A honeymoon is often a once-in-a-lifetime trip for newlyweds to celebrate the next chapter of their lives together. Choosing your honeymoon destination is one of the most exciting parts about getting married and can require careful, thoughtful planning to make sure it's extra special. Whether it's a luxury island escape, safari retreat or city adventure, here we've ranked the best destinations around the world for the perfect post-wedding getaway.
History buffs are bound to enjoy a honeymoon in Edinburgh, Scotland’s stunning capital city. Couples can enjoy trailing through the maze of cobbled streets and incredible architecture of Edinburgh’s Old Town, easily one of the city’s most romantic spots, or taking in the incredible views from Edinburgh Castle. For those wanting to escape the crowds, Arthur’s Seat, a rugged volcanic outcrop on the outskirts of the city, offers dramatic views across the city and beyond.
With its old-world architecture, boutique shopping, and renowned culinary scene, Montreal is Canada's arts and cultural capital. Rising from triple peaks in the heart of downtown, the city's 400+-year-old heritage is everywhere you look, from the pretty cobbled streets and squares to the imposing Notre Dame Basilica. Known as one of the largest French-speaking cities in the world, Montreal's European influence is clear, couples can spend a lazy afternoon exploring stylish shops and restaurants or enjoy a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride through the streets.
A city filled with splendour, the elegance of Jaipur is enough to entice any newly married couple. Also known as the ‘Land of the Kings’, the capital of India’s Rajasthan state was painted its signature pink shade during the 19th century to welcome the Prince of Wales to the city. With royalty at its core, Jaipur is renowned for its breathtaking buildings like the opulent Amer Fort which beautifully glistens in the sun. The city's lavish hotels treat guests like kings and queens with royal suites, premier spa facilities and fine dining.
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Paris may be the main city that springs to mind when thinking of France’s most romantic destination, but Nice, the cultural capital of the French Riviera, should not be overlooked. A vibrant mix of beautiful beaches, shimmering blue waters, stunning buildings and elegant charm, the city has a reputation for glitz and glamour, making it ideal for a lavish romantic escape. Whether it's soaking up some rays on the sandy shoreline, exploring the historic city streets or enjoying the beauty of the French Riviera, Nice has a little bit of everything.
The smallest of the main US Virgin Islands, St. John has unspoilt beauty unlike anywhere else in the Caribbean. With miles of lush forests, pristine beaches, historic ruins and coral reefs teeming with marine life, the island is perfect for couples seeking a tranquil retreat in nature away from the stresses of life. St. John has no shortage of romantic resorts, villas or hotels that provide ample space to rest, relax and soak up the idyllic atmosphere.
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If getting lost in markets, enjoying stunning rooftop restaurants and discovering ancient architecture sounds like your kind of holiday, then a honeymoon in Marrakech may be right up your souk. With its North African location, the city experiences relatively warm and sunny weather all year long. Jemaa el-Fna Square is the vibrant hub of the city, filled with colourful market vendors, dancers and a plethora of national and international cuisine. Marrakech is also a global wellness destination, with traditional hammams and spas offering some of the best treatments in the world, perfect for a honeymoon.
The epitome of beautiful wine country scenery, the miles upon miles of vineyards of California’s Napa Valley are truly enchanting. Regarded as one of America’s premier food and wellness destinations, newlywed wine connoisseurs will feel right at home in one of the region's many wineries and vineyards, some offering idyllic accommodation alongside wine tastings and tours. The valley has plenty of outdoor activities too including horseback riding and cycling alongside relaxing spas and a vibrant bar scene.
A stunning landscape of mystical lakes, rugged mountains, adorable villages and open countryside that inspired many of the great Romantic poets, it'll be hard not to feel loved up exploring England's largest National Park. From lavish Victorian manors and hotels to historic B&Bs and inns, the park has a glorious selection of accommodation for a romantic getaway. Stargazing, horse riding, fell walking and spa retreats are among the most popular activities on offer here.
If you prefer the buzz of a city and having world-class attractions on your doorstep, New York may the perfect honeymoon spot for you. The Big Apple is jam-packed with exciting sights, activities and incredible cuisine so you certainly won't get bored. If you want to be in the heart of the action, midtown Manhattan is the place to be, home to the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Empire State Building and Times Square where you can sample the best of the city’s famous cultural scene. Manhattan is also where you'll find romantic boutique hotels offering breathtaking views.
Portugal's dreamy southern coastline is dotted with lovely sandy beaches, picture-perfect fishing towns and a gorgeous climate which combined make it an ideal honeymoon destination. The Algarve is pretty varied for activities too – couples can soak up the sun on the sandy shoreline, have a splash in a water park, take in the colourful nightlife or get lost in one of the many historic towns, all set against a beautiful mountain backdrop.
A beautiful blend of activities, nature, warm weather, culinary delights and incredible accommodation, Bali is often ranked among the top travel destinations in the world. The Indonesian island has plenty to offer newlyweds, from its intriguing architecture and rich culture to its natural wonders and wellness spots. Bali’s sun-kissed sandy shores are perfect for a sunset stroll while accommodation ranges from luxury resorts with private pools to villas hidden within tropical jungles for a little more privacy.
