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There’s something undeniably magical about sailing into the horizon with the person you love, especially when that journey is set against the backdrop of Europe’s most romantic island getaways. For couples, a sailing holiday is the perfect way to escape the everyday and discover hidden beaches, intimate dinners, and the thrill of exploration. A private yacht offers the ultimate romantic indulgence. With 2025 upon us, we’ve carefully curated a list of the best romantic island getaways in Europe, each destination handpicked for its unique charm, luxurious offerings, and unforgettable sailing routes.
Whether you’re planning a honeymoon, celebrating an anniversary, or simply craving time away with someone special, these ten islands promise dreamlike views, secluded coves, and sunsets that feel straight out of a painting. From the rugged cliffs of Santorini to the wild beaches of Corsica, every moment is elevated when experienced from the deck of your own private yacht.
The 10 Most Romantic Island Getaways in Europe (2025)
- Rhodes, Greece
- Canary Islands, Spain
- Hvar, Croatia
- Sardinia, Italy
- Santorini, Corsica
- Corsica, France
- Ibiza, Spain
- Capo D’Orlando, Italy
- Mallorca, Spain
- Madeira, Portugal
Rhodes, Greece
One of the top romantic island getaways in Europe is Rhodes, which combines historical allure with natural beauty in a way few destinations can. For couples, it’s a captivating starting point, offering both cultural depth and serene sailing routes. Begin your romantic adventure by wandering the medieval Old Town, where the cobblestone Street of the Knights sets the scene for timeless strolls. As the sun begins to set, sail toward Lindos, where whitewashed buildings cling to hillsides above turquoise waters. Here, quiet anchorages await, far from the crowds. The Aegean Sea becomes your playground with peaceful, intimate and rich with history.
Canary Islands, Spain
For couples who crave adventure paired with exotic beauty, the Canary Islands offer an exhilarating alternative to the traditional romantic getaway. With their volcanic terrain, black sand beaches, and subtropical climate, these Spanish isles feel worlds away from the mainland. Lanzarote makes the perfect base, where you can charter a yacht and set sail toward Gran Canaria and Tenerife. Along the way, you’ll find dramatic coastlines, desert landscapes, and stargazing opportunities that rival any planetarium. Whether you’re whale watching at sunrise or dining alfresco as the sky turns violet, every day here feels like an extraordinary escape.
Hvar, Croatia
Hvar has long been known for its glamour, but there’s more to this Croatian jewel than luxury hotels and buzzing beach clubs. Beneath the polished surface lies a romantic heart, perfect for couples seeking both indulgence and intimacy. Sip local wines as the sun sets behind Renaissance rooftops. Swim in crystalline waters beside pine-covered coves. Then, as the evening draws in, retreat to your yacht and sail to the nearby Pakleni Islands where solitude and serenity reign. It’s a sophisticated escape for lovers who appreciate both fine taste and unspoiled nature.
Stroll the vibrant city of Hvar
Sardinia – Portisco, Italy
Another top romantic islands getaway in Europe is the wild, raw, and utterly beautiful Sardinia . With windswept shores and water that shimmers in impossible shades of blue, it’s an island that seems made for sailing. Charter a yacht from Portisco and explore the La Maddalena archipelago, where uninhabited islands and pink sand beaches offer complete seclusion. Visit Porto Cervo if you crave a splash of glamour, or anchor in one of the many untouched coves for a candlelit dinner on deck. With its unique blend of rustic charm and luxury living, Sardinia invites you to fall in love again with the island, with the sea, and with each other.
Clear waters and quiet spots for romance
Santorini, Greece
No romantic island getaway in Europe would be complete without Santorini. The island where every corner feels crafted for a postcard. Its whitewashed villages, perched along the dramatic caldera, create a dreamlike setting that feels almost too beautiful to be real. From clifftop dinners in Oia to quiet moments on its unique black sand beaches, romance is woven into every detail. Sailing around Santorini takes the experience even further by anchoring just offshore, watching the sun melt into the horizon as the island is bathed in hues of orange and pink. For an even more unforgettable escape, pair your visit with a cruise through the Cyclades and let every stop along the way deepen the sense of wonder and connection.
