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The 20 Most Romantic Places in Italy For Couples

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Gondolier on a gondola in a romantic canal in Venice (Italy)
Is there anything more charming than a gondola ride in Venice?

Planning a romantic escape is probably one of the best ways to celebrate Valentine’s day or a special anniversary. Yet it can be particularly difficult to choose when there are so many beautiful places to visit in Italy. Let me introduce you to the most romantic places in Italy that you should visit with your better half, with quite a few tips, tricks and traditions from the locals.

Verona at sunset with stone bridges over the Adige river in a quite romantic shot
Verona is one of the most romantic cities in Italy!

Click to watch our video guide to the most romantic places to visit in Italy!

Verona: Just like Romeo and Juliet

Verona is one of Italy’s most romantic places for a good reason.
The city of William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet is visited every year by thousands of lovers who want to see the medieval building known as “Casa di Giulietta” (Juliet’s house), located in via Cappello 23.

You will be able to see Juliet’s balcony and her bronze statue. The visitors put their hand on its heart and wish for eternal love.

In case you feel like eloping in Italy, know that it is possible to get married at Casa di Giulietta!
Cool, right?

Are you visiting Italy in the warmer months? Check out what to wear in summer in Italy to make sure you avoid these common tourist mistakes!

Not too far away, in Via delle Arche Scaligere, there’s Casa di Romeo (Romeo’s house).
Because this is private property, you can’t visit the inside. Yet you can walk from Juliet to Romeo’s house, hand in hand with your special person.

Near Casa di Romeo there’s Osteria del Duca, a very nice restaurant with local (delicious) food.

Please make sure you read our guide to Italy tipping before you go so you’ll know what to do when you get the bill.

Another thing you can – and should – add to your romantic Italian getaway is the place that the locals identify as Juliet’s tomb. It’s located in an ex monastery right outside the Verona walls, in via Pontiere 35.

If you’re visiting Verona, make sure to also check out the events at the breathtaking Arena di Verona. Snatcing tickets for a concert, opera night or ballet at the Arena would definitely be the cherry on the top to this trip!

Worried you’ll need a bit of help?
Download the FREE Italian Travel Phrasebook here! It includes the correct Italian pronunciation and lots of useful sentences that you’ll be able to use on your trip to Italy!

Gondolas in the canal next to a lamplight with a romantic sunset over Venice in the background
Riding a gondola in Venice should be at the top of an incredibly romantic bucket list for Italy

Important update!
Read the news about the new visa requirements for Europe and ETIAS Authorization you need from 2024!

Venice: gondolas and gorgeous sunsets

Venice is one of the most idyllic Italian cities and one of the places that people always add to their itinerary for Italy.

La Serenissima is very popular, and while it might sound like a cliché, I swear everything you’ve heard about this place is true.

When people think of a romantic setting for a trip, the first thing that comes to mind is Venice. And maybe a traditional gondola.

If you’re looking to surprise your special someone, you should definitely add a gondola ride to your itinerary (which you can book here in advance at a special price).

Walking hand in hand while exploring the narrow streets of Venice is definitely another much cheaper way of exploring this world famous city.

Venice can be explored also renting a bicycle, if the weather is good and you’re up to the challenge!

You might also like:
Honeymooning in Italy – Ultimate guide to an unforgettable trip

Romantic spot in Venice with couple kissing near the canals
Gondola rides aren’t the only romantic thing you can do in the floating city!

A labyrinth of medieval alleyways and canals is the perfect place to get lost, snatching the odd moment of solitude.
If you walk out of St Mark’s Square (to the west), you will reach the Cannaregio area.

Usually Cannaregio isn’t crowded with tourists, so you can consider it a bit like exploring Venice “off the beaten path”.

As you stroll through the narrow streets, you should explore the Ghetto, one of the most evocative parts of Venice.

There are many cafes and restaurants, so another option is to sit at a cafe watching kids play football. That’s a very Italian thing to do!

Another cute and interesting area is Dorsoduro, in the southern part of Venice.
It feels more like a fairytale village, far away from the huge crowds and the fuss of the touristic side of the city.

Dorsoduro is full of cute bars where you can drink Italian drinks and cocktails without spending too much.
It’s also close to Campo Santa Margherita, generally busy with students and lovers.

Make sure you bring your camera, because you’ll want to take lots of pictures to remember this amazing part of your romantic trip to Italy!

View of the Amalfi Coast on a beautiful sunny day, with turquoise water an luscious green hills
The Amalfi Coast is one of the most romantic coastline in Italy: it’s a must-see!

Amalfi Coast: Sea, festivals and beaches

A road trip on the Amalfi Coast can be the perfect honeymoon destination that you can add to the itinerary to surprise your partner.

If you want to have a look at how things are, watch our Amalfi Coast video and see how beautiful it can be!

According to the season, there are many festivals or events that you can attend.
Like the Ravello Festival (one of the oldest and most renowned music festivals in Italy) or several food festivals where you can taste traditional Neapolitan food at tiny prices.

