25 Romantic Getaways & Honeymoon Destinations For Couples

When planning the honeymoon of your dreams, it can be overwhelming choosing the perfect location. Every couple’s idea of romance is different. We’ve rounded up a list of super romantic getaways for couples in destinations around the world that are just as unique as your relationship.

Whether you’re trying to plan the honeymoon of your dreams (congrats!), celebrating an anniversary, or are simply looking for a romantic getaway with your hunny, we’ve got a list of some dreamy spots that’ll spark your lust not only for wandering, but for each other… too corny? Eh, get over it. There’s gonna be lots of sappy references in this article.

Whether your idea of romance is kicking back on the beach with a coconut in your hand, diving headfirst into culture and food, or a heart-thumping adventure, we’ve got a list of romantic holidays for couples that’ll turn your spark into a roaring fire. I told you there’d be corny references!

So if you’re dreaming about romance on the beach, culture, history, adventure or any combination of the above, keep reading for some utterly romantic getaway ideas that might just make you a stronger couple!

Before you pack your bags (with somethin’ sexy…) 

Don’t forget to do this one thing first. You’ll thank us later…

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Romantic Getaways Article Contents

Jump to the section you are looking for, or just scroll down the page.

• Romantic Beach Destinations

• Romantic Destinations for Adventure Addicts

• Romantic Destinations Full of Culture

• Classic Romantic Destinations

• Off-the-Beaten-Path Romantic Destinations

• Honeymoon Destinations on a Budget

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If You Want Romance on the Beach

So your idea of romance is powdery white sand and aquamarine waters? Here are our favorite romantic beach destinations…

1. The Philippines

If we were going to plan a second honeymoon (hmm… maybe not be a bad idea), the Philippines would be one of our top picks. We’ve said before that while it’s hard to choose favorite places, the Philippines stole our hearts and is a contender for our favorite country in the world.

If romance is what you’re after, you’ll find it while splashing in the tepid waters of secluded Nacpan Beach, in El Nido, while aboard an island-hopping cruise, or over a candlelit dinner on the beach.

Be sure to visit Boracay to see the beaches that have been hailed as some of the most beautiful in the world!

Romantic Places to Stay in the Philippines:

2. Bali, Indonesia 

For the ultimate romantic getaway, it’s hard to beat a trip to Bali. This island oozes with sunshine, smiles, and a laid-back vibe that’ll make you and your babe starry-eyed. In our opinions, Bali is a perfect honeymoon destination!

Take a yoga class together, explore ancient Hindu temples, rent bikes, try surfing and watch some of the most epic sunsets on a beach with cocktails in hand.

And if you have the time, take a short ferry ride to the nearby Gili Islands: Gili Trawangan for a party, Gili Air for amazing beaches and Gili Meno for a secluded getaway where it feels like it’s just you and your bae. If you’re looking for extra relaxation, there are many wellness retreats in Bali to get you in the right state of mind.

Romantic Places to Stay in Bali:

3. Thailand

With stunning beaches, lush mountains, delicious food, and rich culture, Thailand is a destination that appeals to both the budget-conscious and luxurious traveler. There is no shortage of romance in this Southeast Asian hot-spot either! 

Whether you’re island-hopping your way around the country, soaking up the culture in Bangkok, or you aim to attend the traditional lantern festival in Chiang Mai, there are plenty of ways to keep the passion alive!

Be sure to check out our detailed Thailand travel guide to help you plan the ultimate trip!

Romantic Places to Stay in Thailand:

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Calling All Adventure Addicts

If a racing heart is the key to romance for you and your hunny, we’ve got a list of places that’ll get your blood pumping for more reasons than one…

4. Banff, Canada

We actually took our honeymoon to Banff National Park, and could not recommend it more highly. If you, like us, want to do something completely different than the norm for your honeymoon, this adventure-packed destination should be a contender on your list.

Banff is consistently rated as one of the best national parks in Canada, and for good reason! In addition to adrenaline-pumping activities, explore cute cafes and breweries, bathe in the nearby hot springs and take a gondola to the top of Sulphur Mountain where you’ll quite literally be on top of the world with your babe. 

