If you are looking for inspiration for your short breaks to Italy, here are the most romantic places in Italy! What are you waiting for to plan your next romantic trip to Italy?
Italy is certainly one of the countries that best lends itself to romantic short breaks. Thanks to its landscapes and characteristics, this country offers many possibilities for any kind of occasion.
You will have the opportunity to choose the best location for your marriage proposal or to celebrate an anniversary or a birthday!
If you need a break from the hectic pace of work, you can enjoy a romantic weekend of wellness and relaxation with your better half! Christmas, Carnival and Valentine’s Day are just some of the best opportunities to organise a romantic trip to Italy. Read on to find out more about the most romantic places in Italy!
As I’ve explained, there are plenty of romantic Italian cities, to visit both in high and low season.
Depending on your needs and your budget, you can choose from the many holiday packages on offer to enjoy an unforgettable weekend as a couple.
Not sure which are the most romantic places in Italy? Don’t worry! I’ll give you some ideas for romantic breaks in Italy’s most beautiful and charming cities, dreamy villages, seaside towns and mountains, as well as beautiful countryside and spa towns.
If you want to impress your sweetheart, continue reading and you will surely find inspiration for a unique surprise!
The most romantic places in Italy: where to spend a romantic weekend
Italy is the perfect place to spend a romantic weekend. Thanks to its great cultural diversity, you will be able to choose from a thousand destinations the one that is most interesting to you.
Sea, mountains, thermal spas and charming villages are just some of the many choices for your romance in Italy!
To help you make your decision, here is a list of the most romantic places in Italy, in the hope that some will inspire you and convince you to go on a romantic weekend. 👇
Aosta Valley
The Aosta Valley is the smallest region of the country, but it is able to offer a very rich heritage, not only from the natural point of view.
In fact, everyone knows about its imposing and marvellous mountains, including Mont Blanc and Gran Paradiso. but perhaps few know about the presence of ancient Roman monuments such as the Roman Theatre and the Arch of Augustus.
The region’s symbol, the Fort of Bard, and the Arch of Donnas, a very impressive sight carved into the rock, are also worth seeing. There are also many testimonies of the medieval period as evidenced by the many castles in the area, including Fènis Castle, Saint-Pierre Castle and Savoy Castle. Locations not to be missed for perfect Italy short breaks!
The food and wine offer includes Jambon de Bosses and Lardo di Arnad, but don’t forget to try Blue d’Aoste, a soft cheese. As for wines, try the Vallee d’Aoste Blanc de Morgex et de la Salle.
Val d’Orcia
Located in southern Tuscany, this fantastic region is characterised by rolling hills covered with vineyards and wheat fields. Its unspoilt nature makes the Val d’Orcia a very attractive destination for a romantic trip to Italy.
The medieval villages that are dotted around this area are many, but if you have two days at your disposal, I suggest you visit Buonconvento, considered one of the most beautiful villages in Italy, Montepulciano and Montalcino, famous for their wine, and finally San Quirico d’Orcia, a small village where you should definitely see the Collegiata dei Santi Quirico e Giulietta.
Thanks to the landscapes of the Val d’Orcia, you will have the possibility to go for walks or bike rides surrounded by nature and enjoy days of peace and relaxation!
You cannot leave these lands without first tasting the salami of Cinta Senese and the pecorino di Pienza, without forgetting the Brunello di Montalcino and the Nobile di Montepulciano wines.
Val di Noto
For an original romantic weekend to propose to your sweetheart, the Val di Noto is the place for you. Thanks to its nature, its flavours and its history, it will capture you in all its beauty.
Its eight Baroque towns are definitely worth a visit, but for two romantic days I recommend Modica with its world-famous chocolate, Scicli with its dreamlike crystal clear sea, and Noto where you can visit one of the most beautiful Baroque cathedrals in Europe.
If you have time, I also suggest a visit to Marzamemi, a small fishing village with very charming bars and restaurants by the sea.
Don’t know what to eat in this area? You must try the arancini, the scacce, the pasta alla norma, the typical cannoli with ricotta and the granite with brioche. The wine offer includes the legendary Nero d’Avola.
Marsala
Located at the westernmost point of Sicily, this city will win you over with its charming Baroque style.
The centre of Marsala can be easily visited on foot so you can see the monuments that populate it. Don’t miss the Chiesa dell’Addolorata and the Chiesa del Purgatorio, as well as Porta Garibaldi and Piazza della Repubblica, the city’s nerve centre.
