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5 Most Romantic Places in the World

Dating 101
08 Aug 2024
6 min read

Weddings, milestone anniversaries, getting a relationship back on that romantic track, empty nest celebrations—these are all reasons why couples look for a getaway in the most romantic places in the world.

Generally, there are several criteria to choose the most romantic cities:

  1. Offering a romantic stroll on cobblestone streets or breathtaking views of beaches and unique accommodations.
  2. Being an isolated retreat on your own private island.
  3. Unique views of things like the Indian Ocean or the Northern Lights, depending on your taste
  4. Being a fully modern and beautiful city with fine dining restaurants with delicious food
  5. Presence of natural beauty with plenty of opportunities for hiking and rustic glamping.

Well, it’s hard to find a romantic city that has it all, but we may have everyone covered with this list of 5 vacation destinations from which to choose the perfect romantic getaway.

Related reading: 7 Chemistry Relationship Types: How to Make Them Last?

Most romantic places in the world: Top 5

Top 5 Most Romantic Trip Destinations

Here are five very different destinations that could have a special appeal as a wedding or honeymoon destination or for any other purpose. Given the diversity, you might just find one that will be your perfect romantic vacation to boost that chemistry and intimate connection.

#5 The Maldives

More than 1,000 islands are spread out in the Indian Ocean in  South Asia. And on these, you are sure to find your magical island for one of the most romantic spots in the entire world.

The Maldives is a Muslim country, and the local islands are steeped in that culture for those who have an interest. But on these islands, beachwear is not allowed except when at pools or on the beach. For a romantic retreat with drinks and fine dining, as well as a far less strict dress code, especially in your own infinity pool, the remote island resorts are recommended.

Exclusive things the Maldives have to offer:

  • Beautiful lagoons with amazing tropical fish that are perfect for scuba diving
  • Beautiful remote beaches for privacy
  • Choice of adult-only resort hotels with many bonuses, including spread out over the land or water, hot tubs, and private infinity pools where breakfast is served on floating trays
  • Couples massages and spa treatment rooms
  • Some of the most amazing and romantic restaurants, even including one under the sea!

It’s easy to see why the Maldives are a popular honeymoon destination or one of the most romantic getaways for those who are renewing all of their romantic feelings for each other. These islands will be an experience of a lifetime, and the memories will serve to renew any romance for years to come.

For those looking for something similar, the Seychelles, an archipelago off the coast of Africa in the is another possible destination.

Related reading: 27 Outdoor Date Ideas, Sorted by Physical Activity Level

#4 Santorini, Greece

Santorini is a must-have romantic destination thanks to its honeymoon suites. They are designed from converted caves into complete luxury, each complete with a private plunge pool and perfect for a romantic interlude any time of the day or night.

Santorini is a Greek island along the coast of the Aegean Sea, with stunning sunsets, cobalt-blue water, quaint villages with cobblestone streets, romantic hotels, olive groves, and unique black sand beaches. These volcanic beaches are the result of lava being cooled in the ocean and then breaking up into sand as they are deposited on the shore.

Exclusive things Santorini has to offer:

  • Vibrant city vibes: For those who want a mix of privacy and intimacy along with a vibrant nightlife, the city streets in the villages offer just that. For couples interested in architecture, it’s hard to beat this Cycladic style. And when the itch to explore hits, a boat ride up the coast, perhaps all the way to Mykonos.
  • Fine wine tasting: Because of its rich volcanic soil, wine-making is a big industry. One of the most romantic things for couples to do is visit a vineyard and enjoy one of those stunning sunsets while sipping some amazing wines and view the island’s beauty at night.
  • Black sand beaches: In contrast to other places with romantic hotels (like Amalfi Coast), this UNESCO world heritage site has unique volcanic beaches that are utterly romantic for terrace overlooking.

It will take some planning for this romantic getaway. First, it is an expensive destination, so budget planning is a must. Second, couples will want to choose the best time of the year. June through August are peak tourist times, and the island will be crowded. Couples who choose spring or autumn will find the weather great and far fewer tourists.

For anyone longing for a romantic retreat with a more Mediterranean vibe, the Amalfi Coast off the southwestern coast of Italy is another good option. It’s composed of several islands, each with municipalities that offer everything from vibrant nightlife to quiet intimate retreats.

Related reading: 26 Morning Date Ideas (for Any Energy Level)

California is a perfect weekend gateway for couples

#3 Big Sur, California

No need to leave the US for a romantic escape. Big Sur on the West Coast is ideal, especially for the outdoorsy, rustic-loving couples.

Big Sur is a stretch along California’s central coast featuring redwood forests, and large mountains, all situated above the Pacific Ocean with deserted beaches for nighttime intimacy. For years, this has been a favorite getaway for anyone wanting to retreat from harried and stressful city life.

