Bottom line: for a couple where only one person plays, pick a city or coast with plenty to do away from the hall, and choose an event with a short schedule so your partner is not left on their own for long.

What makes a good couples trip

The player wants a real tournament and a quiet routine. The partner wants things to do, easy transport and somewhere pleasant to spend the day. The best trips put both within walking distance or a short train ride of each other.

City trips with plenty to do

  • Prague (Prague Open, 8–15 January 2027): Strahov Library, Petřín Hill with its lookout tower and funicular, and Prague Castle with St Vitus Cathedral. See the Prague guide.
  • Seville (Abierto Internacional Ciudad de Sevilla, 8–16 January 2027): guests staying at least 5 nights at the official hotel get entry to the Real Alcázar on 11 January, according to the organiser's bases. See the Seville guide.
  • Zurich (Zürcher Weihnachtsopen, 26–30 December 2026): the Kunsthaus, the Swiss National Museum and the Uetliberg hill. See the Zurich guide.
  • Edinburgh (Edinburgh Chess Congress): the National Museum of Scotland (home of the Lewis chessmen), Edinburgh Castle and Arthur's Seat. See the Edinburgh guide.

Coast and island options

  • Menorca (30 March–4 April 2027): Cala Macarella, the Naveta des Tudons and Ciutadella old town. See the Menorca guide.
  • Isle of Wight (10–15 November 2026): Osborne House and the Shanklin coast. See the Isle of Wight guide.
  • Cannes (22–28 February 2027): Le Suquet and the Lérins Islands. This is in Cannes, not Nice. See the Nice and Cannes guide.

Practical tips

  • Choose a weekend or weekday section if the event offers both. The Isle of Wight runs a weekday event and a weekend congress, so you can match the length to the trip.
  • Stay close to the hall if possible, so your partner can join you for lunch or a walk during breaks.
  • Plan one shared day on a rest day, and keep it simple.

Browse the guides to find a destination you will both enjoy.

Explore European guides