Romantic holiday ideas: Top 10 Valentine's Day destinations in the world

4 TAJ MAHAL, AGRA, INDIA

Predictable, yes, but never was a more romantic building created than the Taj Mahal, commissioned by Shah Jehan in memory of his wife Mumtaz. In his moment of grief, the shah created something of eternal beauty. Windows are carved with geometric designs, flowers in marble blossom from wall panels, and everywhere lapis lazuli, onyx, jasper and gold glitters. If you don't fall to your knees and propose, you have a heart of stone. See tajmahal.gov.in

5 CHILLON CASTLE, MONTREUX, SWITZERLAND

Squatting like the epitome of medieval chivalry on a rock at the edge of Lake Geneva, Chillon Castle is the pick for those taking a saccharine view of love. Snowy mountains rear in the background, swans paddle and the gorgeous lakeshore walk to the castle from Montreux is a flower-draped gambol. The chateau was celebrated by many Romantic writers, including the ultimate ladies' man, Lord Byron. See chillon.ch

6 CHARLES BRIDGE, PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC

This 15th-century bridge over the Vltava River links medieval with baroque Prague, with views to melt the heart of history lovers. Some of the bridge's statues of saints (and particularly the crucifix of St John) are said to provide good luck if rubbed. Buskers add a musical background to your stroll, though for that intimate kiss you'd best get yourself here early in the morning before the crowds gather. See www.prague.eu

7 FERRIS WHEEL, VIENNA, AUSTRIA

For a bit of loving the old-fashioned way, settle into a red cabin on this Ferris wheel and admire the twinkling lights of Vienna. If you're an advance planner, you can even book champagne and canapes or a four-course meal as you circumnavigate; if all goes well, weddings are also held in cabins. A Ferris wheel has stood here since 1897, and the surrounding Prater amusement park provides plenty of turn-of-the-century nostalgia. See wienerriesenrad.com

8 ALHAMBRA, GRANADA, SPAIN

If you take the Romantic view that love is always tinged with sadness and transience, the scenery-soaked battlements of this sprawling palace complex are the place for you. They were the scene of the "Moor's last sigh" as Granada's Islamic rulers were bundled out of Spain forever. The Alhambra's fountain-splashed courtyards are impossibly beautiful, and the adjacent gardens feature trickling water, roses and more fine views. See granadatur.com

9 GRAND CENTRAL, NEW YORK, US

Who would imagine a train station could be romantic? Quite a few people, to judge from the number of proposals seen beneath the constellation-decorated, vaulted ceiling of the magnificent main concourse. Passing crowds often stop to applaud. You can repair afterwards to a Belgian chocolate shop or upmarket oyster-and-champagne bar for celebratory nibbles as trains shunt, bringing another whole level to industrial chic. See grandcentralterminal.com

10 TREVI FOUNTAIN, ROME, ITALY

A trio of classic movies – Three Coins in the Fountain, Roman Holiday and La Dolce Vita – sealed the reputation of this magnificently baroque fountain as the place to steal a kiss. The Trevi, as large as a building, recently emerged from a renovation and is looking terrific. Chuck in a coin and it's said you'll return, though no promises whether it will be with the same person. See turismoroma.it

Brian Johnston has travelled as a guest of tourist offices or tour companies in many of these destinations.