50 Best Romantic Vacations for Couples

What’s your idea of a perfect romantic getaway? For some couples, it’s all about relaxing on a beach somewhere tropical and sunny, while others prefer a new adventure in an exciting, fast-paced destination. Whatever your travel style, we’ve got you covered with our list of romantic destinations in the United States and around the world.

• Best tourist destination: Scotland
• Underrated hidden gem: Chassignolles, France
• Best for beaches: British Virgin Islands
• Best for outdoor adventure: Montana
• Best for foodies: Tuscany

From ski resorts in Colorado to the wildlife-rich Galápagos Islands, these are 50 of the most romantic getaways around the world.

Scotland

Wander through rolling green sheep pastures and walk through centuries of history in Scotland, with plenty of tea breaks and pub visits. Hike up to Arthur’s Seat for sweeping views, check out Edinburgh’s Old Town for quaint architecture and fun museums (such as the Writers’ Museum), and wander down the Royal Mile to take in street performers. Be sure to stop at a whiskey distillery for a sip or two — try Highland Park or Old Pulteney — and consider staying at Gleneagles Hotel, a 2023 readers’ favorite, which sits on an 850-acre estate and has its own train station.

Private island Eilean Shona on Scotland’s west coast claims it’s the inspiration for Neverland in “Peter Pan.” Explore the island’s 2,000 acres of pristine moor and secluded paths, taking breaks to swim, paint, picnic, and kayak, before retiring to one of eight rustic-chic cottages.

Chassignolles, France

This village in the Livradois-Forez Regional Natural Park east of Clermont-Ferrand is secluded and rural — perfect for couples looking to get away from it all. You can check out the local farms and wander among the country lanes. Charming guesthouse/restaurant Auberge de Chassignolles is the only accommodation in town, with nine rooms situated next to the village’s 12th-century church

British Virgin Islands

Play in the water and lounge on the sand at postcard-perfect beaches like Cane Garden Bay, Smuggler’s Cove, and Spring Bay, or sail to Anegada Island. Check out Scrub Island Resort, Spa & Marina, which sits on its own 230-acre private island at the east end of Tortola. It has 52 guest accommodations, plus two-, three-, four- and six-bedroom villas, a spa, restaurants, two private beaches, and a 55-slip marina.

Montana

Explore the wide-open plains and enjoy the breathtaking night skies in Montana. While on your trip, stay at a guest ranch where you can experience outdoor activities, such as Flathead Lake Lodge, a lake-front family-run guest ranch less than an hour south of Glacier National Park. Or stay at Snow Bear Chalets, ski-in/ski-out treehouses located slopeside at Whitefish Mountain Resort in Whitefish, Montana.

Tuscany

Tuscany is the perfect place for a romantic getaway — it’s breathtakingly beautiful at every turn, with plenty of delicious food and wines to indulge in. Be sure to dine at Enoteca Pinchiorri in Florence or La Cantinetta Di Rignana in Chianti, both of which have Italian cuisine you’ll be dreaming about for years to come. Stay at Castello di Ristonchi, a 1,000-year-old medieval castle, which sits high in the Tuscan hills overlooking quaint villages, vineyards, and olive groves. Couples can even book the former watchtower at the very top; you can open your window and look out on an Italian fairytale setting.

Zihuatanejo, Mexico

This resort city on the Pacific coast in the state of Guerrero has picturesque beaches; visit Playa La Ropa or Playa Blanca for great snorkeling. The quaint town has windy roads lined with galleries and restaurants to explore; check out Suazo Art Gallery and CÉSAR Farías ARTE for local art and Rufo’s Grill, Restaurante Las Adelitas, or Restaurantes Mexicanos Any for a meal. For the ultimate romantic trip, you can stay in La Casa Que Canta, which was featured in the movie “When a Man Loves a Woman.” The terracotta villas here are sculpted into the hillside and have secluded suites.