While beautiful year-round, we visited this Canadian slice of heaven in early September, which was perfect for all the outdoor activities we could pack into 2 weeks: hiking, mountain biking, canoeing and even skydiving! Plus, we missed all the crowds of the summer months. So we think it was a pretty perfect time to go.

Psst! Check out this round up of the best hikes in Banff on our sister site!

If you happen to be visiting during the winter (lucky you — snowboarding at Sunshine Resort is on our dream list!), our friends from Practical Wanderlust have a guide you’ve gotta check out! It’s a breakdown of what to pack, top travel tips, and the best things to do in Banff in the winter.

Romantic Place to stay in Banff:

Insider Tip: If you’re in nearby Calgary looking for a romantic place to stay, consider booking a night or two at Hotel Arts Kensington.

5. Iceland

If your idea of romance is exploring a land that looks utterly out-of-this-world, Iceland is calling for you.

You’ll want to rent a car or campervan for this adventure that’ll take you on wide-open roads, past waterfall after waterfall, and to black sand beaches.

Make sure you’ve got plenty of snacks and a killer playlist and get ready for the road trip of a lifetime! You can’t get much more romantic than that in our books.

Romantic Places to stay in Iceland:

6. New Zealand

If your idea of romance is hiking in some of the most picturesque mountain ranges in the world, cozying up in a campervan and immersing yourselves in nature, and occasionally getting your adrenaline pumping by plunging off a bridge together, well than New Zealand has it all for you. 

Whether it’s your first visit or you’re returning to explore parts of the country you didn’t get a chance to see last time, New Zealand has something for everyone. Even those looking to save some money on their romantic holiday. 

Because there is so much to do and see in this adventure-packed county, read this before planning your trip and be sure to check out our detailed New Zealand Travel Guide to help you plan the ultimate romantic holiday!

Romantic Places to Stay in New Zealand:

7. Costa Rica

Some of you may picture Costa Rica and think, “Isn’t this considered a beach destination?” You wouldn’t be wrong! If lounging on a beach or catching some waves is your idea of a romantic holiday, you can certainly count Costa Rica as a good contender. 

However, this diverse country is more than just a place with great surfing. Costa Rica is actually a country full of adventurous things to do on a romantic getaway. Go chasing waterfalls during the day and soak the night away with your hunny in natural hot springs. If adrenaline is what gets your blood pumping (see what I did there…) there is white water rafting, zip-lining and plenty of thrill-inducing adventures here. 

Romantic Places to Stay in Costa Rica:

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If Culture Turns You On

If tasting exotic foods, wandering through temples and exploring historical architecture sounds like a perfect setting for romance, we’ve got a few destinations in mind…

8. Kyoto, Japan

There’s something romantic about experiencing something totally out of your element with your sweetie. And Japan is just that: different in every way.

The juxtaposition of chaos and peacefulness creates a perfect ambiance for a blissful getaway with a touch of adventure. Kyoto is a wonderful destination for your first time in Japan.

Wander through the postcard-worthy Arashiyama bamboo forest, explore the orange gates of the Fushimi Inari Shrine, glimpse the iconic Golden Temple and take a Japanese cooking class.

We think Japan is especially romantic in the winter when there are less crowds and you can enjoy each other’s company while soaking nude in an outdoor onsen (hot springs) as snowflakes kiss your shoulders. Dreamy, huh?!

Romantic Place to Stay in Kyoto:

9. Florence, Italy

Florence is the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance, and what could be more romantic than that? Imagine strolling hand-in-hand with your sweetheart down cobblestone streets, bellies full of pasta, licking your gelato as you gaze at the architectural masterpieces around every corner.  

From endless shopping to significant works of art and historical architecture, there is no shortage of things to do while visiting Florence. Besides climbing to the top of the famous Duomo and viewing Michelangelo’s The David statue, you can get love-drunk off Tuscan wine during a wine tasting tour, or try your hand at rolling your own pasta in a cooking class. 

If you have extra time on your trip, we recommend staying outside of Florence in a Tuscan villa to channel some major “Under the Tuscan Sun” romance vibes.

