Valentines Day Ideas: Best Cities to Wake Up in on February 14th

If you want to start your Valentine’s Day with a great view of an urban skyline, here are the top 20 places for you to wake up this Friday. There’s nothing more romantic than far-reaching views from your hotel window, inspiring you to go out and explore what a city has to offer. Here are our Valentines Day ideas:

PARIS

The Sacre Coeur is looking great from any angle you choose.

Paris is notably the city of love.  Nothing could be more romantic than opening the curtains to reveal a prestigious landmark such as the Eiffel Tower or Montmartre.  If you prefer something a little more understated, take a wander as there are beautiful buildings on almost every street in Paris. For the most breath-taking panorama of the city, head to Montmartre. Follow this with lunch in one of the many small cafés for a perfect start to your Valentine’s Day.

BARCELONA

Barcelona is the perfect destination for a weekend break. With stunning sights in the city center such as the Sagrada Família, teamed with crystal waters by the coast there really is something for everyone. To make the most of your trip use the hop-on-hop-off bus tours, they will take you to everything you need to see. Ensure you stop off at Mt. Tibidabo for amazing views and the Boqueria food market to tantalize your taste buds!

MADRID

The most stunning areas of Madrid are actually gardens. For a city, this may sound unusual, but a stroll through the Buen Retiro Park or the Royal Botanical Garden provides stunning scenery. For a bird’s eye view, cable cars are a must. After enjoying a few lunchtime drinks and some tasty tapas, head for the Palacio Royal and explore the 1000’s of lavish rooms. In the evening book yourself into a flamenco show; the passion involved in this traditional dance is intoxicating.

BERLIN

Berlin’s skyline

Berlin is the perfect place for a romantic getaway. Even in Winter Berlin is a great place to be. It is packed with history which has resulted in a wide array of architecture. The Brandenburg Gate is one of the most well-known landmarks. If you venture past the gate you will often find stalls selling beers and traditional German foods; a perfect place to take a break and enjoy the view. The Berlin Wall is also a must-see, along with the stunning Charlottenburg Palace. Grab a hot drink and huddle together as you soak up the scenery!

LONDON

If you can find a hotel room on a high floor, you are almost guaranteed a great view of London. On a brisk February morning, the rising sun bounces off the glossy high-rise buildings such as The Shard. After breakfast why not hop on a speed boat down the Thames, wander around London Zoo or find a rare cuisine to try?  With such an eclectic mix of cultures, there is authentic cuisine on offer from all corners of the world in the UK capital.

ROME

Rome boasts some of the most popular sights in Europe. The Vatican City, Colosseum, and Trevi Fountain are all stunning landmarks that typically attract millions of tourists each year and thousands of lovebirds looking forward to celebrating a special occasion. By the way, here’s a great site to find 20th wedding anniversary gift ideas.

It is estimated that 3,000 Euros are thrown into the Trevi Fountain every day, but February is the perfect time to visit and avoid the queues.  Along with the delights of the center, the best view in Rome has to be the Aventine Hole on the Aventine Hill. This keyhole perfectly frames the dome of St Peter’s and makes for a very romantic stroll. 

AMSTERDAM

The most romantic experiences are certainly the most spontaneous and unexpected ones. Amsterdam has some phenomenal scenery; why not hop on a boat ride or hire a tandem bike for a slightly different perspective? For a romantic setting, visit one of the terraces or cocktail bars of the InterContinental Hotels there. As most of the city is below sea level, there are not many opportunities for a bird’s-eye view. Treat yourself to a cocktail and enjoy the best of the best.

NEW YORK

With the most famous skyline in the world, you have to get up high to appreciate the wonder that is NYC. The Empire State Building Observatory is an absolute gem, especially at sunset. Buy express tickets to avoid the queues. Central Park is arguably the best backdrop for ice skating. After skating a few laps hand in hand indulge in one of the local delis; the pastrami is delicious. A romantic boat trip gives the best panoramic views of the city; you can also get up close to the Statue of Liberty. Or you can simply book a hotel with a rooftop pool to wow your date.

ISTANBUL

Istanbul lies on the stunning Bosphorus Strait and is the frontier between the eastern and western worlds. Half of the city lies in Europe, the other half in Asia. The most romantic way to view the city is certainly from a boat; watching the sunset and the landmarks light up is an amazing sight. On land, head to the Galata Tower for spectacular views of the city, and be sure to grab a mezze for lunch in order to sample the best of Turkish cuisine.

PRAGUE

Prague can certainly give Paris a run for its money. Petřín Park will be filled with cherry blossoms in February; you can take a walk on its slopes or take a picnic if the weather is favorable. Legend has it that love confirmed here with a kiss lasts forever.  The view from Prague Castle is also stunning. Take a romantic stroll up the hill, stopping halfway up for a warming hot chocolate and a delicious slice of apple strudel. By night, hop on one of the many river cruises to see another aspect of this charming city.

