The Most Romantic Places in Italy – 21 Dreamy Locales

Honeymoon Positano

Romance can mean different things to different people, but few destinations universally capture its essence like Italy. From sun-dappled vineyards to dramatic coastal cliffs and cities bursting with art and history, this country has long been synonymous with love and passion. Couples from around the world visit Italy to experience la dolce vita (the good life) in this charming slice of Southern Europe.

If you’re planning your own trip to Italy, you may already be familiar with its timeless allure — and diverse range of bucket-list destinations. Lovers can lose themselves in the labyrinthine streets and canals of Venice, bask in the golden hues of Tuscany’s rolling hills, or indulge in fresh seafood along the Amalfi Coast. For those seeking tranquillity, Lake Como’s serene waters and hillside villages promise a peaceful retreat with a dash of A-lister glamour. And for art and design enthusiasts, Florence offers a feast of Renaissance splendour to explore together.

While the grand icons — such as Rome’s iconic architecture or Verona’s literary legacy — are unmissable, it’s often the smaller hidden corners that linger in memory: a quiet piazza at twilight, a sun-drenched terrace overlooking olive groves, or a shared gelato on a cobblestone street. Whether you’re planning a honeymoon, anniversary, or a well-deserved getaway, Italy feels custom-made for romance. Here are 20 of Italy’s most romantic destinations, each providing a uniquely beautiful setting for two.

1.Rome: Where Love Walks Through Time

Rome, Italy - Vatican

Although Italy’s charismatic capital brims with history, a romantic getaway in Rome is about more than ticking off cultural landmarks — it’s an immersive journey through food, art, and passion shared with the one you love.

Colosseum-Rome

Couples can explore the grandeur of the Colosseum in the morning and then seek quiet moments in the Orange Gardens on Aventine Hill, where views stretch across the city’s terracotta rooftops. Stroll along Trastevere’s well-worn cobblestone streets and discover piazzas that feel like secrets. As twilight falls, find a secluded spot by the River Tiber, watching the city reflect its golden lights.

Of course, there are plenty of iconic things to do in Rome — take a Vespa tour, scale the Spanish Steps, and toss coins into the Trevi Fountain as you make a wish — but there are also plenty of hidden highlights. By night, the city reveals another layer with moonlit ruins, lively street performers, and classic carbonara served in warmly lit trattorias. Rome is a place that will live on in your hearts for a lifetime.

Couples will love Rome’s captivating energy and effortless balance of monumental splendour and intimate spaces.

Related: Your Comprehensive Travel Guide to Rome (for Couples!)

2. Venice: Reflection & Romance

Venice

We’re not the first to say it, but Venice really is one of the most romantic places in Italy. Your first glimpse comes as you glide along the Grand Canal, the water flickering with light from palaces seemingly suspended in the lagoon. But Venice isn’t always an easy lover. It can be bewildering for first-timers lost in its crowds and maze of alleys. Yet, just when frustration sets in, this floating city reveals its magic — perhaps in the silence of a gondola gliding down a shimmering canal or the unexpected charm of a sunlit square, untouched by tourists.

Start where Venice is most striking: the Grand Canal. A Vaporetto (public ‘water bus’) ride feels like entering a living painting, with facades leaning into the water. Lose yourselves in Cannaregio’s quieter streets, where you might stumble upon a weathered stone bridge, or a café filled with locals sipping espresso. Share cicchetti (Venetian snacks) in a bustling bar or visit Torcello for its Byzantine mosaics. At sunset, climb San Giorgio Maggiore’s bell tower for breathtaking views of domes and spires glowing in golden light.

By night, the crowds fade, and the city softens. Sit together on a bridge, the whispering canals below you, and let Venice draw you closer.

Couples will love a place where getting lost is part of the magic.

