With so many beautiful cities in easy reach of the ports that we sail into, there are plenty of affordable weekend getaways for couples in Europe to choose from.
Whether you are looking for a Valentine’s Day break, a special anniversary trip, or simply hoping to escape everyday life for a few days, you’ll find lots of romantic destinations that you can visit without breaking the bank.
Weekend getaways for couples in France: Honfleur
France is renowned for being one of the most romantic countries in the world due to its picturesque cities, stunning countryside, delicious food, and famous wine, and many couples from far and wide flock to capital city Paris when they are looking for romance.
However, if you are looking for a more affordable weekend getaway in France you might prefer to head to beautiful Honfleur which is located just 3 hours from Calais and offers a range of lovely hotels and places to eat on a budget.
Boasting a beautiful port, winding narrow lanes, quaint timber-framed houses, and a number of lovely boutiques and galleries, Honfleur is the perfect place to enjoy romantic walks as its untouched buildings will make you feel like you have stepped back in time.
Honfleur is home to a number of affordable restaurants where you can enjoy delicious seafood or traditional French cuisine, and in the warmer months you will find that many eateries offer al fresco seating which just adds to the charm of this romantic city.
Weekend getaways for couples in the Netherlands: Utrecht
Known for its pretty canal networks, excellent cycling opportunities, and vibrant flower markets, the Netherlands offers couples a choice of perfect weekend getaways in scenic cities with friendly locals.
One of the most romantic cities in the Netherlands, Utrecht is less than an hour’s drive from the port in Rotterdam and hosts a number of accommodation and dining options that are affordable on any budget.
Once you have wandered around the city, or hired a bike and cycled around the picturesque streets, head to the Dom Tower which is one of Utrecht’s most striking buildings. For amazing views of the city and beyond, climb the tower’s 465 stairs and you may be able to spot Rotterdam and Amsterdam on a clear day.
During night-time in Utrecht a number of landmarks are lit up as part of Trajectum Lumen and discovering all 19 for yourself is a truly romantic activity. You can do this using a map which you can collect from the Tourist Office, or using the handy app. Finish the evening in one of the city’s charming bars with a regional beer while you watch the world go by.
Weekend getaways for couples in Belgium: Ghent
As the home of chocolate, arguably one of the most romantic foods around, Belgium is the ideal place for a weekend getaway, and its lively cities and old-world charm certainly help to make this a popular country for couples.
Although you may be tempted to head to Brussels or Bruges, we suggest a romantic trip to Ghent instead, as this beautiful medieval destination offers an equally wonderful experience but is more affordable than its neighbouring cities.
It takes less than an hour to drive to Ghent from the port in Zeebrugge, and just an hour and a half from Calais, so you can reach this city easily from both Dover and Hull when you travel with us. Plus, with plenty of accommodation options available you won’t need to worry about finding somewhere that suits your budget.
When you arrive in Ghent, spend your weekend getaway exploring cobblestone streets, walking along the canals, eating delicious waffles, and trying Belgian beers in cosy bars. You might also like to visit Ghent’s fascinating castle, enjoy a romantic canal cruise, or take a walking tour around the city so that you don’t miss a single one of its impressive buildings.
With so many affordable weekend getaways for couples in Europe to choose from, why not treat your loved one to a romantic escape and book your ferry crossing with us today.
