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Where to Honeymoon in Europe

Europe is full of romantic places to spend your honeymoon. You find coastlines bordering the Mediterranean that anyone looking for some fun in the sun will appreciate. Wine lovers have plenty of regions to choose from where they will find the best wine in the world. If you have been dreaming of a small town with cozy inns for years, you can find that too.  You don’t even have to settle for one destination in Europe, but can fit in several in one trip. We asked a few experts to weigh in on the best places to honeymoon in Europe and here is where they recommended.

Prague

Honeymoon in Prague

Set in the heart of Europe, Prague sets the scene for one of the most romantic honeymoon destinations in Europe. With its cobbled stone streets, Baroque architecture, its grand imposing castle and charming colored buildings, Prague exude romance and old-warm charm.

Stroll through the cobbled fairytale lanes of the Old Town or cozy up together in a horse-drawn carriage. Pay tribute to Mozart’s Don Giovanni with a visit to the Estate Theatre, walk across Charles Bridge or climb the 299 steps of Petrin Tower for a breathtaking vista over the city of a hundred spires. Romance in Prague is in its abundance and can be found around every corner.

In fact, the city heavily embraces its romance so much that there is even a day dedicated to lovers. On the 1st May, couples in love head up Petrin Hill to kiss underneath the statue of Karel Hynek Macha, one of the Czech Republic’s most romantic poets. A kiss beneath the statue will ensure their love will be eternal. Likewise, it is a known local tradition to kiss under a blossoming cherry tree on the 1st May too. The legend says: “She, who shall be kissed under a blossoming cherry tree, shall remain beautiful and attractive all year long.”

For the ultimate romantic weekend we highly recommend staying at the Golden Well Hotel and dining at the Coda Restaurant in Mala Strana for a rooftop view over the city’s historical center or for the ultimate romantic experience; hire a UNESCO World Heritage Garden for a private dining experience for two!

Samantha & Leonardo Barbagallo – The Wandering Wanderlusters

Paris

Paris Eiffel Tower

Paris is probably the first city in Europe that comes to most people’s mind when they think of romance, and it is an ideal city to consider for a European honeymoon! My husband Laurence and I actually spent part of our honeymoon in Venice, another great choice, but Paris is my favorite romantic city in Europe and we love to return each year. The City of Lights offers beautiful architecture, delicious French food, great shopping, iconic luxury hotels, and world-class museums. It is a city that can easily be explored on foot, making it perfect for romantic leisurely strolls through its charming streets or along the Seine River. Couples can picnic at a park, sip coffee at a sidewalk cafe, enjoy a romantic Seine river cruise, take a cooking or wine tasting class, explore the city’s markets together, go to a French cabaret show, and appreciate art at some of the best museums in Europe. Paris has a bit of everything and is an easy city to fall in love with, and is best appreciated alongside the one you love most!

Jessica Norah – Independent Travel Cats

Barcelona

Barcelona Beaches

Barcelona might not be Europe‘s city of love but it is certainly a great place to spend your Honeymoon. Barcelona, Spain is a great place to walk hand in hand through the beautiful Gothic Quarters – pondering the past and admiring the great detail that has gone into the architecture. Explore Gaudi’s buildings and enjoy the intricate details making each place a masterpiece. Barcelona offers an endless amount of activities, including history, tours, beaches and day trips out of the city. It is one of those places that “has it all.” Enjoy romantic nights at the beach sipping on red wine and eating Paella, or explore Barcelona and enjoy cocktails at La Bouqeria Market. Everything about Barcelona oozes class and romance making it the perfect place for couples to honeymoon. Enjoy life in the city, stay in top class hotels or move just outside of Barcelona and enjoy a relaxed resort on the shores of Costa Brava.

Natasha Haley – Meldrums On The Move 

Tuscany

Tuscany Landscape

It’s hard to imagine a place more romantic than Tuscany: famous for its wine, beautiful countryside, captivating cities, and delicious cuisine, Tuscany could not be a better pick for a place to spend a honeymoon with your new spouse.

