8 Historic Routes Made for Lovers of Romance and Ruins
Some roads do more than connect destinations, they transport you through time. These historic routes are lined with ancient ruins, timeless towns, and breathtaking landscapes that stir the soul. For couples who crave romance steeped in history, these eight journeys offer the perfect mix of scenic wonder and cultural depth. From medieval castles to Incan terraces, each path promises memorable moments and stories worth retelling. Ready to fall in love with history, and each other?
The Romantic Road, Germany
Germany’s Romantic Road takes you through a storybook world of half-timbered towns, Gothic spires, and hilltop castles. This scenic route connects Würzburg to Füssen, with unforgettable stops like Rothenburg and Neuschwanstein Castle. Couples will find candlelit dinners, charming inns, and peaceful countryside views perfect for hand-in-hand strolls. Along the way, explore historic markets, walled cities, and vineyards. It’s the ultimate blend of Old World romance and cultural immersion.
Amalfi Coast Drive, Italy
This dramatic coastal road hugs Italy’s cliffs, revealing pastel villages, Roman ruins, and sea views that ignite romance. From Sorrento to Salerno, you’ll find quiet piazzas, ancient churches, and fragrant lemon groves. Towns like Ravello and Positano offer timeless charm and historic beauty. The Amalfi Coast is ideal for couples who love scenic drives with a dash of drama and history. Stop often, sip espresso, and watch sunsets that linger like the stories behind the stones.
King’s Highway, Jordan
This ancient trade route weaves through deserts, castles, and timeless landscapes. Couples can explore Petra’s rose-red ruins, visit Crusader forts, and marvel at Madaba’s mosaics. The King’s Highway feels both mystical and raw, making it perfect for lovers of adventure and history. Along the way, you’ll find Bedouin hospitality, quiet canyons, and sacred sites that speak to the soul. It’s a journey through history, love, and the breathtaking silence of the Jordanian wild.
Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland
Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way stretches for over 1,500 miles of windswept cliffs, medieval ruins, and charming coastal towns. Lovers can explore abbeys, castles, and ring forts while basking in scenic seascapes and Gaelic folklore. Stay in historic inns, enjoy fireside pub meals, and share misty sunrises over the ocean. The road reveals a romantic and rugged Ireland, perfect for couples craving connection with each other and with the haunting beauty of the Emerald Isle.
Sacred Valley Trail, Peru
Before reaching Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley leads couples through the heart of Incan heritage. Between Cusco and Ollantaytambo, explore terraced hillsides, ancient temples, and colorful markets. The scenery is breathtaking, the culture rich with meaning. Whether you walk, ride, or drive, every step brings you closer to Peru’s mystical past. Together, discover sacred sites, colonial towns, and quiet moments under Andean skies. It’s a journey of awe, love, and shared wonder.
Route of the Castles, Spain
Central Spain is dotted with medieval castles, and the Route of the Castles brings them to life. Couples will love wandering stone keeps, Moorish towers, and ancient villages straight from a knight’s tale. In Castilla-La Mancha, time slows as sunsets bathe the plains in gold. Enjoy tapas in historic towns and climb castle walls for sweeping views. This route mixes romance, imagination, and epic scenery, perfect for lovers who dream of timeless escapes and royal backdrops.
Lycian Way, Turkey
Turkey’s Lycian Way is a coastal route filled with ancient tombs, crumbling amphitheaters, and turquoise waters. Hiking it is a romantic escape into history and nature. Couples can picnic by ruined cities, swim in hidden coves, and watch sunsets from mountain ridges. The trail connects quiet villages with stunning views, offering a peaceful and culturally rich journey. For those drawn to ruins and romance, the Lycian Way delivers timeless beauty with every step.
Camino de Santiago, Spain
More than a pilgrimage, the Camino de Santiago is a soulful trek through northern Spain. Along Roman roads and medieval bridges, couples discover quiet towns, stone chapels, and the joy of slow travel. Sharing the path strengthens connection, as each day brings new views and reflections. Whether you walk a section or complete the whole trail, the Camino offers spiritual and romantic rewards. It’s a journey about presence, partnership, and the beauty of walking history together.
