It's almost that day of the year again! The day when a fragrant card might just fall on the doormat. Or maybe an anonymous e-Card winks in your mailbox. February 14 – better known as Valentine's Day – is the day when you can secretly let someone know that you like them, or even more than like them. Valentine's Day is also the perfect day to surprise your boyfriend or girlfriend with an amazing trip to an überromantic city somewhere close by in Europe. To make the choice as easy as possible, we have selected the five most romantic cities in Europe for you!
Also read: World wise: The safest and most dangerous countries in Europe
1. Paris, France
There is only one City of Love and that is without a doubt the capital of France: Paris! No other city has been praised as much in movies and series for years as the most romantic city in the world. La Ville de l'Amour, that is the only correct name. And how could it be otherwise in a city with so many atmospheric and cozy streets? Walk along the moonlit Seine in the evening and you immediately know, this is the Valentine's city. During the day you can shop together in the galleries, have a delicious lunch in French and then lose yourself in a maze of pleasant alleys and cozy shops. At the end of the afternoon you will make a journey to the top of the mighty Eiffel Tower where you will scan the sky together for the first glittering stars. Later in the evening, treat your loved one to an unparalleled dinner to end the night at the city's love nightclub: Moulin Rouge. Paris makes your heart beat faster because Paris feels the romance in her pores.
2. Florence, Italy
You will find pure romance in this overwhelming Italian city, located in the equally romantic Tuscany. Florence has an ancient history of intrigue, love and bravado. You see and feel passion in the art and architecture that is present on every street corner. Imagine, entwined, eating an Italian ice cream, walking along the Ponte Vecchio… it doesn't get much more romantic! Florence is the Renaissance city of the world where you breathlessly stroll through intimate streets and past historic buildings. The food is of course top notch, but how could it be otherwise in a culinary city like Florence. Book a weekend in Florence and experience heavenly days together in the most beautiful region of Italy.
3. Dublin, Ireland
You may think you have read it wrong, but no… Dublin it is! This Irish capital is not the rainy and gloomy city as you might think. Dublin is up-and-coming, with a very pleasant and friendly atmosphere that you feel in every alley. Beautiful old buildings and majestic cathedrals welcome you and your partner. And let's be honest, what could be more romantic than a delicious pint of Guinness! Wander around Dublin Zoo together, feast your eyes on Dublin Castle and eat fish & chips together in the local pub. Let's celebrate Valentine's Day the Irish way!
4. San Sebastian, Spain
No, not Madrid or Barcelona. Not even Seville or Valencia. As far as we are concerned, the Basque city of San Sebastián is the ideal city for an ideal Valentine's weekend. This seaside resort with a shell-shaped bay has everything you need for a romantic weekend. The tapas here are unbeatable! A tapas tour along the bustling bars is therefore a must. The food in this city is without exception top notch. Whether you want a delicious, loving dinner in a star restaurant like Arzak or in a homely restaurant in the old part of the city, Parte Vieja, you will not be disappointed. At the end of the afternoon you walk hand in hand along the sunny boulevard and enjoy the sunset on the dancing waves in the bay. Don't forget to take in the distinctive architecture of San Sebastián, it is these buildings and robust buildings that make the city what it is. End the weekend with a tasteful glass of wine on one of the classic squares. Valentine's Day in Spanish isn't that crazy after all!
5. Venice, Italy
We cannot, of course, round out the top five without mentioning Venice. The city of Marco Polo with its many canals and authentic gondolas exudes romance. The decor in this Italian city is magical. Wander the narrow streets in search of loving souvenirs and enjoy lunch in one of the many characteristic restaurants. Sailing around in a gondola is of course an essential part of a visit to this water city. The palaces and old churches also make you realize that you are in a city of love with allure. The typical Italian atmosphere is noticeable on every street corner. And believe me, once back after a weekend in Venice, love will blossom like never before!
