Looking for the most romantic winter destinations in Europe for 2024? Europe being so close to us folks in the UK offers an easy option for UK travellers without having to take a long flight and waste precious holiday time. You can often find budget-friendly options and won't need to fly for more than a few hours to soak up a completely different culture and open your eyes to a different side of life in winter.

Plus, winter in Europe is a magical season, perfect for snuggling up with your other half and embarking on a romantic European getaway. If you're planning a surprise trip for your partner or a well-deserved romantic break, these 15 romantic winter destinations in Europe will warm both of your hearts even in the coldest months.

Planning Your Romantic Holiday To Europe in Winter

What are the top romantic winter destinations in Europe for 2024?

one of the best romantic holidays to europe in winter is paris
Popular choices for romantic winter destinations in Europe include:

Although these romantic European cities come with hefty prices and a lot of crowds, you can't deny the romance they exude thanks to their scenic snow-dusted streets cosy cafés and festive Christmas markets.

How long are the flights from the UK to Europe’s most romantic cities?

best destinations for couples in europe
Most romantic winter destinations in Europe are just 1-3 hours from the UK with some actually being in the UK itself. For example, Paris is only about an hour away by plane, while Venice takes about 2 hours.

Do I need to book months in advance for a romantic winter trip?

It’s best to book at least 2-3 months in advance, especially if you're planning a romantic winter holiday around Christmas or New Year's. Flights and hotels can fill up quickly during peak season.

What are some budget-friendly romantic destinations?

European cities like Budapest, Ljubljana, and Prague offer romance on a budget, with cheap hotels, food and drink options, and plenty of free or low-cost romantic activities.

What’s the weather like in Europe during winter?

best destinations for couples in europe
It varies! Northern and central Europe (like Switzerland and Austria) tend to have snowy winters, while southern destinations like Venice are milder but still cool. Always pack for cold weather just in case.

The 16 Most Romantic Winter Destinations in Europe

1. Paris - France

winter in paris as one of the most romantic winter destinations in europe
How to Get There: Fly into Paris Charles de Gaulle or Orly Airport from major UK cities. Eurostar trains from London are also a convenient option.

Paris, often dubbed the "City of Love," stands as THE romantic winter destination in Europe. Its allure lies in its cobbled streets, iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, and its world-renowned cuisine. When winter descends, Paris takes on an even more enchanting aura, as its streets shimmer with sparkling lights, and the scent of freshly baked croissants fills the air. Couples can sail down the Seine on a romantic boat ride, meander through the artistic Montmartre district, or linger at a charming café for an intimate evening. Be sure to reserve a table at Le Jules Verne, the Eiffel Tower's renowned restaurant, for breathtaking city views while trying gourmet French cuisine.

Where to Stay:

  • Luxury: Le Meurice
  • Boutique: Hôtel de Ville
  • Budget: Generator Paris

What to Do:

2. Prague - Czech Republic

picture of prague in the winter getaways
How to Get There: Fly into Václav Havel Airport from major UK cities. Trains from other European cities are also an option.

Next on our list of the most romantic winter destinations in Europe is Prague. With its fairytale-like architecture and snow-dusted streets, Prague emerges as an idyllic winter haven for couples. The Old Town Square transforms into a scenic Christmas market, offering Czech pastries and artisanal gifts. A leisurely stroll along the Charles Bridge, framed by falling snowflakes, feels truly magical making Prague one of the best snowy Christmas holidays in Europe. For an extra dose of romance, consider a horse-drawn carriage ride through the city's historic lanes, followed by a dinner reservation at the elegant Bellevue restaurant, celebrated for its panoramic vistas of Prague Castle. Prague in winter spoils tourists with its abundance of fun activities.

Where to Stay:

  • Luxury: Augustine, a Luxury Collection Hotel
  • Boutique: Hotel Golden Key
  • Budget: Hostel Rosemary

What to Do:

  • Wander through the Old Town Square Christmas market
  • Enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride over Charles Bridge
  • Dine at Bellevue for a view of Prague Castle

3. Salzburg - Austria

woman walking in salzburg austria

How to Get There: Fly into Salzburg Airport from major UK cities. Trains and buses are available from other Austrian cities.

Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart and the backdrop for "The Sound of Music," is another great choice for a romantic holiday in winter. Couples can explore the Hohensalzburg Fortress, offering sweeping city panoramas, savour a slice of Sachertorte at one of the city's historic coffeehouses, or take a short train ride to Oberndorf where the classic Christmas carol Silent Night was composed. To add a touch of enchantment, enjoy a candlelit dinner at St. Peter Stiftskulinarium, one of Europe's oldest restaurants.

Where to Stay:

What to Do:

4. Amsterdam - the Netherlands

bike with snow on it in amsterdam above a canal in one of europe's most romantic winter destinations
How to Get There: Fly into Amsterdam Schiphol Airport or take a train from other European cities.

Winter can be harsh in Amsterdam, but aside from the weather there are plenty of fun things to do inside together. Amsterdam is bursting with world-famous museums, such as the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum, that are bound to keep you entertained and the Winter Parade adds a touch of festive magic. At night, drink with the locals in a cosy brown bar in Jordaan and top your night off with some warming bitterballen - the quintessential end to a Dutch night out.

Where to Stay:

  • Luxury: Conservatorium Hotel
  • Boutique: Hotel Estherea
  • Budget: ClinkNOORD Hostel

What to Do:

5. Helsinki - Finland

helsinki Finland in the winter getaway for couples in europe

Another great choice for a romantic holiday to Europe in winter is Helskini, Finland’s capital city which combines authenticity, modernity and Scandi-Russian influences. With hundreds of parks, it is the perfect place to enjoy a nice,  quiet walk around nature with your other half. Pack many layers as winters are unforgiving in Finland but if you can brace for the cold, you're in for a fun holiday with your other half where you can warm up in public saunas, explore Orthodox churches and stop for coffee at the Old Market Hall.

Where to stay in Helsinki

Here are some of our hot takes for the best hotels in town while you’re visiting Finland’s capital:

  • Including a pool: Come to the Hilton Helsinki Strand to enjoy the indoor pool and relax in the sauna.
  • With a modern design: Visit the Radisson Blu Aleksanteri Hotel, located in downtown Helsinki.
  • Far from the hustle and bustle of the city: Korpilampi is an all-suite hotel with a golf course and beach just 600 feet away.

What to do in Helsinki

While Helsinki is not known for wild parties, it’s definitely a gem for art lovers and nature lovers. Check out some of the activities you can do while you’re there:

6. Venice - Italy

venice italy in the winter is one of the best romantic destinations for couples

How to get to Venice for your romantic winter holiday: Fly to Venice Treviso or Marco Polo Airport

Another classic romantic winter European destination, with its romantic canals, gondolas and timeless architecture, Venice is an incredibly beautiful city for love birds. This breathtaking Italian city is a hotspot for honeymoons, proposals and anniversary trips but in winter, you can properly take in the scenery without the vastly less crowded streets. Go bar hopping down the ancient alleyways at night and wander the streets with a warming coffee in hand by day.

Where to stay in Venice
If you don’t already know, here’s a heads-up: Venice is filled with gorgeous hotels. Here are just some of them:

  • Luxury: Nani Mocenigo Palace, embeds true Italian-style grandeur in its walls.
  • Great view: Splendid Venice – Starhotels Collezione, located directly on the waters of the famous lagoon city to reach the hotel by gondola.
  • Good location: Ateneo, in the heart of the city and close to all the tourist attractions.

Romantic things to do in Venice
Have a romantic Venetian weekend with these romantic couple activities:

7. Copenhagen - Denmark

copenhagen is great for a couples holiday in winter

How to Get There: Fly to Copenhagen Airport.

If you can handle the cold (and the hefty prices), Copenhagen is another great romantic winter holiday in Europe. During the day, we recommend taking a walking tour through the city to learn all about its varied history before popping into the modern art gallery - something Denmark is famous for! Afterwards, tuck into buttery Danish pastries in one of the many cafés, or view the sculptures at the SMK.

Where to Stay:

  • Luxury: Nimb Hotel
  • Boutique: Hotel SP34
  • Budget: Steel House Copenhagen

What to Do:

8. Vienna - Austria

rooftops in vienna as snow falls in winter

How to Get There: Fly into Vienna International Airport from major UK cities.

