Just as people are drawn to wildly unique destinations all around the world, romance is not one-size-fits-all.
Sparks fly for different reasons, and there are elements of a vacation that feel almost universally special for partners to enjoy together.
Perhaps the beauty of the best honeymoons, engagement trips, and anniversary extravaganzas is experiencing somewhere new hand in hand.
Whether it’s a confection of technicolor facades lining cobblestone streets, pagodas and temples rising above lush forests, or a desert studded with rare wildlife, many destinations are ideal for romantic exploits. It doesn’t hurt when there’s bubbly and mind-blowing food involved, too.
Here are 11 destinations that speak to a variety of couples and offer that exciting sense of discovery imbued with romance.
Bali, Indonesia
So much of Southeast Asia is seductive, if only for having so many distinct environments that feel so otherworldly and far removed from home.
Indonesia’s jewel of an island, Bali, exemplifies that. However, there’s a multitude of additional reasons this mystical paradise (and many other destinations in the region) dependably delivers magic to those who visit.
There are golden and black sand beaches, Jurassic jungles, monkey-laden Hindu temples, volcanoes, delicious cuisine, a remarkable restaurant scene and thousands of spas. There’s also a myriad of active pursuits for every type of traveler — surfing, cycling, hiking, cooking and snorkeling.
Bali’s resorts are famously luxurious. Many offer standalone villas with private pools that provide plenty of privacy to couples who savor the region’s signature indoor-outdoor style of accommodation.
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One of the best things about the island is the possibility of choosing your own adventure, so to speak. There are hot neighborhoods that feel more Western and touristed — Canggu and Seminyak, for example. Others, such as Ubud, are also very popular yet sprinkle doses of Balinese culture, too. Sanur is quiet and peaceful, Uluwatu is heaven for wellness junkies, Nusa Dua is a resort haven, and areas like Manggis are a lovely blend of nature and authenticity.
Where to stay
On the southern coast near Uluwatu, Bulgari Resort Bali is accessed via a funicular to a private beach club on one of the most pristine ribbons of coastline on the island. There’s plenty that seduces, including fine jewelry (and jewel-like chocolates, made in-house), deluxe pool villas with ocean views, and the Italian-meets-Bali prix fixe dinner at Il Ristorante — Luca Fantin. Rates start from $1,350 per night.
Related: 15 dream-worthy Bali hotels to book now
One of the only adults-only resorts on the island is also one of its newest and most exhilarating. Buahan, a Banyan Tree Escape, blends villas with large pools and no walls — just breezy curtains for privacy from the rainforest. It also boasts an exquisite zero-waste, plant-focused restaurant and bar, a waterfall for thrilling dips, and an open-air spa for dreamy treatments. Rates start from $1,550 per night.
Paris
It’s a classic for a reason. Paris, aka the City of Light, is also commonly referred to as the City of Love.
The very energy of the French capital is like a vintage romance — you can almost imagine yourself appearing in black and white, taking in iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe.
Lovers for decades have put their own lock on the Wall of Love and strolled arm in arm through the decadent grounds of the Palace of Versailles and Louvre Museum.
Related: 11 things I learned during my trip to Paris
Beyond the landmarks that give Paris its charm, the city’s dining scene is simply stupendous, with enough dimly lit, tucked-away gems for sharing French cuisine across a tiny table as there are famed eateries at which to pair plates with wine from some of the most beloved regions in France. A starlit walk hits differently when it’s along the glittering Seine.
Where to stay
In the Left Bank’s artsy Latin Quarter, near Notre Dame Cathedral and Luxembourg Garden, Hotel Dame des Arts is a cinematic boutique-style hotel with a to-die-for rooftop, Mexican fusion restaurant and spa treatment room. Rates start from $367 per night.
With generously sized rooms, an impressive five Michelin stars and gorgeous art deco architecture, the 1928 Four Seasons Hotel George V, steps from the Champs-Elysees, feels like a beautiful trip back in time — and a splurge. Rates start from $1,834 per night.
Related: The best hotels in Paris
Big Sur, California
When it comes to epic coastal drives, it’s hard to imagine anything beating Big Sur and the 90-mile stretch north from Hearst Castle to Carmel-by-the-Sea.