My husband and I recently spent a month in Tuscany, and though it wasn’t technically our honeymoon, it sure felt like a second honeymoon to us!

Choose from any number of places to base yourself–the bustling city of Florence, the quiet charm of a small Tuscan town such as Volterra or Lucca–and then feel free to use that as a jumping off point to visit just about anywhere in the region that you like.

Definitely don’t skip having a classic Tuscan wine tasting, eating a traditional dinner the Italian way (several courses over at least two hours!), and wandering the beautiful towns and cities.

We also personally loved horseback riding through the vineyards, taking a Tuscan cooking class, riding a Vespa together through the Tuscan countryside, and, of course, taking many moonlit walks through the streets of Florence, where we chose to base ourselves during our stay.”

Kate Storm – Our Escape Clause  

Venice

Venice honeymoon

When it comes to honeymoon destinations, Venice offers a plethora of swoon-worthy hotel suites, candlelit restaurants, and hidden alleys to lose yourself with the love of your life. For centuries, love-struck couples have been treated to gondola rides through the canals, before feasting on the incredible chocolates at VizioVirtù in San Polo and finding bouquets of flowers to present each other at the Rialto markets.

I know it almost seems cliche to say that Venice is the most romantic place on earth, but Casanova was on to something when he noted the sensual allure of the city. If you plan carefully you will discover quite an array of quiet, yet stunning laneways to wander with your love, or hidden cafes awaiting you to share a glass of wine.

If you are looking for a little honeymoon luxury for the two of you, the Gritti Palace might be the place for you to stay with its unrivaled view across the Grand Canal and exquisite Acqua di Parma spa. It’s intimate and luxurious. The perfect honeymoon stay.

Leah – Kid Bucket List

Reykjavik

Iceland honeymoon

Reykjavik and all of Iceland for that matter is a great place to honeymoon at. It’s not your traditional sip mojitos on a beach type of honeymoon, but instead one for the active and adventurous. Iceland is a land of Intimate hot springs, beautiful glaciers, majestic wildlife, and striking waterfalls. All of that can be experienced right from a home base in the capital, Reykjavik.

We personally enjoyed a romantic trip to Iceland soaking in the hot springs, Icelandic pools, and going whale watching. After our day was finished we opted for a special night out on the town in Reykjavik with dinner and drinks (an expensive dinner and drinks – Iceland is not cheap!).  There is a thriving bar and restaurant scene and it’s particularly lively on Fridays and Saturdays.

If you’re looking to venture someplace truly different for your honeymoon in Europe then Iceland should be at the top of your list!

Natasha & Cameron – The World Pursuit 

Vienna

trip to Vienna

Vienna, that’s a fairy-tale city with beautiful houses, endless parks and horse carriages that fit to the sound of the classic music that jumps right into your head when walking through the cobblestoned alleys of this Austrian gem. How else could Vienna be the perfect European destination for a romantic honeymoon? Start your day in one of the many traditional coffee houses and spoil yourself with a “Wiener Mélange” and a huge piece of Sachertorte before you get lost in the Naschmarkt, the popular market that combines food with traditional items. End your day by walking through the various streets that are full of dream houses before you end up in the huge park area of Schloss Belvedere.

Feel like more romantic times? Hop on one of the horse carriages and let yourself be taken through the back alleys of Vienna while listening to the sound that the horses make on the ground. You want to get on the water? The Old Danube is a quiet side arm of Donau, lining up colorful weekend cabins, riverside restaurants and a promenade. People love to rent boats and cruise around Gaensehaeufel island. Renting a stylish boat with a canopied sofa feels ultimately comfortable and quite private. Make sure to leave enough time for some romantic dinner and lunch options. Once you have experienced Vienna’s historic center change the frame for something new and go for a hike in Vienna’s green suburban hills. End up at Villa Aurora, Vienna’s most romantic villa and restaurant, which is set on Wilhelminen mountain. This 19th-century mansion in Vienna Woods-style offers fantastic rolled schnitzel and an unparalleled view of Vienna.

