Italy is a top destination for romantic getaways and honeymoons so there’s no shortage of romantic places to go. Here are 5 of Italy’s top romantic destinations with alternative suggestions.
Venice
Venice is not only one of Italy’s most romantic cities but also considered to be one of the most romantic places in the world. After you see the main sights in Saint Mark’s Square, get away from the crowds and wander along the smaller winding canals, stop for a drink in a picturesque square, and visit these 3 Venice islands. Enjoy a Venice gondola ride with live commentary in the evening.
- Find a hotel in Venice.
- Plan your visit with this Venice neighborhoods map and guide.
- Venice alternative: Verona, city of Romeo and Juliet
- Take an armchair visit with one of these Venice historical fiction novels
Amalfi Coast
The Amalfi Coast is one of Italy’s most scenic stretches of coastline and a top romantic destination. Beautiful towns rising up the hill from the sea dot the coast. One of the most romantic and picturesque is Positano, built vertically on the face of a cliff, making for stunning sea views from almost anywhere in town. It’s the perfect place for relaxing and enjoying the dolce vita. Take a romantic Amalfi Coast sunset cruise.
- Find a hotel in Positano
- Amalfi Coast alternative: The Cilento Coast, a little further south is a less-crowded and usually less-expensive alternative.
Lake Como
Lake Como, with a shoreline dotted with romantic villas and villages, has been one of Italy’s top romantic destinations for many years. Brunate, reached by cable car, offers romantic views of the lake and mountains. One of the most romantic villages is Bellagio, the Pearl of Lake Como, with good lake views and walks to the pretty gardens of Villa Melzi, small hamlets, and picturesque spots on the lake. Take a Discover the Hidden Corners of Bellagio Walking Tour for an inside look at the town and a botanical garden.
- Find a hotel in Bellagio
- Lake Como alternatives: Lake Orta, to the west, and Lake Iseo, to the east, are smaller, more intimate lakes that offer plenty of romance.
Taormina, Sicily
Taormina, Sicily’s first resort town, was a stop on the European Grand Tour in the 19th century. In a beautiful setting above the sea, Taormina has romantic views of both the coast and Mount Etna volcano, great beaches just below the town, and castle ruins above. One of the most romantic spots is the Greek theater, used for outdoor performances in summer. Take a guided tour of the ancient theater or coastline boat tour.
- Find a hotel in Taormina
- Taormina alternative: Cefalu, on Sicily’s north coast, is another charming seaside town.
Val d’Orcia, Tuscany
Tuscany’s beautiful Orcia Valley, is an area of gently rolling hills, romantic views, vineyards, and charming towns and villages. A good base is the small town of Pienza, set on a hill although the town itself is not hilly. Walk along the Via dell’Amore to admire the views and watch the sunset with a glass of wine from nearby Montalcino or Montepulciano, two good wine towns to visit. Other romantic spots in Val d’Orcia are the spa town of Bagno Vignoni known for its hot springs, La Foce gardens, and the small town of San Quirico d’Orcia.
- Find a hotel in Pienza
- Val d’Orcia alternative: The Chianti wine region, between Siena and Florence, is another great part of Tuscany to explore by car. For a unique romantic experience, take a balloon ride above Chianti.
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