Romance can be found in every corner of the world, from majestic highlands to small, canal-filled islands. Indeed, you can’t go wrong as long as you travel with the one you love. But to make some magical memories, you’ll want to start in some of the best places for couples to travel.
Gather ideas from some of these romantic vacation spots for couples. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself tempted to book your next trip before making it through the list. But, don’t worry—we won’t judge.
Table of Contents
- 1. Edinburgh, Scotland
- 2. Milan, Italy
- 3. San Francisco
- 4. Marrakesh, Morocco
- 5. Ubud, Bali
- 6. Porto, Portugal
- 7. Venice, Italy
- 8. Antibes, France
- 9. The Island of Hawai’i
- 10. New York City
- Next Vacay: We Find You the Cheapest Flights to Anywhere
1. Edinburgh, Scotland
Enchantment and romance await in the land of bagpipes and unicorns. Edinburgh shines as the perfect destination for a romantic trip.
Sprawling estates and imposing fortresses characterize Edinburg as much as its quaint shops and charming pubs.
Meander along the Water of Leith Walkway, taking in lovely homes and enchanting alleys while peeking in on art galleries playing host to impressive exhibitions.
The heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, the Royal Mile, beckons couples to explore magical sights from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
Lush gardens, serene canals, and opulent architecture will ensure couples fall for Scotland as they fall for each other.
Best Place for Couples to Stay
For an unmatched romantic escape, take a journey aboard the Royal Scotsman.
Are you curious to know what makes Scotland one of the best places for couples to travel? We’d argue that few better ways to do just that exist than from the comfort of an all-inclusive Belmond train. Truly, an unmatched manner of experiencing the beauty of the Scottish highlands.
2. Milan, Italy
Couples could travel only around Italy and find themselves treated to some of the most romantic places in the world. Think of the dazzling coasts of Amalfi and the rolling hills of Tuscany.
Nestled among the picturesque valleys and magnificent lakes of the Lombardi region, Milan is no exception.
Known as the city of haute couture, Milan shouts opulence, from the gothic spires of the Duomo di Milano to the towering Arco della Pace.
Explore the elegance of San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore before experiencing a night of Italian classics at the Teatro alla Scala.
Wind your way through Quadrilatero d’Oro shops and relax on the grounds of Sempione Park, or escape into the vineyards and rolling countryside north of Milan. After all, nothing says a romantic trip like fine dining in the idyllic countryside.
Best Place for Couples to Stay
Just an hour north of Milan, retreat to paradise at L’Albereta. This 9th-century country villa sits tucked away among the scenic hills and vineyards of Franciacorta. Dramatically draped in ivy, this dreamy chateaux is one of Milan’s best vacation spots for couples.
3. San Francisco
San Francisco teems with life, romance, and a unique aura that’s hard to categorize with words. But step foot inside the city, and you’ll feel the atmosphere immediately shift to something magical.
Hike the rugged cliffs of Land’s End or hunt for vintage items in Haight-Ashbury. The blooming San Francisco Botanical Garden was made for romantic strolls as much as San Fran’s waterfront restaurants were made for savoring meals with the one you love. But, of course, nothing screams San Francisco like a walk across the Golden Gate Bridge before enjoying stunning city views from Kirby Cove.
On top of all that, San Francisco holds more treasures to be discovered. Couples will delight in the endless number of places to travel just outside the city for even more romantic getaways.
Journey south along Big Sur to enjoy California’s breathtaking Central Coast. Plan for romantic evenings along the way at villas full of rustic charm and sporting private hot tub views. Or, head north of the Bay Area to hop aboard the Napa Valley Wine Train.
Don’t be surprised if you end up leaving your heart in San Francisco. But don’t worry—it’ll be waiting for you when you return.
Best Place for Couples to Stay
A cozy stay at Noe’s Nest Bed and Breakfast will take any romantic getaway to new heights.
This Victorian B&B provides history, balcony views, a private garden, and more to create the perfect romantic vibe for a weekend away.
4. Marrakesh, Morocco
Marrakesh is a dazzlingly bright and delightfully mad city. It’s also one of the most romantic places in Africa, perfect for couples to travel on their next getaway.
Full of color and character, the city will captivate you from the first step inside its iconic walls. Lush gardens and bustling souks sit around every corner, from the bold blues and striking yellows of Jardin Majorelle to the liveliness and vibrancy of Souk Semmarine.
In addition to its radiance and vitality, Marrakesh is known for its splendor. Grand palaces and luxurious spas dot the landscape alongside relaxing hammams, gorgeous riads, and breathtaking structures like the Bahia Palace and Koutoubia Mosque.
