Why say it with flowers? In our mind, one of the best ways to show that special someone exactly how much they mean to you is by treating them to a special Valentine’s Day break. It’s more than just a present as it gives you both the opportunity to create lifelong memories together – and we think that’s worth a thousand petrol shop bouquets! A trip needn’t break the bank either – some of the world’s most romantic destinations are just a short flight from the UK. Here are our recommendations:

Paris

Ah, the City of Romance! Paris may be something of a cliché when it comes to love, but you really can’t fault the city when it does it so well. No trip to Paris would be complete without climbing (or taking the elevator) to the top of the Eiffel Tower, and we’d recommend trying to book a table at the romantic Jules Verne restaurant for Valentine’s Day itself. Here, you can experience the gourmet tasting menu with the sparkling lights of the city laid out below you. Finally, bring along a padlock and secure your love at la Pont de l’Archevêché, a symbol of good luck and longevity.

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Venice

There’s little more romantic than sipping Prosecco on a Gondola ride around the Bridge of Sighs while being serenaded by your very own gondolier. However, we think attempting to recreate the famous scene from Lady and the Tramp with the world-famous spaghetti and meatballs of Ca D’Oro alla Vedova should definitely be up there. Although ladies be warned, if your man sees himself as something of a Casanova, you may want to keep him away from nearby Do Spade, where it is said the legendary lover met his ladies.

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Verona

Fair Verona, is of course, the setting for Shakespeare’s famous tragedy – Romeo and Juliet. Follow in the footsteps of the star-crossed lovers by paying a visit to Juliet’s house and taking in the famous balcony. Whilst there, be sure to post your own love letter in the wall, or give the bronze statue of Juliet a rub for good luck in your own relationship. The small city is located close to some of Italy’s best vineyards, so is an excellent choice for wining and dining, with risotto and gnocchi among the best-known local specialties.

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Antwerp

If there’s a question that you’re hoping to pop sometime soon, you may wish to combine it with a visit to Antwerp. The Belgian city is famous for its diamonds and, top secret information, offers some of the most competitive prices in Europe. However, its beautifully cobbled streets, chocolate shops and attractions, such as Ruben’s House and the Cathedral of Our Lady, are just perfect for strolling arm-in-arm. Should you be looking for a place to propose, we’d highly recommend the two Michelin starred ‘t Zilte.

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Copenhagen

Copenhagen is often voted the happiest city in the world, and not to get all sentimental but we think happiness is pretty important in a relationship. Therefore, why not embrace the current trend for all things hygge and enjoy a romantic weekend in the Danish capital. Head to Thorvaldsen’s Museum to be struck by Cupid’s Arrow. The well-known art piece Cupid and Psyche sees Cupid waiting with his bow and arrow to ensure that you’ll be lucky in love. Finally, for your own fairy-tale ending head to the Little Mermaid statue for sunset – proof that the Danes really do excel at romance.

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To get us in the mood for romance, we’d love to hear the places where you popped the question. Share your engagement stories below or on Twitter.

Images by Dustin Gaffke, gckwolfeBoss TweedSpencer Wright, Beth and TravelingOtter via flickr.