Skip to main content

The best honeymoon destinations: Our favorite locales

Plan a romantic honeymoon to these locales

blue ocean next to rock formations
Pixabay / Pexels

With so many incredible destinations to choose from, planning your perfect honeymoon is an adventure in itself! Dreaming of a romantic beach honeymoon, the chance to explore a new city, and seeing what other cultures have to offer? Here’s a guide to some of the best honeymoon spots around the world, each offering unforgettable moments for you and your partner.

1. Maldives

aerial photography of bungalows in water
Asad Photo Maldives / Pexels

Why go: The Maldives is the ultimate spot for luxury and romance, perfect for a honeymoon. Picture waking up in an overwater bungalow, surrounded by clear blue waters and beautiful beaches. It’s a dream destination for couples looking to relax and enjoy each other’s company. Whether you’re snorkeling in the colorful reefs, having a private beach dinner, or watching the stunning sunsets, the Maldives offers an unforgettable experience for newlyweds.

Best time to visit: December-April

Highlights:

  • Stay in an overwater villa with direct access to the water.
  • Enjoy a private dinner on a secluded beach.
  • Go snorkeling or scuba diving in the coral reefs.

2. Santorini, Greece

white buildings with blue domed roofs
jimmy teoh / Pexels

Why go: Santorini is famous for its breathtaking sunsets, white-washed buildings, and azure domes. It’s the perfect place for couples who want a romantic and picturesque setting. Watching the sunset in Santorini is an experience you’ll never forget.

Best time to visit: April-June and September-October

Highlights:

  • Watch the sunset from Oia.
  • Explore Fira and Imerovigli.
  • Take a boat tour around the caldera.

3. Kyoto, Japan

pathway with red walls
D J / Pexels

Why go: Kyoto offers a blend of traditional Japanese culture, stunning temples, and beautiful gardens, making it an ideal destination for couples interested in history and tranquility.

Best time to visit: March-May and September-November

Highlights:

  • Visit the Fushimi Inari Shrine with its thousands of torii gates.
  • Stroll through the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.
  • Experience a traditional tea ceremony.

4. Venice, Italy

man in a gondola
hitesh choudhary / Pexels

Why go: Venice is all about romance with its winding canals, historic architecture, and gondola rides. Strolling through the narrow streets, visiting St. Mark’s Basilica, and exploring the vibrant Rialto Market are just a few of the beautiful experiences Venice offers. It’s a city where every corner feels like a scene from a love story.

Best time to visit: April-June and September-October

Highlights:

  • Take a gondola ride through the canals.
  • Visit St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace.
  • Explore the Rialto Market.

5. Bora Bora, French Polynesia

brown wooden dock between houses in water
Robert Edward Bradley / Unsplash

Why go: Bora Bora is often called the most beautiful island in the world, and it’s easy to see why. With its turquoise lagoon and luxurious resorts, it’s perfect for a romantic getaway. You can stay in an overwater bungalow, snorkel in the coral gardens, and enjoy a private dinner on a secluded islet. 

Best time to visit: April-October

Highlights:

  • Stay in an overwater bungalow.
  • Snorkel in the coral gardens.
  • Enjoy a romantic dinner on a private motu (islet).

6. Paris, France

Eiffel tower during day
Pixabay / Pexels

Why go: Paris is the ultimate city of romance. You can visit the Eiffel Tower, take a stroll along the Seine, and enjoy a gourmet dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant. Paris is a timeless destination for honeymooners.

Best time to visit: June-August and September-October

Highlights:

  • Visit the Eiffel Tower and have a picnic at Champ de Mars.
  • Take a stroll along the Seine.
  • Indulge in a dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant.

7. Bali, Indonesia

canoe on body of water
Oleksandr P / Pexels

Why go: Bali’s rich culture and natural beauty make it a unique and memorable destination. Explore the rice terraces in Ubud, relax on the beaches of Seminyak and Nusa Dua, and indulge in a traditional Balinese spa treatment. 

Best time to visit: April-October

Highlights:

  • Explore the rice terraces in Ubud.
  • Relax on the beaches of Seminyak and Nusa Dua.
  • Experience a traditional Balinese spa treatment.

