If you’re a couple who loves to travel (like us!), you’re constantly looking for new places to discover together. After all, there’s nothing better than experiencing new things and making memories with your significant other. But if you’re not entirely sure where to go, that’s where we come in. Here are 30 bucket list travel destinations for couples you should keep in mind when deciding on your next trip.
1. Lake Atitlan, Guatemala
Lake Atitlan is a premier destination for couples in Guatemala. Here, you’ll stay in one of the many villages dotted around the lake, offering you stunning views of not only the vast lake but also the surrounding volcanoes. But besides the quaint villages you’ll no doubt enjoy exploring, what really makes this destination perfect for couples is that the hotels are absolutely stunning and atmospheric. Some standout hotels in Lake Atitlan include Casa del Mundo and Hotel Casa Palopo. Plus, there are so many things to do in Lake Atitlan to keep you busy when you’re not lazing around in your romantic hotel.
Do you want Lake Atitlan to be a part of your larger Guatemala trip with your partner? Head on over to our full Guatemala itinerary for more ideas on where to go!
2. Bali, Indonesia
Bali is a bucket list trip for many, but it is a particular draw for couples. Stunning temples, amazing coffee, gorgeous views, snorkeling, hot weather, and friendly locals… what’s not to like? Here, you can be as lazy or as active as you want. You can chill in a romantic villa with your partner, but if you and your partner like to go on adventures, you can hop on a scooter and go on off-road adventures discovering waterfalls across the island. Plus, Bali is probably one of the most photogenic destinations in the world, so you’ll be coming home with some amazing photos of memories with your significant other.
Have you decided to go to Bali for a romantic trip with your partner? Here’s our ultimate Bali itinerary for 10 days!
3. Oaxaca, Mexico
Heading over to Mexico? One of the most romantic places to visit in the entire country is Oaxaca. Oaxaca is the food capital of Mexico (which is saying a lot!), so this is one of the best couples travel destinations for food lovers. Here, you and your partner will be eating different types of moles, tamales, tluayudas, and so much more! Besides the food, Oaxaca, a UNESCO Heritage Site, is a gorgeous city to explore and walk around with plenty of things to do. The city and region are also known for their chocolate and mezcal, both of which are known aphrodisiacs.
Here’s our Oaxaca itinerary if you’re heading here for your next romantic trip with your partner.
4. Florence, Italy
Italy is an incredibly romantic destination, and it’s been popular amongst couples for years. While you really can’t go wrong in terms of where to go in Italy, one destination that really sticks out is Florence. Florence was the birthplace of the Renaissance, and the city boasts some of the country’s most stunning sights, including the famous Duomo and Ponte Vecchio. Beyond the city of Florence, you can also rent a vintage car and go for a ride in the Tuscan countryside. During your trip, you’ll drink wine and eat a lot of pasta and Florentine steak. What could be more romantic than that?
5. Cusco, Peru
There are a great many romantic things to do in Cusco, but one of the main reasons couples go to Cusco is to see Machu Picchu. Machu Picchu is one of the World’s New Seven Wonders of the World and is the backdrop to many proposals (incidentally, almost ours, too!). There’s nothing more romantic than waiting above the clouds in the morning for that moment when the clouds pass and reveal the incredible Machu Picchu underneath! Besides a trip to Machu Picchu, during your time in Cusco, you’ll cuddle up in alpaca sweaters, stroll through San Blas, and visit some hot springs in the area.
Interested in seeing Machu Picchu? Check out our guide to the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu.
6. South Island, New Zealand
If you’re a couple that loves adventure, there’s no better place to go than the South Island of New Zealand. While both islands of New Zealand are absolutely stunning and bucket list destinations for many travelers around the world, the South Island has a particular charm about it. Here, you can explore some of New Zealand’s wild beaches, watch some tiny blue penguins and huge whales, climb glaciers, and go bungee jumping. There’s no shortage of activities! And if you’re looking to balance the adventures with something calm, you can head to Queenstown and soak in some hot springs or take pictures by the gorgeous Lake Wanaka.
7. Galapagos, Ecuador
The Galapagos are a must for any couple’s bucket list! These volcanic islands are located off the coast of Ecuador and can be a bit more difficult to get to as they limit visitors. But this means you’ll be able to better enjoy the absolutely stunning natural beauty of the islands without battling hoards of tourists! The Galapagos Islands are the perfect destination for beach and animal lovers. Here, you’ll see some awesome birds and swim with adorable seals. Some of the beaches you’ll visit during your time in the Galapagos are entirely empty, so you can enjoy the pristine white sand and gorgeous blue waters with only the animals to keep you and your partner company.
