As the festive cheer of Christmas fades away, and with Valentine’s Day looming on the horizon, my mind has been swirling with thoughts of the most romantic places in Europe. The recent engagement with my boyfriend, Ben, has only intensified these musings. Especially as we find ourselves at the exciting crossroads of choosing the perfect honeymoon destination after our upcoming wedding.
Reflecting on our year-long adventure of working remotely in Europe, where we explored 30 diverse countries, the decision-making process has become both exciting and challenging. Should we indulge in the classic allure of a sun-kissed Mediterranean island, seek adventure amid the breathtaking Swiss Alps, or immerse ourselves in the rich culture of a cosmopolitan gem like Budapest?
The list that follows comprises destinations that hold a special place in our hearts. Locales where we’ve created cherished memories and envision returning to celebrate our marital bliss. If you find yourself grappling with the dilemma of selecting the perfect honeymoon destination, or if you are just looking to plan a romantic holiday in Europe, this post aims to guide you. Whether you recognize these names or they are hidden gems waiting to be discovered, rest assured, each possesses a unique charm, promising a romantic escape that is both timeless and unforgettable.
1. Ortigia, Sicily, Italy
Let’s start with a country famous for love – Italy! More specifically, on the Island of Sicily, in Ortigia, you will find a small seaside town oozing with romance. Here you can experience everything you adore about Italy but without the mass amounts of tourists. Imagine hot days, tucked away swimming coves, authentic Italian cuisine, bustling markets in town, and ancient architecture – Now ‘that’s amore’!
Rent a car to explore the island and visit other coastal towns like Taormina and Cefalù on the island. Don’t forget to pack your bathing suit, unless skinny dipping is more your style! For a more detailed itinerary, be sure to read my 7-day guide to Sicily!
2. Santorini, Greece
As soon as you walk the streets of Oia and see the sun dip behind the horizon during one of Santorini’s famous sunsets, you’ll understand why Greece is one of the most romantic places in Europe. On top of that, you’ll be treated to delicious Greek cuisine, endless views, beaches, and a relaxed way of life. And if you are looking for Greek Islands with fewer crowds, but are still equally romantic, I highly recommend Milos or Crete.
Be sure to read my Travel Guide to Santorini, Travel Guide to Milos, and 24-Hours in Athens when planning your romantic getaway to Greece.
3. Paris, France
It might be cliché, but Paris truly is one of the most romantic places in Europe, if not the world! However, don’t be tricked into believing you have to spend a fortune in order for your Paris experience to be romantic. Some of the simplest moments can take your breath away in Paris! For example, head to Shakespeare and Company bookstore and write your sweetheart a love letter or poem on a vintage typewriter upstairs.
Or buy some chilled rosé, cheese, and a freshly baked baguette and set up a picnic on the Seine overlooking the Eiffel Tower. And end your day up at the Sacre Coeur Cathedral for sunset. Here you can sip on wine while admiring the spectacular views of the city from the steps. After, wander around the cobbled streets and find the perfect candlelit restaurant to recount your days.
4. Budapest, Hungry
Budapest is a city draped in glitz and glamour but is also raw from its rough history during WWII. This interesting contrast and cosmopolitan energy make Budapest one of the most romantic places in Europe!
During your visit, be sure to visit one of the many ancient thermal spas, the most famous being Széchenyi Thermal Bath. Then enjoy lunch at one of the elaborate coffee houses, and take an evening dinner cruise along the River Danube to see the city and the Hungarian Parliament Building all lit up.
Having now visited Budapest three times, I can attest that it’s a beautiful and romantic destination at any time of the year. For a unique honeymoon, visit Budapest in December to see all the Christmas Markets and beautiful holiday decorations. I loved our trip so much, that I have written an itinerary for those visiting Budapest in the winter. You can read it here!
5. Portugal
Portugal is the perfect country to spend your honeymoon! The country is filled with delicious food, friendly people, and beautiful cities & towns. Not to mention, the price of your trip won’t cost you a fortune. The only hard decision you’ll have to make is where to spend your time. Here are a couple of my favourite spots to pick from.
Be sure to read my 3-Day Lisbon Itinerary, and 3-Days in Porto Travel Guide when planning your trip to this romantic destination.
