Looking for somewhere to fall in love – or fall in love with – or the perfect place to propose to your partner? There’s no one romantic destination, although some, like Paris, deserve designations like ‘City of Love’. How the location relates to you and your partner and how you decide to spend your time are the secrets to making it special.
Having said that, there are some places that just have that je ne sais quois. Discover which should be on your bucket list for a trip that sends you head over heels.
What makes a romantic getaway?
A romantic destination does more than provide attractive scenery – although that is a key element. Who doesn’t want to be swept away (not literally) by mesmerising beaches, soaring mountains, enchanting lakes and glittering lights? The best also encourages intimacy, whether through a rural location, a slow pace of life or the opportunity for private experiences away from the crowds.
Romance is also distinctly personal. As they say, beauty is in the eye of the beholder! And every one of us has individual interests and priorities. Meeting the preferences of you and any loved ones travelling with you is the recipe for a holiday of wonder and joy, bonding moments and memories you’ll never forget.
Energising city breaks
Cities can surprise you with the intimacy they can offer. It’s a different kind to remote beaches and countryside retreats, but no less heartwarming.
Romantic giants include Paris, beloved for its boutique-lined boulevards and grand galleries and palaces; Venice, the floating city of culture traversed by gondola; Florence, overflowing with inspiring art and architecture; Kyoto, traditional and transformed by the changing seasons; and Buenos Aires, often referred to as the Paris of the South, where the people are no stranger to passion.
Popular alternatives include London and New York, both known for their world-class museums and theatre which fill visitors with awe, and Sydney, crowned by a dramatic harbour and boasting stunning coastal views. You can find beautiful engagement rings in Australia and the US or the UK if you decide the time is right to pop the question! Any of these cities will provide an amazing backdrop and the opportunity to celebrate with unique shared experiences, including Michelin-star dining and sunset sailing.
Captivating coastal escapes
Few experiences feel as effortlessly romantic as spending time by the sea. Coastal destinations across Europe are known for their laidback vibe and sensational views, from the Amalfi Coast with its colourful house-clambered cliffs and nearby islands and stylish Santorini to Cornwall, the UK’s wild, windswept surfing haven home to concealed coves and flower-covered sand dunes. Elsewhere, you have the classic island paradise settings, such as the Maldives and the Seychelles.
The coast offers practical benefits as well as visual appeal. A morning walk along the shoreline provides space to talk without distractions, while waterfront restaurants naturally have a relaxed atmosphere for long meals. You could hire a boat for an afternoon or choose accommodation within walking distance of the beach so you can enjoy evening strolls without planning every detail.
These simple experiences often leave a stronger impression than packed itineraries because they give you time to enjoy the destination together rather than constantly moving between attractions.
Thrilling outdoor adventure
For some couples, romance comes from the excitement of completing challenges together rather than relaxation. Destinations where you can be surrounded by little but nature, such as New Zealand, the Canadian Rockies and the Swiss Alps, offer the chance for all sorts of unparalleled adventure, including hiking and cycling, winter sports, water sports and more, either guided or solo (for experienced travellers).
Accomplishing unforgettable experiences cannot help but create and strengthen bonds, whether this is confidence within yourself, a love for that country or your commitment to a partner. Hiking to mountain viewpoints, going white-water rafting down a river, trying bungee jumping, flying along trails on a mountain bike – these are the activities that spark the stories you’ll still tell years later.
Making lasting memories
The most romantic holiday setting depends less on the specifics of the location and more on the experiences you create, alone or together. Each type of destination can set the stage for meaningful moments when they match your interests.
Instead of focusing solely on famous landmarks, think about how you’ll spend your time. Book special experiences that catch your attention but otherwise leave room for spontaneity and look for opportunities to connect through shared activities. When you return home, those moments of laughter, discovery and togetherness are what matter most.
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