Blog

Welcome to our Valentine's travel addition - a list of the most romantic places to travel in the world!

While most people think of Paris or the Amalfi Coast for the most romantic destionations, we've found some new ones that we fell in love with while traveling as a couple.

From unique glamping spots to charming villages, these destinations are perfect for couples, and make excellent spots for a romantic getaway. Let's dive right in!

The Most Romantic Places to Travel in the World in Europe

Out of all regions of the world, Europe definitely is home to the most romantic places to travel in the world. Full of charming old villages, beautiful views, and iconic monuments, it's impossible not to enjoy a bit of romance in some of these cities.

1. Verona, Italy

Italy is definitely one of the most romantic places to travel in the world. But while most flock to Venice, Rome, and Milan, we have some other recommendations for the couples out there.

Not only is Verona easily accessible from Venice or Milan, but it is the charming destination we've all been waiting for. It's actually known for being the home to the story of Romeo and Juliet, and you can even visit Juliet's balcony!

If that doesn't sell you enough on the idea, head to Castel San Peitro for sunset, where you can have the most romantic view.

2. Ios, Greece

Move over Santorini and Mykonos! While these stunning islands typically steal the spotlight, the island of Milos is the up and coming island destination for romance.

Ios is quieter than the other famous islands, it has adorable villages, and also is home to one of the most romantic hotels in the world.

Soak in a hot tub, lay in a swinging bed, and sip champagne at one of the most romantic hotels in the world - Calilo in Ios.

3. Ayia Napa, Cyprus

When it comes to romantic places to travel in the world, we could easily choose the entire island of Cyprus. Half Greek and half Turkish, this island is full of turquoise waters, charming villages, and the msot delicious food.

But there is a particular area of Cyprus that we really loved, which is Ayia Napa. It's home to the best beaches, and has pleny of opportunities for couples to enjoy some fun in the sun.

Just 45 minutes outside of Ayia Napa, we stayed at an incredibly romantic hotel called Athenio. It's family run, has delicous food, and is beautifully lit at night for a truly romantic evening.

4. Etretat, France

Move over Paris, we found one of the most romantic places in the world, and it's just a few hours west of France's capital.

Etretat is a small coastal town with beautiful gardens, giant cliffs, and a handful of beaches to explore. But what makes it super romantic are the views at sunset from the top of the cliffs.

There is even a secret cave that has a window with views of the beach down below. Head there for sunset and grab a bottle of wine and some cheese for a truly romantic evening with your significant other.

5. Dordogne, France

If you're looking to roam fairytale villages and sip on some good wine, then Dordogne is the place for you.

With it's charming waterfront villages, old architecture, and beautiful gardens, Dordogne may just be the most romantic area of France, and definitely one of the most romantic places to travel in the world.

We have a full guide for visiting the region of Dordogne in France, so make sure to subscribe to our newsletter for all of the updates!

6. La Gomera, the Canary Islands

The Canary Islands are some of the most beautiful and diverse islands in the world! While we love all of them, we particularly choose La Gomera as one of the most romantic places to travel in the world because of its special unique experiences.

We traveled the island by van, and every morning the sunrises were simply magical, with incredible views of El Teide Volcano in Tenerife. We cozied up in the van at night, but were ready to hit the beaches during the day.

THe best part though? There is an exclusive cave inside a resort that you can rent out for lunch or dinner. Your food and drinks are delivered via a cable, so you can enjoy a romantic dinner together. There is even a bed included! Talk about adding a bit of spice to your trip.

7. Lake Bled, Slovenia

Lake Bled truly feels like your stepping into a fairytale, and is one of the most romantic places to travel in the world for the nature lovers out there.

Enjoy the sunrise together overlooking the lake from the incredible Mala Osojnica, rent a bow together, or stay at one of the cozy glamping spots surrounding the lake.

8. The Dolomites, Italy

The Dolomites is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Italy, and is deifinitely one of the most romantic places to travel in the world.

The landscapes are simply stunning, and if you can do the early wake up call, then you'll be able to experience the beauty all by yourselves.

The Dolomites are also home to some of the most romantic hotels in the world, making them an even more enticing destination for a romantic escape. Some of the most impressive ones include Chalet al Foss, Arun Private Spa Villas, Gloriette Guest House, Hubertus, and Naturhotel Leitlho.

9. Lapland, Finland

Lapland may just be the most magical winter wonderland in the world. Imagine blankets of snowier massive forests, reindeer or husky sledding, and the northern lights.

