If you’re looking for the best city breaks for couples, there are plenty of great options in Europe. From Paris dubbed the ‘city of love’ to the romantic canal ways of Venice, Europe is brimming with romantic cities perfect for a weekend away with your loved one.
It’s no surprise given the old cobbled alleys, historic buildings and enchanting castles that Europe is famous for.
With Valentine’s day coming up soon, why not treat your loved one to a surprise romantic city break? Here is plenty of inspiration with 15 of the best city breaks for couples in Europe as voted by travel experts.
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What you can expect from this article…
- 1 15 of the Best City Breaks for Couples in Europe
- 1.1 Barcelona City Breaks for Couples
- 1.2 London City Breaks for Couples
- 1.3 Salzburg City Breaks For Couples
- 1.4 Rome City Breaks for Couple
- 1.5 Colmar City Breaks for Couples
- 1.6 San Sebastian City breaks for couples
- 1.7 Seville City Breaks for Couples
- 1.8 Paris City Breaks for Couples
- 1.9 Plovdiv City Breaks For Couples
- 1.10 Amsterdam City Breaks for Couples
- 1.11 Sibiu City Breaks for Couples
- 1.12 Vienna City Breaks for Couples
- 1.13 Bruges City Breaks for Couples
- 1.14 Madrid City Breaks for Couples
- 1.15 Luxembourg City Breaks for Couples
15 of the Best City Breaks for Couples in Europe
Barcelona City Breaks for Couples
By Ben Holbrook of DriftwoodJournals.com
With its sun-kissed Mediterranean climate, shimmering beaches and ancient old town, Barcelona in Spain, makes for a truly rousing retreat for couples in search of romance.
Amble your way arm in arm through the Gothic Quarter’s labyrinthine alleyways, pausing for tapas and Catalan vino at Ocaña in the palm-filled Plaça Reial (just off Las Ramblas). Cruise the boardwalk that hugs the city’s 5 km coastline on a bike and indulge in perfect paella with sea views at Can Fisher.
Enjoy a double dose of art and culture at the Museu Picasso or escape to the subterranean utopia of Aire Ancient Baths for sensual spa treatments and couples massages.
Take a quick siesta before heading out for drinks and dinner. Explore contemporary Catalan flavours and natural local wines at the cool-but-casual Pepa
Stay at the trailblazing new Edition Hotel, where you can toast the sunset from the leafy rooftop terrace and sip cocktails in the Punch Room speakeasy, before sneaking off to your luxurious suite. Asi es la Vida.
London City Breaks for Couples
By Leona Bowman of Wandermustfamily.com
If you are looking for the world’s most romantic city break then for me there is really only one contender – London!
London has something for every type of romantic on a city break – the foodie, the adventure and luxury date!
It is a city filled with some of the most varied and best cuisine with heaps of Michelin starred restaurants that to be are the perfect romantic date! Or for something traditionally British why not spoil yourself with a British afternoon tea at one of London’s many luxury hotels?!
It is also the perfect city for strolling and to me, there is nothing more romantic than strolling around a city after dinner seeing the twinkling lights with your date! Some of my favourite places to walk are along the river Thames and also through the entertainment filled Covent Garden piazza!
For those that love a more activity based romantic date then London has some of the world’s best theatre from the longest running show the mousetrap, to musicals to Shakespeare’s globe theatre! And for those that like adrenaline why not take a speedboat down the Thames or walk the top of the o2 for a really memorable date!
London is also filled with some of the most romantic hotels in the world such as the beautiful Aldwych One in Covent Garden to the stunning St Pancras Hotel! Whether you want historic charm or modern luxury, London has
Salzburg City Breaks For Couples
By Becki of Bordersofadventure.com
While Salzburg is known primarily as a musical metropolis, it is a romantic city even if you are not there to indulge in theatre, opera, or a grand cultural event.
