Whether your idea of a perfect honeymoon is relaxing on a beach, discovering a new city or getting outdoors and exploring, Europe has it all. If you're newlyweds who want to do little else than spend time with each other and chill out, then the clear water of the Mediterranean and the sandy beaches of Greece could be the destination for you. If you're a couple that love each other but like to do different activities on holiday, then there are European destinations such as Spain and Croatia that enable you to both sight see and sunbathe. So, all you need to do is decide where in Europe you want to honeymoon.
Croatia
This may not be the obvious choice, but Croatia makes for a fabulous honeymoon. It is also a country where you can easily split your honeymoon between the historic walled city of Dubrovnik with its shops, pavement cafes and baroque architecture before heading to the sandy beaches of the Adriatic coast. Take a boat trip and discover the romantic and unpopulated islands found just off the coast. With its Mediterranean climate and beautiful scenery Croatia is becoming a popular alternative to Italy, but is as yet unspoilt.
France
What city could be more romantic than Paris? Luxury hotels such as La Tremoille and Hotel de Crillon in the heart of Paris are an ideal base. Start your day with croissants and coffee in bed before exploring the city and visiting the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe, Tuileries Gardens and the Louvre. A honeymoon to Paris is all about cosy candlelit dinners and fine dining, romantic boat trips on the River Seine and moonlit walks.
If luxury mixed with sunshine, beaches and a splash of glamour is your idea of honeymoon heaven then the Cote d'Azur on the French Riviera is the place. With a backdrop of mountains, the Cote d'Azur is a heady combination of beaches, medieval villages, good food, fine wine and glamorous Monaco.
Greece
The Greek islands are idyllic for honeymooners, and there are plenty to choose from. One of the best, and arguably one of the most romantic destinations in Europe, if not the world, is the volcanic island of Santorini, which is part of the Cyclades. Santorini is famous for its sunsets that can be viewed from the caldera rim. The picturesque town of Oia that clings to the most southerly point of the caldera is one of the best places on the island to watch the sun go down. It's even better if you have your own apartment with a private terrace. There are plenty of hotels and apartments to choose from in Oia, plus in the island's capital Fira and the quieter village of Imerovigli, which is situated between the two.
Iceland
If you enjoy the outdoors and want a honeymoon with a difference, then Iceland is the place to go. Hike in the Vatnajokull National Park, Europe's largest, or go horse riding along deserted beaches and whale watching in the surrounding North Atlantic. Experience the natural scenery with a dip in hot springs before spending time in the vibrant city of Reykjavik. If you honeymoon in Iceland between September and April then be amazed by the natural light show of the Northern Lights.
Italy
There are a multitude of places to go on a honeymoon in Italy. Venice is the epitome of romance with Gondola rides and luxurious canal-side hotels. Visit the spirited city of Rome for its fascinating history and step back in time at the Colosseum and Pantheon. Combine the privacy of your own Tuscan villa nestled in stunning countryside, with day trips to Florence, Pisa and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Siena.
Spain
In the beautiful region of Andalucia lies Seville. If you opt for a spring wedding then Seville is a delightful place to honeymoon as the celebrations of Semena Santa (Holy Week) take place and the streets are filled with the scent of orange blossom. At any time of the year you can enjoy the narrow streets of the Jewish District, admire the 15th century Gothic cathedral and toast your marriage with local wine at a tapas bar.
Your European Honeymoon
Whether you choose to go on your European honeymoon the day after your wedding or a year later, a honeymoon is the chance for a newly married couple to celebrate their marriage, and to spend quality time together simply enjoying each others company. Add into the mix the European destinations of France, Greece or Spain and you have the recipe for a memorable honeymoon.
Kate Frost - Kate Frost has had work published in New Welsh Review and The London Magazine. She has a MA in Creative Writing from Bath Spa ...