8. Tulum, Mexico
Tulum has a very specific vibe. And it is not for every type of traveler. If boho and jungle glam vibes with boutique hotels and great food sounds like a dream destination to you, Tulum is the place to be! While Cancun to the north of the town may draw in party-goers from people around the world, Tulum is more of an Instagrammable and romantic destination, where your days will be filled with bike rides and acai bowls. Of course, Tulum does host some pretty epic beach parties, but this is also a great place to relax by the beach.
We spent a month in Tulum as digital nomads, so make sure to check out our complete guide to Tulum.
If you want to Instagram your trip (what’s the point in going on holiday without showing it off at some point?), check out our list of 100+ couple travel quotes to help you caption it.
9. Halong Bay, Vietnam
One of the most magical places in Southeast Asia is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Halong Bay in Northern Vietnam. What attracts so many visitors to this beautiful bay is the thousands of limestone island formations scattered across an area of 1,500 square kilometers. The best way to experience Halong Bay is to take a one or two-night cruise through the bay on a junk boat. These cruises range in price and amenities. Some are geared toward budget backpackers, while others are more luxurious and designed for couples and families. Unless you are on a super tight budget, we highly recommend steering clear of the cheapest tours and at least opting for a mid-range cruise.
Halong Bay is a truly unique destination and is one of the most breathtaking natural places we have ever been.
10. Paris, France
Call us generic, but there really is a spell that Paris casts, especially on a couple of travelers. Paris is one of the most romantic cities in the world, which shouldn’t come as a surprise since Paris’s nickname is “The City of Love”. There is something for everyone to love in this city, and history buffs, foodies, and those just looking for a romantic vacation will all be enchanted by Paris.
Even though Paris is one of the most touristy cities in the world, you can still easily find quaint and quiet streets to stroll down with your partner. Our advice? Pick up a baguette, a bottle of wine, and some cheese, and have a picnic, there are plenty of beautiful parks in the city!
11. Santorini, Greece
Santorini is a picture-perfect honeymoon destination, where whitewashed buildings with characteristic blue roofs line the hills and cliffs facing the ocean. If you’ve ever looked up honeymoon destinations, you know Santorini is always near the top of any list! Here, you can soak up awe-inspiring views of these stunning abodes by riding the Santorini cable car. Then, hop on a boat from the atmospheric Old Port area to Nea Kameni for a relaxing dip in the hot springs. But the most romantic thing of all? Watching the stunning sunsets!
12. Cappadocia, Turkey
A true fairytale destination, Cappadocia’s lunar-like landscape consists of iconic ‘fairy chimney’ pointed tuff rocks, underground cities, centuries-old cave churches, and otherworldly homes carved into the rocks. A hand-in-hand walk around attractions such as Göreme and Monks Valley makes for a truly whimsical experience. However, if you’re looking for romance, truly nothing beats a flight on a hot air balloon over Cappadocia in time for sunrise. You could also organize a photoshoot from one of the rooftops on one of the days you are not riding in the hot air balloon itself.
13. Whistler, Canada
Looking for a more wintery destination to spend with your partner? What better way to bond than by getting active on the gleaming white slopes of Whistler in Canada? This world-renowned ski resort is ideal for complete novices through to carving veterans, boasting over 200 marked trails of varying difficulties. While your days will be filled with skiing down breath-taking runs, breaking for lunch at mid-mountain lodges, and soaking up incredible views of winter wonderland landscapes, your romantic evenings can include candlelit dinners and après ski cocktails at slope-side bars. You’ll find shops, restaurants, and plenty of bars lining the pedestrianized streets of Whistler Village, which look exactly like what you would expect the inside of a snow globe to look like.
14. Porto, Portugal
Baroque churches and traditional azulejos tile-covered homes lining cobbled streets transport you to a bygone era of charm and romance in Porto, Portugal’s second-largest city. Stunning landmarks that’ll fill your heart with wonder include Bolsa Palace, the Church of Saint Francis, and the Luis I Bridge. When you’re not sightseeing, you can dig into delicious Portuguese cuisine in traditional tabernas and explore historic port cellars such as Graham’s Lodge. Just beyond the city’s limits is the Douro Valley, which has been a wine-producing region for over two millennia. What’s more romantic than drinking port and wine together as you explore a stunning city?
