Dream Holiday for Two: Romantic Escapes with a&o Hostels

Valentine's Day is just around the corner. Stuck on how to wow your favourite person? How about a romantic getaway for two to make them feel like they’re on cloud nine?

Plan Ahead and Make Valentine’s Day Unforgettable.

Why not surprise your partner with a couple’s getaway this Valentine’s Day? It doesn’t have to cost a fortune! With over 40 a&o Hostels and Hotels in Europe, you can book a modern double room at a budget-friendly price - without sacrificing comfort or service.

Prefer to plan the trip together? A hotel voucher makes the perfect gift. You’ll both have something to look forward to: A romantic holiday for two.

Buy your a&o Hostels voucher here!

Valentine’s Day, celebrated every year on 14 February, is rooted in Saint Valentine, the patron saint of lovers. While it’s been popular in Germany since the mid-20^th century, some traditions – like cards, flowers, and chocolates – can feel a bit too predictable. Instead, why not give something truly meaningful? An a&o Hostels voucher is an affordable and thoughtful gift that emphasizes quality time together.

Let’s be honest: There’s nothing better than exploring the world with your favourite person. Whether you’ve just fallen head over heels or you’re celebrating a decade of marriage, these moments create lasting memories.

Check out our top five romantic destinations for couples – or browse our many other a&o Hostels locations to find your perfect spot.

Venice – A City of Lagoons and a Thousand Bridges

Venice is undeniably one of the most romantic cities in the world - perfect for couples looking for an unforgettable getaway filled with art, culture and history. Built across 100 islands, this enchanting city will sweep you off your feet with its dreamy canals, stunning architecture and fairytale vibes. And with a&o Venezia Mestre conveniently located on the mainland in Mestre, exploring Venice is a breeze.

No trip to Venice is complete without a gondola ride. Gliding past grand palaces and under charming bridges is a must for couples - it's a memory you’ll treasure forever. There’s nothing quite like floating through the canals, feeling like you’ve stepped into a romantic daydream.

St Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco) is the beating heart of Venice, bursting with romance and history. Stroll hand-in-hand through the square, surrounded by iconic sights like St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace. Take a break at one of the elegant cafés, sip on an espresso or a glass of Prosecco and soak in the live classical music while watching the lively buzz of the city.

The Rialto Bridge is another must-see. Not only is it one of Venice’s most famous landmarks, but it’s also a spectacular spot to admire the Grand Canal. Take in the gorgeous Venetian architecture and watch the boats go by. A walk across the Rialto Bridge is pure magic.

Getting there: From Marco Polo Airport, hop on one of the frequent buses (routes 10, 15, 25, or 35) to Mestre. From Mestre train station, you can easily reach the heart of Venice by regional train or bus - quick, convenient and budget-friendly.

Vienna – Mozart’s City on the Danube

The Austrian capital is a dream destination for couples, offering countless romantic experiences. With its stunning architecture and unforgettable charm, Vienna is perfect for a magical getaway. Stay affordably at one of our two a&o Wien Hauptbahnhof or a&o Wien Stadthalle.

Explore Vienna in style with a horse-drawn Fiaker carriage ride. Sit back, relax and discover the city’s beauty from a unique perspective. As you pass grand buildings and charming squares along the historic streets, it’s like stepping into a fairy tale. The romantic atmosphere and timeless charm will leave you enchanted.

For a peaceful stroll, head to the Prater, a sprawling park in the heart of Vienna. Relax in the lush greenery, and don’t miss a ride on the iconic Vienna Ferris Wheel. With breathtaking views and a cosy atmosphere high above the city, it’s the perfect spot for a tender moment with your special someone.

Vienna’s famous coffee house culture is a must for any visit. Stop by historic gems like Café Central or Café Sacher for a Viennese Melange or a slice of Sachertorte. These elegant cafés, filled with antiques and old-world charm, offer the perfect setting for relaxed conversations and romantic moments.

No trip to Vienna is complete without visiting Schönbrunn Palace, the former summer residence of the Habsburgs. Wander through the beautifully manicured gardens or tour the palace to immerse yourself in imperial history. It’s a place where dreams of royal romance come to life.

Getting there: Arriving via Vienna International Airport? Simply take the train or S-Bahn to the city centre. Both a&o Hostels are well-connected to public transport, making your stay as convenient as it is romantic.

Edinburgh – The City of Seven Hills

Edinburgh, the stunning capital of Scotland, is a dream destination for couples. With its medieval streets, historic landmarks and breathtaking views of the city and countryside, it’s the perfect spot for a romantic escape. Start your magical journey in the Old Town, just steps away from a&o Edinburgh City, where you can end the day with a drink in the cosy bar.