Romantic Places to Stay in Florence:

10. Cartagena, Colombia

The colorful colonial architecture and overgrown flower boxes are enough to make anyone fall in love. Wake up with a coffee on your balcony and watch fruit vendors set up their carts in the streets below.

Spend your days getting lost in narrow passageways, drinking fresh fruit juices and mingling with friendly locals. Watch the sun set from the city walls with a beer in hand and dance the night away in the streets to live music. Cartagena boasts romance at its finest.

And for a nearby beach spot, head to Tayrona National Park for a romantic night (with a bit of adventure!) under the stars. If you want to really pack in the adventures, take a short flight to Medellin to explore this incredibly interesting city, and slow down in the charming mountain village of Salento.

Romantic Places to stay in Cartagena:

We have loads of info on how to book Airbnbs, red flags to watch out for when booking, and our favorite Airbnbs in our Airbnb article. Plus, we’ll give you our Airbnb coupon code for up to $55 off Airbnb.

11. Oaxaca, Mexico

If you’re looking to spice things up with your lover, we’ve got just the place!

As you may know, Mexico has quickly made it’s way to the top of our favorite countries list. If there was one place that stole our hearts above the rest, that would be Oaxaca, if just for the food alone! Oaxaca City is bursting with culture inside it’s brightly-colored and cactus-dotted exterior. It is the perfect location for a romantic holiday filled with new experiences. 

Whether you’re visiting for just a few days before heading to the beaches on the coast, or a whole week, there are plenty of ways to fill your time while in Oaxaca. 

If you really want to pack on the adventure, check out our list of incredible things to do in Mexico (that aren’t beaches!). 

Romantic Places to Stay in Oaxaca:

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If You’re A Classic Romantic

If wandering through cobblestone streets amongst architecture that’ll make you swear you’ve stepped into a turn-of-the-century romance novel sounds like your idea of a perfect getaway, keep reading…

12. Lake Bled, Slovenia

Touristy? Sure. But oh so romantically worth it? Hell yes. In northern Slovenia (a country we think is totally underrated, for the record), Lake Bled is a stunning backdrop for any lovebird getaway.

Try the famous Bled cream cake, take a dip in one of the area’s many spas and walk around the lake, of course! Don’t miss a short (but steep) hike up to the viewpoint of the iconic Bled Island. You’ll be happy you made the trek.

And if you’re feeling extra sappy and touristy, you can even hire a rowboat to take you to the island. Legend has it that if you make a wish and ring the bell in the tower of the church, it will come true. And it works better for love-related wishes (wink wink).

Romantic Places to stay in Lake Bled:

13. Amalfi Coast, Italy

Perhaps one of the most iconic honeymoon spots in the world, it’s no wonder so many people venture to Italy’s Amalfi Coast for some post-wedding vacationing.

Pair stunning architecture, seaside views, exquisite cuisine, and even better wine, and you have the perfect recipe for romance.

Positano is perfectly postcard-worthy and the island of Capri looks like something out of a dream.

Insider Tip: While most of the towns lie right on the ocean, venture up the mountain to Ravelo to experience one of the lesser-known towns in this region with some of the best views. The vibe in this tiny medieval village is entirely different than the seaside towns that dot the Mediterranean, but it is just as romantic.

Romantic Place to stay in the Amalfi Coast:

14. Paris, France

What’s more romantic than vacationing in the most romantic city in the world? We’re talking about the City of Love after all. 

Celebrate your eternal love by engraving your initials on a lock and securing it to the Love Locks Bridge Seine River. Take a leisurely stroll through a pedal dusted park or snuggle up under a blanket on a river cruise. Bring a sunset picnic to the Eiffel Tower and stay until it lights up after dark. 

Paris is the ultimate romantic destination for a couples holiday.

Romantic Places to Stay in Paris:

We have loads of info on how to book an Airbnb, red flags to watch out for when booking, and our favorite Airbnbs in our Airbnb article. 

