Romantic road-trips favoured by Brits in February

St Valentine’s Day is fast approaching and it looks like Brits are getting into the spirit, with loved-up couples hitting the road for romantic weekend breaks. Car hire comparison site Carhiremarket.com has seen an increase in bookings for smaller cars in February, particularly two-seater vehicles, for destinations including Italy, France and Spain.

If men are looking to impress their Valentine, then opting for a small car looks to be a great option too, as recent research from Carhiremarket revealed that women are more impressed if their dates drive small, cheeky cars rather than gas guzzling four by fours or flashy Bentleys.

Car hire can be booked just 48 hours before the 14th February for destinations abroad, so to provide inspiration for those yet to book a break away, Carhiremarket has identified three top romantic road-trips for a loved-up pair this Valentine’s:

1 The Ligurian Coast, Northern Italy

Liguria’s Riviera di Ponente ("of the setting sun") stretches from Genoa in the west to the Riviera di Levante ("of the rising sun") lying to the east near the French border, offering couples a chance to take in some of the most beautiful scenery in Italy. With wooded mountains that tumble down to the Mediterranean alongside charming fishing ports, rugged bays and sandy coves, this really is a lover’s paradise.

2 Florence, Italy

Often overshadowed by Venice, Florence could be a gem missed by many. With a multitude of monuments, churches and historic buildings, including ‘The Duomo’ (the Domed Cathedral), it is the perfect getaway for those with a passion for art and history. Drivers can cross the Santa Trìnita bridge over the famous River Arno, which also cuts through the old part of the city. Only a short drive from Florence airport, this charming city is an accessible and convenient location.

3 Waterland, The Netherlands

Located to the north of Amsterdam, Waterland is ideal for couples looking to escape the typical tourist hotspots of the Netherlands. Peace and quiet is the order of the day with flat green pastures, canals, old farmhouses and serene 17th century villages showcasing cobbled pavements and tree-lined streets. The canal-side pathways also play host to pretty, pastel-coloured lakeside houses and churches, ticking all the boxes for romance this February.

For more information on the best value car hire visit carhiremarket.com.