Portugal Joins France, Italy, Slovenia, Hungary and Romania as Countries Across Europe Coming Forward With the Ultimate Underrated Honeymoon Destinations Promising Unforgettable Romance and Newlywed Magic

A honeymoon is more than just a holiday—it is the first shared adventure of married life, a time to slow down, celebrate love, and create memories that will last forever. While Europe is filled with iconic romantic destinations such as Paris, Rome, and Santorini, these places often come with heavy crowds, high prices, and a fast-paced tourist atmosphere that can take away from the intimacy couples seek. This is why many newlyweds are now looking beyond the obvious and turning their attention to Europe’s underrated honeymoon destinations.

Hidden across the continent are enchanting countries and regions that offer the same romance, beauty, and cultural richness—often with greater privacy and authenticity. From serene islands surrounded by dramatic nature to storybook towns, vineyard-covered landscapes, thermal spa cities, and medieval escapes, these lesser-known destinations allow couples to experience Europe in a more personal and meaningful way. They invite honeymooners to wander at their own pace, enjoy quiet moments together, and immerse themselves in local traditions without distractions.

Choosing an underrated honeymoon destination is about embracing uniqueness and discovery. It’s about finding places where love feels uninterrupted, experiences feel genuine, and every moment becomes a shared story worth remembering.

1. Azores, Portugal

Tucked in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, the Azores are an archipelago of nine volcanic islands offering a wild, natural beauty unlike anywhere in Europe.

Why It’s Perfect for Honeymooners

• Dramatic landscapes — volcanic craters, emerald lakes, lush forests, and plunging coastal cliffs create unforgettable scenery.
• Outdoor romance — hiking, whale-watching, thermal hot springs, and scenic drives give adventurous couples plenty to do.
• Uncrowded and serene — far less touristed than mainland Portugal, it feels like your own private paradise.

Must-Do Experiences

• Sete Cidades Lakes: Visit the twin lakes framed by volcanic ridges — perfect for sunset photos.
• Furnas Valley: Bathe in hot springs and enjoy the traditional “Cozido” stew cooked in geothermal heat.
• Whale & Dolphin Watching: The Azores are one of the world’s premier whale-watching regions.
• Tea Plantations: Sip Azorean tea amid rolling green fields — Europe’s only tea plantations!

Tips

Stay on São Miguel Island for the best variety of landscapes and services. Travel between islands by short flights or ferries.

2. Colmar & Alsace, France

Colmar — a medieval town in the Alsace region of northeastern France — is like stepping into a storybook. Cute canals, brightly painted timbered houses, cobblestone streets, and world-class wine make it a fairy-tale honeymoon spot.

What Makes It Special

• Storybook charm: Colmar’s canal district (“Little Venice”) is picturesque year-round.
• Wine and cuisine: Alsace is one of France’s great wine regions — sample Riesling, Gewürztraminer, and classic French Alsatian food.
• Day trips: Visit other fairytale villages like Riquewihr and Eguisheim along the scenic Alsace Wine Route.

Romantic Highlights

• Boat rides on the canals at sunset.
• Wine tastings in centuries-old cellars.
• Christmas markets (if you honeymoon in winter) with twinkling lights and cozy vibes.
• Bike rides through vineyards and rolling hills.

Best Time to Go

Late spring through early fall for lush scenery and warmer weather. Winter offers magical holiday atmosphere if you love festive markets.

3. Puglia, Italy

Italy’s “heel of the boot,” Puglia delivers sun, sea, romance, and rustic charm — all without the crowds of Tuscany or the Amalfi Coast.

Why Puglia Shines

• Beautiful coastline: Turquoise water, hidden coves, and dramatic cliffs ideal for beach days and seaside dinners.
• Historic towns: Whitewashed Ostuni, trulli-filled Alberobello, and cliff-top Polignano a Mare are postcard-perfect.
• Authentic Italy: Regional cuisine, local markets, and olive groves create a slow-living, romantic atmosphere.

Romantic Must-Sees

• Trulli villages: Sleep inside a traditional cone-roofed trullo — uniquely Puglian!
• Sunset in Polignano a Mare: Dine with views over the Adriatic.
• Ostuni at night: Wander narrow white streets lit by golden lights.
• Beach hopping: From Baia dei Turchi to Torre dell’Orso, beaches here are gorgeous and often uncrowded.

Insider Tip

Rent a car — public transport is limited, and a car gives you freedom to explore hidden beaches and hilltop villages.

4. Lake Bled & Julian Alps, Slovenia

Slovenia’s Lake Bled is one of Europe’s most romantic natural destinations — without the tourism crush of nearby lakes in Italy or Switzerland.

What You’ll Love

• Fairytale scenery: A church on an island, a medieval castle on a cliff, and a pristine alpine lake — what’s not to love?
• Outdoor adventure: Hiking, cycling, rowing, rafting, and waterfall-surrounded gorges nearby.
• Slovenian hospitality: Friendly locals, hearty cuisine, and boutique hotels — many with spa services.

