There is no better occasion to binge-watch classic romantic movies than Valentine’s Day. Whether you are looking for a fun night in with friends or an intimate evening with a significant other, the movies on this list will check off all the boxes. I personally cannot think of anything else I would rather be doing on a Monday night. As we are also located in the city that never sleeps, what better way to combine the two and focus on rom-com movies that take place in New York City?

1. ‘13 Going on 30’

Directed by Gary Winick, “13 Going On 30” (2004) is a captivating story that follows a young girl who wishes to become an adult more than anything. Jenna Rink (Jennifer Garner)’s adolescence is filled with mean girls and confusing boys, and when her intricately planned birthday party goes awry, it’s the final straw. To her surprise, she wakes up in a beautiful apartment in New York City with a boyfriend, best friend and a full-time job at her dream fashion magazine. As she is learning how to navigate this new life trapped in an adult body, she reunites with her old best friend, Matt Flamhaff (Mark Ruffalo). The two become inseparable once again, and a romantic spark is set aflame. 

2. ‘Breakfast at Tiffany’s’ 

One of the most iconic New York City films, “Breakfast at Tiffany’s,” (1961) follows the love story of a young woman (Audrey Hepburn) who meets a young man (George Peppard) who lives in the same apartment building as her. As she begins to take interest in him, her past begins to interfere with this budding romance. This film, while being an American classic, is also the perfect movie if you are looking for that old-time New York vibe. Filled with heartfelt moments and old love, Blake Edwards’ film is sure to leave you satisfied. 

3. ‘Moonstruck’

This movie will certainly fulfill all of your dramatic needs this Valentine’s Day. “Moonstruck” (1987) offers a classically comedic scenario: A woman who is set to marry a man but accidentally falls for his younger brother. Cher’s Oscar-worthy performance of the main character Loretta Castorini tackled the role of a fantasy woman in New York City in the ’80s. This romantic movie will surely make you swoon, and it will also provide drama and laughs for your entertainment.

4. ‘When Harry Met Sally’

The chemistry between main characters Sally Albright (Meg Ryan) and Harry Burns (Billy Crystal) is undeniable in this ’90s rom-com. This tale of the relationship between men and women, platonic friends, and sex gets messy when the two graduate college students reunite later on in life. As they continuously cross paths in the Big Apple, they begin to wonder if a romance could take place between them. This Oscar-nominated movie features iconic NYC landmarks like Katz’s Delicatessen. 

5. ‘Serendipity’

Last but certainly not least, “Serendipity” (2001) is a beautiful story about love at first sight. Two individuals, played by John Cusack and Kate Beckinsale, are on a 30-year journey to find each other again after they had been separated. Whether you call it fate or destiny, this movie gives all the feels you need this Valentine’s Day. It is as romantic as it gets, and that’s really all you need.