Italy is considered one of the most romantic places in the world. There are so many romantic places in Italy to choose from. Strolling through ancient cities like Rome or enjoying the coastal views in Manarola are ideal ways to spend time as a couple.
I partnered with other travel bloggers to bring you the most romantic places in Italy so you can plan your romantic getaway!
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Romantic Places in Northern Italy
Bellagio on Lake Como
Recommended by Joanna of The World in my Pocket
Bellagio is one of the most romantic destinations on Lake Como. This beautiful village will guarantee you plenty of memorable moments alongside your loved one. For a romantic stay in Bellagio, you must pick Villa Serbelloni, a unique hotel inside a historical building with gorgeous landscaped gardens and incredible views over the lake and the snow-capped mountains beyond. Even if it’s a small village, there are plenty of things to do in Bellagio. Start your day with breakfast at one of the cute cafes in town overlooking the lake, and then explore the beautiful narrow streets leading to the most famous viewpoint in Bellagio, which you will find at top of Salita Serbelloni street.
Another great villa that has its gardens open to visitors is Villa Melzi. Dating from Napoleon’s era, the villa has impressive gardens which make for a romantic stroll along the lake.
For dinner pick a restaurant with a view and don’t be shy of trying the local specialties of the area, the risotto with fried perch, a fish that lives in Lake Como.
Getting to Bellagio is pretty easy. You can take the train from Milano to Varenna, and then cross over by ferry. The other alternative, much longer though, is to take the train to Como, and then enjoy a two hour scenic ferry ride to Bellagio. You can also take the hydrofoil from Como, which is faster and takes around one hour.
Cinqui Torri
Recommended by Morgan of Crave the Planet
If fresh alpine air, breathtaking natural landscapes, building up a light sweat with a romantic hike, and savoring candlelit dinners on the top of a mountain seem romantic to you, there’s no better adventure than visiting the Cinque Torri in the heart of the Italian Dolomites.
This stunning rock formation of 5 massive towers is only a short 2-3 hour drive from Venice and is located within the Natural Park of the Ampezzo mountains.
If you are curious about the adventure style of romantic travel, check out this hiking podcast list that includes full episodes dedicated to how to hike to the Cinque Torri.
Typically people will take a daypack and hike up to the Cinque Torri from the town of Cortina d’Ampezzo, or they will stop there while on the multi-day Alta Via 1 long-distance hike. You can take a ski gondola or a taxi from Cortina if hiking isn’t your thing. You’ll follow signs to the Rigufio Scoiattoli.
To level up your romantic experience, book a stay at the Averau hütte mountain lodge. It’s located about 30 minutes walking uphill from Cinque Torri. The candlelit dinners, comfortable beds, and sunrise and sunset views cannot be beaten for a romantic experience. Cinque Torri offers a romantic destination that is truly off the beaten path.
Cortina d’Ampezzo
Recommended by Catrina of 24 Hours Layover
Cortina d’Ampezzo – located in the stunning Ampezzo Valley of the Italian Dolomites is one of the most romantic places in Italy! Perfect for couples who love the outdoors, Cortina is known as one of the world’s most popular mountain destinations and there are so many things to do in Cortina d’Ampezzo – whether you’re here in the summer for the spectacular hiking trails and views, or in the winter for the skiing, snow and vibrant Christmas atmosphere.
A lovely romantic activity to do together is to get the cable car up to the mountains – the views from the top are absolutely stunning! There are even some restaurants at the top where you can relax and spend the day together! If you’re here in the winter and both enjoy skiing, Cortina has some of the best skiing in the Alps. If skiing’s not your thing yet you want to do something fun and romantic in the snow – consider tobogganing!
If you’d prefer to admire the mountains from below, visit the pedestrianized main street of Cortina – Corso Italia. Cortina is a lively town and there are plenty of romantic restaurants, cafes and wine bars with terraces for you to relax and enjoy the views with an Aperol spritz with your loved one!
The nearest airport to Cortina is in Venice – less than a 2-hour drive away. You can also reach Cortina by train or bus from Venice.