Palm Springs, California

For a romantic weekend away from Los Angeles without driving too far, head to Palm Springs for hiking, gondola rides, golf, and warm desert air. Take the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway — the world’s largest rotating tram car — to travel 2.5 miles up to the top of Chino Canyon, where you can wander around and explore. Relax together at Avalon Palm Springs’ Estrella spa, where you can get desert-inspired treatments.

Whidbey Island, Washington

This island in the Pacific Northwest is a quick trip from Seattle (90 minutes by train or an hour or two by car, depending on weekend traffic) and offers stunningly beautiful views for the minimal effort involved in getting there. There are quaint hotels with modern amenities, such as the Inn at Langley, with hot tubs and views of the Saratoga Passage waterway. You can explore the shops in town or hike along the coastal bluffs, maybe catching sight of gray whales if you’re visiting between late February and early June.

Idyllwild, California

This rustic mountain getaway, along with neighboring Pine Cove and Fern Valley, Idyllwild is an unincorporated community (aka small town) nestled in the San Jacinto Mountains in Riverside County. It’s perfect for exploring with someone you love or for a first trip together as a couple. Stay in a small wooded cabin and then spend your time perusing the shops in town that sell homemade jams, leather hats, and candles. Try hiking the Ernie Maxwell trail for beautiful views, and if you’re in town on a Saturday, head to the town square to meet the mayor (he’s a golden retriever named Max). For dinner, sit on the patio in the mountain air at Gastrognome or Idyology.

La Paz, Mexico

La Paz is a romantic and often-overlooked destination located on the Sea of Cortez, near the southern end of Baja California Sur; the sea has such rich marine life that French explorer Jacques Cousteau famously named it the “aquarium of the world.” Today, you can try diving, kayaking, snorkeling, sailing, surfing, and island hopping there. For romantic outdoor dining, try Las Tres Virgenes or Nim.

Lake Tahoe

Experience the Reno side of the Lake Tahoe area for outdoorsy activities and intimate restaurants and hotels. Check out the Spa at Silver Legacy or the multitude of hot springs in the area for a relaxing day of romance. There’s also the Riverwalk and Midtown District to explore. On the California side, opt to stay at the Red Wolf Lakeside Lodge, which has its own dock, or the Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe, where the concierge service can arrange a day of adventure on the mountain, a round of golf, or sailing on Lake Tahoe.

Dana Point, California

This lesser-known beach town is perfect for couples, and it gets you away from the more crowded California beach spots. Do some people-watching or swimming at Salt Creek Beach or Doheny State Beach, or try walking along Bluff Top Trail. For seafood with a view, head to Chart House or Wind & Sea. Consider whale watching or an evening wine cruise with Dana Wharf during your visit, too.

Sonoma Valley, California

Celebrate an anniversary, honeymoon, or other special romantic occasion by tasting wine in this scenic part of California, which has more than 400 wineries. Take in beautiful views at Iron Horse Vineyards in Sebastopol, and then dine at some of the country’s most romantic restaurants, including LaSalette, Valette, or The Girl & The Fig. Take a wine tour through the valley, stroll through some of the state’s earliest vineyards, or bike along scenic roads with the person you love for an unforgettable trip.

St. James, Barbados

With soft white beaches, rugged cliffs, and breathtaking sunsets, Barbados is a perfect spot for a romantic getaway. Be sure to check out the Mount Gay Rum Distillery, and go swimming or snorkeling at Carlisle Bay or Brandon’s Beach. Book a room at The House, which is often voted one of the most romantic hotels in the Caribbean. Each of the 34 suites has ocean views, and the adults-only property has gardens, champagne breakfasts, and 24/7 service ambassadors.

Willemstad, Curaçao

Culture-loving couples will want to visit Willemstad, a vibrant and bustling city in the heart of Curaçao. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the capital of Curaçao and is famous for its unique Dutch-Caribbean architecture and museums. Be sure to walk across the swinging Queen Emma Bridge, visit Serena’s Art Factory to pick up Chichi dolls, and shop along the old cobblestone streets.

