Valentine’s Day in Europe is nothing short of magical, with its historic cities, breathtaking landscapes, and intimate experiences designed for romance. If you dream of strolling through the charming streets of Verona, gliding along Bruges’ canals, or admiring the sunset over Dubrovnik, Europe offers countless destinations to celebrate love. From candlelit dinners in ancient castles to scenic boat rides on tranquil lakes, every corner of the continent whispers romance. These European destinations promise unforgettable moments with your special someone, making this Valentine’s Day one for the books. Love is in the air!
Top 10 Places To Celebrate Valentine’s Day In Europe
Discover the most romantic destinations in Europe for Valentine’s Day, from Austria to Venice, offering breathtaking views, charming experiences, and unforgettable moments for couples.
1. Verona, Italy
Verona, the city of love, is renowned as the setting of Shakespeare’s timeless tragedy, Romeo and Juliet. Its cobbled streets, medieval charm, and romantic ambience make it a dream destination for couples. A visit to Juliet’s House, where lovers leave notes on the walls and pose on the famous balcony, is a must. You’ll find charming piazzas like Piazza delle Erbe, lively with cafes and market stalls. In the evening, a candlelit dinner at a cosy osteria, with regional delicacies like risotto all’Amarone and fine local wines, completes the experience.
Location: Northern Italy, between Milan and Venice
Cost / Person: Approximately €100-€150 / ₹9,000 -₹13,500 per day, including accommodation and meals
Must Try: Enjoy a romantic dinner at a local osteria, savouring traditional dishes like risotto all’Amarone paired with regional wines.
2. Bruges, Belgium
Photo: Jean-Christophe BENOIST / Wikimedia Commons
Bruges, often called the “Venice of the North,” is a city straight out of a fairytale. Its scenic canals, medieval architecture, and tranquil streets provide an intimate setting for couples. Start your day with a horse-drawn carriage ride through Market Square, surrounded by colourful gabled buildings. A boat ride along the canals offers an enchanting view of the city’s historic charm. Visit one of Bruges’ renowned chocolatiers to indulge in artisanal Belgian chocolates, a perfect Valentine’s treat.
Location: Northwestern Belgium, near the North Sea coast
Cost / Person: Approximately €120-€170 / ₹10,800 / ₹15,300 per day, including accommodation and meals.
Must Try: Indulge in Belgian chocolates from local chocolatiers and enjoy a canal cruise to appreciate the city’s beauty.
3. Salzburg, Austria
Photo: Jorge Franganillo / Wikimedia Commons
Salzburg, with its baroque beauty and musical heritage, offers an idyllic setting for a romantic escape. This Austrian gem, known as Mozart’s birthplace, is filled with historical and cultural wonders. Couples can explore the enchanting Mirabell Palace and Gardens, where scenes from The Sound of Music were filmed. A walk along the Salzach River, with views of Hohensalzburg Fortress atop the hill, provides a picturesque backdrop. In the evening, a classical concert in the elegant Marble Hall of Mirabell Palace adds a touch of old-world romance.
Location: Western Austria, near the German border
Cost / Person: Approximately €130-€180 / ₹11,700-₹16,200 per day, including accommodation and meals.
Must Try: Attend a Mozart concert in the Marble Hall of Mirabell Palace and savor traditional Austrian pastries at a local café.
4. Porto, Portugal
Photo: Jose A. / Wikimedia Commons
Porto is a city of passion, where romance flourishes along the scenic Douro River. The Ribeira district, with its colourful buildings and lively atmosphere, is perfect for a leisurely stroll. Take a traditional rabelo boat cruise along the river to admire the city’s stunning bridges and historic architecture. Wine lovers can visit a port wine cellar for an intimate tasting session, savouring rich, aged vintages. For dinner, head to a charming riverside restaurant to enjoy Portuguese delicacies like bacalhau (salted cod) while watching the sunset over the city.
Location: Northwestern Portugal, along the Douro River
Cost / Person: Approximately €90-€140 / ₹8,100 -₹12,600 per day, including accommodation and meals.
Must Try: Visit a port wine cellar for a tasting session and enjoy a traditional Portuguese meal in a riverside restaurant.
5. Lucerne, Switzerland
Photo: Simon Koopmann / Wikimedia Commons
Nestled between snow-capped mountains and a pristine lake, Lucerne is one of the most romantic destinations in Switzerland. Its old town is a delightful mix of medieval architecture and charming frescoed buildings. Couples can take a scenic boat ride on Lake Lucerne, soaking in breathtaking alpine views. For a touch of adventure, ride the cogwheel train up Mount Rigi or Mount Pilatus, where panoramic vistas await. As night falls, enjoy a romantic dinner at a lakeside restaurant, followed by a cosy evening indulging in Swiss chocolate fondue.
Location: Central Switzerland, along Lake Lucerne
Cost / Person: Approximately €150-€200 / ₹13,500 -₹18,000 per day, including accommodation and meals.
Must Try: Take a romantic sunset cruise on Lake Lucerne and savor Swiss chocolate fondue at a local café.