Another of the best romantic holidays to Europe in winter is Vienna, Austria. Vienna's imperial palaces and striking architecture cast a captivating spell during winter. Visit the city's enchanting Christmas markets, attend classical music concerts, and sip on hot chocolate at the renowned Demel café. Take a nostalgic horse-drawn carriage ride through the historical city centre or uncover the opulent decor of Schönbrunn Palace together.

Where to Stay:

  • Luxury: Hotel Sacher Wien
  • Boutique: The Guesthouse Vienna
  • Budget: Wombat's City Hostel

What to Do:

  • Visit the city's famous Christmas markets
  • Drink Weihnachtspunsch
  • Attend a classical music concert

9. Lucerne - Switzerland
lucerne is one of the worlds most romantic places

How to Get There: Fly into Zurich Airport and take a train to Lucerne.

In the Swiss Alps, Lucerne becomes a winter wonderland, with snow-clad peaks and a serene lake. Enjoy a romantic saunter across the Chapel Bridge, try Swiss cheese fondue at a cosy restaurant, and sail Lake Lucerne on a boat. The city's dramatic alpine backdrop sets the stage for unforgettable shared moments and makes Lucerne one of Europe's most romantic winter destinations.

Where to Stay:

  • Luxury: Hotel des Balances
  • Boutique: Hotel des Alpes
  • Budget: Backpackers Lucerne

What to Do:

10. Budapest - Hungary

winter in budapest - a view of snow falling on a castle in budapest
How to Get There: Fly to Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport.
Another of the best destinations for couples in Europe in winter is Budapest, Hungary. A cheap and cheerful holiday packed with history, great nightlife and a good chance of snow, Budapest's thermal baths beckon with particular allure during winter. Couples can escape the cold by bathing in the mineral-rich waters of Széchenyi Thermal Bath or Gellért Thermal Bath before braving the cold to explore Budapest's historical icons, such as Buda Castle and the Parliament building. At night, enjoy a romantic dinner cruise along the Danube River as you admire the city's illuminated skyline.

Where to Stay:

  • Luxury: Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace
  • Boutique: Hotel Palazzo Zichy
  • Budget: Maverick City Lodge

What to Do:

  • Relax in Széchenyi or Gellért Thermal Bath
  • Explore Buda Castle and the Fisherman's Bastion
  • Enjoy a dinner cruise along the Danube River

11. Ljubljana - Slovenia
stay in this romantic winter holiday in europe

How to Get There: Fly to Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport.

Last on our list of the best romantic winter destinations in Europe is Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia. A fairly unknown travel destination, Ljubljana has a picturesque old town, adorned with festive lights and snow-dusted streets that set the perfect ambience for couples. Explore the medieval Ljubljana Castle, stroll along the Ljubljanica River, and enjoy the lively Christmas market. Ljubljana's fairytale-like ambience and vibrant culture make it a unique winter destination for couples in Europe.

Where to Stay:

  • Luxury: InterContinental Ljubljana
  • Boutique: Hotel Cubo
  • Budget: Hostel Celica

What to Do:

  • Visit Ljubljana Castle for panoramic views
  • Stroll along the Ljubljanica River
  • Enjoy the Christmas market in the city centre

12. Bruges - Belgium

bruges is one of the most romantic european cities
How to Get There: Fly into Brussels Airport and take a train to Bruges, or take a direct train from London.
Bruges is romantic all year long but in winter even more- landing it firmly on our list of the best romantic holidays to Europe in winter. When you visit Bruges with your other half, you'll feel like you've gone back in time as you wander the city’s canals, cobblestone streets, and historic architecture. Enjoy a peaceful canal cruise (just make sure to wrap up warm), explore the beautiful Christmas market in the Market Square, and warm up with Belgian hot chocolate and waffles. Younger couples should note that Bruges has practically no nightlife, so if you're looking to party, this may not be the place for you.