Bend, Oregon

This city on the Deschutes River in Oregon has tons of hiking trails, water activities, and mountain views. While in town, book a stay at Brasada Ranch, which has activities like horseback riding, stargazing with hot chocolate and s’mores, and live music nights. Dine at Ariana Restaurant, a restaurant built into a cozy bungalow, or The Blacksmith Restaurant, which was built into a former blacksmith’s workshop.

Aspen, Colorado

Outdoorsy couples will be delighted in Aspen, whether skiing to a cozy mountainside lunch or hiking through fields of lupine and columbine for a lakeside picnic. Round out your trip with a visit to the free Aspen Art Museum, which showcases contemporary work, followed by dinner at Sway, where the crispy salt-and-pepper tofu is a must. For luxe accommodations try The Little Nell, the St. Regis Aspen, or Mollie Aspen.

Chiloé, Chile

Visiting the little-known island of Chiloé is like taking a step back in time. The archipelago is made up of traditional small farms, fishermen, and craftsmen. For accommodations, look no further than luxurious Tierra Chiloé (located on Pullao Bay), which offers interesting activities including horseback riding, clam digging on the beach, sea kayaking from island to island, and hiking.

Door County, Wisconsin

Wisconsin might not sound like the most romantic place in the world, but this area has lots of secluded spots and fun activities that make it perfect for a couples trip. Check out Blacksmith Inn on the Shore, a bed and breakfast where all guest rooms have a fireplace, in-room whirlpool, and private balcony with views of Bailey’s Harbor. You can use bikes, kayaks, sleds, and snowshoes to explore the area, including the nearby Sanctuary State Natural Area, which has 1,600 acres of boreal forest.

The Oregon Coast

The majestic Oregon beaches make for stunning scenery, and the quaint beach towns have tons of activities for couples to have fun together. Visit Cannon Beach for the iconic rock formations, and check out the Tillamook Creamery for a tour and free cheese samples. For accommodations, stay at Salishan Coastal Lodge, which has 158 acres of forested land and beautiful views from all guest rooms, its own aerial park complete with zip lines, and bikes for cruising around.

Costa Rica

If exploring rainforests and lazing by the beach or getting in a surf lesson sounds like your vibe, head to Costa Rica. You can sign up for guided rainforest walks in the Osa Peninsula and then relax at Playa Cativo Lodge. Book one of eight casitas to get a private plunge pool, ideal for moonlit dips, or splash around in the resort’s large outdoor swimming pool. Activities include snorkeling, kayaking, paddle boarding, and nature hikes.

Bequia, St. Vincent

Having your own private island is the epitome of a romantic getaway, and this tropical destination gets you very close. Bequia is just seven square miles; about 5,000 people live here, but there are no gated communities, traffic lights, neon signs, or chain hotels and restaurants. To get there, travelers must take a flight to Barbados, St. Vincent, or St. Lucia, and then take either an inter-island hopper flight or a boat. Once on the island, you can stay at Bequia Beach Hotel, a tucked-away, family-owned luxury resort.

Santorini, Greece

This magical island is known as the most romantic in Greece, with turquoise waters, whitewashed houses sitting on cliffs, and beautiful beaches. During your visit to Santorini, you can stay at Grace Hotel Santorini, which sits 300 meters above the caldera. The 20 all-white accommodations feature Greek marble, custom fragrance, pillow menus, and a private plunge pool. While you’re here, go for a hike on the Fira trail for beautiful views, take in the sunset in Oia, and explore the black-sand beach.

Maui, Hawaii

Maui is the perfect destination for couples in search of a beach vacation filled with unique activities. Check out snorkeling at Black Rock on Kaanapali Beach, view hidden parts of the island on a helicopter tour with Blue Hawaiian Helicopters, and tour local farms on the slopes of Haleakala like Ocean Organic Vodka, Surfing Goat Dairy — which has an adults-only tour — and the Alii Lavender Farm.