Exclusive things Big Sur has to offer:

  • Post Ranch Inn: Originally a ranch, now it has been transformed into a stunning resort and dining experience. Venturing out from the ranch, couples can take a short drive to Carmel By the Sea and stroll Ocean Avenue down to a more romantic walk on a pristine beach.
  • Privacy: Big Sur is just one romantic place on the West Coast. There are plenty of others that may attract couples who want romance and intimacy. Couples can enjoy their private infinity pool or order up a couples massage on their own terrace. Beautiful beaches round out this stay.
  • Easy access to other travel destinations in the country: The West Coast is just one side of the US. Other options are found on the East Coast too and provide perfect romantic sites. On the other side of the US is Niagara Falls, known as a honeymoon paradise for years.

Big Sur is one of the best honeymoon destinations for those who want as much privacy as possible. They can hike through the pristine woods and find amazing waterfalls, and still have the luxury of fine accommodations and dining.

Niagara Falls, dubbed the honeymoon capital of the world, is one of the most famous landmarks in the US. In addition to the breathtaking falls, along with boat and helicopter views, Niagara is now famous for its wineries and candlelight dinners as well as beautiful lodging.

Related reading: 27 Cool Things to Do in San Diego For Couples

Paris is traditionally one of the most romantic places in the world

#2 Paris, France

No one can think of top romantic places without including Paris. So many activities to get those romantic juices flowing!

Exclusive things Paris has to offer:

  • The Eiffel Tower at night is perfect for just holding hands and gazing
  • A sunset boat excursion along the Seine
  • Walk along the Seine and pop into a bistro or two for intimate drinks and snacks.
  • Stroll through lush gardens throughout the city, like the Tuileries.
  • Visit Montmartre for romantic strolls, lunches, and a bit of shopping
  • Stay at one of the most romantic hotels—there is a large selection, all within easy access of the metro to get back to the city center the next day
  • Spend an entire day on the Champs Elysees Avenue, from breakfast to a late-night supper and everything in between
  • Visit quaint villages of Provence to have a private dinner around olive groves and sunflowers in a weekend gateway

The museums may not seem romantic at first but think about it. How about standing with your love and gazing at the Mona Lisa in the Louvre? Or viewing Van Gogh’s “Starry Night” at the D’Arcy Museum followed by an intimate open-air lunch at the site? Never underestimate the romantic power of art masterpieces.

The sidewalk cafes, the shops, and the restaurants will definitely fill your day and night. Just ignore the McDonald’s that has intruded on this beautiful piece of Paris history.

#1 Venice, Italy

“No one forgets the first glimpse of Venice. Whether arriving by plane, boat, train, or car, there is that startling moment when one looks across the waves and finds what should not be there–stone towers, rich churches, and packed buildings rising out of the sea.”

Thomas Madden, historian

Picture this. You are on an evening gondola ride with your love, cuddled together, while the gondolier serenades you with Italian love songs. This is just one of the romantic experiences you will have in Venice.

Venice is not just a single city. It’s actually 118 islands linked by bridges, and the possibilities for exploration and romantic experiences are almost endless.

Exclusive things Venice has to offer:

  • Piazza San Marco (aka St Mark’s Plaza): Take an elevator to the bell tower for a bird’s eye view of all of Venice’s historic landmarks, have a drink at one of the cafes, and even watch the drains bubble up during high tide.
  • Doge’s Palace: Visit the place where doges were crowned as well as executed if they were found to be guilty of something bad.
  • Bridge of Sighs: Its ornate walls and ceilings are the result of bunches of Renaissance artists’ works.
  • The Basilica of San Marco: Most of its decor and stunning architecture are the result of Venetians looting and stealing up and down the coast of Italy. It’s something to see.
  • The Grand Canal: It splits Venice into two parts. There are four bridges. Couples can take a gondola for two (a bit long and stressful due to waves from larger boats) or hop on a larger public one and ride past incredible architecture, plazas, and hotels.

Probably one of the most romantic things to do in Venice is walk along the smaller canals and stop for a coffee (very strong), a snack, or a drink. It’s idyllic and provides quiet time for intimate conversation.

In terms of hotels, there are all price ranges. Most are old by design, because Venice wants to preserve its history. But you will not be disappointed even in the lower-cost three-star hotels. You can get to them all by crossing bridges and walking or by boats which drop you off right at the entrance.

There Are More Than Just Five!

What are you looking for in a romantic retreat? Spa treatments, a private pool, a private beach, small intimate guest rooms or beach suites? Do you want views of rolling hills or private terraces with your own infinity pool? Maybe your ideal romantic location is a Caribbean paradise with white beaches, palm trees, and hammocks for two. And what constitutes the most romantic accommodations is obviously a matter of individual preference.

The five destinations we have listed and described here are not the “be-all” and “end-all.” Some find romance in New York’s Central Park, in Cape Town, South Africa, on safaris in Kenya, in the mineral hot springs of Takaragawa Onsen Japan, or in Quebec City. In fact, here’s another YouTube video that covers a host of such destinations:

If it’s time to get your romance on, start planning your dream destination.

Love&Sex Expert
Cherie Hamilton

I’ve always been inspired by women who are outgoing, very sure of themselves, and not afraid to be who they were, including their sex lives. Under their tutelage, I gradually shed my old self, hung out and socialized with them, and, over time, became the empowered, self-confident, and sexual woman I am today. Happy to share my insights with other women today!

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