The decision to propose is one of the most significant moments in a couple’s relationship, and choosing the right location can make it even more memorable.
Europe, known for some of the world’s most beautiful cities, is a popular choice for those looking to pop the question.
Paris Tickets & Tours analyzed Instagram hashtags related to proposals to determine the 15 most popular European cities for engagement destinations.
It is important to note that this list was narrowed down to include only European capital cities with the most Instagram engagement posts and hashtags, which means some romantic cities like Venice or Florence were not considered, as they are not capitals.
Nevertheless, these featured cities are considered “hot spots” for proposals.
1: Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon, Portugal, surprisingly secured the top spot on Paris Tickets & Tours’ list of most popular proposal destinations in Europe, even though it is only the 23rd most visited city in Europe, with 3.6 million annual visitors.
The city garnered a remarkable total hashtag volume of 1,049,944 related to proposals on Instagram. Lisbon, often referred to as the City of Seven Hills, offers numerous picturesque views that are ideal for soon-to-be engaged couples.
Some of the most beautiful locations within Lisbon recommended for proposals include the stunning Pena Palace, Cabo da Roca, and Monserrate Palace. Its high ranking suggests a strong social media presence for romantic moments, making it a prime choice.
2: London, England
London, England, holds the second position on the list, demonstrating its immense popularity as a proposal destination in Europe.
The British capital recorded a total hashtag volume of 1,026,528 related to proposals, making it one of the top choices based on social media engagement.
Interestingly, London is also the most visited European city, attracting 19.6 million visitors annually, which likely contributes to its high ranking for proposals.
Its consistent presence as a major global hub and a frequently visited city means many romantic moments, including proposals, are captured and shared from its iconic locations, as reflected in the Instagram analysis.
3: Paris, France
Paris, France, often dubbed the “City of Love,” ranks third on this list, with a total hashtag volume of 1,011,970.
While its third-place standing might surprise some, considering its romantic reputation, it still boasts a significant number of proposal-related hashtags.
Paris earned its “City of Love” moniker during the Romantic Era, which began there at the end of the 18th century, profoundly influencing art, particularly poetry.
Iconic new buildings like the Eiffel Tower and the Opera Garnier were constructed during this period, and centuries later, the city’s romantic allure endures. Paris remains a premier destination for honeymoons and romantic getaways in Europe.
4: Berlin, Germany
Berlin, Germany, secured the fourth position among Europe’s most popular proposal cities, accumulating a total hashtag volume of 549,300.
As a European capital city, Berlin’s inclusion on this list aligns with the methodology used by Paris Tickets & Tours, which focused on capital cities with significant Instagram engagement related to proposals.
This indicates that despite its historical significance and modern appeal, Berlin is also a notable destination for romantic milestones.
Its substantial hashtag volume highlights its unexpected popularity as a “hot spot” for popping the question, reinforcing its status as a city where many couples choose to begin their engagement journey.
5: Andorra La Vella, Andorra
Andorra La Vella, the capital of Andorra, a very small country in Europe, ranks fifth with a total hashtag volume of 358,409.
Many Americans may not be familiar with Andorra La Vella, as Andorra is one of the smallest countries globally, approximately 181 square miles, and the 16th smallest country in the world.
One appealing aspect of Andorra, making it suitable for a romantic getaway or vacation, is its duty-free shopping.
The country’s unique tax status means it doesn’t pay taxes to surrounding European countries, making it an excellent place to purchase normally high-taxed goods, perhaps even a last-minute wedding ring.
6: Vienna, Austria
Vienna, Austria, holds the sixth spot on the list of top European proposal cities, demonstrating its appeal based on social media trends.
The city registered a total hashtag volume of 318,054 for proposal-related posts on Instagram. As one of the European capital cities considered in the Paris Tickets & Tours analysis, Vienna’s high ranking reflects its significant online presence regarding romantic engagements.
Vienna’s historical charm, imperial palaces, and cultural richness contribute to its status as a desirable location for couples to get engaged, making it a noteworthy “hot spot”.
7: Madrid, Spain
Madrid, Spain, is positioned seventh on the list, accumulating a total hashtag volume of 248,426 for proposal-related hashtags on Instagram.
This ranking indicates that Spain’s capital is a popular choice for couples looking to make their engagement official, as determined by the analysis of social media engagement.
The study specifically focused on European capital cities, highlighting Madrid’s prominence within this category.
Its vibrant culture, beautiful architecture, and lively atmosphere likely contribute to its appeal as a romantic destination.
Madrid’s substantial hashtag volume solidifies its place as one of the significant “hot spots” for proposals across Europe.
8: Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam, Netherlands, ranks eighth among the most popular European cities for proposals, showing a strong presence in social media related to engagements.