3. Positano: Amalfi Dreams

Positana View
Positano Village

“It is a dream place that isn’t quite real when you are there and becomes beckoningly real after you’ve gone,” wrote John Steinbeck of Positano in 1953. Perched along the cliffs of the Amalfi Coast, around an hour south of Naples, this village remains a vision of colour and light. With pastel houses spilling down the hillsides, winding alleys fragrant with lemon blossoms, and the shimmering expanse of the Mediterranean stretching to the horizon, you’ll feel Steinbeck’s words ring true today.

And while Positano’s beauty is undeniable, its allure lies in its rhythm. Start your day with an unhurried breakfast overlooking the main beach (Spiaggia Grande), where fishing boats dot the bay, and the hum of morning life rises gently through the air. A private boat tour offers a more intimate connection with the coastline, revealing secret grottos and turquoise coves.

For keen walkers and nature-lovers, the region’s endlessly scenic Path of the Gods provides a unique hiking experience with breathtaking coastal views that seem to stretch forever. But even a simple wander through Positano’s steep streets is a feast for the senses — colourful ceramics in shop windows, the sweet tang of Amalfi lemons, and the occasional glimpse of the sea framed by cascading bougainvillea.

As day turns to dusk, Positano transforms. The golden light of sunset washes over the village, turning its pastel buildings into a palette of warm hues. Couples linger over long dinners on terraces perched high above the water, the aroma of fresh seafood mingling with the cool evening breeze. Whether it’s a lively trattoria or a quiet corner by the sea, every meal feels like a celebration.

Couples will love Positano’s iconic scenery and irresistible seaside vibe.

4. Florence: Capital of Art & Indulgence

Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance and the capital of Italy’s Tuscany region, offers couples an experience rich in history, beauty, and shared moments. Start your journey at the Ponte Vecchio, the city’s iconic bridge, where jewellery shops spill light onto cobbled pathways, and the Arno River glides peacefully below. A stroll here, especially at twilight, sets the perfect tone for your visit.

For art lovers, the Uffizi Gallery is unmissable, showcasing masterpieces by Botticelli, Michelangelo, and da Vinci. To truly savour the experience, consider an early morning visit when the galleries are quieter, leaving more space for shared awe. Outside, Florence itself feels like a living museum, with the intricate details of the Duomo and Palazzo Vecchio drawing you further into its spell.

Escape the bustle with a walk in the Boboli Gardens, where manicured paths, fountains, and sculptures invite a slower pace. For a more personal touch, join a Tuscan cooking class, learning take-home skills such as crafting traditional handmade pasta.

As the day winds down, climb to Piazzale Michelangelo for panoramic views of the city bathed in sunset hues. With a glass of local Chianti in hand, you’ll find yourselves savouring not just the vista but the moment. Evenings in Florence belong to the chic Oltrarno district, where candlelit trattorias serve seasonal dishes in intimate settings.

Couples will love the seamless blend of artistic wonders and intimate moments, creating space for both awe and connection.

Related: Here’s How to Spend 48 Hours in Florence

5. Lake Como & Bellagio: A-lister Appeal

Lake Como

Nestled among the rugged peaks of the Italian Alps, Lake Como has attracted artists, writers, and dreamers for centuries. Even today, it offers a sense of tranquillity that feels rare in our fast-paced world.

Bellagio, often dubbed the ‘Pearl of Lake Como’, captures the essence of this region. Its streets are lined with family-run shops and flower-filled balconies, leading to quiet corners with sweeping lake views.

For a glimpse of Lake Como’s grandeur, start your day at Villa Carlotta in Tremezzo. Its terraced gardens are pure delight, spilling down toward the lake and dotted with classical sculptures and bursts of colour. Then charter a boat to glide across the lake, passing by opulent villas such as Villa Balbianello, whose gardens and panoramic views have inspired writers, filmmakers, and dreamers alike.

Bellagio itself invites slow exploration. Stroll through the Villa Melzi Gardens, where quiet paths wind through exotic flora and statues overlooking the glistening lake. Pause for a gelato or linger at a lakeside café with a crisp glass of local wine, soaking in the tranquillity.

