Paris is generally the number 1 destination for those looking for a romantic place to take the one they love, however there are plenty more European cities that offer romantic evening walks, luxury accommodation and a beautiful landscape. Barcelona is an ideal location for a mini-break with a wealth of history, striking architecture and rambling cobbled streets perfect for exploring with a new love of your life or your longtime partner.

Anytime of the year is good for visiting this area of Spain as the weather is warm most of the time, however if you are a sun-worshipper then the hottest months are July and August although many establishments actually close during August and locals take their holidays at this time to get away from the heat. If you prefer a time when the city isn't so crowded but everywhere is open then either before or after the peak summer months, in May or October are best.

The first thing to consider is how to get from the airport to your selected hotel or apartment. It's not particularly romantic if you have to struggle onto a crowded bus with your luggage, especially if you are trying to impress a new girlfriend! A taxi is a much better way to arrive in style at your accommodation and means you will arrive right at the door without any hassles. There is a taxi rank just outside the arrivals terminal and the city centre only a 30-40 minute drive away.

Holiday makers in Barcelona should make a visit to the magic fountains of Montjuic a priority as it is one of the most romantic locations in the city. The best time to see it is in the early evening as this is when they hold the light show which is a dazzling display of colours and lights played to music and water acrobatics. The music comprises of anything from opera or classical to rock and it's as if the water fountains are dancing to the music.

The choice of lodgings available in the city centre means you can book into a quaint guest house or really splash out on a luxury apartment, if you're only planning on staying for a few days then the centre is the best location as you are conveniently based for all the main attractions, sights, and entertainment. If you want privacy then apartments in Barcelona are best idea as they provide a homely atmosphere with all the mod cans supplied to make your stay one to remember.

Around the city are lots of stylish and chic restaurants that offer a romantic and charming setting where you can sit outside in the warm weather while feasting on local delights. The city's location next to the coast means you can find fresh lobster and seafood dishes at reasonable prices. Aubergine, grilled peppers, tomatoes and onion in olive oil and garlic, and sweet peppers are used in many Catalan dishes.

In the evening after a candlelit 5 course champagne dinner then take a stroll through the streets until you find the perfect place to stop off for a delicious cocktail or chilled glass of wine in any number of small bars with their own unique characters. El Born has a tree lined central area to sit and admire the views whilst enjoying the delights of its quaint shops and cafes, whilst the Gothic Quarter consists of narrow cobbled streets and tall historical buildings.

There are other ways to enjoy the city apart from walking, view it from another angle by taking a Golondrines boat tour and enjoy the scenery from the statue of Christopher Columbus up to Escullera. Or a horse-drawn carriage can be magical when taken with the right person.They depart from Portal de la Pau at the end of the Ramblas and take you on a leisurely meander up La Rambla. It's also possible to go night kayaking around Barcelona's shores and admire the starry sky in peace.