3 Romantic Valentine’s Day Getaways in EU

With Valentine’s Day approaching, it’s time to plan that romantic getaway with your favorite loved one. Although the weather may be chilly, an escape to one of these European spots is the perfect way to celebrate the Hallmark holiday. Plus, cooler temps mean you can snuggle up with your partner by the fireplace or at the spa. Even better, it’s low season, so you may find a solid deal on airfare or hotel. Here are some of the most idyllic spots in Europe to celebrate this Valentine’s Day.

Verona, Italy

While everyone pictures Italian romance as a gondola ride through a quaint Venice canal, we can do you one better. The Northern Italian town of Verona is home to the famous Shakespearean love story “Romeo and Juliet.” You can actually head to the house that inspired the masterpiece. Is there anything more romantic than standing on Juliet’s balcony? If that’s just a bit too cheesy for you, don’t worry. Verona will be prepping for their Carnival celebration, meaning you’ll spot hints of elaborate costumes and sparkling theater masks in hidden corners around the city. Plan to wander hand-in-hand with your honey through the most preserved Roman Amphitheater in the world, the Arena, followed by a glass of Prosecco in a cozy bar like San Nicolo or Symposio.

Bern, Switzerland

One of the most romantic spots in all of Switzerland, the snow-capped picturesque town of Bern was made for lovers. After a chilly day exploring the city’s charming architecture, (deemed an UNESCO World Heritage site), warm up with some wine. Considering only 1% of Swiss wines are exported (and mostly to Germany), it’s the perfect excuse to taste as many varieties as possible at a cellar bar like Marta, or a wine spot like Zsa Zsa. Don’t forget to cross the famous Bern Bridge, and then head to the nearby hills around sunset to snap the snowy rooftops throughout the city. 

Paris, France

This list wouldn’t be complete without one of the most romantic destinations in Europe: Paris, the city of light. Start with a quiet stroll through the Trocadéro gardens, admiring the views of the Eiffel Tower. Then, cross the bridges of the Seine, covered in locks from couples madly in love. If the February temps get a little chilly, peruse the Impressionist art at the Museo D’Orsay, which was once a train station, or sip natural wines paired with French cheese and foie gras at wine bar Le Garde-Robe. If that’s not enough, just listen to the locals babble on in French — according to a Hotels.com survey, people it’s the sexiest language in the world.