The village is also the perfect jumping-off point for visiting nearby gems like Varenna, where brightly coloured houses hug the water’s edge, or Menaggio, with its charming piazzas and waterfront promenade.

As the day softens into the evening, Lake Como reveals its most magical side. Golden light dances across the water while the surrounding mountains reflect a shifting palette of pink and orange. A lakeside aperitivo in Bellagio is the perfect way to end the day.

Couples will love the region’s natural beauty and timeless elegance, offering a stunning backdrop for romance.

6. Verona: Shakespearean Seduction

Verona-Italy

Verona is a city where romance lives not just in legend but in every piazza, cobblestone, and riverside café. Immortalised as the setting for Romeo and Juliet, this gem of northern Italy offers more than Shakespearean nostalgia — it’s a place where history and modern life coexist with an effortless charm.

Start your day at Casa di Giulietta (Juliet’s House)early enough to avoid the throng of tourists snapping selfies at Juliet’s Balcony. While the balcony itself is more symbolic than historic, it’s worth seeing to soak in the literary magic. For a more rewarding view of the city’s terracotta rooftops and the Adige River snaking below, climb to Piazzale Castel San Pietro.

Verona’s compact centre is brimming with elegant boutiques and design shops tucked into centuries-old buildings. Step into one, and you might find a hidden basement layered with Roman stonework. Whether it’s contemporary pieces at Seletti or vintage treasures at Averhoff, this juxtaposition of past and present is uniquely Veronese.

As evening falls, head to the Arena di Verona, where opera still echoes through a Roman amphitheatre that predates much of the city. Verona doesn’t try too hard to be romantic — it simply is.

Couples will love Verona’s Shakespearean connections, historic highlights and cultural vibe — and the city’s compact size makes it perfect for exploring hand in hand.

7. Milan: City of Style

Milan Cathederal - known as Duomo milan

While Milan and luxury go hand in hand, Italy’s capital of style also delivers on romance. This cosmopolitan northern hub is packed with stunning architecture, gorgeous gardens, and swanky hotels.

Picnic in a park with the one you love or follow the spires to Milan’s most jaw-dropping landmark: the Duomo di Milano. This towering, Gothic-style masterpiece took centuries to build — but clearly worth the wait with its 55 stained glass windows, 100+ gargoyles, 135 spires, and thousands of statues. Take the lift to the upper terraces for a closer look and breathtaking views across the city.

For fashionistas keen to experience the birthplace of iconic brands including Armani, Prada, and Marni, shop your way around the majestic Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II and seek out smaller boutiques for fashion-forward finds.

Couples will love Milan’s eternally chic vibe. And with the city set to co-host the Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2026, it’s the perfect time to put Milan in the mix when planning your trip to Italy.

Related: A Stylish Short Break in Beautiful Milan

8. Matera: Step Back in Time

Southern Italy’s ‘city of caves’ is a unique addition to any Italian itinerary thanks to its spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sassi di Matera. The history of this rocky landscape dates to the Palaeolithic period when the first human inhabitants lived in the region’s caves. Over time, churches, houses and monasteries were carved into the rock, creating an otherworldly scene that served as a backdrop for the 2021 James Bond film No Time to Die.

Wander through ancient alleys, soak up Matera’s golden glow on sunset, and enjoy candlelit meals in cave restaurants, where the rustic setting pairs perfectly with rich regional cuisine. You can even bunk down in one of the region’s cosy cave hotels or B&Bs.

Couples will love Matera’s rugged beauty and unique architectural wonders — a memorable side trip from nearby coastal hubs such as Puglia.

Related: 37 Famous Landmarks in Italy

9. Capri: Seaside Glamour

Capri-Italy

One of Italy’s most famous islands, Capri, rises like a jewel from the Bay of Naples. For centuries, this place has drawn emperors and icons alike. Augustus and Tiberius sought refuge here, the latter ruling the Roman Empire from Villa Jovis for over a decade. In the mid-20th century, Jackie Onassis and her Capri pants cemented the island’s status as the epitome of la dolce vita.

