The most romantic cities in Europe: 13 getaways for couples 

With elegant 17th and 18th-century buildings lining the River Vltava, exploring Prague is like stepping onto a romantic film set. Prague Castle delivers breathtaking views of red roofs and church spires while in Vyšehrad Castle, poets are buried with their works engraved on their tombstones. Look out for the picturesque houses of Golden Lane and the mechanical wonder that is Old Town Square's astronomical clock. Finish your romantic Prague getaway by enjoying a show at the National Theatre.

Gentle strolls through charming boulevards during the day and across bridges twinkling with lights at night ensure romance is in the air in Budapest. Split your Budapest break between tranquil Buda on one side of the Danube with its thermal baths and Buda Castle, and the more vibrant Pest, rich in world-class museums and vibrant street art, on the other side. Add romance to your Buda Castle visit by riding the vintage funicular to it.

Venice is made for couples and the best way to experience it is by strolling around, venturing down tiny alleys and across bridges - everyone should get lost with their lover in Venice. Take a boat trip to Murano, its unique glassware is perfect for souvenirs, or the quaint fishing island of Burano with its colourful houses. If you do want to visit some historic attractions such as St Mark's Basilica, book in advance to avoid the queues.

With its history, architecture, shopping and nightlife, London is not short on romance. Surprise your partner with a private champagne tasting pod on the lastminute.com London Eye. With so many tall buildings in London, cocktails have gone skywards. Enjoy drinks with a sunset view from The Shard or the Sky Garden. Then, finish your trip to London with a romantic opera or ballet at the beautiful Royal Opera House.

Canals are at the heart of Amsterdam's charm. Hopping on and off water taxis is a great way to visit major attractions such as the Rijksmuseum and Anne Frank House while taking a sunset cruise for two adds a touch of romance. Away from the canals, Amsterdam's cobbled streets are perfect for exploring. Stop off at the Bloemenmarkt, a floating flower market, to pick up a dozen red roses to really sweep your partner off their feet!

Avoid the intense summer heat by visiting Seville for a romantic Valentine's Day getaway. You can still enjoy sherry and tapas on jasmine-scented terraces. At Seville's heart is a maze of narrow streets perfect for exploring together while the Royal Alcázar transports you back in time to the city's colourful Moorish past. Enjoy quiet time together in the hot pools of the Aire de Sevilla before visiting the ornate 16th-century Casa de Pilatos.

With streets of colourful houses tumbling down towards the Douro, Porto is one of Portugal’s most romantic spots. Enjoy the cool interiors of port wine cellars such as Graham's Port Lodge or Caves Calém. See how Porto's iconic drink is crafted while enjoying a sip or two along the way. Take in city sights on a tram ride that starts in the Ribeira district and ends at ocean-side Foz before getting a taste of Harry Potter in Livraria Lello, one of Portugal's oldest bookshops.

Like Venice and Amsterdam, Bruges is a city of canals but also one of medieval charm, chocolatiers, microbreweries and intricate lace. Visit the tiny Beguinage Convent, wonder at the gilded Bruges City Hall or take a selfie at the top of the Belfry of Bruges. The best time to take a canal cruise is in the evening when the setting sun turns the buildings of Rozenhoedkaaia into a symphony of orange and red.

Visiting a Turkish Bath such as the Catma Mescit Hammam in Istanbul is a must on any couples' getaway. Booking a massage and cleansing routine for two makes it truly indulgent. Stroll hand-in-hand through the streets of Istanbul's Grand Bazaar looking for a memento to treasure. Once the sun has disappeared over the horizon, set sail on a Bosphorus dinner cruise, the perfect way to see the city's main landmarks.

Nouvelle-Aquitaine architecture such as Tour-Pey Berland with its city views and the unique La Cité du Vin help put the romance in Bordeaux. Cruising along the River Garonne is the perfect way to see these and over 300 other listed buildings. Any romantic getaway to Bordeaux, however, should focus on wine. Enjoy wine tasting workshops for two or take an excursion to a nearby wine region such as Saint-Emilion and Sauternes. In the evening, enjoy a live show at the magnificent Grand Theatre.

Romance is easy to find in Dubrovnik. Simply take a walk through the Old Town where cobbled streets are lined with Baroque buildings. Find a quiet square to sip a glass of bubbly as you watch the world go by. For a different perspective on Dubrovnik, ride the Dubrovnik Cable Car to the top of Mount Srd. This is the perfect vantage point at sunset.