Cote d’Azur, France

Romance ripples across the impossibly blue seas of the Cote d’Azur, also known as the French Riviera. From the semi-enclave of Monaco to cinematic Cannes, the towns of the Riviera shimmer with glamour and intrigue. The stretches of coastal road between peppered in lavender fields, Roman ruins and provincial villages. A foodie’s paradise, the Cote d’Azur worships local produce. Of course, wine is also a staple of the region, and a particular draw for couples in search of vintage pours. One of our favourite towns of the Riviera is Juan-les-Pins, a destination for Michelin starred dining, leafy vineyards visits, private yachting adventures and sun-kissed seaside relaxation. Juan-les-Pins’ majestic Hôtel Belles Rives features its own private beach and sunbeds along its exclusive jetty.

Greece’s Peloponnese enchants with its celestial and mythological past. It is from this picturesque peninsula that Paris and Helen of Troy eloped. Stretches of untouched sand and gorgeous coves embracing a cobalt sea, Peloponnese’s coastline exudes barefoot luxury. Not far from the beaches, ancient ruins and wonderful walkways abound. The peninsula’s vineyards are driving Greece‘s wine renaissance and food here is among the country’s best. One of our favourite seaside resorts in Peloponnese is the The Romanos, a Luxury Collection Resort. The resort makes for the perfect couple’s getaway, offering award-winning spa treatments under ancient olive groves, a secluded beach, poolside relaxation and state of the art golf courses.

When it comes to romance in Spain, the city of San Sebastian has it all. Whether you’re looking to take in the Spanish culture or relax on soft golden beaches, San Sebastian is the place to be. Wrapped around the Bay of Biscay and fringed by lush hillsides plunging into bright blue waters, the city is a fanciful wonderland. With more Michelin stars per square metre than anywhere else in the world, San Sebastian is a destination for the gourmands. From exquisite fine dining to casual pintxos, San Sebastian offers unparalleled gastronomic experiences. It also makes for an excellent base to explore the seaside villages of Basque Country beyond. Hotel Lasala Plaza is one of our favourite luxury hotels in the city, offering incredible ocean views from its rooftop pool.

It’s tough to pick just one destination along the Amalfi Coast as the most romantic. Amour surrounds you along this idyllic coastline, where rugged cliffs plunge into the turquoise Tyrrhenian Sea, adorned in pastel-hued villages and fragrant woodlands. Quintessentially Italian, the dramatic landscapes of the Amalfi Coast are defined by their aromatic lemon groves and cliffside wineries. Through the cobbled streets of Sorrento to the Michelin-starred al fresco restaurants of Ravello, every Amalfi town tells its own love story. Hop on a Vespa with your loved one and wind your way along the coast’s iconic seaside roads, stumbling upon hidden coves and quaint beaches.

Romance trickles across the burgundy cliffs, whitewashed towns and pristine beaches of the Algarve. The Mediterranean sun bathes the region’s olive groves, lush vineyards and manicured golf courses. The lapping waves of the Atlantic invite thrilling water sports adventures. The traditional tavernas of the south coast create gourmet treats and drinks, providing an authentic Portuguese dining experience. Whether you’re a couple in search of a luxury resort or a private villa stay, the Algarve promises to satisfy. Conrad Algarve is one of our favourite romantic resorts in the region, situated within the golfer’s paradise of Quinta do Lago and surrounded by beautiful beaches and the Ria Formosa National Park.

A medieval walled city perched on the shores of the Adriatic, get ready to fall in love with Dubrovnik. There are endless magical experiences to be had in this historic city. Take a romantic stroll through the limestone streets encased by baroque buildings. Feast on intimate dinners overlooking the crystalline waters that sparkle in the Mediterranean sun. Board a private yacht and island-hop through the stunning beaches of the Dalmatian coast. From charming private villas to cliffside luxury hotels like the Hotel Bellevue, Dubrovnik is ready to cater to your next romantic getaway.

Santorini’s endless coastline, ruinous marble temples and vibrant Greek culture come together to create the perfect romantic getaway for any couple seeking beauty and seclusion. The architecture of Santorini is legendary, with blue domes, volcanic sands and whitewashed houses creating a beautiful landscape set against the romantic hues of the iconic pastel sunsets. The second most famous of the Cycladic Islands, Santorini is immediately recognisable, even to those who have not visited. Its capital, Fira, is set on the caldera’s edge, with spectacular views of the still active Nea Kameni Volcano.

Other smaller villages that are worth visiting during your holiday to the island are Akrotiri and Messa Vouno, both famed for their archaeological sites. On a luxury holiday to Santorini, dine on fresh seafood and traditional Greek cuisine in waterfront tavernas, explore the remnants of a pre-historic city or sit back in pure bliss, taking in the beauty of this island in the sparkling Aegean Sea.

Dubbed one of the most romantic places in the world, Cinque Terre is a stretch of spectacular coastline along Liguria’s coast and the Italian Riveria. Known as Northern Italy’s most attractive coast, it is renowned for its clear turquoise waters, multicoloured clifftop houses and Italian sophistication. Here, you can explore cobbled squares and cliff-top fortresses to a backdrop of the bright blues of the Mediterranean Sea. Staying in a luxurious property, spend your short break surrounded by breathtaking sea views and experience days defined by uninterrupted bliss.

Luxury holidays to Montenegro have become a must for seaside splendour in Europe, and its fjord-positioned town of Kotor oozes rustic romance. Taking its place amidst a winding string of rugged limestone cliffs plummeting towards the sparkling Adriatic, the town of Kotor is a truly captivating sight. Dotted along the shoreline of Europe’s most southerly fjord, the medieval town exudes a wonderful Venetian influence. Stroll the UNESCO Heritage town and its romantic square, admiring medieval cathedrals, palaces and museums. On a luxury holiday to Kotor, prepare for beachside relaxation, tranquil boat trips on the Adriatic and scenic al fresco dinners. We especially recommend privately guided explorations such as picturesque hiking around the bay and excursions to local vineyards and olive groves.