Clemens Sehi – Travellers Archive

Positano

Positano

Positano is a popular small town in Italy on the Amalfi Coast and is a perfect romantic destination for couples celebrating their honeymoon. The best time to visit Positano is, of course, during summertime from May to September. It is not hard to understand why Positano is a perfect honeymoon destination for couples; From its beautiful picture-perfect beach to its breathtaking scenery and romantic atmosphere, it’s difficult to describe the beauty of the village.

So what does Positano has to offer? Positano has great Italian restaurants as well as an opportunity to shop at the local shops. Positano also has a wide variety of luxury hotels and suites with great facilities that are perfect for a pampering honeymoon. Some of the most recommended hotels in Positano are Le Sirenuse and Il San Pietro di Positano. You also won’t get bored during the evening as Positano also has night life to offer. If you’re interested in clubbing head to the famous Music On the Rocks or alternatively go for a romantic drink with your significant other at Franco’s bar which has the best view in Positano.

Hadas Aharon – The Fashion Matters

Munich

Munich Honeymoon

Ahh Munich. It is the place that holds a special piece of my heart. We spent an amazing week there on our ‘honeymoon’ Now I say honeymoon but ours was slightly different. We waited two years to go on our trip and we took two kids with us too! Some would say that we were totally mad but we had an amazing time. We wandered the picturesque city everyday finding new and amazing things to do for all of us and we even took a brilliant day trip our to Neuschwanstein Castle…talk about romantic!

Munich has it all. Beautiful parks to sit and enjoy the sun, restaurants and cafes that serve traditional meals or mouth watering modern food, you can visit a castle (Nymphenburg) right in the city or Munich Residenz if a palace is more your style! We loved finding the old Town gates and then sitting right near them for a rest before heading off down another beautiful street.

Accommodation there is also great for everyone. You can stay in a hostel or you can find the most lavish hotel in the city! Munich really is for everyone!

Bec Wyld – Wyld Family Travel

Budapest

Budapest Bridge

It’s more exotic in the East of Europe! While Paris, Amsterdam, Venice are all-time favorites, Budapest is a great romantic city that often gets left out.

It’s got the perfect recipe for a honeymoon! A city with more than 1000 natural spring water sources, couples can relax and feel the stress melting away at famous thermals spas like Gellert or Széchenyi.

For foodies, delicious local dishes like Langos, Paprikash ensure your taste buds are always tingling for more and you never have to think twice about trying something new.

For couples who are more into city sightseeing, the bridges will keep you in awe. Each of them is designed uniquely and is very beautiful. You could admire views of the city by heading off to Gellert Hill or Fisherman’s Bastion, which also provides ample opportunities for pictures with Matthias Church right next to it.

Budapest is made up of Buda and Pest located on either side of the Danube river which by itself is very picturesque. If you’d rather do nothing, just sitting on the banks watching sunsets and then wandering around the city admiring how each of the bridges light up differently is sure to set the mood for a beautiful evening!

Lavina – Continent Hop

Hvar

More than 2500 hours of sunshine, Mediterranean climate, rich cultural heritage, delicious local cuisine and fine wines – no wonder Hvar has earned the tag of one of the 10 most beautiful islands in the world. And despite its reputation as a party town, I found that it offers a lot more.

While you are there, stay in little Green Bay. True to its name, very private, bohemian, this boutique property is perfect for enjoying your honeymoon. The first view of its secluded green bay will wow you. And then there is the sparkling wine on arrival, good food to be had at its restaurant, the relaxed vibe all around on its private beach. You could go for a swim or try kayaking in the crystal clear waters of the bay. And take in a message to relax thereafter.

Make sure you rent a car in Hvar town to explore the island. You could drive through Stari Grad Plain, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and look at old olive tree plantations and lavender fields. Stroll through small towns of Jelsa and Vrboska. Go into Hvar town for a sundowner.

