Europe's 8 Most Romantic Seaside Resorts

European romance is more than just swoon-worthy lunches in Tuscan villas and strolls along the Seine at night. The genuine coastal delicacies, cozy hotels, and magnificent ocean vistas of the continent's tiny seaside villages deserve a romantic stroll (ideally hand-in-hand) as any other destination.

Cinque Terre, Vernazza, Italy

Vernazza, a colorful cliffside hamlet, inhabited since before the first millennium A.D. Colorful houses in shades of coral, sky blue line a tiny port on one side. Walk down the beach with some focaccia bread or a paper cone of calamari and fries from Batti, then head to the trattoria within Hotel Gianni Franzi, just off the main plaza, to sample some authentic Ligurian cuisine.

Biarritz, France

Biarritz is one of the most swoon-worthy treasures in France, whether you're here for the sea or the glam. The town's sandy stretches are flanked with eye-popping Belle Époque houses, making them ideal for romantic strolls along the water.

Learn to surf with Hastea Surf School and spend the afternoon at the picturesque Plage Port Vieux beach, a favorite among locals. Other must-dos include a meal at La Cabane for world-class oysters on the half shell and a visit to the Planète Musée whose displays honor the Basque Country's chocolate-making history.

Ischia, Italy

Although its neighbor Capri in the Bay of Naples, Italy, usually steals the spotlight, the little island of Ischia should be noticed. Couples wishing to unwind may do so by touring wineries like the 1600s-vintage Cenatiempo or dining at the Michelin-starred Il Mosaico at the Terme Manzi Hotel & Spa, where chef Giovanni De Vivo puts a modern spin on traditional Italian dishes. Take the cable car across the causeway to Ischia Ponte and visit Castello Aragonese, a castle cut into the side of a cliff in the Middle Ages.

Oia, Santorini, Greece

Oia, the most well-known settlement on Santorini, is perched 235 feet above Ammoudi Port and is home to the island's signature blue-domed churches and whitewashed dwellings.

The cobblestone streets are perfect for Instagram, and you may find hidden gems like the gorgeous English-language boutique Atlantis Books here to while away a wet afternoon.

You may have supper in a gold-walled courtyard with waterfalls and candlelight at Karma or in a contemporary setting at Ambrosia, which has breathtaking ocean views.

Braç, Croatia

Braç, located on Croatia's Dalmatian Coast, has a far more tranquil and romantic atmosphere than neighboring Hvar, known for its yacht-filled ports and ritzy party atmosphere. Passengers may take a relaxing hour-long boat voyage from Split to Supetar, a palm tree-lined harbor with outdoor dining and plenty of terraces to sip a glass of Croatian wine as the sun goes down.

Braç's famed white stone was used to construct much of the town, located farther inland and dominated by a stunning church perched atop a square. It would be difficult to find a terrible lunch in this town, but if you're looking for al fresco dining that cascades down historic stone stairs, consider the Konoba Vinoteka, which serves grilled fish, lamb, and hog.

Kotor, Montenegro

Kotor is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a growing port of call for cruise ships, yet it feels like a world apart. Its ancient alleys of Old Town, remain car-free, and its Venetian-era fortified port looks out over a glittering bay surrounded by limestone cliffs.

San Sebastián, Spain

San Sebastián is one of the country's most spectacular beach towns because of its historic architecture, beautiful beaches, and world-famous gourmet shrines. The town is second only to Kyoto, Japan, regarding the number of Michelin stars per square meter. 3

While Arzak our favorite restaurants, we've yet to be disappointed by a basic dish of tapas or pintxos at any of the taverns along 31 de Agosto street. In the afternoon, burn off some energy by strolling through the flower-filled garden and then relax on La Concha beach as the sun sets. 4

Tallinn, Estonia

Like many other historic Eastern European cities, Tallinn has a slew of romantic opportunities; after all, how many other cities can boast their own Kissing Hill? 2

Explore the natural havens of the Danish King's Garden, the Swan Pond, and the baroque Kadriorg Park, a gift from the Russian czar Peter the Great to his wife Catherine, as you stroll along the cobblestone streets and past candlelit pubs and restaurants. 1