The self-proclaimed ‘stage of the world’ is a canvas of pretty architecture, cobblestoned streets, pastel-hued buildings and cosy traditional hideouts. W
But know that the street singers and buskers will add to dreamy atmosphere of the city. Music is love.
Salzburg is home to the historic palace of Schloss Leopoldskron, manicured gardens like those of Mirabell and touches of old Austrian monarchy and baroque architecture, all connected by large open squares and long, pretty avenues. All of which makes the city centre perfect for tranquil strolls.
If that’s not romantic enough, day trips to the surrounding lakes set to a mountainous backdrop make Salzburg more than just a place with city charm.
Rome City Breaks for Couple
By Claudia Tavani of Myadventuresacrosstheworld.com
Few cities can compare to Rome in terms of what they offer to visitors.
The Italian capital has an incredible selection of beautifully kept churches and archaeological sites; fantastic museums with art exhibitions of any kind; gorgeous parks, square and churches.
If couples may not find the Colosseum particularly romantic during the day – it can be crowded – they may opt for a guided night tour, during which they will have the site to themselves.
A walk along the Tiber can be incredibly romantic too, especially with the view of Castel Sant’Angelo at sunset. And if you are in a truly romantic mood, a vespa ride can do wonders!
Make sure to include a visit to Fontana di Trevi and Piazza di Spagna in your Rome itinerary – the set of many movies. If you want to avoid the crowds, go in the very early morning or late at night.
One of the nicest hotels in Rome is The Orange Garden. It’s not far from the Vatican, and some rooms have an incredible view of the dome.
Read More | Things to do in Rome in the rain
Colmar City Breaks for Couples
By Cristina of the TheLazytrotter.com
If there is a romantic city you should be visiting in Europe, it is Colmar.
Why? Well, first of all because it is a hidden gem of France and you know, whatever is French is organically romantic.
Second, because it looks like a painting en plain air. You will feel like being the protagonist of one of the masterpieces of Monet or some other French painter.
Located in the Alsace region, this lovely little town is called the ‘Venice of France’ thanks to its several canals.
Get ready to dive into a place made of
Is there anything more romantic than being romantic in France?
Once in Colmar, enjoy a stroll around the famous Quartier de la Krutenau – also know as Little Venice – visit the Old Town as well as the Place de la Cathédrale and spend the rest of your time improving your French accent while you are making l’amour with your partner.
Bisous!
San Sebastian City breaks for couples
By Campbell and Alya of Stingynomads.com
San
The city is located by the Cantabrian sea, surrounded by the mountains it has all you need for a romantic holiday; beautiful beaches, many outdoor activities, delicious food, great wine, Old Town and a great holiday vibe – it’s a place to relax, enjoy and discover.
In San Sebastian you can combine surfing, kayaking or hiking with chilling on the beach, sightseeing, tasting delicacies of the Basque cuisine (one of the best in the world) and soaking in one of the local spas.
Some of the romantic activities in San Sebastian include; spending a day on a sailboat and visit several bays and beaches, watch sunset at La Concha beach, enjoy a stunning view of the city from Mount Igeldo, spend a day soaking and relaxing in famous La Perla Spa, go out for dinner to one of the restaurants and try the local speciality – delicious seafood and fish.
For adventurous couples there are plenty of activities to keep them busy; paragliding above the beautiful beaches, riding a hot air balloon, hiking – there are several hiking trails around San Sebastian with stunning views over the area, cycling around the city, kayaking in the sea and more.
In San Sebastian, any couple will find plenty of activities to make their romantic city break unforgettable.
Seville City Breaks for Couples
By Helen of helenonherholidays.com
Seville makes a perfect, romantic city break. The city streets are wonderful for walking hand in hand, stopping off occasionally to share some tapas on your way to the next sight.
Start at Seville’s newest attraction, the Metropol Parasol. This huge wooden structure has meandering paths across its roof, with amazing views of the city skyline.
From there, walk through the narrow streets of the old town to the Cathedral and its beautiful bell tower. A rooftop tour of the Cathedral is a wonderful way to get to know Seville better.
