travel

5 of the most romantic places to visit in Europe

Paris
Written by Nigel Simpkins

I find it nice to make a break for it with the hubby sometimes. Just every now and then, of course. It’s not always easy (or practical!) to leave the little ones with the family. But who doesn’t like the chance to take some time out? When it’s just me and the hubby, it’s nice to have that special time away together – and there are plenty of romantic places to visit just a short flight away in Europe.

If a chance is there for you and your significant other to book your web duo tickets for the airport train and head off on a romantic weekend, here are 5 of my favourite places:

Paris, France

I can’t start with anything but the original City of Love for a romantic getaway, can I? It’s simple to get to in the first place, but – once you’re there – you might just even fall in love all over again. The sights, sounds, culture, cuisine… I mean, the list goes on. Take a stroll down the Seine hand-in-hand or climb the Eiffel Tower – in Paris, the romance flows effortlessly.

Santorini, Greece

Greece has many islands to choose from, but I don’t think any quite match up to Santorini. By day, explore the streets lined with white-washed houses and churches topped with striking blue domes that blend into the surrounding seascape. Of course, what better way to finish off the day than by sipping some fine wine on a terrace as the sun goes down over the Aegean Sea.

Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany

Germany does fairytale castles like no other and Neuschwanstein is the one. It’s the real-life castle that inspired Sleeping Beauty and looks like it belongs on the pages of a book. With its towers and turrets, Neuschwanstein glistens in the summer sun. But, if you ask me, a winter trip when snow is falling makes for a romantic break that will live long in the memory.

Iceland

I’ve always wanted to see the Northern Lights. I also bet the experience is incredible when you see the dancing colours cross the sky with your partner at your side. Iceland is one of the best bets for catching this unique event in full flow. Sure, you’ll need to wrap up warm. But watching skies come alive with colour and then heading inside for a winter warmer? What could be more romantic?

Bruges, Belgium

I don’t know if Bruges counts as a hidden treasure, but you might not see it on too many lists of the most romantic places to visit in Europe. I don’t know why, though. From the serenity of its canals to the charm of medieval squares and cobbled streets – Bruges has a lifetime of stories to share. You’ll feel the romance even more in autumn and winter – not least when the Christmas Market opens!