If you’re interested in tanning and getting lazy, then by all means, explore all the best beaches on the Amalfi Coast. Many of them are only known to the locals!

Remember: Southern Italy is warmer, so you will be able to get a tan also in early Spring or late Autumn. This is why it should be on the list of the best destinations in Italy you can visit throughout the year!

Whether you decide to book a hotel in Positano, Amalfi or any other town on the coast, don’t forget to visit Sal De Riso, the popular bakery in Minori.

You can spend an afternoon there or even the whole evening, tasting cakes and pastries from the Naples or Salerno tradition, or drinking hot cocoa while eating colorful macarons.

The Sal De Riso shop looks almost like an art exhibition more than just a bakery.
Mr. De Riso loves beautiful things and makes sure the aesthetics in his shop are always perfect.
Don’t be afraid to take as many pictures as you want!

Girl looking at Furore fjord on the Amalfi Coast in Italy
Roadtripping on the Amalfi Coast is unforgettable!

If you want to spoil your partner you can book a scenic cruise that includes homemade limoncello tasting (the real stuff)!

Walking at night along the coast or on the beach, hand in hand with your significant other, with the soothing sounds of the sea in the background and the Moon as a witness to your love is one of the most romantic experiences ever.

The perfect way to celebrate a special occasion or to enjoy your honeymoon in Italy!

Are you celebrating a birthday, your anniversary or another special event?
Think of booking a hotel in Ravello. It’s by far the least crowded town on the Amalfi Coast!

If by any chance you’re not sure you can plan your own trip, or if you’re visiting from Rome and you don’t want to deal with train tickets and buses, check out my hand-picked list of the best Amalfi Coast tours!

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Sunset in Florence (Italy) with a couple hugging on one of the roofs
Florence should always be on the itinerary for a romantic Italy trip

Florence: art, culture and good wine

Famous for art and good food, Florence is also one of the world’s favorite spots in Italy, which is easy to get to if you’re using fast trains (try Italo or Trenitalia) to explore our Country.

You can visit Florence to spend a romantic weekend with your partner, eating, drinking a glass of Chianti and just enjoying your trip. Or… if you have decided you want to honeymoon here in the Bel Paese.

There are two ways you can plan your trip to Florence.
If you have visited already, then you should aim for a foodie trip, spend some time eating delicious food (here you can find some delicious Italian dishes you should try in Tuscany).

If you’re celebrating something, think about treating yourselves to a glass or two of Chianti wine by booking a romantic tour.

An alternative would be to plan a few day trips from Florence, to explore Tuscany and its beautiful villages.
It’s easy to get around by using trains and buses, but remember that you should pack accordingly. Comfortable walking shoes are mandatory!

What if you’ve never been to Florence before?
Because there’s so much to see, unless you have a minimum of 4 days just for this part of your trip, I’d skip the day trips.
Spend your time visiting museums, exploring the ancient shops (the Italian “botteghe“), and walking hand in hand at Ponte Vecchio.

Because Florence is one of the most romantic cities in Italy, it deserves some love (pun intended)!
Don’t add too much to your itinerary, otherwise you’ll be forced to run from Point A to Point B in stead than just enjoying yourself with your partner.

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Green window with a pot of bright pink flowers in an ancient building in Florence
Book a hotel in the city center to get the best of Florence!

A word of advice about your expectations on Florence: remember that it can be super crowded.

It’s not a matter of when you should visit, because this is one of the most popular cities in Italy, so even in the coldest winter day you’d probably find lots of people trying to take pictures of the instagrammable spots.

What does it mean for you?
First things first, be realistic, so you won’t feel disappointed in case it’s too crowded.
Planning well in advance this part of your romantic trip to Italy is also mandatory.

Tourists from all over the world stand for hours in line to get into the Uffizi Gallery, wasting precious time they could spend otherwise.
In case you’re planning to visit the world-famous museum, make sure you buy your tickets online in advance.

Me and Aldo have friends who live in the area, so we can offer a few tips out of experience, because we tend to visit quite often.

To avoid most of the crowds, wake up extra early and head over to the first cafè (“Bar” in Italy) to grab “caffè e cornetto“.
Our to-go breakfast, which is a cup of strong espresso (in Naples coffee is always pretty strong so we’re used to it) and a warm, buttery croissant.

Enjoy your breakfast as you walk along the Arno river with your partner.
Early in the morning it’s quiet and very peaceful.

Once you’re finished taking pictures, head over to the Uffizi Gallery. Visiting will take the most part of the day (we had to wait in line for 1 hour even if we had skip-the-line tickets).

In the afternoon or evening get out for some souvenir shopping, and then find a traditional restaurant. Fiorentina steak and a glass of Chianti are perfect for a candlelit dinner!