Rent a vintage convertible to experience it all the most idyllic way — those foggy sea views, redwood-topped vistas and dramatic cove after dramatic cove. Beyond simply cruising, there are picnic spots, hikes, scenic overlooks and remote beaches to savor a deux.
Related: Driving one of America’s best road trips: 3 days in Big Sur
Along with being one of Mother Nature’s true triumphs in the United States, this region is particularly well known as a honeymoon destination due in part to some legendary hotels with unmatchable views, hospitality and amenities.
Where to stay
Post Ranch Inn is beyond famous as Highway 1’s most luxurious and acclaimed hotel, an escape designed for romance that doesn’t allow anyone under 18 years of age. Extending nearly 100 acres, it’s a reserve covered with redwoods and meadows, ocean-view pools and hot tubs and some of the most unique guest dwellings (including treehouses) of any hotel. The restaurant, Sierra Mar, is a destination in and of itself. Rates here start from $2,250 per night.
Updated several years ago, Alila Ventana Big Sur has won praise for its take on ultra-luxury hospitality — 1,200 feet above the Pacific Ocean. It’s also adults-only, which makes for a secluded, sexy stay in any of the 65 accommodations, which include glamping. Accommodations stretch across a vast property, making it perfect for stargazing. Rates start around $1,300 per night for double occupancy, including all meals and various activities. World of Hyatt members can book this Category 8 property from 35,000 to 45,000 points per night.
Related: The 16 best all-inclusive resorts in the US for a spectacular vacation
French Polynesia
With its spectacular water in shades of bold turquoise, cobalt and pale aquamarine, and seemingly endless island stretches of silken sand fringed with palm trees, the islands of French Polynesia feel lifted from a dream.
Add to that deliciously fresh seafood, a relaxed vibe and spectacular resorts that put all that natural beauty within easy reach. The honeymoon sweet spot is about having exactly what you want — tropical cocktails, all the poisson cru you can handle, couples massages and snorkeling adventures — when you want it. A lot of that starts with the resort since, in French Polynesia, there are typically not a ton of off-property explorations that can be done independently.
Where to stay
Relais & Chateaux retreat Le Taha’a by Pearl Resorts has hosted plenty of famous couples for their own romantic holidays over the years on the private islet of Motu Tautau. Polynesian style is on full display across the property, which comprises 58 suites and villas, some overwater and in view of more touristed Bora Bora. The snorkeling is truly epic, while the food is fine, and the spa treatments are stress-melting. Rates start from $895 per night.
Related: Which should you choose? 5 top Bora Bora resorts and how to book
Thatched-roof skylit overwater villas are a specialty of Conrad Bora Bora Nui, where the Polynesian dream is alive in the form of tiki torch–lit dinners on the sand, swimming with sharks, intimate beach picnics and a spa using Biologique Recherche products. Rates start from $1,190 or 120,000 Hilton Honors points per night.
South Africa
Lovey-dovey vacations don’t only take place on a white sand beach — they happen amid wine vineyards and wildlife, too.
South Africa is a mecca for both in a major way with the vibrant cities of Cape Town and Johannesburg, both worthwhile and natural wonders that have the power to blow anyone away. The Cape Winelands is one of the world’s premier places to sip vino, not to mention the most picturesque, with jagged mountains that make for stunning sunsets framing world-class wineries and elegant restaurants.
Throughout the country, with a beach-studded coastline, teeming forests, wide-open savannas and starkly beautiful deserts, nature puts on its show. That’s true for the local fauna, too, which includes the famous Big Five but also so many other rare and fascinating species. South Africa is home to incredible options for safaris, as luxurious as you can imagine and also as rustic.
Related: How to choose a sustainable African safari
Where to stay
The picture of bucolic heaven is Babylonstoren, an old Cape Dutch farm plus a hotel, garden, vineyard, bakery, spa, and everything else one could imagine. Time slows down on this sprawling property, and days are filled with mouthwatering eats and free-flowing wine. Rates start from $539 per night.
