The romance of Europe is alluring. And it’s no wonder: its landscape is rich with fairytale castles, cozy restaurants, majestic landscapes and endless cobbled streets. Even without the romantic atmosphere, Europe’s many tourist destinations often offer the best of both worlds, such as a relaxing beach holiday and a vibrant city life. The continent offers endless opportunities for couples to travel. We've picked five destinations that any couple will love.
Pienza, Italy
Enjoy the history, culture and wines of Tuscany
Tuscany’s landscapes are always romantic, especially with plenty of sun and wine. Florence is rich in culture and great food. Head to the Accademia di Belle Arti to see the statue of David and the Uffizi Gallery to see the Birth of Venus, then dine at Gucci Osteria , helmed by three-Michelin-starred chef Massimo Bottura, all in one day. Admire the terracotta facades around Siena , where horse races are held twice a year in the shell-shaped 13th-century Piazza del Campo . To escape the crowds, head to Elba Island. Swimmers can take a dip in the crystal-clear waters, hikers can explore trails overlooking the Mediterranean, and history buffs can visit the Palazzina dei Mulini museum , Napoleon’s residence during his exile on the island. Back on the mainland, Tuscany boasts dozens of vineyards, including the coastal Terre del Marchesato in Bolgheri , reached by an avenue of 400-year-old cypress trees; the modern Antinori winery in the heart of Tuscany , famous for its Chianti Classico; and the lesser-visited Montecucco winery , perched on the slopes of Monte Amiata.
Where to stay
Book a room at COMO Castello del Nero , a luxury hotel built in the 12th century that specializes in wellness. Renaissance frescoes and rolling views of the 740-acre estate will vie for your attention, while the Michelin-starred La Torre restaurant serves up creative Italian cuisine. The COMO Shambhala Retreat takes a holistic approach to personalized treatments, while yoga and Pilates classes are set amid manicured gardens inspired by French design.
Glencoe, ScotlandImage:
Explore the mystical landscapes of the Scottish Highlands
Generations of writers, artists, poets and painters have found inspiration in the ethereal beauty of the Scottish Highlands. From Inverness , hikers can follow a variety of walking trails through the verdant landscape, including a 1.5-hour loop around the Shieldaig Peninsula or a more strenuous, multi-day route around Fisherfield Forest, an area known as the 'Great Wilderness'. There are almost 50 whisky distilleries scattered throughout the region, and whisky lovers can enjoy tasting tours at places like Glentarriet , the region's oldest distillery dating back to 1775, or the ever-popular Glenmorangie Distillery . Hearty Scottish food served in cosy restaurants is the perfect antidote to the often chilly Highland weather. A testament to this is The Struy Inn , a 19th-century country house restaurant where you can spend a delightful evening by the log fire, enjoying Scottish game and flowing whisky.
Where to stay
The Torridon Hotel is a 19th-century hunting lodge in the style of a Scottish country estate, with roaring log fires and views of the bleak sandstone mountains and endless pine forests. The on-site 1887 Restaurant features a pine-panelled dining room, providing the perfect backdrop to a gourmet menu of local game and seafood. The hotel can organise activities such as guided mountain biking, clay pigeon shooting and archery.
Navagio Beach, GreeceImage:
Go on a trip to the Greek islands
Choosing which islands to visit can be difficult, with 227 inhabited islands. You can’t go wrong by choosing a few, which are perfect for a romantic getaway depending on your interests. For starters, Mykonos is a party hub with lively clubs on every beach. The glamorous Jackie O’ Mykonos Bar at Super Paradise Beach Club serves champagne-based cocktails, while Soho House Scorpio Bar has a more relaxed vibe, with meditation sessions at sunset before the DJ starts spinning. If you’re looking for a special place for just the two of you, Santorini is the perfect option, with stunning sunsets and cosy restaurants. Head to Roka , which sits on a cliff-top terrace overlooking the endless sea. Crete , meanwhile, is renowned for its spa resorts: Blue Palace offers a menu of wellness treatments and secluded suites with private infinity pools. But for the ultimate in relaxation, head to Hydra , where there are no cars and people get around on foot or by donkey. Every corner of the island feels like a world away, from quaint trattorias like Il Casta to quiet beaches like Vlychos , where holidaymakers snooze on loungers under thatched umbrellas. These endless Mediterranean landscapes will make you and your partner feel like the only people in the world.
Where to stay
The tranquil Four Seasons Hydra is a haven of peace with pine trees hanging over the resort grounds. Minimalist suites in warm colours, a private garden and a veranda with a fireplace and sea views add a romantic touch to the place.
Alhambra and Albaicin in Granada, SpainImage:
Take a trip along the coast of Spain
With constant sunshine, stunning scenery and fascinating history at every turn, a road trip through southern Spain tops the list of the most romantic road trips. In Granada , at the foot of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, lies the Alhambra , with its stunning hilltop palaces, reflecting pools and verdant gardens. About two hours away, in Cordoba , you can experience the splendour of Andalusia, with its buildings featuring Roman and Islamic influences, such as the Roman Bridge over the Guadalquivir River and the Mezquita , a former mosque and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Seville , an hour and a half away, is a place where bullfighting and flamenco coexist , creating a sensual atmosphere. More archaeological sites can be found in coastal Cadiz , one of Europe's oldest continuously inhabited cities, which is located an hour and a half west of Seville. Be sure to check out the 100 watchtowers that were once used to watch for incoming ships.
Where to stay
The Sacristia de Santa Ana in Seville features quirky details like furniture hand-painted with pastoral scenes and upholstered in toile de Jouy. Appreciate the finer details like the star-shaped silhouettes carved into the ceiling, and take advantage of the hotel's convenient location in the city center.
Montagne de Reims, FranceImage:
Take a stroll through the Bordeaux wine region
Bordeaux intoxicates in many ways. Beyond its reputation as a wine capital, the region boasts architectural gems like the Place de la Bourse , natural wonders like the 18th-century English-style Public Garden and Michelin-starred restaurants like Le Pavillon des Boulevards . But the real draw is, of course, the wineries. It’s hard to go wrong, but two of the highlights are Château d’Agasseac , with its fairytale 13th-century chateau and wine-tasting dinners, and Château la Dominique and its Jean Nouvel-designed cellar. On the estate’s top floor, La Terrasse Rouge restaurant serves red and Merlot-based wines, rich French cuisine and stunning views.
Navagio Beach, GreeceImage:
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