Romantic view of the colorful houses in Manarola, Cinque Terre (Italy)
Cinque Terre is one of the favorite honeymoon spots in Italy

Cinque Terre: Linguine al pesto with a view

Some images of the Cinque Terre look awfully similar to the Amalfi Coast and specifically to Positano, so much so that some tourists tend to get quite confused.

While Amalfi Coast is located in Campania region, Cinque Terre are little towns in Liguria region, a train trip away from Florence.

Both are gorgeous clusters of tiny villages with breathtaking views all around. Yet it makes sense to visit Cinque Terre if you can only spare a couple of days and you’re visiting from Tuscany.

Cinque Terre, one of the most romantic places in Italy, can be visited using public transport.
Renting a car for this part of your trip is pretty useless, because finding a parking spot takes so long! Besides, you won’t be able to drive in most of the villages anyway!

You might have read that the road comes with a view. So why shouldn’t you give it a try?
The fact is that the road is narrow and windy. It tends to get dangerous, especially at night.

Another thing you must pay attention to are the mighty scary “ZTL Zona a Traffico Limitato“, where you can’t drive. Sometimes it’s difficult to spot them and you’d end up ruining your trip because you’ll get fined.
Fines for driving into a ZTL are pretty expensive: don’t risk it!

Old buildings covered in brown and green ivy and pink flowers at sunset in Italy
Italy is a destination you can visit in every season

Cinque Terre is the perfect place for a slow kind of trip. Discover the authentic Italian lifestyle and eat all the delicious food! Dieting is definitely not an option!

Another thing you can do at Cinque Terre is a short cruise to explore all the cute little towns. The main boarding ports are Levanto, Portovenere, Lerici and La Spezia.

You can choose between a longer cruise (consider spending one full day exploring on a guided tour), or a shorter one that takes just a few huours.
The shorter route is perfect if you want to see Vernazza and/or Monterosso.
It’s all up to you and how many days you have for this part of your trip.

The wine lovers should also book a wine tour with tastings, to enjoy all the different kinds of local wine, paired with the best snacks and bites from the Italian tradition.

Click here to have a look at one of the best wine tours in Cinque Terre – with a free cancellation policy!

Update 2023

Booking a hotel room in Portofino is a good option if you also want to visit the Ligurian coast.
Portofino is only 43 miles (70 km) from Cinque Terre.

And you’d get to add another place Italy is known for to your itinerary. Yet there’s no train station in Portofino.

I suggest you consider Santa Margherita Ligure as a home base for this trip.

From Santa Margherita Ligure you can hop on a train to La Spezia, Manarola, Riomaggiore, Vernazza, Monterosso or Corniglia.
You’ll get to your destination in less than one hour and half!

And what about Portofino?
The good news is that you can get there from Santa Maria Ligure on a boat!

Ancient building and well in Bologna (Italy) at night
Bologna is the perfect Italian getaway for all the foodies out there

Bologna: mortadella, tortelli and arcades

Bologna is the perfect getaway for the foodie couples who want to spend their time walking hand in hand and tasting authentic Italian dishes.

One of the highlights of the city is the “Torre degli Asinelli” (Asinelli Tower) also known, with its twin, as the Two Towers (Lord of the rings anyone?).
You can visit the tallest of the two, which dates back to 1119, only if you are willing to climb 498 steps to reach the top.

From the terrace you will be able to take breathtaking pictures of Bologna and if the sky is clear enough you might even see as far as the sea.

An encouragement? It can be a great way to loose the extra pounds from all the good food you’ll eat in Bologna! No reason to feel guilty then!

While this is a city built on water, just like Venice, you can’t see many canals in Bologna. The most beautiful and romantic one can be seen from Via Piella.

The Canale delle Moline has been used for centuries, because of the water mills in the area.

Fresh asparagus wrapped in Italian prosciutto with balsamic vinegar from Modena
Bologna is the perfect foodie destination!

In the evening Bologna turns into a fairytale: walk hand in hand under Bologna’s arcades.
They cover every point of the city and they’re about 40 km long!

Everyone knows about the delicious food you can eat in Bologna, from handmade pasta to tortelli, to the pork meat used in so many dishes.

Mortadella is the most famous cured meat in Italy after prosciutto. It’s a large sausage also used as a filling for tortelli or as a delicious foam that is generally served with little toasts or canapés.

Looking for a different experience? How about you book a semi-private cooking class with a local cook? You’ll learn how to prepare an Italian meal that you can recreate at home to celebrate your anniversary!
Click here to check out rates and availability.

If you are going to spend a few days in the area, I strongly recommend planning a day trip from Bologna. There are quite a few interesting little towns that you can visit, mostly unknown to the crowds of tourists!

The majestic Faraglioni in Capri, one of the most romantic places in Italy, with boats approaching them
Capri is also one of the most popular spots for honeymooners!

Capri: proposing under the Faraglioni

This jewel in the Gulf of Naples isn’t just the perfect destination for a dreamy weekend, but it’s also the place, among the top romantic spots in Italy, which scores the highest number of proposals every year!