Maine

Explore the rugged coasts and quaint towns in Maine, a perfect place to visit for a summer trip. Hike through Acadia National Park for beautiful views and, in Portland, visit the Portland Head Light or the Allagash Brewery for a tour and some samples. If you’re going to Kennebunkport, book a room at The Waldo Emerson Inn, one of the most historic places to stay on the Southern Maine coast. Once a shipbuilder’s manse, the original house was built in 1753 by Waldo Emerson, Ralph Waldo Emerson’s great-uncle. In Portland, check in at The Longfellow and enjoy a seaweed treatment at the spa.

New Mexico

New Mexico is perfect for couples looking for natural beauty and cute towns. Go stargazing at Chaco Canyon, a National Historic Park that’s been of importance to the Pueblo people since the ninth century CE and has super dark skies. In Santa Fe, wander the historic streets, stopping to dine at Geronimo, a restaurant built into an old-fashioned adobe home. Also try Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa, which opened in 1868; soak in its mineral hot springs with your S.O. and take in the sweeping mountain views.

Fredericksburg, Texas

This small town boasts more than 60 wineries, vineyards, and tasting rooms; it’s also known for its chocolate shops like El Rey or Hill Country Chocolate, where you can go for a tasting. Hop on a wine tour or have a sunset picnic at the top of Enchanted Rock, then retire for the night to one of Gastehaus Schmidt’s vacation rentals, many of which have hot tubs.

The Galápagos Islands

Visit the Galápagos Islands in Ecuador for a more adventurous take on a couples getaway. The two options for exploring these wildlife-rich islands are a small, more eco-friendly cruise, or staying on one of the islands and taking day trips. The wildlife here is incredible and unique and can be viewed on walks, hikes, or while snorkeling. Expect birds like the blue-footed booby, enormous Galápagos tortoises, basking sea lions, and more.

San Francisco, California

For an urban getaway on the West Coast, look no further than this historic and beautiful city; there are an uncountable number of options for good food, romantic places to stay, and activities to satisfy any couple. Stroll along the Fisherman’s Wharf, take a tour of the notorious Alcatraz, and bike across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. San Francisco’s food scene is wonderfully diverse, known in particular for its Chinese food; go for dim sum at City View Restaurant or the cheap and cheerful, cash-only Good Luck Dim Sum.

St. Barts

Saint Barthélemy, known as St. Barts, is a French overseas territory, a gorgeous island ringed with white beaches and crystal blue waters. Ample shallow reefs make it popular with snorkelers. The vibe here perfectly blends the sophistication of St. Tropez with the more laissez-faire Caribbean lifestyle. Book a room at Le Sereno, where the 39 rooms share a postcard-perfect private beach.

White Mountains, Arizona

Take an adventure with your significant other in these beautiful mountains high above the desert. They top out at an elevation of 11,000 feet, and they’re lesser known than Arizona’s bigger parks. Climb to the Mogollon Rim’s 2,000-foot high lookout, check out the history of prehistoric inhabitants at Tonto Natural Bridge State Park, and camp overnight at Petrified Forest National Park, an International Dark Sky Association Dark Sky Park where couples can share a night under the stars.

Malibu, California

Experience gorgeous ocean views from picturesque cliffs and visit pretty beaches and great restaurants in Malibu, California. Dine at Nobu Malibu, a beachfront spot that combines Japanese and Californian cuisines, or eat at Moonshadows, which has a tiki-themed patio and ocean views. Book a night or two at the 47-room Malibu Beach Inn, an intimate five-star hotel located on the sands of Carbon Beach.

Quebec, Canada

Take a trip to what feels like a historic European city without the long flight and jet lag. Visitors can stroll through the narrow cobblestoned streets by foot or on a horse-drawn carriage to admire the city’s famous French-colonial architecture and historic sites such as the Citadelle, the Petit-Champlain district, Place Royale, Parliament Building, and fortifications dating back to the 1600s. The Old City is also a hub for art and cuisine, with museums such as the Museum of Civilization, and unique restaurants like Alentours, a zero-waste eatery where everything on the plate comes from within 95 miles. Try staying at Auberge Saint-Antoine, a heritage building turned 95-room Relais & Châteaux property, where some rooms have fireplaces. Visit Ile d’Orleans just across the St. Lawrence River for a wine tasting and picnic lunch while overlooking the Montmorency Falls.

