💖 Top 10 most romantic cities in Europe
Many people associate the European continent with castles, parks, canals, narrow streets lined with cobblestones and gingerbread houses – to some extent, this is all true. Therefore, from year to year, European cities are included in various selections of the most romantic cities on the planet. So which of them are more likely than others to hear declarations of love, marriage proposals, where newlyweds come for their honeymoon, and couples for the weekend? We've compiled a list!
Rome
The Eternal City, the cradle of romanticism, the quintessence of gastronomic pleasures and unrivaled architecture. The word “romance” itself came to us from Rome. Walking around the ancient city, dinners in fine restaurants, picnics in nature, wine, coins in the Trevi Fountain, selfies on the Milvian bridge, where lovers traditionally hang up the lock and throw away the key (I’m not a fan of such loving gestures, but who am I to spoil your romantic mood). Every couple has their own “Roman holiday” and that’s great. Rome is beautiful in its diversity, it is both universal and unique, and most importantly, incredibly romantic.
Venice
Canals between narrow Venetian streets, gondoliers in exquisite masks singing about love for you, incredible Italian sunsets, delicious ice cream, tame pigeons in the squares – the city on the water is famous for its romantic vibe. Venice turns people's heads both from water and from land. Even a weekend in this unique Italian city is enough to get your fill of romance and take a piece of it home.
Verona
One of the most famous love stories, albeit tragic, made Verona popular forever. Dozens of girls every day climb to the same balcony from where Juliet listened to serenades and confessions of Romeo in love. There is a beautiful legend that says that if a couple kisses right under the iconic balcony, then love will last forever. Why not add this lovely gesture to your romantic routine? But not just a balcony. Verona is beautiful in its authenticity and diversity: colorful markets, streets, squares, ancient buildings , houses and arches covered with ivy, St. Peter's Castle. It’s worth setting aside at least a day for a walk around the city.
Ligurian “five”
Just the word “riviera” already gives off some kind of trepidation and a bit of passion. Therefore, the Italian Riviera should definitely be on the list, albeit subjective. The Cinque Terre are five villages included in the UNESCO list. Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore. How delicious and exciting this sounds! And what it looks like! Multi-colored houses on the slopes, white sand, gorgeous beaches, breathtaking views, terraces with vineyards – Cinque Terre is like something out of a postcard, an ideal place for lovers.
Paris
It is not for nothing that it is called the city of love, lights and romance. Walking around Paris at any time of the year, you will see more than one kissing couple or a wedding photo shoot. A flair of romance, art and inspiration is in the air. Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, Champs Elysees, Moulin Rouge, Luxembourg Gardens, Montmartre, the Seine embankment, the Museum of Erotica, the Wall of Love – each of these places can become special in your love story, but you should not limit yourself to popular attractions. Sometimes get away from the tourist routes, wander through picturesque streets, numerous parks and alleys, stop by cafes for locals and discover your iconic romantic places. Although buying a couple of baguettes and croissants at a bakery, grabbing some good cheese, coffee, dessert and having a romantic picnic on the Champ de Mars is always a good idea.
Cote d'Azur
The French Riviera, a favorite vacation spot for celebrities, is a completely justified choice: the climate is amazing, the Mediterranean Sea is not capricious, and the number of villas is off the charts. Not a cheap destination, but sophisticated and romantic. France, in principle, is rich in such places; everything is attractive there: from Normandy to Provence. But the Cote d'Azur is ideal, for example, for a honeymoon or a bright, eventful vacation; you can take a trip to Marseille, Nice, Cannes, and also stop by the Kingdom of Monaco.
Bavarian castles
Neuschwanstein Castle is especially dear to my heart as it was where I went on my honeymoon. This is a beautiful place among mountains, tall pine trees, lakes and waterfalls. The castle itself looks like the perfect cover for a fairy tale book. It is not surprising that it is he who is depicted on the screensaver of all Disney cartoons and became the prototype of the sleeping beauty castle. Neuschwanstein is beautiful at any time of the year. We caught it in fog, rain, and scorching sun, with a difference of several hours, and nothing spoiled the impression, except perhaps the crowds of tourists, especially on the Marienbrücke Bridge. But it depends where you walk. Go a little off the tourist trail and you'll likely find a secluded spot for just two. No less romantic places nearby are the stunning mountain Swan Lake and Hohenschwangau Castle. There are about 300 castles in the Bavaria region itself, but I told you the most beautiful one.
Prague
Charles Bridge alone has seen thousands of love stories. This is a popular date spot even for locals. The Czech capital fills even the most stingy people with romance. How else? Long walks along the narrow cobbled ancient streets, the Vltava coast, medieval bridges, dozens of sculptures, the famous Hill of Love do their job. Prague is a great and affordable destination for a romantic weekend.
Copenhagen
A fairy-tale city from Andersen's stories, where there is its own Little Mermaid, a kissing shop, romantic piers, lookout points with amazing views, beautiful parks and gardens. Copenhagen, although not cheap, is a very cozy and pleasant city for couples. I also advise you to stop by Kronborg Castle, which is an hour’s drive from the city.
Cyprus
The island of love, beauty and Aphrodite, whose bay all lovers must visit, especially at sunset. Picturesque nature, gentle sea, delicious food – another top choice for a honeymoon or seaside vacation.
Local legend says that if lovers sail across Aphrodite's Bay at midnight, they will be happy and stay together forever.
Iceland
The choice of those couples who are looking for something completely unique. And don't let weather changes scare you. Pristine nature, waterfalls, volcanoes, geysers, caves and glaciers, the romantic “Blue Lagoon” and the opportunity to see the northern lights compensate for any inconvenience. Unlike popular tourist destinations, in Iceland you can easily find secluded corners of the island, where it will be just you and the incredible landscapes around you – such a trip will not be forgotten.
There are many more romantic places in Europe, not enough for one material, I have collected here only the most popular destinations for a vacation and a weekend for two. European architecture, cuisine, nature and the hospitality of the locals will certainly help strengthen your relationship. So let your personal map of the most romantic places only grow. After all, I know from experience that sometimes some random alley in the suburbs of Budapest or the rooftops of Turin can become iconic and the most special only for the two of you. So have a bright and hot trip.