These are the most romantic places in Italy, according to Travel + Leisure magazine.

“Romantic” is a subjective term. A hike in the mountains, with cold nights spent in a two-person tent, might be ideal for some, but it turns out to be a nightmare trip for others, just to give an example. However, according to Travel + Leisure, Italy, thanks to its millenary history, good food, fine wines and the concept of “dolce vita” should make everyone agree.

Here is their selection of what can be considered as the “most romantic places in Italy”.

Timeless Rome

There is no romance without Rome, and the Eternal City is at the top of the list of the most romantic destinations in Italy, according to Americans. Sure, it’s crowded and often chaotic, and admiring top attractions, such as the Colosseum and St. Peter’s Basilica, can seem like a mirage during peak season.

Yet, an evening walk to the best viewpoints, such as the top of the Spanish Steps, the terrace of the Campidoglio, or the fountain of Acqua Paola, is enough to remind you that you are in the presence of a truly romantic and unique city.

The most romantic place in Rome has to be the Trevi Fountain. Nestled in the heart of the city, this stunning Baroque masterpiece is more than just an architectural marvel—it’s a symbol of love and dreams. By day, the fountain gleams under the Roman sun, its cascading waters providing a soothing backdrop for couples. At night, it’s bathed in a soft, ethereal glow, turning it into a magical setting perfect for a romantic rendezvous. Tradition holds that tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain ensures a return trip to Rome, while throwing two coins promises love and romance. Couples often linger, hand-in-hand, making wishes and capturing timeless memories. The surrounding cobblestone streets, charming cafes, and historic ambiance make the Trevi Fountain not just a must-see, but the quintessential romantic spot in Rome.

Venice A Romantic Wonderland

If the overwhelming beauty of Venice doesn’t make your heartbeat one bit, then according to Travel + Leisure, you may be “dead inside”.

What remains besides the crowds, the tourist tax and the overpriced restaurants? It is the most incredible place on Earth, where history oozes from the water-soaked bricks and stones and flows along the canals that have stood for over 500 years and in the presence of a picturesque labyrinth of tiny alleys.

Gliding through the serene canals of Venice on a gondola, enveloped in the soft glow of twilight, is the epitome of romance. The gentle lapping of the water against the sides of the boat, combined with the melodic strains of a gondolier’s serenade, creates a symphony of tranquillity and passion.

As you drift beneath ancient stone bridges and past grand palazzos, the intimacy of the gondola allows for whispered confessions and stolen glances, making every moment feel timeless. The reflections of the city lights dance on the water’s surface, mirroring the spark in your lover’s eyes, turning a simple ride into an unforgettable, magical experience that proves love can be found in the most enchanting of settings.

Assisi, the homeland of St. Francis

Home to St. Francis, the Order of the Poor Clares and a pilgrimage destination for the faithful, Assisi may not seem so romantic. Yet it cannot help but fascinate a splendid, historic and somewhat mysterious Umbrian hill town.

The narrow streets, vaulted alleys and stone stairways largely follow Roman origins, and the ancient stones appear even more beautiful and enigmatic at night when the lights of the streetlamps twinkle and the busloads of tourists are gone.

Assisi, nestled in the heart of Italy’s Umbria region, exudes a timeless romance that captivates every visitor. The charming medieval streets, adorned with vibrant flower boxes and winding up to the majestic Basilica of St. Francis, create an enchanting backdrop for lovers.

The gentle hills surrounding the town, bathed in golden light at sunset, offer breathtaking views that inspire whispered promises and heartfelt moments. Hand in hand, couples can explore ancient stone alleyways, dine in intimate trattorias, and absorb the serene ambience that seems to echo centuries of love and devotion. Assisi is not just a destination; it’s a romantic journey through history and beauty.

Lecce, the Florence of the South

The “Florence of the South,” in the deep heel of Italy, resembles a “newly discovered secret.” The richly ornate Baroque buildings are made of honey-coloured local stone, and squares are lined with trattorias and bars perfect for long lunches and morning aperitifs.

The beautiful beaches of Salento are nearby, the Apulian wine is of the highest quality and the land cuisine is among the most popular in the country.

Lecce exudes a unique romantic charm that captivates the hearts of all who visit. The city’s stunning Baroque architecture, intricately carved facades, and golden sandstone buildings provide a mesmerising backdrop for a romantic stroll.

Wandering through its narrow streets, you’ll discover hidden courtyards, quaint cafes, and artisanal shops that add to its enchanting ambience. As the sun sets, the warm glow of the streetlights casts a magical spell over Lecce, making it the perfect setting for intimate dinners and quiet conversations. The blend of history, culture, and timeless beauty makes Lecce a truly romantic destination.

The beautiful Giglio Island

Americans are thrilled by the Island of Giglio, almost a rock the size of a postage stamp in the Tuscan Archipelago, about an hour by ferry from the mainland. It is a paradise for swimming and snorkelling in a crystal-clear sea, e-biking up to the hilltop castle and, in the evening, strolling along the small promenade of Giglio Porto, the main town.

L’Isola del Giglio, with its crystal-clear waters and quaint Mediterranean charm, is an idyllic setting for romance. Nestled off the coast of Tuscany, this enchanting island offers a serene escape with stunning coastal views, lush landscapes, and intimate coves perfect for private moments.

