After the wedding, you’ll undoubtedly yearn for a secluded getaway with your significant other to unwind and recharge. Planning a wedding can be emotionally and physically draining, making it crucial to follow the unspoken rule of embarking on a honeymoon once everything is said and done. But the question remains: Where should you go for this blissful escape?
But before we answer that question, let’s consider when you should plan your honeymoon. It won’t be immediately after the wedding. As your wedding day approaches, allow our guide to help you discover the most romantic honeymoon destinations you should consider booking.
List of the Top 10 Romantic Honeymoon Destinations
Santorini, Greece: A Tapestry of History
Santorini is an island rich in history, boasting exceptional cuisine and mesmerizing natural beauty. This enchanting destination is perfect for couples seeking a romantic getaway.
Why Go
Be sure to catch the breathtaking sunsets, especially in Caldera and Oia. For a truly romantic experience, visit Santorini Winery, home to some of the oldest vineyards on Earth.
Things to Do
Visit Perissa Beach and sunbathe on its black sand beach. The hot sand presents the perfect opportunity to show your partner you care by carrying her to your towels.
Best Time to Go
Santorini attracts travelers throughout the year, offering a unique experience each month. The best time to visit depends on your preferences and what you want to achieve. Plan your visit between May and September if you desire sunny and rain-free weather. However, if you prefer a calm and relaxed atmosphere without crowds, consider the low season from October to March, which also offers the best savings.
Maldives: Vibrant Marine Life
The Maldives islands are the premium honeymoon destination in the world. The islands are epic, and few destinations in the world can rival them as the most romantic honeymoon spot.
The overwater bungalows, vibrant marine life, crystal blue waters, and much more make the Maldives a must-visit honeymoon destination.
Why Go
The Maldives is the epitome of a luxurious premium destination. Experience the crystalline waters with varying shades of blue, tall palm trees, and sparkling silver sand under infinite blue skies.
Things to Do
Indulge in a romantic massage and pamper yourselves after the stressful wedding planning period. Don’t miss the opportunity to swim among the stunning reefs and crystal-clear azure blue waters.
Best Time to Go
The Maldives enjoys good weather year-round, but the best time to visit is from November to April. During these months, the weather is warm, sunny, and ideal for a honeymoon. However, remember that this is also the peak season, resulting in higher prices and larger crowds.
If you’re seeking better deals, consider planning your vacation between May and October. However, be prepared for higher precipitation and stronger winds during these months.
Cinque Terre, Italy: Coastal Villages and Breathtaking Beauty
Cinque Terre, a collection of five coastal villages in Liguria, is a beloved romantic honeymoon spot known for its charm and breathtaking beauty.
Why Go
These five villages boast marvelous architecture dating back to the 1200s. Immerse yourselves in the medieval era as you explore the narrow streets and houses clinging to the steep hillsides with the Mediterranean waters below.
What to Do
Marvel at the breathtaking views from Riomaggiore. Though it requires a bit of effort to reach the top, the view is worth it. Stop by Nessun Dorma in Manarola for delicious Italian food and consider joining one of their Pesto tasting classes.
Best Time to Go
The best time to visit Cinque Terre depends on your preferences. For an enjoyable wedding trip, plan your visit between September and October, when most tourists have returned home. The weather is also cooler during this time, and the trails are less crowded, providing a tranquil experience.
November to February brings colder weather, and some amenities may be closed. However, this period offers lower rates, especially in December. Spring is also a lovely shoulder season in Cinque Terre but may be accompanied by rain. August is the hottest and most crowded month, with higher hotel rates.
Hawaii, USA: A Kaleidoscope of Island Delights
Hawaii may be a challenging destination to plan, but it’s the perfect location for a wedding trip or anniversary celebration. Each of the eight islands comprising Hawaii offers a unique experience, making it difficult to choose just one.
Why Go
Hawaii’s islands are ethnically diverse, making you feel at home during your wedding trip. The pristine parts of the islands allow for secluded paradises if you choose scenic routes over highways.
Things to Do
Regardless of where you stay or your chosen activities, a honeymoon in Hawaii will be spectacular. Witness the breathtaking sunrise from Mount Haleakala on Maui Island, an experience you’ll treasure forever.
Best time to Go
If you desire the best weather for your wedding trip, schedule your visit for April, September, or October. The islands experience rainfall between November and March, and hurricane season spans from June to November, although destructive hurricanes are rare. Hawaii generally offers warm, tropical weather throughout the year, with minimal temperature fluctuations compared to other parts of North America and Europe.
It’s advisable to make hotel reservations three months in advance. If swimming and snorkeling are part of your itinerary, plan your visit from May to September in the summer. For budget travel, consider visiting in May, September, October, or the beginning of December.