Honeymooning to Capri is also very popular worldwide. Couples visit the island and pledge undying love.
There are a few places just about perfect for that.

Two of the best romantic spots in Capri are Punta Tragara Belvedere and Punta Cannone Belvedere, from which you can see the majestic faraglioni.

At sunset or in the early evening, the hordes of tourists will get back to Naples or the Amalfi Coast, so you’ll have the place all to yourself.

Romantic terrace with a view in Capri island (Italy)
Make your way through Capri by foot: you won’t regret it!

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If you want to pop the question under the faraglioni you can rent a boat and tell the Captain that you want to propose.
He will slow down near the big arch to give you time to enjoy the view… and find the ring.

Because it’s such a romantic spot, fishermen and sailors are used to this kind of requests so please, don’t worry about a thing!
There’s no need to feel embarassed.

In the South we’re all super happy to see a couple in love: they’ll make sure to surprise your partner with a mini-cruise they’ll never forget!

Some other beautiful spots in Capri to propose are the Eremo di Centrella, where you can also plan a romantic picnic, the Punta Carena lighthouse and the Belvedere delle Migliera.

Belvedere delle Migliera is particularly interesting because there’s a small amphitheatre where you can also have a symbolic wedding ceremony like the one the poet Pablo Neruda planned for his beloved Matilde.

View of a narrow street between trulli in Puglia, Italy
Puglia is one of the off the beaten path regions in Italy that is absolutely gorgeous

Alberobello: the authentic trulli

Alberobello is a tiny town in Puglia region, in the South of Italy, famous for the trulli and UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996.

We have explored the Salento area in Puglia on our own and gosh… it was so beautiful!

Click here to watch our road trip in Puglia region, and here to see the most beautiful beaches in Salento!

What are trulli?

Trulli are traditional Apulian stone huts with a conical roof.

You might have seen pictures of these tiny buildings with a distinctive shape: they’re worldwide famous and for a good reason!

Pink flowers lining a narrow street in Alberobello in Apulia (Italy)
Alberobello is the perfect spot in Italy off the beaten path!

Trulli are the perfect nest for a romantic Italy getaway.
If you are planning to escape the big cities and spend some time cuddling and eating delicious food, tell the owner that you are celebrating a special occasion.

Most of them will make sure to scatter rose petals in the room. Some will leave you tons of candles and a bottle of red wine “Primitivo” from Apulia.

If you feel like cuddling all day long, make sure to arrange for your breakfast to be delivered to your trullo, so you can eat it in bed.
Very decadent!

Aerial view of Lake Como, Italy, with red roofs and luscious green hills
Lake Como in Italy means… George Clooney!

Lake Como: more than just George Clooney

Many Italians associate Lake Como with George Clooney. Tales of his beautiful villa, of exclusive parties with his V.I.P. friends and of how he tends to walk around like a local are well known in Italy.
Maybe it’ll sound bizarre, but there really are people who visit Lake Como only because of him!

Yet this beautiful area has so much to offer, from the historical city center to the funicular railway that brings locals and visitors to Brunate.

The funicular is way cheaper than a boat ride and also it offers the chance to enjoy the view from above.
The ride has a 55% slope and will leave you to the “Alps balcony”: Brunate is famous because of the breathtaking views on Lake Como!

Another very important city in the area is Lecco, famous because of the novel “Promessi Sposi” (The Bethroted) written in 1827 by Alessandro Manzoni.

While you’re visiting Lake Como, make sure to find lodging in Bellagio. It’s one of the most romantic spots on the lake.

This little town is also known as the “pearl of the lake”, because it’s like a classy jewel, full of historical buildings and colorful houses.

If the weather is good, visit also Villa Serbelloni, a magnificent complex in a park full of exotic plants, rose gardens and beautiful views.

Note: Lake Garda is not close enough to Lake Como that you can make it a day trip!

View of Civita di Bagnoregio at sunset
Civita di Bagnoregio is also known as the “dying city”

Civita di Bagnoregio: The dying city

Civita di Bagnoregio is one of Italy’s best kept secrets. It’s perfect if you’re looking for an unusual destination off the beaten path.
Because I loved our time spent here, I couldn’t help myself and I had to add it to my list of the most romantic Italian towns!

Civita di Bagnoregio is also known as the “dying city”.
The name comes from the fact that Civita is destined to crumble down in future.

This tiny Italian town is located on a hill, eroded at the base by two streams, as well as by the effect of rain and wind.

Only a handful of families still live here and the silence as you walk the narrow streets only adds to the unique feel of this place.

The main highlight, aside from the views and the fact that it feels like stepping into a twilight zone, is the Cathedral, probably built in the early 7th century.
Inside you will be able to see a 15th century wooden crucifix.