Genoa
Recommended by Dymphe of Dymabroad
One of the most romantic places in Italy is the city of Genoa. This is a city that is the capital of the region of Liguria and you can find it on the Italian Riviera. There is an international airport to get to the city by airplane. Besides that, there are good train connections to other major cities in the country, such as Pisa and Milan. Genoa is a beautiful city with a lot of historic buildings that are great to see. For example, you can find Piazza De Ferrari in the city, which is a large square with historic buildings that surround it. Furthermore, the Aquarium of Genoa can be romantic to visit in the Old Harbour of Genoa. At this aquarium, you can find more than 10,000 animals that include fish, birds, dolphins, and many other species.
The Royal Palace Museum can be great to visit as well. This is a very beautiful historic palace from the 17th century where you can see art and interesting architecture. Another romantic activity in Genoa is trying out local Genoese food, such as Focaccia. Furthermore, shopping can be great to do in Genoa and a large shopping street for that is Via XX Settembre. Also, you can find Genoa close to the area of Cinque Terre, which is a very beautiful area.
Lake Garda
Recommended by Lowri of Many Other Roads
Lake Garda is one of the most romantic places in Italy. It’s surrounded by charming villages and medieval towns, impressive mountains and lush green valleys – all perfect spots to take your loved one on a romantic getaway.
You can easily reach Lake Garda from all over Europe and beyond thanks to the many budget airlines that arrive at Verona airport. But if you are exploring other parts of Italy before you head towards Lake Garda, the best way is to arrive by train.
For those looking for an extra special romantic experience, take a boat tour around the lake and admire its vast beauty from the water. Stop off at one of the quaint little towns or villages dotted along its shoreline to explore some local attractions or simply sit and sip on a glass of wine whilst enjoying spectacular views.
When the sun goes down, head to one of the many restaurants perched on the edge of the lake – think cozy candlelit dinners, delicious Italian food and an idyllic backdrop.
If you’re looking for a romantic escape, then look no further than Lake Garda – an unforgettable destination full of charm and beauty. Whether you’re looking to take boat trips, explore quaint towns or simply relax by the lake – this is the perfect place for a dreamy Italian getaway.
Lake Maggiore
Recommended by Samanta of CocoTravels
Lake Maggiore is the second-largest lake in Italy. It’s quieter than some of the more well-known lakes, which means it’s the perfect spot for a romantic holiday. As it is so large, there are many different places to stay around its shores, offering you lots of options when it comes to accommodation.
The nearest international airport is Milan Malpensa which you can fly directly into from the UK and other countries. From the airport, it’s around an hour’s drive to Lake Maggiore. You can rent a car from the airport, or you can catch the train or bus, depending on where you’re staying.
Luino is one of the larger towns on the lake and is an excellent place to stay thanks to its brilliant rail and ferry links.
One of the most romantic things to do in Lake Maggiore is to visit the town of Cannobio. This is a beautiful Italian town that you can get the ferry to from Luino. Admire the colourful buildings as you come in to port, wander the coastline hand in hand and head to the lido on the beach if you fancy a swim. There are also plenty of places to stop for an Aperol spritz and enjoy the views out to sea.
If you’ve got a head for heights then the bucket lifts at Laveno are a great choice for you and your loved one. Squeeze into the open-top buckets together while you admire the spectacular views over the lake as you ascend 3848 feet to Mount Sasso del Ferro.
Lake Orta (Lago d’Orta)
Recommended by Lori of Italy Foodies
If you’ve always wanted to explore Italy’s lakes, but are looking for a more intimate destination with less crowds, Lake Orta (Lago d’Orta) is truly one of the most romantic places in Italy.
Located in Italy’s northern Piedmont region, the landscape here is mountainous with historic villages and monasteries that date back centuries. In fact, the highlight of Lake Orta is the beautiful island of Isola San Giulio that takes center stage in the middle of the lake.
The town of Orta San Giulio makes a good base from which to see the rest of the lake. It’s a 5 minute boat ride to the island and is perfect for a romantic getaway. In 2 or 3 days, you can stroll the historic sites of Orta San Giulio and dine on some of the best food in the Piedmont region.
There are several excellent restaurants around Piazza Motta (2 Michelin-starred) and plenty of cafes and wine bars to lounge at for Aperitivo while you take in the scene.
Piedmont is also one of Italy’s most prolific wine regions, so book a guided wine tour to several surrounding wineries.