For nature lovers, I recommend Villa Cavallotti, the Archaeological Park of Lilybaeum with the beautiful Grotta della Sibilla (Sybil’s Cave) and the Laguna dello Stagnone (Stagnone Lagoon), for many the most evocative landscape in all of Sicily. In Marsala, as well as Marsala wine, try the pane cunzato, aubergine caponata and fish couscous.
Tigullio Gulf
In Italy romantic places are so many, but if you are really looking for one of the most romantic places in Italy, the Gulf of Tigullio is for you! Situated in Liguria, with its characteristic villages and dreamlike sea, it includes several picturesque villages. The most famous are Portofino, Santa Margherita Ligure and Sestri Levante.
Portofino is certainly the best known village. I suggest you visit it on foot so that you can see the many breathtaking views. During your Italian city breaks, visit the Brown Castle and the Church of San Giorgio.
Santa Margherita Ligure, near Portofino, is a charming little village dominated by the beautiful coloured houses typical of the area. The seafront is perfect for a romantic stroll, while the bike tours of the Riviera are very interesting.
Sestri Levante is a pearl of Liguria. The historic centre stands out on a strip of land flanked by the Baia del Silenzio and the Baia delle Favole. Don’t miss the Convento dei Cappuccini and the Medieval Church of San Nicolò dell’Isola.
The food and wine offer includes pasta al pesto, pansoti and corsetti. Try Sciacchetrà wine to drink.
Itria Valley
If you don’t have any ideas for a romantic weekend, don’t worry! I’m here to propose you this fantastic destination. The Itria Valley is one of the most beautiful areas of Apulia thanks to its characteristic landscapes made of white towns, olive trees and a crystal clear sea. Among the many towns that populate this area, Alberobello, Ostuni and Locorotondo are worth mentioning.
Alberobello, known throughout the world as the “city of trulli”, is a must-see. Its characteristic architecture is the hallmark that makes this town a real gem. Lose yourself in its alleyways and enjoy the fantastic views!
Ostuni is a pearl of the Itria Valley thanks to its white houses that make it known worldwide as the “white city”. During a relaxing walk, you can see the beautiful 15th-century Ostuni Cathedral.
Locorotondo is a small Apulian village characterised by white houses with pointed roofs called “cummerse”. Don’t miss the Cathedral of San Giorgio.
In the Itria Valley, you can’t miss the lampascioni omelette, caciocavallo cheese and orecchiette pasta with turnip tops.
Florence and Tuscan Maremma
Florence is one of the most romantic places in Italy you can choose for an original romantic weekend or a romantic getaway for a couple of days. Its monuments and landscapes, which can be seen by walking through the historic centre, are a distinctive feature of the city.
Walking through the streets of Florence, you can’t miss the majestic Duomo with Brunelleschi’s freestanding dome, Giotto’s bell tower and Piazza della Signoria. The Ponte Vecchio with its splendid view over the Arno river is worth a visit. For art lovers, of course, the Uffizi Museum is also a must, with works by important artists such as Botticelli, Caravaggio and Michelangelo. An obligatory romantic stop is Piazzale Michelangelo from which to observe Florence from above!
The Tuscan Maremma is an area where fascinating hills and mountains alternate, creating some of the most beautiful landscapes to see. It is certainly one of the most romantic places in Italy, to visit on a romantic weekend!
Bistecca alla fiorentina, peposo alla fornacina and schiacciata are just some of the local specialities. Try the famous Chianti and Carmignano red wines to drink.
- Visit Florence and its surroundings with Italia Delight
- Enjoy Chianti and taste fine wines
- Explore the Tuscan Maremma between taste and relaxation
Rome
Not sure what to choose for a romantic trip to Italy? Choose Rome and you’ll never go wrong! Walking through the streets of the historic centre surrounded by imposing and wonderful monuments is something to do at least once in your life.
In two romantic days, I suggest you visit the Colosseum, the Spanish Steps, the Trevi Fountain, Piazza Venezia, St. Peter’s Basilica and Piazza Navona, but don’t miss the many green areas such as Villa Borghese. If you want to impress your sweetheart, visit the Pincio Hill, a real panoramic terrace that becomes even more impressive at night. An iconic and fascinating travel tip for one of the most romantic Italian cities!
