It’s no secret that Europe holds the key to many memorable romantic moments, experiences, and charming places to visit. If you are looking for the most romantic things to do in Europe, you will find dozens of romantic destinations that are perfect for young couples, honeymooners of any age, babymoon parents, as well as anniversary and milestone celebrators.
Chris and I have been chasing European moments for years—picnicking on a whim under sycamore-lined roads in the South of France, hiking above the colorful villages of Cinque Terre, and paragliding off a Swiss mountain because apparently that’s what we do on anniversaries. Whether you’re planning empty nester romantic getaways or searching for the most romantic places in Europe to propose, Europe has a way of delivering exactly what you need.
40 Most Romantic Things to Do in Europe
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Europe doesn’t need much of an introduction when it comes to charm and romance—it practically invented both. These 40 experiences are the ones worth building an entire trip around. Already inspired? My guide to planning a trip to Europe will help you turn this list into an actual itinerary.
1. Add YOUR Love Lock
While I can’t guarantee that your “love lock” will remain once you have attached it in a meaningful place, you might have fun looking for the best spot to add your love lock. Want to commemorate a meaningful moment such as finding one of the most romantic places in Europe to propose? A love lock engraved with the date of your proposal will live on in your memories forever.
2. Arrange a Gondola Ride in Venice
Can you go to Venice and not enjoy an iconic gondola ride along the canals? Well, maybe if you are traveling with your children. Then you’ll say, “Next time I visit,” and add the experience to your couples bucket list. Venice is one of the most romantic cities in Europe where you can:
- Enjoy a gondola ride along the canals
- Spend the day exploring the islands of Burano and Murano
- Share a gelato in Piazza San Marco
- Take dozens of photos
- Eat a margarita pizza
3. Attend a Christmas Market
Experiencing Christmas Markets in Europe is definitely on my Christmas list. Chris and I visited the South of France at the end of November and missed the beginning of the market in Aix-en-Provence by one day! We did get to see the Chatsworth House Christmas Market in the UK though a couple of years later. On one of our next empty nester romantic getaways, I am going to plan another trip to…anywhere in Europe that has a Christmas Market.
We do attend the Christkindl Markt in Denver at Christmastime each year and love the festive ambiance.
4. Be Mesmerized by the Northern Lights
I am not a cold weather loving person even though I live in Colorado and grew up in Canada, but I would brave the chill in Finland, Iceland, or Norway to witness a spectacular Northern Lights show. Magnificent skies, a clear midnight horizon, and Chris by my side, it doesn’t get more romantic than that.
5. Be Spontaneous
There is something wonderful to be said about the spontaneity of being an empty nester or young couple without children and having the freedom to take off for the weekend on a romantic getaway. If you still have kids at home, you might have to do a little more planning and find child care, but a couples weekend getaway is just what you need to keep the romance alive.
If you have ever explored the 5 Love Languages, you know that people give and receive love in a variety of ways. What’s interesting is that romantic getaways for couples in Europe can actually fill all five:
- Quality Time Together — Unplug and explore somewhere new together.
- Acts of Service — Plan a surprise getaway, complete with a couples massage.
- Giving & Receiving Gifts — A trip itself is one of the most meaningful gifts you can give.
- Words of Affirmation — Your partner’s heartfelt “thank you for planning this getaway” is words of affirmation at its finest.
- Physical Touch — Hold hands as you stroll along the beach at sunset.
One thing that I have learned after almost 30 years of marriage is that making your relationship a priority is an everyday endeavor—and sometimes that means booking the trip.
6. Book a Mediterranean Cruise
I haven’t done all of the things on this list of romantic things to do in Europe, however, taking a Mediterranean cruise is on my bucket list! What could be better than cruising, exploring new ports of call every day in the romantic cities in Europe, and enjoying time together with your favorite person?
7. Dine at a Michelin-Rated Restaurant
Whether you are in Florence, Paris, Rome, or anywhere else in Europe, Michelin-starred restaurants deliver an experience that goes far beyond the meal. The ambiance, the service, the artistry on the plate—it’s the kind of dinner that turns into a story you’ll still be telling years later. Splurge a little. You won’t regret it.