In Lapland you can stay cozy in incredible glass igloos to watch the sky dance with colors, warm up in the saunas, soak in hot tubs, and even visit Santa Clause's village! It truly is one of the most romantic places to travel in the world, and extra magical in the winter time.

10. Lofoten Islands

The Lofoten Islands are some of the most grorgeous islands on Earth, and for us was one of the most romantic destinations in the world. 

Visit in the summer and you'll be able to experience 24 hours of sunlight, charming fishing villages, and some of the most gorgeous hikes we have ever experienced, which are particularly romantic to spend sunset to sunrise (it never gets dark).

Visit in the winter time, and you'll have an incredible shot at seeing the northern lights. Cozy up in a cute red cabin, sip hot chocolate, and enjoy the sky dancing with colors.

11. Tbilisi, Georgia

Tbilisi just may be one of the most underrated capitals in Europe, and it's perfect for a romantic getaway.

Georgia has amazing comfort food and wine, affordable glamping experiences, and quirky architecture. But what we particularly love about Tbilisi is the area of thermal baths right in the city center. 

We spent our anniversary in Tbilisi, and Fede took me to the most famous Spa in town (Orbeliani). There is a special private room that they set up with music, massage beds, and a pool to enjoy, making it a great place for a special romantic occasion.

The Most Romantic Places to Travel in the World: North America

While we personally think Europe is full of many more romantic places to travel in the world, the Americas also have some notable places we believe are perfect for a quick romantic getaway.

12. St Augustine, Florida

So many people flock to Florida for romantic getaways, but this town is so much more than just a quick beach weekend (although it does have a beach too!). 

St Augustine is the oldest registered city in the entire country, and is also one of the most charming. Not only that, but from mid November until January the historic town has "night of lights", when the entire city is draped with lights, making it even more magical for couples to enjoy.

For a super romantic local stay, we recommend Lions and Lanterns, which is run by a local Josie who creates incredibly stunning rooms to rent her guests.

13. Guanajuato, Mexico

Guanajuato may just be one of the most underrated destination in Mexico. While most flock to the beaches of Mexico, this city boasts vibrant colors, and is made of over 1,000 alleys!

Join a callejoneada (a musical walking tour), roam the quaint streets, or even stay in a castle for the night! Like Verona, Guanajuato also features a balcony with a tragic love story, just like Romeo and Juliet.

Guanajuato is the enchanting European city of Mexico, and definitely was one of the most romantic places in the world we've traveled to.

14. San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

Just an hour and a half away from Guanajuato is another charming city in Mexico that is super romantic.

San Miguel de Allende is known for its large pink Disney-looking cathedral, its stunning architecture, and a really romantic spa in town.

For a bonus, you can also stay in a hotel filled with suns! It's honestly one of the cutest hotels we came across in Mexico.

15. Parc Omega, Canada

Just 90 minutes outside Montreal is one of the most unique accommodation experiences, where you can sleep amongst the wolves!

In a beautiful glass cabin you can cozy up while experiencing these furry friends just outside your door. Th epark itself has a lot to offer, and staying here (especially in the winter) makes it one of the most romantic places to travel in the world.

The Most Romantic Places to Travel in the Caribbean

The Caribbean is the pretty typical romantic getaway destination. It's hot, the beaches are beautiful, and time goes a bit slower. But we're just going to share a couple of our favorites.

16. St Maarten

We may be a bit biased on this one, because it's one of the first places we explored together while working on a cruise ship.

St Maarten is a pretty special island though, as it belongs to two countries, and has a variety to offer. You can rent an ATV together to explore the small hidden beaches, watch the planes fly over at Maho Beach, or take a romantic boat ride around the prisitine Caribbean waters.

St Maarten has a lot to offer! Whether you're a couple that wants adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, you can find this island to be one of the most romantic places to travel in the world.

17. St John

As an American, visiting the US Virgin Islands is very convenient and frills-free! While most flock to St Thomas, we love St John more when it comes to romantic places to travel in the world.

There are far less tourists, the beaches are pristine, and it's great for a relaxing getaway with your other half.

The Most Romantic Places to Travel in the World: Central America

Costa Rica is the perfect area to visit for the adventure couples out there! With wild landscapes and a variety of activities, it's a great place to get away for those that want a bit more than just a romantic getaway. Here are a couple of our personal favorites.