Cat on the steps of a stone house in the medieval town of Civita di Bagnoregio
Cats will be your guides as you visit Civita di Bagnoregio

To be honest, in stead than calling Civita di Bagnoregio the “dying city”, I prefer to refer to it as “cats’ town”.
Even before you step on the long bridge that will let you enter the city walls, you’ll see warnings everywhere: you are not to touch the cats as they are protected by a local no profit organization.

Volunteers take care of the pretty big cat colony and they make sure the visitors don’t mess up with their work.

The result is that as you can stroll through the narrow streets, as dozens of cats just hang around, mostly sleeping. They are more photographed than movie stars on red carpets!

Civita di Bagnoregio is the perfect place to propose in a very unique setting, especially if you go early in the morning or at sunset, when the whole town is bathed in the last sun rays of the day, making everything pink and orange.

Historical building in Milan at night lit up with romantic street lamps
Who said that Milan can’t be a romantic destination?

Milan: the Italian metropolis

A romantic weekend in Milan? Before you think I’m crazy, let me tell you that this big Italian metropolis still has much to offer to the undying romantics.

This is one of the easy-to-plan trips to Italy: Milan is well linked to two airports, and it’s reachable thanks to a series of fast trains and bus services like Flixbus.

You won’t need a car thanks to the extensive metro network.
Using the Milan subway is easy, cheap and it will bring you wherever you want to go.

If you’re looking for something different than Duomo or shopping, there are a few big parks that you can visit.
Think of Central Park in New York: Milan has a lot of green areas but some can be particularly crowded.

If you’re visiting Italy in Spring, make sure to add the Brera Botanical Garden to your itinerary. It’s the perfect place for a walk hand in hand, through colorful bushes and cute little ducks.

The Indro Montanelli Gardens are also pretty big and mostly visited by locals only. Inside you will also find the Natural History Museum, which often has interesting exhibits.

View of the gothic stone spiers on the Duomo Terrace in Milan (Italy)
The Duomo Terrace in Milan is a must-see!

Milan still holds onto its past, but not only for the Christmas markets which still trace the steps of the ancient traditions.

Repurposed areas like the Vicolo dei Lavandai are mostly unknown to the tourists.
You could say they’re one of those secrets for the locals!

We got to visit it because my sister, who has now been living in Milan for almost 10 years, has discovered while randomly walking around on a sunny day.

In 1800 people came to this narrow street because it housed the Confraternity of Laundrymen of Milan.
Today Vicolo dei Lavandai is one of the most romantic spots in Milan, off the beaten path.

Click here to see what to expect from Milan in Winter!

Gulf of Naples seen from above, with colorful houses and historical building along the coast
Naples is colorful, makes delicious food and can be visited on a budget!

Naples: candlelight dinner by the sea

You probably know it already, since I’m always mentioning this, but Naples is my hometown and I am deeply in love with it.
We are proud Neapolitans so we’re always happy to help people visit our beautiful Napoli!

While in the past I gave you a one day itinerary for Naples and information about the traditional Neapolitan dishes, now I want to highlight the romantic side of my city.

There are so many stereotypes ruining Naple’s reputation that, as Neapolitans, we feel deeply hurt and offended when people who have never visited judge our city without knowing the facts.

We are absolutely aware that there’s still much to be done, but as any other big city in any part of the world, Naples has a few issues.

We do not live in filth, covered by garbage, and we do not survive by stealing from tourists.

If you are still worried, I strongly encourage you to read my article which covers each and every aspect you might be wondering about.
Click to discover if it really is safe to visit Naples.

Fishermens boats at Borgo Santa Lucia with a romantic view of Castel dell'Ovo in Naples (Italy)
Borgo Santa Lucia is one of the best places in Naples at night

Lungomare Caracciolo and Borgo Santa Lucia at night are probably the most romantic places for couples (and where me and Aldo had our first date!).
Walking hand in hand by the sea, while the moon shines down on the quiet waters of the Gulf of Naples is priceless.
Here you can either eat a “cuoppo” with fried fish or sit down for a lovely candlelit dinner.

Click here to watch our video itinerary on what to see in Naples (Italy)!

If you’re planning to propose, keep walking until you reach the area where the luxury hotels are located. We know this area as the “zona dei Grandi Alberghi“.

Right in front of the hotels you will see Castel dell’Ovo, our beloved “Egg Castle”.

At night the small stone bridge that connects the tiny island to Naples is illuminated with cute street lamps.

This is the one place in Naples where thousands of people every year propose to their significant other.
You could say that Castel dell’Ovo is one of the most romantic places in Italy that seems to encourage people to pop the question!

If you want to celebrate or if you just want to have a special evening during your honeymoon in Naples, cross the stone bridge to Borgo Marinari.
Here, next to Castel dell’Ovo, you will find a few tiny candleligt restaurants that will be perfect for that.

Be prepared to eat lots of delicious fresh fish (away from the crowds) and book well in advance!

Is your partner in love with adventure and sports? Naples has the perfect place for a date!
Hiking Mount Vesuvius is the best way to spend the day sweating and burning the extra calories off.
You can hike your way up to the crater: the view from up there is amazing!