Beside the Cathedral, you’ll find the Real Alcázar de Seville. A complex of medieval palaces (some of which are still in use by Spain’s Royal family), surrounded by lush gardens, fountains and orange groves. It’s incredibly beautiful and evocative.
From the Real Alcázar, walk a little further south to another of Seville’s iconic sights, the Plaza de España. You’ll love the grand, semi-circular square, gorgeous tiles depicting all the other cities in Spain, and most of all the little canal.
Rent a rowing boat with your partner and take a trip underneath the pretty bridges – the most romantic activity of all in a very romantic city.
Paris City Breaks for Couples
By Kate of Ourescapeclause.com
When it comes to romance, there’s nowhere quite like Paris. Whether you and
From the budget to the luxurious, Paris always has something for everyone but for couples, there are definitely a few romantic things to do that should fly to the top of your list.
While you’re in Paris on a romantic getaway, consider taking a Seine River Cruise at night for beautiful views of the city’s lights, watching the sunset over the Eiffel Tower from the Trocadero Gardens, admiring the Parisian skyline from the top of Notre Dame, splurging on a meal at a Michelin Star restaurant, and -if you have a sweet tooth- you can even consider taking on a macaron baking class together!
Plovdiv City Breaks For Couples
By Emily of wander-lush.org
One of the longest continuously inhabited cities in Europe, Plovdiv in southern Bulgaria has bared witness to the rise and fall of many an empire. Its cobbled streets, vernacular architecture and idyllic green spaces make it an ideal city break location for couples.
Nicknamed ‘The City of Seven Hills’, Plovdiv is a hotbed of Thracian, Roman and Ottoman history. A highlight of the Old Town is a collection of restored homes built in the National Revival Architecture style. With their curved lines and floral motifs, they hark back to Bulgaria’s Renaissance Period, when a mood of nostalgic nationalism gripped the country. The cobbled Old Town is also home to a plethora of antique shops and cute cafes.
In the summer, visitors to Plovdiv have a chance to attend a performance at the preserved Roman Amphitheatre—a truly unforgettable night out. In winter, you can curl up at a wine bar or craft beer cafe in Kopana, Plovdiv’s trendy pedestrianised area.
The tree-lined alleyways of Tsar Simeon’s Garden in the city centre are the perfect place to while away a few hours with a romantic stroll. Outside the city, try a winery tour or a day trip to a countryside village.
Amsterdam City Breaks for Couples
By Bruna of Mapsnbags.com
Charming canals, gingerbread houses, and cosy cafes, Amsterdam is the perfect city break for couples in Europe. If cruising the canals isn’t in your bucket list, include it now! You won’t regret it.
Amsterdam is hands down romantic in all seasons, but the city has a unique appeal in the spring because the streets and bridges are decorated with perfumed flowers.
Moreover, the cafes and restaurants will keep you warm and, if you know where to find them, they will also have a fantastic view.
Want a local tip? Look for the Blue Amsterdam cafe or the Sky Lounge at the DoubleTree Hotel, both with a privileged view over the forever pulsing streets of Amsterdam.
Alternatively, if the weather allows, go local. Buy some wine and bites in the supermarket and enjoy a few hours in the largest park in the city, the Vondelpark. No matter what you choose, Amsterdam has a lot to entertain you and might even give you both some excellent ideas for the next city break, too.
Sibiu City Breaks for Couples
By Audrey of gumnutsabroad.com
If you’re looking for a romantic city break in Europe, forget about Rome and Paris and head to magical Sibiu in Romania instead.
Tucked away in Transylvania the medieval city is a mysterious wonderland. Dating back to the 12th century the winsome town is full of open squares, hidden alleyways and centuries old buildings that ooze charm.
Take your loved one by the hand and stroll along cobblestone streets lined with ornate pastel buildings in beautiful decay. And wonder at the mysterious eyes that gaze back at you from the roof tops.
