Why Choose a Honeymoon Destination in Europe?
With such ancient history, culture vultures will rejoice in the endless sights of Europe, with world-famous structures like the Acropolis, Alhambra, and the Vatican to be discovered. However, there is also plenty of adventure, from scaling glaciers in Iceland to surfing the world’s biggest waves in Portugal. Discover both romance and adventure with these must-visit Europe honeymoon destinations.
Tip: Two-three weeks is a good amount of time in Europe if you’d like to visit several countries on your honeymoon.
1. Greek Islands
Is there anything more dreamy than the azure blue waters, olive groves, and white sandy beaches of Greece? This storybook setting is home to many romantic islands, from the rocky beaches of Milos to the white-washed walls of clifftop Santorini.
As one of the best honeymoon destinations in Europe, we recommend island-hopping to enjoy the unique atmosphere of each. By day, snorkel among colorful fish and wander the cobbled streets filled with the scent of pink flowers. By night, enjoy some of the greatest sunsets in the world, watching golden rays dip down into the sparkling Aegean Sea. And, of course, every sunset is made better with a delicious Greek dinner of fresh seafood and creamy feta salads.
Where to Stay in the Greek Islands
You’re spoilt for choice when deciding where to stay on the Greek Islands! Some of our favorites are:
Kefalonia
As the largest island, you and your partner will have plenty to discover and endless landscapes to explore, from lofty mountains to secret coves.
Milos
This small volcanic island is understated and beautiful; it will feel like you’ve discovered Greece’s best-kept secret.
Santorini
Arguably the most popular of the Greek islands, it’s definitely one of the busiest. However, it’s absolutely stunning, with its iconic white clifftop villages and blue domed roofs.
It also offers some of the most luxurious honeymoon accommodations, with many boutique hotels offering private pools and fine dining experiences.
Tip: You’ll likely fly into Athens on your trip to the Greek Islands. We recommend staying for a night to take a tour of the ancient Acropolis and enjoy the romance of the rooftop bars and atmospheric streets.
2. Lake Como, Italy
Lake Como is synonymous with the life of the rich and famous, so it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a luxurious honeymoon. The stunning lake, surrounded by majestic mountains, makes the perfect backdrop for your post-wedding vacation. Plus, you won’t be short of five-star hotels, Michelin-star restaurants, and fantastic shopping.
We recommend allocating at least three days of your honeymoon trip to explore the many charming villages that line the shores. The best way to do so is to rent a boat for the day to discover hidden coves, cool off in glacial waters, and eat and drink to your heart’s content. Como is one of the best honeymoon destinations in Europe; the perfect place to celeb spot and enjoy the Dolce Vita lifestyle to the fullest!
Where to Stay in Lake Como, Italy
If you want to be in the center of the action, choose the atmospheric town of Bellagio. For something more secluded, choose any of the tiny towns dotted around the lake (all accessible by boat).
3. Hvar, Croatia
Hvar, Croatia, has to be one of the most spectacular places we’ve ever visited and undeniably one of the best honeymoon destinations in Europe. Gorgeous beaches, Venetian architecture, narrow winding streets, and pretty squares make Hvar town a romantic hotspot.
Tip: Many smaller islands and caves lie off the shore of Hvar, just waiting to be discovered. Join a boat tour and go island-hopping to see the famous blue and green caves. Make sure to also bring your snorkel to explore the marine life among the azure blue waters.
Where to Stay in Hvar, Croatia
Hvar town is fast becoming one of the most luxurious places in Croatia, and for a good reason; it’s stunningly beautiful and has a party atmosphere that many couples will love.
If you’re after something a bit more relaxed, stay in Stari Grad instead (a smaller town on the northern side of Hvar).
4. Paris, France
Welcome to the city of lights and love! Paris is the epitome of romance, offering honeymooners a chance to sink deeper into post-wedded bliss. Whether it’s a sunset boat ride along the Seine, starlit city views from the Eiffel Tower, or strolling through elegant neighborhoods, Paris lives up to the hype. Of course, French food is also famous the world over, and no trip to Paris would be complete without the quintessential candlelit dinners, pastries, and cream-laden dishes.
Got more time on your trip? We recommend going on a day trip to the spectacular Palace of Versailles, where you can walk in the footsteps of Marie Antoinette herself. After discovering the historical complex, make sure to allocate some time for a mouthwatering lunch at one of the nearby Michelin-star restaurants.
