Where to Go for a Romantic Weekend?

Are you in the mood for a romantic weekend getaway? No matter the time of year, enjoying a special moment with the person you love is always a great idea. In France or just a few hours away by car, train, or plane, there are plenty of romantic destinations to choose from! In this post, I suggest discovering some of the best places to go on a weekend with your partner.

How could I start this selection differently than with Paris, the City of Light? The French capital is the epitome of romance, a destination that attracts lovers from all over the world, who dream of coming here at least once in their lives to stroll along the riverbanks, see the Eiffel Tower, and visit iconic neighborhoods like Montmartre.

Of course, a weekend is hardly enough time for a complete tour of Paris, but you can still make the most of your time as a couple and create unforgettable moments in some of the city's most romantic spots. You will likely want to return very soon for another romantic weekend in Paris.

During your stay, don't forget to stop by the Pont des Arts, nicknamed the Lovers' Bridge, where you can attach a padlock to seal your love. Also plan to explore Paris at night, when the city and its most beautiful monuments are illuminated. In Paris, you will also have the opportunity to dine one-on-one in excellent gourmet restaurants, and why not even have dinner on a barge during a cruise along the Seine.

If you are reading this article, you are looking for a destination to go with your loved one, and in that case, you will need a place to stay! Here are my recommendations.

Novotel Suites: This establishment in the 14th arrondissement is located 8 miles from Orly Airport and just a stone's throw from the metro, which quickly connects you to downtown. It includes a gym, play area, and bar. Plus, every room has a TV and a private bathroom. For a night for two, the average price is around $250. Of course, it might be higher or lower depending on the season and room choice.

Montparnasse Alésia: With its bright and well-appointed rooms, this hotel, located in the 14th arrondissement, is just minutes from a metro station and close to the Montparnasse Tower and Exhibition Park. Many restaurants are also located around the property. For a night for two, the minimum price ranges from $145 to $435 depending on your stay period.

Along with Paris, another great destination for love is, of course, Venice. The City of Canals is one of those places you must visit at least once in your life, and of course, you should do it with someone special! Moreover, Venice can be quite easily explored over a weekend, and you will return home with beautiful memories. Here is my article to help you find a place to stay in Venice in case this destination captures your dreams!

Whether you arrive by train, plane, or road, I recommend reaching the city via the vaporetto to start this romantic weekend in the best way. You will glide along the Grand Canal and get your first taste of the Venetian palaces and monuments.

St. Mark's Square, the Bridge of Sighs, the Rialto Bridge, the Doge's Palace... many treasures await you in Venice, best visited early in the morning before the crowds arrive. Of course, a romantic weekend in Venice wouldn't be complete without a gondola ride. This activity, while very touristy, is still a must-do to fully enjoy the unique atmosphere of the Serenissima.

You can also wander through the quaint streets of the city for some great discoveries, visit Burano and Murano, the islands of the Venice Lagoon, and sample local specialties at the best trattorias in Venice. Finally, if a longer stay in this city interests you, I highly recommend making a road trip in Northern Italy to explore not only Venice but also other absolutely stunning Italian regions!

If you want to head to Venice with your partner, here are two hotels I recommend for a wonderful romantic weekend!

Luxury Santo Stefano: This apartment is located in the San Marco district of Venice, just 500 meters from the city center. It offers a large, spacious, and bright double room. You will be close to various points of interest such as the Doge's Palace, St. Mark's Basilica, and the Rialto Bridge. For one night, the price ranges from $125 to $265.

Abbazia Hotel: This establishment is located in the Cannaregio district and was built in a former monastery. It features a large courtyard garden and classic rooms equipped with mini bars. Additionally, the hotel has a bar and is close to several tourist attractions such as the Bridge of Sighs. For a double room, expect to pay around $235, although prices are much lower towards the end of the year.

The capital of the Czech Republic is a perfect destination for couples looking to spend a romantic weekend. Less than 2 hours from Paris, Prague, known as the 'City of a Hundred Spires', is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Its historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is teeming with sights and activities, and during a pleasant stroll through its cobblestone streets, you'll sometimes feel like you're in the heart of a fairy tale.

