sixtyandme logo
We are community supported and may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site. Learn more

10 Most Romantic Cities to go with Your Partner

By Sandra Roussy October 10, 2023 Family

Do you want to reconnect with your partner and create new memories, away from the stresses and distractions of everyday life? How about a leisurely walk through a historic neighborhood or a candlelit dinner at a romantic restaurant? If you’re looking for a way to celebrate the love and connection with your partner, visiting one or more romantic cities can be a perfect choice.

Romantic cities are destinations that offer a sense of romance, intimacy, and connection, making them ideal for couples looking to create lasting memories and strengthen their relationships.

Many romantic cities around the world offer a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty, making them ideal for exploring and experiencing new things together. From the cobblestone streets of Paris to the winding canals of Venice, these cities offer a sense of charm and elegance that can be especially appealing for older couples who value culture, sophistication, and relaxation.

There are many romantic cities around the world that are perfect for a couple’s getaway. Here are some of the most popular ones.

  1. Paris, France – Known as the “City of Love,” Paris is a must-visit destination for couples. From the Eiffel Tower to the Seine River, there are countless romantic spots to explore.
  2. Venice, Italy – With its winding canals, beautiful architecture, and delicious food, Venice is a dream destination for lovers.
  3. Kyoto, Japan – This ancient city is filled with stunning temples, peaceful gardens, and beautiful cherry blossoms, making it a perfect place for a romantic escape.
  4. Santorini, Greece – With its white-washed buildings, blue-domed churches, and stunning sunsets, Santorini is one of the most romantic islands in the world.
  5. Prague, Czech Republic – With its picturesque streets, charming cafes, and historic architecture, Prague is a perfect destination for couples who love a fairytale setting.
  6. Buenos Aires, Argentina – Known as the “Paris of South America,” Buenos Aires is a city of tango, wine, and passion, making it an ideal destination for couples looking for a little romance.
  7. New York City, USA – The Big Apple has countless romantic spots, from Central Park to the top of the Empire State Building.
  8. Bali, Indonesia – With its stunning beaches, luxurious resorts, and breathtaking scenery, Bali is a perfect destination for a romantic getaway.
  9. Dubrovnik, Croatia – This ancient city is filled with history and romance, making it a perfect destination for couples looking for something a little off the beaten path.
  10. Vienna, Austria – With its grand palaces, classical music, and romantic cafes, Vienna is a city that exudes elegance and romance.

What Makes a City Romantic

The criteria that make a city romantic can vary depending on personal preferences and cultural background, but some general characteristics that are often associated with romantic cities include:

Scenic Beauty

Romantic cities often have stunning natural or architectural beauty, such as picturesque streets, historic landmarks, or breathtaking views.

Culture and History

Cities with rich cultural and historical heritage can provide a sense of depth and connection, inspiring a feeling of romance and intimacy.

Culinary Delights

Food is often a crucial element of romance, and cities with delicious cuisine, cozy cafes, or romantic restaurants can set the mood for a romantic evening.

Entertainment and Activities

A city that offers a variety of entertainment and activities, such as concerts, art exhibits, or outdoor adventures, can provide ample opportunities for couples to connect and create memories together.

Atmosphere and Ambiance

Cities with a certain ambiance, whether it be lively and vibrant or peaceful and serene, can set the tone for a romantic experience.

Things to Do in a Romantic City with Your Partner

The best things to do in a romantic city with your partner will depend on the specific city and your shared interests, but here are some general ideas.

Take a Romantic Walk

Stroll hand-in-hand through beautiful parks, historic neighborhoods, or scenic waterfronts.

Enjoy a Romantic Dinner

Choose a restaurant with a cozy ambiance and delicious cuisine, and savor a candlelit dinner together.

Watch the Sunset or Sunrise

Find a romantic spot to watch the sun go down or come up, such as a rooftop bar, beach, or hilltop.

Take a Romantic Cruise

Whether it’s a sunset dinner cruise, a gondola ride, or a riverboat tour, a cruise can be a perfect way to see the city from a different perspective.

Visit Romantic Landmarks

Explore the city’s most romantic landmarks, such as the Eiffel Tower in Paris, the Trevi Fountain in Rome, or the Taj Mahal in India.

Indulge in Spa Treatments

Relax and unwind with a couples’ massage or spa treatment.

Attend a Romantic Show

See a romantic play, ballet, or opera together, or enjoy a live music performance.

Take a Romantic Day Trip

Explore nearby attractions, such as a vineyard or a charming village, or take a scenic drive through the countryside.

Have a Picnic

Pack a basket with your favorite foods, a blanket, and a bottle of wine, and enjoy a romantic picnic in a park or garden.

Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride

Experience the city from above with a hot air balloon ride, a perfect way to create a lasting memory with your partner.

