There is almost nothing better than exploring the world with the person you love. Romantic destinations can be anywhere when you’re with your person.
Much of what drives the top romantic destinations lists or romantic travel guides is beauty. Places with gorgeous scenery, unique landscapes or otherwise breathtaking attributes.
However, not everyone has the same idea of beauty or romance. You may find deep sea diving romantic. Or a Michelin star chef dining experience with 20 courses over candlelight. Others may only need a bottle of wine and a bouquet or roses to feel the love.
Whatever interests you, there are a few places around the world that most people agree on as being top romantic destinations. These include Paris, France, the Maldives, and Venice, Italy. There are countless top 10, 15, 20, even 50 lists for the romance-seeking travel couple.
We’ve compiled our own list of the top romantic destinations. This romantic travel guide takes you to places near and dear to our hearts. Some will be obvious and some may surprise you. Each place means something more to us than just romance. If you get a chance to visit these places, we hope you feel the same.
Need more help getting in the “mood” for traveling? Read 10 Reasons to Start Traveling Now (And Why We Will Never Stop).
10 Unexpected Romantic Destinations for Couples
Bali, Indonesia
Southeast Asia as a whole is one of our most treasured destinations. It’s where Luke and I first met, traveled together, and solidified our passion for travel.
Bali, Indonesia is one of few places I see myself visiting time and time again. There are beaches, lush nature and jungles, amazing cuisine, stunning temples and architecture, and unbelievable landscapes. It’s home to luxurious resorts and spas and plays host to spiritual or yoga retreats. You can also do any and all sorts of activities here.
Ubud is one of my favorite places on the island for its peaceful and serene nature. It’s an amazing place to learn about and immerse yourself in traditional Balinese culture.
Sydney, Australia
This may be an unusual inclusion in a romantic travel guide but has special meaning to us. It was Sydney where we met after months apart to give our relationship an official try. It’s been nearly 10 years since so I think we made the right choice!
Sydney has so much to offer. You can visit a hundred times and have a completely different experience each time. There are hundreds of beaches to explore along the harbour and coastline. Expansive botanical gardens. Great restaurants and bar scene. Tons of activities to suit every person.
We spent a lot of time in Darling Harbour walking the boardwalk, dining out and experiencing the nightlife. We also love The Rocks, one of the oldest areas, for its cobblestone streets and historic sandstone buildings and monuments.
Paracas, Peru
This romantic destination is not likely known for its romance factor, but we are going to change that.
Paracas is located on the west coast of Peru. It is known for its beaches and rugged coastline set on Paracas Bay. The landscape in the nearby Paracas National Reserve is dynamic and unique. There is ample opportunity for wildlife viewing within the reserve and at the Ballestas Islands.
We love the town for its combination of stunning natural landscapes paired with its laid-back, small resort town feel. It also happens to be the place we got engaged. We met on a beach, got engaged on a beach, and you guessed it: got married on a beach.
Queenstown, New Zealand
New Zealand was our home for 18 amazing months in 2016 to 2017. It will always hold a special place in our hearts.
Queenstown is a small resort town on the South Island. It sits along the shores of Lake Wakatipu to one side and the mighty Southern Alps to another. The backdrop to this town is almost unbelievable in how striking it is.
There is no shortage of romantic activities here. Or activities in general. The diverse natural landscapes provide ample opportunities for hiking, biking, skiing, and more. Nearby vineyards provide amazing views of the Otago region while visiting small boutique wineries.
You can find yourself relaxing in hot springs, bungee jumping or touring over glaciers. A trip to Milford Sound is a must do. It is a fiord known for towering mountains, powerful waterfalls, and thriving rainforest. We hiked the Milford Track, but the area can also be seen by boat cruise.
Cook Islands
The Cook Islands comprise 15 islands in the South Pacific Ocean. The largest of them being Rarotonga. We visited in 2016 and completely fell in love.
There are white sand beaches, lush rainforests, rugged mountains and crystal clear waters. There are delicious restaurants and coffee shops ranging from cute shacks on the side of the road to upscale, high-end establishments.
Everything seems better in the Cook Islands. The pace is more chill and laid back. The local Māori people are some of the best people you will ever meet. The islands are well known for their incredible snorkeling and scuba diving.
