Romantic Italy

Italy has always attracted and inspired romantics. The country most nearly synonymous with romance boasts a rich tradition of lovers, from the saucy ancient counsel of Ovid to the excesses of legendary Latin lover Casanova. It could be the beautiful landscapes, the rich rosy sunsets, the evocative stones, or maybe the fine wine, but Italy boasts a romantic reputation that is second to none.

There can be few experiences as romantic as wandering the little streets at the heart of Rome at night, or draining another glass of limoncello on a restaurant terrace overlooking the Mediterranean.

From a lavish luxury hotel to a tranquill hideaway, Italy offers destinations that are perfect for a dream honeymoon or a romantic break.

Venice

Venice, la Serenissima, is Italy's floating jewel, the destination that comes closest to an incarnation of Romance. It may be a cliche, but few could resist the romantic appeal of a midnight gondola ride, a wander hand-in-hand over the Bridge of Sighs. The perfect place for that romantic proposal you'll hope to tell the grandchildren all about.

There are budget flights from the UK now, so even if you're looking for an economic elopement rather than a leisurely luxury honeymoon, Venice is still an ideal option.

> More about Venice
> Luxury hotels in Venice

Rome

Rome is known as the Eternal City, and wandering among the ruins of Ancient Rome, the winding lanes of Medieval Rome, and admiring the palazzi and fountains of Renaissance Rome, your romantic holiday will place you among the great traditions of western civilisation. There are countless excellent restaurants with seating on the street, where you can watch the world go by, enticing corners to explore and rose-sellers to supply the finishing touch as you stroll over the Tiber, with the strains of gypsy music in the air.

> More about Rome
> Romance in Rome
> Whereabouts to stay in Rome

Capri and the Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast is a popular honeymoon destination in Italy. The views are spectacular, and the hotels are first-rate. The pace of life is slower than in the cities; you can breakfast on a hotel balcony overlooking the sea, or take a leisurely boat trip along the dramatic coastline. Ravello, above Amalfi, is a quiet and romantic location, with beautiful gardens where you can enjoy evening concerts in the summer. The Isle of Capri is a stylish destination that was in vogue even in ancient times; the Emperor Tiberius retired to a luxury villa here.

> More about the Amalfi Coast
> Amalfi Coast luxury hotels
> Find accommodation on the Amalfi Coast

Useful Italy Guides

	Time Out Guide to Venice Time Out are just about the best city guides. They are excellent guides to the places, restaurants, shops and bars that are off the main tourist trail. They also provide comprehensive information on the major sights, and help you get to grips with the real, living city. Buy now from Amazon.co.uk Buy from Amazon.com (US visitors)
	Time Out Guide to Rome As well as a generous helping of useful sightseeing information, this practical guide - divided by area - also provides an excellent rundown on restaurants and bars, to help you plan those romantic evenings. Buy now from Amazon.co.uk Buy from Amazon.com (US visitors)
	Time Out Guide to Naples, Capri, Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast Time Out also produce this comprehensive guide covering the Amalfi Coast and Capri as well as Naples; a useful guide if you are spending some time getting to know the area. Buy now from Amazon.co.uk Buy from Amazon.com (US visitors)