Paris, Venice and Rome roll off the tongue when asked to name Europe’s most romantic cities, and for good reason.
But Valentine’s Day and early spring are an ideal time for European city breaks that promise an equally enchanting getaway for two – without the crowds. These are some of our favourite last-minute romantic European getaways in February.
Hundreds of years after Shakespeare immortalised the city in Romeo and Juliet, Verona continues to radiate romance. As a UNESCO World Heritage site with its own stunning amphitheatre, this ancient city in northern Italy is the perfect destination for true romantics. Each February, the Verona in Love festival takes over the city, with decorations, live music, themed dinners and special events transforming venues into a celebration of all things love. And for those couples who enjoy a more active break, the annual Romeo and Juliet Half Marathon (on 16 February this year) attracts thousands of runners who come to enjoy one of Italy’s most beautiful runs. Potter around the cobbled streets soaking up beauty and history, stopping for a glass of two of local wine from the nearby Valpolicella region, including the renowned Amarone. Don’t miss Casa di Giulietta (Juliet’s House) to see the iconic balcony, before climbing the Torre dei Lamberti for panoramic views of the city. Verona’s culinary scene will also do its best to capture your heart, with plenty of osterias serving local fare; the city’s traditional dish, risotto all’Amaron, is a must-try.
Where to Stay
The Vista Palazzo provides a chic retreat; Hotel Due Torri immerses its guests in timeless Italian splendour.
Compact and brimming with charm, Budapest is a great city to enjoy as a duo over a long weekend for several reasons. Taking a brisk walk across the Danube will allow you to take in Budapest’s stunning architecture, including the Hungarian Parliament Building. From there, head up to Buda Castle for panoramic views of the city. For a more indulgent experience, visit its famed thermal baths. Treat yourself to a couple’s spa experience away from the busier crowds at Neo-Baroque Széchenyi Thermal Baths, or visit the beautiful art deco Gellert baths to unwind in the mineral-rich waters. Come evening, the city’s wine bars provide a welcome retreat. Hungarian wine has been growing in popularity in recent years, and whether you’re looking for a quiet corner for two for a civilised wine tasting or a more raucous night out, the city caters for all tastes.
Where to Stay
Budapest’s stand-out hotels include the art nouveau elegance of the Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace, the historic-yet-modern Matild Palace and a new W Hotel.
Seville’s stunning Al-Andalus architecture, plus average 18°C February temperatures, make this an ideal month to explore. If you visit in late February, you’ll experience orange blossom season, when the city is filled with the scent of azahar flowers from its orange trees. Seville is divided into several districts, with Santa Cruz – a charming maze of narrow streets, hidden courtyards, and authentic tapas bars – a favourite with visitors. For a truly local experience, head to El Rinconcillo in Santa Carolina, it’s the city’s oldest bar and has been serving visitors since 1670. Or, for a special date, the thrilling daily shows at Tablao El Arenal – widely regarded as the spiritual home of flamenco – are praised the world over. If your evening plans tend to centre around food, Michelin-starred seafood restaurant, Cañabota, is an open-kitchen experience with a menu that changes daily. For romantic city views, head to the top of Giralda bell tower – and time your visit with sunset, when the golden light transforms the skyline.
Where to Stay
Hotel Alfonso XIII, built nearly a century ago for its royal namesake, combines Andalusian grandeur with a warm and welcoming atmosphere; for a more contemporary stay, Hotel Mercer Sevilla offers a sleek, modern bolt hole in the heart of the city.
Ljubljana is the Slovenian word for loved, which is reason enough to include it on our list of romantic getaways, but there are many more. Though chilly, the winter months are some of the most inviting and promise a winter wonderland for those who enjoy a fairytale vista. Ljubljana is split by the picturesque Ljubljanica River, lined with cafés, but to truly appreciate the city’s charm, head to Ljubljana Castle: its tower provides a stunning 360-degree city view, plus surrounding snow-capped mountains. With fewer visitors at this time of year, it’s also the perfect time to take the short drive to Lake Bled – just under an hour away – or, closer to the city centre Koseze Pond (pictured). Delicious and hearty Eastern European dishes dominate menus with soups, dumplings and Slovenian Bograč (stew), and truffle-laden dishes are also common here – Slovenia’s truffle season is long, ensuring indulgent bites year-round. For fine dining, visit Michelin-starred Restavracija Strelec, housed in the historic Archer’s Tower, and for a cultural evening, the Slovenian Philharmonic is one of the world’s oldest musical institutions (dating back to 1701) and performs year round in the Philharmonic Building.
Where to Stay
AS Boutique Hotel is a cosy hotel with 30 bedrooms, some with views of the castle; InterContinental Ljubljana comes with a spa and rooftop restaurant to enjoy views of the city from; Vander Urbani Resort offers contemporary comfort in the heart of the city.
The birthplace of hygge – the art of getting cosy – Copenhagen knows how to make cooler months feel warm and inviting. Compact and easy to navigate, Copenhagen is ideal for exploring on foot, by bike (like the locals), or via its efficient metro system. Stops on your trip should always include Nyhavn, the iconic waterfront lined with colourful townhouses and lively cafés – once a bustling port frequented by Danish sailors, it’s now the perfect spot to enjoy a Danish beer while soaking up the vibe. For unique panoramic views of Copenhagen’s skyline, head to the city-centre Round Tower. Copenhagen’s culinary scene is world famous; getting a booking at Noma can be a challenge but many of its alumni have opened excellent restaurants across the city. Mexican eatery Sanchez is a great spot for weekend brunch, and Noma spin-offs – backed by its owner René Redzepi – are more easily accessible and affordable: visit Hart Bakery for cheesecake; Popl for burgers; and Barr – situated on the former Noma site – for classic Northern European dishes with a culinary twist. Away from the Noma empire, browse Torvehallerne food market, sampling Danish staples like smørrebrød (open topped sandwiches) and the famous Danish pastries.
Where to Stay
Sanders offers romantic, hygge-inspired interiors that are perfect for a cosy retreat; Villa Copenhagen has an onsite bakery and heated rooftop pool; and the lush, tropical-inspired design at Manon Les Suites has become an Instagram favourite.
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