Europe is full of romantic spots. With castles, winding paths through medieval cities, views of sparkling water from cliffs and intimate cafes in which to sip coffee with your significant other, it’s easy to plan a Valentine’s Day holiday anywhere on the continent.
Need some destination ideas?
1. Amalfi Coast, Italy
The Amalfi Coast is one of the top romantic spots in Italy
Located on the south coast of the Sorrentine Peninsula, the Amalfi Coast is one of those sigh-inducing spots complete with picturesque and colorful villages set against a 43-mile stretch of coastline. Valentine’s Day is the off-season, and with a mild winter, it makes it a perfect spot for romance. Stay in Positano and take trips down to Naples, Pompeii or even a boat to Capri. Be sure to take time to sip limoncello, a strong liqueur the area is known for making.
Read more about romance on the Amalfi Coast
2. Dubrovnik, Croatia
How can you not fall in love in front of this view?
The weather may not be warm, the sun may not always be out, but Dubrovnik is romantic year-round. The old city, surrounded by ancient walls, provides plenty of opportunities to get lost in little side streets. For amazing views of the Adriatic, head up to walk the walls of the city.
3. Paris, France
No romantic trip to Paris would be complete without a visit to the Eiffel Tower
Of course, no “romantic spots in Europe” list is complete without a mention for Paris. The architecture, River Seine, cafes that line the streets … they’re all reasons to spend some time in this beautiful city, even in the middle of winter. Bundle up and head to the top of the Eiffel Towerfor a breathtaking panorama of the city, then head out to wander the streets of Montmartre hand-in-hand. No Valentine’s Day is complete without trying some of the city’s world-famous chocolates.
Read more about romantic Paris
4. Lake Lucerne, Switzerland
Lake Lucerne
With the snow-capped Alps and medieval buildings as a backdrop, it’s easy for romance to be inspired. Located in north central Switzerland, Lake Lucerne is the place to get bundled up and stroll hand-in-hand around the old city. Be sure to check out the Chapel Bridge and the Lion Monument.
Read more about romance in Switzerland
5. Santorini, Greece
Santorini
The Aegean Sea paradise of Santorini regularly makes the list as one of the most romantic spots in the world. With its whitewashed buildings, blue-capped churches and stunning views of the sea from a top Fira’s caldera, it’s easy to see why. Take a donkey ride or hop on a boat to check out a steaming volcano, and then unwind in hot springs and tour a vineyard.
Read more about romantic things to do in Santorini
6. Venice, Italy
Get serenaded on a gondola in Venice
Another must on any romantic list; Venice is perfect for Valentine’s Day. Take a romantic gondola ride through the canals to see the colorful aged homes, and then wander the streets, stopping in Saint Mark’s Square.
Read more about romantic things to do in Venice
7. Prague, Czech Republic
Prague is romantic day and night
Bundle up and explore the gorgeous city of Prague in the Czech Republic. Colorful buildings, Gothic churches, a castle and little, intimate restaurants await couples in search of a perfect Valentine’s Day.
8. Budapest, Hungary
Love is in the air in Budapest
Located on the banks of the River Danube, Budapest and its gorgeous buildings alone make it romantic. Add in the allure of the Széchenyi Thermal Bath – an indoor and outdoor area with pools, saunas and spas, plus the old Castle District with spots to take in the dramatic city split by the river, and the stage is set for love. Known as the “Pearl of the Danube”, book a cruise to see Buda and Pest from an entirely different vantage point.
9. Sintra, Portugal
Visiting Sintra makes for a great romantic day trip from Lisbon
Sintra, a quick train ride from Lisbon, takes couples into a fairytale world where views of the Atlantic are as mesmerizing as views from the top of the hilltop castle. Take some time and explore the little streets of town that are packed with cafes, restaurants and shops.
10. Hamburg, Germany
Hamburg at night
Oft referred to as the “Venice of the North,” Hamburg has more bridges than Venice and Amsterdam and plenty of romantic spots to cuddle up and take in the view of its numerous canals and lakes. Walk along the harbor promenade, Landungsbrücken and then visit St. Michaelis Church.
Book a Valentine’s Day activity and read more about Romantic Travel
Planning a trip? Browse Viator’s Romantic Valentine’s Day tours and activities, including a Romantic Horse and Carriage Ride through Paris and Amsterdam Canals Candlelight Cruise.
February 13, 2012 at 11:45 AM
One more thing about Venice, did you know it receives over 1000 letters around Valentines Day (which is today if you are in New Zealand) addressed to Juliet Capulet?
February 14, 2012 at 8:54 PM
Great list. I can vouch for Venice and Budapest. Switzerland and the Amalfi Coast are on my list for this summer.
February 15, 2012 at 2:04 AM
Sintra Portugal is full of interestingly beautiful castles. I would suggest Monserrat for its lush get lost in gardens, with Banyan covered ruin or Quinta da Regaleira for mysterious wells & fairy tale bowers. Stick to the less crowded venues or you will feel like herds of sheep romantic or not!
February 8, 2013 at 3:25 PM
Sorrento & The Amalfi coastline are just beautiful…Enjoy these romantic locations ?
February 10, 2013 at 8:25 AM
Sintra & Prague are nice place enough to visit. But i would like to visit Venice. I think this place is the best place to celebrate the Valentine’s Day.
Thanks for such a good list.
February 12, 2013 at 3:07 AM
I’ve been to most of the places on your list and would have to agree that they are, indeed, romantic. They’re all beautiful but I think Santorini would have to be the most romantic of the lot.
February 12, 2013 at 4:42 AM
All the best and marvelous places to celebrates the valentine’s day.Paris is my favorite place.Thank u for giving nice information.