A Two-Week Dreamy Europe Honeymoon Itinerary

May 29, 2025 by Fotini Poulakiou

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This 14-day Europe honeymoon blends romantic cities, idyllic countryside, and sun-kissed beaches at a relaxed pace (two nights per destination). Traveling in May, June, or September (to enjoy pleasant weather and fewer crowds), you’ll journey from the Swiss Alps to Italy and finish in the Greek Isles.

Along the way, indulge in wine tastings, scenic train rides, luxurious spa visits, gondola rides, and charming local experiences. The route is designed geographically to minimize transit time, allowing you to savor each locale.

Below is a summary table of the day-by-day itinerary, followed by detailed recommendations for romantic activities, accommodations, and dining in each destination.

The journey begins in Lucerne’s Alps, travels through Italy (Venice, Florence & Tuscany, Amalfi Coast), and ends on Santorini’s idyllic island.

Itinerary Summary

Day	Destination	Highlights & Romantic Experiences
1	Lucerne, Switzerland	Arrive Zürich → train to Lucerne; evening stroll by Lake Lucerne with mountain backdrop; romantic dinner with lake views.
2	Lucerne	Mount Pilatus or Rigi excursion (scenic cogwheel railway); Alpine spa with infinity pool overlooking the lake; sunset cruise on Lake Lucerne.
3	Venice, Italy	Scenic train ride through the Swiss Alps into Italy; arrive Venice; evening gondola ride at sunset; stay in a canal-side palazzo.
4	Venice	Visit St Mark’s Square & Basilica; explore Doge’s Palace; wander backstreets; gelato by the Rialto Bridge; candle-lit dinner on the Grand Canal.
5	Florence, Italy	High-speed train to Florence; see the Duomo and Renaissance art (Uffizi or Accademia); afternoon wine-tasting tour in Chianti; cozy Tuscan dinner with Chianti wine.
6	Florence	Climb Giotto’s Campanile for city views; stroll Ponte Vecchio; rooftop-terrace café overlooking Florence’s skyline; optional couples’ spa massage at a luxury hotel.
7	Tuscan Countryside (Chianti)	Pick up rental car; drive scenic Chianti vineyards & medieval hill towns (Greve, Castellina); check-in at wine estate or castle hotel; farm-to-table dinner with local olive oil & wine.
8	Tuscan Countryside	Day trip to Siena or San Gimignano; wine tastings (Brunello or Chianti Classico); relax by pool or thermal spa – Tuscany’s rolling hills as backdrop.
9	Positano, Amalfi Coast	Drop car in Florence; fast train to Naples → private transfer to Positano; cliff-side hotel with sea-view balcony; Aperol Spritz at sunset; candle-lit seafood dinner.
10	Positano	Boat along Amalfi Coast – Capri (Blue Grotto) or Amalfi & Ravello; beach time on Spiaggia Grande; shop for limoncello & ceramics; sunset dinner at La Sponda (Le Sirenuse).
11	Santorini, Greece	Morning flight via Athens; settle in Oia or Imerovigli caldera-view suite with private plunge pool; sunset wine tasting at a caldera winery; dinner under the stars on the caldera edge.
12	Santorini	Explore white-washed villages (Oia, Fira); romantic caldera path walk; afternoon at Perivolos black-sand beach or cave-spa; sunset catamaran cruise with dinner.
13	Santorini	Free day: breakfast on terrace; optional Akrotiri ruins or Greek cooking class; Assyrtiko wine tasting; final cliff-side dinner as caldera lights sparkle.
14	Departure	Morning flight from Santorini (via Athens or direct charter) → home. Farewell to Europe: gondolas, vineyards & unforgettable sunsets in your suitcase of memories.

Days 1–2: Lucerne, Switzerland – Alpine Scenery & Spa Retreat

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Begin your honeymoon in the Swiss Alps for a mix of scenic beauty and relaxation. Fly into Zurich and take a quick train (about 1 hour) to Lucerne, a postcard-perfect city on Lake Lucerne surrounded by snowcapped peaks. Lucerne’s romantic charm: stroll hand-in-hand across the 14th-century Chapel Bridge adorned with flowers, explore the quaint Old Town murals, and enjoy the lake’s serene waters.

