Havana offers more than just the average romantic getaway activities. A trip to Cuba’s capital is like taking a journey through time. It’s architecture and experiences offer a glimpse into the past, while providing a healthy number of modern offerings too.

Cheap lobster dinners, dancing in the streets,  history oozing out of every crevice and more is what you’ll get from this tropical city.

If you’re looking for glamour and grit, look no further.

Here are some activities you should try with your special someone in the city of Havana:

– Experience the old days in a classic car 

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Havana has maintained some of the elements of their heyday. Among these elements are cars and architecture from the 50’s, a time when Cuba was known as the most glamorous of places.

You can ride in one of these vintage cars, through the streets of Old Havana. Tours are available too. A tour will take you to some of the most important spots in the city, with opportunities to eat, shop and have some classic Cuban cocktails while the wind blows through your hair.

– Enjoy the street music 

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You are undoubtedly in for a festive feeling when roaming the streets of Havana. Throughout the city you’ll find a variety of street musicians bringing the party to you. As you explore Havana, ensure that you stop and have a listen… and maybe an impromptu dance on the streets.

– Stroll along the Malecón

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A good view of the sunset always makes for the perfect backdrop on a relaxing stroll. The Havana Malecón is known for its beautiful sunsets.

The boardwalk and seawall was constructed in 1902. At the historical Malecón, you’ll find tourists and locals alike, and may even catch some performers livening up the mood. Take a stroll and take in the Havana vibes.

– Visit the Viñales Valley

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About 147km west of Havana is the Viñales Valley. A two and a half hour drive will get you there, so it’s recommended that you make a day out of the trip.

At the valley, you’ll experience a full day of activities including roaming the tobacco and sugar cane fields (and trying out the products), visiting caves, horse riding, and seeing some amazing views of mountains and lush greenery.

If you and your partner are lovers of nature,  there are many more experiences like this throughout Cuba. In fact, there are two natural World Heritage sites – Alejandro de Humboldt and Desembarco de Granma national parks.

– Indulge in the Cuban cuisine 

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The best way to experience a city is through it’s food! Try one or two of the restaurants and go for local favourites.

–  Visit the Museo de la Revolucion

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The Museum of the Revolution is in Old Havana. It was previously the presidential palace of presidents of Cuba through the years. At its completion in 1920, the buildings interior was decorated by Tiffany’s of New York, so you can be sure its stunning.

Inside you’ll find the Room of Mirros, which is a replica of the Room of Mirros in Versailles. You’ll also see some artifacts and exhibits featuring items from Castro’s regime.

Image: Pexels 

With winter lasting about seven months long, and the temperature averaging from just a few degrees below zero to just above zero, you wouldn’t think Lapland is a great destination for a romantic getaway. But, this couldn’t be further from the truth.

Lapland, Finland makes for an amazing romantic destination for couples. It boasts unmatched natural phenomena, blissful boarding options, and a variety of subarctic wilderness to marvel at.

The region also has a very small population, and isn’t packed with tourists. This means you won’t be in a crowd, and will have loads of private time with your significant other.

If this hasn’t sold you on Lapland, here are some romantic activities on offer that may win you over:

– Experience a night in a glass igloo village 

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The Kakslauttanen Glass Igloo Village is one-in-a-million. You’ll spend a night in a luxurious glass igloo, gazing up at the stars in style. What could be more romantic?

Staying toasty warm while watching the snow fall around you is a unique experience you’ll never forget.

– Watch the Northern Lights 

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One of the natural phenomena’s on many peoples bucket list is the Northern Lights. Not only is this phenomena incredible to marvel at, but it comes with its own folklore too. Some believe that the auroras have a favourable effect on fertility.

There are safari’s you can join which take you on a hunt for the auroras on snowmobiles, an adrenaline rush ending in a spectacular show from mother nature. It can’t get much better than that.

– Relax on a Reindeer Safari 

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Sit in a traditional sleigh and get drawn across the snow-covered landscape by a caravan of reindeer. Snuggle up, have some snacks, and share a special moment with your partner as you experience a once in a life time ride.

 – Go ice swimming 

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Take the plunge! It’ll be a shock to your body like you’ve never felt before. What makes a romantic getaway more memorable than some new and exhilarating experiences?

– Visit a national park 

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Have some quiet relaxating time out in nature. There are guided hikes available; this is the perfect way to take in the fresh air and experience the wilderness that Lapland offers.

– Go cloudberry picking 

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Enjoy a nice stroll while you pick some berries to snack on! This is one of the sweeter activities offered in Lapland. You may have to do some scavenging, but it will be worth it.

Image: Unsplash 

Most couples look to tropical islands for the ideal romantic getaway. You wouldn’t be wrong, islands are amazing destinations for couples. However, cities make for magical escapes too… if you know where to look. Bruges in Belgium is one of the best cities for a romantic getaway.

The city is known for its cobbled streets and medieval buildings and offers many options for romantic activities.

Here are some of the best things to do In Bruges.

– Couple’s Boat Tour along the canals 

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Ride along the canal side-by-side with swans and see the city from a different perspective. This is one of the most romantic things to do in the city. It’ll be like a scene from a movie.

– Indulge in Belgian Chocolates 

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As we all know, Belgium is known for its chocolates. For this reason, there is an abundance of chocolate shops to satisfy your every need. Stop by at one…or ten of these shops and get your fill of hot chocolate, waffles, and much more. After all, chocolate is the way we show love!

– Cross the Meestraat Bridge 

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This is known as the bridge for eternal love. The legend says that a young woman, Minna, died on this spot while trying to reunite with her lover. The story goes that if you cross the bridge with your partner, your love will be eternal. How could you pass up this opportunity to ensure a long-lasting love?

– Take a horse-drawn carriage through the city 

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It doesn’t get more “fairytale romance” than this! A relaxing ride on the cobble-stone roads, marvelling at the architecture and happily sitting side-by-side is a great way to spend the day.

– Have a date night at the Markt 

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The Markt is essentially the town square and, unlike the rest of the town which is asleep by 7pm, it stays lit up and lively until the early hours of the morning.

At The Markt you can get snacks, enjoy the vibe, climb up the belfry tower, or have a sit down meal at a fancy restaurant. If you’re there at Christmas time, you’ll find an ice-skating rink in the market square too.

– Have a picnic at Minnewater Park

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Take the stroll in the beautiful park and pack a picnic to enjoy on the lush green grass after your walk. Sit by the lake, known as The Lake of Love, and watch as the swans float by.

– Visit the Groeningemuseum

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At the museum you’ll see more than 600 years’ worth of Belgian and Flemish paintings. Immerse yourself in some culture and get some great photos.

Image: Pixabay