Junior Rasmussen
Europe is a popular honeymoon destination for good reason. With its diverse range of romantic cities, gorgeous beaches, charming towns, and stunning natural landscapes, it offers something for every type of couple. From the old-world allure of Italy's Amalfi Coast and the shimmering coastlines of Greece, to the ever-romantic Paris and the historic beauty of Venice, Europe has no shortage of idyllic honeymoon spots. Whether you're an art buff, foodie, historian, hiker, or beach bum, here is a roundup of some of the best places to start your wedded life in Europe.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Country | France, Italy, Spain, Greece, Croatia, Portugal, Hungary, Netherlands |
| Region | French Riviera, Tuscany, Balearic Islands, Canary Islands, Algarve, Madeira, Amsterdam, Paris, Venice, Dubrovnik, Santorini, Mykonos, Cavtat, Positano, Amalfi Coast, Lake Como, Rome, Barcelona, Mallorca, Ibiza, Menorca, Formentera |
| Attractions | Beaches, historic sites, museums, art galleries, natural parks, Christmas markets, Michelin-starred restaurants, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, luxury hotels, spas, golf, shopping, cruises, vineyards, gardens, cafes, nightlife |
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Paris, France
For those visiting Paris for the first time, romantic strolls along the Seine, cosy cafes, French accents, wine and cheese, hidden gardens, striking churches, and gorgeous architecture will surely charm you. The Pont des Arts, a pedestrian bridge, once hosted a famous tradition where couples added padlocks to the fencing. Now, you can place your lock on the railings near the beautiful Basilica of the Sacred Heart, a church on a hill with stunning views of the city.
If you're looking for luxurious accommodations, Cheval Blanc Paris offers privacy and views of the Seine or the Louvre. The hotel's Dior Spa provides the perfect way to unwind with a massage for two. Le Bristol Paris, part of the prestigious Oetker Collection, was the first hotel in France to be awarded 'Palace' status, offering a royal experience.
For a truly lavish experience, consider a stay at the Palace of Versailles, where you can immerse yourself in the grandeur and opulence of this historic site. If you're looking for a more intimate setting, the small town of Gordes in the South of France offers charm and relaxation. La Bastide Gordes, a stunning resort nestled on the hillside of Provence, provides a tranquil escape.
When it comes to transportation, Paris has two major airports: Charles de Gaulle (CDG) and Orly. La Compagnie, a business-class-only airline, offers a romantic journey with full-flat seats and complimentary Wi-Fi. French Bee is another excellent option for honeymooners seeking comfortable Premium Economy rates. Once you're in the city, Ubers and the Paris Métro make it easy to get around.
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Venice, Italy
Immerse Yourself in the Romantic Atmosphere
Stroll hand in hand through the winding cobblestone streets, bridges, and historic beauty of Venice. The city's intimate setting, with its colourful Renaissance buildings and charming islands, will create lasting memories. Don't miss the bustling Piazza San Marco, where you can visit St. Mark's Basilica and admire its ornate mosaics.
Indulge in Culinary Delights
Venice is renowned for its gastronomic delights, including exquisite seafood and tempting gelato parlours. Indulge in a candlelit dinner, savouring fresh seafood and local delicacies like bussolai cookies with a glass of Prosecco. The city also offers amazing waterfront restaurants and lively city squares to enjoy local treats.
Explore the Islands and Lagoon
Beyond the main city, venture to the captivating nearby islands in the Venetian Lagoon. Explore Murano, famous for its glass-making, Burano, known for its vibrant, colourful houses, and Torcello, an ancient island with archaeological sites. These islands offer unique experiences, beautiful scenery, and artisan stores selling handcrafted lacework.
Experience the Signature Gondola Rides
No trip to Venice is complete without a romantic gondola ride. Expert gondoliers will guide you through the serene canals, serenading you with romantic Italian melodies. Schedule your trip for early evening to watch the sunset, and bring a bottle of wine and snacks for a picnic on the water.
Discover Art, Culture, and History
Venice is rich in art, culture, and history, with numerous galleries, museums, and architectural marvels to explore. Visit the Peggy Guggenheim Collection or the Uffizi Gallery to discover masterpieces. Don't miss exploring Gothic palaces and the iconic Doge's Palace, a famous Italian landmark.
Attend Enchanting Events
Depending on the time of year, you may be able to attend famous events such as the Venice Carnival or the Venice Film Festival. These events will add a unique and festive touch to your honeymoon experience.
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Greek Islands
Greece is a timeless honeymoon destination, with beautiful beaches, breathtaking scenery, delicious food, hospitable locals, and historical sights. With over 6,000 islands, you'll be spoilt for choice. The most popular islands have their own airports, but most international flights will arrive via Athens, so it's worth spending a few days there to acclimatise and take in the sights before heading to the islands.