Otherworldly and awesome, The Motse at Tswalu, the largest private game reserve in the country, is an unbelievable destination for animal enthusiasts to soak up privileged private sightings of cheetahs, meerkats and more while also experiencing once-in-a-lifetime dining at Klein Jan in the midst of the red sand. All-inclusive rates start from $1,870 per person per night.
Todos Santos, Mexico
On the west coast of Mexico’s Baja Peninsula, an easy hour’s drive north of Cabo San Lucas, the surf and fishing town of Todos Santos is a sleeper-hit destination for couples.
Unlike Cabo, there are far fewer tourists, resorts and hotels in this “pueblo magico,” as it’s known. Instead, at the foothills of the Sierra de la Laguna Mountains, it feels gloriously off the beaten path and authentic — you may very well see donkeys on the beach.
There are galleries alongside the cute, casual restaurants that line colorful streets and many places to try excellent margaritas. The beaches are picture-perfect, with waves for surfers of all levels, whales to watch for in the winter, and baby sea turtles to help release with a local nonprofit. Boutique hotel options, especially, make this destination so appealing, offering well-rounded experiences with sexy accommodations.
With 32 rooms and suites, a happening central pool and a restaurant/bar, Hotel San Cristobal Baja, right on the beach, is an aesthetically pleasing place for couples to find privacy or make new friends with other in-the-know adult travelers — kids under age 12 aren’t allowed. Rates start from $605 per night.
Maldives
The most epic place to enjoy the cyan splendors of the Indian Ocean is undoubtedly the Maldives, an archipelagic nation made up of 26 atolls; chains of coral islands that are among the most photogenic in the world.
From above, the effect is like pearls in a chain of undulating jade water. In fact, a holiday here arguably starts the minute you board your flight since the scenery en route to each resort is so stupendous.
Related: The best way to get to the Maldives on points and miles
Every resort is essentially on its own private island — or several. The hospitality across the Maldives is truly next level, as locals treat each guest as an honored visitor to their home. It’s a place for decadent meals (like local Maldivian lobster), palatial overwater villas, plus outrageously clear blue water for swimming with tropical fish, manta rays and even whale sharks, depending on the season and location. Bottom line: This is a bucket-list destination for romance if there ever was one.
Where to stay
When you’ve saved up to splurge, JOALI Maldives is a brilliant 73-villa island resort that’s well worth it. In the Raa Atoll, awe-inspiring architecture and design, truly five-star food and beverage options across six restaurants (Japanese, Mediterranean and Levant cuisine), mind-blowing ocean immersions, and a dream-inducing spa all combine to create a flawless stay. Rates start from $2,040 per night.
In the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll, home to one of the planet’s largest gathering sites of manta rays, the freshly renovated overwater villas at Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas — with its magnificent undersea restaurant — make for an alluring home away from home in paradise. Rates start from $1,600 per night, based on half board.
Cyclades, Greece
Greece’s most famous group of islands, the Cyclades, is the stuff of honeymoon, proposal and anniversary dreams.
Comprising stunners such as Mykonos, Santorini, Antiparos and lesser-known los, these Aegean Sea islands are resplendent with iconic whitewashed architecture, cobblestone streets, impossibly blue seascapes, sandy beaches, fresh fish and legendary sunsets. Across the 220 small, large and uninhabited rock islands are seemingly infinite options for crafting a memorable itinerary.
Related: 7 things no one tells you about the Greek islands
Some islands can be reached from Athens by ferry, while others require a flight. Regardless, it’s possible to find virtually anything you’re seeking on these islands, from hiking and nude beaches to fine dining and wineries. There are also archaeological sites and remote mountain towns to explore and secret beaches for crystalline swims. Indulgence is very much on the table, and couples can embrace it at every turn.
Where to stay
The five-star spa resort Calilo set along six miles of golden beach on Ios, is a gorgeous retreat of 30 unique suites bursting with original art, heart-shaped swimming pools, olive groves and wellbeing modalities and treatments. The overriding theme of love makes it the place to go for romance. Rates start from $715 per night.
For an authentic Greek escape, many of the 59 suites and villas at Vedema, a Luxury Collection Resort located within a century-old mansion and 400-year-old wine cellar in Santorini’s Megalohori village, have private pools or Jacuzzis, along with scenic terraces. Rates start from $587 or 103,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.
