5 Cozy Spring Getaways in Europe to Romanticize Your Weekend

Do you agree that we sometimes we plan weekend trips just to pretend we’re the main character in a story? Maybe it’s a book we never finish, a film without a plot, or just a weekend of wandering, wine, and windowsill people-watching. That’s exactly what this list is for: 5 soft, romanticized weekend getaways in Europe where it’s perfectly acceptable to spend 48 hours doing very little—very beautifully.

Whether you’re going solo or with someone you adore, these places are made for slow mornings, handwritten postcards, and long café pauses. No must-sees. Just vibes.

1. Lucca, Italy: For cobblestone cycling and aperitivo hour

Lucca is the quiet girl of Tuscany—and that’s why she’s perfect. The Renaissance walls still encircle the town, and you can cycle the whole loop in under an hour (but take longer, obviously).

You’ll spend most of your time meandering between negronis, espresso shots, and shops with handwritten price tags. On Saturdays, hit the antique market in Piazza San Giusto, and don’t skip a slow breakfast at Paniko. For dinner, Osteria Baralla is both candlelit and comforting.

Friday moment: Bike the city walls just before sunset with a scarf, a smile, and no schedule.

2. Leiden, Netherlands: For canals, croissants, and quiet joy

Leiden is what Amsterdam might feel like if it turned down the volume. This student town is full of charm but zero chaos. Wander slow canals, pop into De Kikkerkoning (a dreamy independent bookshop), and take your coffee at Borgman & Borgman—arguably one of the coziest cafés in the country.

Borgman & Borgman

Beautiful Leiden

Spring in Leiden also means gardens start blooming. Head to Hortus Botanicus Leiden if you need a slow walk with a side of floral therapy.

Friday moment: Sip tea by the canal with your journal open and your phone tucked away.

3. Český Krumlov, Czech Republic: For misty castles and moody mornings

This is the fairytale town you’ve seen in Pinterest reels—and it’s even better IRL. Arrive on a Friday and head straight to the Old Town. Everything here feels like it’s paused in time, from the painted façades to the slow pace of life.

Stop for hot chocolate at Kolektiv, watch the fog roll in over the Vltava River, and wander into artisan shops that smell like wood and beeswax. If it rains, all the better.

Vltava River

Kolektiv Český Krumlov

Friday moment: Get lost in the castle gardens with no one around but the sound of church bells.

4. Annecy, France: For pastel reflections and lakeside lounging

Annecy in spring is like a watercolor dream. You’ve got snow-capped mountains in the background, crystal-clear lake views, and alleyways filled with flower boxes and cheese shops.

Wake up slow with a buttery croissant at Brumes, stroll along the canals, then head to the lakefront to read in the grass. On Sundays, the antique market fills the old town with little treasures and people-watching gold.

Friday moment: Walk the Pont des Amours, but this time just for yourself.

5. Porto, Portugal: For tiles, tunes, and timelessness

There’s something about Porto that slows you down without asking. The river, the fado music, the weathered tiles—everything says, "you’re allowed to take it easy."

Find a little guesthouse with a balcony (like Casa da Companhia), and let yourself wander. Stop for lunch at Nicolau, walk up to Miradouro da Vitória with a pastel de nata in hand, and journal while the boats pass by.

You need to try the tasty pastel de nata

Friday moment: A slow dinner with vinho verde, soft music, and absolutely no notifications.

Q&A: Romanticizing Your Weekend Getaway

Do I need a partner for this trip?
Absolutely not. All of these spots are solo-friendly, and romanticizing your own company is kind of the whole point.

Is spring the best time to visit?
Yes! Fewer crowds, blooming flowers, and that crisp-but-not-cold air that makes everything feel cinematic.

Can I do these without flying?
Yep. All five cities are train-accessible from major hubs in Europe. Bonus points for keeping it low-impact.

What’s something to pack that feels extra?
A scarf. For style and impromptu picnics. Also: a real book, not an e-reader.

How much time do I need?
Two nights is enough for a reset. If you can stretch it to three, even better—but 48 hours is enough to feel it.