DUBLIN

Dublin is a charismatic city. You can sense the atmosphere as soon as you walk into a bar or pub, but there is even more to the city than Guinness and Whiskey. If you are a film fanatic perhaps a glimpse of a celeb or two could excite you. The Jameson Dublin International Film Festival is on this Valentine’s Weekend. Alternatively, head to Trinity College or St. Stephens Green for a romantic stroll. In the evening the Ha’penny Bridge is the most romantic place in town. The soft glow of the streetlights and the serenity of its location set off the beauty of the bridge.

VIENNA

Vienna has many romantic aspects, especially in spring. The chestnut tree blossom and the fragrance of lilac are prevalent in the many parks and gardens.  A boat ride on the Danube by day is historical and charming, whilst the night rides are certainly the most romantic. The boats are heated so you can comfortably enjoy the scenery even in February. The Vienna State Opera is world-renowned and if you are not watching a performance the building is still worth exploring. The baroque-style Schönbrunn Palace is equally stunning.

MUNICH

Munich is a great destination for a weekend away. During your stay, you must visit the Hofbräuhaus, run by one of the local breweries. Here you can try some local beers, enjoy traditional cuisine and sing along to the infectious songs of the resident Oompah band.  In the town center, you will also find the famous Glockenspiel. Situated on the tower of the New Town Hall, crowds gather every day at 11 am to hear the Glockenspiel chime and watch the characters act out Bavarian events. Munich is also very green; the best breath of fresh air is in the Englischer Garten. Larger than Central Park you can stroll around, have a romantic boat trip or even hire a bike.

WARSAW

Warsaw is a perfect blend of old and new. The immense Palace of Culture and Science is the tallest building in Poland. Head to the 30^th floor for the highest viewing platform in Warsaw, where you will find outstanding panoramic views of the city. On the other side of the river is the National Stadium, famously used in Euro 2012. The views from the bridges are far-reaching and breathtaking.  The Old Town is stunning. It is packed with colorful, exciting buildings and atmospheric squares. Experience local cuisine at its finest at one of the many restaurants and escape the hustle and bustle of central city life.

KIEV

Kiev is one of Europe’s most beautiful cities. The most romantic place is aptly named Lover’s Bridge. Thousands of ribbons and locks are attached to the bridge, adorned with the names of the couple symbolizing that they will be together forever. It also is a stunning location and worth a visit, with or without your own lock! After a romantic stroll through Mariyinsky Park, which has a miniature version of Versailles, watch the sunset from one of the many terrace bars. The stunning golden domes of the St. Sophia Cathedral are enhanced by the soft lighting in the evenings.

BUDAPEST

Lightbulbs in one of the main Budapest’s bridges

Budapest is the Paris of Eastern Europe. Its elegant architecture and charming city life make it a pleasure to visit. For the best views of the city visit the Fisherman’s Bastion in the Castle Quarter. Nearby you will find a wine cellar with a tasting tour and an 18th-century café, this all makes for a perfect Valentine’s morning. In the evening a romantic dinner cruise will show you the city sights whilst you enjoy a glass of bubbly and sample traditional cuisine. For the best panorama head to the Budapest Citadel on Gellert Hill.

ST. PETERSBURG

Wrap up warm as St. Petersburg will be chilly in February. But the crisp winter air only makes the colorful attractions more beautiful. Newlyweds from all over the world head here for a honeymoon, and who can blame them. The Potseluyev Most Bridge (Bridge of Kisses) is the most romantic location in the city. Those who kiss here will enjoy true love and happiness.  St. Petersburg boasts many ice rinks so why not warm up and enjoy the scenery from the open-air Yelagin Island rink.  It is even open at night for seasoned romantics.

MOSCOW

Your first stop has to be the impressive Kremlin, get there early to avoid the queues and ensure you get a ticket for the Armoury where the world-renowned Fabergé Eggs are on display. Red Square is also worth a visit both during the day and in the evening.  To get a bird’s eye view of the city, head to the Hotel Peking.  Enjoy a drink at the Time Out Bar for panoramic views from all four sides. The Sanduny Baths offer sauna or steam baths, so enjoy a spot of pampering before indulging in some luxurious teas and snacks.

BRUSSELS

With famous chocolate, cuisine and scenic walks Brussels is an obvious romantic choice for a mini-break. A great start to the day would be at the Chocolate museum. See how it is made, sample some little drops of heaven, and treat yourself in the shop. Wander through the scenic streets, enjoy the architecture and enjoy some local Moules Frites (Mussels and chips) for lunch. For a romantic atmosphere head to L’Aarchiduc. A 1930’s style bar, with velvet furnishings and a piano, is a quaint place to warm up and enjoy a few cocktails.

BUCHAREST

Bucharest downtown

Bucharest is a vibrant modern city, perfect for young lovers. It boasts an array of eateries and bars and is extremely proud of its local beer.  The finest building in the city is the Romanian Atheneum. This neoclassical concert hall is located on stunning grounds, making it perfect for strolling around or enjoying a picnic. The first place a local would take you would be the Cişmigiu Gardens for a boat ride followed by one of the many pretzel shops. Head to the Old City in the evening for delicious, yet not overpriced local food.

For more ideas on great destinations where to spend Valentine’s day, read about the pros and cons of traveling with your partner, head to a couples travel blog or continue browsing articles around here.

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