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Fancy a change of scene? Grab your other half and get ready to discover the best city breaks for couples — from European gems to UK locales just a short train ride away.
There’s so much to love about a city break. From soaking up local culture to admiring incredible buildings, museums and landmarks. A weekend away is ideal for a couples’ getaway, too. Luckily, the UK & Europe aren’t short on fabulous options for a romantic city break, whether you’re after something cheap and cheerful or the perfect place to propose.
The best city breaks for couples in Europe
Amazing architecture, mouth-watering food and awesome activity options makes Europe a no-brainer for a romantic getaway. But which city to choose? Here are my top picks:
1. Rome, Italy
- Where to stay: Colonna Palace Hotel
- When to go: Spring
- Best for: Foodies and culture lovers
It’s hard to beat Italy’s beautiful capital for incredible food, eye-popping architecture and a magical atmosphere. Rome has enticed visitors for centuries with its ancient ruins and rich culture — and it’s always a top choice for couples city breaks in Europe.
Along with its sensational culinary scene and glut of rooftop bars, the list of activities for couples is endless. After seeing the classics, from the Roman Forum to the Sistine Chapel, why not book a limoncello tasting or one of the many opera shows.
Spring offers ideal weather for wandering around the cobbled streets of Trastevere or dining alfresco in Monti. You can also hire bikes and explore the elegant Villa Borghese park. Or why not pick up a bottle of wine and venture up to Pincio Hill Gardens for sunset city views?
2. Krakow, Poland
- Where to stay: Hotel Wawel Queen
- When to go: Winter
- Best for: An affordable romantic getaway
History lies at every turn in this breathtaking Polish city. Its medieval Old Town is the ideal backdrop for a romantic escape, plus you’ll find plenty to keep you occupied — from museums and galleries to pierogi (Polish dumpling) cooking classes.
A trip to the wonderfully preserved Wawel Castle on the city’s Vistula riverfront is a must. If your trip falls over a Tuesday, take advantage of the free entry to the Rynek Underground Museum. Situated beneath the Cloth Hall, it provides brilliant insight into the city during the medieval era.
Activities aside, Krakow is a very affordable romantic city break destination. Hotels start at around £40 a night for a very decent room and you can enjoy a glass of delicious local wine for under £3.
3. Porto, Portugal
- Where to stay: Vincci Porto
- When to go: Summer
- Best for: Great wine and alfresco dinners
Porto is a fantastic spot for a romantic city break. A visit to one (or more) of the city’s port wine lodges for a tasting session is a must. Or take a day trip out to the Douro Valley where you can cruise along the river and stop off at various charming wineries.
Back in the city, seek out a traditional Fado house for music and dancing. In summer, you’ll also be able to sip refreshing vinho verde (green wine) and dine alfresco on various rooftop terraces with epic views. Of for something less traditional try the charming natural wine bar Gito – the host is incredibly friendly.
There are plenty of amazing places to stay in Porto, with many offering great rates. I’d recommend picking a hotel in the gorgeous Cedofeita area. It’s not far from the main sights and has an abundance of local restaurants — including specialities like francesinha (share one with your partner as these can be incredibly heavy!)
4. Bruges, Belgium
- Where to stay: The Chocolate Suites
- When to go: Spring
- Best for: Chocolate and romance
Perhaps one of Belgium’s most attractive cities, Bruges is also one of the best city breaks for couples seeking romance. Candy-coloured medieval architecture, tranquil canals, horse-drawn carriages and a park linked to a legendary love story are testament to this.
The park in question is the Minnewater or so-called ‘Lake of Love’. Visit the city in late spring to see it bursting with blossoms. Spring is also a brilliant time to go to Bruges to experience the May Fair. The month-long event has been held in the city since the 12th century and now features heaps of rides, food stalls and other delightful attractions. Perfect for couples who want to satisfy their inner children!
Other things worth adding to your romantic escape itinerary include a chocolate tasting at a local chocolatier (there are loads to choose from). For a perfect couples’ photo op, venture to Rosary Quay which provides a pretty panorama of the city’s canals and historic buildings. Note the city is small and very walkable. A great option if you and your partner enjoy city walks.
5. Copenhagen, Denmark
- Where to stay: Hotel Sct. Thomas
- When to go: Summer
- Best for: Scandi style and outdoor dining
This trendy Scandi capital is another great spot for a romantic European city break — with an eclectic mix of activities on offer. History buffs will want to check out the atmospheric Citadel, while Tivoli (the city’s famous amusement park) is ideal for thrill seekers.