Where to Stay:

  • Luxury: Hotel de Orangerie
  • Boutique: Hotel de Tuilerieën
  • Budget: St. Christopher's Inn Hostel

What to Do:

  • Take a romantic canal cruise
  • Visit the Christmas market in Market Square
  • Enjoy Belgian hot chocolate and waffles

13. Antwerp - Belgium

antwerp is one of the most romantic places in europe

How to Get To Antwerp for your Romantic Holiday: Fly into Brussels Airport and take a train to Antwerp, or take a direct train from London.

Antwerp is a pint-sized Belgian city that offers a quaint and quiet romantic holiday to Europe in winter. Antwerp's perfectly preserved architecture, including the impressive Cathedral of Our Lady, and its bustling Christmas market create a festive and romantic atmosphere. Stroll through the historic centre as you sample delicious Belgian chocolates, explore the city's museums fascinating museums like the DIVA or the Red Star Line Museum, and cosy up in one of the many traditional pubs as the night draws in.

Where to Stay:

  • Luxury: Hotel Julien
  • Boutique: Hotel Rubens-Grote Markt
  • Budget: Antwerp Central Youth Hostel

What to Do:

14. Cambridge - UK
cambridge is one of the best winter destinations for couples

How to Get There: Take a train from London to Cambridge, which is about an hour’s journey.

For a romantic winter holiday without leaving the UK, Cambridge bursts with history and picturesque scenery. Stroll along the River Cam, explore the stunning university colleges, and enjoy a cosy afternoon tea in one of the city’s charming tearooms. The city’s serene ambience and beautiful architecture make it a delightful destination for a winter getaway.

Where to Stay:

  • Luxury: The Varsity Hotel & Spa
  • Boutique: Hotel du Vin & Bistro
  • Budget: YHA Cambridge

What to Do:

  • Take a punting tour on the River Cam
  • Explore the historic university colleges
  • Enjoy afternoon tea in a local tearoom

15. Zurich - Switzerland

zurich is one of the best romantic holidays to europe
How to Get There: Fly into the ultra high-end Zurich Airport from most major UK cities.

Zurich, Switzerland’s largest city, is an expensive but beautiful romantic holiday in Europe in winter. The city’s festive Christmas markets, cosy cafés, and beautiful winter scenery make it a romantic winter destination for couples and you can easily access other Swiss cities and worthwhile destinations in Switzerland like the Jungfraujoch or Zermatt if you'd rather spend more time skiing or hiking. In winter in Zurich, you can enjoy tons of fun Christmas activities like making your own beeswax candlesticks at Burkliplatz, going ice skating at the Landesmuseum or watching the opera.

Where to Stay in Winter in Zurich:

  • Luxury: Badrutt's Palace Hotel
  • Boutique: Hotel Helmhaus
  • Budget: Zurich Youth Hostel

What to Do:

16. Maastricht - The Netherlands

visit maastricht as one of the best places to visit in europe in winter
How to Get There: Fly to Maastricht Aachen Airport
Maastricht is another romantic winter destination in Europe that oozes tradition, history and unique southern Dutch culture. In the south of the Netherlands, you can easily see the whole city in a day but staying there a few nights makes everything more special. Wander the cobbled streets, sip mulled wine on a terrace and go pub hopping at night.

Where to Stay in winter in Maastricht:

What to Do in Maastricht in winter:

Will you go to one of these Romantic Winter Destinations in Europe?

Make this winter memorable by spending it at one of these romantic winter destinations in Europe with the one you love the most. Whether you stay within the UK or fly to another country, you're bound to make priceless new memories that last long after your romantic winter holiday is over. Then all you need to do is start planning for your next getaway!

Gift a Plane Ticket To Europe With A Flight Voucher
gift a flight with a flight gift card

Up the romance this winter by buying a flight gift card as a Christmas present for your nearest and dearest. With a flight gift card, they'll be able to book a flight to one of these romantic winter destinations in Europe or thousands of other incredible destinations worldwide like:

With our airline vouchers, the world becomes their oyster giving them the freedom to plan the best romantic holiday to Europe in winter. Whether it's the iconic streets of Paris, the picturesque charm of Prague, or the tranquil beauty of Bruges, our multi-airline gift vouchers are the best way to gift a flight. You just add a gift card valued between £25 to £10,000 and send it for free worldwide either by email or in the post. This is a Christmas gift that's guaranteed to impress.