By discovering Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, the Church of Our Lady before Týn, the Astronomical Clock, and many other monuments, you will immerse yourself in the city's 1000-year history and admire its wonderful Gothic, Baroque, Renaissance, and many other architectural styles.

The hill of Malá Strana and Letná Hill are among the most romantic places in the Czech capital, where lovers come to stroll, enjoying the calm and admiring the beautiful views over the city. You can also take a lovely walk along the banks of the Vltava River, lined with markets, restaurants, and cafes.

Prague is a lovely destination to discover as a couple, so I propose two establishments where you can stay during your romantic weekend.

Prague Star: Featuring a bar, modern rooms, and mezzanine studios, this 4-star hotel also boasts an ideal location in the heart of Prague, close to a metro station. Breakfast is included with your reservation, and many restaurants, bars, and shops surround the property. The minimum price for a double room ranges from $80 to $130 per night, depending on the season.

Prague Season Hotel: This 4-star establishment is just steps from the National Museum of Prague and offers spacious, elegantly designed rooms, as well as a bar and private parking. Breakfast is included when you book. Each room also has a private bathroom. Numerous points of interest are nearby. For one night for two, the minimum price typically ranges from $55 to $160, depending on the season.

The second Italian city in this selection, Florence, is a true open-air museum, universally considered one of the most beautiful cities in Europe and even the world. Dubbed the 'Cradle of the Renaissance', this Tuscan city, crossed by the Arno River, is perfect for a romantic getaway, especially if you have an appreciation for art.

The historical, architectural, and cultural heritage of Florence is unparalleled. It's no wonder that this city has such a romantic atmosphere, as many of the masterpieces you can discover here were created from love. And to top it off, Florence is a walkable city that can be easily explored over a weekend without feeling like you've run out of time upon your return.

You'll want to check out the Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral and the Duomo, visit the Palazzo Vecchio, gaze at masterpieces in the Galleria dell'Accademia and the Galleria degli Uffizi, wander through picturesque neighborhoods like Santa Maria Novella, or enjoy a memorable time in the Boboli Gardens. I've also prepared a guide to help you find accommodations where to stay in Florence!

Another major destination in Italy, Florence is just as romantic as Venice. I suggest you check out two establishments for your stay during your quick getaway.

Miceli - Civico 50: This 3-star establishment offers bright and very simple accommodations with free internet access and a private bathroom. You'll stay just 5 minutes from Florence Cathedral and 10 minutes from the nearest train station. Plus, the Uffizi Gallery is also nearby! Numerous restaurants and cafés will be found in the surroundings. For a night in a double room, plan on spending between $200 and $400 depending on the season.

La Fortezza: This 3-star establishment offers luxury rooms with typically Italian decor, in a residential area. Each room features a private bathroom and television, as well as air conditioning. You'll be about half an hour from the Uffizi Gallery and Ponte Vecchio. A tram stop is also just a 5-minute walk from the hotel. For a night in a standard double room, expect to pay between $90 and $400 depending on the time of year.

Annecy is a true gem, offering a perfect setting to spend a magical moment during a romantic weekend. The Venice of the Alps is a city that is enjoyable to live in, where you can participate in many activities and reconnect as a couple for a weekend.

The charming cobblestone streets of Annecy are particularly pleasant, the atmosphere is really relaxed, and you can discover a beautiful variety of monuments. One spot not to be missed is the Annecy Castle Museum. Located on a hilltop, it offers breathtaking panoramic views.

On the shores of Lake Annecy or on the water aboard a boat, you can spend a special moment with your partner. Boat excursions are very popular in Annecy, and several types of cruises are offered, ranging from a simple water ride to dinner cruises, even to relaxing cruises that include massages and pampering.

Annecy is the ideal city if you are looking for relaxation and tranquility, as you can find a good number of very high-quality spa hotels where you can be pampered. Here are two hotels I recommend for your romantic weekend in this city.

