Most romantic city in Europe named – and it’s not Paris or Venice | Europe | Travel

March 12, 2026

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This beautiful European city has been named the most romantic (Image: Getty Images)

Europe’s most romantic city has been revealed, and it may come as a surprise.

Paris, France, has traditionally been celebrated as the ‘city of love’, attracting countless proposals, while Venice, Italy, provides sunset gondola journeys through its canals. However, according to one recent study, both destinations have been eclipsed as Europe’s most romantic cities.

The sun-drenched Spanish capital, Madrid, has claimed the title thanks to its historic allure and intimate ambience. Featuring cosy eateries, elevated bars, boutique hotels, alongside magnificent landmarks, dynamic street art, and spirited flamenco shows, the destination presents a truly extraordinary escape.

Among the most noteworthy attractions are hiring a rowing boat on the tranquil, scenic lake at El Retiro Park, or enjoying a relaxed walk around the captivating El Capricho Park or the stunning Sabatini Gardens at the Royal Palace. The metropolis boasts some of Europe’s finest vantage points for watching the sunset, including the restaurant Azotea del Círculo, which provides sweeping views from its rooftop terrace, and the gardens in Cerro del Tío Pío, ideal for an evening ramble.

Parque del Buen Retiro, Madrid

You can row a boat on the charming lake at El Retiro Park (Image: Getty Images)

However, one beloved location celebrated as the ‘best sunset spot in Madrid’ is the ancient Egyptian temple, Templo de Debod. Witnessing the sunset last year, one traveller shared on TripAdvisor: “The magic hour to visit is sunset!.. The temple’s ancient stones turn a rich orange, and the reflective pools surrounding it create a mirror effect that is a photographer’s dream.”, reports the Mirror.

For respite from urban exploration, there’s the Arab baths at Hammam Al Ándalus, offering a soothing dip and journey through time among its historical structures, or spirited flamenco performances at Corral de la Morería. Couples can savour a glass of wine and tapas at the Mercado de San Miguel, a fresh-food market, or travel via the Teleférico de Madrid, a cable car that spans the river.

Yet simply wandering the city proves sufficiently captivating, with colourful graffiti adorning its charming streets, flanked by tapas bars and coffee shops, and complemented by stunning architecture. From the iconic Plaza Mayor, Plaza de la Villa, and Puerta del Sol square, to the Royal Palace and the Prado Museum, it’s effortless to spend hours discovering this lively yet enchanting city.

Madrid, Spain

There are colourful streets and cosy resturants (Image: Getty Images)

Madrid was crowned the most romantic European city following research by Icelandair. The airline examined data from various European cities, comparing their location, nightlife, single population, inclusivity and happiness, along with Tripadvisor romance ratings and sunset visibility, with Madrid topping the list.

The list becomes even more significant, as a study by Icelandair of 3,000 individuals revealed that 1 in 10 Brits believe travel is the optimal way to meet a partner. Additionally, 1 in 5 Brits confessed to falling in love during a flight, and further research discovered that most holiday romances transpire while volunteering abroad, during a business trip, or when travelling alone.

Madrid, Spain