Valentine’s Day is just around the corner and florists are anticipating the busiest day of the year. But instead of a box of chocolates and soon-to-wilt flowers, how about spending time with your loved one and creating lasting memories to make your connection even stronger?
The world is full of romantic places where love is seemingly always in the air, from historic castle-like gems to lush island oases. Here are our favorite romantic hotels for the perfect Valentine’s Day getaway in the most romantic destinations around the world.
Maison Bistro & Hotel in Budapest, Hungary
Situated in a historic manse in Budapest’s castle district, the charming, four-star Maison Bistro & Hotel boasts 17 unique rooms in the main building and eight modern rooms with locally designed decor in the Petit Maison next door. Opt for a deluxe double in the Maison. Crisp white linens cover beds you can sink into and half-vaulted ceilings boast windows overlooking gorgeous environs. Chandeliers provide atmospheric lighting and the onsite bistro affords guests romantic champagne breakfasts as well as opulent dinners featuring modern takes on Hungarian classics.
Budapest’s opulent architecture, history of wellness and regal flair make it the perfect romantic city for any couple looking for a Valentine’s getaway. Maison Bistro & Hotel’s proximity to many of Budapest‘s most popular historic sites and romantic buildings make it the ideal romantic hotel in the city. Walk to the nearby neo-Baroque Castle Palace, the highest building in the city, which affords spectacular views over the Danube.
Nothing beats spending the day at one of Budapest’s world famous spas, many of which are fairytale like in nature. Whether you opt for a couple’s massage, a spa treatment or a dip in a bubbling whirlpool, you’re spoiled for choice at Széchenyi Spa, one of Europe’s oldest and largest.
The perfect highlight of your romantic trip is a candlelit boat trip on the Danube. With a Hungarian 3-course menu and a glass of champagne, you will comfortably chug past the atmospherically illuminated sights of the metropolis—from the impressive Parliament building past the Freedom Bridge, the Chain Bridge with its guardian lions and Margaret Island.
For more information on Budapest, read our city guide.
Riad Anya in Marrakech, Morocco
For a romantic vacation for two, the traditional Moroccan houses with lushly green courtyards, called riads, are perfect. Riad Anya is located right on the edge of the medina (old town) and offers the ideal mix of tranquility and hustle and bustle. Numerous plants, cozy seating areas, and details of traditional Moroccan carving with a modern touch will sweep you away into a different world. The light-flooded rooms with private bathrooms, air-conditioning, and partly oversized beds offer privacy. But the courtyard with pool and numerous Moroccan lanterns, as well as the cozy roof terrace with whirlpool and views of the Atlas Mountains, are the actual highlights.
Whether you’re looking for a recommendation for a romantic restaurant, a driver service, or a tour booking, the hospitable staff at Riad Anya will assist you with great expertise. How about a couple’s massage in one of the many charming hammams in Marrakech or a tajine cooking class?
Wander through the narrow streets of the medina towards the famous Djemaa el Fna square, soak up the spice-scented air and discover the treasures and handicrafts on offer—from carpets and jewelry to traditional lanterns. Our tip: Be sure to negotiate a good price, that’s part of the experience! Towards evening, mysterious snake charmers and jugglers cavort here; fortune tellers tell your future.
The Jardin Majorelle is a green (and blue) oasis of peace, created over 40 years of dedication by French artist Jacques Majorelle. Stroll leisurely through one of the most beautiful gardens in the world, whose unique color palette with the omnipresent Majorelle blue and over 300 different plants have already inspired Yves Saint Laurent. The perfect place for a memory shot.
Lafitte Hotel & Bar in New Orleans, USA
The Lafitte Hotel & Bar is located in a historic 1849 townhouse in the legendary French Quarter. The former mansion was converted into a hotel over the last century with 14 stylishly appointed rooms with private baths. Historic furnishings like four-poster beds, exposed brick walls, and modern amenities like air-conditioning, a private refrigerator, and spacious showers make your visit both relaxing and unique. For a personalized touch, antiques and art from the region are featured. Ensure you book a room with one of the beautiful, cast-iron-framed balconies overlooking world-famous Bourbon Street. That way, you can enjoy the evening sounds of the surrounding jazz bars as well as your privacy.
NOLA, as the locals affectionately call New Orleans, is most famous for its unique history as well as its outstanding art and music scene. Walk from the Lafitte Hotel to Royal Street, home to the best art galleries amid charming souvenir stores, small grocery stores, and a variety of restaurants. Or drift down Frenchman Street and spend an evening together listening to the kind of live music that can only be found here. Whether it’s jazz or blues, clubs like the Blue Nile, Snug Habor or The Spotted Cat promise a night you’ll be telling your grandchildren about.
Enjoy a ride together on the typical historic streetcars to explore the French Quarter, the picturesque Garden District and the Warehouse District. Another NOLA highlight is a paddle steamer ride across the Mississippi River. The Natchez is the only authentic steamboat in New Orleans and offers spectacular views as well as traditional dishes like gumbo and jambalaya.
La Maison Gobert Paris Hotel Particulier in Paris, France
Set in a traditional, listed townhouse inspired by 17th- and 18th-century architecture, La Maison Gobert Paris Hotel Particulier makes all your Parisian dreams come true. Elegant velvety Chippendale furnishings, muted colors, and lovely details define the look of the bed & breakfast. Stucco ceilings, a fireplace in the lounge, and French balconies complete the romantic atmosphere. In addition, the hotel also offers a charming, green garden for your shared croissant in the morning, as well as a private shuttle service to Parisian sights.
Besides a visit to the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre, a stroll through the Montmartre district is a must. On the Place du Tertre, high up on the hill, different artists offer their artwork and services. The perfect opportunity to artistically capture that intimate moment with your favorite person. Climb the 240 steps to the dome of the neo-Byzantine Sacré-Cœur Basilica and enjoy the view over the city. If you want to take romance to the max, visit Le Musée de la vie romantique in a picturesque 1830s city villa, or head to the Mur des Je t’aime and be inspired by the declarations of love in various languages.
French haute cuisine is famous worldwide, and the many exquisite restaurants in Paris make the hearts of gourmets beat faster. The staff at La Maison Gobert will be delighted to help you with recommendations and a booking—whether for a charming bistro or a starred restaurant. An unforgettable experience is waiting for you.
For more information on your destination, check out our guide about the top things to do in Paris.
Corte Realdi Suites in Verona, Italy
The exclusive apartments of Corte Realdi Suites are located in a historic building in the heart of Verona, next to two of the most beautiful squares of the city, Piazza delle Erbe and Piazza dei Signori. The interior knows how to impress with opulent frescoes on the ceilings, golden details and princely ambience. In addition to large, comfortable beds, the spacious, air-conditioned apartments have inviting seating areas, a fully equipped kitchen, and more—even slippers are provided. The private balconies offer stunning views and tempt you to linger.
The Corte Realdi’s 5-star service includes a sparkling glass of prosecco on arrival, a daily breakfast (left outside the room door if you want it), and a variety of specials on request. For example, have a limousine pick you up from the airport or train station, candle lightning in your suite, or a private dinner with local specialties and wine tasting prepared.
Right outside the door of your first-class apartment, you’ll find the market in Piazza delle Erbe. Taste La Dolce Vita and stock up on Italian delicacies before exploring the historical sights such as the Ponte Pietra or the colorful houses at Piazza Bra. A visit to the Verona Arena will be the crowning highlight of your Italy trip. Where gladiators once fought, world-class opera performances now take place. The staff at the Corte Realdi will be pleased to arrange an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour for you.
Within walking distance of your suite sits Romeo’s Juliet’s home, the Casa di Giulietta, with one of the most famous balconies in history. Take your written vows of love with you to place them on the wall and, according to popular belief, stay together happily ever after.
