Paris is the undisputed "city of love", no question about it. But let's be honest: have you ever been to the Champs-Élysées on a Saturday night? More people than at a festival, and instead of romantic time together, there are long queues in front of every restaurant. Luckily, there are alternatives - cities that exude just as much romance, but without the tourist overload. 7 cities as romantic as Paris: Here are seven places that will turn your head just as much!
Étretat – Natural drama with heart palpitations
If romance had a backdrop, it would be Étretat. This little gem on the Normandy coast is not a classic destination for lovers - but that is precisely what makes it so appealing. The white chalk cliffs rise dramatically into the sky while the sea crashes against the cliffs. Particularly impressive is the "Porte d'Aval", a natural rock bridge that looks like something out of a fantasy film.
If you're looking for some peace and quiet, grab a blanket and watch the setting sun bathe the rocks in gold. There's nothing more romantic than a picnic on the Falaises d'Etretat. Admittedly, you'll have to get a bit of exercise beforehand, as the climb takes about 10 minutes up a steep hill, but you'll be rewarded with the most dramatic and magical view of the city. No wonder the landscape inspired none other than Claude Monet himself to create some of his most famous works.
Montreux – Jazz, Lake and Nostalgia
Anyone who loves music and mountain panoramas should definitely travel to Montreux in Switzerland. Located directly on Lake Geneva, the city is not only known for its world-famous jazz festival, but also for an impressive mix of nature and culture.
Die Uferpromenade ist gesäumt von Palmen (ja, in der Schweiz!), die Berge spiegeln sich im türkisblauen Wasser, und irgendwo spielt garantiert ein Straßenmusiker mit melancholischer Stimme. Wer es besonders romantisch mag, sollte in den Belle-Époque-Zug steigen, der euch durch die spektakuläre Schweizer Landschaft kutschiert – so stilvoll reist ihr sonst nur in alten Filmen.
For the full article: time out on Lake Geneva
Florence – Where even stone statues are sexy
There are cities that are beautiful. And then there is Florence. The Italian pearl is made for romantics: narrow streets that smell of espresso and old stories, impressive Renaissance buildings and sunsets that make even Instagram filters pale in comparison.
Start your day with a stroll across the Ponte Vecchio - the only bridge that still has houses on it. This used to be a blacksmith's workshop, but today you'll find small jewelry shops that are perfect for a special souvenir. Then continue to the Florence Cathedral, whose imposing dome is a masterpiece of architecture.
And then there is Michelangelo's "David". If you thought a statue couldn't be sexy - wait until you stand in front of this marble masterpiece. In the evening, you can enjoy a glass of Chianti on a piazza and watch the warm light spread over the rooftops. It doesn't get much more romantic than that.
Koper – Mediterranean romance without crowds
Venice is beautiful, no doubt about it - but it is also overcrowded and overpriced. If you want to experience the charm of the lagoon city without constantly tripping over tourist suitcases, you should travel to Koper. The Slovenian port city is a real gem that combines Italian flair with a relaxed Mediterranean feeling.
Stroll through the old town, past the Praetorian Palace, and enjoy an espresso on Tito Square - without the hustle and bustle and at reasonable prices. If you're looking for a romantic break by the water, take a kayak and paddle along the coast. In the evening, enjoy a dinner with fresh seafood and the best Slovenian wine - which, by the way, is no longer an insider tip.
For the full article: Treasures of Slovenia
Und wenn ihr eine Rundreise durch Slowenien plant, haben wir euch hier unsere Slowenien Urlaub Erfahrungen summarized.
Utrecht – A touch of Amsterdam, only more relaxed
Amsterdam is undoubtedly charming, but sometimes a little… stressful. Utrecht, on the other hand, offers the same canal romance, just without the crowds. Here you can sail along the canals in a small boat or sit in a café right by the water - Utrecht has two-story canals with small terraces that are perfect for a cozy breakfast for two.
If you want to see the city from above, climb the Dom Tower - don't worry, the view of the red roofs and green parks is worth the stairs. And if you want a bit of urban flair, stroll through the Wittevrouwen district - hip boutiques, cool bars and a relaxed, creative atmosphere make it the perfect place for long conversations over a glass of wine.
Budapest – Hot springs and hot nights
Budapest is a city that you don't just visit - you experience it. It is full of contrasts: during the day you relax in steaming thermal baths, in the evening you drink cocktails in hip ruin bars. And there is always this air of history that hangs over the city.
A walk across the Chain Bridge at sunset? An absolute must. A boat trip on the Danube with a view of the illuminated Parliament? Goosebumps guaranteed. And for the ultimate romantic feeling, there is a candlelight dinner in one of the rustic wine cellars where Hungarian Tokaj is served. Budapest is the perfect mix of relaxation, culture and a bit of adventure.
For the full article: A weekend in Budapest
Prague – Fairytale Romance
Prague is a city you can get lost in. And that's exactly what makes it so magical. When you stroll through the old town, you feel like you're in a fairytale. Cobblestone streets, enchanted courtyards and small cafes where you can drink hot chocolate and lose track of time.
The Charles Bridge is a classic - especially in the morning when the fog is still hanging over the Vltava. If you want to get a little bit of luck, stroke the statue of St. Nepomuk. Then continue to St. Vitus Cathedral, whose imposing towers are a real eye-catcher at night. Prague has this timeless, nostalgic charm that makes every couple the main character in their own love story.
Go to Article: Prague in Winter
Conclusion
Sure, Paris is Paris. But why always choose the obvious when there are so many other beautiful cities that are just as romantic? Whether it's wild coasts, Mediterranean flair or nostalgic Belle Époque romance - love is in the air. You just have to know where to look for it.