The Hotel Rocco San Giulio is one of the oldest and most luxurious hotels in town, and is a good choice for a romantic getaway. They can also help arrange local private tours of the lake just for the two of you.
Manarola, Cinque Terre
Recommended by Me, The Directionally Challenged Traveler
The beautiful region of Cinque Terre is known for its colorful houses along the coastline. The small five towns are a great romantic getaway in Italy – but my preferred town is the hillside town of Manarola. The colorful houses dot the steep marina cliffs.
From hiking in the mountains to swimming in the ocean, there are so many things to do in Manarola. It’s easy to stroll down the narrow streets, like Via Renato Birolli and find something to enjoy. Whether it’s handmade pasta or the perfect souvenir to bring home, these shops are all locally owned. Manarola is less touristy than the other Cinque Terre towns making it one of the best places in Italy for couples.
For a romantic dinner featuring locally sourced ingredients and an ocean view, visit Aristide. Many of the wines are from the wineries up the mountains, making them crisp and fresh! Winemaking is considered heroic here because of the difficult terrain. Everything has to be done by hand – a unique experience in the wine making world.
Milan
Recommended by Kristin of Global Travel Escapades
If you’re looking for a romantic place to visit that doesn’t involve Italy’s coastal beaches, consider taking a trip to Italy’s version of the City of Love, Milan. This vibrant city not only promises delicious food but also offers couples plenty of romantic things to do!
For example, one must-do activity is to wander around Cathedral Square. On one side, you’ll discover the decadent Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. There, you can marvel at the stunning Italian Renaissance architecture and grab a bite to eat at one of its many cafes that overlook the main square. Afterward, you can spend time exploring the Duomo Cathedral and admiring the hundreds of years of work that went into creating the Gothic masterpiece!
And if you’re looking for a romantic evening, take your partner to one of the many restaurants in the Navigli district. This popular area has many bars, features live music from people busking, and even has a couple of canals you can stroll along!
For those interested in visiting, you can fly directly into any of Milan’s three airports! Once at the airport, you can take public transportation into the city. For example, the Malpensa airport has an affordable express train option.
Portofino
Recommended by Alex and Leah of Alex and Leah on Tour
By far one of the most romantic places to visit in Italy is Portofino. Situated on the Ligurian coast, this stunning seaside town is lined by different coloured buildings and is just an amazing place to relax.
The best way to get to Portofino is from Genius. Here you can get a train to S Magherita Ligure-Portofino. Right outside the station is a bus stop that takes you directly to Portofino. However be warned, the bus goes down some windy lanes along the mountainside with a lot of very near misses!
The first romantic activity is to grab some lunch/dinner at Sottocoperta or any of the other restaurants that line the famous and beautiful piazza. Here you enjoy some bubbly, Aperol as well as some tasty pizza or pasta. The view and the atmosphere are incredible and it’s so romantic to experience, both under the night sky or during the day.
It’s also highly recommended to take a walk around the town. This will allow you to pop your head into the designer shops, grab a gelato or two or make your way round to the port and look back on the aesthetically pleasing buildings. You can easily spend hours on the pier watching the world go by.
If you enjoy learning about history together, head up to Castello Brown which overlooks both the Ligurian Sea and the Italian mainland. Overall, Portofino is one of the most romantic places in Italy and certainly lives up to its reputation!
South Tyrol
Recommended by Paul of PaulMarina.com
South Tyrol is in the Italian alps bordering Austria and Switzerland. The region is also known as Italy’s best-kept secret. Here you can expect refreshing mountain air and breathtaking views. Discover the picture-perfect Dolomites mountain range if you enjoy hiking as a couple. One of the most romantic photo spots are the Prags lake, a crystal clear vibrant turquoise lake which comes with snow-capped mountains as a backdrop, and the Resia lake, with the bell tower in the lake. The mild climate produces some of the best fruits, making South Tyrol a top wine terroir region in Europe.
You can book a customized wine-tasting and vineyard tour with your loved one. Most vineyards offer private tours and the owners personally take you around. Visit Bolzano and Meran, two charming medieval towns, known for their craftsmen and local fairs. Look out for small upcoming designer boutiques and shops selling local produce such as Schnapps and Speck. Meran is also the place where the late empress of Austria would cure. The hot thermal springs are rich in minerals, and they have been turned into public pools attached to a sauna village. Just imagine spending quality time with your better half in a hot outdoor pool while sipping on a local glass of white wine on a starry night. To get to South Tyrol take a flight to Innsbruck in Austria, or Milan or Verona in Italy and take a train or hire a car to South Tyrol.