If you're looking for the most popular Greek island destinations, then Santorini and Mykonos are ideal. With its romantic sunsets over the caldera in Oia and its famed white buildings and blue tops, Santorini is probably the most popular proposal and honeymoon destination in the Greek islands. It can be expensive and crowded, but it's worth witnessing. Mykonos is also a popular choice, known for its beach parties.
For a more relaxed and affordable option, try Naxos, which has plenty of beaches and great food. Crete is another under-the-radar option, along with Sifnos and Milos, the latter of which offers incredible food, rich culture, and breathtaking beaches. Folegandros is a great choice if you're looking for a more authentic Greek experience, with its remarkable architecture and local charm.
If you're looking for Greece's sunniest corner, head to the Dodecanese islands in the southeast corner of the Aegean Sea. Rhodes and Kos are the most popular, offering lively nightlife, luxury hotels, and groomed sandy beaches. But if you're seeking pure, unspoiled paradise, consider Tilos or Kalymnos, perfect for hikers and naturalists.
Island hopping is part of the allure of a Greek honeymoon, and with so many unique islands to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
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The French Riviera
The region spans from the sea to the mountains, dotted with medieval towns, tiny coastal villages, and major cities like Nice and Monaco. With its pastel-coloured seaside towns, perched medieval villages, and Roman ruins, the French Riviera is a recipe for romance. Whether you're looking for a glitzy resort, a seaside escape, active excursions, or cultural experiences, the French Riviera has something for every couple.
For accommodation, La Ponche, Hôtel Byblos in Saint-Tropez, is a charming boutique hotel that offers a tucked-away village feel while being near the heart of the town's buzzing nightlife. You can book a romantic dinner on their terrace, dining on market- and farm-fresh fare. Another option is the historic Hôtel Belles Rives, which exudes old-world charm and has a storied history involving notable figures like Picasso and Hemingway.
If you're looking for a luxurious stay, the Four Seasons Cap Ferrat and La Reserve Ramatuelle are considered some of the best properties on the French Riviera. The Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat, a Four Seasons Hotel, offers guests private balconies and great views, while also being well-rated for families.
The high season on the French Riviera is from June to August, with the busiest and most expensive times following the Monaco Grand Prix and Cannes Film Festival. During this period, you can enjoy various events, such as the Nice Jazz Festival and the Monte-Carlo Summer Festival, which feature big-name acts. However, if you visit during the fall or winter, you can still participate in festivities like the Monte-Carlo Jazz Festival and the Nice Carnival.
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Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, is a unique European city steeped in 17th-century history, with a modern twist. The city is defined by its relationship with water, featuring an intricate canal system lined by trees and colourful merchant houses with gabled facades. The capital city is fun as a post-nuptials getaway by itself or as part of a longer Netherlands honeymoon.
Amsterdam has plenty of museums, particularly for the arts, and is a dream for active couples with its endless biking opportunities. Popular attractions include the Red Light District and the Anne Frank Museum. Couples can also cycle around the city, taking in sights such as the Old Church, the Rijksmuseum, and Vondelpark. For a cosy evening, the city has numerous wine bars and brown cafes, as well as infamous coffee shops. For a taste of local cuisine, stop by a sidewalk cafe for bitterballen (round croquettes) and a glass of wine, or try the warm poffertjes (small, puffed pancakes).
For a day trip, head to the village of Ouderkerk, just a 20-minute cab ride from the city, where you'll find flat, emerald green fields, windmills, and Michelin-starred restaurants. You can also take a 30-minute drive to Keukenhof when the tulips are in bloom in April and May. If you're looking for a beach, head to Pllek, an urban hangout spot built out of shipping containers, or Kaagman & Kortekaas, a cosy restaurant with tables arranged around a central open kitchen.
If you're looking for a more relaxed and natural experience, the Waddeneilanden are a great option, with Terschelling and Vlieland being popular choices. De Hoge Veluwe is also a beautiful forest and nature area with plenty of small villages to explore, and Arnhem, a city located within it, has an amazing open-air museum and a zoo. For a mix of hills and unique architecture, check out Maastricht and the rest of Zuid Limburg.
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Frequently asked questions
If you're looking for a beachy honeymoon, head to the Algarve in Portugal, or the Greek Islands, particularly Santorini and Mykonos. The Canary Islands are also a good option, with crystal-clear beaches and luxurious stays.
Europe has many romantic cities, including Paris, Venice, Rome, Barcelona, and Amsterdam.
Mallorca is one of the best honeymoon destinations in Europe for nature, with a very good climate and preserved nature. Madeira, a subtropical archipelago formed by four islands, is also a good option, with wine, high cliffs, and pebble beaches.
Tuscany is a popular European honeymoon destination, with art, food, and history colliding in Florence, Pisa, Siena, Lucca, and San Gimignano.
