7 of the Most Romantic European Destinations for Couples

Last updated on November 21st, 2022 at 03:50 pm

Well, it’s February now! How crazy is it that Valentine’s Day is just around the corner? In honor of the the upcoming celebration, I decided that it would be a lot of fun to write a post highlighting what I have discovered to be some the most romantic European destinations. Whether you’re looking for small-town escapes, ocean views, historical places, hiking, delicious foods, etc. you will find something for your getaway in this post. So keep reading!

***Disclaimer: Please check the restrictions and entry requirements for your chosen destination before booking any part of your journey!

1. Hallstatt, Austria

Why You Should Visit Hallstatt, Austria

Hallstatt is a tiny village, perfectly tucked away in the Salzkammergut region of Austria. Historically, it was known for its salt production. Nowadays, it is know as one of the most beautiful villages in Austrian (and Europe). Hallstatt is also a renown UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its historical importance, beauty, and uniqueness. During your visit here, you have the opportunity to tour the oldest salt mine in the world and check out the incredible views from the skywalk viewing platform in addition to many other diversions.

Top Three Romantic Things To Do in Hallstatt

Walk around the town and visit the little shops. There are quite a few local artisan shops here. Don’t forget to check out the health and wellness items made with the local salt.

Get out on the water by renting a row boat or swan shaped paddle boat. This is especially nice if you are visiting during the summer.

Go on a romantic Hike to Waldbachstrub Waterfall. This beautiful hike is only about an hour round trip.

For more information to plan your trip as well as things to do in Hallstatt, check out my post: Visit Hallstatt: A UNESCO World Heritage Gem in Austria

2. Bruges, Belgium

Why You Should Visit Bruges, Belgium

If you like beer, waffles, and chocolate, Belgium is the place for you. If you like adorable towns with cute gingerbread-looking houses and boat rides along winding canals in addition to delicious food and beverages, Bruges is the place for you. I hope that once you experience the fairytale-like qualities of this charming town, you will indeed agree that it is indeed one of the most romantic European destinations.

Top 3 Things To Do in Bruges

Visit De Halve Maan Brewery. Learn all about one of the oldest brewing companies in Bruges. Going on the tour will also take you up to the top of their tower, one of the best views overlooking Bruges (see photo above on the left).

Take a canal ride at sunset. Of course you can take a canal ride at any time throughout the day, but sunset seems more romantic to me. 🙂 On your tour, your guide will share fun facts about the area and buildings you can admire.

Go on a food tour to experience chocolate, beer, and waffles. And don’t forget to stop in at The Old Chocolate House for some delicious Belgian hot chocolate!

3. Lake Bled, Slovenia

Why You Should Visit Lake Bled, Slovenia

This is one of my absolute favorite romantic European destinations. It is just so beautiful and I wish more people knew about it! Lake Bled is located in the Julian Alps region of Slovenia. Here you can discover all kinds of lake activities such as swimming, SUP, renting row boats, or taking a traditional Pletna out to the island in the middle of the lake.
Lake Bled is also the birthplace of nature healing, which was introduced by Arnold Rikli. Even to this day, the tradition continues and you can experience the waters of the area’s thermal springs. To learn more, you can visit this website.

Top Three Things To Do in Lake Bled

Romantic walk around Lake Bled at sunset. There’s a great walking trail around the lake with fantastic vantage points for taking pictures of the dreamy surroundings.

Hike through Vintgar Gorge. Here you will walk along wooden boardwalks, enjoying the beauty of nature and admiring the gorgeous ice blue water running through the middle of the gorge.

Take a traditional Pletna Boat ride out to the island. Once on the island you can participate in one of the famous legends of the area. It states that if you climb the 99 stairs and ring the wishing bell three times, your wish will come true.

For more things to do in Lake Bled, check out this post: Top Five Fantastic Things to Experience in Lake Bled, Slovenia

4. Rovinj, Croatia

Why You Should Visit Rovinj, Croatia

Rovinj is a Croatian village right along the Adriatic coast. Once controlled by the Venetian counsels, it shares many similarities to Venice in the town’s architectural style and layout. Here, narrow passageways will lead you to stunning viewpoints of the rugged coastline. It makes the list for top romantic European destinations because of its colorful buildings, stunning water, beautiful sunsets, and mouth-watering seafood.

