Traveling to Europe for Valentines Day? Go to One of the These Five Destinations!

With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, it’s time to decide where to take the love of your life to celebrate this special day. Europe is known for having some of the most romantic cities in the world, such as Paris and Rome. The twinkling lights after sunset and the winding cobblestone streets provide for a calming and charming environment that make you feel like you’re in a love story! If big cities seem to intimidating, Europe has several smaller, less touristy towns that will make you feel like you discovered a real-life fairytale.

Below are my top five romantic European Valentine’s Day destinations along with some date ideas and dining recommendations that will make planning your romantic getaway a breeze! Don’t forget to check-out the travel guides too for even more ideas!

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#1: Paris, France

Paris, often called the City of Love, embodies romance at every turn. From its iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the cobblestone streets of Montmartre to its intimate cafés and candlelit Seine River cruises, the city offers an enchanting atmosphere perfect for Valentine’s Day. Picture strolling hand-in-hand along the Champs-Élysées, sharing a decadent dessert at a patisserie, or marveling at the sparkling lights of the Eiffel Tower as the evening sets in.

Paris’s timeless charm and artistic beauty make it a magical destination to create unforgettable memories with your significant other.

Date Ideas:

• Eiffel Tower
• River Boat Tour
• Louvre Museum

Dining Recs:

• Au Pied de Cochon – Classy Dinner
• Chez Suzette – Delicious Crepes
• Le Marché des Enfants Rouges – Casual Lunch Market

#2: Rome, Italy

Rome, the Eternal City, radiates timeless romance and charm, making it an ideal destination for Valentine’s Day. Its ancient ruins, such as the Colosseum and Roman Forum, serve as a backdrop to love stories that span centuries.

As night falls, the city comes alive with a golden glow, and its cobblestone streets become the perfect setting for strolling arm in arm with your love. Rome’s magical ambiance invites you to deepen your connection and celebrate your love in a truly unforgettable way.

Date Ideas:

• Walk Inside the Colosseum
• Toss a Coin in the Trevi Fountain
• Shop at the Campo De’ Fiori Market
• Tour St. Peter’s Basilica

Dining Recs:

• Taverna Trilussa – Cozy, Classy Dining
• Bar Farnese – Traditional Breakfast Bar
• Emma’s – Authentic Roman Pasta & Pizza
• Gelateria dei Gracchi – Creamy Gelato Spot

Check Out These Guides for Rome!

• Rome Eats: A Food Lover’s Guide to the Eternal City
• Rome’s Top Attractions: All the Details You Need to Know About!

#3: Lake Como, Italy

Lake Como, with its serene waters and dramatic alpine backdrop, offers a romantic escape like no other. Imagine taking a leisurely boat ride across the lake, exploring quaint towns like Bellagio or Varenna, and savoring a lakeside dinner as the sun sets in hues of pink and gold. In the evening, stroll hand in hand along the tranquil shores, where the soft ripple of the water and the twinkle of lights from hillside homes set the perfect mood.

Lake Como’s breathtaking beauty and peaceful ambiance make it a magical place to celebrate love. This idyllic destination is perfect for Valentine’s Day, with its charming villages, elegant villas, and picturesque promenades.

Date Ideas:

• Wander Around the Villa Monastero Gardens
• Sunset Ferry Across the Lake
• Window Shop Near Piazza della Chiesa

Dining Recs:

• Bar II Molo – Lakeside Outdoor Dining
• Varenna Caffe Bistrot – Charming Lakeside Coffee Shop
• Trattoria San Giacomo – Nice Indoor Dining

#4: Bruges & Ghent, Belgium

Bruges and Ghent, two of Belgium’s most enchanting towns, provide the perfect Valentine’s Day retreat for couples seeking charm and tranquility. With their medieval architecture, serene canals, and cobblestone streets, these towns invite you to slow down and savor each moment together.

In Bruges, take a romantic boat ride through the winding canals or share a cozy meal in a centuries-old bistro. In Ghent, explore the stunning castle, marvel at the illuminated waterfront, and enjoy quiet strolls along the picturesque quays. The relaxing ambiance and timeless beauty of these quaint destinations create the ideal environment to reconnect and celebrate your love.

Date Ideas:

• Romantic Canal Boat Ride
• Try Belgium Chocolate at Dumon Chocolatier or ELiSABETH Chocolatier
• Stroll through Minnewater Park
• Climb Up the Belfry of Ghent for Sunset

Dining Recs:

• That’s Toast – Bright, Airy Brunch Restaurant
• Lizzie’s Wafels – Perfect Spot to Try a Fresh Belgium Waffle
• The Neapolis – Delicious Italian Pizza

#5: Avignon, France

Avignon, nestled in the heart of Provence, is a dreamy destination for a Valentine’s Day getaway. This historic town enchants with its medieval charm, narrow winding streets, and the iconic Pont d’Avignon. Stroll hand in hand through the cobblestone alleys, discover hidden courtyards, and explore the majestic Palais des Papes. Enjoy a leisurely riverside walk or indulge in a candlelit dinner featuring Provence’s finest wines and cuisine.

With its serene ambiance and rich history, Avignon provides the perfect setting to relax, connect, and create unforgettable memories with your loved one.

Date Ideas:

• Views from Rocher des Doms Park
• Riverside Walk to the Pont d’Avignon
• Day Trip to the Nearby Town of Arles
• Window Shop Along Rue de la République

Dining Recs:

• Salon De Thé – Casual Coffee and Croissants
• Restaurant Le Violette – Romantic and Classy Hidden Gem for Dinner
• La Fourchette – Charming, Casual Lunch Spot
• Sticky Toffee Pudding

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Europe offers several of the most romantic cities in the world year-round, but especially around Valentine’s Day. Europe’s slower-pace culture really allows couples to relax and deepen their connection while exploring beautiful and charming cities.

If you’re thinking about celebrating Valentine’s Day in a grand way this year, then plan a trip to one of these five spots! The never-ending cobblestone streets, romantic and intimate dining spots, and love-centered cultures of Europe will not disappoint.

• Paris, France
• Rome, Italy
• Lake Como, Italy
• Bruges, Belgium
• Avignon, France

Enjoy your romantic Valentine’s Day getaway to Europe and make sure to check out the linked travel guides for each of these cities!