Discover the most romantic getaways in Europe you’d want to plan ASAP for an incredible couples holiday in Europe in 2023.
There is nothing more exciting than planning a romantic getaway with your loved one, and what better place to do that than Europe, right?! 😉
Whether it’s to celebrate a special moment, an anniversary, a romantic honeymoon, or simply just to travel with your loved one, I’ve got some great ideas to inspire your romantic holidays in 2023.
These are all beautiful, romantic destinations in Europe where Marius and I have traveled together since we’ve been a couple and had an incredible time.
To make things special for you, besides the famous destinations such as Paris, Venice, or Positano, I’ve included some lesser-known cities in Europe that totally deserve a visit.
Best Romantic Couples Getaways in Europe
1. Venice, Italy
Venice is definitely one of the most romantic cities in the world and a great destination for couples.
Having spent Valentine’s Day here this year, I am very confidently adding it to the top of my list of romantic getaways in Europe for 2023!
This old, unique city will delight you with its majestic architecture, rich history, picturesque canals, and incredible food.
Romantic couples activities in Venice:
- take a romantic gondola ride
- kiss your loved one on top of San Marco Square in the Campanile Bell Tower
- explore Venice by night: walk along the Canale Grande and the famous Rialto Bridge
Discover more amazing things to do in Venice and how to spend 3 unforgettable days right here.
2. Amalfi, Italy
With picturesque houses bordering the Mediterranean Sea and narrow, centuries-old streets this little town in Italy will completely take your breath away!
Amalfi is one of the most famous romantic getaway destinations and for good reason. The great weather, stunning views, and delicious food make it a top honeymoon destination in Europe as well.
Romantic couples activities in Amalfi:
- explore the old town, walk through its old narrow streets and visit the main square
- have dinner in one of the beautiful restaurants in the old town
- take a romantic boat ride along the Amalfi Coast for some stunning views
Steal our 5-Day Amalfi Coast Itinerary for the perfect couples holiday in Italy.
3. The French Riviera, South of France
The South of France, and particularly the French Riviera is a top European travel destination and definitely a great place for a romantic getaway with your partner.
And for good reason. Who wouldn’t want to sail across the beautiful turquoise water of the Mediterranean, wander through the picturesque Nice old town, or admire the glamour of Monaco?
Romantic couples activities on the French Riviera:
- take a romantic walk on the world-famous Promenade des Anglais in Nice
- have dinner at the luxurious beach restaurant in Cannes
- visit the cute, little village of Ville-France sure Mer
Discover the best cities on the French Riviera you definitely wouldn’t want to miss.
4. Rome, Italy
It’s time to bring a major European capital to this list of romantic getaways across Europe, and it’s not the one you might have thought, is it?! 😉
To me, Rome is one of the best and most romantic cities you can visit in Italy and one of the best places to visit holding hands with your favorite person. There is no other city so full of culture and history quite like Rome.
Romantic couples activities in Rome:
- take a Vespa ride through the city
- visit the Colosseum and walk in the footsteps of ancient Romans through the Roman Forum
- toss a coin into the world-famous Trevi Fountain
5. Paris, France
Ok, feel free to roll your eyes at me right about now. Of course you know Paris is one of THE most romantic getaways in Europe, nothing new here. But that’s exactly why I couldn’t leave it off my list.
Even though I much prefer Rome or Venice, there is just something about the Parisian charm that can’t be denied.
It was also one of the first destinations Marius and I traveled together as a couple.
Paris is perfect for a romantic couples getaway with so many wonderful things to do and see. Here are some ideas.
Romantic couples activities in Prais:
- walk through the Jardins de Tuileries
- kiss on top of the Eiffel Tower
- take a romantic boat ride on the Seine
6. The Loire Valley, France
The Loire Valley is an incredibly romantic destination to explore with your partner.
The region is maybe not as famous as the French or Italian riviera, but it has SO much to offer. I’ve had it on my bucket list for many years and I was so happy to be able to explore it recently.
The Loire Valley is located in central France, along the river Loire and it is easily reachable within a 2,5-hour drive from Paris.
Romantic couples activities in the Loire Valley:
- visit the glamourous castles in the Loire Valley: Chateau Chambord, Chateau de Chenonceau, and Chateau Amboise
- have a wine tasting- the region is renowned for its white wines
7. Lake Como, Italy
The Como Lake region is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Italy and I’m sure it’s already all over your Instagram feed.
Whether you’ve had this stunning place on your travel bucket list for a while or maybe just started looking into it, there are SO many romantic things to do in Lake Como.
The beautiful villas bordering the lake, the fairytale villages like Bellagio or Menaggio, and the scenic boat ride will delight you and your partner and make you want to come back for more.
Romantic couples activities in Lake Como:
- walk through the old streets on Bellagio
- visit the gorgeous Villa del Balbianello – a famous spot for weddings or romantic dates at Lake Como
- enjoy a gelato by the lakeside at Menaggio
8. Positano, Italy
Positano is one of the most beautiful places on the Italian Amalfi Coast, with spectacular mountain rocks and houses bordering the blue Mediterranean sea.
Just like Capri, Positano is a VERY popular destination for honeymooners from all over the world but also a romantic weekend getaway destination for Europeans.
If you are planning a day visit, make sure to arrive early – LIKE VERY EARLY MORNING, especially in summer, as parking in Positano is a nightmare. By 8-9 AM, most parking spots close to the beach are already taken.
