1. Venice - Italy
When it comes to romantic cities, Venice undoubtedly takes the lead. The name Venice (or Venezia in the local language) derives from the ancient Veneti people who lived around the 10th century BCE. In Latin, Venice means love. Hence, it is dubbed the 'City of Love.' Located in the northeast of Italy, the city floating on water with its colorful houses attracts millions of couples annually.
Venice, also known as Venezia in Italian, is famous for various nicknames such as the City of Canals, Floating City, Serenissima, Queen of the Adriatic, Water City, City of Bridges, and more. It serves as the capital of the Veneto region and the province of Venezia in Italy.
Exploring Venice, you will be amazed by over 120 Renaissance-style churches, 100 bell towers, 40 palaces, and more. Every year, Venice welcomes over 25 million tourists to admire the landscape, architecture, and lifestyle of this northeastern Italian city.
Venice is a city of beauty and romance in every small detail. From gentle boats drifting along the canals to colorful houses, from antique shops full of history to elegant and sophisticated restaurants, Venice scores a perfect 10 in the hearts of tourists.
2. Verona - Italy
Situated in northern Italy, Verona is one of the captivating tourist destinations with unique cultural and architectural landmarks. It is also renowned for the romantic tale of Romeo and Juliet. The city, the hometown of Juliet, witnessing the love story of the century in Shakespeare's epic, has long attracted many tourists for its romance and mystery. Everyone seeks to touch the right breast of Juliet's statue, believing that it brings everlasting luck and love.
Some key attractions of the city include the Roman Arena (located in the historic center, a must-visit), Giardino Gusti (a garden with caves and mysterious mazes), Piazza delle Erbe (an ancient Roman square turned into a charming outdoor market), Lamberti Tower (climb the tower for a panoramic view of Verona), various churches and cathedrals, notably San Zeno Maggiore, the ancient Castelvecchio castle, and, of course, Juliet's House.
3. Paris - France
Every street in the city of Paris (France) is adorned with countless couples. Paris always tops any list discussing romance and love. It attracts not only tourists with shopping, historical sites, unique architecture, and enticing cuisine but is also an ideal destination for wedding photoshoots and honeymoons, chosen by many famous couples. In Paris, couples will feel romance enveloping everything. Activities such as watching the sunset at the Eiffel Tower, strolling hand in hand along the Seine River, or exploring museums, the Versailles Palace, and making French pastries together will undoubtedly provide unforgettable honeymoon experiences. If you visit Paris in spring, you will fall in love with its romantic beauty. This season is also the favorite of the French. Like spring in any other country, spring in France is painted pink by various flowers along the streets, on balconies, and in every small house. You will see Paris emerge like a familiar movie: People wearing light coats, sitting at outdoor cafes enjoying coffee while observing the street.
Summer in Paris brings pleasant weather, with the highest temperature reaching only 32°C as it is a temperate country. During this time, people often gather at public swimming pools or artificial beaches to immerse themselves in the water, sunbathe, and enjoy refreshing drinks to ward off the heat. Moving on to autumn, the weather is cooler than in summer, sometimes rainy, generally humid, and slightly cold. Therefore, if you travel in the fall, it's advisable to prepare thick coats and umbrellas to guard against sudden rain. In winter, the temperature can be quite harsh for those coming from tropical regions like us because, during the day, the sky is quite gloomy, and it can be cold. When it snows, the temperature can drop to -5 °C, but this is a rare occurrence, mostly still above freezing. Although it's cold, the snow cover is not thick, allowing you to enjoy your Paris honeymoon while watching the falling snow.
4. Budapest - Hungary
The charming capital of Hungary along the Danube River is the perfect romantic destination for newlyweds. With its enchanting and sophisticated style, the capital of Hungary offers appealing attractions and experiences, from quaint coffee shops, historical sites, beautiful landscapes to top-notch dining. Here, you can start your day with a delightful breakfast and champagne, cruise on the Danube River to admire the city, relax at a traditional spa, take a cable car to Buda Hill, and end the day with a romantic dinner and red wine.
An exciting first experience when traveling to Hungary to explore Budapest is taking a boat on the famous Danube River to discover the lively life here. You will enjoy the romantic scenery with bridges spanning the river, such as Chain Bridge, Elizabeth Bridge, Margaret Bridge, and Liberty Bridge. Witness the sparkling lights at night on this romantic river and have unforgettable moments. Especially during Christmas, there is a beautiful fireworks display with a ticket price of 10 Euros, including a free drink. If you're willing to spend more, you can have dinner on a luxurious boat with private and romantic space.
