26 Best Weekend Getaways in Europe for Couples
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This amazing continent is home to popular romantic destinations as it boasts of some of the best weekend getaways in Europe for couples! One could stay in ultra-luxurious places or wallet-friendly romantic spots.
The region boasts some of the most beautiful spots on earth, no matter if you are a beach-, chill-, or adventure-loving couple. If you’re looking for the best weekend getaways in Europe for couples, here are the best options:
Best Weekend Getaways for Couples in Europe
Here are the best destinations perfect for weekend getaways for couples in Europe:
1. Alicante, Spain
Spain is one of the most romantic countries on Earth and has a culture that exudes romance. Among the most beautiful and romantic cities in the country is Alicante – the perfect destination for a lovely couple’s getaway. It’s located in Southern Spain on the Costa Blanca.
The charming seaside city offers couples stunning beaches, delicious tapas, and the most incredible attractions like the historic castle fortress, Santa Barbara Castle. In a city with breathtaking views at every turn, some of the best are of the beaches or the castle. From any of the city’s rooftop bars, hotels, and even Alicante Airbnbs with a balcony, you can enjoy a sweeping panoramic of the Mediterranean coastline with the mammoth castle overlooking it all.
One of the most romantic locations in Alicante is the colorful, palm-tree-lined walkway, Explanada Promenade. It hugs the coastline and can take couples from the gorgeous city center to the beaches. All couples should stroll from Alicante marina to Postiguet Beach and touch the sea. The marina is lined with sailboats and the path around it is dotted with sculptures that further add to its beauty.
For the most romantic sunset in southern Spain, head to Santa Barbara Castle in the evening. You can even start in the Old Quarter and admire the street art and historic architecture. The summit of the castle can be reached with a light hike or by funicular.
After reaching the historic fortress you can enjoy a tour of the grounds or show yourself around and wait for a perfect sunset over the city. The hues of red, orange, and purple rays over the Meditteranean make for a most romantic evening.
By Derek and Mike of Robe Trotting
2. Athens, Greece
A great weekend getaway for couples is one to Athens. Athens is the capital of Greece and it is a lovely city to visit. Furthermore, it is one of the most beautiful places in Greece.
There are lots of great experiences for couples in the city. For example, there are so many places where you can have a romantic dinner. The steps of Plaka are a great place to go for this. Or you can have dinner with a view on the Acropolis that is illuminated at night, which is very romantic. Also, you’ll see a lot of historic things when you walk through the city.
Everywhere you go there are ruins that remind you of Ancient Greece. It is very fun to learn about Greek history together with your partner. There are lots of things to do in the city. One of the best is to visit the Acropolis. This is an old citadel of Ancient Greece with remains of important buildings from that time. Another sight you have to see is the Temple of the Olympian Zeus. This used to be one of the largest temples in the world, but nowadays you can see only a few columns that are left.
Another great thing to do in Greece is to visit another island with your partner, such as Santorini or Mykonos. It is easy to go here by ferry and the experience is very romantic.”
By Dymphe of Dymabroad
3. Budapest, Hungary
Budapest is situated in the heart of Eastern Europe and is the capital city of Hungary. Split into two halves by the impressive river Danube Buda and Pest both with distinctive features and attractions to fill a romantic getaway for you and your partner.
Buda, on the west side, features areas of high ground which can offer some of the most impressive and romantic views of the city. We would recommend visiting “Fisherman’s Bastion” that is part of Buda castle. Built in 1844, it features beautiful neoclassical architecture, with viewing windows perfect to look over the city, especially during the evening when the iconic baroque parliament building is lit up.
On the east side of town or “Pest” side, you cannot miss out on visiting one of the many thermal baths that are prevalent in Budapest. The largest and most popular with tourists is the Széchenyi Thermal Baths. The baths here have an amazing outdoor area with heated pools to relax with your partner, or you can even book spa treatments if you really want to indulge in the experience.
Boat trips are also available along the river where you can either take a tour style trip, learning about the city and the sights along the river or if you want to cap off a romantic getaway in style, check out the evening cruises where you can enjoy a candlelit dinner for two as you take in the night time views.