Bonus tip: in stead than renting a car use the Naples Metro to explore the city and enjoy the new Art Stations (contemporary art museums for free)! There’s so many things to see and do in Naples that you can easily plan a 4-5 days trip without ever getting bored.

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Narrow street in Siena (Italy) lined with brick houses, leading to an ancient church
Siena is way less crowded and more romantic than Florence

Siena: Tuscany with a twist

If you want to plan a romantic trip to Tuscany and you don’t want to feel suffocated by the crowds in Florence, Siena could be the perfect compromise.
This beautiful little Tuscan town has so much to offer for every kind of tourist.

If you aren’t scared by the heights, climb up the Torre del Mangia, the most famous bell tower in Tuscany.
Bring your camera: Siena and the surrounding valleys are gorgeous from up there and the view deserves a lot of pictures!

Piazza del Campo is full of restaurants and tea rooms. If you feel at home within the crowds of tourists and students, this is where you want to go to at night.

The couples who prefer a more quiet environment can in stead have a full Italian breakfast at Piazza del Campo. When it’s way less crowded.
Another good time to visit is at sunset: think about ordering an Italian aperitivo.

Negroni is one of the most popular aperitivo drinks in Tuscany, and it usually comes with small cubes of cured meats, bite sized pizza and crackers.

Piazza San Francesco is usually pretty crowded during the day (especially because of the University students) and way more quiet in the evening. It’s the perfect place to have a gelato.
After all you can’t visit Italy without eating gelato, right?

One of the best gelato you can get in Siena is sold at Gelateria Kopakabana: it’s so close to Piazza San Francesco that you can just walk there.

For the undying romantics, the Orti dei Tolomei, in the Sant’Agata area, is perfect to lay down on the grass  at night: it’s a popular star watching spot.
In case you want to pop the question, this is the best place where you can do it in Tuscany!

Ischia island seen from above in Italy
Ischia is where you want to go to enjoy the best spa treatments

Ischia: wellness and good food

Not too far away from Capri, Ischia is another pearl in the Gulf of Naples and the biggest island in Campania region.
Every year over 6 million tourists visit Ischia, worldwide famous for its hot springs.

This volcanic island in fact has a whopping 103 natural spas all located on a 42 km2 area.
It’s best visited in spring or autumn, because the warm months are always overcrowded and noisy.

Couple kissing on the beach in Ischia, Italy
Ischia is best visited in spring or autumn

The spas in Ischia look like paradise, because the thermal pools are usually surrounded by exotic gardens and pretty close to the beach.

The natural pools are always warm or very warm (over 40° C) and rich in minerals, so we can definitely say that Ischia is one of the romantic places in Italy you can visit if you’re interested in wellness, relax, great beaches and good food.

The traditional dishes in Ischia are the “Coniglio all’Ischitana” (Ischia rabbit stew, slow cooked with small tomatoes, garlic, oregano and olive oil), and a delicious octopus cooked with candied tomatoes, potatoes, olives and capers.

To get to Ischia you can hop on a ferry from Pozzuoli or Molo Beverello in Naples. Tickets might be expensive so booking well in advance is always a good idea.

Romantic stone alleyway with many pots of flowers in Tuscany, Italy
Palazzuolo sul Senio is a tiny town off the beaten path in Tuscany

Palazzuolo: Tuscany off the beaten path

We discovered Palazzuolo sul Senio thanks to the Memorial Enzo Mengozzi. I’m talking of the trip when we crossed the Apennine Mountains on horseback to go from Firenzuola to Palazzuolo.

This beautiful, tiny town is located on the border berween Tuscany and Emilia Romagna.
Me and Aldo fell in love with the place as soon as we got there (and no, it wasn’t because we’d just been on the saddle for over 7 hours!).

A small river runs across the town. The locals come here to fish and lay down on the grass when the weather is sunny.

Palazzuolo is full of flowers and romantic weeping willows.
A wonderful historical clock tower welcomes the visitors, giving this town a strong fairytale vibe.

Stone arch with a romantic view on a green valley in Tuscany, Italy
Tuscany off the beaten path is perfect for couples looking for romance

Palazzuolo Sul Senio can be a great idea if you want to visit a very romantic place off the beaten path in Tuscany.

This tiny village with stone houses is in fact still untouched by mass tourism and completely dedicated to slow food, genuine farm-to-table products and wellness.

If you know how to ride, this is the perfect place for you, because horses are a big part of the local traditions at Palazzuolo sul Senio.

Exploring the Tuscan countryside on horseback will allow you to discover breathtaking views, as well as the chance to get to know places only the locals know about.

The hikers will be able to enjoy awesome hiking trails through the chestnut woods.
Birdwatching here is very popular: the locals will be happy to teach you everything they know about the birds living in this area.