Where to Stay in Paris
As one of the best honeymoon destinations in Europe, Paris isn’t short of beautiful places to stay. However, the one area that really shines above all others is the colorful Montmartre. This neighborhood is made up of steep streets and beautiful townhouses, home to artists, theater enthusiasts, and musicians.
5. Sicily, Italy
If Sicily could win an award, it would be ‘the cultural gem of the Mediterranean Sea’, with so much history, architecture, and beautiful nature to discover. Start in the hectic yet infectious Palermo for a lively city break, exploring diverse neighborhoods and incredible street food markets. From here, rent a car and drive the ocean roads East or West of the island, stopping only to discover the turquoise water and white sandy beaches.
As if a road trip isn’t already romantic enough, throw in some charming hilltop towns, volcanoes, and vineyards, and you’re onto a true winner; it’s one of the ultimate honeymoon destinations in Europe!
We recommend to rent a car in Sicily through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here.
Where to Stay in Sicily, Italy
Where you stay in Sicily on your European honeymoon depends on what you’re looking for. If you’re looking for bustling bars, great restaurants, and a melting pot of cultural influences, then the capital of Palermo is the place for you.
6. Iceland
Up amongst the best honeymoon destinations in Europe are the wild and windswept landscapes of spectacular Iceland. Offering the perfect vacation for adventurers, the country spans diverse landscapes, from volcanos, rock formations, and hot springs to roaring waterfalls and wildflower meadows.
Depending on the time of year, newlyweds can look forward to many unforgettable experiences, such as walking amongst glaciers and ice caves or bathing in steaming geothermal pools.
Although there are plenty of great hotels to be found in Iceland, the best way to discover its remote nature is in a campervan. Cozy up under the stars with the potential to see the northern lights if you time it right. Wake up to views of black sand beaches, epic cliffs, and deep rifted valleys with only wild horses to keep you company.
Where to Stay in Iceland
Camp in your van in some of the most rural spots on the island, or choose a luxurious hotel in the capital of Reykjavik, where you’ll find all the greatest restaurants and cafes.
Seydisfjordur is also an excellent option for your stay in Iceland, a small artist’s town which is a bit of a hidden gem.
7. Malta
Malta offers something totally unique for a honeymoon destination in Europe; a place where island living combines with ancient Mediterranean cities (with an extra sprinkle of English charm thrown in!).
Outside of the capital, discover some of the most gorgeous beaches across the three main islands of Malta. The islands of Gozo and Comino are perfect for exploring by boat for lazy days of sunbathing and snorkeling.
Where to Stay in Malta
For a bustling city scene, we recommend basing yourself in Valetta, where you’ll find plenty of luxury hotels and fantastic restaurants.
Just across the water is the charming area of Birgu, which offers similar options with fewer crowds. Alternatively, for a beach escape, choose one of the resorts on the coast.
The ‘calas’ (small coves) are famous for their large-pebbled beaches and exceptionally clear water, which make them a haven for swimming and snorkeling. Find a secret spot to sunbathe on one of the rocky outcrops that lay just off the shore and enjoy a long Spanish lunch at one of the clifftop restaurants nearby.
If you’re looking for culture and nightlife when choosing your Europe honeymoon destination, than visit the picturesque city of Palma. The city is home to beautiful architecture and an up-and-coming luxury dining scene.
Where to Stay in Mallorca, Spain
If you’re looking to hire a car and discover the island, then base yourself in the capital of Palma.
To enjoy the beaches of Mallorca, choose Port de Soller, with its charming marina and sandy beaches. Alternatively, head for the artist’s village of Deia, coveted by the rich and famous.
9. Algarve, Portugal
Adventurous honeymooners rejoice! A road trip around the Algarve in Portugal offers one of the best honeymoon destinations in Europe! With a spectacular coastline of winding ocean roads and Atlantic vistas, it’s the perfect place to get behind the wheel. We recommend hiring a campervan, so you can explore incredible nature by day and sleep under the stars by night.
We recommend to rent a car in Portugal through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here.
The southern area of the Algarve is undoubtedly romantic, with charming fishing villages to explore, just a stone’s throw from yellow-sand beaches. For a little bit of action, grab your wetsuit and try your hand at surfing or head out by kayak to some of the epic sea caves that are located among the craggy cliffs.
