A Winter Wonderland With Natural Hot Springs, The Next Big European Island Destination, And More Seriously Romantic Destinations Perfect For Couples
When it comes to planning a vacation, the options are endless. But if you're looking for a special couple's getaway, certain destinations stand out among the rest. So, whether you're booking a Valentine's Day escape, a honeymoon, babymoon, or just an exceptional trip with your favorite travel buddy, consider these — both in the US and beyond. (And if I missed your favorite destination, leave it in the comments!)
New Line Cinema
UNITED STATES, CANADA, & MEXICO:
1.Sedona, Arizona
Whether you're looking to relax at the spa, explore the great outdoors, or meditate among the mystical pull of the red rocks, Sedona has something for every type of couple (and, as an added bonus, pleasant weather year-round). There's something otherworldly about the landscape of this southwestern town, and it's hard not to feel captivated by the spiritual vibes when you step foot in Sedona.
Outdoor enthusiasts can hike some of the many trails that offer vistas of red-rock spires, buttes, canyons, and forested creeks. (For starters, explore Red Rock State Park, Slide Rock State Park, or Cathedral Rock.) There are also plenty of scenic byways for taking in the views. Those looking for relaxation can check into one of Sedona's many luxurious resorts like L'Auberge de Sedona, Enchantment Resort, or Amara Resort and Spa. And couples with a serious knack for adventure can book a hot air balloon ride over the dizzying desert landscape.
2.Savannah, Georgia
If you're looking for an easy weekend getaway, you can't go wrong with Savannah. It’s hard to imagine a quainter city than this one, home to bed-and-breakfasts galore, streets lined with oak trees, and Parisian-inspired parks dripping in Spanish moss.
Picnic in Forsyth Park, stroll around Bonaventure Cemetery (yes, it's romantic, I promise), take a kayak tour and paddle along some of Savannah's best scenery, or depending on the time of year, visit Tybee Island, a beach destination just 30 minutes from downtown Savannah.
There are no shortage of cute accommodations, but Perry Lane Hotel and the Mansion on Forsyth Park stand out among the rest. As for dining, don't miss a classic southern meal with an atmosphere to match at The Olde Pink House, and for one of the best dinners in town, book a table at The Grey, housed in a1938 art deco Greyhound Bus Terminal.
3.Kauai, Hawaii
There's a reason why Hawaii is one of the most popular honeymoon spots on the map, particularly the island of Kauai. Its nickname, "the garden island," is perfectly suiting: Just take a look at the tropical rainforests, mountain ridges, and dramatic green cliffs jutting over the Pacific ocean.
It's home to some of the most stunning beaches in the world (Poipu Beach and Hanalei Bay are two pristine swimming spots), and hiking trails like Kalalau Trail to Hanakapiai Beach that can only be called breathtaking. As you gaze at the island's scenery, you might be convinced you've entered a scene from Jurassic Park, parts of which were, in fact, filmed along Kauai's shores.
Kauai is smaller, less developed, and gives off a vibe that is a bit more off-the-beaten-path than islands like Oahu or Maui, but you can still find plenty of luxury here. The family-owned Waimea Plantation Cottages is an affordable seaside oasis, while the sustainable 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay, a brand-new addition to the island, is guaranteed to be incredible.
4.Montreal, Canada
Want to feel like you're in France without leaving the continent? That's just one of the allures of Montreal. Just over the Canadian border, Montreal is an elegant and charming city where you can eat in Parisian-style bistros and hear French spoken, all without flying over the Atlantic.
There's no doubt that winters can be chilly here, but book a room at Hotel Nelligan in the Old Port and you'll instantly feel the cozy vibes. Explore the cobblestone streets and European-inspired architecture of Old Montreal, warm up over a meal of poutine, go ice skating, pamper yourself with a spa treatment at Bota Bota, satisfy your sweet tooth a sugar shack, tour the city by cross country ski trail, or attend one of the city's winter festivals like Nuit Blanche or Montreal en Lumière.
