These Are the Most Romantic Cities in the World

The French capital is sometimes called the City of Love, making Paris an obvious destination for romance. Whisper sweet nothings over espresso at a cafe, picnic under the twinkling Eiffel Tower lights, and stroll hand-in-hand along the Seine—how could you not fall in love?

Widely lauded as one of the world’s most romantic cities, the car-free town of Venice encourages long walks along the canals and enchanting rides aboard a private gondola. Paired with stunning architecture and decadent food, it’s no wonder Venice is one of the top spots for honeymooners, or anyone looking for amore.

Many come to Kyoto to explore historic temples, shrines, monuments and sanctuaries, though if you’re looking for some direction on your love life, the answers may be found there as well. There are a handful of spots said to be known matchmakers, like the Yasui Konpira-gu Shrine that houses a power stone rumored to bind good relationships and end bad. If all goes well, enjoy the city’s luxurious accommodations and incredible dining with your verified true love.

Design lovers will marvel at this European city's architectural beauty—some of its buildings date beyond the 14th century! Journey across Charles Bridge—the oldest of hundreds across the city—then cool off with a pint of beer in a local pub; the city is famous for its pilsners.

A visit to Savannah is a step back in time, with centuries-old oak trees draped in Spanish moss, historic homes on every corner, and no shortage of Southern charm. After a day spent wandering the 22 (!) park squares—one of which was the backdrop for Forrest Gump’s famous lessons on life—grab a cocktail for a leisurely stroll down the cobbled River Street (it's legal to bring them with you).

Celebrate your fairy-tale romance in a city plucked out of a storybook: Bruges is marked by its cobblestone streets, winding canals, and brick Gothic architecture perfect for writing the next chapter of your own love story.

There’s something extra dreamy about waterfront towns, and Udaipur is surrounded by a total of seven sparkling lakes serving as the backdrop for stunning sunsets. Journey to the middle of Lake Pichola for a memorable stay at the Taj Lake Palace, a grandiose marble hotel constructed in the 1740s.

Lucerne is a culmination of everything that makes Switzerland swoonworthy: snow-capped mountains surround the lakeside town and its medieval architecture, setting an immaculate stage seemingly built for falling in love. Plus, shared fondue and decadent Swiss chocolate are sure to make you melt even more.

The California village of Carmel-by-the-Sea may draw visitors due to its seaside location alone, but the luxury lodging, quaint shops, incredible restaurants, and small-town charm make this a favorite destination for romance. Toast to love at one of the village’s wine tasting rooms, then settle in for the evening at your charming fairy-tale cottage.

Few things rival the romanticism of an overwater bungalow, and those found in Bora Bora offer the privacy and dazzling views many are looking for in an amorous escape. The secluded white-sand beaches, sparkling turquoise water, and large selection of luxury hotels combine to award Bora Bora the moniker, “The Romantic Island.”