The 35 Most Romantic Holidays in the World

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In the mood for love? Get ready to be inspired by the world's most romantic holidays.

The thing about romance is that it's subjective. For some couples, a romantic holiday involves blissing out on the beach in the day and candlelit dinners in the evening; for others, it's about exploring somewhere new together and having shared adventures.

That's why we've made sure to include couples getaways to suit all different styles, from outdoor adrenalin-rush activities to more tranquil escapes. We've also taken into account different budgets, as well as holiday time - you can still have a super-romantic break if all you can spare at the moment is a long weekend.

Wondering when the best time to go is? Here are the best holiday and honeymoon destinations by month.

Romantic Holiday Destinations for Couples

What these holiday ideas have in common is a focus on spending quality time as a couple - what could be more romantic than that? Give your relationship some TLC on one (or more!) of these very special couples' breaks.

1. Safari in Botswana

• Best for: Unforgettable wildlife

Safari holidays can be so romantic - those early-morning game drives catching the sunrise; the shared experience of spotting animals you've never before seen in real life; cocktails at sunset. You can elevate the romance even further by choosing a truly spectacular location, and we think Botswana’s Central Kalahari Game Reserve should be right at the top of your couple's bucket list.

This sandy wilderness is the second largest wildlife reserve in the world and the perfect place to spot black-maned lions, cheetahs, giraffes, zebras and more. It’s also home to some of the most luxurious and romantic safari lodges and camps in Africa.

2. Exploring Hidden Venice, Italy

• Best for: Romantic gondola rides

It wouldn't be a romantic holidays edit without Venice - and yet we suggest you research those off-the-beaten track parts of this floating city in addition to the classic sights. The Cannaregio district, for example, is a lovely place for romantic wanderings and yet is relatively untroubled by tourists, and the island of Burano is just as worthy of a visit as popular Murano.

3. Foodie Adventures in The Cotswolds, UK

• Best for: A chic countryside getaway

The Cotswolds is known for its bewitchingly pretty villages and beautiful countryside, but in recent years it's also gained a reputation as a foodie hotspot. Rather than (or in addition to, if you must) mapping out country walks, we suggest you plan a restaurant tour of the area, eating your way through innovative food made from fresh local produce.

Places to put on your list include The Wild Rabbit in Kingham, The Ox Barn at Thyme, The Trough Cafe at Daylesford and, of course, Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat'Saisons.

4. Pure Relaxation in The Maldives

• Best for: Luxurious island living

If there's anywhere more conducive to simply blissing out than The Maldives, we've yet to hear of it. There are many reasons this island nation remains one of the most popular honeymoon destinations - chief among them, wonderful weather, seductive scenery and resorts that are dedicated to pure indulgence.

Of course, if you tire of relaxing on powder-soft sands, spa treatments and cocktails under the stars, you can always amuse yourself with watersports or cooking classes, but we're not budging from our loungers.

Naturally, you need somewhere suitable special as your base - you'll be spending your whole time there, after all - so we recommend Baros Maldives for a luxurious getaway.

5. Getting Cultural in Berlin, Germany

• Best for: Art and culture fans

While enjoying a reputation for cool nightlife, Berlin doesn't often make most-romantic-city lists - a real oversight, because this city is full of romance. And if your idea of a perfect date involves a trip to a gallery or museum, you'll be in cultural heaven. Start with a trip to the Museuminsel, a veritable treasure trove outside and in.

6. Slowing It Down on a Greek Island

• Best for: Getting away from it all

Whether you choose glamorous Santorini or a more off-the-beaten-track option like Nisyrosi, the Greek Islands are the destination to choose for a romantic holiday that's all about slow living. We're talking lie-ins, long lunches and evenings spent planning the rest of your lives over some excellent local food and wine. Bliss.

7. Cycling in Provence, France

• Best for: Exploring rural France

The beauty of the Provencal countryside makes it a wonderful location for a two-wheeled adventure, stopping off at pretty villages to stock up on fresh produce for picnics and pulling over to admire the lavender fields if you're there in the right season.

Make sure you include a stay at the romantic Terre Blanche in your itinerary, for excellent food and a gorgeous spa.