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If You’re Looking for Romance Off-the-Beaten-Path

If exploring a place utterly unfamiliar with your hunny by your side sounds like your ideal setting for romance, we’ve got a few destinations in mind…

15. Jeju Island, South Korea

Affectionately known as the “Hawaii of Korea” this volcanic island just south of mainland Korea is a stunner.

With a mixture of sandy beaches, unique lava-sculpted landscape to be explored and proud and friendly locals, Jeju has a lovely mix of relaxation, adventure and a culture uniquely its own.

If you want to get really frisky, there’s even a park dedicated to erotic statues, if that’s your thing. It’s no wonder this island is a popular honeymoon destination for many Koreans.

Romantic Places to stay in Jeju:

16. Galápagos, Ecuador

If you want a romantic getaway that’s truly once-in-a-lifetime experience, a trip to the Galapagos Islands will be one you’ll be talking about for years.

With an ecosystem that’s unmatched, this archipelago of islands off the coast of Ecuador has some of the best wildlife spotting in the world.

Swim with seals, dive with sharks, search for the elusive blue-footed booby, and spot more iguanas than you can count… you may just fall in love with the wildlife. Oh, and the beaches ain’t too shabby either!

Romantic Places to Stay in the Galápagos:

17. Croatia

Known for crystal-clear waters surrounding island after island, a sailing trip in Croatia might be the perfect off-the-beaten-path romantic holiday for you and your special someone. 

Begin your journey in Split, where you can wander through the narrow streets of the historic old town and stock up on essentials before setting sail. Stop at the party-centric island of Hvar or more tranquil spots like Šolta as you make your way down the Dalmatian coast. You can cater your itinerary to whatever fits your heart’s desires. End your journey in the stunning walled city of Dubrovnik, but not before reading this first. 

If we’re being honest, Croatia was not our favorite country to visit in the Balkans and we did feel it was a bit more hyped-up than it deserved. However, there are still plenty of reasons to visit this budget-friendly European country for a romantic holiday.

If you have extra time on your trip, a visit to both Krka and Plitvice Lakes National Park is highly recommended for some of the most epic waterfall viewing in all of Eastern Europe. 

Romantic Places to Stay in Croatia:

18. Turkey

Turkey wasn’t exactly on our radar until we spent a month there back in 2015 and were continually surprised by its beauty and the seemingly never ending list of adventures to be had. If you need a little convincing, these travel photos are sure to spark your wanderlust for Turkey. 

Speaking of lust… There are plenty of places to visit in Turkey that will have the romance vibes set to strong. Imagine hot air ballooning over fairy-like chimneys at sunrise or sleeping in a cave snuggled up next to your special someone. 

If you want to get really intimate, get a rub down in a Turkish hammam (traditional Turkish bathhouse) followed by a couples massage. 

Romantic Places to Stay in Turkey:

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If Your Budget is Tight

After calculating the high costs of everything that goes into throwing a wedding, planning a honeymoon within a budget can sound a bit daunting.

We asked our friend Kat, a self-proclaimed travel hacking addict from World Wide Honeymoon, to help us pull together this list of the best honeymoon destinations on a budget, to help you and your spouse travel the globe post-wedding in style, without breaking the bank.

19. Santa Barbara County, CA

If you’re looking to stay stateside, we’ve got just the romantic USA getaway in mind…

While Napa gets all of the attention as a relaxing wine destination, you shouldn’t discount Santa Barbara County. With beaches, world-class wine, and the beauty of the California coast, you’ll quickly unwind on your honeymoon here. 

I know it can be hard to believe that anywhere in California can be ideal for a budget honeymoon destination, but it is doable in Santa Barbara County! Wine tastings go for around $15-20 versus $50+ in Napa, making a few days of wine tasting in California much more affordable. You’ll also be able to enjoy the beaches in Santa Barbara and wander along the many boutique shops! 

Budget Tip: Find cheap flights to LA or San Diego and drive up the coast to get there, and opt to stay in the delightful Danish town of Solvang in the Santa Ynez Valley versus beachfront in Santa Barbara proper.

