This blog post was updated on November 20, 2023.

Are you looking for a romantic getaway that isn’t already full of couples looking for romantic getaways? Would you like to whisk your beloved off his or her feet and share a charmingly intimate encounter without the teeming masses of Paris or Venice bustling around you?

Well, come with us, then, and discover Europe’s hidden romantic retreats. Europe is so much more than Rome and Prague. Beyond the popular destinations, there are lesser-known towns and cities with their own captivating stories, where romance is a palpable experience in the soft evening light and on the quiet street corners. Europe is filled with unexpected delights and cozy corners for couples looking for a distinctive romantic experience away from the usual tourist trails.

Imagine taking peaceful walks hand in hand and sharing secret kisses in some of Europe’s quieter but just as captivating cities, where quiet spots perfect for romance are yours to discover.

Český Krumlov, Czech Republic

Hidden in the south of the Czech Republic, Český Krumlov is one of the most picturesque towns in all of Europe. Think the charm of Prague, but in miniature, Český Krumlov is also decidedly less crowded, lending couples an idyllic spot to hide away for the weekend. The town is small and walkable, giving you plenty of opportunity to take romantic strolls throughout the city’s mazelike alleyways.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Český Krumlov is anchored by its imposing castle with Renaissance architecture and a historic Baroque theatre. Stroll through the castle gardens or sail along the Vltava River. The town’s labyrinthine streets lead to many cozy cafes, the Egon Schiele Art Centrum, and the charming gothic architecture of St. Vitus Church.

As dusk settles, the town square, illuminated by soft lights against a backdrop of historic buildings, offers a romantic setting for couples to savor the town’s timeless charm.

Cuenca, Spain

Perched atop a steep promontory at the joining of two deep river gorges, Cuenca has a flair for the dramatic by its mere positioning alone. Located in east-central Spain, this UNESCO World Heritage site was originally laid out by the Moors in a defensive position and later conquered by the Castilians in the 12th century.

You and your loved one can roam its narrow streets that seem to teeter precariously on a hilltop. Or you can visit the town’s famous Casas Colgadas, or “Hanging Houses,” dramatically suspended from sheer cliffs overlooking the Huécar River. In addition, Cuenca dazzles with its Gothic and Renaissance palaces and quiet plazas where you and your paramour can grab a drink. Art lovers can also rejoice on a visit to Cuenca, as the city boasts more art museums per capita than any other place in central Spain.

Ribe, Denmark

Ribe is believed to be the oldest town in Denmark, and while it isn’t quite Copenhagen, the town makes for a much quieter getaway. The history of Ribe can be traced back more than 1300 years, and the town relishes in its old age, which visitors can experience in its crooked cobblestone thoroughfares and half-timbered 16th-century houses.

Also home to the oldest cathedral in Denmark, the historic community boasts more than 100 structures registered by the National Trust. Once an important trading center during the Viking era, Ribe still manages to hold on to the cute. The city continues to uphold the charming tradition of a town watchman who makes his rounds of Ribe by lantern light.

Bosa, Italy

While you could impress your sweetheart with a box of candy this Valentine’s Day, you could instead bring a box of brightly colored candies to life by visiting Bosa. This vibrant town, just an hour’s drive from Alghero on the island of Sardinia, is famed for its pastel-colored houses that ascend the hillside like a cascade of sweets. At the hill’s summit, the Malaspina Castle, erected in the 12th century, offers a historical landmark with stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.

Explore Bosa’s heritage through its well-preserved 19th-century leather tanneries along the Temo River, the only navigable river in Sardinia. Wander with your loved one through the Sa Costa district, where the streets are a labyrinth of hues, leading to artisan shops and cafes, creating an ambience that’s as romantic as it is visually stunning.

Chania, Greece

Set between craggy mountains and the expansive sea on Crete, Chania, the island’s one-time capital, carries its history with grace rather than with the need for modern-day titles. The city’s old-world charm is woven through a maze of streets lined with Venetian and Turkish buildings. Chania invites couples to explore its distinctive eateries and welcoming boutique hotels. A stroll along the harbor promenade at sunset is particularly enchanting, offering a quieter, yet equally romantic, atmosphere once the summer crowds have departed.

