There’s just something about Europe. Maybe it’s the food, maybe the scenery, the culture, the mix of languages? Whatever it is, it makes for a romantic weekend. And what makes a weekend romantic? It’s not just the sunsets and candlelit dinners – though those certainly help- but the sense of escapism, the feeling of leaving the mundane behind. Europe is brimming with places that can do just that, where romance is practically baked into every cobblestone, washed into every grain of sand. Looking for somewhere special to surprise your love? Look no further.
Santorini, Greece: Sunsets to Stop Time
For many Europeans, the Greek islands are the go-to for summer holidaying, but for Americans, they have less of a pull, for some reason. Perhaps it’s the flight times or because we don’t realise how truly stunning they are. If you’re after quintessential white-washed walls and brilliant blue tiles then Santorini is the obvious choice. This stunning island is an assault on the senses (in the best way possible
)! Take a wander hand in hand through Oia. Explore the tiny alleys, air full of gently frying garlic and oregano. Lounge on a cliffside terrace, delicately sparkling Assyrtiko in hand, views so spectacular I can’t adequately describe them.
For the evening? Head to Ammoudi Bay. Take a picnic (or treat yourself to a beach barbecue off one of the local fishing boats), then settle in for the sunset. On the best days, the sky almost explodes into shades of pink and orange. Moments like this are meant to be savoured, and who better to savour them with than the love of your life?
Monte Carlo, Monaco: Glamour and Games
Fancy trading the windswept terraces of Santorini for something with a splash of more luxury? It doesn’t get more luxurious than Monte Carlo. This tiny principality practically glows with opulence – from its superyachts to its designer boutiques. And that’s not to say it doesn’t have its fair share of natural beauty either, the Casino de Monte Carlo perches high on a cliff face overlooking the Mediterranean. It’s a venue so iconic it’s been immortalized in Bond films, and a spectacular view you’ll never forget.
While the view from the casino grounds is spectacular, the one you’ll find inside is something to behold. From glistening chandeliers to drapes so heavy you couldn’t lift them, no expense was spared in creating this palace of pleasures. If online slots are your usual game of choice then you might be a little surprised to find that the Casino de Monte Carlo is far more focused on table games. There are still some slot machines to be found, but far fewer than you’d find in any online catalogue! Instead, consider brushing up on how roulette, or blackjack works and joining in at one of the historical tables. Win or lose, it’ll be a vacation to remember.
Bruges, Belgium: Chocolate, Canals, and Endless Charm
Forget the chaos of ‘In Bruges’ and instead take it from me, if ever a city looked like it was designed for romance, it’s Bruges. Its cobbled streets and medieval architecture err just on the right side of ‘toy town’. It’s truly so picturesque that it feels like it might have been built for tourists – but incredibly, that isn’t the case. Bruges is, and always has been, just this beautiful. It’s enough to inspire the writers, painters, and poets among us.
Viewing the tiny town from the canal is the best way to start. You’ll find out the city’s secrets, spot Bruge’s most photographed dog (he has his canalside window spot) and get to enjoy sitting arm-in-arm with your partner. Next, head to the main square via horse-drawn carriage and ask to be set down by the market. Chocolatiers hold their stalls here and there are true delights to be found. Grab a box of almost too-pretty-to-eat pralines to take home. Then, find yourself a local beer. There are dozens of quaint bars around here and many of them serve up housemade fries and mussels alongside a locally brewed pint. Perfection.
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