By Matt & Lorna OF Two Souls One Path
4. Cinque Terre, Italy
The magical five lands aka Cinque Terre are located in northwest Italy in the Liguria region. It is also the last part of a famous Italian Riviera area. Cinque Terre consists of five villages: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore.
All picturesque villages are lined with the Mediterranean Sea on a rocky shore. The villages are isolated from the main roads but are reachable by car on mountain roads or with convenient trains. Cinque Terre villages and surrounding National Park are also listed on the UNESCO World Heritage site.
The Cinque Terre area is known for colorful fisher villages, for the views of the sea and surrounding landscape, hiking trails between villages, and beautiful beaches.
The main attraction is just strolling around either village. The most romantic village among the five is Vernazza. Where you have scenic views over the village from Doria Castle, enjoy the weather in a charming harbor, or taste local cuisine from fish restaurants.
Each village is connected by walking hiking trails, known as Blue Path. For the spectacular views, it’s one of the main things to do in the area. In a total of four hiking trails, the most known pathway is between villages Manarola and Riomaggiore. This trail is called via dell’Amore aka The Way of Love. Riomaggiore is also the best place for sunsets.
Cinque Terre in Italy is the perfect destination for a romantic weekend getaway in Europe!
By Erki of genemtravels.com
5. Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen may not be the first city you think of when it comes to a couple’s getaway, but it’s actually one of Europe’s most romantic destinations. Copenhagen has an incredible and understated beauty.
There’s a magnificent blend of old and new architecture that makes the city a lovely backdrop for a romantic getaway. From the pastel buildings to the cobblestone streets, Copenhagen is simply enchanting. From any airport in Europe couples can fly to the city and book a Copenhagen Airbnb for an incredible getaway.
One of the most beautiful features is the waterfront areas which are seemingly all over the city. This is because of the numerous canals and large scenic harbor which are all lined with walkways that are perfect for a lover’s stroll. You can also explore the city from the water itself, one of the best couple’s activities in Copenhagen is renting an electric boat to cruise the waterways. Most of the boat rentals have picnic tables for you to enjoy a bottle of wine and floating picnic while boating through the city.
Speaking of picnics, Copenhagen is full of parks and picnic spots like the King’s Garden surrounding Rosenborg Castle. Couples can also linger around and tour Rosenborg Castle, a beautifully restored Renaissance castle displaying artifacts of Danish history. Most significant are the royal coronation thrones and the Danish Crowned Jewels. One of the most fun places for couples visiting the city is Tivoli Gardens. It’s an old-world amusement park in the center of Copenhagen. Its beauty and charm even inspired Walt Disney to create his own park in the United States.
By Derek and Mike of Everything Copenhagen
6. Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy
If you find yourself in Northern Italy or Austria and are looking for a nice place for a romantic getaway, the ski resort of Cortina d’Ampezzo is the place for you.
Located some 250 km north of Venice, the small town of Cortina is surrounded by the Dolomites, undeniably one of the most impressive sections of the Alps – protected by UNESCO.
Whether you like outdoor activities and sports, or you prefer to relax and get pampered, there are a lot of romantic things to do in Cortina in a weekend.
If you want to challenge yourself with a via ferrata trek, head to the Fanes Waterfalls, located in the Natural Park of the Ampezzo Dolomites. Some parts of the hike are quite demanding, but the stunning waterfalls are worth the effort.
If you prefer to relax and admire the scenery, take a walk on the Old Railway Track to enjoy wonderful views of the whole valley, with zero effort.
Many hotels in Cortina have a spa, so it’s the perfect occasion to get pampered! Check out Hotel Trieste, Hotel Rosapetra, Hotel Cristallo, or head over to the Croda da Lago refuge to try their barrel sauna.
Needless to say that the extensive ski slopes network ranges from easy to hard, making it the perfect destination to practice skiing – or learning with a teacher.
