The most romantic cities you can cruise to

The world is replete with romantic destinations. Luckily, some of these cities can be visited alongside your significant other with one of our spectacular cruise deals. When looking for a romantic cruise, the opportunities are endless. But worry not this guide highlights some of the most romantic cities accessible by cruise with things to do in each port of call:

Shakespeare once called music the food of love. Enjoy Buenos Aires to the full by heading out for a romantic evening at Teatro Colón, which is considered one of the best concert venues in the world. Dress up in your finest and take in some stunning orchestral performances by some of the best musicians in the world. If you want to get a taste of what you and your loved one can enjoy at Teatro Colón, head on over to their website where their calendar of events can be viewed.

Buenos Aires is home to spectacular buildings steeped in history that need to be seen to be believed. Architecture, when perfected, truly has the ability to move us with its grandeur and this is certainly the case with Catedral Metropolitana. Paul from A Luxury Travel Blog names Catedral Metropolitana as one of the most romantic activities in Buenos Aires. He said, “Visit the cathedral where Pope Francis, the first Latin American Pope in history, worked when he was archbishop of Buenos Aires. The cathedral adopts many different architectural styles but has a beautiful Baroque interior. It is also home to the tomb of San Martin, Argentina’s founding father, where a military guard stands watch. The grandeur of the building is such that a visit could just give you an enhanced spiritual connection to a loved one.”

Tango is one of the most passionate dances in the world. The dance style originated in Argentina, so what better place to watch a performance than in Buenos Aires? The city comes alive at night, couple this with a passionate tango performance and the atmosphere really is magical.

20km southwest of the centre of Paris, the Palace of Versailles was once the lavish royal residence of kings and queens, including Marie Antoinette. Genevieve from The Style Sauce told us why a trip to the Palace of Versailles is one of the most romantic things to do in Paris, “Visiting the Palace of Versailles is a lovely thing for couples to do when on a cruise to Paris. It’s about an hour (via train) outside of Paris and makes for the perfect day trip. To me, what makes it so romantic is the setting, there are beautiful flowers everywhere in the gardens and the impressive fountains play classical music all day. You can also go out on the lake on a paddleboat which is perfect on a sunny day.”

When the sun is shining down on Paris there is nothing better than finding a nice relaxing spot and enjoy a delicious picnic. An ideal place to do so is Luxembourg Palace and Gardens, a grand, opulent location that was once a favourite among royals prior to the Revolution. Visit with your loved one to enjoy a traditional Parisian activity with a backdrop of beautiful views and paradisiacal surroundings.

Created in 2000 by artists Frédéric Baron and Claire Kito, the Wall of Love attracts couples every day of the week. 40 square metres long, the Wall of Love in the Jehan Rictus garden square in Montmartre was created using 612 tiles with “I love you” imprinted 311 times in 250 different languages. The wall is a wonderful spot for couples to visit during their time in Paris and is perfect for taking photographs and creating happy memories.

The backdrop of many love stories, the Trevi Fountain was built in the 1700s and is the ideal spot to enjoy with your loved one while visiting the city of Rome. Beyond enjoying the unique architecture irrevocable of Europe, you could take part in a Roman tradition by tossing a coin in the water. The fountain is situated close to a number of lovely cafes where you could enjoy a bite to eat after making a wish.

Italian gelato is world-famous. During a cruise to Rome, one must simply enjoy a pot of the city’s finest gelato. Scattered all around Rome, gelato shops are ten a penny but our favourite is called Giolitti and is conveniently located close to the historic Pantheon. Head over for a taste of the delicious treats on offer.

Rome has been famous for its opera scene for centuries. A trip to this romantic city would be incomplete without watching the opera. Rome’s most famous opera house is the Teatro dell’Opera where visitors can enjoy beautiful music and moving love stories. Ballet performances also often appear on the itinerary here, if that’s something you’d prefer. Whatever you choose, the beauty of the building and artistry on display will undoubtedly make this a romantic evening to remember.

Canals are synonymous with Venice and the views overlooking the winding waterways are truly exquisite. While on a cruise to Venice, make sure to dine at a restaurant with a picturesque view of the canals for a seriously romantic experience. Located on the Grand Canal, Club del Doge is the ideal spot for a romantic dinner - enjoy a warm atmosphere, sumptuous menu and spectacular views.

Is there anything more romantic than a gondola ride? Lauren from Justin + Lauren has spent time in Venice and believes a gondola ride is essential for the lovebirds out there: “Even though it might seem touristy, there’s nothing quite like a romantic gondola ride. You gain a whole new perspective of the city, drifting down the narrow canals. It’s wonderful to share these special moments with the person you love. When Justin and I visited Venice, we headed off on a gondola ride as the sun was setting and traditional live music played. With the music, the colourful skies and the gondola ride, it was the perfect package for romance!”

Lauren also recommended spending time exploring the city, “I suggest that you wander around Venice, including Burano and Murano, to admire the colourful buildings and walk across the canal bridges. You’ll never know what you’ll find as you take a stroll around the city; a cute cafe, narrow streets, picturesque views and interesting shops.

This sentiment is also echoed by Amy and Nathan from Two Drifters. They said, “While in Venice, all of the classic activities are super romantic: gondola ride, sipping wine at a canalside restaurant, etc. But perhaps the best thing of all for couples to do is simply wander around hand in hand getting lost. Some destinations have such mythology of romance surrounding them, and that is exactly what Venice offers. Yet it's not just a myth or a fairy tale; this is a place that is so unique it will truly take your breath away.”