These European cities are perfect for a romantic city break in 2024
Solo trips may be on the rise but romantic city breaks will never go out of fashion and with our pick of magical spots that were made for exploring à deux, you'll love getting to know a new destination while spending quality time together.
Whether strolling hand in hand as you take in charming squares, discovering quiet sides to well-known cities or eating your way around a foodie hotspot, these are the best city breaks for couples in Europe and the UK.
While Venice and Paris are fine places to take in a charming city with your partner, we've brought you some extra special alternatives for romantic break too, including Switzerland's underrated capital and the scenic Norwegian city of Bergen.
Europe is one of the top places to escape for a romantic city break and whatever you like doing once you get there, you'll find plenty of active adventures, lesser-known squares and cobbled streets to discover, as well as out of season experiences.
You may even wish to take a romantic winter city break, with snow-covered cities close to the Swiss Alps and the Northern Lights to spot if you head far north.
Browse our pick of the most wonderful romantic city breaks to experience with the one you love in 2024...
1. Tromsø, Norway
Known as one of the best Northern Lights cities, Tromsø is the epitome of romance for a couple who likes starry skies and dreamy natural sights. This is one romantic city break you'll never forget as you discover northern Europe's most captivating winter destinations.
Be impressed by the enchanting city of Alesund, see the royal city of Trondheim and stand in Europe's northernmost city Honningsvag.
How to visit
From smart hotels and self-catering apartments to rustic camping lodges immersed in nature, Expedia offers exclusive Tromsø hotel deals from as little as £109 per night.
2. Barcelona, Spain
This sun-kissed city is popular for a reason. Its fascinating architecture, sprawling beach and Mediterranean vibes make it one of the best city breaks for couples, where you can stroll hand in hand along the boulevards, watch the sunset by the sea and dine at top restaurants.
Some of the most romantic sites include Park Guell, La Sagrada Familia and the Magic Fountain of Montjuic.
How to visit
If you're the type of couple who likes a city-beach break and a spoiling spot to rest your head after a day's exploring, then we've got just the trip for you. British Airways offers return flights and two nights at the four-star H10 Marina Barcelona hotel that's both close to the sea and a short walk to the city's main sites, with a rooftop pool to relax in as you watch the sun go down.
3. Prague, Czech Republic
Famed for its spire-filled skyline, iconic Castle, grand squares, mish-mash of historic and modern architecture, and of course, all the excellent beer, it's little wonder that Prague is widely considered to be one of the most romantic cities in the world. Couples can be spotted soaking up the magical atmosphere here year-round, strolling along magnificent bridges, holing up in cosy cafés and snacking on sweet trdelnik pastries.
How to visit
Experience Prague at its best by checking in to the upscale and traditional Residence U Malvaze hotel in the city centre with Expedia.
4. Marseille, France
One of France's most overlooked destinations, Marseille is an excellent city to soak up Provencal culture and the laidback lifestyle of the south of France. Thanks to its 300 days of sunshine, it makes for a sun-soaked escape from the UK and enjoys mild temperatures in the colder months, too.
Once you're there, you'll want to sip pastis (the local tipple), browse the colourful stalls of Prado Market, take in the beauty of Le Vieux Port, one of Marseille's most beautiful areas, and marvel at the magnificent Basilique Notre Dame de la Garde.
Where to stay
TUI Holidays offers four-night city breaks for couples from as little as £230 per person, staying in three-star hotels like Citadines Castellane Marseille.
5. Bath, UK
When it comes to romantic city breaks in the UK, beauty spot Bath is hard to beat. You can stroll its quaint streets hand in hand, enjoy a soak in the natural thermal waters of Thermae Bath Spa and browse the independent boutiques before holing up in a cosy hotel.
How to visit
For a stylish stay in the centre of town, look no further than the four-star Lansdown Grove Hotel; with its elegant decor, Georgian fireplace and comfy rooms you won't want to leave. Set in a listed building, it offers all the charm you want for a romantic break.
6. Bologna, Italy
If you've already ticked Rome and Florence off your bucket list or just fancy somewhere different to Italy's overcrowded tourist haunts, Bologna is the ideal alternative. The buzzy capital of the Emilia-Romagna region in northern Italy, it's a medieval university town that's filled with beautiful churches, museums, gardens and sprawling squares to visit.
Most importantly, though, it's known as the gastronomic capital of Italy – which is really saying something! Arrive hungry, so you can sample as many of the local delicacies as possible, from tagliatelle al ragù (the original spag bol) and tortellini in brodo to tigelle stuffed with cured meats and cheeses from the region.
How to visit
Make your trip to Bologna extra special by booking Prima's six-day gastronomic tour that lets you eat your way around the city and nearby foodie hotspot Modena, too. You'll be part of an intimate tour group visiting local Parmesan, Balsamic vinegar and Parma ham producers, as well as enjoying a private cooking lesson, all while staying in stylish hotels in the centre of both cities.
7. Funchal, Madeira
For something more laidback and surrounded by nature, visit the Atlantic island of Madeira where its marvellous capital city Funchal will delight you. This romantic city break destination in Portugal is where you can ride a cable car over the beautiful rooftops and take in the stunning sea views while you're at it. The market is another must-do to take in all the colours and you'll want to check out the lively squares and watch the world go by from the alfresco cafes.
The biggest highlight of Funchal is its gardens. As Madeira affords a subtropical climate, you can expect to see some breathtaking plants and flowers. Head for the Botanical Garden to see its fascinating collection of flora. There are also lovely views over the city from here.
