Traveling is one of the most romantic things a couple can do, for the more you experience together, the more memories you make, and the more bonded you become. Of course, some destinations are more enchanting than others, especially if the goal is to soothe stress, foster connection, and deepen your relationship as a whole. Adventurous couples may feel most drawn to island and mountain destinations with ample outdoor recreation. Art enthusiasts, on the other hand, may want to venture to cities brimming with galleries, museums, and historic masterpieces. Meanwhile, history buffs may feel most fulfilled in places where ancient ruins merge with modern society. The point is, the best vacation spot for couples is ultimately subjective. And that’s precisely why, today, we present you with not one but 20 of the most romantic places in the world. These are the idyllic villages, towns, and cities that you won’t soon forget.
Maui, Hawaii
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Maui is Hawaii’s crown jewel, showcasing lush rainforests against a backdrop of the glistening Pacific beyond. The island is a dream destination for a romantic getaway thanks to its jaw-dropping scenery and biodiverse nature, which allows visitors to make once-in-a-lifetime memories while visiting volcanic craters, exploring awe-inspiring reefs, and seeing some of the most iconic waves in the world.
Where to Stay: For an especially romantic getaway to Maui, book a stay at Hotel Wailea, a luxury adults-only haven and Hawaii’s only Relais & Châteaux property. For a full itinerary, check out our guide on how to spend a perfect long weekend on Maui.
Barcelona, Spain
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Barcelona is a beautiful, romantic destination dotted with whimsical Antoni Gaudí architecture, medieval cobblestone streets, mazes of gardens, and a vibrant culinary scene that will have you experiencing dishes and flavors like nowhere else. The beloved European city sits on Spain’s northeastern Mediterranean coast, nestled against golden sandy beaches and the sparkling sea.
Where to Stay: Located on Barcelona’s most luxurious boulevard, Paseo de Gracia, The Majestic Hotel & Spa Barcelona is the ideal location for a romantic getaway with its plush accommodations, delectable La Dolce Vitae rooftop restaurant and bar, and Sagrada Familia views.
Positano, Amalfi Coast, Italy
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Another Mediterranean gem, Positano is arguably one of the most breathtaking villages in Italy, let alone on the Amalfi Coast. The beautiful mountainside town is stacked with pastel homes and draped in vibrant magenta bougainvillea vines. The two most iconic structures in the village are the Church of Santa Maria Assunta and the spectacular Le Sirenuse, an eye-catching red and white family-owned hotel known to be one of the most coveted stays in all of Europe. Meanwhile, Arienzo Beach Club is the best of best for a day of lounging in the sun, and Chez Black is a beloved stop for lunch and dinner with stunning sea views.
Where to Stay: As you might have guessed, Le Sirenuse is the ultimate lodging option when booking a stay in Positano. The ultra-luxe boutique hotel is home to La Sponda, one of the Coast’s most delicious, romantic, and picturesque restaurants. For other places to stay, check out our guide to the best hotels in Positano.
Cape Town, South Africa
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Cape Town is a must for couples looking to have a laid-back romantic getaway. The South African city is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, complete with mountains, beaches, and vineyards galore. In Cape Town, visitors can enjoy an early morning stroll on the beach before hiking Table Mountain and heading out to the winelands for a late afternoon date with the region’s varietals. Other city highlights fit for a romantic outing include world-class dining, open-air cinemas, and meet-and-greets with endangered (and adorable) African Penguins.
Where to Stay: The newly-built boutique Canopy by Hilton Cape Town Longkloof is located in the heart of Cape Town, within the city’s City Bowl district. The colorful hotel is within just a few kilometers of both City Center and the waterfront, with Table Mountain not much further. The property’s signature restaurant, Ongetem, is in partnership with world-renowned celebrity chef Bertus Basson, known for his mastery of local flavors.
Paris, France
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Some might call it cliché, but Paris is known as the City of Love for a reason. The famous French city has a romantic air that extends from the Eiffel Tower, Pont Alexandre III, and the Seine River to Montmartre, La Marais, and Saint-Germain-des-Prés. Home to the Louvre, Le Musée de la Vie Romantique, and Notre-Dame Cathedral, Paris is a picture-perfect place to expand your palette and mind—and fall in love, whether it be with art, food, or your person.