During the warmer months, walk up Mount Royal and picnic in the park, visit the farmer's market, check out street art in the Plateau and Mile End neighborhoods, or take a food tour. As for dining, whether you want to try a classic bistro meal (L'Express is always a great choice) or indulge in a tasting menu (try Hoogan et Beaufort or Candide), there's no doubt that Montreal is a serious food city.
5.Kennebunkport, Maine
The great state of Maine is called "Vacationland" for a reason. And while much of Maine really comes alive during the summer, its coastal towns can be truly idyllic year-round. Take, for example, Kennebunkport, located in southern Maine just an hour and a half from Boston.
It doesn't get much cozier than a stay at the White Barn Inn, which boasts an indulgent spa and a destination-worthy hotel restaurant with an ultra-seasonal, constantly changing menu. In the off-season, Kennebunkport is the perfect place to lay low, take in the coastal scenery, and enjoy a respite from the crowds. During the summertime, though, the beaches come alive. If you're seeking some urban adventure, you can easily visit the nearby city of Portland, just 30 minutes north.
6.Big Sur, California
Stunning ocean views? Check. Forested hikes to beaches and cascading waterfalls? Check. Delicious dining? Yup, Big Sur has it all, making it the perfect west coast destination. Drive the whole stretch between LA and San Francisco or pick a coastal town like Monterey or Carmel-by-the-Sea to call home.
Whether you're looking for a luxury hotel like the Ventana Big Sur or a glamping experience like Treebones Resort, there's something at every price point. Visit some of the many parks, beaches, and hiking trails along this Pacific stretch like Pfeiffer Beach, Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, Partington Cove, Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, and Garrapata State Park. Then, decompress after a day outdoors in Esalen Hot Springs.
There's no shortage of great spots for food-lovers in Big Sur, but make sure to fuel up for the day at Big Sur Bakery, enjoy a meal with an ocean view at Nepenthe, or splurge on a romantic dinner at Sierra Mar.
7.San Miguel de Allende, Mexico
While it's easy to associate Mexico with the sandy beaches of Cancun or Cabo San Lucas, don't underestimate the charm of San Miguel de Allende. Located in the Bajio mountains in Guanajuato (a few hour's drive or short flight from Mexico City), this colonial city feels a little bit like Mexico and Europe blended into one colorful locale.
The downtown area with its Spanish-style architecture is small enough to explore by foot, but there's plenty to see. For decades, San Miguel has attracted artists, and it's very much a cultural hub where you'll find art galleries, boutiques, mezcalerias, craft artisan markets, live music, and more. The food scene is also great, and many restaurants blend Mexican and international flavors like Zibu Allende where you can try Thai-Mexican fusion.
While you'll want to explore el centro, consider staying in Los Balcones, a flower-studded neighborhood in the hills just beyond downtown that is filled with adorable bed and breakfasts like Casa Delphine.
8.Stowe, Vermont
Located at the foot of Mount Mansfield, Stowe is a great destination for all seasons. In the wintertime, travelers hit the ski slopes. In the autumn, it's known as one of the most beautiful destinations for foliage, and spring and summer temperatures make it a beautiful New England country escape.
The Stone Hill Inn is a secluded and romantic bed and breakfast perfect for couples. Depending on what season you visit, you can taste fresh Vermont maple syrup at Nebraska Knoll Sugar Farm, explore picturesque Main Street, visit an orchard for warm apple cider and donuts, hike around Smugglers' Notch State Park and into a waterfall at Moss Glen Falls, treat yourselves to a spa treatment at Topnotch Resort, go brewery hopping, or take a half-day trip to the nearby town of Woodstock.
9.The Catskills, New York
Just a two-hour drive from New York City, the Catskills region is an ideal place to trade the hustle and bustle of city life for a breath of fresh air. Pick one of the many quaint towns like Tannersville, Woodstock, or Livingston Manor as your base for exploring the area.
In recent years, city-dwellers and Brooklynites have resettled here, putting the Catskills on the map as a food destination. WM Farmer and Sons, Phoenicia Diner, and Brushland Eating House are three local favorite restaurants. And there's also Sunshine Colony for natural wine, Woodstock Brewing, and Seminary Hill Orchard & Cidery.
