Whether you’re planning a honeymoon, an anniversary trip or just a romantic getaway, these destinations will have you falling in love all over again. From secluded island escapes to quaint European villages, these are our top travel picks for romance.
1. Bora Bora
This idyllic island in the South Pacific allows couples to truly get away from it all. Bora Bora is an unspoiled paradise surrounded by a turquoise lagoon and lined with luxurious overwater bungalows. You and your loved one can enjoy snorkeling and scuba diving in the protected coral reef, enjoy a dinner under the stars, and simply lay on the beach and do nothing at all.
2. Kauai
Hawaii is one of the most popular honeymoon destinations in the world, and Kauai is one of its most romantic islands. Kauai is full of natural beauty and the perfect island for couples who want to escape the crowds and truly enjoy nature. Picturesque mountains, gorgeous waterfalls, secluded beaches, and massive sea cliffs towering over the ocean all make for a picture-perfect getaway that will take your breath away. And if you still want to be pampered, don’t worry – Kauai is also home to some of the most luxurious resorts in Hawaii.
3. Nantucket
Nantucket is the perfect romantic getaway for couples looking to make a quick escape from their busy lives. The island is only a few hours by boat (shorter, with a high-speed ferry) or a 45-minute plane ride from Boston. Once you arrive, you’ll immediately start to relax. This island paradise is a slice of Americana with its cobblestone streets, charming boutiques, and amazing seafood. Explore the island by bike, and then bring a picnic and a bottle of wine to the beach while you watch the sunset over the sparkling blue ocean.
4. Maldives
This one-of-a-kind tropical destination in the middle of the Indian Ocean feels like it was just made for romance. Its unique landscape features 26 natural atolls that together form a natural barrier – so the water is crystal clear – that turquoise color you’ve always dreamed of. Couples can stay in one of its many luxury resorts featuring overwater bungalows complete with private plunge pools, waterslides into the ocean, and transparent floors so you can watch the fish beneath you. If you are looking for privacy, relaxation, and total seclusion, the Maldives is for you.
5. The Swiss Alps
If cozying up with your loved one next to a fireplace after a long day on the slopes sounds like your idea of romance, then the Swiss Alps may be the romantic destination of your dreams. It’s breathtaking mountain scenery, peaceful pastures, world-class skiing, and quaint villages make for an ideal winter escape for two. St. Moritz is one of the most popular spots for couples with several high-end resorts and rustic lodges to choose from - complete with indoor pools, health spas, beautiful gardens, and gourmet restaurants.
6. Amalfi Coast
Italy’s Amalfi Coast is one of the most iconic romantic destinations in the world. Its stunning seaside villages are carved into the cliffs overlooking the sea, making it the perfect backdrop for a proposal or a honeymoon celebration. Positano is one of the most popular villages on the coast for couples due to its top-rated hotels and famous Italian cuisine. Couples can escape on a yacht ride and enjoy a dip in the Mediterranean before coming back to dinner in an open-air café with fresh, homemade pasta and the best limoncello you’re ever tasted.
7. Santorini
Santorini is known as the most romantic island in Greece which is probably why it’s also one of the most popular honeymoon destinations in the world. Couples can sit back and enjoy the view from a private balcony overlooking the iconic whitewashed buildings that dot the coastline of the sparkling blue Aegean Sea. Many hotels also offer suites with private plunge pools and room service, so you can make the most of your time together.
8. Charleston, SC
Charleston, SC was named one of the “Most Romantic Destinations in the South” by Southern Living magazine, and for good reason. Its horse-drawn carriages, historic homes, cobblestone streets and southern cuisine make it the perfect spot in the U.S. to escape for a long weekend of romance. If you and your partner are foodies, be sure to check out Charleston’s Annual Wine & Food Festival which put Charleston on the map as a culinary destination.
9. Paris
There’s no way to talk about romance without mentioning Paris – arguably the most romantic city in the world. Take an evening cruise down the River Seine, enjoy champagne at the top of the Eiffel Tower, visit the Wall of Love in Montmartre, enjoy a picnic in a secret garden, or simply wander around the streets and enjoy Paris’ world-famous cuisine while making memories of a lifetime with your love.
10. The Cotswolds, England
There’s a reason so many romantic movies feature England’s Cotswolds region as a backdrop for falling in love (Pride and Prejudice, Bridget Jones’s Diary, The Holiday). Its picturesque countryside, charming villages, and secluded bed and breakfasts make it the perfect spot for a couple to get away and enjoy the simple things in life.
11. Sonoma County, CA
World-famous vineyards, fairytale castles, and European-style chateaus make California’s Sonoma County the perfect escape for couples looking to stay a little closer to home. This scenic region of California features more than 400 wineries and is also home to breathtaking beaches and secluded resorts tucked amongst the coastal redwood trees. Tour the wine caves and raise a glass to your love at some of Sonoma’s one-of-a-kind wineries on this list.
12. Seychelles
Kick your romance up a notch with a visit to this popular bucket-list destination for couples. The Seychelles islands are a 115-island archipelago in the Indian Ocean that offers couples the chance to escape to a world of untouched natural beauty. One of its beaches, Anse Source d’Argen, is considered one of the best beaches in the world with pink sands, towering granite boulders, and calm shallow waters perfect for wading.
13. Kyoto
Japan’s capital city is known as one of the most romantic spots in all of Asia and has become a hotspot for marriage proposals. Kyoto is famous for its bamboo forests, imperial gardens, Buddhist temples, incredible food, and welcoming people. Couples should visit the Kiyomizu-dera Temple which is known for bringing good fortune for love and romance. One of the best times to visit is between March 15 – April 15 when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, making them the perfect backdrop for a couple’s photoshoot.
14. Northern Lights in Finland
For a truly other-worldly experience, snuggle up in one of Finland’s famous glass igloos and watch nature’s light show, the Aurora Borealis, from the comfort and warmth of your own bed. The best time of year to spot the Northern Lights in Finland is from mid-August to early April – with fall and spring being the absolute best. There are several hotels that offer these glass igloos, but Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort is one of the top-rated resorts in the area.
15. Antigua
The Caribbean has long been a popular spot for romantic getaways. Sandy beaches, warm turquoise waters, delicious food, and all-inclusive resorts make for a perfect vacation for you and your loved one. Antigua is often one of the top choices for couples due to its classic-paradise feel, 300+ white-sandy beaches, and top resorts including adults-only and all-inclusive options. Looking to get away to Antigua? Enter for a chance to win a romantic holiday escape for two here.
Have you visited any of these destinations? Did we miss your favorite romantic destination? Email us at winniwanderer@winni.com. We’d love to hear from you!
By Staff Contributor
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