Venice, Italy
Recommended by Me, The Directionally Challenged Traveler
Venice and romance go hand in hand. Countless love stories and movies featuring Venice as the backdrop has inspired travelers to visit here for generations. The floating city has a unique atmosphere not found in other places in Italy.
Getting to Venice is easy by plane, train, or boat! You can fly into Venice’s Marco Polo Airport or Rome’s Leonardo da Vinci airport and take the train to Venice. Many cruise ships also dock in Venice making it a great city to start or end a trip in! Even if you only have one day in Venice, you’ll quickly be enamored with the city.
Venice is the type of city where it’s easy to get lost without really getting lost. The narrow alleys are perfect for wandering, but you can almost always find the towering St. Mark’s Campanile. Enjoy watching the gondolas on Rialto bridge.
A romantic trip to Venice is not complete without a sunset gondola ride. Be sure to kiss as you go under the Bridge of Sighs. Legend has it that couples who kiss under this bridge at sunset on a gondola while the church bells ring will stay in love forever.
Romantic Places in Central Italy
Cortona
Recommended by Renee of Dream Plan Experience
Cortona, a beautiful hilltop town, was made famous by the book Under the Tuscan Sun by Francis Mayes, and then the movie. This beautiful Tuscan town lies in the eastern part of Tuscany, about an hour’s drive from Florence.
Take a slow leisurely stroll and get lost in Cortona’s endless narrow alleyways. The ancient streets twist and turn and almost all lead to a stunning view of the Tuscan countryside. Be curious, and take a peek inside some of Cortona’s many churches spanning the 11th century to the 15th century.
Take a seat at a café in the main square of Piazza della Repubblica. As you sip on your espresso soak in the everyday life of this charming town. Admire the well-preserved 13th-century buildings that line the square – a town hall, clock tower and former palace.
Enjoy a long lunch at Il Facloniere, a 17th-century villa surrounded by cypresses, olive trees and vineyards. This Michelin-starred restaurant serves local hearty Tuscan dishes as well as the estate’s own wine. Be sure to request a table on the outdoor terrace where you will be awarded a gorgeous view of Cortona and the valley.
There is nothing more romantic than spending a day in the elegant town of Cortona.
Florence
Recommended by Me, The Directionally Challenged Traveler
The historic and beautiful city of Florence is easily one of the most romantic places in Italy. A wonderful mixture of picturesque stone bridges cross the River Arno providing great views from most places in the city.
Florence offers all of the quintessential Italian experiences conveniently in one city. Enjoy a glass of Chianti in a piazza, waterfront sunsets, stunning art and architecture, and of course – gelato! Couples can get a different perspective of the city of an Arno cruise. The river Arno cuts through the middle of the city, so you can see a lot of sights from the water. You’ll even go under the famous Ponte Vecchio and Ponte Stana Trinità.
Art-loving couples can enjoy the many art museums in Florence like the Uffizi Gallery and Accademia. Foodie travelers can enjoy a pasta and dessert cooking class to bring home the flavors of Italy.
Be sure to visit the hilltop Piazzale Michelangelo for panoramic views of the city! Seeing the iconic Duomo standing tall among the houses with the mountains in the background is quite the site! For a central hotel with up-close views of the Duomo, stay at the Hotel Bigallo. The staff at the hotel really make this Italian romantic getaway perfect!
Panzano
Recommended by Rachel of Caribbean Uncovered
Panzano in Chianti is a small wine town 20 miles south of Florence, Italy. There are only two ways to get there, by bus or by rental car. The journey there begins your romantic vacation. The ride is quiet, with rolling hills stretching as far as you can see.
When you arrive in Panzano, you won’t see restaurants and hotels. You’ll see locals sipping coffee at the corner market and shop owners pouring wine on their patios.
Panzano is small and simple – it’s the perfect spot to enjoy quality time together and make memories over some of the best wine in the world. There’s one incredibly romantic restaurant in town, Ristorante Oltre il Giardino. The restaurant features candlelit tables and views of the miles of vineyards. Split a bottle of wine and enjoy their classic Florentine steak. Top it off by sharing their dessert of the day.