Where to Stay: For an unforgettable, undeniably romantic stay in Paris, book the Eiffel Tower Suite at the Four Seasons Hotel George V Paris. With unparalleled views of Paris’ most famous landmark, the Four Seasons George V will make for a stay you’ll want to frame and hang to ogle over for the rest of your life.
Guanacaste, Costa Rica
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If your idea of a romantic getaway aligns with becoming one with nature, a trip to Guanacaste is a must. Known as Costa Rica’s “Gold Coast,” Guanacaste is characterized by breathtaking white sand Pacific beaches, lush, tropical dry forests, and outdoor recreation you won’t soon forget, including snorkeling, surfing, hiking, and zip-lining. It’s a place rooted in Pura Vida, meaning pure life, so not only will you feel the love along its shores and within its forests, you may very well experience a deep connection to the water, land, and sustainable practices that can serve you well after vacation ends.
Where to Stay: The Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica Punta Cacique opened in 2025 and is drawing crowds with its pristine beaches, luxurious villas and suites, mouth-watering dining concepts, wellness-forward amenities, and world-class hospitality. A word to the wise: The banana bread at Tico-Tica, the property’s signature all-day dining destination, is in a class of its own. If you’re lucky, the incredibly friendly waitstaff may even slip you the recipe upon departure.
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London, England
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Known as one of the world’s most charming cities, not to mention the setting of Love Actually and Notting Hill, London is a great place to jetset for a romantic getaway any time of year. As beautiful as it is in spring and fall, many agree that the most romantic time to visit is in December, when the city comes alive with holiday magic. Some must-see neighborhoods include Primrose Hill for its quaint cafes and historic pubs, Mayfair for its luxury aesthetic, extending from shopping to dining to architecture, and Soho for its top-tier food scene.
Where to Stay: Luxury travelers can hardly contain their excitement for the soon-to-debut Cambridge House, a stunning Auberge Resorts Collection property opening in the Mayfair neighborhood. The former home of the Duke of Cambridge, the reimagined property is brimming with history, head-turning design, and a new dining concept from Major Food Group. Until the highly anticipated Cambridge House opens its doors, The Londoner is a prime boutique pick with luxury amenities, views of the London Eye, and a vibrant culture scene at its doorstep. For a slightly more secluded stay, consider The Peninsula, known to be one of the most beloved properties in all of London.
The Maldives
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The Maldives has long ranked as a top honeymoon destination. Made up of a string of 1,200 coral islands in the Indian Ocean, the luxury archipelagic nation is known for its crystal-clear waters, overwater bungalows, teeming reefs, and lush forests beyond. It’s the perfect place to retreat and rejuvenate, to hone a wellness routine, and to embark on recreational adventures you may otherwise never get the chance to. With unforgettable snorkeling and swims with manta rays and whale sharks, the Maldives make for a beach vacation in a realm of its own.
Where to Stay: The InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort offers direct access to the majestic waters of The Maldives, where visitors may see manta rays, sea turtles, and black tip sharks among the colorful coral house reef. In partnership with The Manta Trust, a UK-based charity geared toward manta ray research and conservation, The InterContinental Maldives not only invites guests to swim with mantas, the property also offers Blue Mind Escapes, showcasing water- and wellness-oriented programming including overwater meditation, seaside yoga, and more.
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Santorini, Greece
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Santorini is beloved for its instantly recognizable blue and white architecture, its jaw-dropping sunsets, world-class beaches, and luxury hotels equipped with amenities that make it difficult to leave. Suffice to say, it’s a trip-worthy destination for anyone looking to romanticize their life or their relationship.
Where to Stay: Mystique Hotel Santorini is a minimalist-luxe retreat carved into the Caldera cliffs overlooking the Aegean Sea. The exclusive property boasts natural, bespoke design, luxurious linens and toiletries, various dining concepts, an on-site spa, and two sparkling infinity pools with views of the Caldera, Santorini’s landmark volcanic crater in the sea.
