25 of the most romantic places in the world for couples' trips

02.01.24 by Travelex Insurance
Image credit: Getty Images
Looking for the best romantic vacations for couples? No matter what you’re celebrating — or who you’re celebrating with — here are some of the most romantic places in the world to explore with your special someone.

Planning a picture-perfect proposal or dreaming of a destination wedding with incredible views? Or maybe you’re traveling to celebrate an anniversary or Valentine’s Day or even escape on a dreamy honeymoon?

Whether you're looking for the best places to honeymoon or the best places to propose, check out our destination inspiration for romantic vacations for couples. These destinations offer the perfect photo backdrop, memorable sites to see, and cozy accommodations.

So, let’s dive into our ideas for the best trips for couples, so you can plan a romantic retreat where love is always in the air.

Discover the best places to:

5 of the best places to propose

Choosing a romantic proposal location can help add a magical touch to your special moment.

If you’re unsure where to pop the question, here are five of the best places to propose because of their beautiful backdrops:

1. Santorini, Greece: The caldera views, striking sunsets, and white-washed architecture of Santorini provide an idyllic and romantic setting for a proposal. Imagine getting down on one knee with the sun setting into the Aegean Sea behind you — it would be a moment as beautiful as your love story.

2. Manuel Antonio National Park, Costa Rica: Picture yourself popping the question as you hike through tropical trails, relax on a secluded beach, or enjoy a picnic while watching monkeys and sloths in their natural habitat. A proposal at this Costa Rica national park can be a memorable adventure that you and your partner will remember for a lifetime.

3. Banff National Park, Canada: Are you and your significant other nature-lovers? The jaw-dropping beauty of the Rockies reflected in one of this Canada park’s bright blue lakes makes this one of the best places to propose outdoors.

4. Cliffs of Moher, Ireland: For those seeking a dramatic setting, the rugged beauty of these cliffs makes for a stunning proposal backdrop. The scenery, steeped in natural beauty and ancient mythology, offers a proposal story that can be told for generations.

5. Cape Town, South Africa: With its blend of vibrant culture, natural beauty, and captivating history, Cape Town is one of the best places to propose. An engagement on top of the iconic Table Mountain, with a view of the city's breathtaking landscape beneath, is sure to be an unforgettable moment. You could even choose one of the city's world-class vineyards or beautiful beaches to pop the question.

A couple enjoying a trip to Santorini, Greece, one of the most romantic places in the world.

5 of the most romantic places in the world for a destination wedding

A destination wedding is a magical way to say, “I do”, surrounded by the beauty of an exotic locale. Plus, when it comes to destination weddings, the world is your oyster.

Here, we've put together a list of five of the most romantic places in the world to tie the knot:

1. Tuscany, Italy: Picture you and your significant other exchanging vows amidst rolling vineyards, rustic farmhouses, and historic castles. Tuscany, with its exquisite landscapes and world-famous wines, gives you a perfect backdrop for a fairytale wedding — and it could also be one of the most romantic vacations for couples attending your wedding.

2. Bali, Indonesia: Bali, known as the “Island of the Gods”, has no shortage of incredible wedding venues. From pristine beaches to lush tropical gardens and majestic cliff-top temples, Bali will surely add a touch of magic to your special day.

3. Queenstown, New Zealand: This town's breathtaking beauty, marked by rolling mountains, serene lakes, and lush vineyards, can add stunning natural beauty to your wedding ceremony. You’ll have a variety of beautiful venues to choose from in Queenstown, from luxury resorts and peaceful beaches to charming vineyards and historic churches.

4. Maui, Hawaii, USA: If you're dreaming of a beach wedding, Maui is one of the most romantic places in the world. Its stunning beaches, lush mountains, and tropical vibes make for an atmosphere of romance and serenity, ideal for a wedding.

5. Provence, France: Known for its lavender fields, charming villages, and vineyards, Provence has a picturesque and tranquil setting that works well for a dreamy countryside wedding. Plus, your guests can choose to also visit Paris, notably one of the most romantic places in the world, during their trip.

5 of the best places to honeymoon

Your honeymoon is an opportunity to celebrate your love in some of the most romantic places in the world.

Here are five of the best places to honeymoon that promise a romantic experience full of love, relaxation, and unforgettable memories:

1. Bora Bora, French Polynesia: You’ll love celebrating your new life together surrounded by turquoise lagoons, spectacular reefs, and the idyllic beaches of this South Pacific island. For a more luxurious visit, you can stay in an over-water bungalow and wake up to a blissful sunrise over the majestic Mt. Otemanu.

2. Paris, France: The “City of Love” is high on the list of the most romantic places in the world. It’s a classic honeymoon destination, offering a mix of art, culture, and cuisine. Whether you’re viewing the twinkling lights of the Eiffel Tower at night or having a picturesque picnic in the gardens of Versailles, Paris is a city that exudes romance at every corner. It’s also one of the best places to honeymoon because you can easily get to other countries in Europe for more sightseeing.

