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By David del Valle
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For centuries, Europe has been the great stage for love. Between bridges, alleyways and waterfront promenades, the continent has turned its cities into settings where romanticism is part of the landscape. These 10 European spots are a memorable experience in which to celebrate Valentine’s Day on 14 February.
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1. Montmartre and the Wall of Love, Paris (France)
Paris is, par excellence, the city of love; the ideal setting in which to declare your love and say I love you. The best example is the Wall of Love, in Place des Abbesses, in Montmartre, one of the most bohemian and romantic Parisian neighbourhoods, where “I love you” appears in more than 300 languages and dialects from all over the world.
2. The Bridge of Sighs, Venice (Italy)
For romance, Venice, despite mass tourism. The legend of the Bridge of Sighs has given rise to one of Europe’s best-known romantic traditions: kissing under it at sunset guarantees eternal love. In a city where every corner looks like a postcard, this place concentrates all the poetry of Venice.
3. El Callejón del Beso, Seville (Spain)
From romantic love to hidden love. In the heart of the Santa Cruz district, this narrow passageway symbolises secret love. Two balconies almost touch, giving rise to the legend of a couple kissing each other from either side, evading prying eyes. Today it is one of the most romantic corners of Seville, especially at dusk, when silence and warm light envelop the scene.
4. Charles Bridge, Prague (Czech Republic)
Crossing the Vltava over the Charles Bridge at dawn or dusk is a deeply romantic experience. Tradition has it that a kiss here brings luck and fidelity to the couple. Surrounded by Baroque sculptures and overlooking Prague Castle, it is one of the most evocative settings in Central Europe.
5. Hohenzollern Bridge, Cologne (Germany)
This bridge over the Rhine has become a modern shrine to love. Thousands of padlocks placed by couples symbolise promises of eternity. With the imposing Cologne Cathedral in the background, the contrast between iron, river and history creates an ideal setting for celebrating Valentine’s Day.
6. Tivoli Gardens, Copenhagen (Denmark)
More than a street, Tivoli is a historic park where romance is experienced among lights, lakes and fairytale architecture. Open since the 19th century, it is still one of the favourite places for Danish couples. In winter or spring, it proves that love knows no season.
7. Dubrovnik City Wall (Croatia)
A walk along Dubrovnik’s medieval city walls is a unique experience. With the Adriatic on one side and the historic city on the other, the walk becomes especially romantic at sunset, when the golden light transforms the stone into an unforgettable setting for lovers.
8. The Chain Bridge, Budapest (Hungary)
It is the great symbol that links Buda and Pest as a perfect metaphor for the shared love that unites two worlds. Illuminated at night and with the Danube at its feet, kissing here on Valentine’s Day is a true ode to love.
9. St Gregory’s, Ljubljana (Slovenia)
In Slovenia, love has a date of its own. Traditionally celebrated in March, St Gregory’s Day marks the awakening of love after winter, but increasingly Valentine’s Day is being celebrated on 14 February. In Ljubljana, the Trnovo River and its surroundings are associated with ancient romantic customs, making this enclave a symbol of new beginnings and shared promises.
10. Juliet’s House, Verona (Italy)
Verona, the city of tragic love par excellence, synonymous with eternal love, could not be missing from this list. The balcony of Juliet’s House, immortalised by Shakespeare, attracts lovers from all over the world. Although the story of Romeo and Juliet is tragic, the place has become a symbol of romantic hope, where leaving messages, touching Juliet’s statue or sealing a kiss is part of the ritual.
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