5. Prague - Czech Republic
Prague stands out as one of Europe's beloved travel destinations, offering a romantic atmosphere and notably affordable prices. The city boasts grand castles, palaces, impressive Gothic architecture, and charming cobblestone streets. Prague seamlessly combines its ancient charm with modern vibes, providing a lively yet serene environment, perfect for couples. Additionally, Prague offers delightful culinary experiences, featuring some of the world's finest beers and romantic dinners with exquisite wines and delectable dishes. If you seek tranquility and peace, cozy central hotels like Mandarin Oriental or Four Seasons Prague are excellent choices.
Notable landmarks in the Czech Republic would be incomplete without mentioning Prague Castle. This medieval castle is the largest of its kind globally, housing an exhibit showcasing the nation's history in Bohemian style. The castle comprises various buildings and gardens, creating a perfect ensemble. Additionally, St. Vitus Cathedral, located within the Prague Castle complex in Castle District along the west bank of the Vltava River, is considered the Roman Catholic cathedral and the most significant church in the Czech Republic. The cathedral serves as the final resting place of kings, featuring a stunning system of tombs. It warmly welcomes visitors, so don't miss this opportunity to explore.
6. Santorini - Greece
Greece is renowned for its rich history, beautiful villages, sun-kissed beaches, delightful cuisine, and friendly atmosphere. It has long been on the list of top travel destinations in Europe. Comprising a mountainous mainland and hundreds of islands, each place exudes its own beauty, stunning landscapes, unique historical sites, vibrant nightlife, and intriguing cultural festivals. The most famous crescent-shaped island of Greece, Santorini, is one of the most sought-after honeymoon destinations globally. Often referred to as the gem of the Aegean, Santorini is a C-shaped island with steep cliffs, ancient Greek houses, narrow streets, stairs, and picturesque beaches. Renowned for its spectacular sunsets, unique Greek cuisine, world-class wines, and famous historical sites, Santorini provides travelers with a myriad of honeymoon experiences.
Stroll hand in hand with your significant other along the narrow streets of Oia, relax on serene beaches, or admire the sunset together in Fira. All these activities contribute to a romantic and fantastic honeymoon experience. In Santorini, couples can choose from upscale hotels offering private spaces, balconies overlooking the sea, and various premium services, with prices starting at around $100/night. Additionally, don't forget to participate in exciting tourist activities such as snorkeling, sunset watching, catamaran cruises, exploring history, or indulging in enticing glasses of wine. Santorini is a renowned tourist island in Greece, known as the 'Paradise in the Aegean.' Anyone who visits Santorini will be captivated by its unique architectural style, a perfect blend of two colors, white and sky blue. Occasionally, you may spot a few bougainvillea blossoms or charming souvenir shops, adding charm to the scenery.
7. Rome - Italy
'All roads lead to Rome!' and so does love. Rome, the romantic city, is the ideal destination for those in love. What could be more enchanting than praying together at the iconic Trevi Fountain and strolling hand in hand on the cobblestone path from the fountain to the square - the witness to the beautiful love story of Princess Ann and the journalist in the classic film 'Roman Holiday.' Rome's most notable landmarks include the Colosseum, Venice Square, Foro Italico outdoor museum, St. Peter's and St. Paul's Basilica, the Vatican Museums, Garibaldi Square, Navona Square, Spanish Steps Square - Spagna, and the Trevi Fountain (Fontana di Trevi),...
When in Rome, you will also have the opportunity to explore the Vatican, a separate country within Rome's borders. On Wednesday mornings, you might even have the honor of meeting the Pope during his audience with the faithful. Honeymooning in Rome may not require a tour guide, as everything to see is along one route. Just bring a travel guidebook like Lonely Planet; city maps are available for free at the airport and hotels. The locals are proficient in English. Dining in Rome is worry-free, as the food is delicious. You can visit many eateries, paying attention to the menu and prices outside before entering. For budget-friendly options, indulge in pizza at the numerous pizzerias around; approximately 4 - 5 EUR/person for lunch will leave you pleasantly satisfied.
8. Hamburg - Germany
Hamburg, the second-largest city in Germany, is not only a major metropolis but also a significant economic hub. With its romantic charm and a touch of classic elegance, Hamburg is considered the most enchanting tourist destination in Germany.
If you're wondering where to go in Hamburg, don't miss St. Peter's Church. Built in 1849, it is a famous landmark that every visitor to Hamburg explores. With its unique and impressive design, along with the display of many famous artworks, St. Peter's Church always attracts special attention from tourists. Especially, make sure to climb to the top of the building to enjoy a panoramic view of the city, a truly fascinating experience.
Many experienced travelers recommend not missing the two streets, Reeperbahn and St. Pauli, when visiting Hamburg. These are the most vibrant and lively entertainment districts in the city, featuring numerous shops, amusement areas, bars, and more. Another must-visit in Hamburg is the Elbphilharmonie concert hall, the most modern concert hall in the world. Besides exploring the architecture of the concert hall, enjoying exceptional musical performances, visitors also have the opportunity to discover the entire city from the rooftop of the building.