Best Western Hotel International: This establishment has a gym, a hammam, and a jacuzzi. It is located 1.2 miles from Lake Annecy and also close to downtown. It features a restaurant and bar, and all its rooms have a private bathroom and television. For a standard double room, the price for one night is around $110 in low season.

Allobroges Park Hotel: This 3-star hotel offers rooms equipped with a television and private bathroom in downtown, just 10 minutes from the castle and Lake Annecy! It also has a bar that is open 24/7. Additionally, the train station is within walking distance. For a night in an economy double room, expect to pay a minimum of $115 in low season.

The capital of Hungary is a booming city that attracts more and more tourists each year. Known as the 'Pearl of the Danube', Budapest has many assets and is among the best destinations for a romantic weekend.

River cruises, cultural visits, relaxation spots, gastronomy... everything is combined for a truly memorable time with your loved one.

Buda, the old town of Budapest, has an incredible charm. You can discover the Buda Castle (Royal Palace), historic monuments like the statue of Prince Eugene of Savoy or the Fountain of King Matthias, while enjoying breathtaking views over the rest of the city.

A cruise on the Danube will undoubtedly be one of the highlights of your stay; I even recommend doing it twice, once during the day and once after sunset. Also, don't miss the opportunity to explore the Chain Bridge (Széchenyi Bridge), the oldest bridge in the city.

Budapest is also the largest thermal city in the world. Here, thermal baths are a true tradition, with Széchenyi Baths being the largest in the city, the perfect spot to relax and rejuvenate during your romantic weekend in Budapest.

Unsurprisingly, Budapest is one of the most romantic destinations. Below are 2 establishments that I recommend for your romantic weekend.

Dormero Hotel: This hotel features a bar and air-conditioned rooms, and offers free internet access. It is located in the heart of Budapest, providing an ideal location. Numerous tourist attractions are nearby, such as the House of Terror (a museum), St. Stephen's Basilica, and the State Opera House. For a night for two, expect to pay around $95 in low season.

D8 Hotel: Located in the center of Budapest, this establishment offers comfortable rooms as well as a bar. You will also benefit from a private bathroom. Around the hotel, you'll find various tourist attractions, such as St. Stephen's Basilica, the Hungarian State Opera, and Buda Castle. For one night in a standard double room, plan to spend at least $105 in low season.

Amsterdam, the Venice of the North, must also feature on this list of the best destinations for a romantic weekend. The capital of the Netherlands is a charming city where couples from all walks of life stroll hand in hand along the canals and enjoy a unique atmosphere.

Spring (March to May) is the best time for a romantic stay in Amsterdam. The city parks like Vondelpark and the tulip fields nearby bloom, and the weather allows for long outdoor strolls in the streets and along the canals. Don't miss the visit to the Amsterdam Flower Market (Bloemenmarkt), which lines the Singel Canal, the perfect spot to find fresh flowers and bulbs, as well as many typical Dutch souvenirs.

Nearby, you can also explore the Bollenstreek, a region that features vast flower fields and the Keukenhof gardens, where millions of tulips bloom during this time of year.

With 165 canals threading through the capital of the Netherlands, you can discover them through cruises or at your own pace by renting a paddleboat. Amsterdam is a cyclist's paradise, and exploring it by bike is a must; you can even rent a tandem for a more romantic experience. However, in my opinion, the best experience to enjoy together is a nighttime cruise on the canals of Amsterdam.

The Magere Brug (Skinny Bridge), spanning the Amstel River, is one of the city's most famous spots. According to legend, lovers who kiss here will stay together for eternity. If you want to know where to stay in Amsterdam and what to do in Amsterdam during your couples' vacation, here are my guides!

Here are my 2 accommodation recommendations if you decide to go for a weekend in Amsterdam with your loved one.

Hotel Nes: This hotel is located in the heart of Amsterdam, with rooms that all have private bathrooms, televisions, and some even offer canal views. Additionally, around the hotel, you will find plenty of restaurants, and the city's central train station is very close. You can enjoy a night for two for $160 in the low tourist season. Of course, prices will be higher depending on the period and the room you choose.

