If you are planning to whisk a loved one off on a romantic weekend break, you might have dismissed Paris, Rome or Venice already as perhaps too cliched and obvious. But these cities are famously romantic for good reason, so before you start researching the 'new' Paris or the new Rome, why not try the originals?

If you are trying to impress a new love, or reigniting a spark with an exiting partner, or simply going on a weekend break for a special occasion or treat, you will not be disappointed with these famous destinations.

Romantic weekend breaks

So you are looking for a weekend break filled with unforgettable romantic moments? How about the city of love known as Paris - romance literally hangs in the atmosphere here, full of intimate, candle-lit cafes and bistro's, it truly is a magical place. The key to a relaxed and romantic weekend break is to not cram too much in, and try and get through every sight as you would if you had a week - you don't want to be too exhausted to enjoy it. Choose an area of Paris to base yourself in, such as the latin quarter, and explore your immediate surroundings.

If the thought of the crowded streets of Venice puts you off slightly, and they can be a bit overwhelming as around 50,000 people converge daily in the centre during peak periods, remember there is another way to travel - the famous canals. What could be more romantic and relaxing than floating and drifting around on a boat in the middle of the day with your loved one? However, don't take a touristy gondola, opt for a vaporetto - the Italian waterborne version of public bus, or even hire your own for around 17 Euros.

Staying in Italy, its capital Rome is the official rival to Venice as the most romantic place to sit and sip an espresso with your beloved. Everybody who visits this bustling city falls in love with it, and they probably fall in love with each other a little bit more. Life in the pavement cafes is like theatre, as you watch the Italian's practice 'la bella figura' and of course Rome is home to famous, jaw-dropping landmarks such as the Colosseum. As weekend breaks go, it's one of the most exciting and stimulating.

Don't Discount Old Favourites

So you may be keen to point out you 'went there years before anybody else discovered it' but if you are looking for a truly romantic destination for your weekend break, as always, the old ones are the best. Krakow might be cool, and Dubai full of decadent extravagance, but for plain old fashioned romance look no further than these tried-and-tested three.