Tall waterfall with a stone arch at Tivoli Gardens in Italy
Villa d’Este is gorgeous and super instagrammable!

Tivoli: history and gardens

Just like Palazzuolo sul Senio can be a good alternative to the most famous (and crowded) cities in Tuscany, Tivoli is the perfect romantic getaway that you can add to a romantic Italian trip.

It is in fact pretty close to Rome, which has two of the international airports you might arrive to.

A romantic weekend in this cute little town means that you will be immersed in history, nature and good food.
Worldwide famous, Villa d’Este should always be on your itinerary, especially if you’re visiting Tivoli in the summer time.

Its beautiful gardens in fact will offer shelter from the heath of the warmest months.
My suggestion? Visit Villa d’Este in the morning and the nearby Villa Adriana in the afternoon.

Both, just like Villa Gregoriana, have been added to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list.

Located just about one hour away from Rome, Tivoli can be reached by car, bus or train. This cute little town is one of the best Italian getaways for the couples who are looking for a quiet place and for families traveling with children.

A romantic weekend in Tivoli becomes, in fact, the perfect way to learn Italian history through beautiful views. Yet it also offers the chance to taste ancient recipes, with farm-to-table ingredients.
It seems like time has stopped in Tivoli!

View of the Tuscany countryside in autumn
Pienza is where you must eat lots of great cheese

Pienza: Reinassence and…cheese

Tuscany is possibly one of the most romantic regions in Italy, which is why I couldn’t help myself. I absolutely had to add Pienza, located in Val d’Orcia (South of Siena) to this list.

Nestled between luscious green hills and the world famous Tuscan valleys, Pienza was built as the ideal Renaissance city.
Lovely buildings covered in travertine marble that gives them a light green color, narrow streets and even views that you might recognize from the movie “Romeo and Juliet” one of the masterpieces of the Italian director Franco Zeffirelli.

Pienza is one of our favorite villages in Tuscany. Me and Aldo always make sure we stop by whenever we get to visit our friends.

Full disclosure: we never leave this town without buying some Pecorino di Pienza. This cheese is absolutely delicious and with a unique taste.

Make sure you order a “Tagliere di Formaggi” (mix of cheeses usually served with jam and Tuscany bread) because you can’t leave without tasting all the different pecorino types!

Walking hand in hand in Pienza will make you feel like you’re stepping into a painting.
This is one of the little towns where you can experience the most authentic part of Italy.
A must see for every romantic trip to the Bel Paese!

Couple sitting on the steps of a Tuscany villa in Italy
Pienza is a must see for every honeymoon to Italy

Shopping for Italian products in Pienza is always a good idea. Aside from Pecorino, you can buy wine, spices, pici (a particular kind of pasta), honey and other local, handmade products.

Cheese is so important in Pienza that every September they have a “Fiera del Cacio”, a town fair where  you can eat free samples of the local pecorino and discover century old traditions.

They even have a “Palio del Cacio Fuso”, an exhilarating game where the participants, one for each district of Pienza, have to push a big wheel of cheese around a little wooden spindle in the middle of the main square. Get ready to laugh a lot!

View of historical buildings and the countryside in Tuscia Viterbese, Italy
Tuscia Viterbese is pretty popular in Italy but not among the tourists from abroad

Tuscia Viterbese: wine, relax and history

We already told you about our itinerary in the Tuscia Viterbese: we still think it was the most relaxing out of all our romantic Italian getaways!

The Tuscia Viterbese area includes parts of Lazio, Tuscany and Umbria regions. It’s a place full of history, where you can spend a lovely weekend with your better half, walking hand in hand on the shores of Lake Bolsena, eating traditional Italian dishes and learning about the Etruscan history.

The area is best seen in Spring or in February for Valentine’s day– Summer is in fact pretty busy with (mainly) Italian tourists who go there to enjoy the good weather and the lake.

Whether you decide to visit Bisentina or Martana, the two (very) tiny islands on Lake Bolsena, or the picturesque Bomarzo Sacred Grove, remember that you can’t leave without first having a glass of the delicious wine produced in Montefiascone: “Est! Est!! Est!!!”.

If you are visiting for Valentine’s day or off season, remember to book a table in advance to every restaurant you want to go to.
Many restaurants and shops here will be closed off season, so you’ll need time to plan in advance!

Romantic view of Ponte Umberto I in Rome at night
Rome at night is always super romantic!

Rome: Italian history and romance

The Eternal City is one of the most romantic places in Italy and for a good reason.
It’s a big city with so much to see and do, so if you don’t have too much time, you should plan well in advance. That’s the only way you’ll be able to see all the things on your bucket list.

Prepare a list with the best places to go and what you want to see. You should take into account not only how long you’ll be in Rome, but also how much time it’ll take you to reach the area.

If you have rented a car, know that traffic in Rome is a nightmare but finding a parking spot is even worse.

