Can you keep a secret? We’ve got a mega crush on Europe.
Who couldn’t love something so well-rounded in culture and history, so well-versed in fine culinary arts, and so jaw-droppingly attractive that all it takes is a moment to get eternally lost in its stunning beauty?
There’s never a wrong reason to let your heart fall in love with the most romantic destinations in Europe, but like in Rostand's famous romance we’re happy to be the Cyrano to Christian if you’re desperate for a matchmaker.
Here’s a peek inside our little black book of romantic getaways in Europe.
Image Credit: Getty Images, Katarina Sergeevna. Image Location: Lake Bled, Slovenia
Most romantic destinations for Valentine’s Day
While other couples follow Cupid to France, you’ll impress your valentine with a bouquet of love only Bucharest can offer. Along with the best French pastries this side of the Rhine – including chocolate eclairs to die for – the compact Old Town makes for romantic moonlit strolls.
Fairy tales destinations are far from fictional in Europe, though a love story on Lake Bled is one that few Americans have read. Bookmark a visit to this Slovenian hideaway and leave with a memory you’ll only want to share with your diary.
Image Credit: Getty Images, Alexander Spatari. Image Location: Budapest, Hungary
Most romantic cities in summer
Lisbon is the city that you’ll unashamedly cheat on other European capitals with. Let romantic fado music bring you and your beau closer together, only to leave your lover’s lips for the sweet taste of a late-night pastel de nata.
If you didn’t know, a ruin pub in Budapest is low-key one of the most romantic places in Europe for a longtime love or a summer fling. Steamy soaks in the thermal baths, sharing a langos on the giant ferris wheel, and watching the sunset from Castle Hill will seal the deal for a hot Hungarian getaway.
Image Credit: Getty Images. Image Location: Charles Bridge, Prague, Czechia
Most romantic places for a honeymoon or anniversary
Nothing says I love you like a long dinner with plenty of wine and a late night gondola ride through quiet canals. Venice is one of the most romantic places in Europe for good reason. Profess your love on the Rialto Bridge, no matter if you’ve only held hands for a few months or if you’ve held each other’s hearts for as long as you can remember.
When it comes to the best European vacations for couples, Prague always lingers at the top of the list. For every city spire, there’s a seductive reason to visit this Czech city with your partner. Budget-friendly yet filled with priceless charm, Prague is a perfect place to walk hand-in-hand beneath the 600-year-old astronomical clock, making every second of your sojourn feel like a moment frozen in time.
Image credit: Getty Images, Pavel Khiliuta. Image Location: Lauterbrunnen Valley, Switzerland
Best babymoon destinations
We didn’t forget about you, mom. When the bun’s in the oven, you need a relaxed and accommodating getaway with all of the perks and none of the problems.
Let Switzerland show you that you can still have the European journey of a lifetime without waddling far from the train stations. The country’s extensive rail line will send you straight to endless fondue spots with stunning vistas. Alternatively, you can sun your belly on the beaches of Sicily, getting your fill of fine Sicilian food without so much as a shuffle from the shoreline.
Looking for tickets?
Ready to take the plunge and get wrapped up in a whirlwind affair only Europe’s most romantic cities can provide? The Trainline app can help you script a love story so profound that even Shakespeare’s star-crossed lovers would swoon with jealousy.
Casually browse train routes and prices before selecting “the one”. See live updates and get assistance from our friendly customer service team should your romantic train journey hit a rough patch.
Header Image Credit: Aayush Gupta on Unsplash. Image Location: Lisbon, Portugal