Today, the glamour remains, but Capri’s true magic lies in its contrasts: rugged natural beauty paired with effortless sophistication.

Compact yet full of possibilities, Capri is divided into two distinct towns. Capri town hums with energy, its lanes flanked by chic boutiques and lemon groves. Anacapri, perched higher, offers a quieter charm, with panoramic views and a slower pace.

The single-seat chairlift to Monte Solaro reveals the island’s dramatic contours — a sweep of cliffs and turquoise waters framed by the bay. The hike down is equally stunning, with terraced gardens and scenic pathways to explore.

The best way to understand Capri, however, is from the water. A boat ride around the island unveils its wilder side: hidden coves, towering rock formations, and the famed Blue Grotto, where sunlight transforms the cave into a luminous pool of blue.

Capri’s evenings invite romance. As the last ferry departs, the beloved Piazzetta takes on an intimate air, its café tables perfect for an aperitivo as the sky turns gold. Dinner might mean ravioli caprese, stuffed with local cheese and herbs or a slice of torta caprese paired with a glass of crisp Falanghina. And always, there’s limoncello — icy and fragrant, a distillation of Capri’s sunlit groves.

Couples will love Capri’s intoxicating mix of chill and chic.

10. Val d’Orcia: True Romance in Tuscany

Val d'Orcia-Italy

The Val d’Orcia is Tuscany distilled — a sweeping landscape of golden hills, ancient cypress-lined roads, and medieval villages that whisper of history and romance. Nestled in southeastern Tuscany between Siena and the Umbrian border, with the imposing Monte Amiata standing sentinel to the south, this UNESCO World Heritage site invites couples to pause and savour a timeless world.

At the heart of the region lies Bagno Vignoni, a thermal village where history bubbles up with the spring water. Its central square, Piazza delle Sorgenti, features a 16th-century pool of warm thermal waters that have soothed pilgrims and luminaries alike. While the pool is off-limits for bathing, nearby spas offer restorative retreats, and the Parco dei Mulini showcases ancient water mills that once harnessed the thermal currents.

Just a short drive away is Pienza, a Renaissance dream realised by Pope Pius II, whose sweeping views and charming alleys make it the ideal spot for a stroll. The aroma of pecorino cheese fills the air, tempting you to linger at a local market or café. Montalcino, famed for its Brunello wine, offers vineyard tours and tastings that unfold with Tuscan hospitality, while San Quirico d’Orcia captivates with its medieval charm and the historic Collegiate Church of San Quirico.

Couples will love the quiet elegance of Val d’Orcia, where magic lies in leisurely drives and sunlit toasts. Saluti!

11. Cinque Terre: Coast with the Most

Cinque Terre-Italy

The five villages of Cinque Terre — Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore — offer a chance to experience northern Italy’s raw coastal beauty. Part of the Italian Riveria in the pretty Liguria region, this is a bucket-list mainstay for many couples and honeymooners.

Spend your days hiking the scenic trails that connect the fishing villages, or take a leisurely boat ride along the coastline, marvelling at the colourful homes that cling to the rugged cliffs. Each village offers something unique: Manarola’s relaxed charm, Vernazza’s vibrant harbour, and Riomaggiore’s dramatic sunsets. Pause to savour fresh seafood and local white wine at a seaside trattoria.

Couples will love the simplicity, authenticity and stunning scenery of Cinque Terre.

12. Lake Garda: Waterfront Charmer

Lake Garda-Italy

If you’re planning a trip to Venice and Verona, nearby Lake Garda offers an enchanting addition. Start your day exploring Sirmione, where the town’s 14th-century Scaligero Castle rises dramatically from the water. Wander through the charming streets before relaxing at the town’s renowned thermal baths.

For adventure-seeking couples, the lake’s surrounding hills are ideal for hiking or cycling, with trails that reveal breathtaking views. Take time to enjoy the idyllic villages dotted along the shoreline, including Malcesine and Limone sul Garda, and end the day with a sunset cruise as the colours of the sky reflect off the lake’s tranquil waters.