We usually prefer to hop on a fast train from Naples to Rome (it takes about 1 hour), then we use the Rome metro to explore. Aldo absolutely dislikes to drive in our Capital and since the public transport is pretty good, there’s no need to spend over 5€-10€/hour just to park at a private parking.

Whenever possible, prefer the underground public transport to buses. As I mentioned already, Rome is a busy city and traffic jams are going to waste so much of your time.

Buying tickets in advance online is another great idea to avoid long lines. Do not trust people who sell tickets in front of the ancient ruins. Buying online from trusted sellers is mandatory as there are so many scammers!

Fountain of the four rivers in Rome (Italy) on a bright sunny day
Rome is full of monumental fountains less crowded than the Trevi Fountain!

The most romantic walk in Rome, according to the locals, is the one at the Pincio, the first public garden in Rome, built thanks to Napoleon.
The view on Piazza del Popolo from the terrace at the back of Villa Borghese will leave you speechless!

If you’re planning to propose or if you just want to give voice to your feelings, go see the sunset behind the Capitoline Hill (“Campidoglio” in Italian).
Walk up the road that takes to the Town Hall and from above you’ll see a wonderful view of the Roman forum.

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After dinner, if you want to have a night walk and are already in the area, visit the Gianicolo. The view of Rome all lit up is super romantic!

I’m sure you’ve heard of the Fontana di Trevi (Trevi Fountain, the most famous (and crowded) fountain in Rome.
Well, not many people know that on its right there’s another tiny, rectangular fountain.

It goes almost unnoticed, but in Rome they say it’s dedicated to love. A legend in fact claims that if a couple drinks from that fountain, they’ll both stay in love and faithful to each other for life.

Another very beautiful postcard picture of Rome (aside from the Colosseum) you should take is Trinità dei Monti with its famous stairs.

Expect a crowded area, and due to to a recent local law, you won’t even be able to sit on the steps anymore.
The only way to take crowd-free pictures is to wake up early, so you can get there before the hordes of tourists.

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View of the leaning tower of Pisa in Tuscany, Italy
The leaning tower in Pisa is another must see in Italy

Pisa: leaning tower and foodie experiences

Last but not least in our list of the most romantic places in Italy, the magnificent Pisa.

Worldwide famous for its leaning tower, UNESCO World Heritage Site, located in Piazza del Duomo (better known as Campo dei Miracoli), Pisa deserves at least a couple of days.

Rich in history and art, it can be the perfect base for a very romantic Tuscan honeymoon or for a weekend with your special someone.

Not too far away from the Leaning Tower of Pisa, in fact, you can also visit the bell tower, the baptistry and the Duomo.

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A nice walk (less than 1km) will lead you to Piazza dei Cavalieri, one of the most beautiful areas in Pisa.
The gorgeous Palazzo della Carovana houses the prestigious Scuola Normale di Pisa and one of the masterpieces of Giorgio Vasari.
The facade is completely decorated with zodiac signs and allegorical figures.

In Piazza dei Cavalieri you can also visit the Chiesa di Santo Stefano and then move to two less crowded areas generally (mostly) left alone by the tourists.

Please remember that to visit Churches and religious buildings in Italy you have to cover your shoulders: also in summer!

While walking near the Arno river in Florence is not overly peaceful, due to the huge crowds, Pisa is very quiet.
It’s the perfect place to go to if you are planning to pop the question.

Couples who love street art like us should also go see “Tuttomondo”, a huge mural that completely covers the back wall of S. Antonio Church in Pisa, by the American artist Keith Haring.

Pisa is also a popular destination for foodie couples.
Among the most interesting dishes you can find the menu, there are some that you should absolutely order.

The Riso al tartufo alla Pisana (Pisa recipe for risotto with truffles), a traditional Pisa recipe for boar meat, Torta coi bischeri (a traditional cake) and Minestra sullo scio alla moda di Volterra (a delicious local soup).

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Travelling Dany – Danila Caputo

Danila Caputo is a bilingual travel writer living in between Naples and the Amalfi Coast (Italy), graduating from the University of Naples Suor Orsola Benincasa in Foreign Languages and Literature. She travels and works with her husband Aldo, photographer and videographer. Their blog chronicles their adventures around the world, their love for the USA (where they have family), Italian/European culture and tips on how to be responsible travelers. You can find out more about their latest trips and their life on Youtube, Instagram and Facebook.

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66 Comments

  1. I love Italy but I love it even more now I’ve seen this. Your pictures are gorgeous and just remind me that there are tons of places to see in Italy still on my bucket list.

  2. We usually travel together on Valentine day and this is a perfect list. All the romantic Italian getaways mentioned by you here, sound equally tempting. But if I have to choose one for V- day then for sure it will be Cinque Terre or Venice.

  3. Anita Hendrieka says:

    Italy is such a romantic place! I would love to check out the Amalfi coast. I had a friend who went there last year and her pictures look absolutely stunning!

    1. Aw I don’t live too far away, where did your friend go specifically? We love the Amalfi Coast!