7 European Romantic Getaways

Popping champagne on a moonlit Parisian terrace or a serene gondola ride through grand Venetian canals are, for many, stellar examples of romantic getaways in Europe. Fizzy wine not your cup of tea, and does the idea of parting with a wad of Euros for what is, logically speaking, a ride on an old boat bring tears to you eyes? Not to fear love isn’t dead, it’s just modern. Below we have compiled a list of destinations to cater for varied couples looking for a romantic getaway in Europe. 

Adventurers – Lofoten, Norway

If a sunset is considered the starting point for romantic backdrops then a deep indigo sky lashed with the ethereal glow of the Northern Lights must be the epitome. This alluring phenomenon can be visible from October all the way to March. These curtains of glimmering lights occur when charged particles from the sun collide with atoms in Earth’s atmosphere, they cause electrons in the atoms to move to a higher-energy state. When the electrons drop back to a lower energy state, this Nordic marvel fills the sky. The more north you venture the more likely you are to witness these vivid colours unfurling from the heavens, this makes the islands of Lofoten a hotspot, but why not meander through the mighty Norwegian fjords via cruise ship to kill two giants of natural beauty with one stone?

Bohemian Romantics – Lisbon, Portugal 

Lisbon is grand colonial architecture peppered with gothic grit, quaint cafes dotting cobbled streets and impeccable yet affordable cuisine. This charming hub of Portugal stradling the coast of the vast Atlantic is teeming with museums and art galleries making it a must visit for culture vultures. The captivating history of this once European powerhouse is matched by its thriving art scene and world class exhibitions. Hangar, Underdogs Gallery Museu Coleção Berardo are just a few options to get the grey matter whirring as well as the heart beating on a romantic getaway. 

History Lovers – Rome, Italy 

With streets once trodden by the Romans and tales of the ancients carved into its marble walls, Rome is a living breathing museum. Wrap yourself in over 2,000 years of Roman history with visits to the Pantheon, Roman Forum, Piazza Navona, and of course, the emblematic Colosseum for a truly ancient twist on your own love story. 

Sporty Couples – The Swiss Alps 

Gazing out at snowy mountainscapes while warming one’s cockles by a cosy cabin fire is the embodiment of winter romance. This fitting end to a thrill-packed day on the slopes spent skiing, snowboarding or mountain climbing is an ideal escape for couples looking to inject a shot of adrenaline into their romantic getaway. The formidable backdrop of the dagger-like Matterhorn piercing the heavens from the awfully quaint town of Zermatt further en this as a superb wintertide retreat.

Operation relax – Budapest

Known as the spa of Europe, the capital of Hungary is perfectly crafted for anyone seeking refuge from their daily toils. Plunge into anyone of the many indulgent spas in this charming capital city. Géllert is arguably the most emblematic of its natural bathing hangouts. Equipped with chess tables and astonishing decor, locals come here to relax and let the natural waters work their wonders. Staff at the Gellért Thermal Baths claim to have many guests visiting regularly with a doctor’s note to treat a medical condition.The mineral rich baths provide relief for a range of degenerative diseases of the joints, circulatory problems, post-traumatic treatments and respiratory issues. The warm waters come from a source situated 1,000 metres below the city. Warm the joints and your hearts with a romantic getaway to Budapest. 

Foody couples – Huelva 

Declared as the Spanish Capital of Gastronomy in 2017, the foody reputation of Huelva has skyrocketed amongst lovers of quality local produce and Mediterranean cuisine. Sewn to the side of Portugal, this Andalusian delight boasts an eclectic mix of classic and avant-garde cooking, such as the Michelin-starred Ancanthum. Thanks to its title an array of food fairs and culinary events take place here throughout the year. They say a key to man’s heart is through his stomach, so its exquisite local delicacies of jamón ibérico (Spanish cured ham), coquinas de Huelva al ajillo (mini garlic clams) and other incredible seafood might get those wedding bells ringing. 

Dreamer duos – Lake Bled

With its gothic church rising from an islet surrounded by glittering waters streaked with hues of blue and green and set to a backdrop of the snowy peaked Julian Alps, Lake Bled is an alive and kicking fairytale. Gently cruise to The Church of Mary the Queen via boat to its famous bell that bestows wishes upon the ringer. Start your own fable of romance in the land of the lakes.

Whichever option tickles your heartstrings, here at Exoticca we’ve got you covered. Take a glance at our European trips to make your next romantic getaway unforgettable.