The iconic dishes of Roman cuisine are many. Definitely try at least one pasta dish such as carbonara, amatriciana, cacio e pepe, gricia, without forgetting the main courses such as coda alla vaccinara or tripe alla romana. A typical dessert to try is maritozzo with cream! Enjoy your meals with a good Cannellino di Frascati or Cesanese d’Affile wine.
- Visit Rome amidst beauty and local flavours
- Discover Frascati: wine and tuscolan villas
- Admire the village of Piglio and taste Cesanese wine
Viterbo and Tuscia
Tuscia is a vast territory near Rome, characterised by two mountain ranges, Monti Cimini and Monti Volsini, two lakes, Lake Bolsena and Lake Vico, thermal springs such as the “Terme dei Papi”, forests and an important plain called “Maremma Laziale”. Thanks to this variety, you will be spoilt for choice for your romance in Italy!
There are also interesting villages to visit such as Viterbo and Civita di Bagnoregio, which I will now describe.
Viterbo, also known as the “city of the popes”, is a quiet town surrounded by unspoilt nature. Lose yourself in its alleyways and palaces with small balconies and remember to visit the Palace of the Popes.
Civita di Bagnoregio is one of the most beautiful villages in Italy. Located on a tuffaceous spur, the town is also known as the “dying city”, due to the slow subsidence of the wall. Enjoy all its breathtaking views!
In Tuscia, you absolutely must try the acquacotta, lombrichelli alla vitorchianese and bertolacce. When it comes to wine, try EST! EST!!! EST!!!
Venice
Venice is perhaps the most romantic city in Italy, one of the perfect places to spend a romantic weekend. Thanks to its alleys, monuments and charming venues, it is taken by assault every year by lovers from all over the world.
When visiting this beautiful city, don’t miss St Mark’s Square, Rialto Bridge and a Grand Canal tour. In Venice you can surprise your sweetheart with candlelit dinners on the Grand Canal or a gondola ride with aperitif.
Venetian food and wine includes sardines in saor, lasagne with squid ink and bussolai, typical butter biscuits. A glass of prosecco is a must in this city!
Porto Venere and the Cinque Terre
When thinking of the most romantic places in Italy, I would definitely recommend the wonder of the Gulf of Poets, which includes some of the most beautiful villages in Italy. This gulf is located in the province of La Spezia, in Liguria, and is home to small villages such as Porto Venere and the equally famous Cinque Terre.
Porto Venere is a characteristic fishing village, with colourful houses and a crystal clear sea where you can go hiking and diving. The island of Palmaria and the Byron’s cave are worth a visit.
The Cinque Terre (Vernazza, Monterosso, Manarola, Corniglia and Riomaggiore) are typical Ligurian villages that will make you fall in love with their landscapes.
In Liguria, you must try the trofie with pesto genovese and the muscles of Porto Venere, to pair with the excellent Sciacchetrà wine.
Langhe, Roero and Monferrato
In Piedmont, the Langhe, Roero and Monferrato area has been included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Thanks to its landscapes defined by vineyard-covered hills and small ancient villages, it is a real gem of this region.
Here you will have the opportunity to take fantastic walks or bike rides through the vineyards and enjoy two romantic days in absolute tranquillity. In this land of wines, try Barolo, Barbaresco or even a good Barbera, perhaps with some organised wine tastings paired with local specialities such as bagna caoda or vitello tonnato. For a truly unique romantic trip to Northern Italy!
Verona and Lake Garda
Not sure where to spend a romantic weekend? What better place than the city of love? Verona is in fact the ideal city for a romantic trip to Italy among history, art and culture. The main tourist attraction is the beautiful Verona Arena, but don’t forget to visit Piazza delle Erbe and Juliet’s house.
Not far from Verona is Lake Garda, which is suitable for nature lovers, sports enthusiasts as well as those interested in history and culture. Boat trips, excursions, trekking routes and visits to important monuments are just some of the best things you can do on this fascinating lake.
Veronese cuisine offers risotto with tastasal and potato gnocchi. Among the wide range of wines, you can try Amarone or Valpolicella.
Salento
Salento is a sub-region of southern Apulia characterised by a fabulous sea, sea caves, ancient monasteries, villages, unmissable food and wine. The most characteristic cities to visit are Lecce, Otranto and Santa Maria di Leuca, each with its own Baroque monuments.
Among the sea caves, we must absolutely mention one of the ten most beautiful natural pools in the world, the Grotta della Poesia in Melendugno, which has become an international attraction.