Foodies will have a great time in Cortina. Gather for an aperitivo with wine or spritz from 6 p.m. in the city centre to experience the chic-yet-local vibe, then enjoy an Italian or traditional meal at a nearby pizzeria like Ariston or Cinque Torri. For a special experience, try Ristorante Tivoli, a one Michelin star restaurant.
By Giulia of The Travelling Sunglasses
7. Dinant, Belgium
Dinant is, without a doubt, one of Belgium’s most hidden gems and the perfect place for a romantic couple getaway. Dinant is located in the French-speaking municipality of Namur and is known for its colorful scenery. Enthusiasts for culture, adventure, and or nature come here to enjoy an unforgettable city trip.
Some of the top things to do in Dinant include visiting The citadel-literally and figuratively speaking the highlight of Dinant. A cable car takes you up from the Meuse dock but it is actually more fun to take the old stairs. You are in for a treat once conquered the 408 pieces in total. Because, as soon as you are at a height of a hundred meters above the city, the citadel provides you with a breathtaking view out over the surroundings and the river. Fun fact, the fortress has been besieged seventeen times over the last centuries!
The castle of Vêves is located on an enormous rock and is one of the most beautiful castles in Belgium. Therefore, a visit to this beautiful castle cannot be left out on your to-do list. Enjoy nature at his fullest and enjoy a beautiful walk near the castle.
Spend the night in Dinant at the romantic hotel La Merveilleuse, a unique cloister, stylishly refurbished near the city center.
Antoine Joseph Sax, better known as Adolphe Sax or the inventor of the saxophone was born in 1814 in the centre of the small town. On the bridge over the Meuse, artistic saxophones remind the visitors of Dinant’s relationship with this musical instrument. La Maison de Monsieur Sax, the home of Mr Sax, is now located where his former birthplace was. Here the visitor is taken on a journey through the life and work of the famous inventor
Stéphanie by Bey Of Travel
8. Dubrovnik, Croatia
One of the most amazing weekend getaways for couples is certainly Dubrovnik. It is located in Croatia, in the very south of the country and is one of the most romantic attractions to visit. There are so many interesting places to see and things to do in Dubrovnik.
The city is especially famous for its historic old town, which has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1979 and attracts visitors with its many interesting sights and museums. Another important attraction is the city wall of Dubrovnik, which surrounds the entire city center with a length of about 2 kilometers. During a walk over the wall you can also enjoy a breathtaking view over the red roofs and the deep blue sea.
Another highlight are the beautiful beaches! During a spring vacation you can enjoy a whole series of picture book dream beaches with turquoise blue sea, fine pebbles and fantastic flair. The many cool beach clubs also provide for an exuberant time at the sea.
But also the area around Dubrovnik is worth visiting. One of the most popular spots for an excursion is the offshore island Lokrum, which is under nature protection and can be easily reached by ferry from the old town. Boat trips to the Elaphites, to Mjet or Korcula are also popular. If you like, you can also take a day trip to Montenegro, which is only 50 kilometers away from Dubrovnik.
By Martina and Jürgen of PlacesofJuma
9. Florence, Italy
Located in the heart of central Italy is Florence, the Tuscan capital. This renaissance city is chock full of historic art and grand architecture. But, what makes Florence one of the best weekend getaways for couples in Europe are the quaint and walkable streets, cozy trattorias and beautiful gardens.
If you are planning a weekend trip to Florence, start by staying at the AdAstra boutique hotel. This romantic, beautifully designed, and eclectic mansion is located a 5 minute walk to the Palazzo Pitti and Boboli Gardens. A perfect spot away from crowds, but close enough to walk to all the attractions.
Once you’ve settled in, head out to roam the city by foot. Visit the famous Cathedral (Duomo) and marvel at the architecture. Stop off at the Galleria dell’Accademia di Firenze to see the Statue of David. Meander across the ancient Ponte Vecchio bridge hand-in-hand and grab yourself a gelato at one of the best in town, Gelateria Della Passera. Try the pistachio!