Famous sunsets and charming white buildings
Corsica, France
Tucked between France and Italy, Corsica feels like a secret whispered across the Mediterranean. Its rugged coastlines and quiet villages make it a favorite for couples who long for authenticity and tranquility. Charter a yacht and drop anchor near Bonifacio, where limestone cliffs tower above translucent waters. From there, explore wild and remote beaches like Ostriconi or sail to Plage de Tamarone, where coastal hikes reveal panoramic views and shared moments. The Lavezzi Isles, only accessible by boat, offer a true castaway fantasy. In Corsica, time slows down, flavors linger, and love feels effortlessly at home.
Wild nature and peaceful hidden bays
Ibiza – Sant Antoni de Portmany, Spain
Known for its world-renowned nightlife, Ibiza might not strike everyone as a romantic island getaway but Sant Antoni de Portmany shows another side of the island. During the day, discover peaceful beaches like Cala Saladeta, where soft waves and warm sands set the tone for total relaxation. As evening falls, the town comes alive with sunset bars and rooftop lounges that pulse with music and laughter. It’s the perfect destination for couples who like a little rhythm with their romance. For a quieter experience, sail to nearby Formentera, where bohemian charm and unspoiled beaches await.
Relaxing beaches beyond the party scene
Capo d’Orlando, Italy
If your idea of romance includes peaceful afternoons and endless sea views then your romantic island getaways in Europe would be Capo d’Orlando. Life here moves slowly, and that’s the point. Businesses shut down for siesta, encouraging visitors to embrace rest, long lunches, and lazy sails. Climb Monte della Madonna for panoramic vistas, or dine in a seaside trattoria as waves lap the shore. From Capo d’Orlando, set sail to the Aeolian Islands, a string of volcanic isles with dramatic coastlines and natural hot springs. It’s the kind of escape where every moment feels designed for closeness and connection.
Cozy coastlines and authentic Italian charm
Mallorca, Spain
New for 2025, Mallorca earns its spot as a romantic island getaway in Europe thanks to its golden beaches, crystal coves, and dynamic culture. The east coast in particular is perfect for couples to sail past dramatic cliffs, find hidden gems like Caló des Moro, and drop anchor in peaceful bays. After a morning swim, head ashore for a cliffside lunch overlooking the Mediterranean, or explore the island’s mysterious caves. From lively harbor towns to quiet fishing villages, Mallorca blends adventure and intimacy in equal measure.
A mix of fun cities and calm beaches
Madeira, Portugal
The final romantic island getaway is Madeira, Portugal’s Atlantic jewel. It might not be the most obvious honeymoon destination but that’s what makes it so special. Towering cliffs, lush gardens, and black sand beaches give the island an otherworldly appeal. Couples can enjoy sunset dolphin cruises, explore ancient Levada walking paths through the forest, or sip wine in a cozy seaside café. A sailing holiday here begins in Funchal and unfolds along the southern coast, where quiet anchorages and panoramic views promise a romantic escape unlike any other.
Green cliffs and beautiful gardens to explore
Why a Private Yacht Charter Makes the Perfect Romantic Holiday
There’s a reason why more and more couples are choosing private yacht charters for their special getaways. It’s not just about luxury, it’s about freedom. On a yacht, you decide the rhythm of your day, from morning swims in glassy bays to spontaneous island-hopping adventures. There’s no need to rush, no crowds to navigate, and no rigid schedules. Instead, it’s just the two of you, discovering Europe’s romantic island getaways with the most beautiful coastlines at your own pace. Hidden beaches, secret coves, and unforgettable sunsets are yours for the taking. With Borrow A Boat, you can choose between skippered or bareboat options, depending on your sailing experience and style. Whatever you choose, the journey becomes just as special as the destination.
Your 2025 Romantic Island Getaway Awaits
The top romantic island getaways in Europe are calling offering a unique version of romance, whether it’s through food, culture, adventure, or sheer natural beauty. Every couple will find their own story waiting to be written here, and with Borrow A Boat, planning that story is easier than ever. From helping you select the perfect yacht to curating your sailing itinerary, we’re here to ensure your trip is seamless, luxurious, and unforgettable.
Let 2025 be the year you set sail together into adventure, into serenity, and into each other’s arms.
Ready for a romantic getaway? Discover romantic island getaways in Europe with Borrow A Boat and find your ideal yacht for an unforgettable experience!