Most Romantic Cities in the World

Paris, France

Paris has long been considered one of the most romantic cities in the world, and for good reason. The city’s beautiful architecture, including grand boulevards and historic landmarks, creates a stunning backdrop for couples. The Seine River and numerous parks and gardens also offer scenic views and romantic strolls.

Paris is also renowned for its cuisine, from delicious pastries to intimate dining experiences. Its rich cultural heritage, including world-class museums and art galleries, makes it an ideal destination for those who appreciate the arts.

What really sets Paris apart is its romantic atmosphere, which permeates the city and can be felt in everything from its language to its music. All of these factors combine to make Paris a truly special and romantic city, perfect for couples looking to celebrate their love. Oui, oui!

Most romantic thing to do in Paris: Explore the charming Montmartre neighborhood. Montmartre is a picturesque neighborhood in Paris, known for its bohemian charm and artistic history. Take a romantic walk through the cobblestone streets, visit the historic Sacré-Cœur Basilica, and enjoy the stunning views of the city.

Venice, Italy

Venice is often considered one of the most romantic cities in the world, and there are several reasons why. First and foremost, the city’s stunning canals and bridges provide a picturesque backdrop for couples, making it a popular destination for romantic getaways.

The city’s architecture with its ornate buildings, colorful houses, and historic landmarks adds to the romantic ambiance. Venice offers plenty of opportunities for intimate dining experiences, with its charming cafes and restaurants serving up delicious cuisine. And of course, taking a gondola ride through the canals is a classic romantic activity that is sure to create lasting memories.

Most Romantic thing to do in Venice (apart from the Gondola Ride): Visit the Bridge of Sighs. This bridge is a historic landmark in Venice that has long been associated with romance. Legend has it that couples who kiss under the bridge at sunset will enjoy eternal love.

Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto is often considered one of the most romantic cities in Japan. The city’s historic temples and shrines provide a serene and picturesque backdrop for couples, creating a sense of tranquility and intimacy.

The city is also home to several beautiful gardens and parks, including the famous Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and the stunning Kinkaku-ji Temple Garden.

Kyoto’s traditional Japanese architecture, with its wooden buildings and charming alleyways, adds to the romantic ambiance of the city. Kyoto is known for its delicious cuisine, including traditional Japanese dishes and local specialties like matcha green tea.

Most romantic thing to do in Kyoto: Visit the Kiyomizu-dera Temple at night. This Temple is one of the most famous temples in Kyoto, and it’s especially beautiful at night when it’s lit up with lanterns. Take a romantic walk through the temple’s grounds and enjoy the stunning views of the city.

Santorini, Greece

Santorini, Greece, is often considered one of the most romantic destinations in the world. The island’s stunning natural beauty is one of the main reasons for this, with its dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and beautiful sunsets providing a breathtaking backdrop for couples.

The island is also known for its charming, white-washed buildings, narrow cobblestone streets, and blue-domed churches, which add to the romantic ambiance of the island.

Santorini’s delicious cuisine, including fresh seafood, Mediterranean-inspired dishes, and local wine, is also a draw for couples. Whether it’s a romantic dinner overlooking the sea or a picnic on the beach, there are plenty of opportunities for intimate dining experiences on the island.

Most romantic thing to do in Santorini: Take a private sailing tour: Explore the island’s stunning coastline and hidden coves on a private sailing tour. It’s a great way to get away from the crowds and enjoy some quality time with your partner.

Prague, Czech Republic

Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, is considered one of the most romantic cities in Europe. Its stunning architecture, historic streets, and charming atmosphere all contribute to the romantic ambiance of the city.

The winding streets of Prague’s Old Town, with its beautiful buildings, small courtyards, and hidden alleys, are perfect for a romantic stroll. The Charles Bridge, with its gothic towers and stunning views of the city, is a must-visit spot for couples.

The city also boasts beautiful parks and gardens, like the romantic Vrtba Garden, where couples can enjoy a picnic or a leisurely walk. Overall, the combination of beautiful architecture, historic streets, and charming atmosphere make Prague an ideal destination for a romantic getaway.

Most romantic thing to do in Prague: Enjoy a classical music concert. Prague is known for its classical music scene, with plenty of concerts happening throughout the city. Attend a concert with your partner in a historic concert hall or church, and let the beautiful music set the mood for a romantic evening.

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Buenos Aires, the capital city of Argentina, is known for its vibrant culture, beautiful architecture, and passionate tango dancing, all of which contribute to its romantic atmosphere.

The city’s stunning architecture, with its grand European-style buildings and charming cobblestone streets, creates a romantic ambiance perfect for strolling hand-in-hand with your partner.