Should that happen, you need to be prepared (both mentally and physically) for A MILLION stairs leading down to the village and the beach. It is completely worth the effort though. 😉
Romantic couples activities in Positano:
- rent a boat and enjoy the stunning views along the Amalfi Coast
- take a trip to Capri
- explore the old town
9. Bruges, Belgium
Ok, let’s leave Italy for a while and head North towards Belgium and the beautiful city of Bruges.
You will absolutely love discovering the old cobbled stone streets, the gingerbread-looking houses, and the winding, romantic canals through the city center.
Bruges is located in the Northern part of Belgium and can be reached within a 1 hour 30 minutes drive from Brussels or 1 hour by train.
My favorite thing about Bruges is the chocolateries! They are everywhere and lure you in with free samples of the most delicious chocolate you have ever tasted!
There are even chocolate tours organized, check them out here.
10. Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Let’s now go even more North to The Netherlands, and its capital Amsterdam, before getting back to more Italian romantic destinations. 😉
I know what you might be thinking: Amsterdam and romantic getaways don’t really go hand in hand. Amsterdam is more like fun, sexy bachelorette parties or girlfriends’ trips.
You’d be surprised to know that Amsterdam can actually be an incredibly romantic city and I totally recommend it for a couple’s getaway.
There are so many wonderful things to do here (I would know, been living in Amsterdam for the past 10 years).
Romantic activities for couples in Amsterdam:
- take a romantic canal cruise or walking tour
- visit the tulip fields next to Amsterdam
- kick-off the night with a delicious cocktail and the best view in town at the SkyLounge Bar
- take a day trip from Amsterdam and explore the beautiful Dutch villages
11. Portofino, Italy
You are going to love Portofino! This stylish little resort located in the Liguria Region is Itlay at its best: stunning views of the Mediterranean coast, colorful old buildings, and gorgeous villas. It reminds me a little bit of Positano and that Amalfi Coast vibe.
Romantic activities for couples in Portofino:
- walk along the port, have a coffee or lunch at one of the many restaurants in the center
- go up the hill to St. George Church for some stunning views of the village from above
- walk along the Coast to Santa Margherita Ligure
And since we are talking a lot about Italy here, check out this post on 10 essential travel tips for your first visit to Italy.
12. Sibiu, Romania
As promised, let’s explore a lesser-known romantic getaway destination in Europe but equally beautiful.
Sibiu is this incredibly picturesque, medieval town, located right in the center of Romania, in the heart of Transylvania.
The mix of beautiful Germanic architecture in the old town, its rich history, and impressive cultural events (such as the International Theater Festival – 2nd biggest in Europe) make it a perfect and unique travel destination for couples.
Romantic activities in Sibiu:
- explore the old town: The Large Square & Small Square
- step on the Liar’s Bridge – watch out, everything you say here is considered to be a lie 😉
- climb up the Council Tower for some great views from above
Did you know Sibiu also has one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe? Make sure to add it to your travel list right away, you won’t regret it!
READ NEXT: 23 Beautiful Places To Visit in Romania that will make you fall in love with it.
13. Prague, Czech Republic
Even though we spent only one day in Prague, we completely fell in love with this city!
The Czech Republic’s capital is most known for its Old Town Square in the heart of the historic center, the famous Charles Bridge, and its colorful baroque buildings.
Prague definitely deserves its spot on this list of European romantic getaways and is the perfect destination for a couples holiday.
14. Sienna, Italy
We can’t really talk about romantic escapes in Europe without bringing Tuscany into the picture.
Siena, this charming, little village in Italy is a great place to visit during a couple’s weekend abroad. It is home to beautiful medieval buildings and a uniquely shaped central square – Piazza del Campo.
You can easily reach Siena during a day trip from Florence, as it’s located only 85km away.
15. Zermatt, Switzerland
If nature is more your thing and you are looking for a romantic getaway with your partner that is not a city trip, then I have the PERFECT place for you!
Zermatt is this fabulous mountain resort in Switzerland with breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps and of the most famous mountain in the world – the majestic Matterhorn.
There are so many wonderful things to do and discover in Zermatt, making it a perfect destination for a romantic trip.
Romantic activities for couples in Zermatt:
- have a couples spa day with the most beautiful view in the world at Riffelhaus
- hike through the Swiss Alps and visit the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise
- have a romantic dinner with a stunning view at the Old Zermatt restaurant in the heart of the city
If you are wondering where to stay in Zermatt, I believe we found the best boutique hotel for a great, pampered experience in the Swiss Alps. Check out the full review of the Matterhorn FOCUS Hotel here.
16. Florence, Italy
Another perfect destination for a romantic couples’ getaway in Europe is Florence. You will absolutely fall in love with this gorgeous, historical city in the heart of Tuscany.
Home to globally known landmarks such as the Duomo Cathedral or the Galleria dell’Accademia which Michelangelo’s David sculpture, Florence is one of the most visited cities in Italy.
17. Vienna, Austria
Austria’s capital, Vienna is also a great destination for a romantic getaway.
This historical and vibrant city will delight you with its imposing imperial palaces, beautiful architecture, and rich cultural life.
A visit to the famous Schönbrunn Palace or exploring the old city center is definitely a must-do during your stay in Vienna.
And if you happen to be here around Christmas time, you will get to enjoy one of Europe’s best Christmas markets!
Romantic Getaways in Europe
They say that you truly get to know a person when you travel together.
I hope these incredible destinations in Europe have inspired your upcoming romantic getaways together with your loved one and that you’ll have a wonderful time together!
Happy travels!
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