If you are staying at Little Green Bay, you might not be tempted to leave its private beach. But Hvar does have some good beaches around the island – Dubovica, Lucisca, Saint Nedilja and Jerolim being the more famous ones.

For the culturally inclined, a visit to the Fortica is a must. Even if you are uninterested in its history, the views looking down over Hvar and Pakleni islands are stunning. For the more active and adventure enthusiasts, Hvar is also a great cycling destination. Or you could try kayaking or diving in the Adriatic Sea.

Shweta – Zest In A Tote, focused on Luxury and Family Travel. Check out her Two week itinerary for Croatia.

Edinburgh

Edinburgh Honeymoon

Edinburgh is Scotland’s capital city and the perfect place for a memorable honeymoon.  Walking through the medieval Old Town is like stepping into a film set with hidden gardens off the Royal Mile where lovers can escape for a private moment away from the crowds.

Edinburgh Castle dominates the skyline and there aren’t many places more romantic to visit than a castle, although the Royal Yacht Britannia is a close contender.  The ship was used by several members of the Royal Family for their own honeymoons, including Prince Charles and Princess Diana.  Now a popular Edinburgh visitor attraction, anyone can have a sneak peek inside the royal boudoirs.

When it’s time to refuel after exploring the city, there are countless glamorous foodie experiences to enjoy from afternoon tea washed down with champagne, to fine dining in Michelin Star restaurants.  For the ultimate natural aphrodisiac, search out some Scottish oysters in one of the many restaurants specializing in local produce.  If you prefer a less formal dining option, pack a picnic and head to Arthur’s Seat or Calton Hill for views over the city or take a stroll through Princes Street Gardens which separates old and new Edinburgh.

Finish off the evening with a theatre show or snuggle up close on a scary ghost tour, followed by a wee dram of whiskey and live music in a cozy pub.

The award-winning Witchery Hotel and Restaurant on the Royal Mile is the ultimate romantic place to stay in the city.  Its gothic interior and unique bedrooms are perfect for honeymooners and its location is ideal as the castle is practically on the doorstep.

Edinburgh really does have all the ingredients for an extra special honeymoon.

Susanne Arbuckle – Adventures Around Scotland

Lucerne


Lucerne might not be the the first place that comes to mind when thinking about honeymoons, however, Lucerne makes a perfect honeymoon spot.

Located in Switzerland, close to Zurich and Interlaken, it is surrounded by the Alps and offers breathtaking sceneries. For the most romantic feeling, you can stroll along beautiful Chapel Bridge which is illuminated at night. While strolling along the Chapel Bridge and walking along the promenade of Lake Lucerne you´ll have a wonderful view of the alps.

Though Lucerne does not have amazing beaches it has some nice spots where you can relax and swim in the clear water of Lake Lucerne.

If you prefer to be more active in your honeymoon, Lucerne has a lot to offer. For a romantic trip, you can hop on a boat and get to Vitznau where you can either hike up Mount Rigi or just take the cable car. The view from there is amazing – and nothing beats the sunset view from there.

A romantic hotel close to Lake Lucerne (with gorgeous views) is Schweizerhof Lucerne – perfect for lovebirds.

Arzo – Arzo Travels

Algarve

Algarve beach
Although popular with holidaymakers from Northern Europe seeking a week of sun, the Algarve is frequently overlooked as a honeymoon destination. But despite being overlooked, the Algarve has all of the essential ingredients that make it a perfect honeymoon destination.

One of those key ingredients is of course beaches. For most people, the perfect honeymoon involves spending copious amounts of time on the beach relaxing. The Algarve has countless beaches spread across its 150 km coastline and, even in the height of summer, it’s always possible to find beaches that are secluded and tranquil.

Then there’s the seafood. There are few things more romantic in the world than sharing a plate of seafood, and the Algarve has some of the best in the world. Throughout the Algarve, you’ll find countless seafood restaurants, many of them in Instagram-worthy locations overlooking the ocean.

