There’s something magical about travelling with the person you love. But romance isn’t just about candlelit dinners and roses (though those certainly have their place). It’s also about finding destinations that create the perfect backdrop for connection, intimacy, and discovering new things about each other.
The world’s most romantic destinations understand this balance, offering experiences that feel both extraordinary and personal. Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary, planning a proposal, or simply wanting to reconnect away from the demands of everyday life, the right destination can transform an ordinary getaway into something truly unforgettable.
These five destinations might not be what you’d expect when it comes to romantic places to travel with your partner. But each of them offers something different for every kind of couple, and is well worth checking out on your next adventure together.
Provence – For Dreamy Scenery
Picture rolling hills carpeted in purple lavender as far as the eye can see, punctuated by ancient stone farmhouses where the scent of herbs mingles with warm summer air that seems to slow time itself. France has long been a country associated with romance, and Provence is an ideal destination for a dreamy, romantic vibe.
Provence embodies a certain je ne sais quoi that makes even the most practical couples suddenly understand why poets write about love under the French sun. Luxury accommodations here range from converted 18th-century farmhouses to boutique hotels where private terraces offer incredible views.
The romantic appeal lies in Provence’s ability to make grand gestures feel effortless, whether that’s a private wine tasting at a family-owned domaine, a sunset picnic among the lavender fields, or simply sharing a bottle of rosé on a terrace. Couples who choose Provence aren’t just seeking beautiful scenery; they’re looking for a place where love feels as natural and timeless as the landscape itself.
Yorkshire Dales – For Rugged, Romantic Seclusion
The Yorkshire Dales offer a completely different kind of romance, but one that’s certainly still worth enjoying. Experience dramatic moorland vistas, cosy stone cottages, and the kind of wild beauty that makes couples feel like they’re the only two people in the world.
The region’s luxury accommodations have mastered the art of combining rustic charm with sophisticated comfort. Escape to a luxury cabin in Yorkshire with a roaring fire and roll-top bath, or enjoy an exclusive retreat where floor-to-ceiling windows frame views that change with the moody weather.
This isn’t manicured countryside but rather untamed landscapes where heather-covered hills stretch toward endless skies, and ancient dry stone walls create a patchwork that’s remained virtually unchanged for centuries. Adventure-loving couples can explore hidden waterfalls and limestone caves during the day, then return to candlelit dinners featuring locally sourced ingredients that celebrate Yorkshire’s rich culinary heritage.
Mykonos – For Elegant Experiences
Mykonos has perfected the art of sophisticated romance, where whitewashed Cycladic architecture creates the perfect backdrop for experiences that feel both glamorous and authentically Greek. Luxury resorts offer infinity pools that blend with the horizon, private beach clubs where staff effortlessly anticipate your needs, and suites where traditional architecture meets contemporary luxury.
Mykonos dining elevates Greek cuisine to an art form, with both award-winning restaurants and beachfront establishments where your feet touch sand while you dine on the freshest seafood. It’s also one of the most popular gay and lesbian honeymoon destinations thanks to the island’s inclusive and welcoming atmosphere, making it a great choice for every kind of couple, especially those seeking a bit of nightlife.
Couples who choose Mykonos are seeking romance with a touch of sophistication, where natural beauty meets refined hospitality. The island’s famous windmills and cube-shaped buildings aren’t just Instagram-worthy; they create a beautiful setting for an elegant, effortless holiday.
Italian Lakes – For Outdoor Exploration
Looking for a classic European holiday destination? Lake Garda, Lake Maggiore and Lake Como create a romantic playground where dramatic Alpine scenery meets Mediterranean warmth, offering couples the perfect blend of adventure and luxury.
These glacial lakes, surrounded by mountains, provide settings so beautiful they’ve been attracting lovers and artists for centuries. Villa hotels perched on hillsides offer unparalleled romance, from historic properties to contemporary retreats with infinity pools and five-star service.
The region rewards active couples with hiking trails that wind through ancient villages, boat trips to secluded coves where you can swim in perfect privacy, and cable car rides to mountain peaks where the views stretch across multiple countries. Spend your days out and about in unspoiled scenery, and return to your accommodation to enjoy exceptional Italian hospitality.
Zanzibar – For Luxurious Coastal Relaxation
Zanzibar wraps couples in an exotic, African embrace. Powder-soft beaches meet turquoise waters so clear you can see tropical fish swimming around your ankles, all while spice-scented breezes carry the promise of adventures yet to be discovered.
This Tanzanian archipelago has mastered the delicate balance between luxury and authenticity, offering beach resorts that feel contemporary but also connected to the island’s rich Swahili culture. Accommodations range from intimate boutique properties with private beach access to overwater villas where you can slip directly from your deck into the warm Indian Ocean.
Zanzibar’s romantic appeal lies in its ability to make couples feel simultaneously pampered and adventurous. Go snorkelling with dolphins in the morning, browse spice markets in the afternoon, and dine on fresh seafood under the stars.
Make Your Romantic Travel Dreams a Reality
These five destinations prove that romance isn’t about following a formula but rather about finding places that speak to your shared sense of adventure, beauty, and connection. The magic happens when you choose a destination that matches your unique relationship dynamic and creates space for both adventure and intimacy.
