The Most Romantic Travel Experiences In Europe

There’s not much time before Valentine’s Day. So, if you haven’t found a gift yet, it’s time to start shopping. Or, why not take a trip instead? Embrace your inner Romeo and plan a last-minute getaway to an exotic destination where you can spend some quality time with a loved one. And hotels (plus a train) across Europe are ready to make it the most romantic experience ever. Here are eight amazing options.

Spend The Night In A Castle In Scotland

Make your partner feel like a king or queen this Valentine’s Day with a stay in a stunning castle in the Scottish Highlands called Fife Arms. While there, take in an original Picasso reigning in the drawing-room, sleep on a Glencraft mattress (fit for the royal family), and participate in romantic outdoor adventures like fly fishing on The Dee River. You can also tour the historic house that Robert Louis Stevenson occupied while writing Treasure Island and design your own tartan to remember the enchanting getaway. As far as which rooms to stay in, opt for one of the Royal Suites that actually houses objects that once belonged to historic royals. 

Travel In A Lavish Train Across Europe 

Why visit just one country in Europe when you can traverse a few in the most nostalgic and romantic ways? A 1920s Art Deco icon, Belmond Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, is like stepping back in time to the golden age of travel. The restored vintage carriages criss-cross through historic cities including Paris, Venice, Prague, Vienna, and Budapest while you lounge in a luxe suite. You’ll watch the Italian lakes and snowy Swiss mountains pass you by while lounging in your double bed and enjoying free-flowing Champagne.

Have A Private Bond Jewelry Showing In London 

Located just opposite Kensington Palace with views across Kensington Gardens, five-star The Milestone Hotel & Residences offers the unique “From Russia with Love” package. In partnership with Linda Hugo from Beyond Curated and Richard Bagnold, the evening will begin with a Taittinger Champagne and canape reception before enjoying private jewelry showing with Bond jeweler Sophie Harley. Later, you will meet former Bond girl, Valerie Leon, who will be sharing her favorite Bond anecdotes before having a six-course Bond-themed meal. In the morning, enjoy breakfast in bed before taking a stroll through the Palace Gardens.

Taste Custom Chocolate In Paris

Paris is always a good idea…especially for Valentine’s Day. And at Le Bristol Paris you can book the “Romance in Paris” package. It includes a one-night stay complete with in-suite Champagne, scattered rose petals, and breakfast. Over Valentine’s Day, you can go behind-the-scenes visit to the chocolate factory, where you can try your hand at crafting the edible delicacies themselves. 

Have A Private Dinner In A Lake Como Villa

Say “ti amo” with a breathtaking villa in Lake Como. You’ll be swept away by the mountain views and royalty-like Villa Atia from onefinestay. You’ll have a 24/7 concierge team on call to help curate a romantic trip. Plan a traditional Italian meal for dinner cooked in your dining room, deliver groceries for your private picnic at the water, or ask for a bespoke itinerary for the city catered precisely to how you want to experience the stunning destination. Of course, don’t forget to take boat rides to a walk hand-in-hand along Menaggio’s Lakeshore Promenade.

Stay On A Heart-Shaped Peninsula In Croatia

Istria, Croatia, is a tiny heart-shaped peninsula that offers many romantic places, beautiful sunsets, charming medieval towns, hidden old households, and fairy-tale locations along the Adriatic Sea. It’s also an incredible off-the-beaten-path foodie destination. While there, stay at the lighthouse of Cape Marlera, which was built in 1875. Today is a picturesque villa, which rises lonely on the rock near the sea, creating with its white walls a beautiful contrast with the deep blue sea and the endless blue sky.            

Relive A Historic Love Story in Copenhagen

The Hotel d’Angleterre in Copenhagen features fairy-tale-like design and world-class service (Hans Christian Andersen himself was a recurring guest). In fact, the hotel itself is the birthchild of a love story. Jean Marchal and Maria Coppy joined forces romantically and professionally in 1755 to establish a restaurant, Marchal, which later grew into the Hotel d’Angleterre.​ Marchal is still open to this day and has one Michelin star. Upon arrival, couples are greeted with roses and Champagne, after which the hotel’s Amazing Space spa is ready to pamper the couple with a massage, romantic spa bath, fresh fruit, and Champagne cocktails. 

Zen Out In The Bavarian Alps

Does it get any better than a wellness-themed getaway in a fairy tale setting? Schloss Elmau is situated among authentic Bavarian villages and the fairy tale castles of King Ludwig II. And while there, you can unwind at one of the most luxurious spa resorts in the world. There are actually six separate spas, featuring everything from ancient Chinese medicine and a traditional hammam to the most cutting-edge treatments. Plus, if you’re itching to get outside, use the ski service to take a lesson with a private instructor at some of the best slopes in the region.