Europe boasts some very romantic cities and destinations thanks to it’s Romeo & Juliet-esque vibes and buildings/landscapes that look straight out of a Jane Austen novel.
And don’t think these locations are only destined for loved up couples and honeymooners, because these places will make you fall in love in a different kind of way. This love won’t steal all the covers and chew with its mouth open either.
15. Lake Bled, Slovenia
Nothing says romance quite like paddling out in a row boat on one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. Row to the small island in the middle of the lake which a small church sits upon for some ‘Notebook’ vibes or wander up to the Blejski Grad (Bled Castle) for spectacular views. Lake Bled is surrounded by mountains which offers opportunities for hikes to even more breathtaking viewpoints.
14. Mostar, Bosnia & Herzegovina
A stunning small town centerred around the beautiful ‘Old Bridge’ with many opportunities for hikes or adventure activities. Enjoy the peace and quiet of this small town but make sure to check out Kravice Falls nearby and the beautiful town of Blacaj.
13. Dubrovnik, Croatia
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Dubrovnik is one of the biggest hotspots in Europe, mostly due to the beautiful locations used to film much of the popular TV series, Game of Thrones. Take a cable car up the mountain and dine watching the sun set over the city, hang out at the infamous Buza Bar (a bar on the side of a cliff) or walk around the city walls for picturesque views.
12. Salzburg, Austria
Enjoy this charming town and walk through the gardens that were the backdrop for some scenes in The Sound of Music. Visit a real life castle and eat delicious Austrian dishes like schnitzel and strudel. What more could you want?
11. Seville, Spain
The architecture in this vibrant city is enough to make your heart melt. The beautiful Plaza de Espana (pictured) has even been the backdrop for many movies and TV series (Game of Thrones again).
10. Brugge, Belgium
This beautiful small town in Belgium is filled with cute canals, unique ‘lego-like’ buildings and great shopping. Belgian waffles by morning, Belgian chocolate for the afternoon and Belgian beer by night. Perfect. Make sure to check out the 2be Beer Wall for a unique selection.
9. Ljubljana, Slovenia
If a picture says a thousand words, then this thousand would include a lot of words synonymous with elegant, beautiful and charming. Find colorful buildings, stunning bridges and plant life like no other city I’ve seen. The river is lined with restaurants and Lake Bled is a short day trip away (two romantic places, one airplane ride).
8. Kotor, Montenegro
Climb up to the fort for these picturesque views or enjoy the dining and entertainment inside the old town walls. The Bay of Kotor is Europe’s southernmost fjord and the rocky coastline makes for a stunning view at every turn.
7. Hvar, Croatia
Beaches, sunset bars, waterfront restaurants and opportunities to take day trips to the Blue and Green caves and it’s no wonder its one of the most popular summer destinations in Europe right now.
6. Porto, Portugal
The birthplace of Port wine, there are many cellars offering cheap cellar tours and tastings. This is also a perfect place to try the favored dish of the Portugese, Bacalhau (cod). Enjoy your meal with stunning views as most of the city is situated on a descending slope, down to a large river.
5. Colmar, France
This town seriously looks like it has been plucked from the set of Sleeping Beauty or Snow White. Colmar is influenced by German and Swiss architecture as it is just over the border of both and whilst you won’t find copious amounts of things to do here, you can visit their ‘Little Venice’ and just wander the fairytale-esque streets.
4. Paris, France
Cliche, but true, Paris is one of the most romantic places you could find. River cruises, manicured gardens, fantastic dining, cute cafes and stunning Parisian architecture with the dazzling (and sometimes sparkling) Eiffel Tower make for a very romantic backdrop.
3. Venice, Italy
Riding a gondola through the water streets of Venice, sipping champagne and being serenaded by your gondolier. I don’t think I need to say more.
2. Positano, Amalfi Coast
Colourful towns along stunning cliff lines, with views over the sea, Positano is both romantic and beautiful. The town boats many heritage buildings and luxury hotels with old school elegance. Pair this with the gorgeous views and Italian dining and you have a pretty great recipe for romance.
1. Santorini, Greece
The most amazing views and perfect summer weather. All of the greek islands are equally as beautiful in their own way, but Santorini tops the list for the most romantic. The views are unmatched with many options for luxurious cliffside hotel rooms with private pools/spas and charming restaurants watching one of the world’s most famous sunsets. You can go hiking, swimming, shopping, enjoy the natural hot springs near the center of the volcano or just relax and wine & dine yourselves to your hearts content.
Let me know what European towns or cities you would include in this list.
