There’s no doubt summer is here and it is set to stay for a while yet and it is the perfect time to take your beau for a romantic short break in Europe. From the cobbled alleys of Edinburgh to the sun-drenched beaches of Dubrovnik, here are our top seven places for a trip away with the one you love.

Guernsey, Channel Islands

The Channel Island of Guernsey is tucked away just off the north coast of France and is one of the English Channel’s rare gems. Offering dramatic cliffs and stunning coastal panoramas, it is the perfect backdrop for a rugged romantic getaway for two.

Couples can travel to Guernsey from the UK via ferry to experience everything the island has to offer. Guernsey plays host to a wealth of luxurious hotels, all set in a gorgeous landscape steeped in history and culture. Or, if you want to get back to nature, visit the island’s only eco-conscious sustainable campsite, WildGuernsey.

Image courtesy of Condor Ferries

Visitors can take a moonlit stroll along one of Guernsey’s 27 beaches, or enjoy a candlelit dinner of fresh, locally-caught seafood in one of the island’s many bars and restaurants. For an intimate coastal break off the beaten track, head to Guernsey.

Image courtesy of Condor Ferries

Barcelona, Spain

Easily one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, the cultural capital of Spain is an ideal setting for a long, loved-up weekend away. Set on the country’s west coast with exquisite views of the Balearic Sea, Barcelona offers quaint backstreets, wide open plazas, and a wealth of cafes and restaurants on almost every corner, all within easy reach of the beach!

Be treated like royalty in the city’s El Palace hotel, a historic building dating back to 1850. And it’s only a short walk away from the iconic Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar, a stunning church rich in history and architectural delights.

Finally, end your day with some tabbouleh and tapas in Barcelona’s Casa Xica restaurant. Cosy and intimate, it’s the perfect venue to whisper sweet nothings to your love after a long day experiencing all that Barcelona has to offer.

Bath, UK

For something a little closer to home, lovebirds should head to the historic city of Bath. In the valleys of the south-west of England, Bath is home to a variety of delights for couples to enjoy amidst many fine examples of Georgian architecture built in the local honey-hued Bath stone.

Visit the famous ancient Roman Baths for some splendid local history, then head to Sally Lunn’s for a taste of her renowned buns and some high tea. During the day, couples can walk around the iconic Pulteney Bridge, a popular set location for many films, including most recently, Les Miserables.

And as night falls, why not relax in the opulent surroundings of Thermae Bath Spa? It’s the city’s award-winning natural thermal spa which offers a range of treatments and stunning views over the city.

Paris, France

No list of romantic mini-breaks would be complete without mentioning the city of love, Paris. The setting of many proposals, France’s capital city has everything a loved-up couple would desire. In August many Parisians go on holiday, so the city is quieter than you might expect.

Wake up in the sumptuous surroundings of a luxury boutique B&B and eat breakfast on a balcony above one of the city’s many arrondissements. Admire the view from the Sacré-Cœur in the bohemian Montmartre district. Stroll arm-in-arm along the scenic Avenue des Champs-Élysées towards the spectacular Arc de Triomphe, and dine in one of the many high-quality cafes and restaurants that the city is renowned for.

Of course, one can’t visit Paris and not take a moment to see that iconic architectural wonder, the Eiffel Tower. With 360° of the city, the tower — indeed, Paris itself — is a stunning cinematic backdrop for a declaration of your love.

Edinburgh, UK

For quaint charm mixed with breathtaking city vistas, book yourself a long weekend away in the jewel in Scotland’s crown, Edinburgh. Known by locals as Auld Reekie, the city has plenty of hidden alleys, cosy pubs, and captivating parks for couples to lose themselves in.

Image courtesy of Pexels

To experience the city in style and comfort, treat yourself to a room at the palatial Balmoral. Featuring exquisite interior decor throughout, you’ll struggle to pull yourself away from the luxurious surroundings. But leave you must to experience Edinburgh’s Princes Street Gardens, an Enlightenment-era park and garden that plays host to a range of events including (of course), the world-famous Fringe Festival. There’s so much to this beautiful city that it needs to be seen to be believed.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Situated on Croatia’s magnificent coastline, the city of Dubrovnik is a heady blend of breathtaking scenery, picturesque architecture, and a complex history. Couples will be blown away by the sheer beauty of the city’s Old Town.

For a stylish but intimate place to stay, head to the lovely St. Joseph’s, a lovingly-restored 16th-century hotel set in the heart of the Old Town. It’s only a stone’s throw away from the sparkling Adriatic Sea and surrounded by some of the city’s finest eateries, including the renowned Proto. This quaint little restaurant offers a range of delicious local dishes in a romantic, tranquil setting. If you want to get away for a romantic summer short break, Dubrovnik is an idyllic choice.

Florence, Italy

Tuscany is one of Italy’s most picturesque regions, and nowhere is it more evident than in and around its capital, Florence. Once the centre of Italy’s medieval bustling trade, it is also the home of the Renaissance. It’s perfect for a late summer break when the weather is that little bit cooler.

This rich cultural history, combined with incredible Mediterranean scenery and exquisite architecture, makes it an idyllic destination for your next couples mini-break. Why not stay at the aptly-named Grand Amore hotel, a luxury boutique hotel set in the city’s centre?

And for a romantic candlelit dinner for two, head to Alle Murate, a basement restaurant that offers an intimate ambience where couples can enjoy traditional Tuscan dishes over a selection of regional wines. If Paris is the city of love, then Florence is truly a very close second.

Show your loved one how much you care this summer. The seven places above are perfect for any enamoured couple to spend some quality time together, enjoying each other’s company in stunning surroundings…