Where to Stay in the Algarve, Portugal
If you’re not traveling by campervan and want a greater variety of hotel options, we suggest staying in lively Lagos. For something more chilled, choose the surfer’s paradise of Sagres or the charming fishing villages Ferragudo or Carvoeiro.
If you’ve got a home on wheels, you’ll have endless spots to camp out, particularly on the west coast, where it’s much quieter.
Alternative: Douro Valley
Want a Portuguese honeymoon that’s different from the Algarve? Consider the rolling vineyards, deep valleys, and wide rivers of the Douro Valley region.
10. Provence, France
Provence: a storybook setting of fragrant lavender fields, vibrant sunflowers, lush vineyards, and hilltop villages. This charming area of southern France has romance at its core and is no doubt one of the most fantastic honeymoon destinations in Europe!
We recommend hiring a car to explore the region, driving between chocolate box villages, quaint streams, and lavender and sunflower fields that spread as far as the eye can see. Once the exploring is done, relax and unwind at one of the many excellent countryside restaurants in the region. Here, you can enjoy a decadent lunch of French specialties, a glass of champagne, or a tasting of the area’s finest wines.
To travel around Provence we recommend renting a car in France at Sunny Cars. Free cancellation up to 1 hour before rental start and all insurance is included (so no surprises when you pick up your car). Book your rental car here.
Yearning for the ocean? Provence also has a stunning coastline and is particularly famous for the French Riviera. This stretch of beautiful beaches is home to dazzling sea and colorful towns that reach as far as the Italian border.
Where to Stay in Provence, France
There are plenty of accommodation options when it comes to deciding where to stay in Provence.
Choose one of the many hilltop villages as your base, such as Oppede or Gordes. Alternatively, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is a fantastic option, situated on the edge of a dramatic rockface.
Tip: If you want to see the lavender fields in Provence, make sure to book your honeymoon for July/August. During this time, the fields are at their finest.
11. South Tyrol, Austria
Live out your Sound of Music dreams on a honeymoon to Austria! The incredible region of South Tyrol lies across the Austrian/Italian/Swiss border, offering dramatic snow-capped mountains, gorgeous lakes, and flower-filled meadows.
In the winter, this becomes a snow-covered wonderland, offering a myriad of winter sports for honeymooners who want to ski by day and hot tub by night. In the summer, these mountains turn into a sunshine playground, where visitors can explore the vineyards, apple orchards, and medieval castles — cycling, hiking, or even riding by mountain scooter!
Tip: For something unique on your honeymoon in South Tyrol, fly in a hot air balloon over the tranquil landscapes (one of the most unforgettable experiences!).
Where to Stay in South Tyrol, Austria
The area of Kaiserwinkl is the perfect spot to base yourself on your honeymoon. This region is under the radar still, so you’ll have the beautiful landscapes almost to yourself (except for the occasional rambling hiker or mountain cow!).
There are four storybook villages in the area, home to traditional mountain chalets with easy access to the mountains and lakes.
12. Granada, Spain
Granada is truly magic, taking one of the top spots on our list of the best honeymoon destinations in Europe. As you wander through the steep cobbled streets, you’ll be transported back in time to the reign of the Moors, when Spain was under Islamic rule. Moorish architecture is found in every crevice of the city. From the stone carvings of the awe-inspiring Alhambra Palace to the narrow alleys and colorful textiles of the Alcaceira Moroccan bazaar.
The Alhambra Palace is the main draw for visitors, dominating the skyline and bordered by the Sierra Nevada mountains in the distance (book tickets here). We recommend heading for the ancient Albaicin neighborhood to get fantastic views of the palace. You can dine on tapas while you listen to flamenco music floating through the streets. Plus, if you need to cool off, you’ll find a refreshing mountain river where locals come to swim.
Where to Stay in Granada, Spain
Due to the preservation of the city center, you’ll find all the bigger luxury hotels on the outskirts of town. However, there are lovely boutique options in the old town close to the cathedral. Alternatively, choose from El Albaicin (the oldest and most bohemian neighborhood with views of the Alhambra) or El Realejo (the trendy and colorful Jewish Quarter).
