What makes a city ‘romantic’? In this article, we aren’t talking about dream honeymoon destinations. No. We’re discussing cities that celebrate love and beauty. Some of these cities are tough to visit, whilst others are easier. View this blog post as places that are perfect locations for romantic novels or films. We also recommend a bit of imagination!
Note: This list edges towards historical cities. They tend to have alot of romance!
Venice, Italy
Venice is an obvious pick. From visiting the Doge’s palace to taking a gondola ride through the canals, Venice is an ideal city to get lost in. Although it’s certainly touristy and expensive, Venice is still beautiful. There are little bridges connecting each island, and St. Mark’s Square is beautiful at night. Spend a day in Burano, and pick up some Venetician lace. Or enjoy Torcello. Either way, Venice is a romantic destination.
Unlike some of the choices on this list, Venice is a clear-cut choice for the ‘most romantic cities in the world.’ However, once you enter St. Mark’s Basillica, you’ll understand what all the fuss is about.
Kyoto, Japan
Japan is associated with science fiction, thanks to high-tech neon cities like Tokyo and Osaka. However, Japan is a place of great history and discovery. That’s why Kyoto is so beautiful. From the Cherry Blossoms in spring to the gold-coloured temples, Kyoto provokes the imagination. It’s a place of beauty and splendour. You can enjoy the well-kept gardens, the clothing of geishas and the imperial palaces of the former Japanese capital.
Perhaps you’d like to share those precious moments with someone.
Tangier, Morocco
A gateway between Africa and Europe. Tangier is home to pastel coloured houses, sitting on a hillside. It’s also the summer site of the Moroccan Royal Residence since 1962. With sea-side views and alleyways to wander in, Tangier is a hidden delight in North Africa. Visit the Kasbah Museum, if you can. The whitewashed walls conjure up tales of fantasy.
The Caves of Hercules are also spectacular, as are the beaches. For those interested in a cultural location, we recommend the American Legation.
Muscat, Oman
Muscat is the largest city and capital of Oman, a less travelled country in the Middle East. In this port capital, you’ll see mosques, palaces and museums. Best of all, you’ll venture in a place that is not spoiled by overtourism. The seafood is terrific, as are the soaks. Witness the Hajar Mountains, which are sure to inspire the inner artist.
Muscat isn’t flashy: this is no Dubai. However, Oman’s capital offers something else, and maybe, something better.
Lima, Peru
South America has many amazing destinations. From the colourful Bueonos Aires to the musical Santiago, this continent is often a highlight for many travellers. However, for a romantic city, we’ve picked Lima. Located in Peru, Lima has a rich history and a bustling metropolis. The Plaza De Armas De Lima is scenic, and the cathedral and basillica are not to be missed.
You can also see a pre-Incan pyramid. For those interested in political history, the Government Palace of Peru is also beautiful. Lima has many Spanish colonial buildings, and is home to the Museo Larco collection. Because of that, Lima is a must-visit. And also, a great opportunity to learn South American history.
Maui, The United States of America
Located in sunny Hawaii, Maui is frequently visited from Americans and international travellers. And for a good reason. Maui is a fantastic island in Hawaii. Enjoy the national parks and beaches, and take a visit to the volcanic Haleakala. Be thrilled by the waterfalls of Ohe’o Gulch.
Although this choice is limited to Maui, see the rest of Hawaii. Lay back and enjoy the passing time with sunshine and tropical Mai Tais. It’s one of the best ways to spend your time.
Strasbourg, France
France is clearly romantic. However, Strasbourg is terrific. The Notre-Dame with its astronomical clock is a must-see, as is the Palais Rohan. Nearby Strasbourg, are little, cute towns with Germanic influences. Of course, we are discussing Colmar, which belongs on any list of European destinations. And Riquewihr. They are especially splendid in spring, but they are also known for Christmas markets.
Strasbourg is a quick train ride away from Heidelberg, a German town worth seeing. If anything, explore the gorgeous Alsace.
Jaipur, India
The capital of Rajasthan is often called ‘the pink city.’ With palaces and museums, Jaipur is a visual delight. As you explore this city, you’ll notice little stories nestled in every corner. That’s because Jaipur is full of surprises. Study the rule of Sawai Ram Singh, who painted the city pink for a grand welcome of Prince Edward, the Prince of Wales. For those interested in astronomy (stars are romantic), the observatory, Jantar Mantar, is a must.
Expect an assault on all five senses, as Jaipur is unforgettable.
Luxor, Egypt
Of course, The Nile River is already romantic. But Luxor is home to more than that. Here, you’ll find the royal tombs. From The Valley of the Kings to the Valley of the Queens, Luxor offers any traveller plenty of history. The Karnak Temple is also spectacular. Be warned, though. Temperatures are blazing hot, yet it’s the perfect weather for an Egypt adventure.
Before you visit Luxor, we recommend reading books on Egyptology.
Cappadocia, Turkey
Cappadocia is a region, not a city. In this Turkish city, you’ll see fairytale chimneys, hot air balloons, castles, and cone shaped formations. The Kaymakli underground city dates back centuries, and you can visit Pasabag, the Monks Valley. Shop for pottery and ceramics in Avanos. Overall, Cappadocia offers plenty. But it’s unlike anywhere else.
Because of that, Cappadocia is a must-see.
St. Petersburg, Russia
The Hermitage. Church of Our Savior on Spilled Blood. Peterhof. St. Isaac’s Cathedral. St. Petersburg is a legendary city, and for a good reason. It’s home to many historical sites, and in summer, hosts the ‘white nights.’ However, if you go in winter, you’ll see (and feel) snow falling down. St Petersburg is also a literary capital: from Dostoyevsky’s Notes From The Underground to Pushkin’s The Queen of Spades.
When people think of romantic cities in Europe, they think of Paris. And that makes sense: The Eiffel tower is legendary, as is the Sainte-Chapelle. However, St. Petersburg is a crown jewel in the world, and like Russia, offers plenty.
St. Petersburg could be the most ‘literary’ city in the world. Enjoy the magic here, as experiences like Cappadocia are rare.
Port Arthur, Australia
Port Arthur is not a city. It’s a town and historic site in Tasmania, the most southern state in Australia. Around December and January, you’ll discover beautiful lavender farms. You can also take day cruises and journeys to see dolphins and birds. Port Arthur is terrific. There’s caves, ghost tours, and even an old prison. Whilst it’s certainly a capstone of the Australian Gothic, it’s an ideal romantic destination for those who like macabre beauty with history.
Even if your loved one is not swooned, you’ll probably gain inspiration for a future bestseller.
What are some other romantic cities in the world? Comment below.
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Apparently I’m in a minority, but I hate Venice. Bad vibe, hard to explain. It’s like it’s not living, nor dead for long enough to be an interesting skeleton, but in that awkward phase of being a rotten corpse.
Cheers.
I do like Venice, but I think Florence is the best Italian city. Like you, its hard to explain!