Paris, France: Love in the City of Romance
It’s hard to imagine anything more romantic than a honeymoon in Paris, the renowned City of Love. Paris has captivated couples worldwide for countless years, making it an ideal destination to start your married life.
Why Go
Paris has unofficially deemed the city of love, ensuring that every activity exudes romance, from wine tasting to dining on the Eiffel Tower.
Things to Do
Embark on a dinner cruise along the River Seine with your significant other. This relaxing cruise offers a different perspective of the city and allows you to witness famous monuments such as Notre Dame, Ile de la Cite, the Louvre, Musee d’Orsay, and, of course, the iconic Eiffel Tower.
Best time to Go
The best time to visit Paris is between June and August or September and October, although both periods have pros and cons. In summer, the weather is magnificent, and the days are longer. However, expect larger crowds and higher costs.
Consider visiting during the winter for budget travel and shorter queues at points of interest. Remember that Paris is one of the most visited cities globally, so long lines and crowds are inevitable regardless of the time you choose.
Fiji: Breathtaking Islands
Fiji boasts stunning sandy beaches, authentic culture, and pristine jungle rivers. With its natural beauty, Fiji should undoubtedly be on your list of romantic honeymoon ideas. The Fijian people are incredibly friendly, and the country is an archipelago consisting of over 300 islands, leaving you with the delightful decision of choosing which island to visit.
Why Go
Fiji is renowned as the Soft Coral Capital of the World, thanks to the Great Astrolabe Reef surrounding its 333 islands and atolls. The country offers a plethora of fun water activities for couples to enjoy.
Things to Do
Fiji is internationally renowned for its sea life, particularly its colorful coral reefs. The islands offer numerous water activities for you and your partner to indulge in. Make sure to explore the Great Astrolabe Reef, the fourth-largest barrier reef in the world.
Best time to GO
Like many other destinations, the peak and off-peak seasons play a role in deciding the best time to visit Fiji. The good news is that Fiji barely experiences winter, allowing for year-long travel. You can always expect blue skies, sunshine, and breathtaking sunsets.
For budget travel, the best time to visit is from February to June and September when demand is low. If you wish to enjoy the vibrant nightlife with your partner, consider visiting during the hot months of July and August.
Venice, Italy: Marvel Floating on Canals
They say there is no place on earth like Venice, and there is truth in that statement. This iconic city floats on the waters of the Adriatic Sea and is characterized by elaborate architecture, art-filled palaces, and a rich history that dates back over 1,000 years. But what truly sets Venice apart is its network of canals.
Why Go
Venice is a tight cluster of islands surrounding the legendary Grand Canal, where gondolas, canal boats, and water taxis navigate the picturesque waterways. With almost no cars in the city, exploring Venice on foot and by boat or gondola adds to the charm. You’ll find no shortage of attractions to captivate you and your partner.
Things to Do
Begin your married life with a visit to Teatro La Fenice and enjoy a romantic opera show. Then, indulge in one of Venice’s most romantic experiences—a gondola ride. Glide along the quiet canals or venture onto the famous Grand Canal and let the enchantment of Venice surround you.
Best time to GO
Venice is a fantastic destination for a couple’s vacation, and like many other places, some months are better than others. When planning your honeymoon in Venice, consider your priorities. Are you after favorable weather, vibrant festivals, or the captivating aqua alta phenomenon the city is famous for?
The best time to visit Venice is during the off-season, particularly in November, which is also one of the chilliest months in the city. Traveling during the off-season means fewer crowds and lower prices. For honeymooners seeking pleasant weather, late spring to early summer is ideal. However, remember that Venice can be crowded with other tourists during holidays like May 1st, and accommodation and transportation costs may be higher.
Bali, Indonesia: Tropical Oasis of Scented Air
Bali is always on everyone’s travel bucket list, even without a honeymoon. As a couple’s vacation destination, Bali is evocative and visited by tourists worldwide. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be enveloped by the intoxicating scent of incense and fragrance oil that hangs in the tropical air. Bali is a natural beauty, despite the touristy clamor and chaos. It is also renowned for its vibrant art scene and impressive surfing waves.
Why Go
Bali is home to iconic temples, such as Pura Tanah Lot, perched on a rocky islet surrounded by crashing waves. Exploring these temples together is a romantic experience. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness one of the world’s most breathtaking sunsets at Uluwatu Temple.
Things to DO
Head to Jimbaran in southern Bali, known as the most romantic place on the island. Enjoy a sunset dinner on Jimbaran Beach, where you and your partner can have a private table with your toes in the sand, listening to the gentle waves lapping against the shore.