If city living isn’t what you have in mind for your honeymoon, stay in one of the famous white villages of Andalusia that are dotted across the hilltops outside of Granada.
13. Albanian Riviera
One of the more affordable honeymoon destinations in Europe is the underrated and jaw-droppingly beautiful Albanian Riviera. Just across the water from Greece, you’ll find the similar pebble beaches, clear, turquoise water, and delicious cocktails you would of more popular Greek Island destinations. However, unlike its neighbor, Albania is still relatively untrodden, meaning fewer crowds and lower prices!
Sunbathe on the beautiful beaches, discover ancient Ottoman towns, swim in crystal-clear lagoons and rivers, or discover the nearby mountains (likened to the scenery of Switzerland), which are just a short drive away.
Tip: For the ultimate honeymoon, begin your trip island hopping in Greece, ending in Corfu, before taking a ferry across to Albania for a week of off-the-radar discovery.
Where to Stay in the Albanian Riviera
Ksamil or Himare are both great coastal towns to base yourself in on your honeymoon to the Albanian Riviera. Both have wonderful beaches, great accommodation options, and excellent restaurants.
14. Tuscany, Italy
No honeymoon list would be complete without romantic Tuscany, one of Italy’s most elegant and famous regions. Stay in an agriturismo (one of the many farm stays that pepper the valleys) to enjoy the slow-paced Tuscan lifestyle. It’s a beautiful experience where days merge into one as you lounge by the pool, read in the shade to the dulcet tones of cicadas, and enjoy fresh pasta and locally-sourced wine at lunch.
When the mood strikes for exploration, hire a car to explore the beautiful hilltop towns, coastal villages, and luscious vineyards nearby.
We recommend to rent a car in Italy through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here.
Alternative Honeymoon: Umbria
As an underrated alternative to Tuscany, head for its lesser-known neighbor: Umbria! This landlocked region offers all the same beauty as Tuscany without the high prices or crowds. Spend up to a week seeing its ancient towns, wild horses, and expansive lakes.
Where to Stay in Tuscany
A tour of all the best spots in Tuscany makes for a fantastic honeymoon in Europe. Fly into one of the bigger cities like Pisa, Florence, or Siena, where you’ll find oodles of culture, world-class dining, and some of the most memorable architecture. From here, head for an Agriturismo in the countryside or base yourself in small villages like Montemerano.
15. Lofoten Islands, Norway
Get cozy in the Lofoten Islands in Norway — the ultimate winter honeymoon destination in Europe!
This breathtaking spot unites both action and relaxation; the more adventurous can head outside for wildlife safaris, hiking, horse back riding and climbing, and the relaxed honeymooners can simply just curl up in their cabin by the fire, admiring the scenery from the warmth of home.
The traditional fishing cabins by the sea, known as Rorbus in Norwegian, are the perfect place to do just this, with incredible vistas of dramatic fjords, snow-covered fields, and even the chance to see the Northern Lights from the comfort of your bed!
Tip: You’ll have the best chance of seeing the northern lights from September to March, so consider this when planning your honeymoon adventure in Norway.
Where to Stay in the Lofoten Islands, Norway
Svolvaer and Leknes are the main towns, where you’ll find many restaurants and cafes. Alternatively, choose any of the small fishing villages like Reine, Hamnøy, and Å, which are all incredibly picturesque and tranquil.
You can feel like you’re at the end of the earth in the Lofoten Islands but in the best possible way!
16. Azores Islands, Portugal
Explore the dramatic and untouched landscapes of the Azores Islands (900 miles off the coast of Portugal!). These volcanic Atlantic islands are filled with spectacular natural beauty, whether it’s incredible sunsets, star-filled skies, hot springs, stunning grassy mountains, or cerulean lakes. Known fondly as ‘The Hawaii of Europe’, it’s easy to see why from the wild landscapes. However, it’s also got plenty of adventure activities on offer, from coasteering and canyoning to deep sea kayaking.
Where to Stay in the Azores Islands, Portugal
With nine islands, there are plenty of options to choose from, each one as unique as the next. Most people choose the largest island of São Miguel, opting for the luxury clifftop resorts with crystalline infinity pools on the coast.
Alternatively, base yourself in the island’s capital of Ponta Delgada, which has excellent restaurants and is a good jumping-off point to explore the rest of the island(s).
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