Just when you think you know everything Marrakesh has to offer, gain a new perspective of the rolling desert sands and towering Atlas mountains with a sunrise hot air balloon ride.
Who would have thought one of the most romantic spots in the city was up in the air? But viewed from the sky, the city’s wonders will take your breath away.
Best Place for Couples to Stay
A thousand and one nights in this alluring North African Kingdom still couldn’t do it justice. But a stay at La Sultana Marrakech will provide a taste of the magic and mystery of Morocco.
La Sultana allows guests to experience a living museum. Located within the Medina of Marrakesh, this boutique hotel provides a stunning look at traditional Moroccan art and architecture amid breathtaking views and incredible luxury. If the hot air balloon and camel rides through the desert don’t do it, a stay here will ensure this is one of the best places you and your partner travel together as a couple.
5. Ubud, Bali
A charming town on the island of Bali, Ubud is a shimmering emerald landscape. Dense rainforests open into sprawling rice terrace fields and part before magnificent mountains.
Jaw-dropping views and fascinating stories await you in Ubud.
The city is known as Bali’s art and cultural center, and visits to the Ubud Palace and Saraswati Temple are a must. However, you can’t miss the traditional performances and crafts that thrive in Ubud.
Catch a Kecak fire dance performance while out to dinner. Or, join a workshop to learn how to make traditional spicy dishes and decorative batik textiles.
The Ubud Monkey Forest is a perfect place to spend quality time with your partner and the friendly primates at this sanctuary for the Balinese long-tailed macaque. You’ll encounter plenty of monkey companions as you wander the grounds and explore the hidden temples.
Among the best places for couples to turn their romantic travel into an enriching cultural experience, Ubud cements Bali as a favorite destination.
Best Place for Couples to Stay
For an enchanting and romantic destination unlike any other, escape into the forest at Aura House.
This eco-friendly bamboo villa sits like a bird in the trees above the Ayung River, offering gorgeous views and a hidden oasis that’s all your own.
6. Porto, Portugal
Endless tourist attractions and vibrant nightlife don’t always make for the most romantic getaways. So, what does? A charming city filled with sweeping views and an easygoing, unhurried atmosphere.
Porto offers a quiet place for couples to retreat and enjoy their time traveling together. Lovers can meander from one destination to the next without haste.
Admire the grand buildings along the Avenida dos Aliados or slip away to quieter neighborhoods, drifting from Ribeira’s colorful streets to Foz’s coastal views.
Sun and sand await at Praia dos Ingleses while couples can share a walk and a kiss under the iconic Pérgola da Foz found at Praia do Molhe.
While in Porto, visiting the Douro Valley is a must to see this world heritage site up close. One of Portugal’s most beautiful vacation spots, couples will delight in the intimate tranquility, punctuated only by cheerful birdsong.
Getting there by car is just a short drive from Porto. Or, you can plan a longer romantic getaway cruising along the Douro River.
Best Place for Couples to Stay
Elevate your next romantic getaway to Portugal with a stay at a luxury hotel. Perched on a hilltop overlooking the gorgeous city of Porto, The Yeatman Hotel offers a stunning look at the city and the River Douro.
All one hundred and nine bedrooms face the same direction, each with an open terrace, making your balcony the perfect place to sit back, enjoy a glass of Porto wine, and soak in the view.
7. Venice, Italy
Italy is one of the most romantic countries in the world. So, of course, no list of the best places for couples to travel would be complete without Venice.
La Serenissima boasts unbelievable vacation spots, centuries-old architecture, and rich stories spawned by more than a millennia of history. The winding canals of Venice snake around stunning palaces and ornate churches. Glide under the Bridge of Sighs and along the Grand Canal, passing by beautiful museums like Ca’ Rezzonico and striking palaces like Ca’ d’Oro.
On land, walk across enchanting bridges and follow narrow pathways to discover the heart of Venice.
St. Mark’s Square boasts many treasures, from the magnificent St. Mark’s Basilica to the Doge Palace. Explore in the light of day before coming back in the evenings to enjoy a fantastic night under the dazzling lights of the Piazza as an orchestra serenades diners with beautiful music.
If the crowds of Venice become too much, contemplate taking one or two romantic trips out of the city.
Just a short way north of Venice lies Murano. This island city is linked by bridges and is famous the world over for its incredible history of glasswork. Meanwhile, further east, the beautiful island of Burano awaits with colorful structures and delicate lace works.
Best Place for Couples to Stay
A short stroll from St. Mark’s square and along the Riva degli Schiavoni brings couples to Hotel Londra Palace, one of the most romantic hotels in Venice. No two rooms are alike, ensuring a unique and luxurious experience.