And of course, you can’t visit this famous wine region without a wine tour. If you can, rent a Vespa or find a local to drive you around to as many wineries as possible! After each wine tasting, you’ll feel more like a sommelier than a tourist.
Learning how they nurture their vines and fields is even more special with someone you love!
If you don’t drink wine, you can stroll around the hills of this little town or enjoy Sundays in Panzano when the wineries shut down and the locals walk to the Sunday Market for fresh produce and bread.
If you love exploring quiet towns, chatting with local shop owners, or taking in all the wine knowledge you can, you’re sure to have an incredible experience in Panzano in Chianti.
Pisa
Recommended by Linda of Hiking the Alps
A truly romantic place in Italy is the small town of Pisa, in Tuscany. In central Italy, just 10km away from the Mediterranean Sea lies the city, with the world-famous tower.
Pisa has its own airport, served by budget airlines such as Ryanair. Alternatively, Florence airport is an hour away, and Genoa’s 2 hours.
The so-called Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles) where the leaning bell tower, the associated Duomo and the Baptisterium stand, is simply magical. Quite a few marriage proposals are made in front of this great backdrop of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. A visit to the leaning tower at sunset is especially romantic. When the day tourists have left the popular sight again and quiet slowly returns, the play of colors of the sun on the historic square is super romantic.
But Pisa has much more to offer than just the leaning bell tower. Another romantic square within the beautiful old town of Pisa is the large Piazza dei Cavalieri. With its impressive medieval buildings, it is definitely one of the most beautiful Renaissance squares in Europe. If you go a little further through the narrow streets of the old town, you will reach the romantic banks of the Arno River. Another place within the beautiful city of Pisa, where you can stroll romantically, for two along the shore.
Positano
Recommended by Lori of Travlinmad
Looking for a romantic trip to Italy? Let’s face it… everywhere in Italy is about love. But if you’re looking for a luxe atmosphere with your beautiful landscape, it’s hard to beat Positano.
Among the many things there are to see and do, the colorful cliffside town offers beautiful beaches and perfect seaside weather most of the year.
Located on the idyllic Amalfi Coast, all the coastal towns like Atrani, Praino, Positano or Amalfi are best reached with the help of private transport. Fly into Naples or take a train from around Italy. From there, a private car splurge will run you about $150 USD, allowing you to relax on the drive to the coast and take in the magical views.
Once in Positano, you can spend your day lounging on the beach but save a day to take a private boat tour along the coast to see the picturesque towns from the sea. Most tours include wine or champagne and bites of local food. And being on the water for the day is the perfect way to experience the Amalfi Coast.
For a romantic dinner, La Tagliata is the perfect place to go. Perched high on the hill above Positano, it’s hard to tell which is better — the food or the incredible view.
Rome
Recommended by Me, The Directionally Challenged Traveler
While not as traditionally beautiful as Venice or Florence, Rome is an underrated destination for couples in Italy. What better place to celebrate your eternal love than in the Eternal City. Rome has survived the test of time, through wars and prosperity, and is still one of the most impressive cities in the world.
Get a panoramic view of the city at the Monumento Nazionale a Vittorio Emanuele in Piazza Venezia. You can even see the Colosseum from there. History-loving couples would enjoy visiting the Colosseum and Roman Forum where you can literally walk through history. Couples who love art should visit Vatican City and take a tour through Vatican Museums to see the Sistine Chapel. Foodies can find a delicious restaurant on almost every corner of the city. Indulge in handmade pasta and the tradition cacio e pepe recipe that dates back to Ancient Rome!
A romantic Italy vacation is not complete until you’ve tossed a coin into the Trevi fountain. While you’ll have to squeeze your way in through the crowds, this is an iconic Roman experience. Toss your coins over your left shoulder while you make a wish. The coins are collected at night and donated to non-profits in Rome.
San Gimignano
Recommended by Denise of Chef Denise
The charming village of San Gimignano is one of the most romantic places in Italy. As soon as you walk through the fortress entrance it feels like you’ve stepped into a fairytale. And what’s more romantic than a fairytale?
