In an eternal rivalry with France, Italy prides itself on being one of the most romantic countries in the world. Italy's picturesque seaside villages, historic cities and beautiful countryside are all ripe for an idyllic romantic getaway for couples both young and old. Those looking to nourish the flame of love while in Italy will certainly not want for a more romantic venue nor have a shortage of choice in them.
Venice
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With winding canals, gondolas to ride and narrow streets to get lost on together, it should be of no surprise that Venice ranks high among Italy's most romantic cities. Rich in both natural and man-made beauty, Venice is famous for the waterways that connect the city in lieu of paved streets. During the day, lovers can enjoy some of the best shopping in Europe or dine at small cafes on the waterfront, but when night falls and the sun sets on the city, there is nothing more romantic than an iconic gondola ride through the city's watery streets. Sightseeing is a popular pastime for couples in Venice, with the Piazza San Marco and its cathedral being popular attractions, but the city itself is one big sight to see.
Tuscany
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Couples with an appreciation for Italian art will undoubtedly enjoy Tuscany more than anywhere else in Italy. They will recognize it as the backdrop for some of the most famous pieces of art in the world, making Tuscany literally picturesque. Tuscany is the perfect place for couples to escape the calamity of daily life and finally relax. While life is simple in Tuscany, the detail of the landscape is anything but. Roads are made from cobblestones and the architecture style hasn't changed in hundreds of years, presenting the epitome of old world charm. Nothing embodies romance more than renting out some beautiful Tuscan villa and enjoying some of their world famous wines while overlooking the very vineyard from which it came.
Capri
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For those craving a more natural setting in Italy, the island of Capri is the pinnacle of natural beauty. This small island off the coast of Naples has been a prized vacation spot since Roman times. When visitors catch a glimpse of the Blue Grotto, its romantic appeal will become apparent. The island itself hosts no cars with all transportation functioning by boat, ferry, funicular or on foot. There are no noisy engines and outside the cities there are few crowds. With secluded coves, romantic cliff views over the ocean and fields awash in fragrant flowers, the island of Capri is the perfect place for a pair of lovers to wander hand in hand. For those looking for an even more secluded experience, it is just a hop and skip to the nearby island of Ischia that is rich with thermal pools and hot springs all while being sparse of tourists.
Verona
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Although the setting of one of the most famous literary romantic tragedies of all time, Verona is still an eternal draw to lovers and romantics alike. The romantics flock to Juliet's house to rub the right breast of her statue for luck in their endeavours while couples re-enact the fateful scene of Shakespeare's story on the balcony of the building. However, Juliet's house is not where the romance ends in Verona. A major part of Verona's charm is that it is one of the few famous towns in Italy that is not packed full of tourists. Lovers can enjoy the 2,000 year old open-air Roman arena or a carriage ride past the beautiful architecture down the cobblestone streets, although a simple stroll alongside the river remains a favourite venue for lovers. Even if Verona was the stage of one of the world's greatest tragic romances, couples will always try to make the city a little happier with their successful love.
Lake Como
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As the favourite getaway of Hollywood and European stars alike, a romantic getaway to Lake Como is certain to not be cheap but this romantic venue is sure to sweep any swooning lover off their feet. Surrounded by hills and mountains, Lake Como sits in the Italian Lakes District near Switzerland, giving the landscape not only unparalleled water views but views of the Alps as well. This serene lake offers quaint villas and a number of small towns that sprawl along the beautiful waterfront. Bellagio, known as the pearl of Lake Como, is one of the most romantic villages to grace Lake Como's shores. Visitors can enjoy strolling Bellagio's lakeside promenade to the Villa Meltzi before exploring its varied and beautiful gardens. However, for those looking to have a small town experience around Lake Como or those that just want to escape the crowds will want to flock to the small, but still beautiful other villages like Bellano or Griante. Unlike Bellagio, these small towns boast beautiful views not only from the shore but from the plateaus above the lake.