Last Updated: January 3, 2024
Europe has some of the world’s oldest and most beautiful cities, picture-perfect islands, and quaint villages, offering an abundance of great options for someone who’s looking for the most romantic cities in Europe. We love mini getaways in Europe, especially when we want to celebrate a special occasion. Each of the destinations we’re recommending below is unique. Whether you’re looking for a buzzing city, a luxurious holiday on a Mediterranean island or you crave moments of solitude in the tranquil countryside with your significant other, you’re sure to find it at one of the destinations below.
Continue reading to find out which are the most romantic cities in Europe and get ready to be inspired.
15 MOST ROMANTIC CITIES IN EUROPE
1. PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC
Prague is a fairytale city, adapting beautifully to all 4 seasons, making it one of the top romantic cities in Europe. In the summer you won’t be able to resist the cute cafes with the outdoor sitting and the bustling neighborhoods, whereas in winter, it completely transforms into a winter wonderland. Spring and autumn are also a fantastic time to visit as Prague bursts with romantic vibes when the flowers are in full bloom and likewise during the foliage. Prague is one of the most romantic cities in Europe, offering beautiful architecture – the Prague Castle being the crowning jewel of the city – and great restaurants where you can cozy up with your other half, over a glass of wine and a delicious meal.
2. VENICE, ITALY
Every corner of Venice oozes romanticism. It is a dreamy city and the perfect place to be if you’re an incurable romantic. The labyrinth-like narrow alleys of the town and the Venetian Gothic architecture will have you feeling as if you’ve teleported to a bygone era. The gondola ride is a must! It is an experience that you cannot get anywhere else in the world and if we’re being honest, it truly is a unique way to explore the city. Venice is one of the most romantic places in Europe that everyone must visit at least once in their lifetime.
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3. PARIS, FRANCE
This list would be incomplete without Paris! The city of light is one of the best romantic destinations in Europe and we dare say, in the entire world. The language, the food, the thousand sparkling lights of the Eiffel Tower can soften the heart even of the most cynical ones. Eat your way through Paris’s bakeries and right before sunset, pick a romantic cafe, with views over the Eiffel Tower and enjoy a glass of bubbly. Everyone has a soft spot for Paris so it is unsurprising that this wonderful city is one of our top recommendations of the most romantic cities in Europe.
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4. VALLETTA, MALTA
Valletta is one of the most charming cities in Europe. Its medieval architecture will instantly steal your heart and although the city is very small, we feel that that’s to its advantage. You can find cozy wine bars, excellent restaurants, and design boutique hotels all within a short walking distance. Valletta is buzzing with people all day long but as the sun sets it becomes particularly beautiful, especially during the summer. Be sure to book a table at the Bridge Bar on a Friday evening and enjoy a bottle of wine while listening to live Jazz music. It will be an experience to remember for the years to come. Valletta is one of the most wonderful places we can think of when we’re asked which are the most romantic cities in Europe.
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5. SANTORINI, GREECE
Santorini is one of the best anniversary destinations in Europe; it is called the honeymoon island for a reason. The picturesque whitewashed buildings carved on the cliff and the azure Aegean sea create an extraordinary contrast, unlike anything you’ve ever seen in your life! You will fall in love with the island as soon as you begin walking down the narrow cobblestone alleys and lay eyes on the striking unobstructed views of the caldera. On this beautiful island, we witnessed the most stunning sunset to date so be sure to arrive in time to see the sunset on the horizon. The best time to visit Santorini and avoid the big crowds is between mid-May and June or in September. Santorini is our top recommendation if you’re looking for the most romantic places in Europe for couples.
6. GRANADA, SPAIN
Spain has no shortage of amazing places to explore but when it comes to the most romantic cities in Europe, our easy answer is Granada. We love cities that offer unique architecture and the imposing palace of Alhambra certainly delivers at that. Explore Granada the Spanish way; take your time and stroll leisurely through its winding streets, stopping every so often at quaint tapas bars to savor local cervezas and mouth-watering tapas. If you have enough days in Granada, we’d highly suggest that you take advantage of the extra time and drive to Seville.
