The best European honeymoon destinations offer a mixture of adventure and romance. Site seeing and museum hopping should be met with relaxation and the enjoyment of good food. Luckily, Europe is home to some of the best cities for newlyweds. The rich history and romantic architecture provide the perfect backdrop for any honeymoon. And for couples on a budget, Europe offers affordable travel by train between cities. So whether you are looking to stay in one city for a whole week or get a taste of multiple destinations, Europe is a great option for a honeymoon.
Paris is known as the City of Love, making it an obvious choice for a romantic honeymoon. The Louvre is the world's largest art museum and is home to some of the most recognizable art in history such as the Mona Lisa. Shop in the luxury stores along the Champs-Élysées before taking a guided tour of the Arc de Triomphe. After soaking in the culture and history of Paris, pack a picnic and sit on the grass with your love beside the Eiffel Tower. As the sun goes down, the twinkling lights of the tower will provide an irreplaceable memory of your honeymoon.
The perfect way to combine adventure with relaxation on your honeymoon is with a trip to Greece. Fly into Athens and spend a night or two in the capital city. Athens is home to the ancient ruins of the Parthenon and the Acropolis. Then jump on a short flight to the island of Santorini. The crystal blue water is perfect for snorkeling and looks beautiful against the backdrop of the white buildings. Whether you prefer to spend your day on a hike or sipping wine by the ocean, Santorini has it all.
The capital of Italy's region of Tuscany, Florence provides the perfect backdrop for a romantic getaway. The Duomo and the Florence Cathedral provide insight into the history and architecture of the region. The Uffizi Gallery is one of the most famous art galleries in the world and home to Botticelli's "The Birth of Venus." Spend a romantic day touring Tuscany's famous Chianti vineyards and then dine al fresco at the top of the Ponte Vecchio, a medieval stone bridge. The Ponte Vecchio provides some of the most beautiful and romantic views of Florence.
Madrid is Spain's central capital and offers a beautiful scene for a honeymoon. Stroll hand in hand through the posh boulevards and picture-perfect parks. If you are looking for some culture, visit the Royal Palace of Madrid to learn the history of the Spanish monarchy. The Prado Museum holds an impressive collection of European art dating back to the 12th century. In the evening, be sure to catch a flamenco show while sipping sangria and dining on Spanish tapas, or appetizers.
Budapest, the capital of Hungary, is becoming one of the most popular honeymoon destinations in Europe. The 13th century Matthias Church and Fisherman's Bastion offer breathtaking views. Buda Castle provides a glimpse into Hungary's history and houses thousands of works of Hungarian art. If you are looking for some relaxation, soak in the natural springs of the Széchenyi Medicinal Bath.
Other attractions you can't miss include:
Prague gets its recognition as a great honeymoon destination for its sweeping views, beautiful castles, and stunning cathedrals. The capital of the Czech Republic is a great city for a romantic stroll across the Charles Bridge. Explore the Prague Castle and its twin spire church before having a picnic on the elegantly manicured park nearby. A day trip to the Czech countryside is also a romantic option for any newlyweds.
The Amalfi Coast is a 30-mile stretch of coastline along the southern edge of Italy's Sorrentine Peninsula. The hotels and bed and breakfasts are carved into the cliffside, offering a perfect morning view of the turquoise waters below. Take a walking tour of the town to view the grand estates as well as the colorful fishing villages. If you are interested in site seeing, a boat tour provides a unique view of the coast. Or relax on the beach with your spouse.
Monaco is a sovereign city-state in Europe known for its glamour and beauty. It was thrust on the scene in 1956 when Prince Rainier married American actress Grace Kelly in Monaco. Since then, honeymooners have flocked to this romantic city. Tour the Palace of Monaco before having some fun at the Monte Carlo Casino. Larvotto Beach provides an area of relaxation for those newlyweds looking to unwind.
Iceland's capital only has 122,000 citizens. However, it is an increasingly popular honeymoon destination for newlyweds. Reykjavik is one of the best locations to view the stunning light display known as the Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis. Take a day trip to the Blue Lagoon, a geothermal mineral spa with some of the most beautiful views in the world.
Perhaps one of the most iconic images of Italian romance is a couple being serenaded in a gondola as they float down the canals of Venice. Venice is a great option for a honeymoon due to its charming streets and great food. To soak up some culture and history, visit Saint Mark's Basilica and Doge's Palace.