Summer is a a great time to visit as the days are long and you can enjoy picnics in the park or outdoor dining at the many amazing restaurants. What’s more, balmier weather makes strolling around a breeze. And you can easily spend an afternoon relaxing on one of Copenhagen’s urban beaches or canals.
6. Gothenburg, Sweden
- Where to stay: Clarion Hotel Post
- When to go: Autumn
- Best for: A mix of city life and outdoor adventure
This under the radar Swedish city is ideal for a more unusual romantic weekend break in Europe. Gothenburg city centre is incredibly attractive and full of great shopping, museums and charming cafes.
Pop into the Gothenburg City Museum to swot up on some local viking history. You can then cross over the canal to visit the city’s striking cathedral and to wander around the stalls at the wonderfully old-fashioned Market Hall. Gothenburg is also home to Liseberg: one of the best theme parks in Scandinavia.
For outdoor lovers, the Bohusleden trail runs right around the city and is easily accessible by public transport. While you can choose to hike and wild camp for a few nights, it’s also possible to do a day hike. I went in September when the trail was much quieter and the autumnal foliage was stunning.
7. Munich, Germany
- Where to stay: Hotel Bayerischer
- When to go: Summer
- Best for: German beers and outdoor fun
You might have been told before to visit Munich in winter for its magical Christmas markets or in autumn to experience Oktoberfest. For a couples’ escape, though, summer is my favourite season. Temperatures can get pretty hot between June and September and the city has plenty of outdoor attractions.
Join the locals in English Garden (Munich’s huge main park) where you can sprawl out on a blanket together or watch the surfers (yep, your read correctly!) at the Surfenwalle. My favourite area though is the quieter northern section of the park which looks like something out of a Jane Austen novel. Munich’s beer gardens come into their own in the summer and are the ideal places to cool off. Or for the more active couples, you can jump in the River Isar for a swim.
For a longer romantic getaway consider a day trip to the Alps. You can get the train to idyllic Tegerensee in just over an hour. Once there, take a dip in its majestic lake or hike through the mountains to neighbouring Schliersee where you can take a train back to Munich.
8. Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Where to stay: Antiq Palace Hotel & Spa
- When to go: Spring
- Best for: River wanders and epic day trips
Ljubljana has gained in popularity over the past few years — but it’s still an under the radar place for a couples’ escape. The city’s charming medieval Old Town is its beating heart and where you’ll find most of its restaurants, shops and heritage sites. Keep your eyes peeled for Baroque palaces, pastel-hued churches and the bustling Central Market.
A romantic stroll along the Ljubljanica River is a great afternoon activity. Just make sure you snap a selfie together at the Dragon Bridge! You can also break up your walk with a cafe stop on Petkovšek Embankment to sample a slice of delicious regional gibanica cake.
Ljubljana is another of the best city breaks for couples travelling on a smaller budget. You can get a lot more for your money here compared to other European capitals, especially when it comes to accommodation. Visiting in the spring will give you a great balance of fewer crowds but pleasant temperatures for sightseeing.
9. Verona, Italy
- Where to stay: Hotel Marco Polo
- When to go: Winter
- Best for: Hopeless romantics
Where better to jet off to for a romantic getaway than the setting of one of the world’s greatest love stories? Your first stop in Verona should be Casa di Giulietta (Juliet’s House) on Via Cappello. Here you can stand beneath the balcony which looks remarkably like the one mentioned in Shakespeare’s tragic tale, Romeo and Juliet.
If that’s too soppy for your tastes, there are heaps of other things to do as a couple throughout the city. Catch a performance at the Philharmonic Theater; people watch from a cafe in bustling Piazza delle Erbe, or take a stroll across the medieval Ponte Scaliger.
Winter is a wonderful time of year to visit fair Verona. In November and December, you can enjoy authentic German-style Christmas markets and sample festive treats like sweet and fluffy pandoro. Or go in January to enjoy the city’s dreamy streets with far fewer crowds.
10. Dublin, Ireland
- Where to stay: The Westbury
- When to go: Year round
- Best for: Tasty tipples and terrific culture
A couples’ break to Dublin doesn’t just have to be about drinking Guinness (although a visit to the Guinness Storehouse is always recommended). Ireland’s capital is also dripping in history and culture — with something to intrigue every interest.