For a romantic stay, choose a luxury hotel with lake and mountain views. The Bürgenstock Hotel & Alpine Spa (perched above the lake) offers an incredible infinity pool and spa – an intimate wellness experience high above the water. Spend an afternoon in the Alpine spa, unwinding in saunas and hot tubs overlooking panoramic vistas. In town, Hotel des Balances is a boutique honeymoon favorite on the Reuss River, known for its elegant rooms and riverside dining.

Don’t-miss experiences: Take a classic scenic train or funicular up to a mountain summit. The Mount Pilatus Golden Round Trip is a great choice – a boat across the lake, a cogwheel railway up Pilatus (with sweeping views), and a gondola cableway down. Alternatively, ascend Mt. Rigi for a couples’ hike and picnic at the summit. In the evening, set aside time for a sunset lake cruise. Several operators offer romantic dinner cruises on Lake Lucerne – dine on Swiss cuisine and wine as the scenery glides by.

For dinner on land, reserve a table at Restaurant Bam Bou or Scala Restaurant (at Art Deco Hotel Montana) – both boast panoramic terraces. Savor Swiss specialties like cheese fondue or fresh fish from the lake. With the Alps silhouetted and city lights twinkling on the water, Lucerne is a magical start to your honeymoon.

Travel to next destination: On Day 3, board a morning train from Lucerne through the Alps into Italy. The journey is part of the experience – sit on the left side for the best views of mountain valleys and lakes. In ~6.5 hours (one easy connection in Milan), you’ll arrive in Venice. Alternatively, for an extra romantic twist, consider taking the Bernina Express route: this legendary train winds from Switzerland to Italy, passing 55 tunnels and 196 bridges on a spectacular Alpine journey. This could be done as a day trip or as a longer route into Italy, if desired.

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Days 3–4: Venice, Italy – Gondolas & Timeless Romance

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Welcome to Venice, the floating city of love. Venice’s enchanting atmosphere – centuries-old palazzos, canals instead of roads – makes it the quintessential romantic city. Check into a canal-side luxury hotel such as the Hotel Cipriani, A Belmond Hotel, Venice (on Giudecca Island, offering privacy and lagoon views) or the historic The Gritti Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Venice overlooking the Grand Canal. Many hotels have special honeymoon amenities, like prosecco on arrival or private terraces.

On your first evening, indulge in Venice’s most iconic experience: a private gondola ride. As dusk falls, glide through the narrow canals and under ancient bridges while a gondolier navigates the waters. You might even be serenaded with Italian melodies as you cuddle with your spouse, drifting past lantern-lit facades – la dolce vita! This intimate gondola cruise at sunset or under the stars is often cited as the ultimate romantic Venice moment. Afterward, enjoy a candlelit dinner along the canal – try Ristorante Alle Testiere (cozy and famous for its seafood) or Club del Doge at the Gritti Palace, where you can dine on a terrace right by the Grand Canal.

Spend Day 4 exploring Venice’s cultural jewels at a relaxed pace. Visit St. Mark’s Square early to admire St. Mark’s Basilica (its gilded mosaics are stunning) and the Campanile bell tower. Perhaps climb the tower together for a panoramic view of Venice’s red rooftops and lagoon. Tour the Doge’s Palace to walk through ornate chambers and across the Bridge of Sighs. Later, wander away from the crowds – discover hidden squares and artisan shops (handmade masks, Murano glass). Every turn reveals a new charming vista or a quaint wine bar (bacaro). For lunch, grab cicchetti (Venetian tapas) and aperitivi at a local bacaro – a truly local, charming experience.

In the afternoon, you could take a private water taxi to the outer islands: Murano for a glass-blowing demonstration and Burano for its brightly-painted fishermen’s houses (great for photos together). Back in Venice, treat yourselves to gelato (the gelateria by Zattere promenade is perfect for a sunset over the Giudecca Canal). As night falls, consider a moonlit stroll – the stone streets of Venice are quieter after day-trippers leave, and an evening walk along the Grand Canal or through the misty alleys of Dorsoduro feels wonderfully romantic and exclusive.

