10 Cities That Are Better Than Paris for Romance

“Better” than Paris isn’t exactly precise. Truth be told, we’d never discount The City of Love when thinking about romance. But, in case you’re in the mood to change things up a bit, we’d like to suggest ten alternatives – some stateside, some European. 

What you’ll find here are quiet moments to savor one another’s presence – nothing more, nothing less. With fewer distractions and perhaps a misty cobblestone street or two, you’ll find that romance can blossom any ol’ time. Ready to go back to the basics and remind yourself what it’s all about?

Savannah, Georgia

Since we’re talking about romance, we’re going to start with sheer beauty. If you find yourself Stateside looking for a little more romance, spend a couple of nights with a true Southern Belle. Something as simple as a stroll down Jones Street takes on new meaning when you consider the way the ancient oak trees form a canopy overhead, dripping in Spanish moss that sways sweetly in the breeze. 

As for accommodations, the best thing to do is to book into an ancient (possibly haunted) inn like The Gastonian where you’ll be treated to a luxury experience. You can feed each other breakfast in the morning, sip on some fireside wine in the evening, and remember the way you felt after that first kiss. 

Kyoto, Japan

Up in the mountains of Japan, the residents of this beautiful city know a thing or two about slowing down and embracing healing traditions. As a couple in love looking for some alone time, there’s only one thing you need to do here. Book into an ancient ryokan (or traditional inn) and enjoy the healing waters of an onsen (or hot spring). 

In this setting, you’ll savor classic Japanese dishes, sip healing tea, and think about nothing more than the sound of the trees swaying gently in the distance as you let those healing waters come over you. During the day, as you stroll through ancient temples and shrines, you’ll find peace at every turn. And your welcoming return to your ryokan come evening light will be the proverbial cherry on top. 

Reykjavik, Iceland

We’d like to continue with the theme of the healing waters of hot springs. It’s one thing to allow those holistic waves to sweep over you alone; it can be very peaceful and restorative. But, if you have a special someone in your life, this shared experience under the stars takes on a whole new meaning. 

There are countless hidden gem springs in Reykjavik and those are the ones you want to take aim at since it’s romance we’re looking for. All the crowds at the more popular thermal spas might take something away from the experience. Consider smaller locales like Laugavallalaug Hot Spring in the East Highlands, Djúpavogskörin Thermal Baths, or Nauteyrarlaug Hot Spring & Hot Tub in the Westfjords. They may require a bit of a drive, but are well worth what’s about to come. 

Bath, England

Getting lost in a Jane Austen novel ought to do it, right? Here in Bath, you can still hunt down the healing experience we’ve been running with in our last two destinations. But, you can also pair it with the romantic history that fills the streets of Bath.

When you’re not strolling the charming streets, you can unwind together in the healing waters of the Roman Baths or the Thermae Bath Spa. When you are in town, however, be sure to enjoy a little live music and a candlelight dinner at Green Park Brasserie. They know a thing or two about setting the mood and you can enjoy the ambiance Wednesday through Saturday.