For a romantic dinner out, explore the wine list at Le Volpi e L’Uva, one of the best wine bars in the country. Order a local meat and cheese plate off of their small, curated menu and enjoy each other’s company.
While out and about, visit the Mercato Centrale (central market) and head upstairs for a taste of the best truffle pasta or wander the magnificent, and romantic Boboli Gardens, located behind the Palazzo Pitti. Don’t forget to peruse the halls of the famous Uffizi Gallery where you will lay eyes on many Renaissance masterpieces.
10. Granada, Spain
The quaint city of Granada in southern Spain is an incredibly romantic getaway. The old, charming streets in the old town, rustic restaurants, and bars, but also the mesmerizing views of the Alhambra. Which also happens to be one of the top things to do in Granada.
The old fortress and palace are packed with history from the different rulers of history, from Moors to Christians. And the gardens are absolutely amazing all year round. The sunsets from Granada are priceless too and you can head up to one of the lookouts with a bottle of cava for even better views.
For the active couples check out the hiking Sierra Nevada Spain has to offer. With Granada being the gateway to the national park, you can choose between some of the highest peaks in Spain, but also easier walks without much elevation.
A really fun alternative that will make an amazing couple’s memory is to walk the Cahorros trail from Monachil, just 15 minutes outside the city. It crosses hanging bridges and water holes, passes waterfalls, and enters a gorge where the trail narrows in along the gorge wall and you need to crawl under the gorge walls or hold on to the provided metal handles in places to get past.
It is only a couple of meters above the ground, so it is not dangerous, but it definitely adds to the more fun activities in Granada.
By Linn of Andalucia Hiking
11. Isle of Skye, Scotland
If you’re looking for a magical getaway with your other half, there is perhaps no destination more whimsical than the Isle of Skye. This Scottish island sits on the west side of the country, connected to the mainland by bridge. You can also cross over to the island via ferry.
For outdoorsy couples, Skye is a little piece of paradise. There are incredible hiking opportunities with breathtaking views all over the island. The Quiraing loop and the Old Man of Storr are two trails you should definitely pencil into your itinerary.
For a dose of magic, don’t skip the Fairy Glen, an enchanting landscape which looks like it has fallen straight out of a Tolkien fantasy novel. For Instagram loving travellers, a trip to the Fairy Pools, a series of cascading waterfalls at the base of the Cuillin Hills, is a must.
As well as being home to epic hiking, Skye is also an ideal place for wildlife spotting. Eagles regularly swoop through the skies and it is even possible to see wild otters in different spots on the island.
Portree is the best and most convenient base on the Isle of Skye. There are several accommodation options to choose from (the Cuillin Hills Hotel offers a great romantic getaway) and plenty of eateries nearby.
By Sheree of Winging the World
12. Lake Bled, Slovenia
Slovenia is a small country in Eastern Europe and the perfect destination for couples who are looking for a romantic, relaxing, and active trip in the great outdoors. The picturesque Lake Bled, a refreshing Alpine lake, is located in the north of the country – between glittering mountain peaks.
There are many different things to do at Lake Bled for a weekend getaway for couples. Some of the most romantic activities include rowing in a wooden boat to the small island in the middle of the lake, strolling around Bled’s town center, or visiting the Bled Castle (located at a height of 139 meters).
For active couples, it is recommended to hike to one of the several viewpoints and enjoy the beautiful view over the lake. On top of that, there are many opportunities to rent bikes with which you can take a nice tour around the lake or discover the area.
If you are visiting in summer, chances are high you can even go swimming in the refreshing water or rent stand-up paddleboards. Besides the activities mentioned, trying a piece of cream cake, a typical Slovene dessert, in one of the many cafés around the lake, is a must-do as well.
If you want to see and learn more of the country and culture, a day trip to Slovenia’s capital Ljubljana, which is only a one-hour car drive away, is also a great idea!
By Carolin of Happy When Abroad
13. Nottingham, UK
Nottingham is the largest city in the East Midlands of England and is a city full of culture, history and activities. For couples a weekend break is perfect and there are many romantic things to do in Nottingham.