Edinburgh Castle, perched on an extinct volcano, is a must-see for everyone - especially couples. From its vantage point, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the city. Catching the sunset from here is pure magic, offering a moment you’ll cherish forever.

At the far end of The Royal Mile lies Holyrood Palace, the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland. This grand palace exudes a calm, romantic atmosphere. Wander through the opulent rooms once occupied by kings and queens, and soak up the regal charm.

For couples who love nature and stunning vistas, a hike up Arthur’s Seat is a must. The climb may be a bit challenging, but the summit rewards you with peace, panoramic views, and an unforgettable setting for a romantic moment.

Calton Hill is another incredible spot for romance. It offers one of the best views of Edinburgh, including the castle and the sea. Visit at sunset to experience the hill’s relaxed atmosphere and take in the dreamy vistas, hand in hand.

Back in the Old Town, explore the maze of cobbled streets, narrow lanes and historic buildings that feel straight out of a fairytale. Harry Potter fans will especially love discovering the spots that inspired J.K. Rowling, like Victoria Street (the inspiration for Diagon Alley) or The Elephant House café, where the first pages of Harry Potter were written. A stroll through these enchanting alleys is like stepping into a world of fantasy.

Getting there: From Edinburgh Airport, hop on a bus or tram straight to the city centre. Waverley Station serves as the main transport hub, making it an ideal starting point for your adventure.

Prague – The Golden City on the Vltava

Prague is a dream destination for couples seeking romance and history in a truly unique setting. With its charming streets, historic architecture and enchanting atmosphere, the Czech capital never fails to capture hearts. For an affordable and comfortable stay, book a private double room at a&o Praha Rhea – the perfect base for your romantic adventure.

The Charles Bridge is Prague’s most iconic landmark and a haven for romance. With over 30 statues lining its path, the bridge is especially magical in the early morning or at dusk, as the city lights reflect off the Vltava River. Stroll hand in hand and soak in the breathtaking views of the Old Town.

For a touch of grandeur, visit Prague Castle, the world’s largest ancient castle complex. Explore the stunning St Vitus Cathedral, the historic Royal Palace and the lush castle gardens, which offer panoramic views of the city and river. It’s the perfect spot to create unforgettable memories.

The Old Town is ideal for a romantic wander, with its winding lanes, historic squares, and cosy cafés. Take a break at the picturesque Old Town Square, surrounded by beautiful architecture. Enjoy a drink at one of the charming cafés, savour the moment and watch the world go by.

For an extra-special experience, hop on a horse-drawn carriage ride through the Old Town. As the sun sets and the city glows in warm light, it’s the ultimate romantic treat - relax, take in the views and enjoy the magic of Prague together.

Getting there: Prague is well-connected with direct flights from cities like Cologne, Düsseldorf, Frankfurt, Munich, Vienna and Zurich. From the airport, the metro is an easy and affordable way to reach the city centre. Travelling by train or long-distance bus is another convenient option from other European cities.

Budapest – City of Baths

Budapest, the ‘Pearl of the Danube’, is a city bursting with charm, history, stunning architecture and unforgettable experiences. It’s the perfect destination for a romantic getaway. Stay at the budget-friendly a&o Budapest City, and you’ll be right in the heart of it all, making your trip to Hungary’s capital both easy and enjoyable.

One thing Budapest is famous for? Its incredible thermal baths! They’re ideal for relaxation, romance and a little indulgence. Whether it’s the iconic Széchenyi Baths, the elegant Gellért Baths, or the historic Rudas Baths, these spots are havens of peace and beauty. Imagine soaking in warm, soothing water surrounded by magnificent, historic buildings - it’s like stepping into another world. Even better, visit in the evening when the baths are softly lit, creating a magical and intimate atmosphere for couples. It’s not just relaxing; it’s a beautiful way to spend quality time together.

For spectacular views and storybook charm, head to the Fisherman’s Bastion. With its fairytale towers and stunning architecture, it offers some of the best views of Budapest - think Parliament, the Danube and Buda Castle. Visit at sunset for an extra dose of romance; the setting is truly enchanting.

If you’re up for a little adventure outside the city, the nearby artists' village of Szentendre is a must-visit. This colourful riverside town is known for its charming streets, art galleries and cosy cafés. Wander hand-in-hand through the narrow alleys, explore the local art scene, or simply unwind over coffee and cake. With its laid-back vibe and views of the Danube, it’s a dreamy spot for a relaxed day together.

Getting there: From Budapest Airport, hop on the direct 100E bus or take the 200E bus followed by the M3 metro to reach the city centre. For example, get off at Kálvin tér station and check out the Great Market Hall, where you’ll find stalls selling everything from local food to souvenirs. Both of Budapest’s main train stations are just a short walk from the a&o Hostels, making your stay even more convenient.

Got hooked?

Then book your trip with a&o to Edinburgh!