18. La Ruta de las Flores El Salvador

El Salvador is definitely one of the most underrated destinations in Central America, and has so many great experiences for couples!

La Ruta de las Flores is a region of 5 towns north of the capital where you can have delicious coffee, indulge in a lot of local cuisine, shop at craft markets, and go waterfall chasing. But the real reason we chose this area for one of the most romantic places to travel in the world? It's because of the nearby hot spring waterfall.

Soak in steamy waters with your partner and watch the sunset together with this uniuque location in El Salvador. Looking for more romantic spots? Relax at the resort in Mizata, or explore the black sand beach with cliffs surrounding it in Shalpa.

19. La Fortuna, Costa Rica

A land of waterfalls and volcanoes await in the jungles of Costa Rica, making La Fortuna one of the most romantic places to travel in the world.

La Fortuna has a number of luxury thermal spas to stay at for couples, two of the to ones which are Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa and Baldi Hot Springs Hotel & Spa.

20. San Blas Islands, Panama

This archipelago of 365 islands is pure paradise, and the perfect getaway for those that want something truly unique.

Some of the islands can be walked across in minutes, and you can even swim from one to another! With a little over 300 of them being uninhabited, you have a great chance of being able to get one to yourselves! Talk about tropical romance.

The Most Romantic Places to Travel in the World: South America

South America is full of adventure, and is one of the places we decided to do our first trips together! That being said,it really is an area for those that are a bit more comfortable with traveling, and better for couples that have been together for a bit. Here are some of the most romantic places to travel in South America.

21. Ollantaytambo, Peru

Want to know one of the coolest and romantic hotels in the world? Imagine yourself in a glass capsule hanging off of a cliffside in Peru.

This is perfectfor couples wanting to experience something really special together, but also who crave a bit of adventure.

Sky Lodge Adventure Suites are located in the Ollantaytambo Valley, and there are also transfers available from the city of Cusco.

22. Jericoacoara, Brazil

Looking for a little slice of paradise in Brazil? Well, Jericoacoara is an adorable town tucked away between sand dunes. It's full of gorgeous lagoons and beautifully lit restaurants.

Chill at the beach or set off on a 4x4 adventure with your loved one for the perfect mix of fun and relaxation.

23. Baños de Agua Santa, Ecuador

Here's another waterfall and hot spring haven for you to enjoy as a couple. Baños is one of the most romantic places in Ecuador, and a personal favorite of ours for those that want both adventure and relaxation.

The Most Romantic Places to Travel in the World: Africa

It's time to head to an even wilder area to the world - Africa! While it can be chaotic and full of culture shock, this continent offers rich experiences for those comfortable with getting a little out of their comfort zone. Here are a few of the most romantic places to travel in the world around Africa.

24. Chefchaouen, Morocco

Also known as the Blue Pearl, Chefchaeouen is definitely the most enchanting town in Morocco. The streets are covered from top to bottom in blue, with beautiful decorations, and the cutest little shops. 

Catch the sunset from a rooftop bar enjoying views of Chefchaouen, head out to the nearby Akchour waterfalls for a bit of adventure.

We'll be having group trips offered to Morocco including Chefchaoeun soon, so subscribe to our newsletter for the updates!

25. Merzouga, Morocco

Another place we found incredibly romantic in Morocco was the Sahara Desert. 

Head to Merzouga, and you'll find a variety of luxury camps to snuggle up at while surrounded by beautiful sand dunes. Ride camels at sunset, take a dip in one of the pools, and experience one of the most romantic places to travel in the world.

26. La Digue, Seychelles

Looking for some of the most pristine beaches in the world? Well, La Digue, Seychelles is straight out of a post card with it's crystal clear waters, fine sands, and prominent boulders scattered around it.

This is still a destination that isn't crazy crowded, making it the perfect romantic getaway for those wanting to go a bit off the beaten path.

27. Mauritius

Located off the east coast of Africa, Mauritius is one of those places that has been high on our bucket list for a long time! It has stunning beaches, paradise resorts, swimming with wild dolphins, and its iconic "underwater waterfall" that you can witness by helicopter.

It truly is one of the most romantic places to travel in the world, and one we hope to share more info about soon!

The Most Romantic Places to Travel in the World: The Middle East

When people imagine romantic places to travel in the world, they typically don't think of the Middle East as being a prime destination. However, we've visited quite a few places that we recommend for couples! Here are a few of our top choices.