15. Zanzibar, Tanzania
A paradisiacal island off the eastern coast of Africa complete with tropical beaches, Zanzibar is one of the best spots in the Indian Ocean for sun and sand. Nungwi Beach is one of the most popular sandy strips on the north coast, where you can watch rescued turtles being rereleased into the ocean every February. You could also head to the east coast for choppy tides and water sports like kitesurfing. When you need a break from the beach, explore the UNESCO-listed Stone Town, where you’ll experience a vibrant mix of Arabian, Swahili, European, and Indian cultures, plus a plethora of architectural gems that date back to the 18th and 19th centuries. But beyond exploring, Zanzibar is the resort destination for ultimate relaxation if that’s more your vibe.
16. Maldives
Arguably the most romantic islands in the Indian Ocean are the Maldives, home to private island resorts, turquoise oceans filled with stunning coral reefs, and palm-fringed, white-sand beaches that seduce with their unspoiled beauty. No matter where you stay, you’ll have access to boat and snorkeling tours, fine restaurants serving local and international delights, cocktail bars on the beach, diverse marine habitats, and so much more. To really amp up the romance during your trip to the Maldives, we recommend booking an overwater bungalow, which the Maldives are famous for!
17. Kyoto, Japan
With its gilded temples, lantern-lit shrines, and opulent palaces from bygone eras, it’s no wonder Kyoto is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. One of the most romantic places in Kyoto has to be Sannenzaka Slope, where you can admire traditional wooden buildings and local diners. Other inspiring spots include the Golden Pavilion and the Yasaka Shrine. These historic landmarks are a sight to behold at any time of the year, hand-in-hand with your partner. But if possible, you might want to book your stay in late March or April, when blooming cherry blossoms take over places like Maruyama Park.
18. Basque Country, Spain
If you want to avoid the crowds of Madrid and Barcelona, visit Spain’s beautiful Basque Country to discover charming cities with narrow streets and sprawling natural vistas. The sheer number of Michelin-starred restaurants in the Basque Country makes it a must-visit destination for food-loving couples. You’ll find lots of tasty restaurants in San Sebastián, where you can spend your days lounging on the beach. Bilbao is another mecca for gastronomy, not to mention a blend of historic and modern architecture, cultural vibrancy, and scenic vineyards. All of which make for a perfectly romantic trip away!
19. Amalfi Coast, Italy
Home to picturesque towns that climb the cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean, Italy’s Amalfi Coast is perfect for couples looking for romance, relaxation, and adventure. Soak up the romantic atmosphere while meandering the cobbled streets and colorful buildings of Positano, Amalfi, Ravello, and Sorrento. You can take in panoramic views of these cliffside towns from the ocean by joining a boat excursion. For unbeatable views of the ocean itself, take your better half hiking along the Sentiero degli Dei (Path of Gods). Other couples’ activities on the Amalfi Coast include wine tasting, cooking classes, and shopping. The Amalfi Coast is a famous couples’ destination for a reason!
20. Whitsunday Islands, Australia
The Whitsunday Islands are a chain of 74 islands off the coast of Queensland. These islands are not only home to some of Australia’s best white-sand beaches, but they also serve as a jumping-off point for scuba diving at the Great Barrier Reef. For a uniquely romantic experience, consider joining a multi-day boat tour to the most stunning destinations in the Whitsunday Islands. Alternatively, book a flight in a helicopter over Heart Reef. When you want to top up your tan, just simply grab your beach towel to laze around at Whitehaven Beach. The beach might be a hotbed for tourists, but with a sandy strip stretching over four miles, you won’t struggle to find your own parcel of paradise that you can share with just your special someone.
21. Barbados
The west coast of Barbados is home to numerous high-end resorts with facilities such as luxurious pools, restaurants, and spas for couples. And being on the west coast means you’ll be privy to an exceptional view of the sunset. As you’d expect from a tropical island paradise, relaxing on sandy beaches and boat excursions to exciting snorkeling spots are among the most popular activities in Barbados. But you can also tour world-famous rum distilleries, fine dine at clifftop eateries, explore botanical gardens, and join tours to landmarks that include Rihanna’s childhood home. With such temperate ocean conditions, Barbados is the perfect island for a romantic paddle.
22. Cotswolds, England
If you want to soak up the best of England’s famously gorgeous countryside, you should plan a vacation to the Cotswolds, a picturesque area of outstanding natural beauty. Rolling hills, meadows, and sprawling fields aside, the Cotswolds is dotted with quaint ‘chocolate-box’ towns and villages filled with charming cottages and quintessentially English pubs and cafés. Some of the most popular stops in the Cotswolds include Castle Combe, Burton-on-the-Water, and Stow-on-the-Wold. The most vibrant town in the region is likely Cheltenham, known for its elegant Regency architecture and bustling atmosphere.