Colmar, France

In the heart of the Alsace region, Colmar offers a blend of French and German cultures, best illustrated by its traditional half-timbered houses and the flower-lined canals that have earned it the nickname “Little Venice.” A stroll through the old town reveals a mélange of architectural styles, from medieval to Renaissance, each building telling a story of the town’s storied past. Lovers can meander along the cobblestone paths, cross quaint bridges, and enjoy the peaceful rhythm of the canal waters on a leisurely boat tour.

Colmar is also a haven for wine lovers, with a local festival showcasing the area’s renowned Rieslings and Gewürztraminers. The Unterlinden Museum, housed in a 13th-century convent, displays art that spans eight centuries, including the famous Isenheim Altarpiece.

As night falls, the town’s vibrant cultural life continues to thrive in its cozy wine bars and Michelin-starred restaurants, inviting couples to indulge in a taste of Alsace that is as rich in flavor as it is in history.

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Hallstatt, Austria

Hallstatt, a charming village in Austria’s Salzkammergut region, is a scenic gem that offers a slice of Alpine paradise. Its mirror-like lake, framed by the Dachstein Alps, reflects the pastel houses and creates a postcard-perfect view from every angle. This UNESCO World Heritage site is steeped in history, owing much of its prosperity to its ancient salt mines, which are among the oldest in the world and accessible to visitors keen to delve into the mountain’s depths.

The village’s compact size makes it ideal for leisurely exploration; take a walk along the lake, visit the historic Market Square, or explore the local heritage at the Hallstatt Museum. For a panoramic view, couples can ascend the Salzberg via funicular and gaze out over the dramatic landscape. The village also offers delightful culinary experiences, with local establishments serving traditional Austrian cuisine that can be enjoyed with a backdrop of the alpine scenery.

Whether it’s the serene boat rides on the Hallstatt Lake, the evocative silence of the Echern Valley’s waterfalls, or the rustic charm of the wood-carved homes, Hallstatt’s serene beauty makes it a perfect retreat for romance.

FAQs: 

Q: What is the best time of year to visit these European towns for a romantic getaway?
A: The ideal time to visit these towns is late spring (May to June) or early fall (September to October). You’ll enjoy pleasant weather and fewer tourists compared to the peak summer months.

Q: Are these destinations suitable for couples who enjoy outdoor activities?
A: Absolutely. Each town offers unique outdoor experiences, from boat rides in Colmar’s canals to hiking in the Dachstein Alps near Hallstatt. They cater to various levels of adventure and are perfect for active couples.

Q: What are the options for romantic dining in these towns?
A: Each town boasts a range of dining options, from quaint bistros in Chania to waterfront restaurants in Český Krumlov. Many places offer locally sourced ingredients and traditional dishes, providing an intimate dining experience.

Q: How accessible are these towns for non-European travelers?
A: These towns are accessible via major airports followed by train or car journeys. Colmar is near Strasbourg Airport, Český Krumlov is accessible from Prague, Bosa from Alghero Airport, Chania from Chania International Airport, and Hallstatt via Salzburg.

Q: Can we find luxury accommodations in these smaller towns?
A: Yes, there are luxury accommodations available, ranging from boutique hotels to historic inns, providing amenities that cater to a high-end experience while maintaining local charm.

Q: Are language barriers a concern in these smaller, less touristy towns?
A: English is commonly spoken in tourist areas, but it’s always appreciated if you learn a few key phrases in the local language. In less tourist-centric spots, having a translation app or phrasebook can be helpful.

Q: Is there a recommended length of stay to fully enjoy these towns?
A: A stay of 2-3 days in each town should suffice to experience the romantic atmosphere, enjoy the main attractions, and relax without rushing. However, if you’re keen on a deeper exploration, extending your stay is always an enjoyable option.