8. Discover the Most Romantic Places in Europe to Propose
After almost 30 years of marriage, my proposal days are long past. But when you and I think of one of the most romantic places in Europe to propose, the Eiffel Tower in Paris might just top your list. Here are a few more suggestions:
- Annecy, France
- Bruges or Ghent, Belgium
- Mdina, Malta
- Colmar, France
- Hallstatt, Austria
- Lucerne, Switzerland
- Monterosso al Mare, Italy
These are a few of the charming old European towns where you can find a delightful romantic ambiance. Of course, there is also Zurich, Venice, Florence, the Algarve region of Portugal, or Amsterdam. Honestly, Europe makes it difficult to choose a bad spot.
9. Drive the Romantic Road in Germany
Road trips don’t get more aptly named than this one. The Romantic Road in Germany stretches approximately 220 miles (350 km) from Würzburg in the north to Füssen in the south, winding through charming European villages and past medieval castles and some of Germany’s most beautiful natural scenery along the way. If a scenic drive with a built-in excuse to stop everywhere sounds like your kind of trip, this one delivers.
10. Eat at a Small Restaurant Off the Beaten Path
Chris and I have a rule when looking for authentic places to eat, especially if you are in the popular romantic cities in Europe: walk at least five blocks away from the busiest tourist areas and you will begin to find the quaint cafes and restaurants where the locals like to eat. You may not find English menus, but you will love the ambiance, the food, and the authenticity.
11. Enjoy a Food Tour or Cooking Class Together
Food tours and cooking classes are one of the most underrated romantic things to do in Europe—and one of the most memorable. Learn to make pasta, pastries, or pizza from a local chef, or take it up a notch with gnocchi from an Italian nonna. Viator is my go-to for finding the best food experiences wherever I travel.
12. Experience a Hot Air Balloon Ride in Cappadocia, Turkey
A hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia in Turkey is at the top of my bucket list. Drifting above one of Europe’s most otherworldly landscapes, you’ll spy cave dwellings, ancient rock formations, fairy chimneys, and dozens of other balloons dotting the sky around you. It’s the kind of experience that’s almost impossible to describe and even harder to forget.
Photography Tips for Your Hot Air Balloon Ride
You don’t want to miss some of the most amazing photo opportunities of your life. Learn your camera, bring the right gear, and keep these tips in mind before you go.
- Shoot during golden hour. Most Cappadocia flights launch at sunrise—the warm light is ideal for both landscape and balloon shots.
- Use a fast shutter speed. The basket moves more than you expect. A shutter speed of 1/500 or faster will keep your shots sharp.
- Go wide for landscapes, zoom in for details. Switch between focal lengths to capture both the sweeping valley below and the intricate patterns on surrounding balloons.
- Bring a fully charged battery and empty card. You will shoot more frames than you think. This is not the moment to run out of either.
- Secure your gear. Use a camera strap at all times. A lens cap or filter dropped from that altitude is gone forever.
- Don’t underestimate your Smartphone. Modern smartphone cameras handle low light and movement surprisingly well. If you’re not comfortable managing manual settings on a DSLR while floating over a canyon, your smartphone will deliver stunning results without the stress.
13. Explore a Fairy Tale Castle
Europe’s castles aren’t just historic landmarks—some of them look as though they were lifted straight from the pages of a storybook. The Alcázar of Segovia in Spain allegedly inspired Disney’s Cinderella Castle, and one look at those turrets tells you exactly why. From medieval fortresses perched on clifftops to ornate palaces surrounded by manicured gardens, exploring a fairy tale castle together is one of those experiences that never gets old regardless of your age.
14. Find a Windmill
Chris and I happened to be driving along a country road in the south of France when we spotted this windmill on the side of the road. Naturally, we pulled over immediately. The windmill is one of the most iconic symbols of Europe. Kinderdijk, the most famous windmill village in the Netherlands, has 19 magnificent windmills, with many still in use today. If you are looking for romantic things to do in Europe with a theme, plan a trip to see as many windmills as you can.
