Tuesday, August 2, 2011

Top 10 cities to fall in love

10. Edinburgh

 

When thinking about romantic cities, Edinburgh might not spring to mind. This is a shame since the Scottish capital has much to offer for couples. The centre of the city can be quite hectic (especially during the summer). So after enjoying lunch in one of the many restaurants in Old Town, head out to Leith. Here you can take a soothing stroll along the Water of Leith, a small river that meanders through the city. End this romantic walk (and day) by sitting down for a drink in an authentic pub at the port.

 

9. Prague

 

A culturally rich city that has recently also been discovered by lovers, Prague is one of the most interesting Eastern European cities. There is even a small look-a-like of the Eiffel Tower: the Petřín Lookout Tower. During the daytime this is an ordinary, 60m high lookout tower. But come back at night and witness the beautiful red and blue lights that decorate the tower. Climb to the top and experience the most breathtaking sight of the city imaginable. Once you are up there with your loved one, you will understand why Prague is one of the most romantic cities in the world.

 

What could be more perfect than spending a weekend in Prague with the most important person in your life? Treat yourself to a romantic getaway at Hotel Savic in Prague, the perfect base to explore this magnificent city.

 

http://www.ghotw.com/hotel/home/savic-hotel.htm

 

8. Vienna

 

Start your perfect romantic weekend in Vienna by enjoying a piece of traditional Sachertorte. This typical Austrian treat is the epitome of chocolate indulgence. Resume your day by walking around in the Belvedere Museum. Be sure to find the most famous work of Viennese artist Gustav Klimt: The Kiss. This is one of the most striking paintings in the world dedicated to love, portraying a couple sharing a kiss. Finish the day by visiting the Schmetterlinghaus. This is an indoor tropical garden where hundreds of butterflies flutter around you while you walk through this magical place.

 

7. Stockholm

 

In 1750, King Adolf Frederik ordered an Asian themed palace to be built for Queen Lovisa Ulrika. Of course you won't be able to build a palace for your true love, but you can do the second best thing: plan a surprise trip to Stockholm and visit the Chinese Pavilion with your loved one. Another great option is Monteliusvägen. This scenic walking path offers the best views of all the popular attractions in Stockholm. For those looking to take their relationship to the next level: Monteliusvägen is considered to be one of the best places in the world to propose.

 

6. Verona

 

There are only 3 words needed to point out why Verona is one of the most romantic cities in the world: Romeo and Juliet. Indeed, this semi sized Italian city is the background for the most famous love story of all time. But even if you are not charmed by Shakespeare's work, Verona has enough romantic features to justify its position in this list. There are a lot less tourists than in the larger Italian cities. So enjoy the calm atmosphere while you discover the beautiful Renaissance buildings together.

 

5. Lisbon

 

Discover beautiful Lisbon by taking a scenic ride on one of the many tram lines. This is the most charming mode of transportation in the city. Hop off the tram once you are on top of one of the hills. Here you will have a perfect sight of the city. Ask one of the locals to take a picture of you and your partner to make sure you will never forget your trip to Lisbon. Afterwards go out for dinner in a seafood restaurant, you will be pleasantly surprised by the loving way in which the chefs prepare their food.

 

Stay in the luxurious Dom Pedro Palace and enjoy the hotel's great location, just 5 minutes from downtown Lisbon.

 

http://www.ghotw.com/hotel/home/dom-pedro.htm

 

4. San Francisco

 

San Francisco is known as being the most liberal city in the USA and perhaps in the world. Everyone is welcome in the City by the Bay, especially lovers. So take your loved one for a special vacation in this unique city. Book a cruise on a luxurious catamaran and sail under the Golden Gate Bridge and around Alcatraz. Afterwards go walk around the beautiful harbours in Fishermans Wharf. Or if you prefer to go a bit outside the city: visit Napa Valley, renowned for its excellent wineries.  The vineyards provide the perfect scenery for a romantic walk. You can also learn more about the production of wine and of course taste the local wines while having a candlelight dinner.

 

3. Bruges

 

Bruges is known as the Venice of the North because of all the canals scattered throughout the city. There is something mesmerizing about taking a boat trip for 2 through the city. You can see all the beautiful architecture and bridges. Meanwhile enjoy some chocolate dipped strawberries (a local speciality) with a glass of champagne. Unfortunately, Bruges is also notorious for its unpredictable weather. So if the rain doesn't allow you to go for a boat ride, head towards the market. The market square is literally packed with small, cosy cafes. Sit down and enjoy a hot chocolate while you watch the rain drops roll by on the window. This is the perfect occasion for a good conversation to get to know your partner even better.

 

2. Venice

 

Of course we couldn't leave out the original Venice in this list. What could be more romantic than taking a gondola ride through the Venetian canals while the gondolier sings a traditional Italian love serenade? Or perhaps you prefer going to San Marco square, where you can relax with a nice espresso. If you want to experience a romantic night out, be sure to stop by Harry's bar. This is the birthplace of the Bellini cocktail and they still make the best Bellini's in the world.

 

1. Paris

 

It might be a cliché, but we firmly believe that Paris still is the most romantic city in the world. For a perfect romantic day, first go to Pont-Marie (nicknamed "the bridge of lovers") and wish for eternal love. Legend has it that your wish will come true. Afterwards climb the Eiffel Tower and share a kiss on top of the most famous monument in the world. Continue your special day by going to the "mur de je t'aime", this is a wall that has "I love you" inscribed in 311 languages. Finish of your romantic day by going to one of the many Michelin starred restaurants for a long dinner under the star filled sky. After this passionate day, you will understand why Paris is the one and only "City of Love".

 

About the Author

Kristel van Winkel

 

Marketing Intern

 

Great Hotels of the World

 

 

Note to editors:

 

Great Hotels of the World

 

Great Hotels of the World (http://www.ghotw.com) provides global hotel reservation, sales and marketing services for an exclusive portfolio of primarily independent hotels and resorts worldwide. Great Hotels of the World provides a range of products, services and innovative technology solutions for over 250 hotels worldwide through trade shows, e-marketing, business travel sales, meeting and incentive sales, public relations, Meeting Forums and a private label GDS chain code (GW).

 

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