9. Barcelona - Spain
Spain is a major global tourist destination with many unique attractions. One of the most ideal and romantic honeymoon destinations, sweetest in Europe, is Spain. With its rich, diverse, and vibrant culture, Barcelona promises couples the most meaningful honeymoon. While Spain's Mediterranean coastline is perfect for newlyweds, the city of Barcelona offers the best cultural, culinary, and entertainment experiences for couples. Don't forget to visit Boqueria - the world's best market, the Costa Brava coast, unique architectural structures, and famous tourist attractions in Spain.
Two most visited architectural wonders in Barcelona are the works of the famous architect Antoni Gaudi. If Sagrada Familia is a gigantic Roman Catholic Church interpreted in the Modernist Gothic style, then Casa Battlo is a unique building known as the 'House of Bones' (Casa del ossos) locally due to its resemblance to internal organs and bones. The modernist Guell Park - recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site and one of Gaudi's early works. In addition, the renowned La Rambla boulevard is the 'check-in' point for most tourists in Barcelona. It's a bustling area with numerous souvenir shops, dining restaurants, and captivating street performances. La Rambla serves as the central hub for exploring Barcelona without getting lost. Day or night, La Rambla is always bustling with tourists, and you'll hear greetings like 'hola' from vendors, the sound of rolling suitcases, and the chirping of birds along the tree-lined street.
10. Ljubljana - Slovenia
Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, is a beautiful, green city with the dreamy Ljubljanica River flowing through. Exploring Ljubljana, travelers will feel the peaceful, picturesque beauty that is truly extraordinary.
The capital city of Ljubljana is the cultural, educational, economic, and political center of Slovenia. Located in the heart of Slovenia, Ljubljana is a city with a rich history, deeply rooted in the country's traditions. Visitors can easily see the traces of the Habsburg family's influence on this city, giving them a sense of the majestic past of this beautiful capital.
Ljubljana is a must-visit tourist destination for couples! The old town, situated on the other side of the famous Triple Bridge, is believed to be the most beautiful and captivating part of the city. As evidence of your visit, place a love lock on the bridge to make your love last forever! Additionally, if you enjoy water, a romantic boat trip on the Ljubljanica River is a fantastic idea.
11. Amsterdam - Netherlands
Despite being renowned as a favorite destination for bachelor parties, Amsterdam is also a must-visit for honeymooners. The city's cobblestone streets and vibrant canals make it perfect for leisurely bike rides or romantic strolls, earning its place as a top honeymoon destination. Vondelpark and Keukenhof Park offer ideal camping spots under the open sky. When thinking of the Netherlands, the image of endless tulip fields comes to mind. Starting from early April each year, the tulip season blooms. If you want to witness the full beauty of 70 million tulips in the capital city Amsterdam, this is the perfect time. Amsterdam residents take great pride in hosting the world-famous tulip festival annually. The Keukenhof Flower Festival takes place in the town of Lisse, southwest of Amsterdam, from March 22 to May 20. During this time, visitors can immerse themselves in the world's largest tulip garden, feeling like they've stepped into a dream. The exquisite beauty of 1600 tulip varieties displaying their colors is enchanting, making visitors want to stay in this enchanting place forever.
The Netherlands not only evokes memories with its endless tulip fields but is also the kingdom of windmills. Just 18km from Amsterdam is the suburban village called Zaanse Schans, which boasts a total of 13 windmills, including 6 that are centuries old. These windmills stand peacefully along the picturesque Zaanse River, creating a rarely seen serene landscape. Looking further across the river, thousands of other windmills come into view. The harshness of weather and time has unintentionally damaged these windmills, leaving only a few well-preserved ones. Stepping into the Zaanse Schans village, visitors feel like they are exploring the world of giants. Each majestic windmill with its towering blades, dozens of meters long, slowly captures the passing breeze. To get here, visitors only need to spend a 10-minute train ride from the city center. The colorful historic houses in the village also contribute to the distinctive charm of the honeymoon map in Amsterdam.
12. Copenhagen - Denmark
Denmark is considered the happiest country in the world. Traveling to Denmark without visiting Copenhagen would be a significant omission. Indeed, traveling to Copenhagen promises unique experiences with ancient, colorful architectural structures, and above all, the rare tranquility that few places can offer.
If Denmark always tops the happiness index, Copenhagen is dubbed the greenest and happiest city in the world. The capital of Denmark is a perfect combination of ancient historic neighborhoods and modern, bold architectural structures. Visitors can cycle to explore this place, blending in with environmentally friendly and friendly people.
Copenhagen is a land of dynamism and has a unique attraction with a series of famous tourist attractions such as the Little Mermaid statue, the City Hall, the Malmo Bridge, the Thorvaldsens Museum, Rosenborg Castle, Frederiksborg Slot building, Tivoli amusement park, J.C.Jacobsens Have park, and the Nytory canal.
