211
15 minutes readContents
Tips for booking romantic getaways
Booking a vacation with your partner is different from going away with your friends or even your family. You’ll want to choose a destination that works for both of you, so it’s a good idea to start by deciding what you want from your vacation. Do you want to relax on the beach and indulge in spa treatments, or would you prefer to be outdoors exploring a national park?
You’ll find plenty of travel recommendations on our blog, and once you’ve found your dream location, it’s time to start curating your itinerary, including deciding which tourist attractions and activities you want to prioritize and pre-book. Some of these destinations can be extremely busy, especially during peak season, so it’s often best to think ahead. You want to book a stay at a hotel that fits your budget and preferences, whether you want an on-site spa or be located in a lively downtown area.
18 of the most romantic places for couples to visit
Whether you’re planning a Valentine’s Day trip or a summer vacation, there is a lot to consider when organizing a romantic getaway, from finding the right resort to booking the best transport options . You’ll want to choose somewhere that’s special for both of you, offering an array of activities that match your interests.
While Europe dominates our top choices of the most romantic destinations, it’s also worth considering up-and-coming cities across Asia. We’ve rounded up 18 places to consider for your next romantic vacation as a couple.
1. Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Where to stay: Mövenpick Hotel Amsterdam City Centre
When you think of Europe, it’s easy to instinctively go to major cities like London and Paris, but there are smaller cities across the continent that are gaining attention. If you want a European escape without the hustle and bustle of London, but the romanticism of France, Amsterdam will tick all the boxes. There’s an old-school charm to Amsterdam, from its historic canals to its cozy houses and coffee shop culture.
There’s an old-school charm to Amsterdam, from its historic canals to its cozy houses.
Photo by Dilip Poddar on Unsplash
March to May is one of the most popular times to visit as it’s when the tulips, the symbol of the Netherlands, are in bloom. If you’re looking for an extended trip, Amsterdam is a great starting point for European cruises, including to the Norwegian Fjords, and smaller river cruises to France and Germany.
2. Napa Valley, California
Where to stay: Elm House Inn
If you’re a couple who loves to sit down and relax with a good bottle of wine, Napa Valley will become an instant favorite. California’s wine country, including the neighboring area of Sedona, is full of boutique hotels, luxury resorts, independent restaurants, and exclusive behind-the-scenes tours and experiences at wineries.
One of the most romantic things to do in this part of California is the Napa Valley Wine Train.
Photo by Nikhil Mistry on Unsplash
One of the most romantic things to do in this part of California is the Napa Valley Wine Train, which offers a taste of European elegance without having to leave the United States. You can even curate a bespoke package for your train ride if you’re planning a special moment with your partner.
3. Maui, Hawaii
Where to stay: The Mauian – Boutique Beach Studios on Napili Bay
It’s no surprise that Hawaii is one of our favorite honeymoon destinations. Many of the almost 10 million annual visitors to Hawaii are couples, often celebrating a milestone birthday, anniversary, or special vacation.
You’re guaranteed to catch some of the best sunrises and sunsets you’ll see anywhere in the world.
Photo by rjb Studios on Unsplash
You’re guaranteed to catch some of the best sunrises and sunsets you’ll see anywhere in the world, making it worth the splurge to stay in a resort or hotel near the beach. Between days spent relaxing on the sandy beaches and indulging at farm-to-table restaurants, you’ll want to book at least one snorkeling expedition for the complete Hawaii experience.
4. Charleston, South Carolina
Where to stay: The Ryder Hotel
Charleston is a place that appears on almost every single guide we publish – and for good reason. This historic city feels like stepping back in time with its welcoming Southern hospitality, charming streets, and even its horse-drawn carriage rides. It’s the ultimate getaway if you’re planning a proposal or if you want to switch off and unwind.
Charleston is the ultimate getaway if you’re planning a proposal or if you want to switch off and unwind.
Photo by Sean Pavone on Shutterstock
You’ll want to take a stroll through Waterfront Park in downtown Charleston, catch a show at Dock Street Theatre, find a cozy corner in a cocktail bar, and take some pictures in front of Rainbow Row.
5. The Maldives
Where to stay: Villa Park Sun Island Resort
If you want to escape your daily grind and go off-grid, the Maldives will make it feel as if you’re on another planet. Another perfect honeymoon destination, the Maldives have been perceived as the ultimate luxury island getaway for several years now, but recent reforms mean that high-end hotels aren’t your only accommodation option.
The Maldives have been perceived as the ultimate luxury island getaway.
Photo by Colin Watts on Unsplash
While the Maldives is made up of almost 1,200 islands, less than a quarter are inhabited. One of the reasons why we love the Maldives is that many of the hotels on the islands are eco-conscious, contributing to local marine conservation, making it a once-in-a-lifetime experience for nature lovers. You can swim with the turtles after lunch and even after your dinner at the world’s largest restaurant under the sea.
