The Most Romantic Places to Live
While Valentine’s Day rolls around once every twelve months, we like to believe that home is where the heart is 365 days a year. Sure, you can book an expensive dinner reservation, invest a small fortune in a bouquet of roses, or purchase a sparkler at the jewelry store, but being romantic isn’t so much about what you do as it is where you are. When you live in the right city, enchantment seems to follow you with every footstep. So, while there’s nothing wrong with celebrating February 14 in any location, consider how fantastic it would be to live in one of the most romantic places in the world year-round.
New York City
Despite the fast pace, the Big Apple has been highlighted in rom-coms for decades, so we’ve been conditioned to believe that it’s a city where you can find romance in the midst of the concrete jungle. While taking a carriage ride through Central Park may be considered more of a special occasion activity, when living in New York, you’ve got access to several other parks, such as the Riverside Park on the Upper West Side (You’ve Got Mail.) Pack a picnic, lay on a blanket under a shady tree, take a leisurely stroll hand-in-hand — or a run if you’re a duo who likes to stay fit together.
Whether you’re single or attached, channel your inner-Carrie Bradshaw by living in a luxe apartment in Greenwich Village, the same neighborhood where the famed Sex and the City character traipsed around with her gal pals. From An Affair to Remember to Sleepless in Seattle, the Empire State Building is an iconic symbol of two people being at the right place at the right time. Perhaps, this is why the notorious landmark holds a contest for couples each year before Valentine’s Day. The lucky pairs who are selected get a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to get hitched on the 86th-floor observation deck on the 14th.
Chicago
Chicagoans tend to complain about the long, harsh winters but make no mistake: It still tops the list as one of the most romantic places to live. Let’s talk about that weather for a second. Thankfully, the Windy City has a vast array of luxury apartments with amenities such as a heated indoor swimming pools, fitness centers, clubrooms, and dog parks to keep you and your partner from getting cabin fever. There’s also nothing wrong with cozying up in your apartment with a fire while taking in the lake views from your couch. Chicago is also known for its booming restaurant scene, so there are plenty of places you can go for a romantic dinner for two or a night out with your friends if you’re single and looking to mingle. Illinois is truly a cultural melting pot, which makes it an intriguing and romantic place to visit and live.
Of course, the city is at its best when the temps are more favorable, a period when locals flock to the lively riverfront to hang out at the trendy eateries or watering holes after work. We can’t mention Chicago without addressing its beautiful lakefront. From biking and boating to moonlit strolls on a balmy July night, summer in the city can’t be beaten.
San Francisco
With its breathtaking landscapes, iconic landmarks, and luxury living conditions, the City by the Bay is ripe for romance. Between the views and the climate, it’s a desirable place for couples to lace up their hiking boots and head to a more rural location such as the Golden Gate National Recreation area — especially Lands End, hailed as a notorious hotspot for couples for decades. Take in the wildlife and views of the coast, the enchanting ruins of the Sutro Baths, and mysterious old shipwrecks.
On the topic of stunning views, head across the iconic Bay Bridge to catch the best skyline views of the Bay Area from Treasure Island. If you want to go more off the beaten path, head to San Francisco’s historic Presidio, an exceptional 1,500-acre national park at the Golden Gate. Take a leisurely sojourn on Lover’s Lane while taking in the sunset from Baker Beach. Wedding bells in your future? Consider saying “I do” at one of the most popular ceremony spots in town: The Palace of Fine Arts. From spewing fountains, lush greenery, and the exemplary rotunda, you’ll feel as though you stepped into a Jane Austin novel. There's lots to do when you choose to live in California!
London
Between the rich history, royal landmarks, gorgeous green spaces, and thriving restaurant and nightlife scene, London even tops cities like Paris when it comes to romance. There’s an exhaustive list of reasons why this international favorite can be considered romantic, but a few notable reasons include the stretch of Grand Canal in North West London known as “little Venice,” walking over the commanding London Bridge, horseback riding through Hyde Park, watching the sunset with a glass of bubbly from the 31st floor of the Shard (London’s tallest building), perusing original manuscripts from famous romantic poet John Keats at his home, and scoring the front row double bed at the oldest working cinema in the country on Portobello Road in Notting Hill. Thanks to a vast selection of luxury apartments, you can live like a King and Queen in the United Kingdom — no royal duties required.
Madrid
The third-largest city in Europe, Madrid is pulsating with vibrant energy, yet this is not to say it isn’t a destination where you can’t feel as though you’re in your own world, too. As an added bonus, Madrid is also an affordable city, which makes it a desirable place to live — especially students who are studying abroad.
The city is best explored by foot, so take a stroll to Puerta del Sol and Plaza Mayor, two major hubs where you’ll find everything from shops to restaurants. The real jewels, however, can be found on the narrow side streets. Here, you’ll find numerous tapas bars, markets, and lush parks. Make a stop at the San Miguel Market so you can assemble a delectable picnic comprised of local cheeses, olives, seafood, desserts, and drinks. Enjoy your feast in the sprawling 350-acre Retiro Park — one of the city's largest green spaces. While it was originally designed as a retreat for royalty back in the day, now everyone can enjoy its gardens or rent a rowboat for a romantic sail at Estanque del Retiro, a man-made lake located on the premises.
Nothing is more romantic than flamenco, Spain’s traditional dance – especially when you see it performed live. Madrid is home to several venues where you can take in a show featuring dancers, singers, and musicians. Take a look at our Spanish properties.
Do you still have wanderlust? Check out these additional blog posts!
• See what it’s like to live in Salt Lake City.
• Learn about the best eats in Denver’s LoHi neighborhood.
• Is the coast calling? Check out where to live in the Orange County area.
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