20 Romantic Alternatives to Europe’s Most Crowded Getaways

Over the last couple years, some of Europe’s popular destinations have become near impossible to enjoy, due to the crowds they attract.

For couples planning a romantic Valentine’s Day getaway, but wanting to stay away from saturated areas, Nomad uncovered the most popular Valentine’s Day getaways and paired them with similar alternative ‘dupe destinations’ that promise to be just as romantic while offering a more intimate escape for couples.

Here are the most popular Valentines destinations, and their dupes.

1. Colmar instead of Paris, France

Paris may be the ultimate Valentine’s Day getaway, but Colmar– a town in northeastern France that looks straight out of a fairy tale– is a perfect, if not better, option. With its romantic canals, half-timbered houses, and cobblestone streets, Colmar exudes charm reminiscent of Parisian romance, only on a smaller scale. Couples can explore the dreamy “Little Venice,” enjoy a cozy wine tasting, and admire the town’s architecture.

2. Verona instead of Rome, Italy

Rome is a classic romantic destination, but Verona, renowned as the setting of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, is an equally charming alternative. With its rich history and intimate atmosphere, Verona is perfect for couples. Visit Juliet’s Balcony, take a stroll through the Piazza delle Erbe, and marvel at the Arena di Verona, a beautifully preserved Roman amphitheater that still hosts performances.

3. Chioggia instead of Venice, Italy

Venice is one of the most romantic countries in Europe but it is also one of the most saturated with tourists. Chioggia, nicknamed “Little Venice,” offers a quieter and equally captivating experience. This charming town features its own canals and colorful facades but with fewer crowds. Couples can enjoy fresh seafood at the local fish market, take a peaceful gondola ride, and savor the relaxed pace of this hidden gem.

4. Sitges instead of Barcelona, Spain

Sitges, a seaside town just a short distance away from Barcelona, offers a similar atmosphere to the city but without its overcrowded streets. Sitges is known for its sandy beaches, whitewashed buildings, and artistic vibe. Couples can walk along the palm-lined seafront, visit the iconic Church of Sant Bartomeu, and enjoy a candlelit dinner overlooking the sea.

5. Utrecht instead of Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam is a popular romantic destination, but Utrecht, with its canals and medieval feel, is a great alternative for those looking for a more peaceful getaway. Known for its unique wharf cellars turned cafés, Utrecht shares Amsterdam’s picturesque waterways but with a cozier feel. Couples can take a canal-side walk, enjoy a boat ride, and explore the historic Dom Tower for breathtaking views of the city.

6. Český Krumlov instead of Prague, Czech Republic

Exuding romantic charm with its fairy-tale setting and medieval allure, Český Krumlov is the perfect alternative to Prague. It is located in the South Bohemian Region of the Czech Republic along the Vltava River. Like Prague, it has a beautifully preserved Old Town classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site, with cobblestone streets adorned with Baroque and Renaissance architecture. The city offers couples a fair share of romantic experiences including watching the sunset at the Cloak Bridge and riverside dining.

7. Graz instead of Vienna, Austria

Graz, in Austria, is just a two hours and a half train journey South of Vienna. Graz boasts a romantic atmosphere similar to the capital, with Baroque and Renaissance architecture. The city's famed music scene adds to its romance, and couples can enjoy experiences such as candlelit concerts in opulent venues where Mozart and Strauss once performed. A stroll along the Ringstrasse and through the beautiful alleys of the historic Old Town offer the same romantic charm as Vienna, only with less crowds.

8. Szeged instead of Budapest, Hungary

For couples looking for the romantic vibes that Budapest has to offer, Szeged is the ideal alternative. This charming city exudes a more serene, small-town romance with its tree-lined boulevards, art nouveau architecture, and quaint riverside promenades. Couples can wander through the verdant Széchenyi Square, dotted with fountains and sculptures, or enjoy a candlelit dinner in one of the city’s elegant cafés.

9. Lucca instead of Florence, Italy

Known as the "City of a Hundred Churches," Lucca's skyline is dotted with elegant bell towers that chime softly, creating a timeless, almost poetic atmosphere. Much like Florence, Lucca is steeped in Renaissance tradition and offers visitors a glimpse into Italy's golden age of art and architecture. Couples can visit the Torre Guinigi, watch the sunset in Piazza dell'Anfiteatro, which was once a Roman amphitheater, and have dinner in a cozy trattoria.

10. Évora instead of Lisbon, Portugal

If you like the romantic essence of Lisbon but want to avoid its busy streets, try Évora– a city in the heart of the Alentejo region in Portugal. Its cobbled streets, ancient stone walls, and the gentle rhythm of the city create a dreamlike atmosphere that resembles Lisbon’s. Couples can watch the sunset at the Roman temple, enjoy a wine tasting tour and savor local delicacies like "açorda" or "porco preto."