6. New York City, USA
Where to stay: EVEN Hotel New York – Times Square South by IHG
For most of us, the Big Apple is a bucket list destination – and there’s no shortage of romantic things to do around NYC. While the city is popular year-round, you’ll get the best deals from January to March if you’re happy to stay during slightly colder temperatures. New York is a great alternative to Florida, New Orleans, and Charleston if you want to visit somewhere new.
Тhere’s no shortage of romantic things to do around NYC.
Photo by Emiliano Bar on Unsplash
Some of the best date night spots in NYC include The Metropolitan Museum of Art, a trip to the Top of the Rock, and the Lobby Bar at Hotel Chelsea. Alternatively, you can catch last-minute tickets to a Broadway show like Death Becomes Her or Hadestown.
7. Bali, Indonesia
Where to stay: The Sun of Granary Resort and Villas
If you’re looking for an adventure in Asia, Bali should be top of your list of potential romantic getaway spots. While Indonesia has been popular with backpackers for years, it’s now seeing an influx of five-star hotels and luxury resorts, including a new Waldorf Astoria opening in 2027.
There’s something magical about this province.
Photo by kitzcorner on Shutterstock
If you want a spiritual retreat that will have you disconnecting from your emails and spending some quality one-on-one time with your significant other, Bali is the place to go. There’s something magical about this province, and you can immerse yourself in the local culture while indulging in a floating breakfast in your private pool or by taking a flower bath together.
8. Tokyo, Japan
Where to stay: Hotel Niwa Tokyo
Japan is one of the hottest travel destinations right now, and there’s no better way to see Tokyo than with your significant other by your side. Tokyo gives you a taste of a busy city with plenty of tranquil escapes inside its main neighborhoods, like Shinjuku Gyoen or Meiji Jingu Shrine.
Тhere’s no better way to see Tokyo than with your significant other by your side.
Photo by Stockbym on Shutterstock
Your money will generally go further in Tokyo than in comparable cities like London or NYC, making it easier to budget for luxury experiences, like shopping in Ginza. You’ll also want to book a table at one of Tokyo’s 160 Michelin-starred restaurants, making it the city with the most awarded establishments in the world.
9. Amalfi Coast, Italy
Where to stay: DieciSedici
The Amalfi Coast has been associated with romance ever since the golden age of Hollywood. This stretch of Italian coastline stretches for 50 kilometers, with Positano being one of the most visited towns in the region.
The Amalfi Coast has been associated with romance ever since the golden age of Hollywood.
Photo by Alessio Bachetti on Unsplash
If you’re visiting from overseas, you’re likely to arrive via Naples International Airport or by flying to Rome and taking a train to Naples. The Amalfi Coast feels like stepping onto the set of an old Hitchcock movie with its stunning natural beauty.
10. Santorini, Greece
Where to stay: Astro Palace Hotel & Spa
Speaking of old-school romance, Greece is somewhere that’s easy to fall in love with. While there are plenty of islands to choose from, Santorini has quickly become one of the most popular, offering the best hotel accommodation, ocean views, and spa amenities.
Santorini is a great option for your base if you want to island hop during the day, and some European airlines are even offering direct flights from London, Paris, and Athens. While you’ll want to spend most of your day by the beach, it’s worth renting a quad bike to explore the less busy areas of Santorini or going scuba diving.
11. Paris, France
Where to stay: Hôtel Vacances Bleues Provinces Opéra
It’s no secret that we’re big fans of Paris, after all, where’s more romantic than The City of Lovers? It might feel cliché, but Paris remains one of the most popular cities for a destination proposal, honeymoon, or anniversary trip.
Paris remains one of the most popular cities for a destination proposal, honeymoon, or anniversary trip.
Photo by Léonard Cotte on Unsplash
The city attracts an average of 50 million visitors annually, many of whom arrive in France to visit the Louvre, take a picnic under the Eiffel Tower, and watch the sunset during a cruise along the Seine River.
12. Mauritius
Where to stay: Tamassa Bel Ombre
Did the Maldives catch your eye, but you’re looking for something a little more laid back? Try Mauritius! While it’s not as widely associated with romantic getaways as the Maldives or Seychelles, Mauritius gives you the island experience without the high luxury price tag.
Mauritius gives you the island experience without the high luxury price tag.
Photo by Stephan van de Schootbrugge on Unsplash
There’s plenty to add to your itinerary, from swimming with dolphins to exploring the various waterfalls across the island and booking a couple’s massage by the waterfront.
13. Rome, Italy
Where to stay: Dei Borgognoni Hotel
Rome is a city that’s been getting major attention, especially in 2025. With things expected to be a little quieter in 2026, it’s a great option for a European vacation for any couple.