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Days 5–6: Florence, Italy – Renaissance Romance & Tuscan Wine

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After a final Venetian cappuccino by the canal, take a high-speed train (~2 hours) to Florence, the heart of Tuscany. Florence offers an irresistible mix of art, history, and romance. Check in at a romantic hotel like Hotel Lungarno - Lungarno Collection (boutique luxury with Arno River views) or Il Salviatino Firenze (a lavish villa hotel in Fiesole’s hills with a spa). In the afternoon, dive into Florence’s Renaissance treasures: perhaps a guided walk to see Michelangelo’s David at the Accademia Gallery, and a visit to the Duomo – climb up Brunelleschi’s dome or Giotto’s bell tower together for a breathtaking vista of the city’s terracotta rooftops.

In the evening, celebrate la dolce vita with a special dinner. For a panoramic city view, La Terrazza Rooftop Bar (at Hotel Continentale) is perfect for aperitivo overlooking the Ponte Vecchio. Dine at Trattoria 4 Leoni (cozy Oltrarno spot known for pear ravioli) or Borgo San Jacopo (Michelin-starred, intimate and riverside). Stroll the Ponte Vecchio at night, when the jewelry shop lights reflect on the Arno, and maybe attach a love lock (though local officials discourage it nowadays, the sentiment is still sweet).

Day 6 is your day to savor Tuscany’s wine and countryside. In the morning, consider a private Chianti wine tour – a driver-guide can take you through rolling vineyards just outside Florence. Visit a winery or two in the Chianti Classico region, walk hand-in-hand through vine rows, and taste famous reds (Chianti, Brunello, or Super Tuscans) along with local olive oil. You’ll find that Tuscany’s rolling green hills, medieval towns, and sprawling vineyards create a picturesque backdrop for romance. For example: a tour might include the medieval town of San Gimignano (with its skyline of towers) for Vernaccia wine, or a stop at Castello di Verrazzano for a vineyard picnic.

If you prefer to stay in Florence city, you can explore more art (the Uffizi Gallery’s masterpieces) or indulge in a couples’ cooking class – learn to make pasta or gelato together, a fun bonding experience. In late afternoon, treat yourselves to some spa time: White Iris Spa at Hotel Continentale or Soulspace Spa offer couples’ massages and wellness rituals to rejuvenate after travel. As night falls, wander to Piazzale Michelangelo overlook for a sunset view of Florence – the city bathed in golden light is utterly romantic. Then enjoy a final Florentine dinner at a romantic spot like Il Palagio (Four Seasons Hotel) for refined dining in a frescoed room, or a quaint osteria in the Oltrarno quarter where the ambiance is warm and the Chianti flows freely.

Travel to next destination: On Day 7, you’ll transition from Florence into the Tuscan countryside. Renting a car is ideal for reaching rural hill towns at your own pace – the freedom to stop at tiny villages or panoramic viewpoints is well worth it. The drive to the Chianti/Val d’Orcia region is about 1–2 hours depending on your exact destination. Alternatively, hire a private driver if you prefer to just sit back and enjoy the scenery.

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Days 7–8: Tuscan Countryside (Chianti & Val d’Orcia) – Vineyards, Villages & Spa

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Now it’s time to slow down and relish la dolce far niente (the sweetness of doing nothing) in Tuscany’s romantic countryside. Head for the Chianti region or Val d’Orcia – both areas abound with vine-covered hills, cypress-lined lanes, and honey-colored stone villages. Base yourselves in a historic villa or agriturismo for an immersive experience. For example, Castello di Spaltenna Exclusive Resort & Spa in Chianti is a medieval monastery-turned-resort with its own winery, or Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco in Val d’Orcia offers ultra-luxury on a Brunello vineyard estate. Many estates have on-site spas and thermal baths – Tuscany is famous for natural hot springs, so you might take a dip in the healing waters of Bagno Vignoni or Saturnia. Indulging in a thermal spa together is both relaxing and romantic, and many resorts offer couples’ treatments.