- Lisbon: The capital of Portugal and a vibrant city filled with unique rooftop bars, castles, and restaurants. It’s known to be the San Francisco of Europe!
- Porto: An underrated historic city that boasts Portugal’s authentic charm. Enjoy its incredible cuisine, port cellars, and famous azulejo tiles displayed on traditional buildings.
- Douro Valley: One of the world’s oldest wine regions and a UNESCO heritage site. Drive or take a river cruise up the Douro River and try the wine and locally made port amongst a stunning backdrop.
- Sintra: Explore Pena Palace, beautiful gardens, and the most enchanting town.
- Algarve: Craving a more relaxing honeymoon? Head to the Algarve where you can bask on some of the most beautiful beaches. Or rent a boat and discover secret seaside caves.
6. Edinburg, Scotland
Edinburg might not be the first place you think of when it comes to romance, but when you visit this city, you can’t deny there’s something magical in the air. Spend your days wandering around this charming city, explore Edinburgh Castle, go gin tasting, or cozy up together in a cobblestone cottage by a fireplace.
Edinburg is also filled with romantic restaurants like the 1600’s Prestonfield House. Before dinner, stroll their gardens and say hi to their highland cows. Then relax with a pre-dinner cocktail in one of their elegant rooms.
For more romantic restaurants or hidden speakeasies, make sure to read my Edinburgh Restaurant Guide.
7. Krakow, Poland
Visiting Krakow can feel like you’ve fallen into a fairytale, and all you need is your prince charming. Take a horse-drawn carriage to Wawel Royal Castle, watch the sunset from Akademia Muzyczna [a secret local spot that hasn’t been overtaken by tourists], or stroll hand-in-hand around the riverside and listen to buskers’ serenade you into the night.
For an intimate evening, eat authentic Polish cuisine at W Starej Kuchni Restaurant. Then have a drink at Café Camelot before heading to an underground jazz show at Piec Art Acoustic Jazz Club.
Oh, and did I mention that Krakow is one of the cheapest places to travel to in Europe? Bonus!
8. The Alps: Chamonix, France & Verbier, Switzerland
For the more adventurous couple, who love escaping into the mountains, the Swiss or French Alps will be the most romantic places in Europe. Hike your way around Mount Blanc in the summer months, and enjoy skiing in the winter months. I highly recommend exploring both Chamonix, France and Verbier, Switzerland.
Cozy up in the evenings and enjoy cheese fondue with wine followed by some of the best chocolate in the world. The beautiful scenery around you will leave you in a constant state of awe.
Read Next: 20 Photos to Inspire you to Visit the Alps
9. Copenhagen, Denmark
Science has proved that adrenaline rushes can lead to sexual attraction, which is why the Tivoli amusement park should be your first stop in the city of Copenhagen. Ride their rollercoasters, wander through their stunning gardens or come in the evenings to marvel at their incredible fireworks display.
But if amusement parks and adrenaline rushes aren’t your thing, Copenhagen has so much more to offer!
Experiencing Copenhagen’s hygge-vibes and seeing the new and old Scandinavian architecture all around the city make it one of the most romantic places in Europe. And since it is one of the most bike-able and swimmable cities in the world, take a bike ride out to La Banchina – a restaurant where you can swim, drink, eat and even relax in their sauna.
For a full four-day Copenhagen itinerary be sure to read: A Blissful Copenhagen Itinerary. On here I cover where to eat, sip, sleep and explore! This detailed travel guide is one of my most popular posts.
10. Croatia
What’s more romantic than relaxing at a beach bar with an Aperol Spritz in hand? After visiting Croatia, there was no question that this country is one of the most romantic places in Europe.
Spend your mornings exploring the ancient walled city of Dubrovnik. Cool off from the afternoon sun by swimming in the Adriatic Sea. And take in striking sunsets while enjoying a seafood feast in the old town.
From Dubrovnik, either island-hop around Croatia (Hvar & Brac were our favourites) or discover the beauty of Plitvice Lakes’ waterfalls in northern Croatia. This country is the perfect unique honeymoon spot for couples that like a mix of adventure and relaxation!