The city recorded a total hashtag volume of 189,113 on Instagram for proposal-related posts. As a capital city, Amsterdam’s inclusion on this list is a direct result of the methodology employed by Paris Tickets & Tours, which analyzed Instagram engagement for proposals in European capitals.
Its unique canals, historic buildings, and charming atmosphere likely make it a picturesque and memorable setting for popping the question. The high hashtag volume confirms Amsterdam’s status as a favored “hot spot” for proposals.
9: Oslo, Norway
Oslo, Norway, takes the ninth position on the list of European cities popular for proposals, based on social media analysis.
The city garnered a total hashtag volume of 146,535 related to proposals on Instagram. This ranking signifies Oslo’s growing appeal as a romantic destination for engagement.
As a European capital city, Oslo met the criteria for inclusion in the Paris Tickets & Tours study, which focused on cities with high Instagram engagement.
While not traditionally associated with romance as much as other cities on the list, its natural beauty, modern architecture, and waterfront views likely provide unique and memorable backdrops for proposals, contributing to its “hot spot” status.
10: Warsaw, Poland
Warsaw, Poland, is the tenth most popular European city for proposals, according to the Instagram hashtag analysis.
The city amassed a total hashtag volume of 105,516 for proposal-related content. Warsaw’s inclusion on this list highlights its increasing recognition as a destination for romantic milestones, particularly among those sharing their experiences on social media.
As a European capital, it fit the specific criteria of the Paris Tickets & Tours study, which prioritized cities with high Instagram engagement related to proposals.
This demonstrates that Warsaw, with its rich history and rebuilt charm, is becoming a noteworthy “hot spot” for couples looking to get engaged.
11: Helsinki, Finland
Helsinki, Finland, secured the eleventh spot on the list of most popular European cities for proposals, based on social media engagement.
The Finnish capital recorded a total hashtag volume of 86,058 for proposal-related posts on Instagram. Its presence on this list reflects its appeal as a unique and perhaps less conventional romantic destination for engagements.
The methodology employed by Paris Tickets & Tours specifically focused on European capital cities with significant Instagram engagement, validating Helsinki’s position.
Its modern design, proximity to nature, and waterfront settings likely offer memorable backdrops for proposals, contributing to its “hot spot” status.
12: Rome, Italy
Rome, Italy, holds the twelfth position on the list, despite Italy being mentioned as having other potentially romantic cities not considered due to the capital-only focus.
Rome recorded a total hashtag volume of 80,167 for proposal-related hashtags on Instagram. It is one of the cities, alongside Venice and Florence, that are widely considered among Europe’s most romantic destinations.
As a capital city, Rome’s ancient ruins, iconic landmarks, and vibrant atmosphere continue to make it a popular choice for romantic gestures, including proposals, as evidenced by its substantial social media engagement for this momentous occasion.
13: Budapest, Hungary
Budapest, Hungary, ranks thirteenth among the most popular European cities for proposals, according to the Instagram hashtag analysis.
The city garnered a total hashtag volume of 63,527 related to proposals on the platform. As a European capital, Budapest’s inclusion in this study underscores its growing prominence as a romantic destination for engagements.
The study specifically focused on capital cities with high Instagram engagement for proposals, highlighting Budapest’s appeal.
Its stunning architecture, thermal baths, and scenic Danube River views likely contribute to its popularity, making it a “hot spot” for couples seeking a memorable backdrop for their proposal.
14: Prague, Czech Republic
Prague, Czech Republic, holds the fourteenth position on the list of European cities favored for proposals, based on social media insights.
The city accumulated a total hashtag volume of 46,667 for proposal-related hashtags on Instagram. As one of the European capital cities analyzed by Paris Tickets & Tours, Prague’s ranking indicates its significant appeal for romantic gestures.
Its fairy-tale architecture, historic bridges, and charming Old Town Square likely create an enchanting atmosphere for proposals.
Despite a lower hashtag volume compared to the top cities, Prague’s consistent appearance in romantic travel considerations means it remains a noteworthy “hot spot” for engagements.
15: Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh, Scotland, rounds out the list at fifteenth place among Europe’s most popular proposal cities, based on social media engagement.
The Scottish capital registered a total hashtag volume of 36,580 for proposal-related posts on Instagram.
Its inclusion highlights its distinct charm and romantic allure as a destination for popping the question.
As a European capital, Edinburgh met the criteria for the study by Paris Tickets & Tours, which focused on cities with high Instagram engagement for proposals.
Its historic castle, cobbled streets, and dramatic landscapes offer unique and memorable backdrops for a proposal, cementing its place as a “hot spot” on this list.
Alicia Richards