15. Hike Together
Chris and I are year-round hikers and can be found on the trails near our Colorado home in almost any weather. Hiking down from Mt. Bre in Switzerland was one of our favorite ways to spend an afternoon abroad—the views over Lake Lugano were worth every step, and there’s something about a good hike in Lugano that makes conversation come easily.
16. Marvel at a Sunset or Sunrise
I love a good sunrise or sunset. More often on vacation I am enjoying the sunset as I try not to get up quite so early for the sunrise. Whether you are on the top of Mt. Pilatus in Switzerland, walking along the beach, enjoying a harbor cruise, or standing on the top of the Arc de Triomphe in Paris to watch the sun set, Europe has a way of making every sunset feel like it was staged just for you.
17. Meander Through an Old Town
One of my favorite things about the romantic cities in Europe are their old towns. I love the cobblestone streets, the quaint shops, the views, the architecture. It is fun to sit on the patio of a cafe and watch people meander through the streets.
18. Explore Wineries
Wineries dot the landscape of Europe and offer tasting experiences, cellar tours, and views that pair perfectly with a leisurely afternoon. Some of the best regions to explore include:
- Tuscany, Italy
- Alsace, France
- Burgundy or Bordeaux, France
- Catalonia, Spain
19. Glide Along on a River Cruise
A river cruise is one of the most effortless romantic things to do in Europe. Whether you book a weeklong journey along the Rhine or Danube, drifting past castles, vineyards, and charming villages, or simply opt for a sunset cruise on your last evening in the city, the water has a way of making everything feel slower and more romantic.
20. Paraglide
Paragliding may not be the first thing that comes to mind when planning romantic getaways for couples, but trust me—there is nothing quite like the shared adrenaline of launching off a mountain. Chris and I did this off Mt. Pilatus in Switzerland and it was one of the most exhilarating moments of our travels. It may not shout “romantic” but it is absolutely unforgettable. Be sure to book your adventure through a reputable company.
>> Related Post: Paragliding off Mt. Pilatus in Switzerland
21. Photograph the Views & Take Selfies
One of my favorite things about traveling anywhere is taking pictures. I love the architecture, the old towns, the rolling hills of Italy, the small villages in France, and the beaches along the coast of Portugal. Snapping a few selfies along the way is the perfect way to capture the two of you in the places you love most—and trust me, you’ll be glad you did.
>> Related Post: 25 Brilliant iPhone Travel Photography Tips You’ll Actually Use
22. Plan a Massage or Spa Day Together
Chris is awesome about finding places around the world for us to have a couples massage. We’ve enjoyed massages on Boracay (Philippines), Papeete (Tahiti), and Malta recently. Pamper yourselves with a relaxing treatment.
23. Pose at the “I Love You” Wall in Paris
If you haven’t found the “I Love You” Wall in Paris yet, you may want to add this as a quick stop. It isn’t too far from Montmartre. Nothing says romance better than “I love you.” The exact address for Google Maps is: Square Jehan Rictus, Place de Abesses, Butte Montmartre 75018 Paris
24. Relax at the Beach
Chris and I have become “relax at the beach people” in the past couple of years. Our vacations are often packed from morning to night trying to see and do as much as possible, but when we finally slowed down, we became completely hooked on this style of travel. Relaxing at the beach—or in overwater bungalows if you really want to commit—gives you the time to disconnect from everything else and actually be present with each other.
25. Rent a Car for Scenic Coastline Drives
Planning a visit to some of the most romantic cities in Europe? Many of them are connected by stunning coastal roads that are worth the drive on their own. Rent a car, book a driver, or join a tour so you can enjoy the views and discover some amazing Instagrammable locations along the way.
26. Ride Bikes
For an adventure on two wheels, consider renting bikes and exploring at your own pace. Chris and I rode bikes along the Danube River in Austria and it remains one of our favorite low-key travel days. The views through charming riverside villages are outstanding, and the freedom to stop on a whim—for a picnic, a gelato, or a spontaneous selfie—makes it feel less like sightseeing and more like actually living in the moment.