Couples will love Lake Garda’s laidback mix of waterfront pleasures, cultural discovery, and Mediterranean charm.

13. Cortina d’Ampezzo: Winter Wonderland

Cortina d'Ampezzo-Italy

Set to co-host the Winter Olympics with Milan in 2026 (see #7), Cortina d’Ampezzo is perfect for couples who love to get their schuss on. Set in an alpine valley on the Boite River, protected by the mighty Dolomite Mountains, this scenic region is known for its summer and winter sports and upscale après-ski scene. The best part for powder hounds? Cortina d’Ampezzo is part of the Dolomiti Superski area, allowing you to access450 ski lifts and 1,200 km of ski slopes in twelve different skiing areas using a single pass.

Couples will love joining the jet-set and discovering the ‘Queen of the Dolomites’.

14. Portofino: Riviera Romance

portofino-Italy

No list of Italy’s most romantic places would be complete without Portofino. Part of the Italian Riviera in the northwest of the country, this beloved getaway is characterised by postcard-perfect scenery and the gelato-hued houses lining the harbour.

Spend your morning exploring the narrow streets and boutique shops before hiking the scenic trails of Portofino Regional Park. Paraggi Beach offers a secluded spot for a swim in crystal-clear waters, while the nearby coves beckon with hidden charm.

Stop by Castello Brown, a 15th-century castle fortress turned private residence/museum, where panoramic views of the Mediterranean stretch as far as the eye can see. As the evening descends, savour a seafood feast at a waterfront restaurant, watching the harbour lights dance on the water.

Couples will love the refined tranquillity of Portofino, where romance is woven into every detail of the experience.

15. Taormina: See you in Sicily

Taormina-Italy

Beyond its famous volcano and Godfather vibes, Italy’s southern isle of Sicily is brimming with holiday treasures. On the island’s east coast, perched high above the Ionian Sea, Taormina is a couple favourite that recently garnered attention as a setting for The White Lotus.

The Greek Theatre is a must-visit, where breathtaking views of Mount Etna and the sea create a dramatic backdrop. Spend the afternoon at Isola Bella, a tiny island connected to the mainland by a sandbar, perfect for sunbathing or snorkelling.

Stroll along Corso Umberto, Taormina’s lively main street, lined with boutiques and cafes. In the evening, savour a meal at a cliffside restaurant, with the sea sparkling below and Mount Etna silhouetted against the night sky.

Couples will love Taormina’s intoxicating mix of history, scenery, and effortless Sicilian charm.

16. Assisi: Spiritual Connection

Assisi-Italy

Umbria’s Assisi clinched a spot on our most romantic places in Italy shortlist as it offers a unique option for a couples’ getaway. As the birthplace of St. Francis, Assisi holds deep significance, making it an ideal retreat for couples looking for a meaningful romantic experience.

The heritage-listed Basilica of St. Francis, one of Italy’s great artistic sights, is at the heart of Assisi’s charm for many. Inside, the frescoes by Giotto and other medieval masters tell the story of St. Francis. Arrive early, when the soft morning light filters through the basilica, for a serene and intimate experience.

Assisi’s appeal extends beyond its landmarks. The town’s charming cobblestone streets are home to artisanal shops nestled in historic stone buildings and inviting cafes spilling into peaceful, sunlit squares. Further afield, the Via di Francesco, a pilgrimage trail leading to Rome, weaves through the countryside, inviting leisurely walks through rolling hills.

Couples will love Assisi’s spiritual significance and atmosphere of quiet connection and wonder.

17. Ischia: An Undiscovered Idyll

Ischia-Italy

Long overshadowed by its more glamorous neighbour Capri, Ischia is finally garnering attention for its unpolished allure. This volcanic island in the Tyrrhenian Sea offers a glimpse of days gone by as the rhythms of local life continue unfettered. Laundry sways between pastel facades, religious processions wend through cobbled streets, and Vespas buzz along quiet coastal roads.