We hope to visit Aitutaki Island one day, north of Rarotonga. Also known as “little paradise”, the island has a turquoise lagoon and barrier reef teeming with marine wildlife.
Cartagena, Colombia
This port city on Colombia’s Caribbean coast has something for everyone. There are gorgeous beaches, an immaculately preserved colonial town center, a modern city with tall buildings, and sightseeing and activities galore.
We fell in love with the historical Old Town. Brightly colored colonial buildings line the cobblestone streets. Tropical flowers adorn most balconies, doorways and windows. Music is playing at all times of the day. It is a bustling and beautiful part of town.
Its tropical climate makes it a popular beach and vacation destination. Nearby islands are known for their white-sand beaches, palm trees, and coral reefs.
Since visiting in 2018, I long to go back to spend more time in this romantic destination.
Florence, Italy
Italy is an obvious choice for a romantic getaway. It’s included in almost every romantic travel guide, particularly highlighting Venice. I love Venice. No shade towards Venice. However, I think there are more romantic places to visit in Italy.
Florence is one of my favorite cities. It is the capital of the Tuscany region. A region I always imagined myself living in one day. I would live on a picturesque vineyard. Spending my days frolicking and laughing with friends. My evenings I would eat delicious culinary delights alongside world class wine. Life would be blissful and perfect.
All joking aside, Florence is beautiful. It is home to incredible architecture and artworks. Has one of the world’s oldest historic centers. The surrounding landscapes are just as impressive.
Although neither of us have been yet, we both dream of visiting the Amalfi Coast and Cinque Terre. Both areas have spectacular views and quaint seaside towns. And both regularly top lists of romantic destinations for travel couples.
Hydra, Greece
Take your pick of the Greek Islands and you will not be disappointed. Santorini, Mykonos, Crete, Corfu, the list goes on.
Hydra is car-free and protected. Donkeys serve as the main transportation tool. It’s a place for people to connect, slow down, and enjoy themselves. The waterfront is bustling with cafes, bars and boutique shops. It is an “artist’s muse” and is visited by musicians, artists and poets alike.
I spent two incredible weeks sailing the Greek Islands in 2013. Along with visiting Hydra, sleeping outside and staring up at the star-laden night sky is one of my favorite memories. Luke and I have yet to travel to Greece together. And when we do it will be for an unforgettable romantic getaway.
Paris, France
Ah Paris – the city of love, romance, and of all matters of the heart. Ask anyone to name a romantic destination and most people will say Paris.
Paris charms you at almost every turn. There are sidewalk cafes with gorgeous floral arrangements. Adorable hidden laneways and gardens to explore. Beautiful neighborhoods to take a romantic stroll through like Montmartre.
Then there are experiences that add to the romance factor. Drink champagne with your loved one at the top of the Eiffel Tower. And maybe receive a marriage proposal while you’re at it. Or take a river cruise along the Seine to see iconic city sights lit up at night.
There is a wall dedicated to love: the Wall of Love. The words “I love you” are written in over 250 languages. It is currently closed for renovations but scheduled to open in spring 2024. Perfect timing for our visit this summer! We’ve both been separately to Paris in the past and this will be our first time together.
Bora Bora, French Polynesia
The last on our list is a dream romantic destination for us: Bora Bora.
Bora Bora is a small South Pacific island northwest of Tahiti in French Polynesia. It is one of the most stunning destinations in the world. It’s also a leading honeymoon destination.
There are deep blue waters paired with clear, turquoise lagoons. Rainforest covered mountains. Hibiscus and other tropical trees, plants and flowers. There is also amazing snorkeling, diving and hiking available.
This place oozes romance and luxury.
You may be wondering how we, as two self-proclaimed frugal travelers, can dream of visiting a place like Bora Bora. We wonder about that too. Once we get an idea in our heads, it’s hard to talk us out of it, so I’m sure we will find a way.
To learn about how we will travel to Bora Bora one day while still achieving our budget goals, check out How To Budget: The Ultimate Guide to Save for Travel.
What are some of your top romantic destinations to travel to? Let us know in the comments below!