First, take a trip to Wollaton Hall, a grade I listed Elizabethan Mansion just outside the city, and wander the extensive grounds and admire the free-roaming red and fallow deer. Next, delve into the history of the city with a visit to Nottingham Castle where you can visit the hand-carved caves that lie under the castle, and were reportedly carved out by Sir Lancelot to hide Guinevere from King Arthur following their adulterous affair.
The caves extend far beyond the castle and can be seen under most of the city, including beneath some of the oldest pubs in England like Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem and The Bell Inn where you can snuggle up beside a cosy fire. For a special treat visit Doughnotts on King Street for tasty Instagram-worthy handmade doughnuts or indulge in a romantic afternoon tea for two at The Pudding Pantry.
Nottingham is easy to reach via the M1 and the nearest airport is East Midlands which has frequent flights from across Europe.
By Steph & Lewis from Book It Let’s Go!
14. North Coast of Northern Ireland, UK
The north coast of Northern Ireland is an ideal spot for a romantic weekend getaway for couples in Europe. This part of Ireland is home to some amazing restaurants, beautiful scenery, and some of the friendliest local people you could ever hope to meet. I’d recommend staying in Portrush as it is a good central hub to access all of the awesome things to do nearby.
This part of the Irish coastline is absolutely breath-taking and there is no shortage of romantic viewpoints and walks. The best place to visit on the north coast is Mussenden Temple which is precariously perched on a cliff edge, 120 feet above the Atlantic Ocean. This is one of the most popular engagement spots in the country so you’ll have the perfect place if you wanted to pop the question.
Ballintoy Harbour is another great place to visit on the north coast. It has become famous from being featured in the HBO series, Game of Thrones. The quaint harbour is surrounded by small islands and is the perfect place to enjoy a walk to take in the stunning views.
While these are a couple of my favorites there is so much more to explore. You can also check out Dunluce Castle, the Giants Causeway, Bushmills and so much more. This stretch of coastline in Northern Ireland is such a beautiful place to explore with your other half.
By Luke of Wild About BC
15. Paris, France
Often called the city of Love, Paris is one of the best weekend getaways for couples in Europe. The French Capital is synonymous with a romantic experience when one thinks about walking through it’s cobblestoned roads, seeing its grand boulevards, and discovering its many historic sites.
It’s a great place for couples who want to have the most magical time. Some of the things lovers can do in this town include having an afternoon coffee at one of the iconic French terraces, eating Boeuf Bourguignon in a fine dining restaurant, picnicking at the Jardin de Luxembourg, or strolling through the ever so romantic Montmartre. Of course, let’s not forget to mention, the most romantic of them all – taking a river cruise at the Seine while the lights of the Eiffel Tower sparkle and shine in all their beauty at night.
To make the most out of the weekend, there are many great places to stay in Paris close to everything so that couples can be within reach to all these major landmarks and activities. The least ideal thing would be to stay too far away from the center and spend too much time commuting into the city. The city center is completely walkable or a short subway ride away from each other so it is advised that couples stay within the main areas of Paris given it is just a weekend getaway.
By Antoine and Marielle of Offbeat Escapades
16. Porto, Portugal
A weekend in Porto is all that you need to fall head over heels for Portugal’s second city. Located on the Douro river estuary in northern Portugal, Porto is one of Europe’s oldest cities, and couples who are looking for a romantic weekend away are in for a treat. There are so many things to do in Porto!
Porto is incredibly beautiful and romantic, without the clichés that usually accompany romantic cities. With amazing food, port, wine and lots of culture, it’s easy to love Porto. The small city is perfect to explore on foot. Walking through the city will take you through narrow medieval alleys, to ornate churches covered in azulejos (Portuguese tiles), sunny plazas and along the Duoro river and the bridges spanning it.
If you’re a Harry Potter fan, then your first stop should be the Livraria Lello bookstore, which is said to be the inspiration for Hogwarts. Lovers of trains and the romance of train travel should also check out the Sao Bento station. The beautiful azulejo tiles inside the station make it one of the most beautiful train stations in the world.
