I'm planning on proposing in either Florence or Venice ...

Can anyone recommend a romantic spot in either city?

I've never been to either location - but I'm told there are some great spots... memorable ones.

Thanks....

mmmm, St Mark (Venice) seated outside of a cafe overlooking the lagoon, in a cafe with live musicians
(If it is an hour when the place is not too crowded, which is difficult)

both of these cities are incredibly romantic.

How about walking up to the church San Minaito ai Monte above Florence at dusk to hear the monks chant?

Really,though,you will be filled with inspiration. You should see what calls to you,rather than what we Fodorites think.You can't possibly go wrong in either city.Good luck!

In Venice, on a gondola near sunset in the smaller, quieter canals of Dorsoduro.

In Florence, at Piazzelle Michaelangelo at sunset, but away from the crowds that line the edge of the piazzelle over the valley below.

There are really so many fantastic places in both cities. I'm sure you will get lots of ideas.

I'm going to second Statia's Florence suggestion of the Piazzelle Michaelangelo. What could be more romantic than a wonderful view and sunset overlooking beautiful Florence?

Unfortunately I haven't (yet!) been to Venice so I can't give any advice on that one.

Good luck!
Tracy

My pick would be Venice in a heartbeat. Also, when we were there last month, I saw (though didn't stay in) one of the most romantic hotels I've ever seen--check it out at www.cameriaadele.it.

I think you're a gem for being se ROMANTIC!

Oh, and yes, a gondola would be very romantic too.

In the central courtyard of the Bargello in Florence.

In front of a Botticelli in the Uffizi.

RIGHT in the middle of St Mark s Square (near the clocktower) after shooing the pigeons and tourists.

Personally, I proposed (after 28 years) in our living room and the marriage worked out fine.

Tedgale, I have to laugh because I read your post as "after shooting the pigeons and tourists." Now there's romance!

glatsis, I say just have the ring handy and go for it when the moment is right. Don't try to overplan it.

I agree with Jocelyn_P: be ready to propose, but don't plan ahead. I think the moment will make itself known to you!

My husband proposed to me in France last year. I figured it would happen, but didn't know where or when. There were tons of good opportunities (under the Eiffel Tower as it twinkled, along the banks of the Seine, etc.)...but he didn't seize them (he later said it didn't feel right, and once he chickened out!). After many days, I almost gave up hope! But we were in the cathedral in Chartres (on Day 10!) and it just so happened that another couple was getting married there. I mentioned to him: "Wow, those people must be pretty connected to get married in this cathedral. Can you imagine getting married here?" And he said, "No, but I can imagine proposing..." and then he did! And I am so glad, it was right in so many ways...

Anyway - my point in telling you that is that I think you should be spontaneous and see what in Florence or Venice touches you the most and means most to you.

Thing is, you can't go wrong! Good luck and congrats.

Agree, don't overplan it. Please report in when you return to let us know all the details and whether he/she accepted!

Personally, I think St. Marks in Venice would be a bit cliche...If your gal likes traditional, I'd go with Venice. But Florence to me -- that's sort of unique, not cliche in anyway, shape or form, and there are tons of nice places to get on your knee.

That said, my husband of five years proposed to me in a Middle School park in middle of nowhere, (Yakima, WA -- find THAT on a map) while the leaves were falling, which is proof that it doesn't matter where you ask, just that you do ask.

Good luck,

Jules

If she's the right girl, you've got no worries at all with either locale.

In Venice, I think one of the gorgeous bridges across an anonymous little canal would be better than a gondola or a major tourist site. But that's just me.

Proposal in Italy? You're in.

I think at the top of one of the towers...in Venice at the top of the Campanile.....tell her you it will be worth every step.....

I also like going up on top of St Mark's in Venice overlooking the water or the square.....

You know - anywhere in Italy is so romantic. She will be pleased with anywhere! Who wouldn't????

Good luck!