You can’t leave Salento without trying the pucce, the scapace gallipolina and the pasticciotti, while as far as wine is concerned, I recommend a good glass of Negramaro wine.
Naples and the Amalfi Coast
Naples is certainly a very appropriate destination for a romantic trip to Italy. Strolling through the historic centre and observing the most charming alleys is an experience to be made at least once in a lifetime. Via Spaccanapoli and the Spanish quarters must be seen without forgetting the romantic waterfront of Castel dell’Ovo and the nativity scenes of San Gregorio Armeno.
The Amalfi Coast, south of Naples, offers you two romantic days to relax surrounded by nature with breathtaking landscapes overlooking the sea. For adventure lovers, there is no shortage of trekking trails such as the Sentiero degli Dei or boat excursions. Visit the towns of Amalfi and Vietri sul Mare.
In Campania, you can’t miss a good margherita pizza, scialatielli with mussels and clams, pastarelle amalfitane. Pair everything with a good Falanghina!
Valtellina and Lake Como
If you don’t have any ideas about the most romantic places in Italy, let me recommend the woods, mountains and villages of Valtellina. You will observe breathtaking landscapes in an atmosphere of absolute tranquillity. In these mountains, trekking trails in contact with the unspoilt nature are a must. Visit the villages of Bormio and Sondrio.
Not far from Valtellina is Lake Como. In this lake you can find peace of mind, thanks to its breathtaking location at the foot of the Pre-Alps. Boat trips and water sports will enrich your days!
The Lombard cuisine of this area includes pizzoccheri and risotto with perch fillets. The most renowned wine is the Sforzato della Valtellina.
Trentino Alto Adige
Where to go for a romantic weekend? If you love nature, Trentino is the perfect place for you! With its imposing mountains and spectacular lakes, you won’t be disappointed.
Of course, there are many trekking trails, but I would recommend the impressive Sentiero nella Roccia in Val di Non and the beautiful trails of the Catinaccio Group in Val di Fassa. The villages you absolutely must visit are Castelrotto and Riva del Garda.
You cannot leave Trentino without having tried the potato tortel, speck and local cheeses. For wine I recommend an excellent Gewürtzaminer.
Lake Orta
Lake Orta in Piedmont is the perfect place to spend a romantic weekend in Italy. With its unforgettable views and romantic villages, it is a fantastic surprise for your sweetheart. On the shores of the lake, don’t miss Omegna, Pella and Orta San Giulio, characteristic and very picturesque villages.
The typical foods are tapulone with polenta and casseula to pair with the excellent Ghemme wine.
Montefalco and the Umbrian hills
The Umbrian hills are characterised by wonderful expanses of olive groves and vineyards. In this scenery lies one of the most beautiful villages in Italy, Montefalco. Also known as the “railing of Umbria” due to its strategic location, it offers breathtaking views over Assisi, Perugia, Spello and other Umbrian towns. The historic centre is worth a visit, which can be easily explored on foot.
The local cuisine offers excellent pappardelle alla montefalchese, to be paired with Sagrantino di Montefalco wine.
Valdobbiadene and Colli Asolani
In Veneto, these territories are a joy to behold. Being the land of Prosecco, the hills are filled with vineyards creating unique landscapes. You will have the opportunity to enjoy two romantic days in peace with your loved one, tasting Prosecco Valdobbiadene or Asolo Prosecco!
Ravenna and Saline di Cervia
When I think of the most romantic places in Italy, Ravenna immediately comes to mind. This Emilia Romagna wonder, with mosaics adorning many of its monuments, is the ideal destination for a romantic surprise. The Basilica of Sant’Apollinare in Classe and the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia are a must-see.
A very suggestive landscape is that of the Cervia saltpans which, at certain times of the year, are populated by flamingos and herons.
In this area, the best food is cappelletti with meat sauce or in broth and spoja lorda. As wine, try the Ravenna IGT.
Matera
A romantic weekend in Matera is something to do at least once in a lifetime. The “city of stones” is a pearl of Basilicata. These cave dwellings carved into the mountain make the atmosphere almost surreal and attract thousands of lovers every year.
In Matera, try the orecchiette with mushrooms and sausage or Matera wine.
Give a trip without dates or book a fantastic food and wine trip with Italia Delight’s Local Experts to surprise your sweetheart in the most romantic places in Italy. What are you waiting for? Explore romantic Italy 😉
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