Best Western Dam Square Inn: Close to this establishment, you will find Dam Square and Amsterdam Central Station. The hotel offers rooms with private bathrooms, and breakfast is included with the reservation. It is located in the heart of historic Amsterdam, just steps from the flower market and several tram lines. If you want to go to Amsterdam in the low season, you can spend one night for two in this hotel for $150.

Seville is probably the most romantic city in Spain and is among the best destinations to choose in Spain for a vacation. With its enviable climate, its colorful houses, its many monuments that are grand symbols of Moorish architecture, and its flamenco tradition, the capital of Andalusia is a city of seduction and passion; a simple walk through its historic center will be enough to convince you.

There are countless activities to do during a weekend as a couple in Seville, besides taking a lovely walk to discover the most beautiful monuments and incredible architectural treasures such as the Seville Cathedral and its Giralda and the Alcázar. You will have the opportunity to explore charming neighborhoods like Santa Cruz, El Arenal, Triana, Alameda, or La Macarena.

Cuisine plays a significant role in Seville's culture. You can enjoy a romantic dinner in one of the many gourmet restaurants in the city, or for a more relaxed experience, visit a tapas bar where you can savor delicious dishes.

To spend a memorable evening, I certainly recommend attending a flamenco show in Seville. This expressive art captures many emotions such as sadness, joy, and love, and originated on the streets of Seville. Throughout the city, you will find tablaos where you can enjoy an authentic flamenco performance. Additionally, I suggest checking out my guide on how to prepare for your visit to Seville for a seamless trip!

If you want to head to the sunshine, Seville is an ideal destination for a romantic weekend. Here are two hotels I recommend you stay in.

Basic Hotel Sevilla Catedral: Just 100 meters from Seville Cathedral and Calle Sierpes shopping street, this hotel offers air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms. Plus, you'll be close to a tram and bus stop, ideal for exploring the city. For a night for two, the price ranges from $65 to $225, depending on the season.

Alcázar Hotel: This hotel is located near the Santa Cruz district and offers spacious rooms with private bathrooms. It also boasts views of the Murillo Gardens. Seville Cathedral and the Giralda are nearby. For a night for two, expect to pay around $95 in low tourist season.

Located in southern Croatia along the Adriatic Sea, Dubrovnik is a city highly favored by tourists and a must-visit during any trip to Croatia. This city, less than 2 hours and 30 minutes from Paris by plane, is also one of the best European cities for a romantic weekend.

This postcard-perfect city boasts an incredible architectural, historical, and cultural heritage influenced by the Romans, Byzantines, and Venetians. It also enjoys a very pleasant Mediterranean climate almost year-round, set against a stunning natural backdrop.

The Pearl of the Adriatic exudes timeless charm and a relaxed, romantic ambiance. Every street in Stari Grad (the fortified old town) invites you to take a romantic stroll. From the old port, you can take a ferry to explore the island of Lokrum, a large natural park known as the 'Emerald Island' and considered one of the most romantic spots in the country.

The cable car is one of the city's big attractions. It takes you to the top of Mount Srđ, which rises nearly 500 meters above the city, allowing for breathtaking panoramic views of Dubrovnik and the surrounding islands. Finally, if you and your partner are fans of Game of Thrones, you will have the chance to visit some of the iconic filming locations from the famous series!

Here are two seaside hotels that offer excellent value for money in Dubrovnik and will be perfect for your romantic weekend.

Hotel Uvala: This 4-star establishment is located by the sea and offers breathtaking views. It has a restaurant as well as a spa and wellness center with a sauna, steam room, jacuzzi, and two pools (indoor and outdoor). Its rooms all have a balcony from which you can enjoy the view. You can book a double room for $68 in the low season!

Art Hotel Dubrovnik: This 3-star hotel is also located by the sea and features a lounge, terrace, and bar, along with a tour desk. Each room has its own bathroom. Nearby, of course, you will find several beaches. For one night in a double room with breakfast included, the minimum price ranges from $110 to $250 depending on the season.

That's all for this article! I think you now have a substantial selection of the best destinations for a romantic weekend