How to visit
Experience the Portuguese island of eternal spring with a spoiling seven-day stint courtesy of British Airways, that includes return flights and accommodation in the vintage-style Do Carmo hotel from £433 per person.
8. Venice, Italy
We know it's one of the world's most famous places for romantic city breaks but there are still ways to see Venice beyond where the crowds go. The islands of Burano and Murano are highlights of the Venetian Lagoon thanks to their bright buildings, lace-making heritage and colourful glass produced there.
Meanwhile, the fishing port of Chioggia makes for an interesting visit away from all the hordes of Venice, where narrow alleys, deserted canals and family-style eateries await.
How to visit
For a dreamy romantic break right in the heart of Venice that's sure to impress, book into the Palazzo Giovinelli, a 16th-century palace that was once home to Mozart's family and boasts panoramic views over the Grand Canal.
9. Seville, Spain
Barcelona is a fine place for a romantic city break in Europe but head further south and you can experience the beauty of Andalusia in sunny Seville. With glorious gardens, royal palaces and passionate flamenco shows, this alternative city is a great way to soak up the Spanish flavours while enjoying the year-round rays.
Then there's the incredible cuisine that takes in slow cooking techniques and the use of an array of spices. What's more, a trip to beautiful Seville can be really affordable too.
How to visit
British Airways offers three-night city breaks from £160 per person. You don't have to compromise on luxury either as BA's romantic city breaks include stays at four-star hotels. BOOK NOW
10. Porto, Portugal
Leave Lisbon to the crowds as you head to picturesque Porto on the delightful River Douro. Iconic bridges, pretty tiles, famous sweet wine and architectural marvels like the Cathedral and the Church of Sao Francisco are just some of the things you'll want to see on a romantic city break here.
You can even get out of the centre and head for the nearby Foz do Douro beaches for a stroll along the sands.
How to visit
British Airways offers three-night city breaks to Porto from £275 per person, including stays at the city's best hotels.
11. Bern, Switzerland
For a romantic winter city break without the crowds, visit Switzerland' s little-known capital Bern, which you can explore on foot thanks to its charmingly compact size. There's plenty of character in Bern's Old Town and an elaborate clock tower to check out. Be sure to stop at one of the traditional bars for a drink and enjoy a winter walk in one of Bern's parks.
And for one of the most romantic places to visit in the city, head for the magnificent Gothic cathedral, which affords spectacular views of the city from the top, with the River Aare, the Alps and Oberland forming a dreamy backdrop.
Where to stay
A stone's throw from the Federal Palace and mere 9-minute walk away from the UNESCO-certified Old Town, NH Bern The Bristol is right in the heart of the action but still feels like a tranquil urban retreat, making it perfect for couples.
12. Amsterdam, Holland
One of the most delightful cities you'll find in all of Europe, Amsterdam offers picturesque canals, bright tulip fields and more museums and parks than you can fit into one trip, which is why it's one of our favourite places to return.
The best time to visit is in spring when Holland's famous tulips are in full bloom. You can see the flowers in the floating flower market and visit nearby Keukenhof, the incredible floral destination that's open for just a few weeks each year.
How to visit
Experience the smarter side of Amsterdam at the Tivoli Doelen hotel, a certified national heritage site on the banks of the Amstel River that dates back to the late 19th century. It's surprisingly affordable given its glamorous ambience and super-central location, too. BOOK NOW
13. Bergen, Norway
This UNESCO-protected city is the gateway to the magnificent Norwegian fjords, giving you the perfect combination of nature, culture and vibrant urban life. It's Norway's second largest city and offers rich maritime history, so you can expect to see small boats lining the harbour and brightly-coloured buildings standing proud along the waterfront.
You'll fall in love with Bergen's cobblestone streets and narrow alleyways that lead to emerald-green parks, medieval cathedrals and stone fortresses - the perfect setting for a romantic city break.
How to visit
Expedia offers return flights and a two-night stay in the elegant and centrally located Grand Hotel Terminus from a very reasonable £229 per person.
14. Vienna, Austria
Europe's 'city of music' was made for lovers, with opera, jazz and the waltz in the air. Set on the Danube River, Vienna is a picturesque city to explore during one of the best city breaks for couples. There's baroque architecture around every corner, beautiful palaces to browse and a delightful old coffee house culture, a staple of the city's social experience.
One of the best ways to experience Vienna on a romantic city break is combining it with a Danube River cruise, where you can visit multiple destinations on a relaxing journey through Europe.
How to visit
The InterContintental Vienna is one of the city's foremost hotels, located opposite Stadtpark and offering prime city views from its top floor.
15. London, UK
This thriving metropolis might not seem like the obvious choice for a romantic city break, but London has a lot more to offer than just shops and skyscrapers. The British capital is extremely beautiful if you know where to go – we'd recommend exploring Hampstead Heath and Richmond Park on sunny days, and taking an evening stroll down the South Bank for the glittering river views.
As for the food and drink scene, you'd be hard pressed to find a city more filled with exciting restaurants, buzzy bars and cutting-edge eateries, so you have plenty of options for a romantic dinner à deux before hitting up the West End to catch a show for the ultimate London date night.
How to visit
If you're a music-loving couple, you won't want to miss the chance to combine your romantic trip to London with an unforgettable evening of enchanting performances courtesy of the legendary André Rieu. You'll have your choice of multiple four-star hotels to hole up in afterwards, and plenty of time to explore the city however you like.
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