Top Destinations for a European Honeymoon
For many couples, a honeymoon is a much-needed getaway after months and months of wedding planning. It’s a chance to relax, spend some time together as newlyweds, and more often than not, spoil yourselves at a luxury resort.
What many don’t realise, is that you don’t need to travel to the other side of the world to find somewhere perfect for your honeymoon. In fact, Europe has several places that are ideal for such a romantic occasion.
Here are some of our suggestions for the best honeymoon destinations in Europe and, of course, the best honeymoon hotels to stay in.
France
If romance is what you are after, what better country to visit for your honeymoon than France. With it’s guaranteed world-class cuisine, captivating history, and quiet café culture, it is a place where time slows down just enough for you to enjoy the finer things that it offers.
France is well-known for offering a variety of things to do throughout the country – from seaside sun on the south coast to skiing in the alps, it truly has something for everyone.
Saint Tropez, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Saint Tropez, a coastal town on the French Riviera, is known for its excellent beaches and nightlife – perfect for newlyweds looking for slow mornings and lively evenings. The village is also a fishing port, so be sure to try the seafood while dining out!
The best place to stay for the best possible honeymoon experience is Hotel Sezz Saint Tropez, a 5-star luxury boutique hotel in the middle of two acres of lush grounds. The 25-meter pool, shaded by olive and palm trees, is divine and the Spa Sezz offers some excellent spa treatments and yoga lessons, sure to leave you feeling refreshed and revitalised after your stay.
Paris, Île de la Cité
Paris is an idyllic corner of the world for a romantic, fast-paced honeymoon in the city. If the idea of touring museums, visiting centuries-old cathedrals and trying on French Haute-couture excites you, then this is the destination for you.
We recently highlighted some of the top things to do in the City of Light, so be sure to follow this guide if you choose this as your honeymoon spot.
If you like the idea of visiting Paris but would rather stay somewhere a little quieter, the Tiara Chateau Hotel Mont-Royal is a great choice. Only 35 minutes from Paris and 10 miles away from CDG Airport, it has a peaceful, yet luxurious atmosphere for you and your partner to enjoy.
If you prefer to stay in the middle of all the action, L’Hotel is the city’s smallest luxury boutique hotel in the heart of Paris city-centre. With interiors designed by the exceptional Jacques Garcia, each of the 20 bedrooms are all unique, luxurious, and of course, equipped with an impressive minibar.
Italy
Good wine, great food and incredible landscape. Need we say more?
Italy has always been a fail-proof destination for European travellers and when it comes to your honeymoon, nothing less than perfect will do. Plus, who doesn’t want to listen to the melodic Italian language while sipping a latte under the Italian sun?
Positano, Amalfi Coast
The 50-kilometre stretch of the Amalfi coast is made even more picturesque with the existence of Positano. The pastel colour village, perfectly situated on a rugged hillside overlooking the sea, will make a perfect backdrop for any honeymoon.
Plus, temperatures remain pleasant all year round, with day-time highs reaching 35 degrees in the summer and lows of 15 degrees in the winter, making it a safe choice if you want to avoid potentially harsh weather conditions.
When it comes to places to stay, the Hotel Villa Franca is the place to be. It’s a unique 5-star contemporary hotel offering guests a dining experience of a lifetime. The kitchen is headed by Executive Chef Savio Perna in collaboration with multi Michelin Star winning culinary superstar, Chef Nino di Costanzo to craft a masterful menu. The culinary expertise combined with a superb view makes this a fabulous choice for all the foodie couples out there.
Portugal
If a slow, sun-filled honeymoon is what you had in mind, then you’re in luck. Portugal, a small, yet diverse country, boasts 3000 hours of sunshine and 850 km of pristine beaches according to Visit Portugal. Plus, if you are a fan of wine, the country specialises in Port (or Porto), a type of fortified wine that is simply sublime.
Porto
Stepping into Porto will transport you back in time with its medieval architecture and narrow cobblestone streets. It is one of the more affordable places in Western Europe and is made for exploring by foot. It’s also a good choice for a couple looking to plan their trip around dining out, as the city has many talented chefs waiting to welcome you.
Nestled on the banks of the Douro River is The Pestana Palacio do Freixo, an 18th-century hotel in Baroque architecture. Classified as a national monument, the hotel opened its doors to guests in 2009. Since then, it’s made a name for itself with its first-class hospitality and sophisticated restaurant serving traditional local cuisine.
Greece
Choosing Greece for your honeymoon will be one that you won’t regret. This country has everything for a romantic getaway, including incredible local generosity, tasty Mediterranean food, and all the ouzo your heart desires.
Greece has also done a wonderful job at preserving its priceless history, with numerous archaeological sites and museums throughout the country. So if you and your partner are curious about the beginnings of human civilisation, then there will be no lack of places to explore.
Mykonos
The Greek islands are a cosy retreat for couples and will ensure that stunning ‘white-building-on-a-hill’ image that many of us have of the country. The island of Mykonos is especially beautiful and offers a particularly vivid atmosphere for visitors during the summer. It is also a gay-friendly destination, welcoming LGBT+ guests from all over the world.
Opening in summer of 2020, The Townhouse Mykonos is a great option for a place to stay, as it is built on Manto Square in the centre of old Mykonos Town with a view of the harbour and just 600 meters from Little Venice and the island’s iconic windmills.
Malta
Nestled in the heart of the Mediterranean sea is the beautiful island of Malta – a sun-filled destination ideal for a sporty, adventure-seeking couple.
The island has no shortage of spa and wellness clubs and outdoor adventure activities to keep you busy and feeling fit during your honeymoon. It also has an incredible history – 7,000 years of history, that is. So be sure to take in its museums and incredible architecture while you are there.
Valletta
Valletta, the tiny capital city of Malta, is found on the small island’s east coast and is described as ‘one of the most concentrated historic areas in the world’ according to Lonely Planet.
Hotel Phoenicia Malta is found in the heart of the capital, just beside the gates to the historic old town. It is just a few minutes walk to the city centre where guests will find many restaurants, cafés, and shopping. What’s more, the hotel is one-half kilometre from the National Museum of Archaeology and the National Museum of Fine Arts!
Explore the possibilities
These aren’t the only destinations in Europe that will give you an unforgettable Honeymoon. If you need more inspiration, visit our Honeymoon collection to explore our selection of hotels fit for your romantic escape.