6. Ljubljana, Slovenia
Photo: Pedro Szekely / Wikimedia Commons
Ljubljana, Slovenia’s picturesque capital, is an ideal destination for a romantic Valentine’s getaway. Its cobblestone streets, charming bridges, and tranquil riverbanks create an intimate ambience. Couples can wander through the historic old town, marvel at the Dragon Bridge, and explore the lively Central Market. A visit to Ljubljana Castle, perched on a hill, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city. A boat ride along the Ljubljanica River is a must for a serene, scenic experience. As night falls, the city’s vibrant culinary scene comes alive, with cosy riverside restaurants serving Slovenian delicacies.
Location: Central Slovenia, along the Ljubljanica River.
Cost / Person: Approximately €80-€130 / ₹7,200-₹11,700 per day, including accommodation and meals.
Must Try: Dine at a riverside restaurant, sampling Slovenian cuisine paired with local wines, and visit the Central Market for local delicacies.
7. Seville, Spain
Photo: Carlos Delgado / Wikimedia Commons
Seville is a city that breathes passion, making it an ideal spot for a romantic Valentine’s escape. The city’s historic streets are filled with flamenco rhythms, stunning Moorish architecture, and sunlit plazas. Start your day with a visit to the magnificent Alcázar Palace, known for its intricate designs and lush gardens. Take a horse-drawn carriage ride through Maria Luisa Park, where blooming flowers and scenic fountains create a dreamy setting. As evening approaches, enjoy a live flamenco performance in the heart of Triana and savour traditional tapas at a lively local bar, embracing the city’s vibrant culture and flavours.
Location: Southern Spain, along the Guadalquivir River
Cost / Person: Approximately €100-€150 / ₹9,000-₹13,500 per day, including accommodation and meals.
Must Try: Attend a live flamenco show and indulge in traditional tapas at a local bar.
8. Bled, Slovenia
Photo: NoMeEscuches / Wikimedia Commons
Bled is a true fairytale destination, perfect for couples seeking tranquility and natural beauty. The stunning Lake Bled, surrounded by the Julian Alps, offers a breathtakingly romantic atmosphere. Take a traditional pletna boat to Bled Island and ring the famous wishing bell inside the Church of the Assumption for good luck in love. A scenic walk or horse-drawn carriage ride around the lake allows for peaceful moments together. For a perfect end to your day, enjoy the famous Bled cream cake (kremna rezina) at a lakeside cafe, with the picturesque castle towering above, offering a mesmerising view of the sunset.
Location: Northwestern Slovenia, in the Julian Alps.
Cost / Person: Approximately €90-€140 / ₹8,100-₹12,600 per day, including accommodation and meals.
Must Try: Taste the famous Bled cream cake at a lakeside café and visit Bled Castle for panoramic views.
9. Dubrovnik, Croatia
Photo: Edwardwexler / Wikimedia Commons
Dubrovnik, known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” is a dreamlike destination for couples. With its ancient city walls, shimmering blue waters, and baroque-style architecture, it offers an unparalleled romantic setting. Stroll through the Old Town’s limestone-paved streets, hand in hand, and admire the charming squares and historic palaces. For a breathtaking view, take the cable car up to Mount Srđ, where you can watch a stunning sunset over the city and sea. The day wouldn’t be complete without a candlelit dinner at a local konoba, where you can savour fresh Adriatic seafood, paired with exquisite Croatian wines.
Location: Southern Croatia, along the Adriatic Sea
Cost / Person: Approximately €120-€170 / ₹10,800-₹15,300 per day, including accommodation and meals.
Must Try: Take a cable car ride to Mount Srđ for a breathtaking sunset view over the city and sea, and dine at a local konoba to savor fresh Adriatic seafood.
10. Prague, Czech Republic
Photo: Julius_Silver / Pixabay
Prague, the “City of a Hundred Spires,” is an enchanting Valentine’s destination with its Gothic architecture, historic bridges, and cobblestone streets. A romantic walk across the Charles Bridge, adorned with statues and street musicians, offers stunning views of the Vltava River. Explore Prague Castle, the largest ancient castle in the world, and marvel at the intricate beauty of St. Vitus Cathedral. Cosy up in a charming cafe and savour trdelník, a sweet pastry. As night falls, attend a classical music concert in one of Prague’s historic concert halls, embracing the city’s old-world charm and timeless romance.
Location: Central Czech Republic, on the Vltava River.
Cost / Person: Approximately €100-€150 / ₹9,000-₹13,500 per day, including accommodation and meals.
Must Try: Attend a classical music concert in one of the city’s historic venues and indulge in pastries like trdelník from a local bakery.
Europe’s timeless charm makes it the perfect setting for an unforgettable Valentine’s Day. Be it indulging in Swiss chocolate by Lake Lucerne, dancing the night away in Seville, or making a wish at Bled Island, each destination offers its own unique magic. No matter where you go, the memories you create will last a lifetime. So, pack your bags, hold hands, and let Europe’s romance-filled streets, rivers, and castles set the perfect stage for your love story. Make this valentine’s day special for your loved one with TripXL!
Cover Photo: Nazim Coskun / Unsplash