From the Mediterranean seaside to the most beautiful cities in Europe, here are some suggestions for that romantic getaway.
What better gift than a lovers’ mini-break for Valentine’s Day 2023? Of course, there’s the unmissable Venice, which always enchants couples looking for a sumptuous backdrop, but the beautiful Verona doesn’t lag too far behind in the race to seduce. More original options are Toulouse, known as the pink city, and even Santorini, in the Cyclades. If you want to dazzle your better half, Prague and Vienna are ideal destinations. And finally, if you are fed up with the winter cold, why not the gorgeous French Riviera at Nice?
Venice, the Most Serene
Even in 2023, how could we not mention Venice, the most romantic city in the world? As soon as you step onto a vaporetto you will be wrapped up in its charm as you sail down the Grand Canal, with stunning palaces lining the water’s edge. Some of them have been turned into romantic hotels with gorgeous rooms. You can find cosy small cafés and restaurants everywhere. Moreover, Valentine’s Day falls in the middle of the famous Venice carnival, which will be held from 4 to 21 February. If you can, treat yourself to a gondola ride to the Bridge of Sighs. Otherwise, lose yourself its streets and lanes to discover the authentic charm of the city of the doges.
Verona, where lovers meet
Made famous by William Shakespeare’s tragedy, Romeo and Juliet, Verona is as romantic as it gets. You will see Juliet’s famous balcony in a little courtyard, which can be reached from Via Cappello. Less than an hour from Venice, it’s an original alternative to enjoy Italy’s charms without the crowds. It is also home to the most important Roman remains in Northern Italy: its amphitheatre is as stunning as the Roman Colosseum, but it is still used as a stage for live shows! Finally, you should take a lovers’ selfie on the old stone bridge at sunset. Veneto is also the region where prosecco, considered the best sparkling wine in Italy, is produced. Have a bottle taken to your room on Valentine’s night.
Toulouse, the pink city
Oh, Toulouse! Its magnificent Place du Capitole and its pretty cafés huddled under the arcades. A city that smells of violets and of the Southern way of life. It is known as the pink city, because almost all its buildings are made of brick, which has a certain charm: particularly at dusk, when it catches fire in the setting sun. To seduce your beloved on Valentine’s Day, treat them to a ride on a barge from the Garonne to Canal du Midi. Toulouse is a young, dynamic city, were you can enjoy a captivating night life. Will the French capital of aeronautics take you to the seventh heaven?
Santorini, a myth on the horizon
Known all over the world for its breath-taking views, Santorini seduces its visitors with its spectacular volcano crater filled with the waters of the Aegean Sea. This island in the Cyclades is still shrouded in the myth of Atlantis, even though the legend has never been confirmed. You will enjoy unbelievable sunsets from its spotlessly white villages, perched atop the island cliffs, as the flaming sun plunges into the caldera. Discovering the island in the winter is not a crazy idea, as you will easily find a wonderful suite with a jacuzzi. You will also be able enjoy the incomparable views with more privacy.
Prague, a legendary city
Unbelievably well-preserved for centuries, the Czech capital is one of the most beautiful and romantic cities in Europe. Make sure you arrive on time at your Valentine’s Day rendezvous under the astronomical watch tower. Then go strolling hand in hand through the medieval quarter and the famous Charles Bridge, to reach Vltava on the other side. Go to the Castle to admire the cathedral and the treasures from the royal palaces. Don’t forget to climb to the top of Petřín Tower, which is like a smaller Eiffel Tower and offers a splendid view of Prague. Finally, bring your Valentine’s Day to an end with a concert and dinner under the gilded façade of the splendid City Hall.
Vienna’s princely charm
There’s nothing like an imperial capital to charm your partner. Their eyes will light up under the gilded façades of its Baroque palaces, which saw so many crowned heads and renowned composers go by. Vienna is still passionate about music and refined living. Bring out the big guns and buy tickets to a concert or the opera – prices are affordable if you book in advance. To properly admire the Austrian capital, take a ride on the Prater Ferris Wheel, before enjoying a delicious Viennese coffee together.
Nice’s winter sun
The French Riviera is known for its Mediterranean climate, which is particularly mild in the winter. There is a reason why all European crowned heads came to stay here in the winter during the Belle Époque. You will find splendid hotels along the Promenade des Anglais, including the famous Negresco Hotel. Painters have also admired the city’s pastel colours and its incomparable laid-back lifestyle. You will have everything you need to treat your body and mind during your Valentine’s Day weekend in Nice.
There are several ways to prove your love: but taking your beloved away for a Valentine’s Day weekend or trip is one of the best. We hope that this small selection of European romantic destinations will help you to plan your next 2023 break.