Depending on the season, you can go skiing Hunter Mountain, trekking Kaaterskill Falls or Overlook Mountain, river tubing, hopping between farmer's markets and orchards, or shopping for antiques and vintage clothing around town.
INTERNATIONAL:
10.Hokkaido, Japan
If you're version of a romantic vacation entails slurping down big bowls of ramen then retiring back to your own private hot springs to watch the snow fall, then Hokkaido is just the place you're dreaming of.
Zaborin is a ryokan (or traditional Japanese bed and breakfast) that is ideal for couples. Each room has minimalistic decor, sweeping forest views, and private indoor and outdoor onsen tubs.
During the cold months, this northernmost of Japan's islands is a winter wonderland thanks to its powdery snow and volcanic hot springs. Come summertime, you'll find colorful fields overflowing with sunflowers and lavender, enchanting villages like Biei and Furano, crystal blue ponds and waterfalls, crater lakes, and mountains complete with hiking trails.
And of course, food-lovers should make note that Hokkaido boasts some of the absolute best seafood in the entire world in addition to breweries and sake distilleries galore.
11.Folegandros, Greece
While Santorini might be the island that comes to mind when you think of the Cyclades, Folegandros is a gem in the Aegean Sea. Whereas Santorini's landscape is polished and pristine, Folegandros is more of a rustic beauty (think: jutting, windswept cliffs overlooking the cerulean water, and remote walking trails leading to tiny churches surrounded by countryside).
And while crowds are difficult to escape in Santorini, it's easy to feel like the only tourist in Folegrandros. The Chora, the island's main hub, is a maze-like town filled with courtyard restaurants, bright pink bougainvillea, and leafy town squares. Stay at Anemomilos, a family-run boutique hotel just a stone's throw from all the action in the Chora.
Spend the days exploring the intricate network of walking trails that connect just about every inch of this tiny island. Or, go beach hopping from cove to cove, breaking for lunch at Papalagi Seafood where the catch of the day was quite literally just swimming.
12.Tuscany, Italy
It's hard not to equate Tuscany with romance. There's something so magical about the lush, rolling hills of the Italian countryside, which are dotted with wineries, medieval hilltop towns, and stunning borgos-turned-hotels. From Pienza and Montepulciano to San Gimignano and Cortona, each and every Tuscan town feels like something straight out of a storybook, complete with fortressed walls,
Stay at the five-room Follonico, which looks out among sprawling hills and vineyards of Val d'Orcia. Relax poolside at the inn, go wine tasting at one of Tuscany's renowned estates in the hills of Chianti or Montalcino, try truffle hunting, and of course, enjoy the bounty of your search over freshly made pasta), relax in Saturnia thermal hot springs, or just drive around and admire the epic views.
And while you might be quick to associate Tuscany with the countryside, remember that this central Italian region stretches across plenty of coastline. Visit one of the charming Italian beach towns of Forte dei Marmi, Porto Ercole, or Viareggio.
13.Marrakesh, Morocco
It's hard to not feel enchanted by Marrakesh. It must have something to do with all the vibrant colors of the city — the bright rooftop terraces drenched in flora, the labyrinth alleyways of the medina, intricate tile work lining doors and walls, and tapestries flapping in the wind.
Because this North African city is warm year-round, there's really no bad time to visit. Get lost among the sights, smells, and sounds of the medina, soak in a traditional hammam bath house, shop in the souks for hand-woven rugs, soaps, spices, and leather goods galore, stroll around the verdant gardens at the Jardin Majorelle, take in the opulence of Bahia Palace, and feast on fluffy couscous and stewed tagines.
There are plenty of hotel options, but for the most romantic (and authentic) experience, consider staying in a riad, a traditional Moroccan-style home built around a lush courtyard garden. Riad Sadaka and Riad Kniza are two great options, but there are tons of riads, and they are often reasonably priced.