Finally, there are the attractions – or lack thereof. This isn’t London or New York, and so you won’t arrive with a long list of things that you have to see and do in the Algarve. While this might be a negative point on any other trip, it’s perfect for a honeymoon as it forces you to relax and really appreciate your special moment.

James Cave – Portugal List

Baden-Baden

Baden Baden

If you are looking for a quiet, romantic place for a honeymoon, you should consider Baden-Baden, Germany.

Baden-Baden is famous for its bathhouse, Friedrichsbad. This Roman bathhouse, dating back to 1877, was the fanciest bathhouse in Europe at the time and is worth a visit for the sake of the building alone.  It’s great to spend an afternoon with your new husband/wife.  You start in room 1 with a shower and then you walk through a bath ritual in 17 different steps, to ultimately soak in the relaxation room.  Do you prefer to enjoy a super modern spa? No problem.  Next to Friedrichsbad is Caracalla spa with 4000m² of wellness.

After a relaxing day in the spa, you can dress up to visit the casino. In the local Kurhaus, you will find the most beautiful casino in Europe.

There are many beautiful hotels in Baden-Baden.  But for a honeymoon, Brenners Park Hotel & Spa is the best choice. The hotel consists of a number of beautiful, historic buildings. It belongs to the Leading Hotels of the World and many famous guests have stayed here, including Barak Obama. The service is fantastic and no effort is too much.

The breakfast is particularly extensive and the pancakes and omelets are prepared é la minute. They have a few restaurants, one of them has two Michelin stars.

Next to the main building is Villa Stéphanie, accessible via an underground tunnel. Here you will find a swimming pool, gym, hammam, sauna, and spa. You can relax in the garden with a view of the Lichtentaler Allee.

The location of the hotel is great. At the back, you step through a gate right onto the Lichtentaler Allee. A five-minute walk along the river Oosbach (such a romantic place) takes you to the center where you find many shops and good restaurants.

Wendy Maes – World Wide Wendy 

Santorini

Santorini

Of all the locations we visited over our 3-week long honeymoon, Santorini in Greece is our favorite. Everything about this island in the Cyclades screams romance! It’s no wonder couples go to Santorini to get their engagement and wedding pictures taken. Some even host their big day here!

We stayed in a cave hotel with our own private outdoor jacuzzi in Imerovigli. This area is less busy than Fira and Oia, plus you get an unobstructed view of the caldera because of its elevation. We could see Skaros Rock right from our bed!

A honeymoon isn’t complete without breathtaking sunsets. Not only can you catch the world famous sunsets in Oia, you can also enjoy the sun dip into the ocean while wine tasting in Pyrgos. How about a sunset cruise with unlimited drinks and delicious Greek tapas with your loved one? You’ll stop by the Red Beach in Akrotiri and Black Sand

Ivy Ko – Kollecting Koordinates

Ljubljana

Ljubljana the capital city of Slovenia is one of the smallest European capital city and the largest city in Slovenia. The lovely city is bedecked with historical churches, buildings, and fountains. The serene Ljubljanica River flowing through the city is lined with cafes and restaurants with open-air seatings along the riverside which adds to the laidback atmosphere of the city. The Ljubljanica River encloses the old part of the city which is dominated by the historical castle perched on a hill. There are numerous gorgeous bridges spanning the river leading to the old town. These bridges and the riverside cafes lit after dusk with a soft music playing in the background is one of our most favorite part of the city and makes for a perfect romantic evening. The way up to the castle is a short hike up with marvelous panoramic views of the city, we prefer this though you can opt for the quick ride up on a funicular. If you have more than a day in the Ljubljana city go day tripping to gorgeous Bled and Bohinj lakes both of which can be covered in a day or to the coastal resort town of Piran. The charming city has loads to do and explore on a relaxed holiday which aptly makes it a perfect honeymoon destination in Europe.

