10 Romantic Getaways for Couples: Dream Destinations for the Ultimate Bucket List
- Andy Honey
- Apr 11
- 6 min read
Romantic Getaways for Couples
Looking to whisk your partner away on a romantic escape?
Whether you're newlyweds, celebrating an anniversary, or just want a dreamy weekend away, I've rounded up the ultimate romantic getaways around the world.
From candlelit dinners by the sea to moonlit strolls through ancient cities — this list has something magical for a romantic getaway for couples
1. Santorini, Greece – Cliffside Sunsets & Whitewashed Bliss
Why go: Famous for its picture-perfect white buildings with blue domes, jaw-dropping sunsets, and cozy cliffside hotels, Santorini is a lovers’ paradise. Oia is the most iconic village, but don’t skip the quieter charm of Imerovigli.
What to do: Take in a sunset at Oia Castle, cruise around the caldera on a private catamaran, and relax on unique volcanic beaches with black, red, and white sand. Discover ancient ruins at Akrotiri and sip wine at local vineyards nestled on the island’s volcanic soil.
Where to eat:
Metaxi Mas (Exo Gonia) – tucked-away tavern with dreamy views and even dreamier food
Ambrosia (Oia) – intimate terrace dining perfect for proposals
Avoid: Staying in Fira during peak season if you want peace and quiet. Book ahead — places fill up fast.
2. Venice, Italy – Gondolas, Gelato & Eternal Romance
Why go: Venice is pure romance — a city where you travel by boat, sip Aperol spritz by the canal, and get lost (on purpose) in winding alleyways.
What to do: Glide along the Grand Canal in a gondola serenade, explore centuries-old art and architecture at St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace, and escape to the peaceful islands of Burano and Murano. Watch the sunrise from the Rialto Bridge with a fresh pastry in hand.
Where to eat:
Osteria alle Testiere – seafood heaven in a cozy Venetian corner
Cantina Do Mori – a 15th-century wine bar for cicchetti and romance
Avoid: Eating in tourist trap restaurants near St. Mark’s Square. Always check Google reviews and menus first.
3. Kyoto, Japan – Tranquil Temples & Cherry Blossoms
Why go: If you and your partner appreciate peaceful moments, stunning natural scenery, and culture-rich experiences, Kyoto is a dream come true — especially during sakura (cherry blossom) season.
What to do: Stroll hand in hand through the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, admire the vibrant orange torii gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine, and wander the serene gardens of Ginkaku-ji. In spring, picnic under cherry blossom trees along the Philosopher’s Path.
Where to eat:
Gion Karyo – Kaiseki dining that feels like a gentle ritual
Nishiki Market – sample everything from mochi to matcha ice cream. Try the market tour with a local foodie.
Avoid: Trying to squeeze in too many temples — choose a few and enjoy them slowly.
4. Paris, France – The Classic City of Love
Why go: It’s a cliché for a reason. Paris is elegant, dramatic, and made for long kisses under twinkling streetlights.
What to do: Picnic with wine and cheese under the Eiffel Tower, climb the stairs of Montmartre for sweeping views and art, and wander through the Louvre or Musée d'Orsay hand in hand. End your day with a moonlit cruise on the Seine.
Where to eat:
Le Comptoir du Relais – bistro charm in the Latin Quarter
Septime – Michelin-starred and ultra romantic
Avoid: Overpacking your itinerary — Paris is best enjoyed slowly with time to sit, sip, and people-watch.
Find great deals on Paris accommodation here.
5. Queenstown, New Zealand – Adventure for Two
Why go: This alpine-lake dreamland is for couples who bond over adrenaline. Think bungee jumps, skydiving, and helicopter rides… followed by wine and spa treatments.
What to do: Take a tandem bungee jump or paraglide above the mountains, kayak across Lake Wakatipu, and warm up in a luxury spa afterward. In winter, go skiing in the Southern Alps, then cozy up in a fireside lodge.
Where to eat:
Rata by celebrity chef Josh Emett
Amisfield Bistro – fabulous food with vineyard views
Avoid: Skipping travel insurance — adventure activities here can be intense.