Phuket, Thailand

This beach town in southern Thailand has delicious food, fun nightlife, and a stunning ocean in shades of turquoise. For a romantic place to stay, book a room at Trisara, an exclusive beach resort nestled on a secluded cove along Phuket’s less-developed northwestern coast. This hideaway is set in a protected nature preserve surrounded by a tropical forest, lush gardens, and jaw-dropping ocean views. Scattered among the foliage are 61 spacious ocean-facing villas and private residences, each with its own private pool and outdoor shower.

Belize

Belize is often overlooked because of its proximity to Mexico and many Caribbean islands, but it’s perfect for a romantic getaway. The country is home to the world’s second-largest barrier reef, so be sure to go snorkeling to view the coral and marine life. For an activity on land, go to Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary in south-central Belize, where you can spot more than 300 bird species, howler monkeys, jaguarundi (a small, wild native cat), peccary (looks like a wild pig) and, if you’re extremely lucky, an elusive jaguar.

Catalina Island, California

If you live in Southern California and looking for a romantic weekend getaway alternative to Palm Springs, try Catalina Island. It’s located off the coast of Long Beach and is reachable only by a one-hour boat ride. Enjoy the Mediterranean ambiance of Avalon, one of the tiny towns on the island, and check out the huge selection of activities, including scuba diving, kayaking, and hiking. Unwind and luxuriate at one of the island’s best hotels.

St. Lucia

This Caribbean island is known for its iconic twin peaks (called the Pitons), and it has volcanic beaches, reef-diving sites, luxury resorts, and fishing villages. There are so many things to do here, including hiking the Tet Paul Nature Trail, exploring Mamiku Gardens, or taking a drive to the Soufriere Drive-in Volcano, where you can explore bubbling sulfur springs in the caldera of the dormant Qualibou volcano. While you’re there, stay at Jade Mountain, set on a cliff with open-air guest rooms with private infinity pools, four-poster canopy beds, and 24/7 butler service.

Great Rift Valley, Kenya

This region of Kenya has sweeping views overlooking the Maasai Mara, and it offers magical safaris and other experiences. Places to explore include Lake Nakuru National Park, Hippo Point, and the Crescent Island Game Sanctuary, accessible only by boat. One of the most luxurious places to stay is Angama Mara, a safari lodge on the Oloololo Escarpment, some 1,000 feet above the plains of the Maasai Mara.

Marrakesh, Morocco

This city in western Morocco is filled with history, mosques, palaces, and gardens. Take a romantic vacation and explore the medina, the walled medieval city with maze-like alleys filled with markets selling fabric, pottery, and jewelry. Book a room at El Fenn, close to the main square of Jemaa el-Fnaa. Its guest suites and rooms sit below a large roof terrace with sundecks, hanging gardens, shaded dining areas, and a swimming pool.

Norway

Take your significant other on a trip to Norway, going above the Article Circle in search of the northern lights and breathtaking scenery. Stay at the lighthouse in Senja, which has 360-degree views of the mountains, fjords, and the sky. It’s also close to Anderdalen National Park, where you can ski or snowshoe in the winter and hike in the summer.

Tanzania

This East African country has endless wilderness to take in with your love, including the plains of the incredible Serengeti National Park. A safari is a must; you’ll have multiple chances to see the country’s famous animals, including elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, and rhinos. If you and your partner are avid hikers, visit Kilimanjaro National Park, home to Africa’s highest mountain.

Virginia

“Virginia is for lovers” — and once you visit, you’ll see why. This state has a number of historic museums, gardens, and parks to explore, such as Shenandoah National Park, Meadowlark Botanical Gardens just 10 minutes outside of Tysons, and Maymont in Richmond. While checking out Virginia’s local wine scene, stay at L’Auberge Provencale, right next to the State Arboretum of Virginia in Boyce. The inn has warm hospitality, and delicious food, and some of the rooms have private patios, aromatherapy steam showers, and fireplaces. Each room is individually decorated with French country antiques and original artwork, making it feel as though you’ve been transported to Provence.

