Venice and Paris usually top the list of the most popular Valentine's Day destinations. It's true that these two cities inspire romance, but they're not the only ones! Petit Futé has therefore decided to offer you its own ranking of the best European cities in which to take your loved one for Valentine's Day. Cultural, historic or atypical, they all promise an unforgettable stay, February 14th or not. Forget flowers and paper hearts, there's nothing like a plane ticket to make your other half smile! From France to Italy, via Belgium and Portugal, here are a few ideas for a romantic weekend away!
1. Annecy, " Little Venice of the Alps
Nestled in the heart of the majestic Alps, Annecy shines like a precious pearl thanks to its enchanting surroundings, perfect for a romantic getaway. The old town, nicknamed "Little Venice of the Alps", is lined with canals and colorful houses reflected in the calm waters of the lake. A stroll along its canals, bridges and charming alleyways will reveal the full splendor of this city steeped in history. Nestled in an exceptional landscape between lake and mountains, the town offers a memorable sight that will stay with you forever.
2. Escape to the Jura mountains
Why not consider a weekend getaway to the snow-capped mountains of the Jura, especially in February? Located in eastern France, the Jura is the ideal département for holidaymakers in search of a little peace and quiet. Strolling through its ancient villages is a great way to get away from it all. It's so good to breathe in the fresh air from the top of the Jura mountains! What's more, a variety of activities are on offer, including snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and dog-sledding.
3. Fresh air on Corsica, the "Isle of Beauty
Opting for Corsica to celebrate Valentine's Day has several advantages. Firstly, the island offers an enchanting setting with its small villages, secluded coves and breathtaking mountain scenery, creating a romantic atmosphere ideal for a getaway for two. What's more, Corsica boasts a rich gastronomy, blending Mediterranean and Corsican influences, offering the opportunity to share delicious meals in enchanting settings. The many activities available, such as walks along coastal paths, explorations of picturesque villages or discoveries of historic sites, create unforgettable memories to share as a couple.
4. See life in pink in Toulouse
Nicknamed the "Pink City", Toulouse is an ideal destination for a romantic Valentine's weekend. It's easy to fall in love with this vibrant city in southwest France, renowned for its sublime monuments, lilting accents, generous gastronomy and overflowing cultural offerings. In the evening, treat yourself to a romantic stroll along the quays of the Garonne to enjoy a magnificent sunset. To make sure you don't miss out on the Toulouse experience, read our article on What to do in Toulouse 11 things to see and visit or Visiter Toulouse en 2 jours : que faire en un week-end?
5. A Normandy getaway in Honfleur
Head for one of Normandy's most beautiful towns! Welcome to Honfleur, a hidden gem on France's Normandy coast which, with its authentic natural surroundings, offers the perfect backdrop for a Valentine's Day weekend getaway for lovers. This small port town, nestled on the banks of the Seine estuary, has long inspired artists, writers and travelers. We recommend visiting Honfleur in the early morning or late afternoon, when the town and its Vieux Bassin light up at dusk. A purely romantic experience! What to do in Honfleur? Discover the 17 must-sees!
6. Verona, city of lovers
If Verona is one ofItaly's most visited cities, it's not just for its strategic position between Milan and Venice. The city's reputation is further enhanced by Shakespeare's two lovers: Romeo and Juliet. Indeed, it's here that the action of the play takes place, and every year, lovers come to discover the famous balcony of Juliet's house, whose walls are covered with declarations of love.
7. Saint-Malo, Brittany at its heart
There's no need to travel miles for a romantic weekend in Brittany, which promises a change of scenery and beauty! Saint-Malo, a former corsair stronghold, has earned its reputation as the pearl of the Emerald Coast. Surrounded by ramparts, the city can be explored along its cobbled streets and beaches. For a breathtaking view, we recommend climbing to the top of the Grand Bé, where Chateaubriand, the "enfant du pays", is laid to rest. Don't forget to read our dedicated article "What to do in Saint-Malo? Les 15 incontournables".
8. Bruges, the Venice of the North
We promised we wouldn't talk about Venice, but we can't escape the canals! For that, we're heading north to Bruges in Belgium. Its undeniable charm offers a real trip back in time, in a flamboyant 14th-century setting. A must for any Valentine's weekend is a tour of the narrow streets in a horse-drawn carriage. Touristy, yes, but so romantic! Bonus: Bruges is the capital of chocolate.
9. Little-known Bled
Imagine a splendid lake overlooked by a cliff-side castle, where you can cruise around in a pletna, the local gondola... This fairytale setting can be found in Bled, Slovenia. And not to detract from the picture-postcard scenery, the Julian Alps form a sumptuous backdrop. The little island in the middle of the lake is one of the town's main attractions, and can be reached by swimming or pletna to visit its charming little church.
10. Neuschwanstein, a real fairy tale
A Valentine's Day in Neuschwanstein is guaranteed to be a fairytale. This must-see town in Bavaria is home to a majestic castle that served as the model for Sleeping Beauty's home in Disneyland Paris. The famous Disney symbol we all know was also inspired by it. It's the perfect place to become a prince or princess for a day! Built between 1869 and 1886, it is the result of the architectural follies of Louis II, who wanted to turn it into an earthly refuge where art and excess would blend to perfection.
11. Salzburg, a cultural weekend
Salzburg is one of Austria's top destinations. Often overshadowed by Vienna, the city nevertheless has much to offer, not least its interesting history: Salzburg was ruled by prince-archbishops until the 19th century, and as a result boasts an impressive architectural and religious heritage, so much so that it is sometimes nicknamed the Rome of the North. It also owes its fame to Mozart, who was born here in 1756. His birthplace can still be visited today.
12. Prague, a charming destination
Prague is ideal for a romantic getaway. A stroll along the Charles Bridge at suns et will give you the pulse of this city, where romance is around every corner! After admiring the movement of the astronomical clock, head to the Malá Strana district and the island of Kampa for a moment out of time. In February, temperatures could well be very low, so take the opportunity to warm up in one of the many traditional cafés! What to do in Prague? Discover the 17 must-sees!
14. Tallinn, a capital to discover
The capital of Estonia, Tallinn is one of Europe's oldest fortified cities. Its upper part, on the Toompea hill, is the former city of the princes. It's a succession of cobbled streets, lined with buildings that bear witness to the various powers that have dominated Tallinn over the centuries: from the Danes to the Germans and the Russians. The lower part, meanwhile, is packed with cafés and restaurants, especially around Place Raekoja.
15. Sintra, a royal destination
Not far from Lisbon, Sintra is Portugal's second most populous city. From Lord Byron to Portuguese kings, many have succumbed to its unique charm. Nature seems to have done its utmost to create a green setting for its architectural beauties. The Pena Palace impresses with its extravagant colors and its blend of Baroque, Moorish, Manueline and Renaissance styles. A veritable fairytale castle, it is said to have inspired Walt Disney.