8. Skiing in Kitzbühl, Austria

• Best for: Winter sports fans

If you're a couple that finds nothing more romantic than a week of powder, book your next skiing break in Kitzbühl. The medieval town itself is heart-meltingly pretty, with plenty of cosy restaurants for après-ski meals à deux. It's home to the notoriously difficult Streiff Downhill, but there are plenty of intermediate slopes to while away the days.

9. Diving in Saint Lucia

• Best for: Stunning scuba diving locations

Prefer to get your kicks under water? Saint Lucia is one of the world's top diving destinations, with clear waters teeming with tropical fish, and there are coral reefs and shipwrecks to explore. Want to brush up your skills? There are plenty of PADI dive centres here. Once you're back on dry land, there are some luxurious resorts for you to relax with your diving (and life) partner.

10. Getting Back to Nature in Iceland

• Best for: Spotting the Northern Lights

Reykjavik certainly has its charms, but after a couple of nights in the city, we recommend exploring Iceland's dramatic landscapes for some real outdoor romance. Whether you're chasing the Northern Lights, visiting an ice cave or hiking a subglacial volcano, you're bound to have some unforgettable experiences.

Make sure you book a stay at Deplar Farm, an intimate hideaway that has an incredible spa and is a great base for outdoor activities.

11. Spending Spa Time in London

• Best for: A couples' pamper session

There are many pleasures in London: the sights, the culture, the dining scene, the shopping. But for a romantic break in the city, we're recommending you focus on a couple's spa break. There are some wonderfully luxurious options here where you can easily spend a whole day, and most places offer couples' treatments.

12. Wine Tasting in the Douro Valley, Portugal

• Best for: Wine lovers

Want to learn more about wine together? Head to Portugal's Douro Valley and take a tour of the excellent wineries, all while surrounded by outstanding natural beauty. Many offer special experiences, such as picnic wine tastings and and grape-picking.

13. Partying in Dubrovnik

• Best for: Friendly nightlife scene

If your idea of a romantic weekend away involves glamorous nights out, you need to put Dubrovnik on your radar. Although this Croatian city may be small in size, it most definitely knows how to party in style. Its vibrant nightlife scene is concentrated around Dubrovnik’s Old Town, where you'll find everything from cool clubs tucked inside a medieval fortress to chic cliff-side bars with incredible views and great vibes.

14. Hot Air Ballooning in Cappadocia, Turkey

• Best for: Once-in-a-lifetime balloon ride

Cappadocia is the world's hot air ballooning hotspot, so if you fancy taking your love to new heights, this is the place.

15. Island Hopping in Thailand

• Best for: Desert island adventures

Thailand's islands are renowned for their beauty - which means, of course, that they attract large numbers of travellers. If you want to try somewhere a bit more off the beaten track, head to the Similan Islands.

This is a chain of 9 islands that are relatively easy to travel between should you fancy some island-hopping, and although they're not entirely undiscovered by the travel industry, you can expect fewer fellow travellers than at other destinations. There are no hotels here - accommodation is in campsites for bungalows.

16. Picnicking in Paris

• Best for: Foodie couples

Of course the city of love makes the list - there's so much romantic potential, from intimate dinners in candlelit restaurants to hand-in-hand strolls past iconic sights. As well as the obvious activities, however, make like a local and head to the banks of the River Seine for a picnic one afternoon.

You'll find plenty of delis around the city to put together a gourmet feast as you take in the views. There are some beautiful parks and squares for picnics, too - Parc des Buttes-Chaumont is particularly enchanting.

You'll want suitable swoon-worthy accommodation, so check out Le Bristol, voted Paris's most romantic hotel by Condé Nast Traveller.

17. Swimming with Pigs in The Bahamas

• Best for: Unique experiences

There's something so romantic about trying something totally new together. We doubt very much that either of you has swum with pigs before, so head to the Bahamas to give it a try. These super-cute swimming pigs can be found at Exuma, where you can interact with them in the water. After you've enjoyed your porcine adventure, you spend the rest of your holiday soaking up the Caribbean sun.

18. Horse Riding in Brazil

• Best for: Exploring on horseback

Travellers may associate Brazil with glorious beaches, but the country's countryside is just as Instagram-worthy. And the best way to explore it? On horseback! There are some fabulous tours available that take you through gorgeous cattle country, with nights at characterful fazendas.