27. Ride the Bernina Express in Switzerland
The Bernina Express is a fantastic scenic rail journey that chugs through the heart of the Swiss Alps. The panoramic cars with floor-to-ceiling windows make sure you don’t miss a single moment as you pass steep alpine peaks, sparkling lakes, and charming villages. Chris and I loved every minute of it and would go back without hesitation.
PRO TIP * You can book different carriages on the Bernina Express train that allow you to view the same scenery with the option of lowering windows for optimum picture taking.
28. Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth
European countries offer a variety of treats and pastries to satisfy your sweet tooth. Consider croissants and macarons in Paris, chocolate anything in Switzerland, apple strudel in Germany, baklava in Greece, churros and hot chocolate in Spain, tiramisu in Italy, pastel de Belém (custard tarts) in Portugal, or stroopwafels in Amsterdam. Is your mouth watering yet?
29. Schedule a Photoshoot for Two!
One of my favorite family photoshoots took place while we were on vacation at the beach. Chris and I would love a photoshoot just for the two of us as our focus has always been on capturing memories with our girls and family. There is something special about having a professional photographer document just the two of you. Strolling through an old town, walking along the beach, or posing at a landmark you traveled across an ocean to see. Those are the kind of photos you actually frame.
>> Related Post: 13 Creative Ways to Easily Share & Display Travel Photos
30. Snorkel
Have you had the chance to try snorkeling? Europe has golden opportunities in Sardinia (Italy), Crete (Greece), the Azores (Portugal), Gozo (Malta), and Norway. Blue Gym, a UK-based project, shares recent studies observing “that individuals living near the coast are generally healthier and happier than those living inland.” My take? If you don’t already live close to the ocean, be sure to plan a vacation to the ocean and have a little snorkel fun while you’re at it!
>> Related Post: 25 Pros and Cons of a Full Face Snorkel Mask for Tropical Snorkel Spots
31. Soak in Thermal Springs
Chris and I have discovered a lot of hot springs in our home state of Colorado, but thermal springs in Europe are a whole different experience. From the famous Blue Lagoon in Iceland to hidden soaking pools in Slovenia and the Azores, Europe delivers some of the most spectacular settings imaginable. Hot springs can be a fun adventure and a genuinely relaxing escape—just make sure you know the essential hot springs etiquette before you go, as many are fragile ecosystems worth protecting.
32. Soar to the Top of the Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower was designed for the Paris World Fair of 1889 by French engineer Gustave Eiffel. Parisians were skeptical about this imposing iron monument at first, but it is impossible now to imagine the Paris skyline without it. The tower, visible from almost every corner of the city, the climb to the summit delivers some of the most breathtaking views in all of Europe—especially at sunset. If there is one stop on this entire list that earns its reputation, it’s this one.
33. Speed Along the Amalfi Coast on a Boat Tour
Enjoy a boat tour along the Amalfi Coast from Sorrento. It is one of the most spectacular stretches of coastline in all of Europe. Once you round the peninsula your skipper may pull into quiet coves along the way for swimming and snacks. Stops in Amalfi and Positano give you the chance to explore the colorful cliffside towns or simply find a spot on the beach and stay a while.
34. Stay Overnight on Mt. Pilatus in Switzerland
Staying overnight at the Hotel Pilatus Kulm was a bucket list item for Chri. Honestly, once you see the sunset from that summit, you’ll understand why. Travel up the mountain by gondola with your luggage in tow, deposit your bags and backpacks in your room, and then step outside to watch the Swiss Alps turn every shade of orange and gold. It’s the kind of evening that feels completely removed from the rest of the world.
Check dates & availability at Hotel Pilatus Kulm
35. Stop for a Picnic Under the Sycamores in the South of France
When Chris and I visited the South of France, we loved driving along the sycamore-lined roads as we explored. We spotted a random picnic table and decided it called for a stop for lunch. That is one of the great things about romantic European getaways: your schedule is your own and you can stop on a whim.