During your countryside stay, explore at a leisurely pace. Day 7 after arrival could include a visit to a nearby medieval village. In Chianti, wander Radda or Castellina in Chianti, with their cobbled streets and wine enotecas. In Val d’Orcia, drive to Pienza, known as the “city of love” for its enchanting lanes (there’s even a Via dell’Amore) and pecorino cheese shops. Pause to share some local cheese and Tuscan salumi with a glass of wine – perhaps on a scenic overlook of the Orcia valley. Everywhere you turn is postcard-worthy: ancient stone farmhouses, fields of sunflowers (in summer), and vineyard rows. Tuscany has long been associated with romance, and it’s easy to see why, with its sun-drenched hills and storybook scenery providing a perfect setting for a dreamy honeymoon.

Day 8 is perfect for wine and relaxation. Arrange an intimate wine tasting tour: many wineries offer private cellar tours culminating in tastings of Chianti Classico, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, or Brunello di Montalcino. Sip robust reds and toast cin cin to your new marriage. You can also partake in local traditions like an olive oil tasting at a frantoio (olive mill) or even a truffle hunting excursion if in season (Fall). For a memorable lunch, consider a picnic among the vines – some agriturismi will prepare a basket with Tuscan bread, prosciutto, and a bottle of local wine.

Build in down time to simply enjoy your villa’s amenities: swim in an infinity pool overlooking vineyards, take a couples’ bike ride down country lanes, or curl up in a hammock for an afternoon siesta. If you’re adventure-inclined, a hot air balloon ride at dawn over Tuscany’s patchwork landscape is an unforgettable romantic experience (several operators around Siena/Chianti offer private balloon flights). As evening arrives, catch the sunset – the sky turns pink and gold over the Tuscan hills, a dreamy sight that will stay with you forever. Dine at your farmhouse or a local osteria on rustic Tuscan fare: wild boar ragù pappardelle, Bistecca alla Fiorentina for two, and finish with vin santo and cantucci biscuits. Under the stars, Tuscany will have cast its spell on you.

Travel to next destination: On Day 9, depart Tuscany for the Amalfi Coast. If you have a car, drive to Florence or Rome to drop it off, then take the high-speed train south. The fastest route is Chiusi->Rome->Naples by train (about 3 hours from Chiusi), but many will simplify by hiring a private driver from Tuscany directly to Naples/Amalfi – costly but comfortable. A convenient option: take the train from Florence to Naples (~3 hours) and arrange a private car transfer from Naples station to Positano (1.5 hours, scenic drive along curvy cliffs). By early afternoon you’ll be gazing at the Mediterranean.

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Days 9–10: Positano, Amalfi Coast – Coastal Glamour & Seaside Relaxation

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Arrive in Positano, the jewel of Italy’s Amalfi Coast, where colorful houses cascade down cliffs to the sea. This coastal village has long been a honeymoon hotspot for its dramatic scenery and la dolce vita vibes. Check in at a romantic clifftop hotel – options include Le Sirenuse (posh boutique with iconic views and a noted restaurant) or Il San Pietro di Positano (secluded luxury with a private beach elevator). Many hotels here have rooms with balconies overlooking the turquoise Tyrrhenian Sea – perfect for breakfast al fresco or to watch the sunset.

Spend your first evening unwinding from the travel. Take a stroll through Positano’s steep, narrow lanes lined with bougainvillea and chic boutiques. Pop into Ceramiche shops for hand-painted ceramics, or Moda Positano shops for custom-made sandals and linen outfits. As dusk approaches, find a vantage point for the legendary Amalfi Coast sunset – perhaps Franco’s Bar (an open-air terrace bar at Le Sirenuse) for an Aperol Spritz or prosecco. The views of the cliffs and sea are jaw-dropping, and romance is truly in the air. For dinner, reserve at La Sponda (Le Sirenuse’s restaurant lit by hundreds of candles) or Ristorante Max (for a quieter art-filled atmosphere). Dine on local delights: lemon-infused pasta, fresh catch of the day, and finish with delizia al limone (lemon sponge cake) – recalling that this coast is famed for its lemons and limoncello.

