In the age of ‘Brexit’, it’s easy to forget what incredible romantic cities the ‘old continent’ has to offer. Below, we have detailed eight of the best, including both more and less obvious options, not least as the latter can often make more sense for those on a tight budget.
However, if you are in the latter category, even the most sought-after European romance capitals aren’t necessarily beyond your financial reach. Why not consider travelling during a less popular period such as the autumn, taking a cheaper indirect flight or looking for the discounts frequently offered by online voucher code specialists like My Voucher Codes for Thomson and other in-demand travel operators?
Venice
We’ll start with one of the most famous romantic hotspots. Located in North-East Italy, Venice is the perfect place to sit back and cuddle close to your partner as you travel down its stunning canals in a gondola. Boasting endless passageways and a host of cosmopolitan bars overlooking the canal, this famously romantic city is quite breathtaking.
Paris
Paris is another much-loved destination for loved-up couples, and for good reason. What could be more romantic than gazing up at the imposing Eiffel Tower, strolling around Notre Dame Cathedral or just exploring the city’s characterful boulevards in the warm summer sun with your loved one? This picturesque, charming location is sure to get your heart racing.
Madrid
Full of surprises, Madrid is the perfect city for a romantic break. Surround yourself with the elegance of Buen Retiro Park – often described as the ‘lungs’ of Madrid. Given its imposing water features and a huge range of flowers that provide a burst of colour all year round, you couldn’t pick a more romantic setting in which to relax after a long day spent exploring.
Tallinn
Nestled in the Baltic region is Estonia, with its cosmopolitan capital city of Tallinn that is sure to stir your soul. With its fascinating mix of Nordic and European influences, this city is diverse and astoundingly beautiful. Sample Estonia’s unique cuisine at one of its many candlelit cafés and enjoy a slice of Estonian heritage by visiting the fascinating Köismäe Tower, as suggested by the visitestonia.com website, before finishing your day by watching the sun go down at the top of Kissing Hill. You can’t get any much more romantic than that!
Lisbon
The beautiful Portuguese city of Lisbon boasts the Gothic cathedrals and stately homes that are perfect for transporting you back to long-gone days. Among the elegant architecture, you will be spoilt for choice with bustling bars bearing a wealth of Latin American and European influences. Let the abundance of live music that rings out from this wonderful city enchant your soul, then cuddle up and take in the natural wonder of the Tagus Estuary Natural Reserve.
Copenhagen
Denmark’s capital city is compact, intimate, packed full of majestic architecture and bursting with history. Although it has Michelin-starred restaurants aplenty – perfect for treating your loved one to a bite to eat – Copenhagen might not be at the top of everyone’s list of romantic cities, but it can certainly outshine some of the best. You can even make your love external by writing your names on a padlock at Byggebroen Bridge, as written about by the Bitten By The Travel Bug blog.
Barcelona
Barcelona will always be admired for its striking Gothic cathedrals and seemingly endless parks steeped in natural beauty, as well as its iconic Gaudí architecture. Put short, this coastal city really is an absolute must if you are looking to spend some quality time with a loved one.
Boasting a maze of cobbled streets packed with vintage bars, cafés and restaurants, Barcelona offers many a hidden gem to excite the senses. With its bustling nightlife scene, this Catalan city is popular with tourists from all over the globe, so why not head down to the beach after a long day and enjoy a bit of seclusion as you watch the sunset?
Amsterdam
This Dutch city has a certain air of tranquillity about it, making it an ideal place if you’re looking for a more relaxing romantic getaway. Enjoy a bike ride for two around this famous old city, taking in the sights, smells and sounds as you go.
As with Venice, you will be able to sit back and relax in Amsterdam as you sail down its pristine canals with your loved one. Oh, and Amsterdam also has an array of vintage shops to browse, so it couldn’t be easier to find your beloved that something special to take home.
Enjoy your trip!