36. Take a Walking Tour
I highly recommend booking a walking tour with a knowledgeable guide when visiting the romantic cities in Europe. These tours are one of the best ways to discover the history and stories behind iconic landmarks that you would never find on your own. Put on comfortable walking shoes and let your guide bring the city to life around you. Walking tours make a perfect introduction to any European city whether you are on empty nester romantic getaways or celebrating a honeymoon.
Pro Tip * If your walking tour is advertised as “FREE,” tips are highly recommended. A good baseline is $5 per person or $10 per hour, adjusted up based on the length of the tour, the size of your group, and how knowledgeable and personable your guide was. Don’t forget to tip!
37. Tour a Chocolate Factory
If you find yourself in Zurich, the Lindt Home of Chocolate is an easy yes. Chris and I may have taken full advantage of the samples offered during our tour and eaten our admission tickets’ worth before we even reached the gift shop. We spent about 2.5 hours at the factory, picked up a few chocolates to take home, and then walked to the train station ready for our next adventure.
Tour the Lindt Chocolate Factory in Switzerland
38. Try a Canal Tour in Amsterdam
Amsterdam is a city best experienced from the water. Book an intimate canal tour to discover the colorful row homes that have inspired artists and illustrators for centuries, lining the canals between Amsterdam Centraal Station and Dam Square. Once you have explored the city, add the colorful tulip fields of the Netherlands to your bucket list as well.
39. Visit a Lavender Field
If visiting a lavender field in Europe is on your list, timing your visit is essential. The vibrant purple fields are typically at peak bloom in midsummer, so plan accordingly. Some of the best destinations include:
- Provence, France
- Cotswolds, England
- Piedmont, Italy
- Valensole Plateau, France
- Brihuega, Spain
40. Wander Through Mont Saint-Michel
Mont Saint-Michel is one of those places that looks like it was pulled straight from a medieval painting. Uniquely situated on a small rocky island off the coast of Normandy, it is completely surrounded by water at high tide. Wouldn’t an overnight stay here would be extraordinary? While you are there, be sure to explore?
- The view from the west terrace
- The cloister gallery and its architectural details
- The refectory (where the monks ate)
- The monks’ walkway
>> Related Post: 15 Unforgettable Things to Do In Normandy, France
Check Booking.com for places to stay in Mont Saint-Michel.
What to Pack for Your Romantic European Getaway
No matter which of these romantic things to do in Europe makes your itinerary, having the right gear makes every experience better. These are the travel essentials Chris and I never leave home without.
Travel Must-Haves
Sunscreen: Use sunscreen every day, not just on your beach days.
Laundry Detergent Pods: If you travel for more than a week, you will likely need to do laundry.
Hand Sanitizer: For all the things you touch throughout the day, hand sanitizer is essential.
Travel Adapter: Not all international countries use the same adapters. Be sure to check before you go. Purchase one here.
Travel Backpack: Chris likes his The North Face Recon Backpack. I use The North Face Surge backpack designed for women.
Crossbody Anti-Theft Bag: Pickpocketing is a real concern in busy cities. A secure crossbody bag keeps your belongings close without the bulk. I love the Travelon Anti-theft Messenger Bag.
Packing Cubes: A game changer for staying organized, especially when you’re moving between cities. Shop packing cubes here.
Portable Power Bank: Long days of sightseeing, navigation, and photography will drain your phone faster than you think. Don’t get caught without one. Shop power banks here.
Walking Shoes: You will cover a lot of ground. Comfortable, broken-in shoes are non-negotiable. Shop walking shoes here.
Favorite Camera: My go-to DSLR is the Canon 6D Mark II and it has never let me down. If you’re ready to go mirrorless, the Canon EOS R6 Mark III is the natural upgrade—and your existing Canon EF lenses work on it with an adapter. New to photography? Start with the Canon EOS R50.
Get a Travel Credit Card: We often travel worldwide for free using travel rewards. The Chase Sapphire Reserve is one of our favorite travel credit cards.