11. Stirling instead of Edinburgh, Scotland

Located in central Scotland between the Highlands and the Lowlands, Stirling is a quieter and more intimate alternative to Edinburgh that offers the same historical charm steeped in tales of bravery and romance. Couples can explore its cobblestone streets and historic cityscape dominated by the majestic Stirling Castle, perched atop a volcanic crag while taking in the stunning views of the countryside.

12. Aarhus instead of Copenhagen, Denmark

If you’re looking for a smaller, more intimate counterpart to Copenhagen, visit Aarhus in Denmark. The city is located along the Jutland Peninsula and like Copenhagen, it blends old-world charm with contemporary elegance and is known for its waterfront beauty and colorful facades. Couples can enjoy a quiet evening watching the sunset at Aarhus Ø and savor a romantic dinner at a waterfront restaurant or a Michelin-starred spot.

13. Gothenburg instead of Stockholm, Sweden

Stockholm is often seen as the ideal romantic spot in Sweden, but Gothenburg offers a charming alternative for couples. Known for its cozy atmosphere and beautiful waterfront, Gothenburg shares Stockholm’s Nordic beauty but at a slower pace. Couples can stroll through the quaint streets of Haga, take a romantic boat ride in the archipelago, and indulge in some of the city’s finest dining.

14. Trogir instead of Dubrovnik, Croatia

Dubrovnik is a top romantic destination in Croatia, but Trogir, a small medieval town on the Dalmatian Coast, is a great option for a similar destination. With its historic architecture and harbor, Trogir echoes Dubrovnik’s allure but without the crowds. Couples can explore the Kamerlengo Fortress, wander hand-in-hand along the waterfront promenade, and enjoy a romantic dinner at a seaside restaurant.

15. Folegandros instead of Santorini, Greece

Santorini’s beauty attracts many couples, but Folegandros, a lesser-known Greek island, is a perfect dupe destination. With its whitewashed buildings, breathtaking cliffs, and tranquil vibe, Folegandros offers a similarly romantic escape. Couples can watch the sunset from the cliffside church of Panagia, relax on secluded beaches, and wander through the quaint streets of Chora.

16. Ghent instead of Bruges, Belgium

Bruges is known for its storybook charm, but Ghent is a breathtaking city that offers a romantic yet less touristy alternative in Belgium. With its canals, medieval buildings, and vibrant culture, Ghent has much in common with Bruges. Couples can enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the canals, visit the stunning Gravensteen Castle, and share a cozy meal in one of the city’s candlelit restaurants.

17. Innsbruck instead of Salzburg, Austria

While Salzburg is famed for its romantic appeal, Innsbruck, located in the Austrian Alps, is a the next best thing. Both cities offer rich history and scenic beauty, but Innsbruck adds an alpine twist. Couples can explore the Old Town, marvel at the Golden Roof, and enjoy a cozy evening in a mountain-view chalet.

18. Wrocław instead of Kraków, Poland

Kraków might often be Poland’s go-to romantic city, but it has nothing on Wrocław, a vibrant city just 3 hours away. Known as the “City of 100 Bridges,” Wrocław combines historic beauty with a lively atmosphere. Couples can explore the colorful Market Square, enjoy a serene stroll along the Oder River, and search for the city’s whimsical gnome statues.

19. Antibes instead of Nice, France

Nice is a quintessential French Riviera getaway, but Antibes is a similar and quieter option that will likely win you over with its old-world charm and sunny coastline. Like Nice, Antibes has beautiful beaches and a Mediterranean feel. Couples can explore the historic Old Town, admire yachts in the Port Vauban, and enjoy a sunset walk along the Cap d’Antibes coastal trail.

20. Toledo instead of Madrid, Spain

Madrid may be Spain’s bustling heart, but Toledo, with its historic and hilltop setting, makes for a lovely romantic dupe. With its medieval architecture and breathtaking views, Toledo feels like a destination pulled straight from the pages of a timeless love story. Couples can explore the winding streets of the Old Town, visit the Alcázar, and enjoy a panoramic view of the city at sunset from Mirador del Valle.

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With a Nomad eSIM, you can enjoy reliable data without the hassle of physical SIM cards, making it easy to find family-friendly restaurants, get directions to attractions, and keep everyone connected on the go. This convenience adds to the ease and enjoyment of your travels.

Methodology

This study was conducted using desk research, supported by Nomad’s internal data, to identify Europe’s most popular Valentine’s Day destinations based on their cultural significance, romantic appeal, and popularity with travelers. Alternative "dupe destinations" were then selected by comparing similar characteristics while using Nomad’s insights to highlight locations that are less crowded and more intimate.