In the spirit of Valentines Day
Paris, France
It’s no big surprise Paris is on this list! Well deserving of course beginning with the Eiffel Tower, where views of the Arc de Triomphe, Sacré Coeur Basilica and the River Seine can be enjoyed by all. Just taking a stroll along the River Seine while stopping on the Pont Neuf and visiting the Notre Dame Cathedral makes for a romantic afternoon. Add to this, the Louvre for art lovers, the ritzy shops along Champs Elysees for style lovers, the countless cafes and restaurants for food lovers and famous jazz clubs for music lovers, to create your perfect lovers’ getaway.
Venice, Italy
Venice is all about its beautiful canals best enjoyed on a gondola ride. Following this relaxing float, begin at Piazza San Marco, the city square, and make your way through the many winding narrow streets to find hidden shops, galleries and restaurants offering up truly authentic fares. Other must-sees include the Ponte dell’ Accademia, a bridge across the Grand Canal, and Campo dei Miracoli a marble church. After all the sightseeing, stop in a Venetian wine bar for a glass of wine.
Barcelona, Spain
Ponder at the truly one-of-a-kind designs by architect Antoni Gaudi which can be found throughout Barcelona, especially basilica Sagrada Familia and La Pedrera. Then walk along Barcelona’s most famous and lively street, Las Ramblas stopping in your choice of cool shops and cafes. But the romantic must-do in Barcelona is to go to a flamenco show and then practice a few of your own moves. All this touring calls for a tapas crawl, sampling some of Spain’s best food in saucer-size portions and finishing off your evening in a chirinquitos (beach bar).
Vienna, Austria
Vienna, Mozart’s hometown, is the perfect place to see an orchestra, especially a performance by the Vienna Philharmonic. Austria’s capital is also great for long walks through the main streets, laid out in rings with lots of little shops and cafes; don’t miss streets like Karntnerstrasse. Enjoy the architecture and stylized facades the passing buildings too, without missing a visit to Stephansdom, Vienna’s glorious Gothic cathedral and Schönbrunn Palace, an important cultural monument.
Prague, Czech Republic
Prague has old world charm from the Old Town Square, where on the hour you can hear the chime of the 600-year-old astronomical clock, to Charles Bridge, spanning the Vltava River and displaying many Baroque statues. Explore cobblestone lanes, medieval courtyards, numerous churches and Prague Castle. Just outside the castle walls is Golden Lane, where shops selling music, books and crafts are carved out of colorful, 16th-century homes. Finish off the evening with a great meal on the river bank.
Thinking of taking a romantic tour around Europe?
The great news is that the Eurail Global Pass covers all of the above cities and many more. Or if your focus falls on one or two countries in particular, then a Eurail National Pass or Eurail Regional Pass would best suit your itinerary. Browse the full selection of train passes in Europe.