San Gimignano is one of the best preserved medieval tower towns and is sometimes called “Medieval Manhattan” and “The Town of Fine Towers.” Meander through the cobbled streets and see if you can find all 14 towers. Walking is definitely the preferred mode of transportation inside the historic center. You must park your car outside the walled city as no cars are allowed inside this UNESCO Heritage Site.
But walking through this amazing village is also one of the most romantic things to do. Peak down the intimate side streets for some of the best vistas of the surrounding countryside dotted with vineyards and cypress trees. Climb to the top of the largest tower, Torre Grosse to get the birds-eye view.
Linger in Piazza Cisterna with its immense well in the middle. Stop for some traditional Tuscan food like a bowl of ribollita (bread and vegetable soup) or pappardelle (the regional pasta). Or try one of the most popular Tuscan desserts, cantucci (a hard cookie) traditionally served with the sweet wine, vin Santo.
There is no train station here, so driving is the best way to get to San Gimignano which is about an hour from Florence.
Siena
Recommended by Linn of Brainy Backpackers
One of the most romantic cities to visit in Italy is Siena in Tuscany. Situated only an hour south of Florence, many travelers only go on a day trip. But there is a lot to do in the city and spending more than one day in Siena gives you the chance to take in the romantic medieval town center even more. Among the top things you must do is to have a drink on Piazza del Campo, one of the most iconic squares in Italy with its shell shape. Climb the Torre del Mangia for sweeping views, and one of the highest towers in Italy at 102 meters.
Siena Cathedral is also a must-visit and a spectacular example of Romanesque-Gothic architecture. But one of the most romantic things to do in Siena is to walk around the medieval streets after dark when warm, yellow street lights light up the narrow cobbled streets and alleys. There are so many enchanting places to go for a romantic dinner with homemade local food and Tuscan wine. Siena is easily reached by car, but you will have to park outside the historic center. Taking the train takes an hour and a half from Florence or Pisa airports, which are the closest, and about 2 and a half hours by bus.
Romantic Places in Southern Italy
Matera
Recommended by Milijana of World Travel Connector
The stone-carved city of Matera in southern Italy is one of the most romantic places in Italy.
Stunning Matera in southern Italy is a World Heritage City. The sensational landscapes of Matera are unique and unseen in Italy.
The cave homes and cave churches, stone-cut monasteries, stone palaces, and stone houses of Matera leave visitors speechless. The spectacular Matera was a filming location of many movies, like Passion of Jesus Christ by Mel Gibson and James Bond’s No Time to Die. So if you want to see one of the most spectacular cities in the world and feel like being in a movie set, head to Matera.
There are many amazing things to do in Matera for romantic souls. However, sleeping in a cave in Matera is an unforgettable experience that anyone needs to have on their bucket list. So, book your room in a cave hotel in the Sassi Caveoso di Matera district, and you will cherish memories of Matera for the rest of your life.
There are about 150 rock-cut churches in Matera. Sightseeing the most famous rock-cut churches is among the best things to do in Matera. However, Matera is not only about history and cultural heritage. For an adrenaline boost, walk across the suspending Tibetan bridge on the Ravine River and hike the trails of Parco della Murgia.
And when the night comes down, book a table in the classy Regiacorte – Restaurant & Lounge Terrace for a romantic dinner in Matera. The restaurant has an outstanding outside sitting area with magical views of Matera. It is a must-visit for romantic souls and lovers of fine cuisine.
Matera is close to the city of Bari in southern Italy. Karol Wojtyla International Airport in Bari is the nearest airport to Matera. Matera is only one hour drive from Bari.
Ravello
Recommended by Olivia of Inspired by Croatia
Ravello, the stunning little town perched at the top of a steep hill on the Amalfi Coast is one of Italy’s most romantic spots. With its showstopping scenery and sweeping vistas of the Tyrrhenian Sea, Ravello is a hidden gem worth seeking out. From the moment you arrive in Ravello you will be captivated by the greenery. Umbrella pines spread across the entire town and perfectly manicured gardens provide a nice break from the hustle and bustle of other Italian cities.
Getting to Ravello is quite easy, with buses running regularly throughout the day from nearby Amalfi and Positano, both of which can be reached by train or car. It is also a great way to extend a combined trip to Italy and Croatia with inexpensive Ryanair flights running daily to the nearby Naples airport.
