Recently updated on January 21st, 2020 at 06:54 pm
While love can certainly be found in any destination, some corners of the world have been inspiring romance for many years. With Valentine’s Day fast approaching, now could be the perfect time to plan a special escape for two, whether it’s the Croatian coastline or the historic canals of Venice that most appeal. We’ve selected some of the most romantic cities around the world to visit in 2016.
Venice
With its network of canals flowing between the city’s enduring landmarks, the timeless appeal of Venice is no real mystery. But delving a little further will reveal that there’s so much more to this city. As the capital of northern Italy’s Veneto region, Venice covers a vast area of 118 small islands, with the famous canals running between them. Within these islands, Venice celebrates its rich culture through masked opera performances, arts exhibits, and world-renowned events like the Venice Film Festival and the Biennale. Ride a gondola along the romantic waterways and settle into an intimate trattoria for a leisurely candlelit dinner.
Travel to Venice on a trip to Italy with Trafalgar, such as the Jewels of Italy itinerary.
Paris
With its world-famous reputation for being the City of Love, every couple should experience romance in the French capital at least once in their lives. After you’ve seen the Eiffel Tower and taken a cruise along the River Seine, spend a little time wandering the atmospheric streets and sipping coffee, or a glass of French wine, in one of the many street-side cafes or bistros. Whether you go for haute cuisine or rustic French fare, when it’s time for dinner, choose a scenic spot on the river, or overlooking the city as it lights up at night.
Visit Paris on a trip to France with Trafalgar, including the Paris Explorer.
Buenos Aires
Widely regarded as one of the world’s most romantic cities, Buenos Aires is dubbed the Paris of South America. And while this is in part due to the profusion of Belle Epoque architecture (which reflects the city’s historic French influence), Buenos Aires still inspires romance in those who pass through. This can partly be attributed to the city’s Tango legacy, with dancers performing in the streets as well as within intimate restaurants and Tango bars. After delving into the charismatic neighbourhoods, catch a live Tango show and sample the city’s famously outstanding food and wine.
Travel to Buenos Aires on a journey through Argentina, such as the Patagonian Grand Adventure with Buenos Aires.
Bagan
Myanmar might not be the most obvious destination for a romantic escape, but upon arriving in Bagan you’ll understand why it’s on our list. This ancient city was once home to over 10,000 Buddhist temples, pagodas and monasteries, and 2,200 still remain to this day. See the sunrise over the pagodas as you drift over in a hot air balloon; spend a day cycling between the ruins, finding shade in the temples’ cool interiors; and watch the sunset over the Irrawaddy River while cruising along the great waterway.
Explore Bagan on a trip with Trafalgar, including the Secrets of Myanmar itinerary.
Verona
Despite being so close to Venice, Verona is known as one of the world’s great romantic cities in its own right. In fact, it was here that the famous Shakespeare play, Romeo and Juliet was set, with the 14th century house that was the fictional setting for Juliet’s balcony. Visitors can see inside the house and set foot on the balcony themselves. Shakespeare is said to have chosen Verona as the play’s setting because of the city’s reputation for romance and drama, stemming from its Roman history. This history is reflected to this day in the striking, ancient architecture, including a Roman Arena where philharmonic and opera performances now take place.
Discover the romance of Verona on the Jewels of Italy itinerary.
Salzburg
With a backdrop of the Eastern Alps, Salzburg’s medieval and baroque spires, towers and domes reflect on the surface of the Salzach River it sits alongside. And as the hometown of Mozart, Salzburg is the undoubtedly the place to discover the work of this Classical composer. Whether you’re more moved by the music or the mountain views that define the Austrian city, Salzburg is sure to inspire romance. Get lost in the historic streets, explore the iconic cliff-top Festung Hohensalzburg fortress, and drink in the surrounding beauty from one of the city’s panoramic viewpoints.
Get to know Salzburg on a journey through Austria, such as the Imperial Highlights trip.
Hvar
The port city of Hvar lies around a picturesque bay on Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast. Within the coastal town, winding stone streets lead to idyllic squares and gothic palaces, with a palm tree-lined promenade to stroll along, too. Step inside the town’s 15th century monastery and explore its Renaissance cathedral before seeing the sunset over the Adriatic Sea, and dining on fresh fish and local wine in one of the intimate restaurants.
Travel to Hvar on the Highlights of Austria, Slovenia and Croatia trip with Trafalgar.
Image credits: Cover photo of Verona © iStock / mmac72. A canal in Venice © iStock / Freeartist. The Eiffel Tower in Paris © iStock / anyaberkut. Music in Buenos Aires © iStock / Casarsa. Hot air balloons over Bagan © iStock / f11photo. Juliet’s balcony in Verona © iStock / alxpin. The Austrian city of Salzburg © iStock / Shaiith. A view over Hvar in Croatia © iStock / alexeys.