The Most Romantic Places in Italy

When you think of Italy, you probably think of romance. Known for its wine, food, art and history, Italy offers a variety of destinations for couples to indulge in a romantic weekend away. Enlist the help of a babysitter or a grandparent for a few nights, and jet off to one of Italy's historic, memorable cities. From the winding canals of Venice to the Shakespearean legacy of Verona, here are five Italian destinations you can enjoy with your significant other.

Venice is one of Italy's most iconic—and romantic cities. Located along Italy's northern coast, it's interlaced with winding canals surrounded by red roofs. Book into Ca' Pisani (Rio Terrà Foscarini, 979A, 30123 Dorsoduro, Venice), a charming boutique hotel with Art Deco stylings and a solarium terrace for sunning in the warmer months. It's a splurge, with rooms around $350 per night, but it gets you close to the Peggy Guggenheim Collection art museum (Dorsoduro, 701-704, 30123, Venice), as well as St. Mark’s Basilica and Piazza San Marco. Stroll through the streets hand-in-hand and don't forget to book a romantic evening ride in a gondola.

Nestled in the center of Italy's Lombardy region, Lake Como is best known for its dramatic views, especially of the Italian Alps. It's a picturesque and intimate destination (especially perfect for snapping enviable Instagram photos).

Lake Como is chilly in the winter, with temperatures around 40 degrees F, but summer is warm and temperate. Consider Hotel La Darsena (Via Regina, 3, 22016 Tremezzina), a popular modern property with views of the lake. Book a waterfront room for less than $250 per night, and relax on your private balcony. The food around Lake Como is top-notch, so any restaurant you select will make for the perfect date night out.

Situated high up along the Amalfi Coast, Positano has dramatic views and memorable mountain-side architecture. It has a pebbled beach and numerous hiking trails, and you'll love touring the historic Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta (Via Marina Grande, 84017 Positano SA, Italy). The town is pricey, but the Hotel Palazzo Murat (Via dei Mulini, 23, 84017 Positano) is worth the investment. The hotel is situated in an 18-century palace with its own botanical garden, and each uniquely-designed room is furnished with antiques. During your stay, sip on espresso in the nearby cafes, browse the town's many boutique shops and enjoy a few candle-lit dinners. The best time of year to visit is April through June when the weather is warm but not too hot, although a fall or winter visit will be less crowded and perfect for off-season hotel deals.

Verona is the fictional home of Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet, so what better place to visit with your true love? The two of you can pay a visit to Juliet's House, a 14th-century residence, and then explore the city's 1st-century Roman amphitheater. Enjoy a room at the Il Sogno di Giulietta (Via Cappello, 23, 37121 Verona), across the street from Juliet's balcony (considered by some to be the most romantic place in the world). The hotel offers several romance packages year-round, allowing you to indulge in all your Romeo and Juliet fantasies.

Piedmont is a less touristy region of Italy located at the foot of the Alps, bordering France and Switzerland. It's known for its fine wine, delicious cuisine and pastoral landscapes. Check out the historic city of Turin before venturing into the countryside to relax in one of Italy's small towns. Hotel Castello di Sinio (Vicolo del Castello, 1, 12050 Sinio) is a great destination in the area, with its rooms and suites built into one of the oldest castles in the Barolo wine region. There's a pool for summer visits and easy access to local wines year-round. Book into the Royal Tower Master Suite (from $425 per night) for the ultimate luxury.