Take a turn around the city’s impressive Trinity College university campus, including its atmospheric March’s Library. Art fans won’t want to miss the Hugh Lane Gallery where you’ll find the reassembled London art studio of Irish painter, Francis Bacon. Or why not take a whiskey distillery tour? There are several great options, including the Jameson Distillery on Bow Street.
Dublin’s filled with cosy pubs where you can enjoy a pint (the Guinness really does taste better in Ireland). While the touristy Temple Bar district is worth a gander for its ambience. For more locally-loved drinking and dining spots try Smithfield to the north and Ranelagh to the south – Host or Grano in particular are amazing spots for a romantic treat.
Best city breaks for couples in the UK
Prefer to keep your couples’ adventure closer to home? From Regency gems to Scottish underdogs, these are my favourite spots for a UK city break with my partner in tow.
11. Glasgow, Scotland
- Where to stay: Sandman Signature Hotel
- When to go: Summer
- Best for: Art lovers and foodies
Edinburgh is always one of my recommendations for a couples’ New Year getaway thanks to its legendary Hogmanay celebrations. Nevertheless, the country’s second city, Glasgow, will always be my number one spot to visit throughout the rest of the year.
Galleries and museums galore, an incredible independent food scene and plenty of lush green spaces gives it universal appeal. The city centre is surprisingly grand, with grid-like streets bursting with handsome Georgian and Victorian buildings. While it’s great for shopping, I’d recommend heading to the West End area for a more cultural day out. The eclectic exhibitions at the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum never fail to inspire, while the Glasgow Botanic Gardens are brimming with tropical beauties.
Foodies will be in their element on a Glasgow couples’ break, too. West End neighbourhoods like Partick and Finnieston host some enticing options, from delicious Asian cuisine and authentic Italian delis to incredible bakeries like the Big Bear Bakery (try the pistachio croissants). For a choice of venues, venture down cobbled Ashton Lane that’s wonderfully lit with strings of fairy lights.
Getting around Glasgow couldn’t be easier, either. Hop on the subway (affectionately nicknamed the Clockwork Orange for its decor) which has numerous stops in the West End area. Fancy a day trip? Hop on a train to Balloch; the nearest stop to Loch Lomond’s lovely shores.
12. Bath, England
- Where to stay: Abbey Hotel Bath, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel
- When to go: Spring
- Best for: Literature lovers and history obsessives
Bath is one of the UK’s most romantic city break destinations. Breathtaking Georgian architecture is everywhere you look and the city has an amazing independent shopping and dining scene. You can easily spend a whole day strolling around Bath’s quaint cobbled lanes. They host all kinds of lovely shops — from book shops and bakeries to a plant emporium where you can pick up exquisite terrariums.
Bath is also a creation city break option for relaxation. Book a slot for two at the luxe Thermae Bath Spa that sits right next to the cathedral. As well as enjoying massages and other treatments, you can also sip Champagne from the spa’s rooftop pool.
2025 is set to be an extra special year for Bath, too, as it marks Jane Austen’s 250th birthday. The author lived in the city in the early 1800s and there’s a museum dedicated to her on Gay Street. This year, there’ll be a string of special events to commemorate her life and work. You could even attend a Regency-style ball in September during the Jane Austen Festival.
Tips for planning a romantic city break
- Save money by going off-season. If you’re booking a couples break on a budget, going off-season is the best travel hack there is. Everything, from flights and hotels to booking tours, can be cheaper. Most cities are brilliant to visit all year round, too.
- Consider what you BOTH want. First things first, this is a couples’ break, so make sure you consider both your needs when picking a destination. That is unless it’s a surprise trip somewhere your partner has always wanted to go. Then, kudos to you.
- Think about your hobbies. All of Europe and the UK’s romantic city break destinations have their own unique allures. While some (like Rome) are ideal for history buffs, fans of the great outdoors might prefer a city like Munich or Gothenburg which provides easy access to epic hiking trails.
- Or try somewhere totally random. If you love a little spontaneity in your relationship, why not pick one of the above best city breaks for couples at random? KAYAK Explore can also be used to find places easily accessible from your location.
More destinations for a romantic couples’ break
Fancy a winter escape for two? Or how about a soothing spa break at one of the UK’s best hotels? There are so many memorable places where you can spend some valuable time together in 2025.
The post The best city breaks for couples across Europe (and where to stay) appeared first on KAYAK Blog UK.