Bali, Indonesia
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Bali is renowned for being one of the world’s most wellness-forward destinations. With mind and body experiences and excursions at the forefront, Bali is a romantic place to travel on your own or with a partner—by the end of your trip, you’re bound to feel more in love with life. Spiritual and secluded, Bali has a way of quickly mystifying travelers with its magical, natural landscape showcasing mountains, rainforests, and pristine beaches you may never want to leave.
Where to Stay: Marriott loyalists are counting down the days to the March 2026 opening of JW Marriott Bali Ubud Resort & Spa. With 79 luxury suites, 22 villas, and a 100-guest chapel, the property is slated to be not only a honeymoon destination but a destination wedding venue, too. In the meantime, W Bali – Seminyak offers beautiful luxury accommodations with direct beach access in the heart of the island’s vibrant fashion, nightlife, and culinary scene.
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Phuket, Thailand
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Phuket is a top destination for honeymoons and romantic getaways in general, thanks to its stunning scenery, luxurious accommodations, and captivating sunsets. Whether you’re looking to go island hopping through turquoise waters, unwind with a traditional Thai massage, or embark on a little shopping, Phuket has it all.
Where to Stay: The Naka Island, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa in Phuket is highly rated for its private pool villas with panoramic views of Phang Nga Bay. Though, the property also has luxury guest rooms and suites available. Beyond accommodations, The Naka Island features a state-of-the-art Technogym fitness center, a tranquil spa, and various dining options. Guests can even book private sunset dinners on the beach for special occasions.
Fiji
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Fiji marries outdoor recreation with top-tier relaxation against the backdrop of some of the most stunning tropical scenery in the world. While visitors can island hop to many of the more than 300 islands that make up the archipelago, most of the lodging is centered across the mainland islands of Viti Levu and Vanua Levu, as well as on the island groups of Mamanuca and Yasawa. Wherever you book a room, Fiji is bound to wow you with unparalleled snorkeling, scuba diving, sea kayaking, deep sea fishing, and more—and that’s before even considering the unique amenities at each of the resorts.
Where to Stay: Nanuku Resort Fiji, a property comprised of suites, villas, and residences, has been dubbed one of the best luxury resorts in the world, let alone the South Pacific. From the ancient healing modalities used at The Spa at Nunuku to the unique local ingredients woven into every meal at the property’s signature fine-dining establishment, Kanavata, Nanuku welcomes visitors with rich Fijian culture at every turn.
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Tulum, Mexico
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Tulum makes for a romantic getaway just a short plane ride from the States. The eco-chic Mexican town is located in the country’s Mayan Riviera, where ancient ruins sidle up to some of the most breathtaking Caribbean beaches in North America. There are few better ways to connect with a partner than by embarking on a new adventure together, and Tulum has plenty of avenues to do just that, whether it’s going for a swim in a cenote, booking an open-air couple’s massage, lounging at one of the popular beach clubs, or engaging in water sports.
Where to Stay: Papaya Playa Project is one of Tulum’s most stunning and secluded resorts, with a variety of villas and suites, each dripping with bohemian luxury. Nestled between the Caribbean Sea and the jungle, Papaya Playa Project welcomes guests to stroll the beach, cool off in the water, and meander through the lush jungle paths, all while enjoying access to fully-immersive healing experiences, mouth-watering culinary journeys, eye-opening art, and a private beach club you’ll be tempted to post up at all day.
Mauritius
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Mauritius is yet another extraordinary tropical destination fit for honeymoons, anniversaries, or any time you and your partner simply need to get away. Situated in the warm Indian Ocean, Mauritius is a year-round delight, offering visitors world-class snorkeling, scuba diving, hiking, and golf, as well as unique shopping and dining experiences. An absolute must-see in Mauritius is the famous “underwater waterfall” (an optical illusion, albeit a marvelous one) off the tip of the Le Morne Peninsula, though, you’ll need to book a helicopter tour to see it.
Where to Stay: Enjoy a beautiful, adults-only boutique stay at La Maison 20 Degrés Sud, a Relais & Châteaux property with just 36 rooms. Located at the northern tip of the island in an ancient coconut grove, La Maison 20 Degrés Sud offers guests the chance to retreat, reconnect, and rejuvenate.