19. St Petersburg in the Snow

• Best for: Majestic architecture

St Petersburg is one of the world's most beautiful cities, and it looks particularly magical in the snow, so if you can brave the cold, we recommend an early winter trip. Don't worry, there are plenty of cosy cafes, restaurants and bars to snuggle up in after a day marvelling at the majesty of the snow-covered architecture. 

20. Getting Active in Swedish Lapland

• Best for: Snowy scenery

Get that adrenalin flowing with some activities amid the dramatic landscape of Swedish Lapland, from cross-country skiing to a husky sled ride or a moose safari. 

Your accommodation has to be Arctic Bath, a floating spa hotel that was one of the year's most exciting openings. Not only can they organise activities for you, but the hotel itself is a triumph of modern design - and there's an exceptional spa for romantic relaxation.

21. Cruising in Turkey

• Best for: Sailing fans

No, we're not talking about a cruise ship - to see Turkey's famed Lycian Coast in true romantic style, charter a private gulet. These traditional wooden yachts come tricked out with luxe facilities, like hotels on water, and are the ideal way to explore hidden coves and secret beaches.

22. Whisky Tasting in Scotland

• Best for: Whisky aficionados

Scotland's 'whisky coast' has cinematically beautiful scenery, so make it the destination for your next romantic seaside break - with time built in at the famous distilleries, of course! We'd recommend Jura Whisky on the Isle of Jura and Lagavulin on the Isle of Islay.

23. Getting Away from It All on the Andaman Islands

• Best for: A secluded island getaway

These islands may be a long trip from the UK - a flight to India followed by a boat trip - but it's totally worth the journey if privacy is your priority. You'll find pristine beaches and jungle, plenty of wildlife and some barefoot-luxe hotels.

24. Rediscovering the City Break in Seville, Spain

• Best for: Vibrant city life

Feel like you've exhausted the romantic possibilities of a city escape? Make Seville your next urban adventure. This Southern Spanish city is a passionate and vibrant destination for a long weekend, with intricate architecture, a thriving nightlife and, of course, those famous flamenco shows.

Make your base the beautifully designed and perfectly located Triana House, which has just three rooms

25. Enjoying A-List Life in Mustique

• Best for: Luxury and privacy

The Caribbean island of Mustique enjoys a glamorous reputation as a favourite destination of royalty and A-listers alike, but in fact, it's a pleasingly laidback place for a romantic getaway. Most of the accommodation is self-catering, so you can get plenty of just-the-two-of-us time - but you may well spot a celeb when you do venture out.

26. Hiding Away on Your Own Island in Wales

• Best for: A remote romantic getaway

It turns out you don't have to be a billionaire to have a romantic holiday on a private island. Ynys Castell is a holiday house situated on its very own island, just off Anglesey. You can cross the tidal causeway to the mainland when the tide is right, but otherwise, it can just be the two of you!

27. Blissing Out in Bali, Indonesia

• Best for: Sunshine and beaches

It's a long way to Bali from the UK, but once you're there, you can do as much or as little as you want. Of course, there's much to explore, from verdant rice terraces to bustling markets, but you'll also find plenty of scope for pure relaxation on the wonderful beaches and in the many luxe-for-less resorts.

28. Losing Track of Time in Tuscany, Italy

• Best for: Chilled-out Italian living

The Tuscan countryside is heart-meltingly beautiful, making it the perfect destination for a holiday full of romance. The pace of life here is slow and easy, so you can truly get away from everyday stress and properly unwind. Hire a Vespa for a country excursion, linger over multi-course lunches and explore bewitching hilltop villages.

Tuscany is home to some seriously romantic countryside retreats. Among our favourites is Borgo Pignano, an elegant haven with a spa and elegant heated infinity pool. Guests can enjoy sunset cocktails on the terrace every evening.

29. Hiking in the Atlas Mountains, Morocco

• Best for: Outdoorsy couples

Hiking may not be everyone's cup of tea, but if it's something you both enjoy doing as a couple, the Atlas Mountains are a wonderfully scenic place to indulge your passion. We recommend pairing a few days in the mountains with some relaxation time in Marrakech.

30. The High Life in San Francisco

• Best for: Sightseeing and buzzing city life

One thing quickly becomes apparent in San Francisco: there are a lot of hills. Luckily, you can easily traverse the steep streets using the iconic cable cars, so you can experience everything this city has to offer without pulling a hamstring. From an excellent dining scene to iconic sights, there's so much to explore.

