Vernazza, Cinque Terre, Italy
Of the five coastal villages that make up Italy’s Cinque Terre, there’s none more romantic than Vernazza, a colorful cliffside town that dates back to around 1,000 AD.
Biarritz, France
Whether you’re coming for the waves or the glitz—you’ll find plenty of both here—Biarritz is one of France’s most swoon-worthy gems. If you love walks on the beach, there’s no better place to go for a romantic stroll than the town’s sandy stretches, which are lined with eye-popping Belle Époque villas.
Ischia, Italy
Neighboring Capri, in Italy’s Bay of Naples, may get all the attention, but lesser known Ischia is just as alluring.
Oia, Santorini, Greece
Set 235 steps (or a mule ride) above Ammoudi Port, Oia, the most famous village on Santorini, is where you’ll find the iconic blue-domed churches and whitewashed houses you’ve seen in pictures so many times before. Everything here screams romance from the narrow, photogenic lanes to the unexpected gems, like Atlantis Books — a beautiful English-language bookshop.
Brac, Croatia
The restful and romantic feel of Braç, in Croatia’s Dalmation Coast, is a far cry from the yacht-filled harbors and swanky party vibes of nearby Hvar.
Kotor, Montenegro
Despite its emergence as a cruise ship stopover, Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage city, is still off the beaten track—and completely unforgettable. Its fortified port, built during the Venetian period, overlooks a sparkling bay ringed by limestone cliffs, and the preserved medieval streets of Old Town.
San Sebastian, Spain
With its aging buildings, golden beaches and gastronomic temples, San Sebastián in Spain’s Basque Country is one of the country’s most impressive destinations.
Tallinn, Estonia
Many old Eastern European towns offer romance in spades, and Tallinn is no exception—after all, how many cities have their own Kissing Hill? Walk the cobblestone streets, past bars and restaurants lit by candlelight to natural sanctuaries like the Danish King’s Garden, the Swan Pond Kadriorg Park.
