Lovers, listen up. From its culture-laden cities and quaint hilltop villages to its almost 5,000-mile-long sun-drenched coast, Italia is the destination to beat for a couple’s getaway. In the land of la dolce vita, which has more UNESCO World Heritage sites than any other country in the world, romance is practically built in. Eager to find out more? We’ve shortlisted the most romantic places in Italy, from the north to the southern tip of its boot, to inspire your next getaway. It’s time to grab your amore and get packing…
1. Verona
2. Rome
3. Matera
4. Florence
5. Venice
6. Amalfi Coast
Verona
Famous around the world as the setting for Shakespeare’s tragedy, Romeo and Juliet, it’s no surprise that fair Verona is one of the most romantic places in Italy. This pocket-sized UNESCO-listed city oozes romance; tucked inside a bend of the Adige River, Verona boasts a beautiful blend of architectural styles which showcase the city’s rich history. Enjoy strolls through the city’s elegant piazzas and the pristine Giusti Garden, with its cypress-lined avenues, manicured hedgerows and Renaissance statues. Recreate the infamous balcony scene at Juliet’s (fictional) house and head to Piazzale Castel San Pietro for panoramic sunset views. For an intimate evening, opera fans can even catch a show at the Verona Arena – the city’s answer to Rome’s Colosseum.
Rome
The Eternal City’s myriad must-see sites entice every type of traveller, but the Italian capital is ideally suited to those with romance in mind. From a moonlit walk along the Tiber River to a cosy picnic in the Orange Garden (a beautiful public garden atop Aventine Hill with stunning city views), lovebirds aren’t short of things to do in Rome. Explore ancient ruins, enjoy a candlelit dinner date in the bohemian neighbourhood of Trastevere, marvel at masterpieces in the Galleria Borghese or climb the iconic Spanish Steps. If you’re really looking to pull out all the stops, hire a vintage Vespa and emulate Audrey Hepburn in Roman Holiday as you zip past the famous sights in style (here’s looking at you, Colosseum). Just make sure you’re up early enough to avoid the crowds…
Image by Jérôme Galland
Matera
If you’ve seen the latest James Bond instalment, No Time to Die, you’ll be familiar with the hilltop idyll of Matera. Dramatic car chases and gunfire aside, Matera is a magical place to spend time with your favourite person. Located in the Basilicata region, it’s one of the oldest inhabited settlements in the world. And thanks to its ancient cave dwellings, known as sassi, it’s also one of the most distinct. Take your pick from cave hotels, restaurants, churches (of which there are over 150) and museums. When night falls, there’s something undeniably enchanting about the soft golden glow of the lit-up limestone structures. Get lost (on purpose) in the maze of narrow cobbled streets, and follow your nose to sample freshly baked Pane di Matera, washed down with a refreshing Aperol Spritz, of course.
Florence
You won’t be able to argue with this next one. Florence, the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance, is undoubtedly one of the most romantic places in Italy. With its blend of Medieval, Baroque and Renaissance architecture, Florence’s heritage-rich centre is best explored on foot (so you can gaze up at historic wonders at every turn). Whether you spend your time gaping at works by Botticelli and Caravaggio or indulging in creamy gelato and Florentine cuisine, you’ll find plenty of ways to while away the hours with your special someone. At sunset, there’s nothing more romantic than an amble along a waterfront promenade, and Florence doesn’t disappoint on this front. The glassy Arno River slices through the city and has plenty of ornate bridges to ogle at, including the famed Ponte Vecchio.
Image by Berthold Steinhilber/LAIF-REA
Venice
When you think of the most romantic places in Italy, there’s a good chance that Venice springs to mind. Perhaps it’s the crisscrossing canals, the breathtaking architecture or the city’s rich culture and history, but love is undeniably palpable in La Serenissima (‘The Most Serene’). Stroll Piazza San Marco, watch the sunset from Rialto Bridge and work through the floating city’s wine bars or osterie (taverns). Whether you find it cringe-worthy or swoon-worthy, lovebirds can’t beat being serenaded by a gondolier while gliding along Venice’s waterways. The city itself is steeped in romantic lore, too. Legend has it that if a couple kisses in a gondola under the Bridge of Sighs at sunset as the church bell tolls, their love will last forever. Why not try it for yourself?
Amalfi Coast
Our list of the most romantic places in Italy wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the coast. And where better than the gorgeous, glittering Amalfi Coast? This iconic 31-mile stretch is famed for its colourful cliffside towns and spectacular vistas across the Tyrrhenian Sea. You're spoilt for choice on where to visit, from postcard-perfect Positano to lively Ravello and the coast’s charming easternmost village, Vietri sul Mare. With beaches ranging from the secluded, craggy cove at Furore Fjord to the sun-lounger-lined Spiaggia Grande, there are plenty of spots to enjoy a refreshing dip and sip on limoncello with your love.
Image by Lucy Laucht
Written by Hannah Whitehall | Header image by Jérôme Galland