Buenos Aires is also famous for its tango scene, which is considered one of the most passionate and sensual dance styles in the world. Visitors can watch live tango shows in historic cafes or take tango lessons together to experience the intimacy and connection of this beautiful dance.

The city’s parks, like the romantic Japanese Garden or the lush green spaces of Palermo, provide a peaceful escape from the city’s bustling streets.

Most romantic thing to do in Buenos Aires: Visit the Buenos Aires Rose Garden. The garden, or El Rosedal, is a beautiful park with over 18,000 rose bushes, fountains, and a lake. Take a romantic walk through the park, admire the beautiful flowers, and enjoy a picnic together.

New York City, USA

New York City is a great destination for couples who enjoy a getaway to a vibrant and colorful city. NYC’s iconic skyline, with the Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty, creates a dramatic and unforgettable backdrop for any romantic outing.

New York City is also home to some of the world’s best restaurants, offering a diverse range of cuisines and dining experiences perfect for a romantic dinner or brunch.

The city’s many parks, like Central Park and the High Line, provide peaceful oases in the midst of the bustling city, and are perfect for a romantic stroll or picnic.

The city’s rich arts and cultural scene also offers many opportunities for couples to enjoy live music, theater, or dance performances together.

Most romantic thing to do in New York City: Attend a Broadway show. New York City’s Broadway theater district is one of the most famous in the world, offering a variety of shows from musicals to dramas. Attending a show with your partner is a memorable and romantic experience, and there’s nothing like the energy and excitement of a Broadway performance.

Bali, Indonesia

This Indonesian island offers stunning natural scenery with its lush greenery, serene beaches, and crystal-clear waters.

Bali’s relaxed and peaceful atmosphere creates a perfect setting for a romantic getaway. Bali is also known for its luxurious resorts and villas, many of which offer private infinity pools and breathtaking views. Couples can indulge in spa treatments, beachfront dining, and other intimate experiences that create lasting memories.

Bali’s culture is rich with traditional dances, temples, and ceremonies that provide a unique and authentic experience for couples. The island’s charm, beauty, and cultural richness make it a perfect destination for couples looking for a romantic escape.

Most romantic thing to do in Bali: Have a private beach dinner. Many resorts in Bali offer private beach dining experiences, where you can enjoy a romantic dinner under the stars with the sound of the waves in the background.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Dubrovnik, also known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” is also one of the most romantic cities in Europe. The city’s old town is a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning medieval architecture, cobblestone streets, and historic walls that surround the city.

The city’s location on the Adriatic coast also offers breathtaking views of the sea and nearby islands. Dubrovnik is known for its romantic sunsets, which can be enjoyed from various viewpoints, such as the city walls or a cliff-top bar.

Couples can also take romantic walks along the picturesque streets and alleys, enjoy seafood dinners at a local restaurant, or take a boat ride to nearby islands.

Most romantic thing to do in Dubrovnik: Take a cable car to Mount Srd. The cable car ride to Mount Srd offers panoramic views of Dubrovnik’s coastline. Once at the top, couples can enjoy a romantic dinner at the restaurant while taking in the breathtaking views.

Vienna, Austria

Vienna, the capital of Austria, is known for its incredible architecture, beautiful parks, and rich cultural heritage.

The city is famous for its Baroque palaces, including the Schönbrunn Palace and the Belvedere Palace, both of which offer picturesque gardens and gorgeous interiors. Vienna’s lively music scene, with its famous opera houses and classical music concerts, adds to its romantic allure.

Couples can also take romantic strolls along the Danube River, visit the historic cafes, or enjoy a promenade through the city’s cobbled streets. Vienna’s romantic charm and cultural richness make it an ideal destination for couples looking for a memorable and romantic experience.

Most romantic thing to do in Vienna: Watch an opera or classical music concert. Vienna’s music scene is famous for its opera houses and classical music concerts. Couples can enjoy a romantic evening listening to Mozart or Beethoven’s music at one of these venues.

Also check out 10 WALKABLE CITIES IN THE USA FOR WOMEN OVER 50.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Have you been to any of these cities? Do you plan to visit one of these cities with your partner? Tell us about it in the comments below.

Subscribe
Notify of
guest

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

0 Comments
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments

The Author

Sandra is the middle-aged woman you hear about who sheds everything she owns and sets out into the world to rediscover and redefine herself. After more than twenty years spent in the fashion industry designing collections for brands such as La Senza, Victoria’s Secret, and JACOB Lingerie, she shifted her path and pursued her longtime passion for writing, traveling, and photography. Sandra was published in the NY Times best selling book Eat Pray Love Made Me Do It. A deeply personal essay hand-picked by Elizabeth Gilbert about loss, facing fears, and going after dreams. Visit her website: www.sandraroussy.com

You Might Also Like