Day 10 is for exploring the Amalfi Coast’s splendor. A highly recommended experience is a private boat tour – nothing beats seeing the rugged coastline from the water. Hire a boat (with captain) from Positano’s pier and cruise along craggy cliffs to Capri Island. En route, you can dip into hidden coves for a swim in the clear blue water. At Capri, visit the Blue Grotto (timing and weather permitting) to witness neon-blue cave waters, then have lunch at a beach club like La Fontelina (accessible by boat) for a bit of celebrity flair. If time allows, take the funicular up to Capri town to stroll the glamorous piazzetta. Alternatively, your boat could take you west to Praiano and Furore Fjord, or east to Amalfi town. In Amalfi, visit the historic cathedral and grab a lemon sorbet served in a citrus shell. Another gem is Ravello, perched high above (reachable by car or taxi from Amalfi) – its Villa Cimbrone’s Terrace of Infinity has views that will make your hearts skip a beat.

After a day of adventure, spend late afternoon back in Positano relaxing beachside. You can rent a lounger on Spiaggia Grande or the more secluded Fornillo Beach. Swim in the gentle sea or just soak up the sun with a chilled limoncello. Romance, romance, romance is everywhere here – whether it’s sharing a gelato as you walk barefoot on the sand or just sitting quietly together listening to the waves. On your final evening on the Amalfi Coast, consider a sunset dinner at Il Tridente (at Hotel Poseidon) or Da Vincenzo (a beloved family-run spot) – both offer fantastic views and cuisine. As the sun sets into the sea, the sky turns pastel over Positano’s cliffside – a picture-perfect honeymoon moment. Finish with a moonlit walk through the nearly empty streets, and perhaps toast with a sip of local l’acqua di mare (anise liqueur) on your hotel terrace.

Travel to next destination: On Day 11, bid “arrivederci” to Italy and fly to Greece. The nearest airport is Naples; from Positano, a private transfer or taxi (1.5–2 hours) gets you there. There are seasonal direct flights from Naples to Santorini (or nearby Mykonos) in summer; otherwise, connect via Athens. For example, Positano departure early morning, Naples to Santorini via Athens could have you in Santorini by early afternoon. The journey is streamlined given no budget constraints – consider business class or arranging luggage transfers for extra comfort.

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Days 11–13: Santorini, Greece – Aegean Sunsets, Wine & Island Bliss

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Welcome to Santorini, one of the world’s most iconic romantic destinations. This Greek island dazzles with its caldera views, where whitewashed villages cling to cliffs above an azure sea-filled volcano crater. Settle into your cave suite at a luxurious caldera-view hotel in Oia or Imerovigli – popular honeymoon choices include Katikies Santorini - The Leading Hotels Of The World, Canaves Oia Suites - Small Luxury Hotels of the World, or Astra Suites, all offering private plunge pools or jacuzzis overlooking the Aegean. Many suites are designed for honeymooners, with seclusion and stunning sunset views right from your terrace.

After your travels, Day 11 afternoon is for relaxation. Unwind by your infinity pool and take in the panorama – bright blue sea, volcanic islets, and the Cycladic architecture around you. In the early evening, head to a Santorini winery for a special wine tasting. Santorini has a 3,500-year wine history and produces excellent whites (Assyrtiko grape). Visit Santo Wines or Venetsanos Winery, perched on the rim of the caldera, and sample wines with local cheese as the sun begins to sink.

No romantic trip to Santorini is complete without watching its legendary sunset. Oia’s sunset is famous – you can join the crowd at Oia Castle for a dramatic view (go early for a good spot) or better yet, enjoy it in a more intimate setting: your winery tasting, a private balcony, or a sunset sail on a catamaran. As the sky turns fiery orange and pink, the moment is pure magic – indeed, Santorini’s sunsets are often called the most romantic and magical in the world. For dinner, reserve a table at Ambrosia in Oia (cozy terrace built into the cliff) or Athenian House in Imerovigli – both offer gourmet Greek cuisine with caldera views by night. Dine on fresh Greek salads, fava dips, grilled seafood or lamb, and toast with a local Vinsanto dessert wine to end the day on a sweet note.