The Gaia neighbourhood on the banks of the Douro river is perhaps the most romantic area in the city. Home to many port wine cellars for which the city is famous for, Gaia is THE place to be on the weekend. Go for a cellar tour and tasting, followed by a river cruise on the Douro.
During summer weekends, the atmosphere in Gaia is incredible with live music, food stalls, and even more wine tasting opportunities. At sunset, the Douro River (River of Gold) lives up to its name.
By De Wet & Jin of Museum of Wander
17. Positano, Italy
There is nowhere on earth more romantic and magical than Positano, Italy. From start to finish this is a travel destination made for couples looking to fall more in love and strengthen their bonds together.
The huge mountains, pastel-coloured houses built into the cliffside, blue water, and charming environment are enough to make anyone feel the love! Whether you are looking for a honeymoon destination, celebratory getaway, or just want to enjoy each other’s company in a stunning atmosphere, Positano is for you!
Luckily there are plenty of amazing things to do in Positano for couples. The village is a love bird’s paradise with cliffside restaurants, romantic streets, and captivating beaches. There are plenty of adventures to be had in Positano that will result in lasting memories.
The best thing to do in Positano for couples is to book a reservation at one of the many mountainside restaurants that offer stunning views of the city and sea. A romantic dinner date that also captures the sunset is by far one of the best things to do where you can enjoy the beauty, amazing Italian food, and each other. It is also wonderful to spend a day on the beach relaxing on a sunbed with a cocktail and amazing service.
By Samantha of Sam Sees World
18. Prague, Czech Republic
Prague is simply the most romantic European capital (ok, perhaps with Paris). Located in the heart of Europe, its charming medieval feel makes it look straight out of a fairy tale.
Prague’s Old Town with its narrow winding streets is just the perfect backdrop for a romantic sightseeing stroll. Cross the medieval Charles Bridge and you’ll find yourself in the Lesser Quarter area. From there, it’s just a stone’s throw away to the magical Prague Castle.
Couples also love walking by the River Vltava. You can chill on the river bank in an area called Náplavka, with a glass of wine or a cocktail in hand, watching swans while the sun goes down. If you visit Prague in summer, you can even go on a paddleboat. It’s great fun – just the two of you enjoying the afternoon on the river, casually paddling around Prague’s river islands.
I find the Petřín Hill a uniquely romantic place too. An Eiffel Tower lookalike sits on its top and provides beautiful views of the city. Right next to it there’s a fun mirror maze, which is beloved by couples and families alike. Rose gardens enclose the whole area and provide a lovely environment to relax and take it all in. You can get to the top of the Petřín Hill either by walking or taking a funicular.
By Veronika of Travel Geekery
19. Rome, Italy
Rome is one of the most popular romantic destinations in the world, and for many good reasons. The Italian capital, AKA the Eternal City, will marvel you at every corner with the incredible array of archeological sites; beautiful churches; squares that are a real work of art; and with its incredible food and nightlife scene.
This is the city of the Seven Hills, so it goes without saying that you will find several nice viewpoints to take in the amazing views – something couples love doing. The best sunset views are those from the Giardino Degli Aranci, a nice park on the Aventine Hill from where you can admire the city.
But this isn’t the only landmark in Rome you should visit!
The Colosseum is obviously a must. Consider going on a night tour for a truly unique experience, and remember that your ticket will also be valid to explore the Roman Forum and the Palatine Hill.
Another thing couples love doing in Rome is passing by the Mouth of Truth, located by the entrance of Santa Maria in Cosmedin Church. It’s the perfect occasion to find out if your loved one has been faithful! In fact, legend narrates that the mouth will bite off the hand of liars.
By Claudia Tavani of Strictly Rome
20. San Sabastian, Spain
San Sebastian is one of the most idyllic getaway ideas in Spain. The city forms part of the Spanish Basque Country and is known in Europe for its unmatched coastal location and beautiful hilly surroundings. Even the members of the Spanish monarchy used to spend their summers at Palacio de Miramar in San Sebastian.