3. Venice, Italy: As one of the most romantic places in the world, the allure of Venice's winding canals and historic architecture make it an enchanting honeymoon destination. Experience a romantic gondola ride, explore the city's rich culture, and take in the breathtaking views from the Bridge of Sighs.

4. Meeru Island, Maldives: If your idea of a perfect honeymoon involves white sandy beaches, bright blue waters, and an abundance of marine life, there's no place like the Maldives. Stay in a private villa perched above the crystal-clear waters of the Indian Ocean and immerse yourself in the tranquility of this tropical paradise.

5. Kyoto, Japan: For couples seeking a blend of tradition, serenity, and natural beauty, Kyoto is a great choice for romantic trips. Discover the city's ancient temples, walk through the mesmerizing Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, and enjoy a traditional tea ceremony. If you time your Japan trip right, the cherry blossoms in spring offer a truly romantic backdrop for couples on vacation.

A couple enjoying a trip to Paris, France, one of the most romantic places in the world.

5 of the best trips for couples celebrating an anniversary

An anniversary is a time to celebrate the love and commitment between two people, and what better way to mark this special occasion than with a trip to one of the most romantic places in the world?

Here is our inspiration for a romantic trip that’ll make for an unforgettable anniversary:

1. Lake Como, Italy: If you’re looking for the most romantic vacations for couples, Lake Como has dramatic scenery and Renaissance-era architecture that provide an ideal setting for an anniversary celebration. Its tranquil waters and charming villas make for a serene escape, while its gourmet Italian eateries and historic landmarks offer couples a chance to immerse themselves in the local culture.

2. Napa Valley, California, USA: With its picturesque hillside vineyards where couples can enjoy each other’s company in tranquility, Napa is one of the best destinations for romantic trips like anniversary celebrations. Its world-class wineries offer impressive wine-tasting experiences, while its gourmet restaurants and luxury spas can turn an anniversary trip into a romantic and rejuvenating retreat.

3. Bruges, Belgium: If you're a fan of fairy-tale settings, Bruges, with its cobbled streets, medieval buildings, and picturesque canals, is perfect for romantic trips. Don't forget to sample some of the world-famous Belgian chocolates for a sweet anniversary treat.

4. St. Moritz, Switzerland: One of the best trips for couples is experiencing this destination’s stunning alpine landscapes and luxurious amenities. Whether it's indulging in a range of winter sports, enjoying summer hikes, savoring gourmet dining, or simply reveling in the charm of luxurious hotels, this destination is a great choice for a memorable and enchanting anniversary celebration.

5. Barcelona, Spain: With its alluring blend of history, art, and vibrant street life, Barcelona is as a vibrant and romantic destination for an anniversary trip. Its architectural marvels, world-class dining, lively nightlife, and sandy beaches set the stage for a romantic and unforgettable anniversary getaway.

5 of the most romantic places in the world to spend Valentine’s Day

Valentine's Day can be a special time to express your love, and what better way to do that than to go on a romantic getaway with your partner?

Whether you prefer a city brimming with culture or a tranquil beach setting, here are our top five Valentine's Day destinations for romantic vacations for couples.

1. Florence, Italy: Known as the cradle of Renaissance art, Florence is one of the most romantic places in the world with its stunning architecture, iconic art, and delicious Italian cuisine. Enjoy a sunset walk across the Ponte Vecchio bridge or share a gelato in Piazza della Signoria for an unforgettable Valentine's Day experience.

2. St. Lucia, Caribbean: If you're both fans of tropical beaches and crystal-clear waters, then St. Lucia may be the perfect Valentine's Day destination. At this Caribbean travel hotspot, you can spend your days lounging on sandy beaches, exploring lush rainforests, or soaking in a mud bath at the Sulphur Springs.

3. Quebec City, Canada: For those who prefer romantic trips in a winter wonderland, Quebec City has a lot to offer. Its cobblestone streets, charming boutiques, and French-inspired cuisine, all set against the backdrop of snow-covered buildings, make Quebec City one of the most romantic places in the world.

4. Seychelles, Africa: This archipelago in the Indian Ocean is a paradise for beach lovers. The pristine beaches, secluded coves, and exotic wildlife make a Seychelles trip one of the most romantic vacations for couples seeking a serene and intimate Valentine's Day celebration.

5. Vienna, Austria: Vienna's baroque streetscapes and imperial palaces are an enchanting scene for a Valentine's Day getaway. The city's rich history, combined with its love for music and coffee house culture, create a romantic atmosphere that's hard to resist.

A couple hiking on a grassy hill during their trip, which may be to one of the most romantic places in the world.

Let love soar on a flight to one of the most romantic places in the world

The world is full of romantic spots where you and your loved one can celebrate love and togetherness. Whether it's indulging in a luxurious wellness retreat, exploring beautiful landscapes, immersing in rich culture, or simply enjoying each other's company with stunning views, these locations can give you unforgettable experiences. So go ahead, choose a destination that matches your shared interests and dreams, and make memories that will last a lifetime.

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