Our Top 6 Romantic Holiday Destinations

Paris is undoubtedly one of the most romantic places in the world. Nicknamed the ‘City of Love’, this destination has long enchanted couples with its timeless beauty, rich culture, and passion-infused atmosphere. You’ll find romance at every corner, from the winding cobbled streets of Montmartre to the glittering lights of the Eiffel Tower at night.

Imagine sharing a kiss beneath the Pont des Arts, taking in panoramic views from the top of Sacre-Coeur, or taking an evening stroll hand-in-hand along the Champs-Élysées before enjoying a candlelit meal for two. These are just a few of the unforgettable experiences couples can enjoy here.

Beyond its famous monuments, Paris is also known for its world-class cuisine and cosy cafes. Couples can indulge in a delicious French meal with champagne or spend hours people-watching from a terrace over a bottle of Bordeaux. For those with a love of art and history, exploring the Louvre or Musée d'Orsay adds another layer of depth to the trip.

To make your Paris escape even more magical, consider a Seine River cruise. Cruising gently along the river as you pass by Notre-Dame, the Eiffel Tower, and other iconic landmarks offers a romantic and relaxed way to take in the city. A cruise through France not only brings the country to life, but also adds a touch of luxury and tranquillity to your romantic holiday.

Getting there: Fly from a wide selection of regional airports to Paris Charles de Gaulle airport. Or, if the thought of flying puts you on edge, why not take the Eurostar from London St Pancras Station?

If you're dreaming of a destination that looks like it’s straight out of a storybook, Venice won’t disappoint. This magical floating city, with its serene canals, intricate architecture, and timeless charm, has long been a favourite among lovers.

Couples can lose themselves in the romance of it all by starting their journey with a luxury Venice river cruise or a gondola ride through the city's winding waterways. It’s an experience unlike any other; imagine the lapping of water, the gondolier’s song, and the reflections of buildings in the canals. Walking through Venice is equally enchanting, from exploring St. Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace to watching the world go by at a cafe in Piazza San Marco.

Getting there: With direct regional flights to Venice, getting there is easy. The only difficult thing will be deciding what to pack!

If your idea of romance involves sun-soaked beaches, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque villages, the Greek Islands are the place to be. This archipelago is one of the most sought-after romantic holiday destinations, and it's easy to see why. Each island has its own personality, but all share a laid-back charm and stunning natural beauty that make them ideal for couples.

Imagine walking through the narrow streets of Santorini, with white-washed buildings and blue-domed roofs glowing under the Mediterranean sun. This iconic island is known for its world-famous sunsets - best viewed from Oia - where the sky comes alive with orange and pink hues.

Other Cycladic islands include Mykonos, which offers a more lively scene with its chic beach clubs and vibrant nightlife. Meanwhile, islands like Naxos and Paros offer peaceful retreats with unspoiled beaches and traditional Greek hospitality.

Couples can spend their days exploring ancient ruins, swimming in secluded coves, and enjoying fresh seafood under the stars. Snorkelling together through coral reefs and taking boat trips to hidden bays adds a sense of adventure and discovery to your romantic getaway.

Travelling between islands is easy, making island-hopping an exciting way to see multiple romantic places in one holiday. It's worth considering a cruise to the Greek island, which allows you to explore the best of Greece by sea. With so many choices, it's no surprise that the Greek Islands top the list for romantic holidays and remain among the best places for couples to travel.

Getting there: Many travellers fly into Athens. However, it is possible to fly from the UK to a wide variety of the islands.

Croatia has swiftly risen in popularity as one of the best couple destinations in Europe. It blends history, natural beauty, and modern luxury into a seamless experience ideal for romantic getaways. From the medieval walls of Dubrovnik to the sun-kissed beaches of the Dalmatian Coast, Croatia offers countless opportunities for connection and discovery.

Dubrovnik, often referred to as the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’, sets the scene for romance with its stunning city walls, terracotta rooftops, and views over the sparkling Adriatic Sea. Walking through its ancient streets hand-in-hand, it’s easy to feel like you've stepped onto the set of a romantic period film. The coastal town of Split offers a more relaxed yet equally enchanting vibe, with its Roman ruins, charming harbours, and palm-lined promenades.

Couples who love nature will find plenty to marvel at in Croatia. The national parks, like Plitvice Lakes and Krka, are beautiful with incredible cascading waterfalls and scenic walking trails. The island of Hvar is perfect for those looking to unwind in luxury, boasting lavender fields, exclusive beach clubs, and elegant marinas.

A Croatia cruise is one of the most effortless and luxurious ways to experience the country. These cruises allow couples to explore multiple islands and coastal towns without the stress of planning each leg of the journey. The ever-changing scenery and gourmet onboard dining make it one of the best romantic holidays available today.

Croatia effortlessly combines cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality, placing it firmly among the most romantic holiday destinations and one of the best places to go on holiday as a couple.

Getting there: You can fly directly to major Croatian cities like Dubrovnik and Split from several UK airports, and getting to and from each island is easy with the advanced ferry networks.

The Douro Valley in Portugal is one of Europe’s most picturesque and tranquil regions, perfect for couples seeking a romantic retreat surrounded by nature and culture. This UNESCO World Heritage site is famed for its terraced vineyards, scenic villages, and the meandering Douro River that gives the region its name.

A visit to the Douro is like stepping into a painting. Rolling hills lined with vines stretch as far as the eye can see, and quaint towns offer the chance to experience authentic Portuguese culture and hospitality. Porto, the gateway to the valley, is a vibrant city known for its colourful buildings, historic bridges, and, of course, port wine. Couples can wander through wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia, sample world-renowned vintages, and learn about the centuries-old tradition of winemaking.

Taking a Douro River cruise is one of the best ways to experience the region. As you sail gently through the valley, you can soak in the beauty of the landscape while enjoying luxury accommodation, delectable meals, and curated excursions. From vineyard tours to sunset dinners on deck, a Douro cruise is tailored for romance.

This region is an excellent choice for couples looking to slow down and reconnect. With its emphasis on relaxation, fine food, and stunning scenery, the Douro Valley ranks among the best romantic places in the world.

Getting there: You can fly into Porto from most UK cities, then transfer easily to the Douro Valley via car or train.