13. Hallstatt - Austria
Hallstatt is a small village located next to Hallstätter See lake, nestled between the cities of Salzburg and Graz, in northern Austria, surrounded by misty Alps. Every year, thousands of tourists come here to witness the fairytale scenery that the village has preserved for 7000 years.
The name of the village originates from the Hallstatt culture - the center of European culture in the early Iron Age. Hallstatt is nestled against the mountain with a view of Hallstätter See lake - one of the most beautiful lakes in Austria, offering spectacular natural scenery. Due to its 'mountain-facing water' location, reaching Hallstatt requires a boat/ferry across the lake. As the boat slowly navigates, the beautiful landscape gradually unfolds with vibrant houses reflected on the water's surface.
Walking on the village lanes, visitors seem to feel the breath of life from thousands of years ago. Behind the lakeside road are small charming houses that look like paintings, vines clinging to the railing and blooming flowers on the walls, layered roofs following the hills, and old brick walls on the slope... all create the ancient beauty of the village. The beauty of the village lies not only in its location and surrounding landscape but also in every balcony and street corner. The people here take great care of their homes; there is no window or balcony without fresh flowers. Wooden windowsills overflow with hanging flowers, displaying various colors, but red flowers are the most enchanting for every passerby. Particularly, the residents here are fond of growing fruit trees and training climbing plants on house walls. It's rare to see fruit trees horizontally growing and crawling on the wall like vines. In front of many houses, souvenirs are hung, diverse... and salt is one of the special souvenirs displayed in various models sold here.
14. Bruges - Belgium
Bruges is a highly popular tourist destination in Belgium known for its exceptionally romantic ambiance. The scenery here is adorned with numerous ancient bridges covered in moss that stretch over small canals beneath the city. The city boasts a medieval European architectural style. Bruges is an enticing destination for many romantic couples, characterized by its unique small vintage buildings.
Bruges was once considered the capital of the Vlaanderen region, in the northwest of the Kingdom of Belgium. The city covers a relatively small area of only 140 km2 with a population of around 120,000 people. Bruges is a city with an intricate network of winding canals, often compared to a Venice of Northern Europe. The small canals gracefully envelop the city. From any perspective, tourists on a Belgium tour can admire images of small historic houses reflected in the clear waters of the canals.
The name Bruges first appeared in the 9th century, located near the North Sea; today, Bruges has developed into a powerful commercial port circulating in Europe. Despite the ups and downs of time, Bruges still preserves its architectural features and the tranquility of life.
Visiting Bruges, tourists on a Belgium tour will feel as if they have stepped into a slow-paced European film, as the entire surrounding landscape is composed of buildings with a distinct European style from the Middle Ages, blending Gothic architecture with the city's characteristic architecture. Intertwined with that are houses made of silver-gray wood over time, red-tiled houses, beautiful and heart-wrenching squares, or Gothic-style bell towers, all of which give Bruges a fluctuating, peaceful appearance. In 2000, the historic center of Bruges was UNESCO-listed as a World Heritage Site.
15. Florence - Italy
Florence city has always been one of the top destinations in Europe and the world, no matter the time or season of the year. Surely, you won't find a place like this on your Europe tour – where you seem to be traveling back to the past while experiencing the splendor of the Renaissance and admiring some of the most beautiful landmarks in Florence.
Florence is the backdrop for many romantic films. Visitors are always impressed by the unique scenery, exquisite architecture, and the friendly, welcoming nature of the locals. The distinctive cuisine is also a plus, making it one of the most visited tourist destinations in the world.
The city with over 2,000 years of history in the land of pasta is not only famous for its many ancient architectural masterpieces but is also renowned as a culinary capital outside the world. When in Florence, tourists can witness the beauty of the ancient artworks from a glorious period in European cultural history.
16. Mont Saint-Michel - France
One of the captivating tourist destinations in France, ranking only after the Eiffel Tower and Versailles, is the Mont Saint Michel Abbey. It is considered one of the most beautiful castles in Europe.
The rocky island of Mont Saint Michel is located more than 350 km from the capital city of Paris, a commune in Normandy, France. With a relatively modest area (about 100 hectares) and surrounded by the sea on all four sides, the island has a sparse population of around 50 people. Centuries ago, Mont Saint Michel served as a formidable fortress for France and, at the same time, the main church of the Saint Michel Abbey. This is also why the island is named Saint Michel.
With its pristine and ancient beauty, this island always ranks among the most beloved tourist destinations in France. Its most notable feature is the castle that appeared in the famous movie 'The Lord of the Rings.' Despite being a tourist attraction, with accommodation, dining options, hotels, restaurants, and souvenir shops mushrooming, what makes it unique is that this development does not affect the civilized and polite culture of the local people. Remarkably, the place still preserves its traditional indigenous beauty.