Rome is a great option for a European vacation for any couple.
Photo by SCStock on Shutterstock
You’ll want to grab tickets to tour the Colosseum, visit the Villa Doria Pamphili, and enjoy the best views of the city from Aventine Hill. If you’re a couple who loves the theatre, make sure to catch an opera or a ballet at the Teatro Dell’Opera di Roma.
14. Ibiza, Spain
Where to stay: Pacha Hotel
For couples who love to party – but are just as serious about their rest and relaxation – Ibiza is another great option for a couple’s vacation. You’ll have the beach right on your doorstep.
There’s a romantic side to this Spanish island as well.
Photo by Michael Tomlinson on Unsplash
It’s easy to assume that Ibiza is all about nightclubs, but there’s a romantic side to this Spanish island as well. Choose beaches like Cala Comte and Cala d’Hort for sunbathing and spend at least one afternoon at Dalt Vila, Ibiza’s Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and one of the oldest towns in Europe.
15. Buenos Aires, Argentina
Where to stay: Palladio Hotel Buenos Aires – MGallery Collection
If you’ve already visited Europe or want to explore South America for the first time, there’s nowhere better than Buenos Aires. This city is often compared to Paris and offers the perfect blend of Latin American and European cultures, wrapping the city in a romantic atmosphere that’s always impossible to escape.
If you’ve already visited Europe or want to explore South America for the first time, there’s nowhere better than Buenos Aires.
Photo by Armando Oliveira on Shutterstock
If you’re a couple who enjoy spending date night exploring new bars and restaurants, then you’ll feel right at home here. There are dozens of rooftop cocktail bars to check out with city skyline views, like the Alvear Roof Bar, and you can expect some of the best steak you’ll ever taste, along with traditional Argentinean food, like empanadas, milanesas, and Dulce de Leche.
16. Iceland
Where to stay: Grandi by Center Hotels
Is there anything more romantic than stargazing? Perhaps seeing the Northern Lights! The start of 2026 will see the peak of the current solar cycle, making it one of the best times to see the Northern Lights, especially in Iceland.
Is there anything more romantic than stargazing? Perhaps seeing the Northern Lights!
Photo by Smit on Shutterstock
Most international airlines offer flights to Reykjavik-Keflavik Airport, and Iceland’s location means it’s only a few hours from the East Coast or most of Europe. If you decide to hire a car, you’ll want to take a romantic scenic drive along the Golden Circle or explore Reykjavik, including visiting the famous Perlan Nature Museum. Iceland has been working its way up the list of romantic spots and has become known for its unique outdoor experiences, including the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa.
17. Phuket, Thailand
Where to stay: Wyndham Garden Phuket Kamala
Did you and your partner watch the last season of White Lotus? The chances are that you probably talked about taking a visit to Thailand, where season 3 was set. We expect Thailand to be one of the most-visited countries for 2026, and there’s plenty for couples to do in Phuket, Thailand’s largest island.
There’s plenty for couples to do in Phuket, Thailand’s largest island.
Photo by Aurel Tyson on Unsplash
If you feel like splurging, choose a luxury hotel or all-inclusive resort, as these hotels will put everything you need right on your doorstep, perfect for couples who want to relax and unwind. Romantic things to enjoy include a visit to Phang Nga Bay, a traditional couples massage, and an evening exploring the bars and restaurants on Bangla Road.
18. Botswana, Africa
Where to stay: Maun Lodge
Our final recommendation is something different from what most of us consider to be a romantic getaway. If you’re a couple who love wildlife and animals, booking a safari is the ultimate way to celebrate a milestone, whether it’s an anniversary, your honeymoon, or a special birthday. You’ll want to stay in a hotel close to your chosen safari spot.
Botswana is a great option if you want to take part in an eco-conscious safari.
Photo by Colin Watts on Unsplash
Botswana is a great option if you want to take part in an eco-conscious safari, as the local government has worked heavily with the travel industry to deliver a strategy focused on controlling the impact of travel by offering higher-value stays for a smaller number of tourists. You can plan a romantic evening with a hot air balloon ride, an intimate dinner under the stars, or a romantic champagne cruise on the Chobe River.
Join RateHawk to book romantic getaways anywhere in the world
2026 is right around the corner, and RateHawk is here to help you grow your travel business this year. When you join RateHawk, you’ll get instant access to over 2.9 million hotels from more than 320 suppliers internationally, allowing you to give your clients access to the most romantic destinations for 2026 and beyond.
You’ll have everything you need for vacation planning on one platform, from car rentals to transfers and airline tickets. Get started with RateHawk today to book romantic getaways anywhere in the world in 2026.
Cover image: Photo by frank mckenna on Unsplash
