Awesome Romantic Destinations in Europe for the Modern Day Romeo and Juliet

Whether looking to wow that special somebody, or to rekindle a relationship that has become stale, a trip to a romantic destination for a week or two can do anybody a world of good. Some destinations are just more romantic than others, where the setting and the ambiance means love comes with a capital L. Here are some of the best romantic destinations in Europe.

Paris, France

Paris is one of the most romantic destinations in the world. The city of light has long called to lovers to enjoy the many sights, take walks along the Seine, sail on romantic river cruises and bask in the deliciousness of the bistros and cafes. Having called to artists, writers and creative souls for centuries who paint, poeticise and enact the drama of love, the romance of Paris is undeniable.

Paris, FranceTaylorMiles 

The Eiffel Tower is the iconic symbol of the city. Take a trip to the top of the tower for panoramic views across the city, or even follow in the footsteps of Tom Cruise and pop the question.

Other places to visit while in Paris include the Arc de Triomphe, the Louvre, and Napoleon’s Tomb. Walk hand in hand in the Tuileries Gardens, take photos in the Place de la Concorde and pop across the square for afternoon tea in Le Crillon, one of the most luxurious hotels in the city.

Oia, Greece

Greece is a traditional holiday destination for those who want to acquire a great tan. But look further than the party destinations of Zante and Corfu and head for Santorini – widely accepted as the most gorgeous of all the Greek Islands. Oia is a small village on the north of the island that makes the perfect place for romance – Greek style.

One of the most widely taken and most recognizable travel photographs are those of the beautiful blue-domed churches that tower over the surrounding whitewashed buildings. Lovers in Oia can indulge in the stunning scenery, walk the sands at Baxedes and Katharos and be in awe of the glorious sunsets. Lacking the noisy tourist trappings of other resorts, Ois is ideal for cozy evenings in family run tavernas, dining on delicious authentic cuisine washed down with glasses of metaxa and ouzo.

London, England

Don’t be fooled into thinking that London is all history and pomp and circumstance. It has plenty for the romantic couple looking for somewhere special to enjoy time with each other. The city has an abundance of famous sites, and in its history there are many stories of love and romance.

Visit St. Paul’s Cathedral and Westminster Abbey – the scene for countless royal weddings over the centuries, stroll down the Mall to view the Buckingham Palace balcony where many a royal romance has been sealed with a public kiss, and visit the Tower of London. The Tower has a grisly history, but love is at the heart of many of its stories – for example, the story of Anne Boleyn who died for the lack of love by a king for his queen.

The London Eye has become firmly fixed as one of the main attractions of London, and for a special treat, you can book out an entire capsule for a champagne flight and the most incredible views across the city, which takes in many of London’s most recognizable sites such as the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben.

Granada, Spain

Spain is a major holiday destination for people from all over Europe who flock to the sun drenched beaches, but some of Spain’s cities present the ideal break of seaside and urban splendor. Granada oozes romance thanks to the Western and Moorish influences which come together and is most symbolized by the stunning architecture of the ancient fortress of The Alhambra.

Unlike a lot of these ancient fortresses, it hasn’t been gutted through war or pillaging. It’s completely intact inside and out. Elegant fountains and works of art are just some of the things that can be found within its confines.

With streets just ripe for a stroll in the afternoon for some window shopping, or for a degustation before an evening meal in one of the many fine restaurants, Granada is definitely a destination for lovers.

Venice, Italy

Some would argue Venice should be at the top of the list of the most romantic destinations in the world. A romantic cruise down the canals of the city is something that has been portrayed in countless films and books, and visitors shouldn’t miss out on the experience. Choose a gondola that has heart-shaped pillows, soft cushions, and masterfully-carved seats so you can snuggle up and enjoy the sights as you float by.

Venice wears its history. Top of the list are St. Mark’s Basilica and the Piazza San Marco. Book a trip to coincide with the world famous Venice Carnival or go star spotting at the Venice Film Festival.

Rome, Italy

Rome is another Italian location that can make for a memorable romantic trip. Of course, there’s the Coliseum to see and all the sights of the ancient empire such as the aqueducts, the forum and the various gates – but there’s so much more. Rome enjoyed great periods of architecture in the Renaissance and also after the formation of the Republic of Italy in the 19^th century, so not all sites are ancient.

Visit the stunning Villa Borghese in its lush green parkland, throw a coin in the Trevi Fountain, and buy a cooling gelato to lick as you climb the Spanish Steps hand in hand. Take a stroll through the Pineto Regional Park, and stop by the neoclassical Altare delle Patria. Known as the Altar of the Fatherland, it was built in the late 19th century after the newly formed Kingdom of Italy.

In the evening, find a back street trattoria and feast on tasty regional dishes while drinking locally made wine by the shimmering light of a candle or two.

Romance is on the surface of the great cities of Europe, but love runs deep, and it doesn’t take much effort to find it to enjoy a special and memorable time together.

[box]Author Bio: Alex is a travel writer and photographer from the UK who writes for the Resort Traveller. Check out his site if you’re looking for some insider tips on making your romantic island getaways more adventurous and fun-filled.[/box]