8. Amalfi Coast, Italy

colorful buildings on a hill
Michael Block / Pexels

Why go: The Amalfi Coast is renowned for its dramatic cliffs, picturesque towns, and stunning views. It’s perfect for couples who love scenic drives and exploring charming coastal villages. Visit Positano, take a boat trip to Capri, and enjoy the breathtaking views from Amalfi Drive. The Amalfi Coast is a beautiful and romantic choice.

Best time to visit: May or September

Highlights:

  • Drive along the scenic Amalfi Drive.
  • Visit the town of Positano.
  • Take a boat trip to Capri.

9. Seychelles

view of a beach during the day
Adrien Daurenjou / Pexels

Why go: Seychelles is perfect for couples looking for privacy and natural beauty. Relax on Anse Source d’Argent beach, snorkel or dive in the clear waters, and explore the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve. 

Best time to visit: April-May and October-November

Highlights:

  • Relax on Anse Source d’Argent beach.
  • Snorkel or dive in the clear waters.
  • Explore the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve.

10. Queenstown, New Zealand

houses near body of water
Michael Amadeus / Unsplash

Why go: Queenstown is perfect for adventurous couples looking for excitement and breathtaking scenery. Set against stunning landscapes, it offers thrilling activities like bungee jumping off Kawarau Bridge and scenic flights over Milford Sound. You can also enjoy wine tasting in the nearby vineyards. 

Best time to visit: December-February

Highlights:

  • Bungee jump off Kawarau Bridge.
  • Go wine tasting in the nearby vineyards.
  • Take a scenic flight over Milford Sound.

FAQs

drone shot of beach shore
Dimitri Dim / Pexels

What should you consider when choosing a honeymoon destination?

Consider your interests (e.g., adventure, relaxation, culture), budget, time of year, and travel restrictions.

How far in advance should you book your honeymoon?

It’s best to book at least six months in advance, especially for popular destinations.

What are some travel tips for honeymooners?

Ensure you have travel insurance, pack light, and plan a mix of activities and relaxation.

Kelly Baker
Kelly is a writer who loves good books, baking homemade bread, playing the piano, and spending time with her family.
New Zealand almost triples fees for international tourists
International Tourists set to pay more when visiting New Zealand
Lake Tekapo, New Zealand

Today, the New Zealand government announced a significant fee increase for international tourists. Previously, visitors paid NZ$35 (about $22) International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL). Beginning Oct. 1, the cost climbs to NZ$100 (about $62). While the tourism industry criticized the move, the government said it was necessary.
Reasons for the IVL cost increase
White's Beach, New Zealand Kyle Myburgh via Unsplash

New Zealand has open country, coastlines, mountains, and lakes. But with that comes visitors, who put a strain on infrastructure and the natural environment. According to New Zealand’s Offices of the Minister of Conservation and Minister for Tourism and Hospitality, those are the reasons cited for the price change. Even so, tourism trade groups aren’t pleased, saying the new fee will limit international tourists.

Read more
These are the best California road trip itineraries: Plan your route
open field with California mountains in the background

California can feel more like a country than a state when traversed by car, featuring a diversity of perfect California beach destinations, quirky roadside attractions, and iconic cities dotting the way. There are endless paths that you can take on a California road trip, but these five routes should be at the top of your list the next time you're cruising through the Golden State.

1. The Pacific Coastal Highway

Read more
Ikon Pass adds a new Tahoe resort for winter 24/25
Ikon Pass debits at Sierra-at-Tahoe for winter 24/25
Sierra-at-Tahoe and Ikon Pass

The Ikon Pass provides access to big mountain playgrounds around the globe. From Palisades Tahoe to Niseko United, Japan, passholders can explore world’s finest terrain, and enjoy exclusive perks. That gets even better for winter 24/25, with Sierra-at-Tahoe joining the list. 
Sierra-at-Tahoe: Authentic skiing and riding by the lake

With small resort charm, challenging terrain, and abundant snowfall, Sierra-at-Tahoe is the perfect place for pure skiing and riding. A 2,212 vertical rise, 2,000 acres of terrain, and 400+ inches of average snowfall of snow give it big mountain cred. Cornices, cliffs, terrain parks, and a halfpipe challenge seasoned snow athletes. Backcountry gates let skiers and riders explore Tahoe’s outer limits. With Ikon Pass access this winter, visiting this Tahoe gem is easier than ever.

Read more