Romantic Places to Stay in Santa Barbara, CA:

20. Cusco, Peru

While Cusco may be known as a backpacker and trekking haven, it is the perfect romantic place for lovers too. Get cozy while sipping coca tea on your balcony, explore gorgeous churches, and definitely take the time to see the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. 

Peru is easy to visit on a budget, with average meals costing less than $15 for two and drinks starting at just $2.

Budget Tips:

• The best way to save money in Peru is to avoid visiting during June-August, the busiest time of year and the most expensive.

• Flights can be found from the US to Lima for pretty cheap, and flights around Peru are inexpensive as well. 

Romantic Places to Stay in Cusco:

Both hotels are in the historic part of town, making it easy to walk to many attractions!

21. Prague, Czech Republic

Prague is for lovers. As much as I love Paris, if you want to visit a romantic city but save some money, Prague is the clear winner.

The exchange rate advantage is great. Hotel rooms can be found in high season often for under $100 per night and there are plenty of cheap (and free) things to do in the city. Discount flights and cheap train fares to Prague can be found from anywhere in Europe. 

Budget Tip: The best way to save money in Prague is to stay further from the city center of Old Town Prague. As charming as it is, it is free to wander along Charles Bridge, admire the architecture, etc., whereas hotels can be very pricey here. Instead, stay outside the main tourist area and don’t eat at the typical touristy restaurants and you’ll save a lot of money. 

Romantic Places to stay in Prague:

22. Malta

The island nation of Malta is starting to gain popularity, particularly Valletta, the country’s capital. Malta is an affordable place to honeymoon with gorgeous beaches and fairly priced accommodation, making it absolutely perfect for a Mediterranean getaway without the price tag. 

Budget Tip: To save money on your trip to Malta, spend a day or two in the capital city, and take the ferry over to Gozo Island. This lush isle is full of amazing sites including ancient, stone structures, inland caves, and more!

Romantic Places to Stay in Malta:

23. Halong Bay, Vietnam

Vietnam is truly stunning. We also spent some time here during our honeymoon and I cannot wait to return. The most beautiful place we’ve probably ever been was Halong Bay. 

Vietnam is also an incredibly affordable place. While cruises may be more expensive, they do include food and activities, as well as transportation to and from Hanoi. We felt like the cruise we took through Halong Bay was beyond worth it, but you can also save extra money by staying on land. 

Related Reading: If you should decide to plan your honeymoon in Halong Bay, you’ll want to be sure to read up on how to get a Vietnam visa on arrival and other helpful tips in our Vietnam Travel Guide. 

Romantic Places to Stay in Halong Bay:

24. Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka might be a small country but it sure has a lot to offer for the budget traveler. With gorgeous tea plantations, idyllic beaches, and unique landscapes, Sri Lanka is the perfect place for a budget honeymoon. 

You can stay at luxury resorts across the country for under $100 per night, take a train ride for under $1 per person, and even a full meal costs under $4 per person! It’s seriously that cheap. 

Budget Tip: When it comes to saving money, just traveling here is inexpensive, from transportation to accommodation. My biggest tip is to use travel hacks to find a cheap flights.

Romantic Places to Stay in Sri Lanka:

Did I mention these are 5-star resorts for under $100?!

25. Santorini, Greece

Bet you didn’t expect to see this popular honeymoon destination in the budget category!

While Santorini can certainly be a top tier honeymoon destination, it is also possible to stay here on a budget. With awe-inspiring views, pink and black sand beaches, and so many great spots to explore, Santorini is a place many honeymooners fall in love with. 

To save money here requires a little effort…

Biggest Budget Tip of Them All: Don’t stay in Oia.

This area is super touristy and the hotel prices are insanely expensive, especially during high season. Instead, opt for the other side of the island like Perissa or Kamari where there are beautiful beaches and great, affordable restaurants. There are plenty of tours and buses that will take you to see Oia and around the islands as well as ATV rentals to get out and explore for yourself. 

Romantic Places to Stay in Santorini:

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• How to Plan an International Trip

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• How We Afford to Travel, (and you can too!)

• Don’t You Dare Travel Without This!

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We want to hear from you!

What is the most romantic destination you’ve ever visited? What do you look for in a romantic getaway? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below!