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Kyoto, Japan
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In Kyoto, travelers will marvel over the many temples and tea houses that line the picturesque cobblestone streets. Behind the Buddhist Kiyomizu-dera Temple, visitors can find the Jishu-Jinja Shrine, which honors the gods of love and relationships. It’s said that those who navigate between the Koiuranai-no-ishi (love fortune stones) with their eyes closed will be granted their most sacred wish for love.
Where to Stay: For a truly zen, romantic stay, splurge on a room or suite at the Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto. Nestled within an 800-year-old heritage pond garden, the luxury property marries nature with traditional Japanese architecture, showcasing lush views from most accommodations. To streamline your planning, check out the property’s couples experiences.
New York, New York
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If a bustling city getaway is more your vibe, nowhere compares to New York City. The Big Apple makes for an endlessly entertaining vacation any time of year. From shopping in SoHo and along Fifth Avenue to strolling through Central Park and catching street performers in Washington Square Park, the city has head-turning sights and sounds around every corner.
Where to Stay: There are so many iconic romantic hotels in New York City. Most classic of all is The Plaza Hotel overlooking Central Park. For a posh, art-forward stay, book a room at Faena New York in West Chelsea; for gorgeous digs that look straight out of a Parisian boutique hotel, consider Fouquet’s New York in Tribeca.
Rome, Italy
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There’s something inherently romantic about ancient buildings that have stood the test of time, and there’s truly nothing like experiencing the Colosseum, Pantheon, and Vatican City in person. Plus, considering Rome is the heart of the Roman Empire, a trip to the “Eternal City” may very well inspire visitors to champion everlasting love. Of course, no trip to Rome is complete without exploring the city’s famed art and culinary scenes.
Where to Stay: For a luxurious respite from Rome’s city center, book a stay at the Rome Cavalieri Waldorf Astoria, where guests can indulge in 3-star Michelin dining, a world-class spa, secluded pools, and sumptuous rooms and suites.
Marrakech, Morocco
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Marrakech is brimming with colorful gardens, palaces, and mosques, not to mention seemingly endless souks and hidden boutiques, making it a favorite among foodies, history buffs, and bargain shoppers. A must-see in the Moroccan city is the ancient Medina of Marrakech, a UNESCO World Heritage site that’s a walled city dating back to the 11th century. Today, visitors can shop, dine, and pray within its walls.
Where to Stay: Palais Ronsard is a secluded 27-room Moroccan retreat rooted in poetry and art, which lends to an undeniably romantic air throughout the grounds. A Relais & Châteaux property, Palais Ronsard showcases award-winning gastronomy, a stunning and serene spa, and secret gardens that feel fresh out of a fairytale.
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Big Sky, Montana
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According to Expedia Group’s annual Unpack ’26 report, Big Sky is forecasted to be the most popular global travel destination in 2026. As interest in the American West and its pastimes rises, and as people everywhere are looking to embrace more analog pastimes, it’s no surprise that the Rocky Mountain outdoor recreation hotspot came out on top.
Where to Stay: For an undeniably romantic, memorable stay in Big Sky, book a room at One&Only Moonlight Basin, the first One&Only property in the United States. The luxury property immerses guests in the spectacular Montana wilderness while equipping them with the most elite accommodations in the state. And with seasonal programming, it’s a year-round delight.
Schwangau, Germany
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Hohenschwangau is the stuff that fairytale dreams are made of, literally. The Schwangau village, nestled in the beautiful Bavarian Alps, is home to the iconic Neuschwanstein Castle, which was the real-life inspiration for Sleeping Beauty’s castle. The small town is a superb destination for travelers who love to bike, hike, swim, and explore the countryside, as well as those with a passion for history, given the various castles in the region, some of which have ties to the 12th century.
Where to Stay: Hotel Helmer is one of the most picturesque hotels in the region. The family-run, modern Alpine hotel blends beautiful Bavarian wooden architecture with overflowing flower boxes lined with geraniums. It’s a sight to behold, and the on-site restaurant is a favorite among guests and locals alike.
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