Waterfront views and rooftop seating bring the lagoon’s beauty into grand panoramas. Once you’ve had your fill of the scenery, you can feed your appetite with a romantic meal at Do Leoni restaurant inside the hotel.
8. Antibes, France
Couples can find every reason to travel to France, including places that carry a taste of southern charm you might not expect to find thousands of miles from the romantic cities of South Carolina or Georgia. Nevertheless, charm and elegance can be found in spades along the French Riviera, the epitome of European retreats and home to some of the best romantic getaways.
Along the Côte d’Azur, lovers will find the idyllic town of Antibes. Modern, luxury yachts sit like sentinels in Port Vauban, overlooked by Old Town, with its quaint brick buildings and quiet cobblestone streets.
Wander Picasso’s trail and discover inspiration from the same views that captured the attention of the world-renowned artist. Or, make your way down to Le Sentier du Littoral, Cap d’Antibes. Wind your way along the rocky cliffs and scenic pictures of the sea to hunt down the perfect spot for a private picnic.
La Salis Beach is also one of the most romantic places in Antibes and is perfect for watching the sunrise.
The perfect way to cap off any day can be found on the water with a sunset cruise. Or, rent your own yacht and enjoy a romantic dinner for two out on Antibes’ shining blue sea.
Best Place for Couples to Stay
A retreat for artists since the 1870s, Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc is over a century old. But that doesn’t mean it’s lost any of its original charms. A true dream along the Riviera, this hotel earns its spot among the best places for couples traveling to Antibes, with jaw-dropping views and sprawling grounds that spill out into the sea.
Immaculate gardens and private bays will make you feel like you’ve stepped into your own private oasis and will make Antibes a romantic vacation for the ages.
9. The Island of Hawai’i
A land of fire and water, Hawaii is one of the hottest destinations to travel. Lush green forests, cascading falls, and some of the world’s most beautiful beaches ensure Hawaii is well-known as a paradise of the Pacific Ocean.
The Big Island doesn’t spur as many romantic vacations as its sister isles. However, that’s not for lack of romantic things to do. The island’s biggest draw is the Volcanoes National Park, which visitors frequent at night to see glowing plumes of red steam and flowing lava.
Because it’s Hawaii, you’ll find plenty of beaches to relax under the sun. Try spotting turtles on Punalu’u black sand beach, snorkeling off the white sands of Hāpuna beach, and visiting one of only four green beaches in the world at Papakōlea.
Whether strolling the tranquil Liliuokalani Gardens or hiking to epic viewpoints on Waipi’o Valley, the Big Island is a cradle of natural beauty and a playground for outdoor enthusiasts.
For once-in-a-lifetime experiences, couples can travel to one of the best places on the island, Kalae, to stand at the southernmost tip of the island and the US. You and your partner can also attempt the South Point Cliff jump or sit back and admire the brave souls who go fearlessly into the water.
Best Place for Couples to Stay
Follow the sweet sound of birdsong and frog chirps to a cottage tucked into the wilds of the rainforest. Volcano Rainforest Retreat sits just minutes away from the Volcanoes National Park, perfect for morning views of lava glowing in the dark.
Discover peace and serenity among the retreat cottages as you experience your stay on this living, ever-evolving volcanic island.
10. New York City
Romantic weekend getaways were made for New York City—or perhaps the city is made for them. Regardless, there are few better vacation spots for couples than the Big Apple.
A feast for the senses, New York possesses a little bit of everything, from the high glamor of Madison Avenue to the quirky fun of spots like Alice’s Tea Cup. Fancy a bite? Dine in Michelin-star restaurants or nab a quick meal from a food stall dotting the New York Street corners. Check out Smorgasbord on the Williamsburg waterfront or shop for unique souvenirs in weekend flea markets.
Duck in and out of narrow avenues hiding impressive street art or take a more formal tour of museums filled with grand works of art procured from internationally renowned artists.
While Central Park offers a green sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle of spots like the Brooklyn Bridge and Times Square, you can still admire the skyscrapers from Central Park Lake.
However, you may find yourself more interested in what lies within the park than outside it, from the charming Belvedere Castle to the magical Shakespeare Garden.
Best Place for Couples to Stay
Open since 1930, The Pierre exudes timeless elegance in one of the oldest cities in America. Of course, that’s what makes it one of the best places for couples to travel in the US.
Eye-catching details adorn the building inside and out, adding to the opulent feel, while customized picnic baskets from the kitchen add to the romantic atmosphere. Capped off by luxury suites with stunning views of Central Park, The Pierre offers couples an unforgettable stay.
Next Vacay: We Find You the Cheapest Flights to Anywhere
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