Day 12 is yours to explore Santorini’s charms. Start with a leisurely morning in Oia, strolling marble-lined lanes before day-trippers arrive. Peek into art galleries and boutique shops, perhaps picking up a piece of local jewelry or art as a keepsake. Don’t miss the iconic photo spots – the blue-domed churches and the windmills. Consider walking part of the famous Fira-to-Oia hiking trail, even just a short section for unparalleled views (start from Imerovigli towards Oia in the cooler morning hours). By midday, head to one of Santorini’s unique beaches: Red Beach (dramatic red cliffs), Kamari or Perissa (black sand beaches with chic beach clubs). Enjoy a couples’ sunbed and refreshing swims in the Aegean. Many beach clubs (like Seaside by Notos in Perivolos) offer upscale beachside lunch – think grilled octopus, Santorinian tomato fritters, and Greek rosé wine under a cabana.

In the afternoon, you might visit Akrotiri Archaeological Site – the Pompeii of the Aegean – to marvel at Minoan ruins preserved in volcanic ash (if you both enjoy a bit of history and culture). Or take a guided walk in Pyrgos, a less touristy village inland with a maze of alleys climbing to a hilltop castle – Pyrgos is quiet and romantic, offering a glimpse of traditional island life and splendid views (it’s also known for lovely tavernas). As sunset nears, another unforgettable option is a private sunset catamaran cruise. These 5-hour cruises typically depart in late afternoon: you’ll sail around the caldera, stop for swimming in the hot springs by the volcano, and then enjoy a Greek dinner prepared on board. As the sun meets the horizon, you and your loved one can snuggle on deck with a glass of sparkling wine. Watching the sky’s colors reflected on the caldera from the water is truly the pinnacle of romance on the island. If you prefer land, catch the sunset in Oia again or from Santo Winery’s terrace.

For your final Day 13 in Santorini, soak up every last bit of ambiance. This could be a day of leisure and luxury. Many top hotels offer in-room breakfast – enjoy Greek yogurt with honey, pastries, and coffee on your balcony with that million-dollar view. Later, perhaps take a couples’ spa treatment in a cave spa suite (several hotels like Kirini or Andronis have exquisite spa facilities carved into the earth). If you’re up for more adventure, you could rent an ATV or car to explore the island’s far corners: visit the lighthouse at Faros for solitude, or the traditional village of Megalochori with its bell towers and vineyards. At some point, be sure to experience Santorini’s culinary scene: maybe a cooking class together (learn to make dolmades and tzatziki), or simply a long lunch in Ammoudi Bay – down the steps from Oia, this tiny port has tavernas where you can literally sit by the lapping sea and eat the freshest grilled fish.

As this is your last full day, time your activities to catch one more breathtaking sunset. A highly romantic idea: arrange a private dinner on your hotel terrace – many Santorini hotels will set up a candlelight dinner for two with a dedicated server, so you can dine in privacy with the caldera nightscape as your backdrop. Otherwise, venture to Metaxi Mas in Exo Gonia (raved for its authentic food and local vibe) for dinner away from the tourist scene, or Petra Restaurant at Canaves Oia Suites for an elegant finale. Under the twinkling stars, with the lights of Fira and Oia glowing along the caldera rim, share your favorite moments of the trip. Santorini’s picturesque views and romantic vibes have made it one of the top picks for newlyweds worldwide – and now you know why.

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Day 14: Departure – Until We Meet Again, Europe

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Wake up to your final morning in paradise. If time allows, savor a last walk through the quiet morning streets of Santorini or a farewell dip in your plunge pool. You’ll then take a flight from Santorini to your gateway city (Athens or another European hub) for your international flight home. As you depart, you carry with you the memories of gondola serenades in Venice, vineyard sunsets in Tuscany, the scent of lemon blossoms on the Amalfi Coast, and Santorini’s golden sunsets.

This two-week journey, rich in romance and crafted for a relaxed pace, has given you a taste of Europe’s most enchanting experiences.

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Here’s to a lifetime of adventures together. May the romance of this honeymoon – from Alpine peaks to Aegean seas – linger in your hearts forever.

Bon voyage and congratulations!

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