Three ideas for Valentine's Day 2026

Valentine's Day 2026 is approaching, bringing with it the search for the perfect destination to celebrate as a couple. If you are planning your romantic weekend and still haven't decided where to go on Saturday 14 February, Italy offers countless dream locations for this special day, from art cities to charming villages surrounded by nature.

In this guide, you will discover three ideal destinations for Valentine's Day 2026, with tips on what to see, where to dine and how to make your romantic getaway truly unforgettable. From Venetian gondola rides to romantic walks in Rome with city views, to the medieval charm of Umbria, discover where to book your couples' getaway and how to celebrate Valentine's Day in style.

Valentine's Day 2026: enjoy a getaway to Venice

When it comes to romantic weekends in Italy, Venice is undoubtedly one of the most beloved destinations. Couples from all over the world travel here to immerse themselves in the romantic atmosphere that only the capital of Veneto can offer. La Serenissima is full of stunning places waiting to be discovered: 

• Iconic tourist highlights such as the Grand Canal, Rialto Bridge, Bridge of Sighs and St Mark's Square, which becomes even more evocative at sunset. 

• The colourful islands of Murano and Burano, each with its own artisanal traditions: Murano is famous for the art of its master glassmakers, while Burano is home to the first Lace School, now a museum.

• The Fondamenta delle Zattere, a renowned panoramic spot offering a breathtaking and romantic sunset over the lagoon. This is an almost unmissable stop if you want to surprise your loved one with an unforgettable view. 

And to make your Valentine's weekend in Venice even more special, treat yourself to a sunset gondola ride: a unique way to experience the lagoon city, its canals and hidden corners that often lie beyond the usual tourist routes.

Where to stay in Venice: romantic hotels for couples

To experience authentic Venetian charm on Valentine's Day weekend 2026, we recommend booking a room at Maison Venezia | UNA Esperienze. This prestigious historic palace has been restored to its former glory thanks to an extensive renovation. Located in the Cannaregio district, it offers 28 beautifully furnished rooms to provide you with an unparalleled experience.

For those who prefer to combine the familiar comfort of B&Bs with the prestige and elegance of Venetian residences, Residenza Venezia | UNA Esperienze is the ideal solution. Managed by Maison Venezia, this property offers six elegant rooms located between Ponte di Rialto and Venezia Santa Lucia, the perfect setting for your romantic stay

San Gemini: A romantic weekend in Umbrian nature

Valentine's Day is the ideal occasion for a romantic getaway in nature. Italy offers many green retreats, both well known and hidden. Among them, we recommend the enchanting village of San Gemini, in Umbria. Included among the most beautiful villages in Italy, this town is famous above all for the beneficial properties of its waters, for the ancient Carsulae settlement and the unique medieval atmosphere. Here's what to see in San Gemini in a day: 

• The ancient Porta Romana, dating back to the 18th century and the current entrance to the historic centre of the village. Passing through this imposing gateway leads you into the main square, where the Church of San Francesco stands. Built in the 13th century, it is a valuable example of Gothic architecture and houses numerous frescoes from the Umbrian school.

• Carsulae, about 4 km from San Gemini. This is a true open-air museum: a Roman town founded in the 3rd century BC, whose ruins are still visible today. Highlights include the forum area with remains of two twin temples and a basilica, the theatre, the amphitheatre and the Arch of San Damiano.

• The Marmore Falls, about a 20-minute drive from the village, one of Italy's most spectacular natural attractions and among the highest man-made waterfalls in Europe. You can explore them with your partner along the five available trails, including the Lovers' Path, a short but intense walk leading to the famous Lovers' Balcony, a panoramic viewpoint near the waterfall's first drop. Opening times and tickets are available on the official website.

Hotels in San Gemini: your romantic oasis

The Grand Hotel San Gemini | UNA Esperienze offers a romantic stay where nature and elegance go hand in hand. Located within the Palazzo dei Principi di Santacroce, this four-star hotel has a strong artistic heritage, reflected in the beauty of its interiors and in prestigious spaces such as the Gallery of Frescoes and the Art Gallery. 

Surprise your partner with access to the SPA and fitness centre, where you can recharge through the sauna, steam bath and Starpool hydromassage technology. Finally, explore the evocative centuries-old park surrounding the hotel, creating a magical setting for an unforgettable Valentine's Day 2026 stay. 

Rome, for a Valentine's Day dinner with a view

Rome has always been one of the most romantic cities in the world, and Valentine's Day is the perfect opportunity to experience its most evocative side. Your Valentine's Day in Rome has to include a stroll through the historic heart of the city, visiting iconic landmarks such as Piazza di Spagna, the Spanish Steps, and Villa Borghese, ideal for a romantic walk among tree-lined avenues and panoramic terraces. Here you will find the famous Pincian Terrace, offering a breathtaking view over Piazza del Popolo.

Among the neighbourhoods worth visiting is Trastevere, one of Rome's most charming and romantic districts. Lose yourself among narrow streets, small squares and artisan shops, then head up to the Janiculum Hill, one of the most beautiful viewpoints in the city. The belvedere is a must for couples wondering what to do on Valentine's Day in Rome, thanks to its spectacular view over the historic centre.

To end your Valentine's Day in Rome, treat your loved one to a candlelit dinner on a rooftop terrace. Trastevere Roma | UNA Esperienze, located in the lively district of the same name, welcomes you to its Vista Trastevere Roof Bar & Restaurant. Situated on the seventh floor, the restaurant features a panoramic terrace offering a breathtaking view. Between rooftops and the city's hills, your Valentine's Day dinner will be truly unforgettable.

The evening menu includes porchetta-style artichoke with polenta crostini, followed by tagliolini with beetroot cream, Pecorino di Amatrice fondue and crispy guanciale. The main course is sliced beef fillet with black truffle and buttered mashed potatoes, finished with a warm molten chocolate cake with chilli. If you would like to book a romantic table for two, please contact the restaurant directly on +39 3386013412.

For anyone wondering where to spend Valentine's Day 2026, the options are endless. The Feast of Lovers is a unique opportunity to visit some of Italy's most beautiful destinations and create unforgettable memories with your special someone. All that remains is to choose your destination, book your hotel and set off on a dream weekend.