14.Seville, Spain
Spain has no shortage of bustling cities and picture-perfect beach towns to explore, but there's something special about Seville. The capital of Spain's Andalusia region, Seville is oozing with old Spanish charm. The Moorish-inspired city is big enough to keep you exploring but small enough to feel manageable, even if you only have a long weekend to spare.
Make your basecamp at Corral del Rey, a restored 17th-century palace tucked away in the narrow streets of the old quarter. As you walk around the Barrio de Santa Cruz, home to Plaza España, the impressive Real Alcázar palace, and the iconic Seville Cathedral, you'll spot intricate gardens and city streets lined with orange trees.
Rent bikes and pedal all around the city, exploring its unique neighborhoods, get Andalusian culture by booking a Flamenco show, and make sure to eat tapas to your heart's content. Among the thousands of tapas bars that line Seville's streets, you don't want to miss El Rinconcillo, one of the oldest restaurants in Spain.
15.Turks and Caicos
If your idea of a romantic getaway includes velvet sand and crystal clear sea, look no further than Turks and Caicos. A quick plane ride from Miami takes you to this tropical paradise, home to some of the bluest water in all of the Caribbean.
Most tourists head to the popular island of Providenciales, which is close to the airport. This island boasts a ton of beachfront hotels and seaside restaurants like Da Conch Shack where you can chow down to the sound of the lapping waves. For couples seeking something more remote, visit the smaller Turks Islands — a series of islets and cays — that feel worlds away from civilization.
16.Bariloche, Argentina
At the northern side of Argentina's Patagonia region sits the mountain town of Bariloche. It's a must-visit spot for outdoorsy couples given that the jewel of Bariloche is Nahuel Huapi, a national park and a glacial lake of the same name with the bluest water you could imagine. Frequent flights from the capital city of Buenos Aires make it an easy destination to tack onto your Argentinian itinerary.
There are endless activities for couples. Book a private lake tour around Isla Victoria complete with beach hopping and a picnic lunch. Hike one of the popular treks like Refugio Frey, Cerro Campanario, or Cerro Llao Llao. Take a day trip to drive the scenic Seven Lakes Route. And don't forget to taste plenty of chocolate, as Bariloche is the country's chocolate capital. There are also lots of craft breweries like the ever-popular Cerveza Patagonia.
As for lodging, Hotel Llao Llao is the most lavish option in the area, complete with a luxurious spa, a golf course, and views that look like they're straight out of a postcard.
17.Madeira, Portugal
It's possible you've never even heard of this Portuguese archipelago just off the coast of northwest Africa, but Madeira might just be the next big European travel destination. It may be small in size, but there is so much to explore here.
The capital city of Funchal might remind you of Lisbon with its covered produce markets, old town square, bakeries selling pastels de nata, buildings covered in colorful hand-painted tiles, great restaurants such as Kampo, and sweeping views of the sea (make sure to take a cable car ride for the best vistas). But just beyond the city there's endless nature to explore.
There are black sand beaches, wineries (like Quinta do Barbusano), hiking trails galore along the island's thousands of levadas or walking trails, and you'll definitely want to hop on a catamaran cruise to see dolphins leaping beside you in the sea. Sun-worshippers can beach hop just outside of Funchal or get even more off the grid by taking a ferry to Porto Santo Island.
18.Costa Rica
How do palm-fringed beaches, verdant rainforests, and striking volcanic peaks sound for your romantic getaway? For that and more, look no further than Costa Rica.
Costa Rica boasts a ton of different landscapes and dozens of incredible national parks. Nayara Springs is an adults-only resort in La Fortuna, the gateway to the Arenal Volcano, where you can explore waterfalls, relax in natural hot springs, raft down river rapids, and hike to hidden turquoise swimming holes.
Monteverde is known for its giant cloud forest and is a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts. Then there's Manuel Antonio, a popular resort town just beyond its namesake national park where howler and spider monkeys roam. Finally, there's the luxurious Papagayo Peninsula with its many luxe hotels and the beach towns of Tamarindo and Santa Teresa, two laid-back surfing villages on the Pacific coast where lush forests meet the sea.