It’s hard to imagine anything more romantic than a long stroll at San Sebastian´s Bay of Concha, set amongst scenic mountains and swelling waves. You can’t miss the panoramic views of the city from Monte Igeldo, Monte Urgull, and Monte Ulia.
Not to mention the Basque Country is an ultimate culinary destination, known for its numerous Michelin-starred restaurants and delicious pintxos. You can spend a whole evening pintxo-hopping from bar to bar. The atmospheric Old Town with its quaint cobblestone streets, excellent bars, and fine boutiques will not disappoint you either.
Although the biggest advantage couples will have in San Sebastian is the wide range of activities to share with your loved one: anything from gastronomic tours and cooking classes to bike tours, surfing, hiking, and picnics.
San Sebastian is one of those unique destinations that make you gravitate back all the time. It’s the perfect place to rekindle your relationship and bring back the romance into your life.
By Anna of At Lifestyle Crossroads
21. Santorini, Greece
Santorini, one of the most beautiful Greek islands is the perfect destination for couples because it is so romantic! The volcanic island has dramatic cliffs that plunge into the caldera (the flooded volcanic crater), white-washed buildings, and blue-domed churches. The ideal place to stay, is Thira, the capital town, which is a maze of narrow winding streets. There are small hotels there that have rooms cut in the cliffs with private balconies overlooking the caldera – how magical!
You can walk down to the harbor (or catch the cable car!), to join a boat cruise exploring the caldera or you can relax on a beautiful catamaran with lunch served on board. If you are feeling energetic, the crater walk to Oia is spectacular, or you can hop on the bus to watch the spectacular sunset there. There are buses to other parts of the island if you fancy relaxing on a black sand beach.
Dine-in style in Thira and enjoy the island’s wines and beers, before heading for the nightlife. During the summer, there are flights from many European regional airports, making Santorini the perfect destination for a long weekend.
By Chrysoula of Greece Travel Ideas
22. Southern Tuscany, Italy
In the south of Tuscany, near the border with Lazio, there are some of Italy’s hidden gems that are perfect for spending a couple of days with your significant other.
The first stop is the tiny village of Bagni San Filippo, which has been known since ancient times for its healing thermal hot springs. The waters have carved the limestone that covers the hill creating a fairytale landscape of natural thermal pools and waterfalls where you can bathe and relax from autumn to spring, surrounded by a dense forest.
Not far away, there is a thermal resort with a spa, a hotel, and a restaurant where you can spend the night.
After enjoying one of the most picturesque hot springs near Rome, head to the villages included in the archaeological park “Città del Tufo”. Sorano and Pitigliano are built on immense blocks of tufa rock that rise in the middle of gorges full of lush vegetation. The historic centers date back to medieval times and are composed of narrow maze-like alleys, small piazzas, and terraces from which to admire the breathtaking landscape of the canyon. Pitigliano is full of artisans’ and artists’ stores.
At sunset, choose a café and taste the local wine and cuisine. The countryside surrounding these places is full of vineyards and olive groves and has nothing to envy to the nearby Chianti region. For a unique experience, stop to dine and sleep at the organic farm Bio-agriturismo Aia del Tufo, which produces all the products it serves. The most satisfying way to travel in Tuscany is by private car, so you can stop and admire the hilly landscape and take a picture whenever you want.
By Annalisa of Travel Connect Experience
23.St. Petersburg, Russia
St.Petersburg is the perfect weekend getaway for couples in Europe. This city of palaces, elegant architecture, and picturesque canals has lots of romantic things to do any time of the year. It is not for nothing that St Petersburg is also known as the Venice of the north and one of the most beautiful cities in Russia.
What about a romantic boat tour through the canals and the famous Neva river. Or a nice stroll through the attractive palace gardens and green city parks. Other great things to do for couples is going to the famous Mariinsky theatre to see the Russian ballet, going for a candle light dinner with traditional Russian food or visiting one of the city’s many museums, churches and palaces.
