How to Spend Valentine's Day in Style by Elisha Burberry

Valentine's Day is the day to show your partner how much you love them, but sometimes it can be tricky to plan a real surprise. Perhaps the most romantic suggestion is to sweep them off their feet and whisk them away for a couple of days for a luxury city break for two.

With a little advance planning, a city break holiday can be the ideal way to spend Valentine's Day together. Europe has some of the most romantic destinations in the world to choose from - you could dine in Paris and take a trip up the Eiffel Tower, explore the canals in Venice, or take in the grandeur of the Colosseum in Rome, for example. Any of these destinations would sweep your partner off their feet and make a memorable short break for both of you.

The advantage of a European city break is that it's not that far from home. A quick flight from your local airport, or even a crossing on the Channel Tunnel in the case of Paris, and you're soon in another country altogether. You can book an extra day off work and go on a Friday, to make the most of having two nights away from home.

If you don't know the city you are going to visit, it's a good idea to do some research beforehand, to find out which places are recommended to see. Check out local landmarks, good restaurants and of course hotels, as you'll want to book a romantic city break to remember.

It's worth saving up in advance to make your Valentine's Day surprise come true, as a 5 star city break is the most luxurious way to celebrate in style. Don't forget, you are only spending two nights away from home, so it's well worth paying to stay in the best hotel you can afford. Just imagine the look on your loved one's face as you arrive at your 5 star hotel in one of the most romantic cities in Europe.

Whatever hotel you choose, it's a good idea to select one that is central to the best sights in the city. Consider what you are likely to do with your time, and remember that one of the best ways to see what any city has to offer is to go everywhere on foot if you can. Hence a central location - preferably with a great view - is the one to opt for.

If you are going to be away on Valentine's Day itself and you are planning to go out for a romantic meal for two, it's wise to pre-book if you can, as the restaurants are likely to be very busy whichever city you are in.

Part of making Valentine's Day memorable is trying new activities, and what better way to do that than to explore a foreign city instead of staying at home? So dig out your passport and surprise your partner with a trip they'll remember long after Valentine's Day has passed.

About the Author

Elisha Burberry is an online, freelance journalist and keen traveller and watersports enthusiast. Originally from Scotland, she now resides in London.