11. Sans Sebastian, Spain
One place that does not get talked about enough is San Sebastian, located in the north coast of Spain, right on the border of France. This area, known as Basque Country, has a cool mix of laidback surf culture, world-renowned cuisine and modern luxury.
Foodie couples will delight in the fact that San Sebastian has the most Michelin starred restaurants per square meter in Europe. Spend some of your meals splurging on fine dining and fresh seafood, and other days wandering around the cobblestoned old town and discovering pintxo bars along the way. What are pintxo bars, you may ask? They’re similar to tapas bars with bite-sized foods with locally paired wines, and a whole lot of fun!
12. Malta
They say that Malta is Europe’s best-kept secret and they are right! Discovering a place that feels off the beaten path and unknown can be a thrilling experience for a couple.
Malta’s cities are raw and colourful, their beaches are plentiful, and the harbour is always bustling. Malta is the perfect honeymoon location for couples who are looking for a hot destination with beautiful scenery and unique culture. Plus, you can splurge on accommodations or experiences like sailing to the Blue Lagoon, since everything else is so cheap (think €1.50 for a beer, €9 for a nice dinner)!
If Malta is your honeymoon destination, be sure to read: The Ultimate Malta Travel Guide
13. Prague, Czechia
Another inexpensive, yet remarkably romantic place in Europe is Prague! It’s not hard to be swept up by Prague’s charm with its cobblestone streets, medieval Astronomical Clock, and beautiful Gothic buildings that make the historical center a World Heritage Site.
For couples who love beer, don’t miss your chance to experience an unforgettable beer bath and spa date. Otherwise, admire the city during a Danube river cruise, and learn more about its history by visiting the Old Royal Palace. I also recommend climbing to the top of the Astronomical Clock for sunset and crossing over the famous Charles Bridge, hand-in-hand, to see the city all lit up at night.
If you are willing to travelling in the winter, Prague absolutely magical to visit in December, while the Christmas markets are taking place!
14. Kotor & Perast, Montenegro
Famous for jaw-dropping views of its towering fiords, Montenegro is a feast for the eyes. On top of this Montenegro is ridiculously inexpensive, and still a bit off the radar with tourists. Overall, Montenegro is perfect for the more adventurous couple who want to hike, swim while still soaking up the culture of these quaint old towns.
We mostly explored Kotor and the charming town of Perast, and I recommend you do the same. Staying in this beautiful area made us fall in love with Montenegro and gave us access to beautiful hikes, beaches, and other outdoor activities.
Persat is an intimate seaside town, where we enjoyed the most romantic dinner under the stars. Whereas Kotor has a bit more tourism, so you will find more of a vibe and more restaurants and bars. During your visit, don’t miss walking the Ladder of Kotor and the old city wall. I promise the view is worth the burn of climbing 1350 steps! Plus, there is no better way to bond with our significant other than hiking a mountain together.
15. French Riviera & Provence
Beyond the capital city, France offers so many charming towns and areas to explore. But the two areas that are the most romantic for honeymooners are Provence and the French Riviera (also known as the Côte d’Azur).
Stay in Aix-en-Provence for a couple of days, and from here drive around to see the beautiful lavender fields and picturesque towns (Look up: Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, Gordes, and Ménerbes). Also, don’t miss out on their incredible food markets and try the madeleines – trust me, they’re delicious!
After travelling around Provence, head down to the French Riviera and explore the coast. This area is crawling with the rich and famous, so keep your eyes peeled for celebrities around Cannes, Saint-Tropez, and Nice. We ran into Rod Stewart when we were there! Also, if you adore secluded beaches and hiking, then you must check out Calaquanes National Park. Lucky for you, I wrote a whole blog post about how to best visit this beautiful part of the country.
Read Next: A Guide to Hiking Calanques National Park in Southern France
Where Would You Go for a Romantic Getaway in Europe?
And that concludes my list of the most romantic honeymoon places in Europe. Out of all the cities I mentioned, which do you think are the most romantic? Or have I missed some of your favourites? Tell me in the comments below!
Overall, I hope you discovered some new locations you hadn’t thought of before and it inspires you to go somewhere new for your honeymoon or for a romantic getaway!
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