Favorite Electronics: We are a family of Apple users—watches, phones, tablets, AirPods, and Apple AirTags for security. Don’t forget the cables and chargers too. Check out our electronics suggestions here.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most romantic cities in Europe?
Some of the most romantic cities in Europe include Cinque Terre and Venice in Italy, Paris in France, Santorini in Greece, Prague in Czechia, Budapest in Hungary, and Lake Como in Italy. Each one offers a completely different flavor of romance, so the best choice depends on what kind of trip you are planning.
What can you do to keep the romance alive?
A few ideas include surprising your partner with flowers, planning weekend getaways to romantic cities in Europe, picking up their favorite chocolate, walking along the beach together, preparing a special meal at home, or writing a heartfelt letter. Sometimes the smallest gestures make the biggest impression.
Which city is the “Love Capital” of Europe?
Paris, France—also known as the City of Love—has been attracting couples for centuries. It has long been considered one of the most romantic places in Europe to propose.
What is the most romantic country in Europe?
France consistently tops the list as the most romantic country in Europe, thanks to Paris, the Loire Valley châteaux, the lavender fields of Provence, and the sun-drenched coastline of the French Riviera. Italy runs a very close second with Cinque Terre, the Amalfi Coast, Venice, and Tuscany all making a strong case.
What is the best time of year to visit Europe for couples?
Late spring (May and June) and early fall (September and October) are the sweet spots for a romantic European getaway. The weather is pleasant, the crowds are thinner than peak summer, and prices tend to be more reasonable. If seeing lavender fields or attending a local festival is on your list, summer may be worth the trade-off.
What are the most romantic places in Europe to propose?
Europe has no shortage of stunning proposal spots. Some of the most popular include the Eiffel Tower in Paris, the clifftop views of Santorini in Greece, the canals of Venice, the lakeside village of Hallstatt in Austria, Monterosso al Mare in Cinque Terre, and the Alcázar of Segovia in Spain. Any of them would make for a story worth telling for the rest of your lives.
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Your Most Romantic European Adventure Starts Here
Whether you are planning empty nester romantic getaways or searching for the most romantic places in Europe to propose, Europe has a way of delivering exactly what you need. From iconic landmarks to hidden corners, these 40 romantic things to do in Europe are perfect for couples of all ages and every kind of celebration. All that is left to do is pick your destination and start packing.
Grab my free Europe travel planning guide below and start mapping out your most romantic European adventure yet.
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So many wonderful romantic activities in Europe! Mont St. Michel and fairy tale castles are both very high on my bucket list.
Wow! This is an incredible list of romantic things to do in Europe. I have had a chance to do several things on the list, but at the top of my bucket list is to see the Northern Lights. One day soon, hopefully!
There really are so many romantic things to do. I would love to do a hot air balloon ride in Turkey.
I’ve done quite a few of the romantic things on your list – I guess I’m more romantic than I realised!
So many wonderful places to explore.. My fav would be the Lindt Chocolate factory or any food related spot!
So many amazing and romantic things to in Europe! I’d love to take a hot air balloon ride anywhere, but especially in Cappadocia… talk about a bucket list item.
So many good ideas! I plan to visit the Mt St Michel soon but the weather in Normandy is scary even during summer, haha!
There are indeed so many romantic things to do on a visit to Europe. I checked “done” for a bunch and have added others for a return visit. We got lucky in Venice to get a gondola ride when the vaporettos were on strike and the waters were quiet. Otherwise I am not sure most people would think this is always romantic!
Love these ideas! Our favorites are visiting Christmas markets, and also wandering through old towns, getting off the tourist track, and stumbling on a small local restaurant.
We have so many romantic places here, even our villas (in Italy) are perfect for a dinner.
As a couple based in Europe we’ve done about 70% of these and absolutely agree !!!
Such a great list! Europe is full of beautiful spots for a romantic getaway. A gondola ride in Venice and a hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia are definitely on my bucket list now. Thanks for the inspiration!
It is such an awesome list, so many bucket list ideas. I am so desperate to see the northern lights