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7. ISTANBUL, TURKEY
Istanbul is a wonderful destination to explore with your favorite person in the world. It is a massive city offering a plethora of amazing things to do. From impressive palaces to captivating mosques and from picturesque neighborhoods to its delightful culinary scene, Istanbul is a must-visit destination in Europe. Don’t miss out on your chance to explore the gorgeous neighborhood of Balat; one of Istanbul’s most vibrant areas. Istanbul holds a very special space in our hearts and we strongly recommend it if you’re on the lookout for the most romantic cities in Europe.
8. VIENNA, AUSTRIA
Vienna is an all-time favorite destination for architecture buffs from across the world. Even if you’re not into architecture, we guarantee you that the eclectic, jaw-dropping architecture of the buildings that are peppered all across the city, will awe you. That will keep you busy for a few hours but what will quickly distract you, is the city’s famous desserts. We’re certain that you’ll fall in love with Vienna and that is why this gorgeous city deserves a place on our list of the most romantic cities in Europe.
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9. KRAKOW, POLAND
There are many cities in Poland that are worth your attention but Krakow should definitely be on your bucket list. The beauty of Krakow lies in its distinctive architecture, especially around the old square. One of the most romantic things to do in Krakow is taking a ride in a horse-drawn carriage. It’s a unique way to see the city and take in the beauty of the old town. Be sure to try pierogies and the local beers. Heaven!
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10. AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS
Amsterdam’s unparalleled beauty will most likely have you wishing that you’d visited sooner. It is the combination of the canals, the bridges connecting the banks, and the blossoming trees along the banks that make Amsterdam so irresistible and quite frankly one of the most romantic cities in Europe. The city has an incredible vibe, with many great restaurants, bars, and coffee shops to choose from that you’re guaranteed to never have a dull moment.
Be sure to visit during the summer for your chance to experience some of the city’s outdoor fairs and events.
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11. BRUGES, BELGIUM
Bruges is a city in Belgium that looks right out of a fairytale. The city is magical all year round and we recommend that you spend at least two days to see it. The pace here is a little slow, perfect for a romantic getaway if you ask us. It’s the little things that make Bruges one of the best romantic destinations in Europe; except obviously its awe-inspiring architecture. The colorful buildings with the terracotta-tiled roofs and the beautiful flowers decorating the balconies, make Bruges look like a painting. We don’t think it can get more romantic than that so we feel that Bruges effortlessly gained its spot in the list of the most romantic cities in Europe.
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12. FLORENCE, ITALY
Ah, Italy! We know we’ve already mentioned an Italian city here but we can’t help but add one more to the list of the most romantic cities in Europe. The entire Tuscany region is engulfed in a romantic aura but if a road trip across the countryside is not what you’re after, then Florence is where you want to be. No better place to feast on food than Italy; mouthwatering gelato, finger-licking pizzas, pasta, and divine wines; need we say more?
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13. CORSICA, FRANCE
Corsica is the ultimate destination if you’re looking for the most romantic cities in Europe. The island has some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe and it offers a unique combination of dramatic lush landscape, picturesque villages, and some of the clearest turquoise waters you’ve ever seen! For an experience of a lifetime, book a private boat where you can have a romantic sunset dinner while you take in the spectacular views.
READ ALSO: 8 WARM PLACES TO VISIT IN FEBRUARY IN EUROPE – PERFECT FOR WINTER SUN
14. LISBON, PORTUGAL
This is one of the top romantic cities in Europe if you’re looking for a bustling city that offers both interesting attractions and fun nightlife. Lisbon is a lively city with awesome bars and restaurants to relax after a long day of exploring, as well as unique attractions that are not to be missed. If you’re a foodie like us, then that’s another reason why we’re sure you’ll fall in love with this wonderful city. Don’t miss out on the local port wine and do not leave Lisbon if you haven’t tried the heavenly pasteis de nata; a Portuguese sweet delicacy that can easily become an addiction. You’ve been warned.
15. BUDAPEST, HUNGARY
Last but certainly not least on our list of the most romantic cities in Europe, is the gorgeous city of Budapest. There are many reasons why we love this city. In Budapest, you will find the largest thermal baths in Europe, which attract flocks of tourists every year. What’s more, Budapest has some of the most remarkable buildings in the world, with the landmark being the Hungarian Parliament Building. This marvelous building overlooks the Danube River and is a must-see attraction when in Budapest.