Top Three Things To Do in Rovinj

Take a dip in the perfectly teal-blue water. You can’t deny that the crystal-clear water looks wonderfully inviting. And, on a hot summer’s day, it’s the perfect way to cool off.

View from the Cathedral St. Eufemia Tower. For a small fee, you can make your way up the stairs to to the top of the tower (warning: it does get a little rickety in some spots). Here, you can enjoy the refreshing breeze as you admire the best views looking over Rovinj and the Adriatic Sea.

Eat the delicious and fresh Seafood. If you’re looking for fresh, delicious seafood, this sweet coastal town is where it’s at. We particularly loved our salmon and tuna burgers at the Tunaholic Fish Bar!

For more things to do in Rovinj, check out this post: Best 5 Things to do in Romantic Rovinj, Croatia

5. Colmar, France

Why You Should Visit Colmar, France

Colmar is said to have inspired Belle’s village in Walt Disney’s animated picture “Beauty and the Beast”. After a visit here, it will not be difficult at all to see why that might be. Additionally, one of the top attractions in Colmar is “Little Venice” and the canals that run through the village. So, in essence, you have a town which embodies the magic of Disney in real life plus the romance of Venice. Honestly, I’m not sure that it gets much more romantic than this!

Top Three Things To Do in Colmar

Visit Little Venice. A romantic canal boat ride will offer a unique perspective as your guide tells you fun historical facts about this beautiful village as you drift along the water.

Indulge on delectable, local baked goods. We particularly liked the traditional lemon cookies from Maison Alsacienne de Biscuiterie. They have multiple locations throughout Colmar.

Get Lost Wandering Around the Town. Colmar is a wonderful town to “get lost in”. There are so many colorful medieval buildings to admire. You can easily spend hours wandering the narrow passageways, popping in and out of the little shops and boutiques.

6. Spiez, Switzerland

Why You Should Visit This Romantic European Destination

If you like small towns, old medieval castles, wine, walks along a lake, and hiking, this is the ultimate romantic destination for you. This adorable village is located along the Thunersee in stunning Switzerland. It is rather off the beaten track and feels far removed from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Thus, Spiez is an ideal spot for any couple looking for a quiet, romantic getaway.

Top Three Things For Couples To Do in Spiez

Visit Spiez Castle. Learn about the history of the area and enjoy the beautiful views of Lake Thun from the castle tower.

Discover wine grown and produced in the region. Explore the Spiez Vineyard Sensory Adventure Trail and stop in at the Spiezer Alpine Weinkultur.

Take the Niesenbahn funicular train up the Niesen mountain. Bring a picnic lunch for a romantic afternoon in the sun.

For more information about things to do in Spiez, check out this post: 5 Things to do in the Romantic Village of Spiez, Switzerland

7. Heidelberg, Germany

Heidelberg Old City with Heidelberg Castle in Background

Why You Should Visit This Romantic European Destination

Heidelberg is considered by many to be one of the most romantic destinations in Germany. It’s for good reason too. Its Renaissance-style castle, historical gothic buildings throughout the city, and location along the Neckar River make for a fantastic combination.

Top Three Things To Do in Heidelberg

Visit Heidelberg Castle. Don’t forget to pop into their Apothecary Museum and see the world’s largest wine barrel!

Explore the shops and restaurants in the Old Town. There are many beautiful buildings to admire throughout Heidelberg and local shops to enjoy. As silly as this may seem, one of my favorites is this gummy bear shop, where you can try a large variety of gummy bear flavors. (Fun Fact: Did you know that gummy bears originated in Germany?!)

Walk Along the Philospher’s Way. This historical path offers the best vantage points to get pictures looking back at Heidelberg Castle.

In Conclusion

I hope that you have enjoyed reading about these fabulously romantic European destinations! I would love to hear about some of your personal favorite romantic destinations in the comments below!

Happy Travels,
<3 Christine