6. Bruges, Belgium – Fairytale Canals & Cobblestone Strolls
Why go: Bruges is tiny but magical — horse-drawn carriages, cozy cafes, and medieval streets that look like a storybook.
What to do: Float down the tranquil canals at dusk, climb the 366 steps of the Belfry Tower for panoramic views, and visit the Basilica of the Holy Blood. Don’t miss the lace shops and artisan chocolate stores dotted throughout the old town.
Where to eat:
De Stove – intimate, warm, and Belgian through and through
Bij Koen & Marijke - For the best rib-eye steak in Bruges!
Avoid: Coming only as a day trip — stay overnight and enjoy the peaceful evenings.
7. Bali, Indonesia – Wellness, Waterfalls & Ocean Views
Why go: Bali has it all — jungle escapes, stunning beaches, romantic villas, and a spiritual vibe that brings couples closer.
What to do: Get lost among lush rice terraces, chase hidden waterfalls, enjoy a candlelit dinner in the jungle, and take part in a sunrise yoga session. Pamper yourselves with couples’ massages at a luxury spa retreat.
Where to eat:
Locavore – fine dining with Indonesian flair
La Lucciola – beachfront dining with magical sunsets
Avoid: Partying in Kuta unless that’s your scene — Uluwatu or Ubud is more serene.
8. Cape Town, South Africa – Wine, Waves & Wonder
Why go: Cape Town is a blend of natural beauty, world-class cuisine, and adventure. A top pick for couples who like variety in their romantic escapes.
What to do: Soar above the city via cable car to Table Mountain, enjoy wine tasting in the lush valleys of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, and stroll hand in hand with penguins at Boulders Beach. End with a beachside sunset at Camps Bay.
Where to eat:
The Pot Luck Club – playful fine dining with a view
La Colombe – consistently ranked among the best restaurants in the world
Avoid: Walking in unknown neighbourhoods at night — plan your routes in advance.
9. Banff, Canada – Cozy Cabins & Glacier Views
Why go: Think snow-dusted mountains, steamy hot springs, and fireside cuddles in a cabin. Banff is a cozy, wintry dream.
What to do: Go ice skating or canoeing on the turquoise waters of Lake Louise, hike Tunnel Mountain for panoramic photo ops, and take a dip in the historic Banff Upper Hot Springs. In winter, hit the ski slopes or enjoy a sleigh ride.
Where to eat:
The Maple Leaf – hearty Canadian fare in a romantic lodge setting
Three Ravens Restaurant & Wine Bar – fine dining with panoramic mountain views
Avoid: Driving in snowy conditions without winter tires — safety first!
10. Cinque Terre, Italy – Colourful Charm on the Italian Riviera
Why go: Five pastel-perfect villages perched on cliffs by the sea. It’s Italy at its most charming, and a great spot for long romantic hikes and seafood feasts.
What to do: Trek the scenic cliffside paths linking the five villages, relax on rocky beaches with a gelato, and toast with local white wine as fishing boats bob in the harbours. Rent a kayak and explore secret coves only accessible by water.
Where to eat:
Trattoria dal Billy (Manarola) – stunning views and fresh catch of the day
Il Pirata delle Cinque Terre (Vernazza) – legendary pastries and Italian comfort food
Avoid: Wearing flip-flops on the hiking trails — bring comfy walking shoes.
🌺 Bonus Dream Getaway: Bora Bora – Overwater Fantasy
Why go: Crystal-clear waters, private bungalows, and sunsets so perfect they look Photoshopped. Bora Bora is like stepping into a love-filled screensaver.
What to do: Book an overwater villa with direct lagoon access, snorkel with reef sharks on a lagoon safari, and explore the island by jet ski or glass-bottom boat. Top off your stay with a romantic candlelit dinner under the stars on a floating platform.
Where to stay:🏝️ Dreaming of waking up in an overwater bungalow with your love? Check out the best Bora Bora hotel deals on Expedia
Avoid:Skipping the water excursions — Bora Bora is a splurge, but trust us, the memories are worth every penny.
💖 Ready to pack your bags? Whether you’re sipping Chianti in Italy or stargazing in New Zealand, these dreamy romantic getaways promise once-in-a-lifetime memories. Let love lead the way — and don’t forget your camera.
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