Blue Ridge, Georgia

This mountain town in northern Georgia has an artistic community, several brewpubs, and delicious restaurants like The General Ledger, known for its classic American dishes with a slight southern twist, like pecan-crusted trout. Be sure to check out Bear Claw Vineyard for its beautiful view or Mercier Orchards, the only apple orchard in Georgia that grows, presses, ferments, and bottles its own hard apple cider and farm wines. For beer, visit Grumpy Old Men Brewing, Blue Ridge Brewery, and Angry Hops Brewing, which has bingo every Tuesday.

Port Angeles, Washington

This beautiful seaside city overlooks the Strait of Juan de Fuca, between Washington state and Canada, and has a handful of homey B&Bs. Try Colette’s, Sea Cliff Gardens, and Five SeaSuns each of which has its own distinctive vibe. Olympic National Park is just 15 minutes away, with plenty of hiking. You can also ride along the Olympic Discovery Trail with a rental bike from Discover E-Bike. For a fun day trip, grab your passport and take a 90-minute ferry across to Victoria, Canada.

Daufuskie Island, South Carolina

This tiny island between Hilton Head and Savannah is only accessible by boat, offering a perfectly secluded romantic getaway. While there are no hotels on the island, there are plenty of charming Airbnbs, including super quaint cottages with inviting front porches. Roam around on two wheels with a rental bike (you can rent from Fuskie Bike, or bring your own over on the ferry) or on horseback with Daufuskie Trail Rides.

Savannah, Georgia

Combine a peaceful visit to Daufuskie Island with a couple of nights in this beautiful southern city. Book a room at The Bohemian Hotel Savannah Riverfront, and take a stroll along the river. Be sure to get some delicious southern food while you’re in town at restaurants like ultra-popular The Grey. After dinner, take a romantic walk through Forsyth Park and admire the stunning architecture of the nearby homes, which vary in style from Greek Revival to Federal.

Nova Scotia, Canada

This stunning Canadian province has rugged coastal scenery that you and your significant other will never forget. A fun excursion for two is a road trip around Cape Breton Island. Amp up the romance factor by staying in a B&B, like Bluenose Lodge in Lunenberg or the Fiddle and the Sea on Cape Breton. Be sure to check out the art galleries in Peggy’s Cove and go for a sunrise sail on Halifax Harbour. Visit Digby to see the dramatic tidal changes and wander on the beautiful beaches.

Sedona, Arizona

Relax at one of the many spas and soak in the calming spirit in this Arizona town. Book a stay at the Wilde Resort & Spa to take advantage of the beautiful setting and full-service spa. This area is known for its incredible natural beauty, so get out and go for a hike to take in all the unique rock formations. Dine at restaurants like Cress on Oak Creek, Dahl & DiLuca Ristorante, or The Golden Goose American Grill, which has both a fine dining room and an outdoor patio.

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Even if you don’t like to tango, you should definitely visit this romantic city (with someone you’d like to tango with). Book a room at Palacio Duhau—Park Hyatt Buenos Aires, a former mansion transformed into a hotel. Shop among Buenos Aires’ antique markets, like the big Sunday market in San Telmo, go for a steak dinner at La Cabera or to Sarkis for Armenian food, then try your turn at tango (or just watch) at Bar Sur.

Portugal

Portugal’s small size makes it easy to explore with your travel partner. The country has Europe’s best surfing, with big waves found at beaches like Praia do Amado in Aljezar and Praia de Carcavelos near Lisbon. Don’t miss the National Tile Museum there, which has a beautiful collection of azulejos, the painted tiles for which Portugal is known. Anyone into wine would be remiss to skip Porto, where you can do a tasting of port and chocolate, both aphrodisiacs.