— — Intro: After months, maybe even years, of planning, stressing and saving for their wedding, couples can finally kick back and relax on their honeymoon.
In the United States alone, an estimated 1.4 million people go on honeymoons each year, and in the past five years, 75% of newlyweds have chosen to vacation in the United States or Canada.
But what about the other 25 percent?
Europe is a popular honeymoon choice, but with a continent rich in diversity and destinations, where should you go? From the food, wine and dolce vita atmosphere of the Amalfi Coast to the luxurious tranquility of the Greek Islands, here are seven of Europe’s best honeymoon destinations.
quicklist: 1title: 1. Santorinitext: With its whitewashed buildings, rustic coastal walkways, stunning Aegean views and delicious seafood, Santorini is the ideal place to unwind from wedding stress.
Here you can swim and snorkel on your chartered yacht, explore the island’s pretty villages, dine in traditional trattorias, and, thanks to the mild climate, spend as much time as you like on the beautiful beaches.
Popular with celebrities, this Greek island offers a generally slower paced honeymoon. Media: 48911254
quicklist: 2title:2. Florencetext: Florence, the capital of Tuscany, is the perfect honeymoon base, combining urban culture with beautiful countryside.
Wandering around the city is the best way to soak up its atmospheric charm: must-see attractions include the Duomo, San Marco Museum, Palazzo Vecchio, and the Uffizi Gallery. From Michelangelo to mozzarella, art and cuisine are two of Florence’s greatest loves, and you’ll find fine dining even in the simplest family restaurant.
After exploring the city, head into the Tuscan hills on a tour of the Chianti Trail, where red wine and sunsets provide the ultimate romantic experience. Media: 48910888
quicklist: 3title:3. Amalfi Coasttext: Although the Amalfi Coast is a hugely popular tourist destination, the attractions in this beautiful region are fairly spread out, so you won’t have to spend your honeymoon jostling shoulder to shoulder with other couples.
Charming and quintessentially Italian, the Amalfi Coast is full of hidden bays, stunning cliff walks and quaint villages, or you can take a scenic drive along it. Some of the best views come from the road between Positano and Ravello, where lush landscapes tucked away with olive groves, secret forests and historic buildings.
For a romantic day trip, take a hydrofoil from Positano to the island of Capri, where Dolce Vita style lives on. Media: 48910646
quicklist: 4title:4. Amsterdamtext: While Santorini and the Amalfi Coast offer perfect weather and amazing beaches (and much more), neither is guaranteed in Amsterdam. However, summers in the Netherlands are generally warm and sunny.
But what Holland’s most famous city has to offer are its charming cobbled streets, beautiful canals, fantastic parks, rich culture and vibrant nightlife.
Amsterdam may have a reputation as a party mecca, but don’t let that put you off. Beyond the red light district, the city is bursting with romance. Whether you’re cycling through the quaint Jordaan district, taking a paddle boat ride on the Amstel River and its canals, or strolling through the narrow, tree-lined streets, this city is perfect for a whimsical honeymoon getaway. Media: 48910696
quicklist: 5title:5. Antibestext: The Côte d’Azur is dotted with picturesque locations, but few are as romantic as Antibes.
Located just a short drive from Nice and Cannes, the town has been beloved by artists such as Monet and Picasso, so it’s no wonder they were inspired by its beauty: its narrow streets brimming with floral displays and hidden gardens are a sight to behold.
Behind the town walls, harbour walls where the superyachts of the rich and famous are moored, hide a tiny sandy beach that gets very lively in summer.
Another great thing about Antibes is its location. On one hand, it has fine restaurants, relaxing walks, artsy hideaways and some of the nicest wine bars on the Riviera, but on the other, it also has beaches in abundance, including the long Plage du Ponteil and the relatively quiet and peaceful Plage des Ondes. Media: 48910746
quicklist: 6title:6. Dubrovniktext: Croatia is no longer the hidden gem of Europe, but I still feel like I discover something new every time I visit.
With a mix of beautiful beaches, medieval old towns and clear blue waters, Croatia is an obvious choice for couples looking for a romantic honeymoon destination. We recommend the city of Dubrovnik, which has developed into Croatia’s luxurious capital.
Wander through the pedestrianised Old Town and visit ancient churches and medieval walls, or spend the day on the beautiful beaches surrounded by the clear waters of the Adriatic Sea.
Don’t forget to island-hop to the nearby Elaphiti Islands. Snorkeling and diving are encouraged on the way between destinations. Media: 48910796
quicklist: 7title:7. Londontext: Known as the city of love, Paris is an obvious choice for a honeymoon destination. But London needs a bit more help. That’s because while the city’s cultural attractions (free museums, art galleries, historical landmarks) are well known, its romantic side is often a bit forgotten.
In fact, romance is everywhere, from the picturesque Regent’s Canal and its quaint floating bookshops to the rolling hills of Hampstead Heath.
Plus, don’t miss the Columbia Road Flower Market on weekends. Plus, enjoy the glamorous nightlife of Soho. It also has some of the most romantic hotels in Europe. Media: 48911377
