Like it or not, we will all celebrate Valentine's Day in one way or another. But how many of us know how it originated? There are many legends, but the most popular one is that St Valentine defied a decree issued by the Roman ruler Claudius II banning all marriages. Claudius had instituted the ban because he believed fewer soldiers were willing to risk their lives in battle because of loved ones back home. However, St. Valentine continued to marry couples in secret.

When he was finally caught, he was imprisoned and then put to death. The year was 270 AD, the date was February 14. During his imprisonment, he had befriended and fallen in love with the daughter of a guard, who used to visit him in his cell. On his death, he left her a note thanking her for her friendship signed: "Love from your Valentine".

And so a tradition was born. Every February 14, across the globe, men and women still profess their undying devotion to each other. Over the years, the tradition has gone through many adaptations. In some countries, girls would receive a gift of clothing from a man. If she kept the gift, it means she would marry him.

In the Middle Ages, young men and women drew names from a bowl to discover who their Valentine would be. They would then pin these names to their sleeves for a week, hence the saying ' to wear your heart on your sleeve', which means it is easy for people to see how you are feeling!

In Wales wooden spoons were presented to potential lovers. These would be adorned with hearts, keys and keyholes to convey the message: "You unlock my heart." In some towns of Italy, young women used to stand at their windows before sunrise on the day with bated breath, as they believed that the first man they spotted would be their partner for life.

In Japan, women send a piece of candy (known as hon-mei) to those they admire. One month later, the men return the compliment by sending candy to young women. A widely-held belief was that if a young woman saw a bird flying overhead on Valentine's Day, it would symbolise her romantic future. If she saw a robin, it meant she would marry a sailor. If she saw a sparrow, she would marry a poor man and be very happy. If she saw a goldfinch, she would marry a millionaire. So, young ladies, be on the lookout for a goldfinch on February 14.

In nearly all cultures, Valentine's cards still form the most important part of the tradition. In Victorian times they were hand-made and decorated with lace. They are meant to be sent anonymously, although the recipient is meant to be able to guess who sent it. These days’ people disguise their handwriting or post it from another town or country to hide their identity.

Taking your loved one out to dinner has long been virtually compulsory on the big night, but now more and more people are choosing to treat their partners to a night away from home. They either book into a swanky hotel in their home city or take a short break to a romantic destination. This has become especially fashionable in Europe, so we have decided to check out the most romantic destinations on the continent. Here are our top five:

Paris - For many, this is the most romantic city in the world where every day feels like Valentine's Day. There's something about Paris that forces one to fall in love. Could it be the superb buildings - the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre and the Arc de Triomphe? Or is it the bustling pavement cafes, the beautiful Seine or the divine food? Whatever it is, it is bound to work for you. Hotel choice: Saint-Paul Hotel A charming small hotel in the Latin Quarter.

Venice - With its magnificent piazzas, picturesque gondolas and narrow alleys, it has a romantic flair that can take your breath away. It spells secret assignations in shaded doorways, stolen kisses at shuttered windows and long, lazy strolls through its ancient streets. This is the Italy everyone dreams about, you can make it your reality. Hotel choice: Danieli Hotel A splendidly restored palace only steps away from the Piazza San Marco.

Vienna - This stately city, famous for its architecture and music, makes a picture-postcard setting for a romantic getaway. Sip wine in a century-old tavern, take a ride in a two-horse carriage, share handmade chocolates or dress up for a night at the opera. Whatever you do, you are bound to feel like European royalty on a state visit. Hotel choice: Falkensteiner Palace Hotel Modern, comfortable rooms, recently renovated.

Prague - Legend has it that a kiss on the Charles Bridge will ensure a lifelong romance, so why not give it a try? And you get to enjoy a fascinating city with romantic castles, great shopping and fun nightlife. Make sure you head for one of the surrounding hills to see why Prague is known as the "city of a hundred spires". Hotel choice: Radisson SAS Alcron Hotel A charming Art Deco building near Wenceslas Square.

London - While you may have seen Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London and St Paul's Cathedral, the London of today is innovative, chic and incredibly cosmopolitan. Dine alongside superstars and business moguls in Chelsea and Knightsbridge, go shopping at the trendiest boutiques and book the best seats at a West End theatre. You'll discover a London that is fashionable and fun. Hotel choice: Millennium Hotel London Knightsbridge Stylish hotel with superb location.