When you arrive in Ravello, there are plenty of things to see and do. One of the highlights is Villa Cimbrone, which boasts heart-stopping views overlooking the sea and makes for an incredibly romantic location. You can also take a stroll around the town and browse the local ceramic shops, or hike the scenic clifftop path to Minori.
Another must-see spot for romantics visiting Ravello is Villa Rufolo, an old 13th-century palace that overlooks the mountains and sea. Its romantic atmosphere is enhanced by its lavish gardens and stunning architecture. Taking a stroll through its grounds at sunset is a truly special experience – one you won’t soon forget.
Overall, Ravello is a truly romantic town that is sure to take your breath away. Its enchanting gardens and incredible views of the sea make it an ideal destination for couples looking to experience some Italian romance.
Romantic Places in Italy: Islands
Capri
Recommended by Mari of Mari on the Map
While falling in love in Capri is up to you, falling in love with Capri is easy. From sweeping vistas over the sea to private boat excursions on the turquoise waters to long, lingering dinners alfresco over the island’s signature dishes, there’s so much to love. The romance begins on your ride to Capri from the mainland of Italy by ferry (Naples is the closest/easiest port). From there, choose your own adventure on the seas or in the sky. Rent a private speed boat at the docks (you only need to present a drivers license to do so) and head out onto the water for a few hours–ideally with a picnic in tow. It takes about 2 hours to circle the island, but many choose to anchor their boats, so they can swim.
Stop in at one of the beaches on either side of the island for a little relaxation. Next, take the the lift up to Monte Solaro where you’ll have a bird’s eye view of the island and sea. The Faraglioni di Capri rock formations jutting up out of the sea are quite spectacular. Finish off your time in Capri with a romantic dinner down at the marina where you came in on the ferry. There are many wonderful options for dining, all that serve the island’s signature dishes–insalata caprese, ravioli capresi, and torta caprese.
Ischia
Recommended by Amber of Amber Everywhere
The island of Ischia is one of the most romantic hidden gems in Italy, set about an hour’s ferry ride from Naples. Ischia is the lesser-known alternative to Capri, a better-known Mediterranean island in the Tyrrhenian Sea. Both islands are accessible by ferry throughout the day, just purchase a ticket at the Naples ferry station.
Whether you visit for a day or several days, one of the top things to do in Ischia is visiting the Aragonese Castle. The Aragonese Castle is actually an island fortress, located just a few minutes walk along a land bridge that connects it to Ischia. On a warm summer day, you can swim in the crystal clear water or bask on the volcanic rocks that line the bridge.
First established in 474 BC, the Aragonese Castle of Ischia has a long and storied history. It has been inhabited for most of its history, and is currently open for visitors to explore. You’ll see a small art gallery, a crypt, a monastery, and several incredible views out over the Mediterranean and of Ischia.
For the perfect end to your visit to the Aragonese Castle, make your way to one of the terrace cafes as the sun starts to set. Sip an Aperol spritz or an espresso on the terrace overlooking the island as the sun slips out of view. Then, head towards the ferry station for dinner at one of the wonderful restaurants that overlook the ocean or the harbor.
Sardinia
Recommended by Allison of Renovating Life
If you’re looking for romantic places in Italy, you won’t have to look far. But if you venture a little further from the mainland, you’ll discover one of the most romantic places in Italy—Sardinia. The island of Sardinia is west of the Italian mainland and just south of the French island of Corsica
in the Mediterranean Sea. The island offers ample opportunities for romance. The crystal blue water is the perfect temperature for swimming or snorkeling, and there are myriad beaches to explore, including a nude beach or two if that’s your thing. Take a boat trip along the coast for some beach hopping or cave exploring, or hire a private sailboat or catamaran to explore the Maddalena Archipelago. Sip local rosé at a sidewalk restaurant. Feast on seafood galore. Or i
ndulge in one of the best culinary experiences in the world at one of the local farms. These agriturismo restaurants often serve multi-course meals sourced from the farm for a set price, wine and rappa included, and some even offer rooms to rent for a romantic country farm stay. If luxury is what you’re after, there are innumerable resorts offering beautiful views and high-end amenities like spas and wellness centers. Book a couple’s massage for the ultimate relaxation after a day of exploring.
