NOTHING says romance quite like whisking your better half away for a couple of nights to one of these desirable cities. Evening walks under the lights, a table for two at a local bistro, conversations long into the night over cocktails – the spontaneity of it all is sure to send sparks flying.
Valentine’s Day happens to be in two days, which is just enough time for you to book a last-minute flight to one of these dazzling cities and give your partner a February 14 they will never forget.
Paris
An obvious one, but classics are classics for a reason. The City of Lights is a mainstay on any list that involves cities and romance, and one of the brightest lights in the city is the Eiffel Tower rising above Paris’ gothic architecture.
Just walking around within its vicinity will inspire feelings of awe and wonder, while the famous neighbourhood of Saint-Germain-des-Pres, full of incredible restaurants, is around a 30-minute-walk away or a short Uber.
High-end hotels: Four Seasons Hotel George V | Le Bristol Paris
Santorini
Few cities in the world invoke the same sense of reverence as Santorini. Wherever you and your partner choose to stay in the whitewashed Greek city, you will be surrounded by seemingly infinite vistas looking out across the Aegean Sea.
Weather in Santorini around February is a cool 14°C, so it doesn’t boast the same powerful rays as a trip during summer, but it’s still more than comfortable to sit on the cobbled streets and enjoy an aperitif before dinner.
Santorini is also a famous spot for proposals – if you’re thinking of popping the question this Valentine’s, head to the Akrotiri Lighthouse as the sun goes down. You can thank us later.
High-end hotels: Ambassador Aegean Luxury Hotel & Suites | Canaves Oia Epitome
Barcelona
Valentine’s Day in Barcelona is actually called Sant Jordi’s Day and falls on April 23rd, but the Catalan capital is packed with romantic charm all year long. Gift your loved one with some flowers from the Rambla de Les Flors – a beautiful street lined with ornate flower stalls.
Afterwards, why not take a stroll through the Barri Gòtic, almost certainly the most romantic part of the city. Its narrow streets and medieval buildings give it an intimate charm, just perfect for lovers. The area around Plaça de Sant Felip Neri is also particularly endearing.
High-end hotels: Mandarin Oriental | Hotel Arts Barcelona
Montreal
When love is in the air, Montreal provides the perfect backdrop for star-crossed lovers to enjoy a memorable Valentine’s Day. Ramble through the Parisian-influenced Old Port and you’ll be swooned by friendly locals, the cobblestone roads and charming waterfront, and a wide range of fine dining and entertainment possibilities.
Montreal is full of lovely parks for some snowshoeing or skating in winter, and while it can get very cold in February, that makes getting cosy by an open fire once back indoors all the more enticing. Montreal also has a buzzing nightlife and restaurant scene that has something for everyone.
High-end hotels: Hôtel Birks Montréal | Le Mount Stephen
Honourable mentions:
London, England
Vienna, Austria
Venice, Italy
Kyoto, Japan
Bruges, Belgium
New York City, US