Rashmi and Chalukya – GOBeyondBounds

Durbuy

beautiful Belgium cottage

If you’re looking for a cute European town for your honeymoon, you’ll need to visit Durbuy if you’re already visiting Brussels.  This adorable city in Belgium claims to be the smallest city in the world although it’s not the case anymore.  However, this city has a beautiful medieval section together with stunning cobblestoned streets, delightful local artisanal products (including beer and chocolate), and even a first class topiary garden (the world’s largest topiary garden).  If you’re a lover of beautiful European architecture and you’re interested in getting just a little off the beaten path after visiting Bruges or Brussels, you’ll fall in love with this non touristy city only two hours south of Brussels. There’s nothing like strolling hand-in-hand with your loved one through this beautiful and romantic city.  At night, you can walk through the calm cobblestone streets after a doing a tasting of delicious Belgian beers.
Karen – Wanderlusting 

Bellagio

Bellagio Italy honeymoon in Europe

Deciding on a destination for a honeymoon can lead couples in all directions throughout the world.  If you are seeking romantic, beautiful and serene, Bellagio, Italy could be a perfect destination.

Bellagio is located north of Milan between the two branches where Lake Como comes together.  To reach Bellagio you begin with a flight into Milan.  From here you have a few options; you can rent a car and drive an hour and half, or you can take a train to Varenna.  From Varenna you can either take a taxi or a ferry ride directly to Bellagio.  A car is not necessary to have in Bellagio, the streets are narrow and parking unless provided by your hotel could be a problem.

Bellagio Coast

The perfect location of Bellagio gives way to stunning lake and mountain views from all directions.  Known as the “Pearl of the Lake” you will soon discover why.  This charming little city transports you back in time with its cobblestone streets and unique and tiny artistic shops.  Walking Bellagio is full of discovery, from gardens and mystery looking pathways.  Enjoy Lake Como by taking a ferry and stopping at all the little towns around this area of the lake.  Each distinctive town has something different to offer.

Bellagio offers several restaurants to have a romantic meal or to pack you up a picnic.  The Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni is a must to visit even if you are not staying at this particular hotel.  Have an unsurpassed romantic dinner and enjoy the lounge before and after your meal with a violin, cello and piano concert.

Take a walk along the lake, bring a bottle of champagne because Bellagio sunsets are extraordinary. Toast to celebrate your future as husband and wife.

Sherrie Fabrizi Allbritten – Travel By A Sherrie Affair

Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik coast

Dubrovnik is stunning medieval town in Croatia. It is well-known for its Old City and its walls. This old town lies along Adriatic coast which gives one of the most scenic spots in Europe. The Old City consists of imposing towers, palaces and impenetrable walls. While the surrounding areas of Old City consists of villages perched in the rugged cliff side of Adriatic sea and the amazing islets of Croatia.

These what make Dubrovnik a good honeymoon destination. It has the romantic feel of old city where you and your spouse can stroll down to memory lane of this historical coastal town or enjoy a romantic cruise in Dalmatian coast. The beaches In Dubrovnik coast and the neighbouring islets are also good alternatives if you just want to get away from the crowd in the Old Town. Croatia is also among the cheapest destinations in Europe which makes splurging to this amazing town almost “guilt-free”. And if these reasons are not enough to go, Croatian food is one of the most diverse and amazing cuisines in the region.

Christine Rogador – The Travelling Pinoys

So many places to choose from! Where did you go? Any place we missed? Let us know in the comments if we should add any other cities!

darek & gosia

Tuesday 13th of November 2018

We would also add Tenerife - we went there for our honeymoon :) but all locations from your list would be great too :)

Thursday 22nd of March 2018

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Karen

Wednesday 13th of December 2017

So many great ideas. Europe is full of beautiful places.and I wish that I had visited more of these! I think Greece is next for me. :)

Lavina

Sunday 10th of December 2017

That's a very comprehensive post! Definitely one to bookmark even for a romantic getaway! Loved all the suggestions ut together!

Jessica @ Independent Travel Cats

Wednesday 6th of December 2017

So many great spots, we are lucky to have visited so many of these, and thanks for including our suggestion! Best, Jessica