28. Wadi Rum, Jordan

Located in the south of Jordan, this desert is full of otherworldly landscapes, and also some of the most romantic glamping sites in the world.

Watch the sunrise on the dunes, sip tea with the locals, ride camels at sunset, and watch the sky fill with stars at night. Wadi Rum is a truly magical place, and one we'll always cherish.

We particularly recommend staying in one of the domes at Memories Aicha Luxury Camp, as this is one of the most beautiful glamping sites we have ever seen!

29. Al Ain, UAE

While most people flock to Dubai or Abu Dhabi, we found the most romantic place in the UAE to be Al Ain. 

Al Ain is full of charming forts, museums, and local desert town vibes. But what truly makes Al Ain romantic is the awesome desert resort we stayed at, Telal Resort, which has an oasis next to it, a spa, and a pool that lit up beautifully at night.

30. Socotra, Yemen

Socotra may just be one of the most magical places on Earth! Imagine Caribbean style beaches to yourselves, refreshing canyons to swim in, and laying under a sky full of stars at night.

We'll be honest though - this is no beginner's trip! But if you're comfortable with your partner, and are looking for a transformative experience together, then Socotra is certainly the island you're looking for.

We organize tours to Socotra (both group and private) on offthebeatentrips.com and are happy to help you visit one of the most romantic places to travel in the world.

The Most Romantic Places to Travel in the World: Asia

Asia is an area of the globe that we still have so much to explore! However, we have been to a few good ones to share with you, that should definitely all be on any couple's bucket list.

31. Cappadocia, Turkey

Cappadocia may just be one of the most romantic places to travel in the world, and is a true fairytale! I actually went when I was single, and loved it so much that I vowed it would be the place i get married one day.

The enchanting city is built into the captivating rock formations that make Cappadocia unique. It's full of cave hotels, and beautiful rooftops to witness the daily parade of hot air balloons dancing across the sky.

If you're looking for a romantic getaway that's not too far from Europe, but just exotic enough, then make sure to check out Cappadocia, Turkey.

32. Bali, Indonesia

I've been a bit hesitant to add Bali to this list, as I know it is not a hotspot for digital nomads and expats. It's definitely changed drastically since the last time I went (2017), but nevertheless has some stunning natural landscapes.

Bali has some of the most breathtaking waterfalls in the world, beautiful beaches, and definitely the best villas you could ever imagine. It's budget friendly, tropical, and has anything a couple could ask for a romantic getaway.

33. The Maldives

When it comes to the most romantic places to travel in the world, this is ertaily at the top of the list.

Home to the most stunning resorts and overwater bungalows, it's no wonder the Maldives have become such a popular honeymoon destination.

Most islands are pretty much dedicated to a single resort, so this is truly for those that want to relax. But if you want a bit more adventure, you can head to some of the local islands, which offer plenty of fun activities.

34. Singapore

Singapore is one of the most impressive cities in all of Asia, and it truly does not fail to dissapoint when it comes to romance.

Not only is a great to walk around, strolling, and enjoying the architecture, but the Gardens by the Bay are one of the most romantic places ever. The artifiicial trees are beautifully lit at night, and look straight out of a fairytale. 

I ended up exploring this area a bit by myself while my ex decided not to join - so I am obviously super excited to save this special place for a trip together with Fede in the future.

The Most Romantic Places to Travel in the World: The Pacific

The Pacific is truly one of the most stunning areas of the world, scattered with picturesque islands. However, we haven't personally been to a ton of places YET, and don't want to be promoting a ton of places we really don't know about. However, here are two places that have been recommended by a ton of our friends.

35. Bora Bora, French Polynesia

Bora Bora is the most iconic honeymoon spot, so we really couldn't skip it for our list of romantic places to visit in the world! It's got stunning mountains and is surrounded by crystal clear waters and fine white sands. If you have the budget for it, it's also the best place for the overwater bungalows!

36. Fiji

If you're looking for more incredible hotels and gorgeous beaches, but more variety, then Fiji needs to be on your couple's bucket list.

Swim with whale sharks, go on a sunset catamaran ride, and go snorkeling in some of the most beautiful waters in the world. We know Fiji surely won't disappoint!

We hope we've inspired you with these romantic places to travel around the world! Let us know in the comments which one you're looking forward to the most.

Want help picking a place right for you, or booking your trip? With Scratch Your Mapa Travel Planning you can get a customized itinerary, and save money and time for your trip! Just email us to get your free consultation today.

Here are some other articles you'll love: