Romance is in the air, and what better way to celebrate it than by setting sail to some of Europe’s most enchanting cities?
Whether it’s for Valentine’s Day, an anniversary, or simply a much-needed getaway, our expertly curated list highlights the best European destinations for couples accessible by cruise, using data from multiple sources.
With stunning parks, relaxing spas, intimate restaurants, as well as more affordable experiences, these cities offer the perfect mix of charm and romance.
How did we do it?
Our campaign set out to identify the best European cities for couples by combining data to analyse the romantic potential of a destination.
Using trusted sources like TripAdvisor and Numbeo, the cost of living database, we analysed several key factors, including the number of parks for scenic strolls, the availability of spas for indulgent relaxation, and the abundance of romantic restaurants.
We also considered the average cost of a meal for two, ensuring lovebirds can enjoy memorable moments without breaking the bank.
We used these metrics as well as search data to give us a Total Index Score, with 100 being the highest possible score.
Crucially, every city on this list is a port city or easily accessible by cruise, making them perfect for those who dream of romantic cruise holidays across Europe.
Top 10 best European cities for couples
Topping the list is the mesmerising city of Istanbul, Turkey, which earned an impressive score of 96 out of 100. Combining affordability with endless romantic options, Istanbul boasts 212 parks for tranquil walks, 403 spas for indulgent retreats, and 767 romantic restaurants. With an average meal for two costing just £36.27, it’s a destination that promises unforgettable experiences without costing an arm and a leg.
Coming in second, Barcelona, Spain, offers a vibrant mix of culture and romance. Famous for its iconic architecture and lively atmosphere, Barcelona leads the way with 847 romantic restaurants and 691 spas, as well as 92 parks for couples to explore. It’s a city designed to steal hearts while offering great value, with an average meal for two coming in slightly higher than Istanbul at £49.69. Spain cements its reputation as a dream destination for couples, with other cities like Alicante, Valencia, and La Coruña joining Barcelona in the top ten, making for an ideal romantic cruise along the Spanish coast.
Lisbon, Portugal, with its charming, tram-lined streets and stunning viewpoints, is another standout choice. Ranking third, Lisbon provides couples with 731 romantic restaurants and 230 spas, along with pleasant weather almost year-round.
Other cities high up on our list include Amsterdam, Netherlands, known for miles upon miles of canals and an abundance of spas, and Florence, Italy, where the romance is bolstered by the city’s history.
Top 10 worst European cities for couples
While Europe offers plenty of romantic cities, not all destinations are created equal for couples. Cities such as Akureyri and Reykjavik in Iceland scored poorly, largely due to their limited romantic options and high costs. Reykjavik, for example, offers only 87 romantic restaurants, with an average meal for two costing a staggering £99.33.
Similarly, Tromsø and Trondheim in Norway and Monte Carlo in Monaco also feature on the list of least romantic cities, as high costs and limited amenities make them less appealing for couples seeking a dreamy getaway.
These destinations showcase the brilliance of a cruise holiday. While they might not be the most romantic cities in the world according to our index, you’ll likely still want to check them off your list, and a cruise holiday allows you to do that while also experiencing the romance of neighbouring cities.
Which European cities have the biggest range of parks?
For nature-loving couples, parks play a crucial role in setting the mood, and Istanbul shines once again with 212 parks, the highest of any city. Other cities like La Coruña in Spain and Hamburg in Germany also rank highly, offering abundant greenery for romantic walks and picturesque picnics.
On the other end of the spectrum, destinations like Santorini in Greece and Greenock in Scotland have only two parks, making them less ideal for couples who enjoy long walks in the great outdoors.
Which European cities have the widest range of spa and wellness centres?
When it comes to relaxation, Barcelona leads the way with 691 spas, while Istanbul and Lisbon also offer extensive options for those looking to unwind, solidifying these cities as the best destinations for couples looking to have a romantic getaway.
However, if spa days are a priority, steer clear of cities like Villefranche-sur-Mer in France, which offers just one spa facility! Cork, Ireland and Dover, England, follow closely, with only two spas dotted across the cities.
If the only thing stopping you from booking a holiday to one of the top European cities is the lack of spa facilities, a cruise could be the perfect solution. Many cruise lines offer amazing spa and wellness facilities, from open-air decks with hot tubs to indoor saunas and pools. You can also book massages and other treatments that are sure to leave you relaxed after a busy day strolling around one of the top European cities.
Best European cities for romantic restaurant options
For couples who love to tuck into a delicious fine-dining experience, Barcelona once again takes the top spot with 847 romantic restaurants. Istanbul follows closely, with 767 restaurants, but also offers better value for money than Barcelona.
On the other hand, Copenhagen offers a respectable 365 romantic restaurants – one for every day of the year. However, couples may be put off by the higher cost of visiting this city.
Worst European cities for romantic restaurant options
Surprisingly, France – often seen as the pinnacle of romance – doesn’t feature in the top ten for romantic dining, showing that a bit of research can completely dispel stereotypes that can be misleading.
Norway features plenty of times in the list of the worst European cities for romantic restaurants, with three cities in the bottom ten and Molde featuring as the worst.
Comparing the average cost of a meal for two in Europe
Cost plays a big role in planning any getaway, and cities like Izmir and Bodrum in Turkey offer incredible value. Izmir tops the list with an average meal for two costing just £27, while Bodrum follows at £29.25.
Both destinations offer a delightful mix of affordability and quality, making them ideal for couples on a budget. Again, Scandinavian destinations like Reykjavik and Akureyri in Iceland top the charts for the most expensive meals, with average costs soaring to £99.33 and £93.24, respectively. This isn’t to say that they aren’t incredible destinations for couples with extra cash to splash, just that you shouldn’t go expecting a bargain!
If you want the best of everything for couples, a cruise holiday is the best way to do it. If a place offers incredible scenery but the cost of a meal is higher than you’d like, you can still explore the city and get back onboard to enjoy an array of dining options. Many cruise lines also offer speciality dining at an additional but very minimal cost, which is perfect for couples who want to enjoy a romantic meal!
From the lush parks of Istanbul to the vibrant culinary experiences of Barcelona, European cruises offer couples an unparalleled opportunity to explore the continent’s most romantic cities.
Whether you’re seeking sunlit beaches, cultural landmarks, or cosy candlelit dinners, our data ensures you’ll find the perfect port of call.