31. Exploring Cloud Forest in Costa Rica

• Best for: Breathtaking forests and wildlife

There's something incredibly romantic about making memories together that will last a lifetime - and a trip to Costa Rica's spectacular cloud forests certainly counts as unforgettable. Monteverde is the best known, and if you're wildlife lovers, you'll be in heaven, with over 100 species of mammal.

32. Adventuring in the Namib Desert

• Best for: Dramatic desert scenery

Sticking with the making-memories theme, head to Namibia to explore some of the world's most spectacular desert landscapes. As well as the stark desert scenery - including the massive dunes of Sossusvlei - you can actually go on safari in Etosha National Park.

Make your base the glorious Wolwedans Dunes Lodge, where the nine chalets are designed to let you sleep in luxury under the stars.

33. Truffle-Hunting in Bruges, Belgium

• Best for: World-famous chocolate

We're mainly thinking of truffles of the chocolate variety, which this bewitchingly pretty city is known for. However, you'll probably come across the fungi, too, if you book a romantic dinner in one of Bruges's many fine-dining restaurants.

34. Visiting the Taj Mahal, Agra, India

• Best for: Seeing one of the Seven Wonders of the World

Built by a 17th-century Mughal emperor as a tomb for his wife, the Taj Mahal is widely considered to be a symbol of everlasting love - and what could be more perfect for a romantic holiday? Yes, it will be full of tourists, but the Taj Mahal is so spectacular that it's definitely worth a visit.

If you have the time, make it part of a North Indian itinerary taking in Delhi and Jaipur, as an introduction to this magnificent country.

35. Road Tripping in New England, USA

• Best for: Cute couples' road trip

Pretend to be stars of your very own rom-com as you rent a car and explore the world-famous fall colours in New England, USA. There’s something eternally romantic about a road trip with your partner, and a self-drive trip around this idyllic and charmingly old-school part of America promises to be a romantic holiday to remember forever.

Hit the road and explore the beautiful countryside and little towns, as you’re treated to a blazing display of fall colours in fiery red and orange.

How to Make a Holiday Romantic

It’s easy to make a holiday romantic, whatever your budget and wherever the destination. Here’s how:

1. Go Somewhere New

A romantic holiday is all about making memories together, so try and book somewhere neither of you have been before. Exploring a new city or country together will make the trip away extra-special for both of you.

2. Do Something Unique

As well as visiting a new place, think about booking an exciting excursion or activity to up the romance on your holiday. Whether that’s horse riding along the beach together or splashing out on a 10-course taster menu at a Michelin-starred restaurant.

3. Build it Around Both Your Interests

Taking each other’s likes and dislikes into consideration when booking a couples’ holiday is crucial. While the thought of lying on a beach all day may be your idea of heaven, if your partner is more into sight-seeing it’s not going to be their idea of a romantic holiday. The ultimate couples’ getaway destination is one that caters to both of your interests.

4. Don’t Stress About Perfection

Let’s face it, despite your best efforts sometimes things can go a little off-plan on holiday. Whether that’s flight delays or bad weather, some parts of your romantic holiday will always be out of your hands, but instead of stressing about things, just embrace it. When you’re with the right person, even torrential train can be romantic!

How to be Romantic on Holiday

Looking for ways to be more romantic on holiday? We’ve got you covered.

5. Put Your Phone Away

Nothing is more romantic than giving you partner your full attention, fact. If you want to make this trip one to remember for all the right reasons, put your phone away and just be present for the holiday. It’s simple but can be an absolute relationship game-changer.

6. Listen and Compromise

While you may have a very clear idea in your head of how to be romantic on holiday, it’s important to listen to your partner to understand what would make them happy and feel loved on your trip. Romance is about listening and compromising if you need to, especially on holiday.

7. Give Space if Needed

You don’t need to be glued to one another to enjoy your trip away. It’s important to allow each other a bit of space, whether that’s an hour in the spa or just some quiet time alone reading by the pool.

8. Surprise Them

Even if you’ve meticulously planned this holiday together, try to organise a romantic surprise for your partner. It doesn’t have to be a massive gesture unless you really do want to go all out, but something to show you’ve thought of them and have gone out of your way to arrange something to make them happy is the most romantic thing of all.

Once you've chosen your trip, bookmark our ultimate packing checklist to ensure you're travelling with everything you need.