Top 3 Romantic Destinations for Valentines
With romance in the air, it’s time to escape from your everyday life and sneak away for a short break filled with romance, bubbles, magic, love and memories to return to forever.
Paris has long been a bucket-list top destination for LOVE. But what about other European cities which ooze romance, decadence, special moments and all things LOVE-ly!
Here are our Top 3 alternative romantic destinations for Valentines 2025:
1. Romance in the City of Prague
Prague offers countless ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day – you can choose from special shows and concerts in the evening, wonderful restaurants for candlelit dinners accompanied by live jazz, or a romantic balloon ride up in the skies – a great way to see the city! If the weather is kind, Prague has some beautiful cobbled streets, parks and gardens for you to walk arm-in-arm and take in the romance of the city in a relaxed and leisurely way.
We have narrowed down some of our favourite things to do in Prague for Valentine’s Day:
Top 3 romantic things to do in Prague:
1. Padlock your love on the bridge in Mala Strana
Across the world couples share their love for each other by padlocking it to some of the worlds most beautiful bridges. Take a stroll through the cobbled streets of Malá Strana and visit the magical Lovers’ Bridge - small in size but overflowing with romance, this cherished spot is adorned with padlocks bearing the heartfelt promises of couples from around the world. And if you really wanted to make your loved one feel even more special, then why not surprise them with a personalised engraved padlock for you both to share your love story.
2. Sit back in a Horse-Drawn Carriage and Tour the Old Town
Feel like royalty as you glide through the enchanting streets of Prague’s Old Town in a luxurious horse-drawn carriage. Let the gentle clip-clop of hooves set the rhythm for your romantic journey while you and your partner sit back and embrace the timeless charm of this magical city. This unforgettable experience not only captures the essence of romance but offers a serene and graceful way to explore the city’s beauty together. Carriages provide big cosy blankets, but don’t forget to wrap up and cuddle up to stay warm!
3. Relax with a Spa & Beer!
When it comes to couples' spa days, Prague takes things to a whole new level – by adding beer to the mix (yes, you heard it here first)!
Because, well, why just sip beer when you can soak in it too? Beer spas are the ultimate way to unwind after a day of sightseeing. Picture yourself bathing in beer extract, sweating it out in a hop-infused sauna, and lounging on a bed of wheat straw, all while enjoying a cool glass of beer. A unique twist on a classic couples' experience!
2. The Very Romantic Rivers of Venice
No-one celebrates love quite like the Italians (ok, maybe the French!) with their beautiful heritage, culture, love stories and celebrations. Venice is one of those places – those magical fairytale destinations – which needs to be experienced at least once in your lifetime and is always much better when shared with your loved one.
Venice becomes a living, breathing masterpiece of romance on Valentine’s Day, offering the perfect backdrop for lovers. From gondolas gracefully drifting along historic canals to charming bridges whispering tales of love, every inch of Venice oozes romance.
Whilst St. Mark’s Square and Gondola rides will be at the top of your list, here are some of our other favourite things to do in Venice for Valentine’s Day:
Top 3 romantic things to do in Venice:
1. Seal your Love with a Kiss under the Bridge of Sighs
Venice’s iconic Bridge of Sighs is a must-see, captivating visitors with its beauty and history. According to a romantic legend, couples who share a kiss beneath the bridge at sunset, as the bells of St. Mark’s ring, are destined for eternal love. While the tale may be more fiction than fact, it’s a delightful excuse for a heartfelt embrace in one of the world’s most romantic settings.
2. Naughty Moments with Masks and Hidden Fantasies
During February, it’s Carnival season and the city’s mask and costume shops are brimming with extravagant and whimsical designs, ready to dazzle the crowds at one of the world’s most iconic celebrations. Even if you’re not in Venice during Carnival, you can still join the fun by indulging in some mask shopping! Explore the artisan boutiques of neighbourhoods like San Polo, where you’ll find beautifully handcrafted masks that make for unforgettable souvenirs.
Top tip: Keep an eye out for the "Vera Venetian" label to ensure you’re taking home an authentic piece of Venetian artistry.
3. Escape the Crowds and visit Burano in the Venetian Lagoon
While Venice overflows with romance, those seeking a quieter, more intimate escape with their partner should consider a boat trip to Burano – a beautifully charming island in the Venetian lagoon.
This idyllic, yet vibrant coloured secret slice of heaven is a kaleidoscope of brightly painted houses lining narrow canals and cobbled streets, creating a picture-perfect postcard backdrop for a peaceful escape from the crowds.
3. Budapest and Beyond – A Romanic Getaway for Valentines
Budapest is often referred to as the "Paris of the East" - a dream destination for couples in search of a romantic escape, those who would like to experience something a little different, away from the ‘norm’.
With its charming streets, timeless architecture and breathtaking views, this city provides a magical setting for love to flourish. From taking a stroll along the Danube with sweeping views from hilltop lookout points, enjoying a candlelit cruise beneath the sparkling lights of the city or relaxing in Budapest’s famous thermal baths, you won’t run out of things to do for your romantic weekend getaway.
Below is a list of our top 3 moments to experience together:
Top 3 romantic things to do in Budapest:
1. Enjoy Wine Tasting Together
A wine tasting experience is a perfect way for couples to indulge in Budapest's rich wine culture and explore the unique flavours of Hungarian wines together.
Hungary is famous for its sweet Tokaji, along with a variety of other wines that are sure to impress (and surprise you)!
Discover these exquisite selections at cozy, intimate wine bars where expert sommeliers will guide you through the best local offerings.
For a more private and romantic experience, many Budapest wine bars and vineyards offer exclusive tastings, which Lucusta Travel can organise as part of your romantic getaway.
2. Enjoy the Sunrise at Fisherman’s Bastion
Fisherman’s Bastion is one of Budapest’s most romantic places to visit, offering a stunning vantage point to watch the sunrise. This grand fortress, located near Buda Castle, is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. To enjoy its beauty without the crowds, it’s best to arrive early, find your spot and hold hands until the sun comes up.
3. Hot/Cold Experience at Budapest’s Thermal Baths
You might think Hungary's thermal baths are just overrated tourist spots, but they’re far from it! Soaking and unwinding together in these baths is one of the most relaxing and romantic things to enjoy in Budapest.
While the Széchenyi Baths are the most famous, the Rudas and Gellért Baths offer equally memorable experiences and moments to be shared. Spending a few hours drifting in the warm waters with your loved one is the perfect way to relax and recharge before continuing your exploration of the city.
So there you have it folks! Our top 3 alternative destinations to visit in Europe for Valentine’s Day. Whilst we absolutely adore Paris (and even London!) for romance, sometimes experiencing other European destinations offers more magic and more moments for you to enjoy.