The hermitage is one of the top attractions in St Petersburg. It has one of the largest art collections in the world and is in the former winter palace of the Romanov tsars that once ruled all over Russia. Just outside of St Petersburg are more palaces where one can enjoy the lavishly decorated rooms and feel like a royal prince and princess.
On a weekend one can get a good sense of the city and its rich cultural heritage. Still, you will only get to see the tip of the iceberg. There is so much to see in St Petersburg that after a weekend trip, you will want to come back for more.
By Ellis from Backpack Adventures
24. The Cotswolds, UK
If you’re looking for a romantic getaway, there is no better place than the Cotswolds in England. Picture honey-coloured historic cottage, quirky antique shops and traditional British pubs.
The Cotswolds villages are the perfect place to experience British tradition and immerse yourself in history and culture. Many buildings are perfectly preserved and look exactly the same as hundreds of years ago when the region was a thriving centre for wool and textile production.
Some of the prettiest villages in the Cotswolds include Castle Combe with the Instagram famous bridge, Bibury famous for houses in Bibury Raw and Burton-on-the-water.
Hang out in traditional tea rooms that are plenty in all the villages. Try the British tradition cream tea which includes home-baked scones with clotted cream and strawberry jam with a milky black tea. Try locally made fudge and ice cream or head to a historic pub, sit by the fireplace or in the garden depending on the season and sample some locally produced ales.
If you’re more of an outdoorsy type, The Cotswolds have some excellent walking trails including the famous 164 km long The Cotswolds Way. The region is also renowned for great cycling routes.
Stay in the epic Manor House Hotel in Castle Combe for the ultimate romance and try their Michelin-starred restaurant.
By Mal from Raw Mal Roams
25. Tbilisi, Georgia
Tbilisi is the capital of Georgia, one of 3 countries that makes up the Caucasus region straddling Europe and Asia. This cultural mix is felt everywhere in Tbilisi, from the food to the architecture, making it an interesting weekend getaway.
Located high above the city the viewpoint close to Narikala Fortress is a good place to start your trip. From the top the futuristic buildings as well as the large old town stretches out in front of you.
The viewpoint can be reached either by taking the gondola located next to the Bridge of Peace or, if you prefer a more active break, there are a series of steps leading up the hill from the old town.
Back in the old town strolling the narrow lanes is a pleasant and romantic way to spend an afternoon. A stroll here is made even nicer by nearly every street corner having a cosy café or restaurant to stop at for a glass of Georgian wine.
A unique feature of Tbilisi is the number of available day trips. Any itinerary for Georgia should include a day trip to at least one of the following: the mountain region of Kazbegi; wine tasting or visiting a vineyard in Sighnaghi; exploring the Stalin museum in Gori; David Gareja monastery on the border with Azerbaijan.
Spring and autumn have the most pleasant temperatures but Tbilisi can be visited at any time of year if you do not mind wrapping up warm.
By Kristin of Adventure with Ensuite
26. Venice, Italy
Venice, one of Italy’s most picturesque cities, is also one of the most romantic cities in the world! Built in a lagoon in the Adriatic Sea, Venice has no roads, just canals. Mysterious passageways, serene beauty in romantic canals, and the charm of walking through a historically artistic and preserved city make Venice a fabulous romantic getaway.
There is nothing more romantic than being serenaded in Italian during a gondola ride in Venice. Snuggle in close and enjoy the picturesque small canals and historic architecture, antique charm, and gorgeous bridges around you. Take a gondola ride at sunset for added romance. Have the gondolier take you under the Bridge of Sighs. According to Venetian lore, if a couple kisses under the bridge, they will stay together forever and live in eternal bliss.
You’ll even love getting lost in the maze of Venice streets, as every corner is enchanting. Grab some gelato, wander arm in arm without an agenda, and get magically lost.
The top of the bell tower, or the top of the clock tower, for fabulous views of Venice and the lagoon.
Everywhere you turn in Venice, you will feel the dream-like atmosphere of the city, and all of the love in the air. You’ll finish your weekend starry-eyed and with full hearts.
By Debbie of World Adventurists
