This Is the Most Romantic City in the World

Paris has long held the unofficial title of the world’s most romantic city, hence its nickname, the City of Love. But according to a new analysis from ground transportation booking company Mozio, another destination has taken the crown: Venice, Italy.

To determine the rankings, researchers analyzed several factors tied to romance, including the number of romantic restaurants and hotels listed on Tripadvisor, things couples can do in each destination, and wedding-related Google searches. Venice ultimately came out on top with a score of 9.65 out of 10, beating traditional favorites like Paris and Rome.

Part of what pushed Venice to the top was the sheer number of romantic places to stay and dine. The city boasts 148.8 romantic restaurants and 152.7 romantic hotels per 100,000 residents—the highest of any destination analyzed—and generates more than 63,000 wedding-related searches each year, more than twice the study’s average.

Of course, the city’s appeal goes far beyond statistics. Venice has no shortage of memorable experiences for couples, including, of course, a gondola ride through the city’s winding canals, where boats drift beneath stone bridges and past centuries-old buildings. For a different vantage point, climb the iconic St. Mark’s Campanile, where sweeping views of Venice’s rooftops and lagoon are especially beautiful at sunset. Alternatively, spend afternoons aimlessly wandering neighborhoods like Dorsoduro or Cannaregio, where small wine bars known as bacari serve local vino and cicchetti (think Venetian tapas like olives, crostini, and arancini). When it comes to dinner, options range from candlelit tables along the Grand Canal at restaurants like Ristorante Quadri or Osteria Da Fiore to cozy trattorias tucked into quiet squares.

Venice also feels different from most cities because the historic center is largely car-free, which means you’ll likely be exploring on foot—crossing bridges, wandering down narrow alleys, and occasionally ending up somewhere you didn’t plan—and some of the most romantic moments come from exactly that. Overall, the slower pace and lack of traffic only add to the city’s romantic atmosphere.

The study found that other destinations also ranked highly for romance. Florence came in second place thanks to its mix of Tuscan cuisine, historic architecture, and romantic hotels. Marrakesh followed in third, offering an entirely different atmosphere with bustling souks, riads, and immersive cultural experiences.

For the full list, visit Mozio’s website.