Before The Vampire Diaries, Elena dated Matt Donovan (Zach Roerig), who was unable to move past his feelings for her initially after their break - up. Elena began dating Stefan Salvatore (Paul Wesley), and later discovered he was a vampire. As the episodes progressed, she developed a connection with Stefan 's adventurous brother Damon Salvatore (Ian Somerhalder), who consumes human blood, unlike Stefan, who has an animal blood diet. Speaking about the different qualities Stefan and Damon bring to Elena, Dobrev said they have "different qualities that are very appealing '', which combined make "the perfect man ''. She said "Stefan is committed and sweet and protective and loving, and Damon is spontaneous and crazy and fun and exciting ''.
who does elena date in the vampire diaries
Stefan Salvatore Damon Salvatore