Related: The 26 best Marriott hotels in the world
Kyoto, Japan
Without actually going to Japan, it’s hard to fathom just how romantic the country can be. Not in a tropical island beach way, of course, but in a quietly beautiful aura of romance.
There are serene strolls through bamboo forests, ancient pagodas nestled amidst zen gardens, the iconic silhouette of Mount Fuji, plus the most exquisite sushi and omakase imaginable. The culinary heritage and care that goes into each plate is unmatched — and don’t forget the sake.
The beautiful and ancient city of Kyoto, in particular, is a destination for those who love history, culture and architecture, not to mention gourmet cuisine. It’s famous for its Shinto shrines, imperial palaces, Buddhist temples, gardens and, each spring, cherry blossoms — though maybe most of all for being home to intriguing geisha in Gion.
All of that and more is accessible and easy to experience for couples who should also block out some time to savor their hotel, especially if staying in a ryokan or landmark luxury property.
Where to stay
In the historical neighborhood of Arashiyama, hugging a maple tree-lined river, Hoshinoya Kyoto provides a luxe take on traditional architecture with its gracious accommodations, on-site experiences (like incense ceremonies), a Japanese whisky bar and kaiseki restaurant. Rates start from $1,323 per night.
Blending authenticity with contemporary luxury, Aman Kyoto puts a modern spin on traditional ryokans with tranquil suites, a divine onsen and impeccable kaiseki cuisine, and easy access to many UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Rates start from $2,160 per night.
Lake Como, Italy
Italy is undoubtedly packed with timeless vacation spots that ooze romance around every corner — there’s Positano, the Amalfi Coast, Capri, Puglia, Rome, Tuscany and Florence.
However, there’s something about Lake Como that feels so special. Maybe it’s the fact George Clooney spends his summers there. Or maybe it’s the gorgeous weddings held there each season. Perhaps it’s the lure of Aperol spritzes and cruising in a vintage wooden speedboat past grand estates, sunbathing on a floating pool deck or even paddle boarding on the shimmery lake up in the foothills of the Alps.
Related: The best destinations to visit from Milan, Italy
Maybe Europe’s most mystical summer swimming spot, Lake Como is the deepest freshwater lake in Italy and arguably its most famous body of water. There are cute hotels in town, along with shopping and dining, but the best place to stay is actually on the lake.
Where to stay
With plush lake view suites — designed by the illustrious Patricia Urquiola — and a picture-perfect infinity pool, the intimate and ultra-luxe Il Sereno Lago di Como is a primo place to take it all in. Rates start from $2,190 per night.
Related: 10 new exciting hotels to check out in Rome
Iconic and historical, Villa d’Este is a Renaissance palace dating to the 16th century with 25 acres of elaborate gardens. It’s a classic choice for couples visiting Lake Como, especially since it has an immense floating pool. Rates start from $899 per night.
Cartagena, Colombia
Cartagena is the best of many worlds — Caribbean paradise, one of the world’s best preserved colonial towns, nightlife hub and foodie fantasy. There is an abundant vibrant energy in the city, which is split between a walkable, technicolor town and a modern city with tall buildings. In the former, at all hours, music emanates from homes, shops and storefronts, seemingly taunting visitors to shake their hips.
There’s plenty to do and see in the most colorful city in Colombia. A street food tour should absolutely be on all itineraries, with knowledgeable guides serving up fascinating stories and historical tidbits along with all the tasty South American eats.
Another worthy exploit: a boat trip to the Rosario Islands, where pristine, sun-soaked beaches allow for excellent snorkeling. A romantic trip is incomplete without at least one sultry salsa lesson and a night out dancing with your lover.
Where to stay
With 20 guest rooms and 11 suites with private plunge pools, Hotel Casa San Agustin, housed in three beautifully restored 17th-century homes in the walled city, offers a romantic home base with an intricate design and a fine Colombian restaurant with live music. Rates start from $394 per night.
Storied and sumptuous, the Sofitel Legend Santa Clara Cartagena — set in a glorious 1621 convent — is an iconic option that feels like a tropical palace. It boasts a courtyard restaurant and a large swimming pool, plus a long list of famous past guests. Rates start from $320 per night.