Best time to Go
Bali’s proximity to the equator provides a warm temperature year-round. However, there are significant differences between the island’s two seasons regarding cost.
From May to October, the dry season is also the high season in Bali. However, the best time to visit Bali for a honeymoon is during April, May, June, and September. The climate is dry and slightly less humid during these months, and you can find more affordable accommodations, with villa rentals being up to 50% cheaper than in the high season. Many shops also offer promotions, and you’ll encounter fewer crowds.
Carmel-by-the sea, California: European Charm in Authentic Serenity
Carmel-by-the-Sea is renowned for having one of the world’s most beautiful beaches. Carmel Beach is an enchanting destination where silver sands meet wind-swept cypress trees. Despite its tourism, this small town maintains its authenticity and exudes a European charm that sets it apart from other U.S. towns.
Why Go
Carmel boasts a stunning beach with silver sand and stunning cypress trees. The town’s European vibe and picturesque streets with shops and galleries make it an ideal romantic honeymoon destination.
Things to Do
Explore the picturesque village of Carmel-by-the-Sea, which spans just one square mile, perfect for strolling hand-in-hand with your partner. Head west until you reach Carmel Beach, a rare sandy beach in California that adds to the town’s allure.
Best time to Go
Carmel-by-the-Sea experiences cold temperatures for almost half the year. If you’re looking for warm weather, the best months to visit are July, August, and September.
Mauritius: Oasis of Luxury
Mark Twain once said, “Mauritius was made first, and then heaven; heaven being copied after Mauritius.” This statement holds true to some extent. Mauritius is a luxurious paradise and a top rival to the Maldives. With its exquisite resorts, silver-white beaches, and crystal-clear waters, Mauritius offers an incredible getaway. The island is a premium gateway, offering hiking, world-class diving, snorkeling, boat trips, and expeditions to botanical gardens and colonial estate houses.
Why Go
The capital city of Port Louis boasts French architecture and exciting shopping and entertainment hubs. With numerous luxurious hotels and fine restaurants, Mauritius provides the perfect setting for a memorable honeymoon.
Things to Do
Indulge in a couple’s spa treatment at Anahita’s award-winning Four Seasons spa. Afterward, embark on a horseback ride into the sunset along 2.5 kilometers of deserted beach, creating a truly romantic and unforgettable experience.
Best time to Go
Mauritius has two distinct seasons. The summer season runs from October to April and comes with a risk of cyclones between January and March. The dry winter season occurs from May to September.
The best period to visit the island is from October to December, towards the end of the year. During this time, the weather is warm, and the skies are blue. The low season in Mauritius runs from May to September, offering fewer crowds and lower prices.
Considering Romantic Honeymoon Destination
A honeymoon is usually meant to give you and your better half time to experience the feeling and explore what they mean. It gives you a perfect opportunity to look at each other and take in the new reality that you have declared in front of your families and friends that you are in for the long haul.
It is a well-deserved trip that will help you unwind after the stress of planning your wedding. If you are looking for romantic honeymoon ideas, you can choose between one of the ten best romantic destinations in the world: all corners of the globe, from Europe, South America, the Caribbean, and Asia.
FAQs
What are some romantic honeymoon places known for their natural beauty?
Santorini, Greece; the Maldives; Cinque Terre, Italy; Bali, Indonesia; and Mauritius are all known for their natural beauty and make excellent choices for a romantic honeymoon.
What are some romantic honeymoon destinations that offer a combination of relaxation and adventure?
If you’re looking for a romantic honeymoon that offers a combination of relaxation and adventure, consider destinations like Costa Rica, where you can enjoy pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and thrilling activities like ziplining and hiking. Another option is Queenstown, New Zealand, known as the world’s adventure capital, offering activities such as bungee jumping, skydiving, and scenic helicopter rides, all surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.
What are some romantic honeymoon destinations known for their unique cultural experiences?
Paris, France; Bali, Indonesia; and Fiji are all known for offering unique cultural experiences alongside their romantic charm, making them excellent choices for couples seeking a blend of romance and cultural exploration on their honeymoon.
Are there any off-the-beaten-path honeymoon destinations that offer seclusion and privacy?
For couples seeking seclusion and privacy, consider destinations like Bora Bora in French Polynesia, Seychelles, or the Amalfi Coast in Italy. These locations offer stunning natural beauty and a sense of exclusivity, perfect for couples who want to escape the crowds and enjoy a private and intimate honeymoon experience.
Are there variants that provide budget-friendly options without compromising on romance?
Cinque Terre, Italy; Bali, Indonesia; and Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, offer budget-friendly options without compromising on romance, making them ideal for couples seeking affordable honeymoon destinations.