Strolling hand in hand through the narrow streets of Giglio Castello, with its historic stone houses and flower-filled balconies, feels like stepping back in time. As the sun sets, the island transforms into a magical haven where the sound of the waves and the soft glow of the evening lights create an unforgettable romantic ambience.

Dining on fresh seafood at a seaside restaurant, with the gentle sea breeze and the breathtaking panorama of the Tyrrhenian Sea, makes L’Isola del Giglio a truly enchanting destination for lovers.

Ortisei, the paradise of Val Gardena

Ortisei, a mountain paradise in Val Gardena in the heart of the Dolomites, is the perfect place for romance.

The pedestrian centre is teeming with cozy shops, restaurants, and pastel-painted churches. A panoramic cable car takes you in a few minutes to pleasant places, even to the Alpe di Siusi, an alpine meadow for which the word “bucolic” was certainly created.

Ortisei in Val Gardena transforms into a winter wonderland that simultaneously exudes romance. Nestled in the heart of the Dolomites, this charming alpine village is blanketed in pristine snow, creating a picturesque setting perfect for couples.

Imagine cozying up by a crackling fire in a quaint mountain lodge after a day of skiing or snowboarding on the world-renowned slopes. Strolling hand in hand through the snow-covered streets, with twinkling lights illuminating the historic buildings and festive market stalls, feels like a scene from a fairy tale.

The serene beauty of the surrounding mountains, coupled with the warm, welcoming atmosphere of Ortisei, makes it an idyllic destination for a romantic winter escape. Whether you’re enjoying a candlelit dinner with views of the snow-capped peaks or taking a leisurely horse-drawn sleigh ride through the valley, Ortisei in Val Gardena offers an unforgettable romantic experience.

Fall in love with Lake Como

How can we not mention Lake Como? According to the American magazine, couples in love should treat themselves to a boat ride on a vintage Riva boat, complete with a picnic and prosecco. In the evening, the shore of the lake sparkles with light, reflected on the surface of the water, and is the most beautiful image imaginable.

This enchanting lake offers breathtaking vistas of crystal-clear waters surrounded by lush, green mountains. The quaint villages that dot the shoreline, such as Bellagio, Varenna, and Tremezzo, each have their own unique allure, with cobblestone streets, charming cafes, and historic villas.

Imagine taking a leisurely boat ride across the lake, with the gentle breeze and the stunning landscape providing the perfect backdrop for intimate moments. Dining al fresco at a lakeside restaurant, watching the sunset paint the sky in hues of pink and gold, creates an unforgettable romantic experience.

Matera, the epic City of Sassi

Matera is thousands of years older than any other place in Italy, and the striking rock dwellings carved into the rock, stacked on top of each other, form a veritable labyrinth where history is tangible and romance is undeniable.

Matera, with its mystical allure and cinematic charm, is a city that whispers romance at every corner. Perched on the edge of a ravine in southern Italy, Matera’s ancient stone dwellings, known as “sassi,” create a breathtaking backdrop reminiscent of a bygone era.

Walking through the labyrinthine streets, illuminated by the soft glow of lanterns, feels like stepping into a timeless love story. The city’s unique architecture, carved directly into the limestone, adds to its enchanting ambiance, making it a perfect setting for intimate moments.

Matera’s mesmerizing beauty has captured the hearts of filmmakers and visitors alike, offering panoramic views of the rugged landscape that inspire awe and affection. Whether you’re sharing a quiet dinner in a cave-turned-restaurant or watching the sunset from one of its historic terraces, Matera’s spellbinding atmosphere makes it an unforgettable romantic destination.

Val d’Orcia, the “archetypal Tuscany”

In a region known for rolling green landscapes, romantic hilltop towns, and exceptional cuisine, the Val d’Orcia is the “archetypal Tuscany.”

It boasts ancient towns, endless rows of vines and groves of olive trees, wheat and sunflower fields, and, of course, the region’s renowned wines: Montepulciano, Montalcino, and Pienza.

Strolling through the Tuscan Hills of Val D’Orcia is like stepping into a postcard of rustic romance. The undulating landscape, dotted with cypress trees, rolling vineyards, and golden fields, creates a serene and picturesque backdrop that feels timeless.

The scent of lavender and rosemary fills the air, adding to the sensory delight. The quaint medieval villages, with their cobblestone streets and charming piazzas, invite exploration and quiet moments together. Pausing to admire the panoramic vistas from a hilltop or sharing a picnic amid the vineyards, every moment in Val D’Orcia feels like a scene from a romantic film. The gentle pace of life and the region’s natural beauty and rich history make strolling through the Tuscan Hills an enchanting experience that captures the heart and soul.

The Amalfi Coast, a guarantee

There’s a reason why many tourists want to head to the Amalfi Coast for their wedding or honeymoon: it’s simply breathtaking once you forget about the crowds.

The Amalfi Coast exudes an undeniable romantic charm that enchants every visitor. With its dramatic cliffs, colourful villages perched above the azure Mediterranean Sea, and fragrant lemon groves, the coastline offers a breathtakingly beautiful backdrop for romance.

Strolling through the charming streets of Positano, dining al fresco with panoramic sea views, or taking a scenic boat ride along the coast’s crystal-clear waters, every moment feels like a fairy tale. The Amalfi Coast’s magical ambience, with its blend of natural beauty and timeless elegance, makes it a perfect setting for unforgettable romantic experiences.