Whether it’s a honeymoon, a milestone anniversary, or just a spontaneous getaway, there’s no doubt that Italy is one of the most revered places in the world for romance. If you’re planning a trip to Italy with your beloved, here are some of the most romantic places in Italy to consider visiting - from the iconic to the lesser-known.

1. Verona & Venice

We couldn’t begin this list without a nod to the city that inspired Shakespeare to write Romeo and Juliet - Verona. Located in the region of Veneto, this storybook town is the perfect spot for scenic strolls with ancient stone bridges spanning over the calmly flowing Adige river. A visit isn’t complete without paying homage to Juliet’s statue and balcony at her house.  Read through emotional love letters sent to the star-crossed lovers from all over the world.

Make sure to make time for your own love story. Have a night out at the opera under the stars. The Verona opera festival takes place every summer from June to September, with performances in the open night air throughout the summer.

A romantic escape in the Veneto isn’t complete without stopping in Venice.  Perhaps more than any city in Italy (and perhaps the world), Venice just oozes romance.  See Venice through the eyes of one of the world’s most famous lovers, Casanova. Sip wine at Do Spade bar on Calle delle Do Spade, near the Rialto Bridge, where he met his lovers

If your heart is set on a gondola ride, avoid the bustling grand canal and opt for a ride through Campo San Barnaba and San Polo areas to find a gondola to whisk you away through the quieter back canals.

Don’t miss the classics- be sure to stop and kiss under the bridge of sighs. According to Venetian folk tales, those who kiss underneath this famous bridge will have everlasting love.

For a romantic dinner in Venice in a historical setting, look no further than Cantina Do Spade. This 600-year-old wine bar and traditional trattoria is where the famous lover Casanova is said to have once entertained the women in his life.

A lesser-known, but charming medieval town in the Veneto, Asolo is a perfect choice for an unforgettable holiday. Historical memories, beautiful scenery, medieval walled towns, Palladian villas all blend into the magic landscape surrounding Asolo.

Situated in a quiet and sought after spot of Asolo, Villa Asolina offers exceptional panoramic views. The villa is a five minute drive/20 min walk from the centre of the village. The design of the villa is a wonderful combination of a traditional taste melted with modern comfort. Asolo is part of the national circuit of Città Del Vino (Wine Cities), so be sure to share a bottle of its incredible prosecco.

2. Mantova

With only 48,000 residents, Mantova is a lesser-known destination, perfect for those yearning for an authentic and unique Italian experience.  In 2016, the city was crowned the Capital of Culture in Italy. Rustic storesfronts, hidden bookstores and iconic domes frame this regal town. Stroll by the Mincio River at sunset before returning to Piazza Sordello for a romantic aperitivo.

Located right in Piazza Sordello, the 14th century Palazzo Castiglioni boasts the best location in Mantova. Upon arrival, you are greeted at the gates of the piazza which will be opened just for you. Drive up to the palace and park your car right inside the gates in the main square.

The historic palace features luxurious suites with historic furnishings, four-poster beds with canopy and beautiful views of Mantova’s Palazzo Ducal. Located in the historic tower, the Torre Suite has impressive frescoed walls (including one of the oldest non-religious frescoes in Europe) and a spiral staircase that leads to an exclusive roof terrace where you can see the entire city and its monuments. This property is owned by the same family as Villa La Novellina. Special offers for guests who want to experience both destiations are available. Contact us for more information.

4. Centro Storico, Rome

Rome has no shortage of romantic experiences, often based around its rich history, and charming cobblestone piazzas, creating the perfect atmosphere for a sunset stroll. Straddling the Tiber river, the Ponte Sisto bridge connects the two halves and crossing it at night when the city is lit up with its soft yellow glow can be truly magical.

During daytime, Rome’s heart-shaped park, Villa Borghese provides a peaceful escape, away from the bustling city center. Shaded pathways wind throughout the park, allowing for romantic walks with plenty of opportunity to pause and take in the views. Share a tandem bike or a row boat as you float in the park’s lake. Stop at the Pincio Gardens, where a viewpoint balcony overlooks the city center for a spectacular show at sunset.

A private townhouse by the Trevi Fountain

Thanks to Fellini's Dolce Vita, the Trevi Fountain has served as a romantic backdrop for classic films like Roman Holiday. Stay just a stone’s throw away from this romantic monument at Casa Cau. Enjoy dinner at one of Rome’s romantic restaurants. Share a gelato during a nightime stroll through Campo de Fiori and Piazza Navona where you can watch talented street artists paint gorgeous pictures of Rome.  Retire in your private townhouse facing the square. We love the top floor apartment for its Turkish steamroom.

5. Lake Como

Lake Como is an ideal couples getaway with a mix of nature, charming villages and stunning views over the lake at sunset.

When it comes to romance, Lake Como has everything you could possibly need, from dreamy villas to cozy restaurants for romantic trysts, and inspiring architecture and green spaces. Perhaps nothing is more romantic than a private cruise through Lake Como at sunset.

The Villa Tatiana Apartment is a spacious and stunning luxury apartment located in a recently restored 19th-century villa. This romantic apartment is located in highly-coveted Laglio region of Lake Como, just steps meters from George Clooney’s villa. Charming shops and cozy restaurants are within walking distance.

The apartment offers breathtaking views of Lake Como from several rooms, including the living room (with one full wall of windows) and the master bedroom. Enjoy the jacuzzi overlooking the lake.

7. Positano

Positano is famous for its sweeping views of the Amalfi Coast. Undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places in Italy and indeed the world, Positano attracts all types of travelers but is most popular with couples.

Characterized by turqoise blue waters flanked by mountains, Positano is a dream destination for anyone looking to celebrate love. Spend the day at the beach followed by a couples massage at Villa Franca. As the sun begins to set, have a car take you up the hills of the city and share a romantic dinner at Ristorante Mirage, while watching the moon rise over the Amalfi Coast.

Just south of Positano, within 10-15 minutes walking distance to the center of town, this comfortable, attractive villa is built on three levels with three separate entrances for privacy.

Built on a steep incline, with 45 small stairs leading up from the road — one of the shortest climbs to any of the villas in this area — the rooms are huge and beautiful terraces on the front offer spectacular panoramic views of the rocky cliffs, seacoast villages and the Galli Islands. A swimming pool overlooks the Amalfi Coast. Across the street, 200 steps lead to one of the most beautiful bays of Positano, Arienzo beach, with umbrellas, deck chairs and a bar and restaurant.

Let us help plan your romantic getaway.

Ready to plan your romantic getaway? We can help match you with the perfect place to stay. Contact us to begin planning your Italian villa vacation today.