Honeymoon destinations in Europe: the pick of the best
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A honeymoon is a once-in-a-lifetime holiday, so you’ll want to make it perfect. While many couples book paradise islands in the Indian Ocean such as the Maldives for their slices of paradise, you don’t need to fly half way across the world to find beautiful spots for your dream holiday.
Some of the most beautiful and romantic places in the world can be found in the countries of Europe, which has more than its fair share of cities with beautiful architecture and culture as well as beautiful coastlines and secluded beaches. Italy, Austria, Greece and Malta are perfect for luxurious, romantic holidays (and they’re a lot less expensive to travel to too – perfect if you have a budget you’re hoping to stick to).
Croatia’s Dalmatian coast is also a definite contender when it comes to finding places of sheer beauty at reasonable prices (Brad Pitt fell in love with this region when he visited, and he even decided to invest in a holiday home with Angelina in Istria – so it must be pretty special!). We’ve picked our ten favourite romantic spots in Europe for honeymooners, all famed for their beauty, tranquility, service and food. Check these out and see if you agree – and don’t forget to tell us your top tips for honeymoon destinations in Europe in the comments below!
Europe’s Top 10 Honeymoon Destinations
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The Amalfi coast, Italy
The Amalfi Coast (Costiera Amalfitana) is known to be one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in the world, which is why thousands of couples visit every year. Although Positano and Amalfi are the main allure for tourists, couples seeking extra seclusion could explore Salerno, a beautiful old town. An afternoon walk in the sunshine through Salerno’s winding medieval streets, finished off with a glass of Limoncello (Italy’s famous lemon liqueur) in a quaint cafe is enough to make anyone fall in love. Tip: The best time to visit the Amalfi Coast is in spring or early autumn, (summer can be very crowded).
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An Irish castle
Ireland’s largest five-star resort outside of Dublin, 17th century Dromoland Castle, is perfect for romantics. Book yourself into the secluded cottage inside the walls of Dromoland castle and have a honeymoon fit for royalty. ‘Castle Keep Cottage’ is luxurious in every sense of the word: there’s a jacuzzi, and the master bedroom overlooks beautiful 17th-century gardens and Lough Dromoland. Think Irish heirlooms chandeliers, hand-carved paneling, oil paintings, custom-made carpets and draperies. By day, live like kings and queens and wander through the charming gardens and surroundings, or make use of the full-service health spa and beauty salon. By night dine like royalty in the castle’s five-star award-winning restaurant, the Earl of Thomond,then retreat back to your private space with a bottle of bubbly. Tip: If you can’t afford the cottage (or it’s fully booked on your dates), the rooms in the club wing of the castle (complete with oversized windows and nine-foot ceiling) are also very grand, and have sumptuous upholstery and furnishings.
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Paris (of course)
Paris has a romantic ambiance that effortlessly draws couples from across the world to the city to experience its magic. The food is sumptuous, the art collections superb, the wine impeccable, and the city as a whole unforgettable. The city’s charms seem endless, and for many lovers worldwide, there is no place better to come to celebrate romance than Paris.
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Florence, Italy
If you and your other half love all things arty then think no further about your ideal honeymoon location. The works of Michelangelo and Botticelli, combined with some of the most beautiful architecture in Europe (think of all those bridges and cathedrals), are best appreciated with your lover at your side. Sharing a cone of gelato whilst you window-shop and stroll along Medieval Veccio bridge is also a special experience. Florence has some world-class cuisine and wine to offer newlyweds, and the city’s hotels are some of the best in Europe, especially around the ‘Tournabuoni’ area, and it’s a general rule that you get what you pay for. Tip: Many people underestimate how tricky navigating your way around Florence is, so invest in a map.
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Vienna, Austria
Vienna is like a romantic city that you might read about in fairytales. Horse-drawn carriages are ready to collect you on Stephansplatz, Albertinaplatz and in front of the Hofburg, to take you for an evening spin around the stunning city. You’ll be surrounded by the romantic classical music of Mozart, and will be in awe of the romantic splendour surrounding you. From delightful cobbled streets to opulent coffee shops, fully furnished with chandeliers, everything about Vienna breathes class. Marvel at the regal splendour of Vienna’s palaces, spend an evening at the opera or ballet, the ‘Staatsoper’ (Vienna state opera), gazing down at the world-famous Vienna Philharmonic in the pit below.
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The Dalmatian Islands, Croatia
Croatia’s Dalmatian islands are perfect for romance. They’re only accessible by water, which simply ads to the charm, and the feeling of seclusion. When you pull into the ancient port on arrival, the sight of palm trees against a backdrop of rolling hills will stay with you for a lifetime. Numerous celebrities have taken their holidays here, including Brad Pit who fell in love with the place, and Steven Spielberg, who called Hvar the most beautiful island in the world! For architectural beauty and chic bars, follow suit, and head to Hvar Town, where you can marvel at Gothic palaces and chapels, whilst enjoying some mouth watering Mediterranean cuisine. Water taxis are always ready and waiting to whisk you off to an idyllic offshore islet, for some privacy and honeymoon- style-relaxation. Tip: If you are having your honeymoon on the mainland, Bol’s Golden Cape (or Zlatni Rat Beach) is a contender for the most beautiful beach in Croatia, and is very easy to get to. It boasts a V-shaped stretch of white sand and warm azure waters.
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