23. Napa Valley, California
What could be more romantic than a trip to the USA’s most famous wine region? California’s Napa Valley is a wonderland of vine-covered hills and stunning views. The best way to take in these views is to hop aboard the Napa Valley Wine Train. While you’re touring the vineyards of Napa Valley, you’ll have the chance to sample some of the world’s most highly revered wine varietals. After a tipsy day of sipping fine wines, you can retire to a luxury resort complete with restaurants and spa facilities.
24. Reykjavik, Iceland
If you’re a couple that loves connecting with nature, take a trip to Iceland’s capital city of Reykjavik. This bustling city has no shortage of shopping destinations, fine restaurants, and cultural attractions, but it also boasts unique offerings such as the geothermal-heated waters of the Blue Lagoon and the mesmerizingly misty Seljalandsfoss waterfall. And, of course, while you’re here, you must book a 4×4 tour into the wilderness to see one of our planet’s most awe-inspiring natural light shows – the Northern Lights. We also recommend joining a whale-watching boat tour.
25. Bruges, Belgium
Bruges is one of those cities that looks like it belongs in a fairytale. Its incredibly well-preserved medieval city center has been deservedly classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000. Thanks to the city’s network of historic canals, you can enjoy the view of this enchanting urban landscape during a romantic boat tour. Don’t forget to visit the Minnewaterbrug (Lover’s Bridge), which is said to provide ever-lasting love to all couples that cross it. In the evening, you can let your hair down by sampling local beers from countless breweries. Besides beer, Bruges is well-known for its artisanal chocolate – the perfect aphrodisiac for any couple.
26. Lausanne, Switzerland
Perched on the shore of Lake Geneva, Lausanne offers postcard-perfect views of the snow-capped Alps, a view that’s as beautiful as the city itself. Lausanne’s old town is bursting with majestic Gothic architecture dating back centuries. Some of the most inspiring medieval landmarks include the 13th-century Lausanne Cathedral and the 14th-century Château Saint-Maire. And that’s not all. When you want to get away from the city, ride the cable car into the mountains to dine at rotating restaurants that offer amazing views of Lausanne and the Alps.
27. Venice, Italy
The canal-laden city of Venice has long been considered one of the best bucket list travel destinations for couples on Earth. Here, you’ll walk along the Rialto Bridge to watch the hues of the sunset bouncing off the Grand Canal, and you’ll understand why. On top of its iconic waterways and canals, Venice is a mecca for architecture, history, and food enthusiasts. St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace are excellent examples of the city’s iconically intricate buildings. You’ll find great Italian food in pretty much all parts of the city. We recommend hurrying if you want to see Venice with your partner before it sinks!
28. Marrakech, Morocco
If you’re looking for something a bit different and, perhaps, chaotic, Marrakech could be a great travel destination. A true multi-sensory treat, Marrakech enchants couples with its Berber and Moorish architecture, bustling souks, and intoxicating aromas of blossoms and spices. While exploring the historic streets of Medina, you’ll be entertained by the likes of musicians, storytellers, and street performers in the iconic Jemaa el-Fna Square. For street food and handcrafted treasures, stroll through souks such as Souk Semmarine and Souk El Attarine. Besides the chaos you’ll find outside, you’ll also find plenty of restaurants, casual cafés, and rooftop restaurants to take your partner on a date.
29. Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul is probably one of the most incredibly diverse places to visit. It’s been a capital of the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman Empires, so it’s a true treasure trove of architectural wonders and cultural diversity. But if you plan to make a romantic trip to Istanbul, make sure you are comfortable with crowds! Crowd jostling is pretty much synonymous with Istanbul, especially at historic sites like the Hagia Sophia and the Topkapi Palace. You should also head over to the Grand Bazaar, where you’ll find plenty of bites and gifts to purchase. Istanbul is also a great base to explore the rest of Turkey!
30. Agra, India
Agra is home to the Taj Mahal, which might just be the most iconic symbol of love, romance, and beauty in the world. This monumental palace-like building was constructed over a period of 20 years during the 17th century by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan as a mausoleum for his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal. While exploring the Taj Mahal is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for most couples, there’s more to do during your stay in Agra. Here, you can take a guided tour through the old city of Agra, explore the grand tomb of the Mughal Emperor Akbar, and take in the sunset from the Mehtab Bagh garden complex overlooking the Yamuna River.
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