You can reach the island by ferry from the Italian mainland, Corsica, or Barcelona, or by air to one of the island’s two airports.
No matter what you choose to do or where you stay, you’ll be hard-pressed not to be enveloped by the romantic atmosphere in Sardinia.
Sicily
Recommended by Vaness of i Heart Italy
Sicily is one of the most romantic places to be in all of Italy. Whether you’re looking for natural beauty, a cultural getaway, or a bit of adventure, there’s something for every couple in Sicily. The scenery alone is reason enough to make Sicily a romantic escape. With the imposing Mount Etna, ancient architecture, and stunning beaches, it’s truly a feast for the eyes.
Sicily is easily accessible from mainland Italy by plane or by ferry, if you prefer a slower and maybe slightly more romantic mode of transportation. Once you’re there, you will have no shortage of romantic choices.
Try visiting Mount Etna, an active volcano located on the east coast of Sicily. While it may not seem like an obvious choice for romance, exploring its unique terrain can be an adventure, especially when accompanied by your significant other! Take a guided tour through Mount Etna’s lava fields and enjoy its stunning views as you learn about its history and geology.
Pay a visit to Taormina, one of the most beautiful cities in Sicily, offering couples incredible views over the Mediterranean Sea. A stroll around Taormina will give you plenty of opportunities to admire its stunning architecture, visit art galleries, shop, eat, and experience its laid-back atmosphere. Taormina was recently made even more famous by the show White Lotus, which was set in Sicily.
Romantic Boat Ride Around Siracusa, another charming city located on the east coast of Sicily that offers plenty for couples to explore together. Ride around the coastline and soak up some sun while admiring its ancient ruins from afar. Finish your tour with a visit to Siracusa’s famous archaeological park, which includes magnificent Greek theatre dating back to Roman times.
If all else fails, you can always relax on one of Sicily’s beautiful beaches with your loved one.
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What a fabulous list! Honestly – is there anywhere in Italy that isn’t romantic? Haha. My husband and I spent part of our honeymoon in Rome and Manarola, and it was amazing. We stayed in an incredible hotel in Manarola that overlooked the Ligurian Sea. It was definitely romantic! We would really like to visit Lake Como, Florence, and Positano next, so I was happy to see those on this list. Thanks for sharing!
I would also recommend that travelers in search of romance explore Locorotondo in southern Italy. It is charming.
Cortona Italy sounds like a dream! I would love to get married in Italy!
Beautiful lakes, small colorful villages, great outdoor hikes. What’s not to love? I really want to spend more time in Italy and love that this covers a mixture of both the popular and more well known tourist spots and some other places too. Definitely getting some good ideas, and while Venice and Cinque Terre are top of the list it’s nice to see there is so much more to Italy
This is a great collab! So many fantastic places to visit. I’d love to visit the isle if Capri. Unfortunately I’ll be going solo lol.
Am I the only one who when she visits Italy wants to buy a house and move there? 🙂 The central part of the country is without a doubt wonderful. I would add to the list the villages, like San Marco de Castellabate, in the Costa del Cilento region. In fact this whole coastal region is spectacular. Thanks for sharing such beautiful places.
I great list of places in Italy. I have been to most of the major cities on the list so the smaller places intrigued me. Certainly Lake Como, Maggiore Ischia and Positano would be places I would like to explore. I’ve heard a lot about them. Your list is invaluable to those seeking Romance in Italy!
Hard to narrow down to my favourites when the whole country seems so romantic! I think I love the idea of staying at the mountain lodge at Cinque Torri or maybe boating around Lake Garda.
Well this post just confirmed that I’ll probably never see the whole of Italy in my lifetime! It literally takes a lifetime to see all that this wonderful country has to offer! This is a great list and the only other place I would add is Verona which when you see it, you immediately get why it was picked as the setting for Romeo and Juliet 🙂
The first time I actually thought a place to be “romantic” visiting without a partner was Florence. I remember I loved its vibe and the all-time-favourite of watching spectacular sunsets from the many bridges or the Plaza Michelangelo. That really felt special and truly romantic. Other than that, I can’t really put my finger to it what else I’d class as romantic, maybe architecture could be another point? Matera looks highly interesting to me and I can imagine spending hours upon hours exploring the caves and discovering the one or other secrets.
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