it to the famous Lover’s Bridge.  

Whilst you are in Prague, make sure you try the traditional Czech Trdelník, which is a delicious sweet pastry cake. 

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Recommended Accommodation For Prague:
★★★★ MOSAIC HOUSE Design Hotel, Prague, Czech Republic
Set in Prague, 1.4 km from Charles Bridge, MOSAIC HOUSE Design Hotel offers accommodation with free bikes, private parking, a garden and a restaurant.
★★★★★ Andaz Prague - a Concept by Hyatt, Prague, Czech Republic
A luxury lifestyle hotel, Andaz Prague is located on Senovážné Square, in the heart of the historical center of Prague.
★★★★★ Golden Well, Prague, Czech Republic
The boutique Golden Well hotel enjoys one of the best locations in Prague, with Prague Castle right next door, 7 minutes’ walk from Charles Bridge and 3…
Prague, Czechia

Reykjavik, Iceland

If you are seeking somewhere with adventure, then Reykjavik is the place to go. 

Reykjavik is the capital city of Iceland and even though it is the coldest destination on this list, it certainly makes up for the lack of heat with stunning scenery, dramatic landscapes, incredible tours, and a chance to see the Northern Lights!!

And fear not, if you are freezing then you can even soak in the wonderfully warm blue lagoon to help heat you up.  


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Recommended Activities For Reykjavik:

To make your trip even more unforgettable, you can go on a whale watching tour, go on a guided glacier hike, or go on a tour to the golden circle

Iceland is out-of-this-world – it is a place that will leave you with memories for a lifetime!

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Recommended Accommodation For Reykjavik:
Kvosin Downtown Hotel, Reykjavík, Iceland
Set on a square behind Reykjavík Cathedral and the Icelandic Parliament, this hotel offers modern rooms with free Wi-Fi access and Nespresso coffee…
★★★★ Reykjavik Konsulat Hotel, Curio Collection By Hilton, Reykjavík, Iceland
This hotel is located about 5 minutes’ walk from Harpa Concert Hall.
★★★★ Eyja Guldsmeden Hotel, Reykjavík, Iceland
Located next to Hlemmur Square, this hotel is just off Laugavegur, the main shopping street in Reykjavík. It offers a view over the city and Esja Mountain.
Reykjavik, Iceland

Salzburg, Austria

Salzburg in Austria looks like it is straight out of a Disney film, with a 900-year old fortress sitting proudly above the historical and architecturally beautiful city centre, with views over to the Eastern Alps.

Salzburg has a couple of claims to fame; the old town has a UNESCO World Heritage Status, the city was also the birthplace of the world-famous composer, Mozart, and it was the filming location for the "The Sound Of Music".


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Recommended Activities For Salzburg:

On your romantic trip, walk through the city admiring the architecture, enjoy a Mozart concert and have dinner or drinks at the IMLAUER sky bar for wonderful views over to the fortress.

If you have time to spare, head to the nearby picture-perfect village of Hallstatt. Read my guide to the best things to do in Hallstatt for some inspiration.

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Recommended Accommodation For Salzburg:
★★★★ Small Luxury Hotel Goldgasse, Salzburg, Austria
The Small Luxury Hotel Goldgasse occupies a 14th-century building located in a pedestrian area in the heart of Salzburg’s historic Old Town.
★★★★★ Hotel Sacher Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
Opened in 1866, the privately owned Hotel Sacher Salzburg is a grand, historic hotel which combines timeless elegance and tradition with highest standard…
★★★★★ Hotel Goldener Hirsch, A Luxury Collection Hotel, Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
Situated in the famous Getreidegasse in Salzburg’s Old Town, Hotel Goldener Hirsch - a Luxury Collection Hotel, Salzburg is directly opposite the Festival…
Salzburg, Austria

Seville, Spain

Seville is one of the most beautiful and romantic cities in Spain. This vibrant city experiences lovely warm weather year-round, meaning that it is perfect to visit in any season.  

Treat yourself to a hotel with a pool especially during the summer to allow you to cool off from the scorching sun. 


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Recommended Activities For Seville:

The city is a mix of narrow cobbled streets and large plazas with incredible architecture. You can expect a colourful, fun city with rich history, flamenco dancing and delicious tapas.  

Make sure you visit the stunning Royal Alcázar of Seville, go for a stroll in the Parque de María Luisa, hire a rowboat at Plaza de España, spend a day relaxing at the beach, and in the evening, head to the rooftops to enjoy a drink overlooking the city. 

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Recommended Accommodation For Seville:
★★★★ Los Seises Sevilla, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, Seville, Spain
Set in a historical 16th-century building and part of the Archbishop’s Palace, Los Seises Sevilla, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel is just 150 metres from…
★★★★ Vincci Molviedro, Seville, Spain
Vincci Molviedro features an outdoor swimming pool, terrace, a restaurant and bar in Seville.
★★★★★ Radisson Collection Hotel, Magdalena Plaza Sevilla, Seville, Spain
Radisson Collection Hotel, Magdalena Plaza Sevilla has a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, fitness centre, a terrace and restaurant in Seville.
Seville, Spain

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Kirsty x


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