We love a good city break. Not only can they be really affordable and accessible, you can often experience the beating heart of a country. From capital cities like Madrid and Berlin, to the whimsical charm of Krakow and Prague, city breaks come with all of the exploring, arts and culture, nights out and sightseeing you could wish for.
If you’re wondering where to go next, take a look through our list of best romantic city breaks for couples and get planning your ultimate dream trip.
The Best European City Breaks
Reykjavik
Why go? Reykjavik is one of the most popular destinations in Europe – if not the world – right now. What makes it among the best city breaks for couples is a vibrant nightlife scene combined with stunning scenery – Reykjavik is surrounded by volcanic terrain and when skies are clear the sunsets are spectacular. It’s a compact city so most areas are within walking distance. Head for the main street of Laugavegur which is packed with shops and bars, and for accommodation, we can highly recommend the Reykjavik Centrum Hotel for couples planning a visit to the city.
Paris
Why go? No shortlist of the best city break for couples would surely be complete without the inclusion of Paris. The French capital carries an air of romance which is fully deserved and still authentic. Yes, of course you’ll encounter plenty of tourists at the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe – definitely still musts to visit if you haven’t been before – but there’s history and culture down every street in Paris. There are plenty of restaurants, cafes, parks and boutique shops, so sample as many as you can! The Montmarte has amazing views over the city, The Louvre is one of the world’s finest and largest museums, and the Parc des Buttes-Chaumont spreads over 25 acres.
Rome
Why go? Chaotic, bustling and completely fascinating, Rome is a city like no other and an obvious nomination as one of the best city breaks for couples. This is the beating heart of Italy, home to the Pantheon, Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, St Peter’s Basilica, Borghese Gallery, Palatine Hill and countless other ancient ruins and architectural masterpieces. There’s so much to see and experience that you’ll need regular refuelling; fortunately, Rome does food extremely well! You might find the best restaurants – and prices – outside of the busy tourist areas. After a heavy and indulgent lunch, stretch your legs in one of the city’s beautiful parks and gardens.
Venice
Why go? Sticking with Italy, travel around 350 miles further north and you’ll reach Venice, right on the east of the country. This is a city that simply must be visited at least once in a lifetime. It’s a magical place where cars are replaced by gondolas and waterbuses, and though it unsurprisingly gets busy at peak times, late winter and early spring is generally much quieter. Obviously, a gondola ride is a must but you should also try to catch an opera at La Fenice as well as visit the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, the modern art museum located on the Grand Canal. The romance in the Venetian air makes it among the best city breaks for young couples.
Barcelona
Why go? Barcelona is a superb location, a magnificent combination of city break and beach holiday. The streets of this Spanish city – officially part of Catalonia – are full of tapas bars, cafes, and eye-catching buildings bearing the influence of the visionary architect Antoni Gaudi. The stunning Roman Catholic Church Sagrada Familia is definitely not to be missed! Barcelona also has several excellent beaches and botanical gardens, a Gothic Quarter, a picturesque marina in the shape of Port Olimpic and arguably the world’s most famous football club. No wonder it’s considered one of the best city breaks for couples!