The island’s thermal springs and healing waters have been revered since antiquity. From the secluded pools of Sorgeto to the refined gardens of Negombo, these natural sanctuaries invite moments of peaceful rejuvenation. For couples, the scene is set for connection — be it in a hot spring or over a bottle of local Biancolella wine.

Ischia also rewards exploration. Hike to Monte Epomeo for sweeping views of the Tyrrhenian’s expanse, or wander the La Mortella Gardens, a lush enclave that blends Mediterranean flora with exotic surprises.

Couples will love the unhurried rhythm of Ischia — a place where the noise of modern life fades, leaving room for the timeless beauty of shared moments.

18. Trento: A Snow-Dusted Dream

Trento-Italy

Set against the soaring peaks of the Dolomites, Trento is perfect for history buffs and ski bunnies alike. As the capital of Italy’s northern Trentino region, it’s a destination that feels at once timeless and refreshingly undiscovered.

Begin your journey at Buonconsiglio Castle, a masterpiece of medieval and Renaissance artistry that whispers stories of Trentino’s storied past. For a more elevated perspective, take the cable car to Sardagna, where views of the Adige Valley stretch to the horizon. Or wander Trento’s historic centre, where cobblestone streets lead to stately piazzas framed by vibrant frescoed facades.

Between November and April, the Trentino region transforms into a winter wonderland with world-class facilities, alpine ski hotels, and endless opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, sledging, ice skating, and après ski.

Couples will love Trento’s historic highlights and captivating alpine appeal.

19. Cagliari: Island Life

Cagliari-Italy

Italy’s western isle of Sardinia is home to a real holiday gem in the form of its vibrant capital, Cagliari. This stunning destination combines coastal delights with a thousand years of history. Explore the Castello district, a labyrinth of ancient streets, panoramic terraces, and historic churches, or look out for the flocks of flamingos as you stroll the nearby Molentargius Park.

The surrounding beaches, such as Poetto and Tuerredda, provide the perfect backdrop for relaxation, while a day trip to the ancient city of Nora allows you to step back in time together. As the sun sets, the city’s lively piazzas come alive with music, food, and laughter.

Couples will love Cagliari’s dynamic blend of cultural discovery and seaside serenity.

20. Barga: Tuscany for Two

Barga-Italy

Nestled in the Tuscan hills, Barga is a village of unparalleled charm and perfect for couples seeking something off the beaten path. Climb to the Cathedral of San Cristoforo for panoramic views of the surrounding valleys, or simply wander the narrow lanes, hand in hand. Its narrow lanes, medieval walls, and terracotta rooftops. For an authentic Tuscan experience, enjoy a traditional meal at a family-run trattoria, where the flavours of the region shine through every dish.

Couples will love the quiet beauty and authenticity of Barga, a place that feels like your own secret corner of Tuscany.

Well, there you have it, 20 of the most romantic places in Italy, each offering its own unique charm. Whether you seek cultural immersion, natural splendour, or quiet intimacy, we hope you find the perfect setting to create memories with the one you love.

Pisa: Leaning into Love

Leaning-Tower-of-Pisa-Pisa

To close out our list of Italy’s most romantic cities, we couldn’t go past the sheer Insta-appeal of Pisa — yes, home to that leaning tower. Set on the banks of the Arno River, an hour west of Florence in northern Tuscany, Pisa is perfect as a day trip or for a longer honeymoon stay. The heart of the city holds the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Piazza dei Miracoli (Plaza of Miracles) where you can marvel at the 56-metre Leaning Tower of Pisa and explore the Duomo Santa Maria Assunta (Pisa Cathedral), and equally stunning Pisa Baptistry. This city will surprise you with its vibrant food, shopping and dining scene, spectacular medieval architecture, and riverside charm.

Couples will love Leaning Tower selfies and romantic sunset strolls in this often-overlooked Tuscan city.

Related: How to plan the perfect honeymoon in Italy // The Best Honeymoon Destinations in Europe

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