Ultimate Romantic Moments

• Row to Bled Island and ring the “wishing bell” together.
• Sunrise by the lake: Soft morning light on the water is magical.
• Visit Vintgar Gorge: Walk elevated wooden paths beside roaring rapids.
• Take a cable car up to Mala Osojnica for panoramic views over the lake.

When to Visit

Summer for swimming and hikes, shoulder seasons for quieter stays, winter for snow-covered romance.

5. Bordeaux & Dordogne, France

While Bordeaux is famed among wine lovers, the Bordeaux region and neighboring Dordogne often get skipped on classic honeymoon itineraries. That’s a huge opportunity for couples who love wine, long dinners, and historic charm.

Romantic Appeal

• World-class wine — not just Bordeaux reds, but white Bordeaux and sweet wines too.
• Châteaux stays: Sleep in elegant estates or converted castles.
• Medieval villages: Sarlat and Saint-Émilion feel like time capsules.

Highlights for Couples

• Wine tours & tastings: Explore vineyards, barrel rooms, and cellar tours together.
• Sunset river cruises on the Dordogne or Garonne.
• Hot air balloon ride over vineyards and limestone cliffs.
• Gourmet dining: Michelin-starred restaurants and casual bistros alike.

Best Seasons

Late spring to early autumn for vineyard beauty, harvest season (September/October) for extra wine flair.

6. Budapest & Danube Bend, Hungary

Budapest is a city that dazzles with thermal baths, dramatic architecture, and a vibrant romance — yet many honeymooners overlook it in favor of Western Europe.

City of Lights & Baths

• Thermal spas: Spend lazy afternoons in famous bathhouses like Széchenyi or Gellért — a blissful couples’ activity.
• Danube views: The river splits Buda and Pest, with grand bridges and historical skyline.
• Historic cafes: Perfect for slow breakfasts and people-watching.

Danube Bend Day Trips

Just north of Budapest lie charming towns and scenic nature:

• Szentendre: Cobblestone art town with pastel houses and galleries.
• Visegrád: Hilltop ruins and postcard views over the bend in the river.
• Esztergom: Grand basilica and quiet riverfront strolls.

Romantic Experiences

• Dinner cruise on the Danube: Illuminated bridges at night are unforgettable.
• Sunset from Fisherman’s Bastion: Look over the city with your partner.
• Ruins bar crawl: Quirky nightlife in artsy ruin pubs.

7. Transylvania & Sibiu, Romania

Transylvania evokes myths of Dracula but is truly a region of castles, medieval towns, dramatic mountains, and gentle pastures — ideal for couples seeking something atmospheric and unique.

Why It’s Romantic

• Medieval towns: Sibiu, Brasov, and Sighișoara are beautiful and less crowded than many Western European counterparts.
• Castles and fortresses: Bran Castle (inspired by Dracula legends) and the fairytale-like Peleș Castle enchant history lovers.
• Carpathian landscapes: Drive the Transfăgărășan (one of the world’s most scenic roads) or hike in the forests and alpine meadows.

Highlights for Couples

• Old Town walks in Sibiu: Cobblestone squares, lively cafés, and pastel facades set a romantic scene.
• Castle tours: Visit dramatic hilltop fortresses and elegant royal estates.
• Horse-drawn carriage rides in Brasov’s old square.
• Wild forest picnics: Pack cheeses, bread, and local wine for a quiet afternoon.

Best Times to Visit

Late spring through early autumn for hiking and open castles. Winter offers snowy landscapes and cozy guesthouses.

Tips for Planning an Underrated Honeymoon in Europe

Here are practical tips to make the most of your journey:

1. Book Off-Season or Shoulder Season

Travel in May–June or September–October for milder weather and fewer crowds — ideal for honeymooners seeking quiet romance.

2. Rent a Car Where Possible

Many off-the-beaten-path spots (Azores islands, Puglia, Dordogne countryside) are easier with a car and reward you with scenic drives and hidden stops.

3. Mix Culture & Relaxation

Balance sightseeing with slow-paced experiences — wine tastings, beach days, thermal baths, candlelit dinners — classic honeymoon activities.

4. Stay in Unique Accommodations

Choose boutique hotels, romantic B&Bs, castles, or seaside villas instead of generic hotels. They elevate the experience and often come with special touches for honeymooners.

5. Plan a Few “Surprise” Moments

Whether it’s a private dinner overlooking the sea, a hot air balloon ride, or a sunset boat cruise, plan experiences that feel personal and memorable.

Final Thoughts

Europe’s lesser-known honeymoon destinations offer unique landscapes, rich culture, and unforgettable experiences — often at better value and with more privacy than popular tourist hubs. Whether you love nature, wine, history, beach days, or thermal spas, there’s a hidden European gem waiting to make your honeymoon magical.

Would you like customized honeymoon itineraries for any of these destinations? I can map out day-by-day plans!

The post Portugal Joins France, Italy, Slovenia, Hungary and Romania as Countries Across Europe Coming Forward With the Ultimate Underrated Honeymoon Destinations Promising Unforgettable Romance and Newlywed Magic appeared first on Travel and Tour World