A highlight of Sibiu is the pretty Bridge of Lies that overflows with cascading flowers. Test your love by declaring your love to one another – if the bridge doesn’t shake then it must be true love!
When the sun sets tuck yourself away in one of Sibiu’s hidden restaurants for an out-of-a-dream romantic meal.
Vienna City Breaks for Couples
By Demi of aroundtheworldwithher.com
With its narrow cobbled streets and magnificent architecture, Vienna is infamous for being one of the most romantic cities in the world. With plenty of places of interest to explore, it makes for the perfect couples getaway.
Take a stroll through the grounds of the famous Schonbrunn palace gardens, and be rewarded with a view of the whole city. There is also the chance to take a boat ride on the Danube, with a glass of Prosecco.
Famous for the classical and opera scene, an evening spent watching a ballet or show at one of the opera houses makes for a perfect date night.
There are plenty of upscale restaurants and bars, as well as cafes open late to grab a coffee as you wander the streets and admire the architecture.
If visiting museums is your thing, you can visit many as well as art galleries, both modern and classic. Vienna is full of activities perfect for couples.
Bruges City Breaks for Couples
By Gábor of surfingtheplanet.com
There’s hard to imagine a more romantic medieval town than Bruges. It’s not surprising that the whole Old Town of this city, situated in the Flanders Region of Belgium was declared UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Bruges is probably the closest you can see in the real world to a fairytale town, where you can really feel yourself in the Middle Ages.
Apart from the large quantity of perfectly conserved Gothic-style buildings you will find all around the city, the landscape of the Bruges with its picture-perfect canals makes it an especially romantic destination.
You can take in the grandeur of a medieval Flemish commercial centre when you look around in Market Square, and there are many interesting places to visit in Bruges, but the real romantic experience is simply walking along the canals and exploring the hidden corners in town.
The ambience is especially romantic at
Madrid City Breaks for Couples
By Ruben of Gamintraveler.com
We’ve been to a few cities in Europe but Madrid is our choice as the best romantic city for couples. There are many things to do in Madrid apart from having the best tasting tapas you can also experience a great nightlife while exploring Madrid.
The most popular bars are Museo del Jamon and Bar El Tigre. You will find generous tapas and beers at an affordable price. It also has nice weather and museums like Museo del Prado, which is Madrid’s national museum where you can see thousands of drawings, paintings, sculptures and other important works by artists like Raphael, Caravaggio, Titian, El Greco, Goya and Rembrandt.
But the best place to go to for us will be in Sabatini Gardens. It’s usually not crowded and you can walk around while listening to music. You can enjoy the serene atmosphere there. Another romantic thing that you can do is visit
Luxembourg City Breaks for Couples
By Margherita of thecrowdedplanet.com
It’s hard to find a European capital that is not overrun with tourists and I think this may be one of the reasons why I love Luxembourg City so much.
The capital of Luxembourg is usually considered a destination for bankers and bureaucrats, but it has plenty of panoramic views and some lovely corners that are perfect to explore with your loved one.
The Old City is full of lively squares and hidden corners to explore, but my favourite destination in the city is the Bock Casemates, a network of tunnels and fortifications built into the rock atop which the city was built.
From the entrance to the Bock Casemates you get a wonderful view over the lower part of the city, and if views are what you’re after, you can keep wandering down the Chemin de la Corniche, a pedestrian pathway following the Old Ramparts. At the end of the Chemin de la
For a romantic break, you can stop at a cafe in the Grund or make your way back up to the Old Town and head to Chocolate House, right in front of the Grand Ducal Palace, and enjoy amazing hot chocolate in many flavours!
So hopefully we have helped you decide which are the best cities for couples and given you some travel inspiration for your romantic getaway with your loved one!
Have you taken any of these trips with your significant other? I’d love to hear about it in the comments!
For more travel inspiration, check out my Europe Bucket List next or read this Prague guide by a local!
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