The Most Romantic City Break Destinations

Whether it’s a minimoon, honeymoon or you’re planning a proposal, these romantic city break destinations will win you some serious brownie points with your better half.

Romantic City Break Destinations for your Honeymoon, Anniversary or Proposal

New York

Bask in newlywed glow in the city that never sleeps. With all the excitement that Manhattan has to offer, it’s easy to forget the other districts that make up New York City. Take a stroll beyond Brooklyn Bridge to discover the borough’s secret gems, or if waterside views are more your thing, the Staten Island Ferry is the ideal way to soak up the sights from the Hudson river. When it comes to eating and drinking, schedule in a trip to Bubby’s in Lower Manhattan and brunch on pancakes and pie. Pay a visit to Brooklyn’s night bazaar then seek out New York’s hidden Prohibition-era bars after dark.

We recommend:

The Museum of Ice Cream remains well hidden from the tourist trail. Is there anything better than an afternoon spent bathing in a lake of sprinkles and sampling giant sundaes?

Where to stay:

Check into The Carlyle, a boutique retreat on the Upper East Side, for a true Manhattan experience. Expect plush art-deco styled suites, French haute cuisine and stunning views of central par. From £362 per night. 

Book your stay at The Carlyle, a Rosewood Hotel.

Read more: The Ultimate Guide to a New York Minimoon 

Venice

When it comes to the most romantic city break destinations, this canal-lined Italian idyll is giving Paris a run for its money. Many couples choose that pair a trip to Venice with visits to Rome or Florence, however there’s plenty to keep you busy if you decided to spend your entire honeymoon here. Hop on a water taxi and venture to the outlying islands of Murano – known for their beautiful blown-glass sculptures – and Burano – famed for hand-stitched lace and tapestries. If its art and architecture you’re in to, Saint Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace are a must.

We recommend:

A Gondola ride is, while a little pricey, a natural part of the Venetian experience and a highlight of the romantic city break. Don’t forget to steal a kiss under the Bridge of Sighs; those who do so are send to be bound together forever.

Where to stay:

Nestled within the San Polo district and housed in a 16th century palace is Aman Venice. Balancing contemporary style with historic treasures, the hotel gives a real taste of Venice. Oh, and George and Amal Clooney celebrated their marriage here. From £1,240 per night.

Book your stay at Aman Venice.

Kyoto

The Instagram-worthy credentials of this postcard-pretty metropolis are myriad. However, Kyoto is often overlooked as a honeymoon destination – but this only makes it more of a hidden gem. Spring or Autumn are the best times to visit as there are fewer tourists and city is at its most colourful. Perfect for active couples (or those wanting to grab the perfect pic for the ‘gram), take the half-hour hike up Mount Daimonji in the late afternoon to catch the sunset over the Arashiyama mountains.

We recommend:

A stroll beside the Okazaki Canal within the Kyoto Botanical Garden, where cherry blossom thrives around March-April time, is simply unmissable. A trip to Nara should also be on your hitlist during a romantic city break. The deer are tame and bow down to you to ask for food.

Where to stay:

The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto. The Picturesque Kamo River and Higashiyama mountains surround this ryokan-inspired paradise. Expect to be dazzled by spectacular views from the comfort of a Kyoto-luxe suite. From £589 per night.

Book your stay at the Ritz-Carlton Kyoto.

Budapest

Fun fact: Budapest is actually split into two places, Buda and Pest, divided by the River Danube.

Buda, on the west bank, is known as the ancient capital of Hungary. Here, on the hillier side of the city, you’ll find historic buildings, shops and traditional décor. For panoramic views across the river Climb up to Fisherman’s Bastion, a 19th century terrace that sits atop Buda’s famous castle hill and affirms Budapest as one of the most romantic city break destinations. If you fancy a dip, head to one of the city’s thermal baths. The Gellért Baths are considered to be a visual delight, with intricate majolica tiles and impressive Roman columns.

Pest, over on the other side of the river, is a hub for nightlife, modern eateries and the grander landmarks, such as the Hungarian National Parliament and St Stephen’s Basilica. Here a climb up 364 stairs will reward you with mesmerising 360-degree views.

We recommend:

Visit the Great Market Hall to satisfy any hunger pangs on. Alongside the fruit and veg, you’ll also find counters stacked with meats, cheeses and baked goods (as well as about 24352 variations of Paprika).

Where to stay:

The Aria Hotel Budapest is a new-age Hungarian hotspot found right in the heart of capital’s best-known landmarks, just a stone’s throw from St Stephen’s Basilica. Make the most of the sumptuous underground spa, beautiful garden courtyard and decadent restaurants. From £263 per night. 

Read More:

Want more wedding information and inspiration? Just hit ‘Like’ on our Wedding Ideas Facebook page, and ‘Follow’ on our @wimagazine Twitter account to join in the conversation.