Located in central Italy, with its dreamy landscapes, historic cities, renowned art and world-class wine, Tuscany is bound to impress. Known as the birthplace of the Renaissance, traces of the region’s rich history can be found everywhere, from the galleries of Florence to the churches of Lucca. The Tuscan countryside is especially magical, with its rolling hills, valleys, mountains and cypress trees. The landscape is devoted to olive oil and wine, offering some of the best in Italy and the world, perfect for a romantic weekend wine-tasting in an unparalleled setting.
Regarded as Mexico’s premier tourist destination, Los Cabos is home to some of the world’s most luxurious hotels, award-winning restaurants and a beautiful coastline. The resort city occupies a scenic spot on the southern tip of Mexico’s Baja California peninsula surrounded by the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez. Honeymooners will fall in love with the sprawling desert landscape and sparkling waters, making Los Cabos difficult to leave.
A city renowned for its intimate restaurants, peaceful temples and gorgeous gardens, what could be more romantic than a honeymoon in Kyoto. The scenic city offers a plethora of attractions, from tranquil Zen gardens and bamboo forests perfect for a stroll to exploring atmospheric temples and the traditional restaurants and shops of Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka. The best time to visit Kyoto is in spring when the former capital is carpeted with its famous cherry blossom trees (sakura) and is a dreamy sight.
With luxury hotels and stunning scenery at every turn, Lake Como has firmly cemented itself as a prime destination for newlyweds. Framed against gorgeous pine-studded mountains overlooking beautiful blue waters, it's easy to see why the Italian lake region is a favourite honeymoon spot among celebrities. With its sheer natural beauty, quaint villages and calm atmosphere, Lake Como provides the perfect setting for a romantic escape.
Natural beauty, luxury resorts and laid-back charm are what you’ll come across in Saint Lucia, arguably the most romantic island in the Caribbean. Jagged jungle-clad volcanic peaks rise high above the small island, which is framed by powder white sand and warm blue waters, perfect for snorkelling or swimming. Accommodation here spans everything from boutique beach hotels and rustic rainforest retreats to some of the most prestigious resorts in the island chain. With romantic charm everywhere you look, Saint Lucia also experiences some of the best sunsets in the world.
Hidden beaches and coves, sunset boat trips and year-round sunshine are just a few of the reasons why Aruba offers the ideal romantic getaway for newly-married couples. Lying just off the coast of Venezuela, the island may be small but is packed with activities. Notable attractions include plenty of water sports, candlelit dining on the beach, horseback riding through the countryside and couples massages at one of the luxury spas. Hotels, resorts and villas across the island offer all-inclusive honeymoon packages, which include Champagne, massages, dinners and more.
The Masai Mara National Reserve in southwest Kenya may not be your typical honeymoon destination, but with its abundance of incredible wildlife, breathtaking vistas and kaleidoscope of wild and rugged landscapes, it really should be. Covering a staggering 583 square miles (1,510sq km), the Masai Mara offers everything from tropical beaches to luxury lodges and is one of the most incredible safari honeymoon destinations in Africa. Newlyweds can enjoy a plethora of activities including hot air balloon rides, horse riding and safari game drives.
With its striking white buildings and brilliant blue waters, it's no surprise that Santorini is often hailed as one of the most picturesque islands in the world. Its beautiful views, architectural gems of times gone by and romantic vibes all combine to make the Greek island a top choice among newlyweds. Santorini is decorated with gorgeous villas and hotels featuring private infinity pools offering breathtaking seascapes and spectacular sunsets unlike anywhere else.
Also known as “The Valley Isle”, Maui is the second largest of Hawaii’s islands. From its world-famous beaches and coastline to the enchanting Iao Valley and spectacular volcanoes, Maui is certainly not short on natural beauty. Hailed for its stunning sunsets and sunrises over the water, which paint the sky in orange, pink and red hues, the island is as romantic as it gets. Whale-watching, snorkelling, hiking and scenic drives are just a few of the activities on offer here, while accommodation ranges from romantic resorts to secluded rainforest villas.
Fringed by beautiful coral reefs and soda white sand lapped by crystal blue waters, there are a multitude of reasons why Mauritius is one of the top honeymoon destinations in the world. Located around 1,200 miles (1,921km) off the coast of southeast Africa, the little slice of paradise is hemmed by roughly 205 miles (330km) of coastline while its beautiful waters are home to colourful marine life, making it the perfect island escape. Beyond its looks, Mauritius is full of culture, art, music and nature so there's plenty to keep you entertained.
With its stunning architecture, intimate restaurants and romantic atmosphere, it’s easy to see why Paris is known as the 'City of Love'. Popularised by artists from the Romantic period, Paris has been the go-to destination for romance for decades. The city’s wide picturesque streets make it perfect for strolling hand in hand with your partner, while its art galleries and restaurants are some of the best in the world, adding to its charm.
Stretching 30 miles (50km) along the southern side of Italy’s Sorrentine Peninsula, the UNESCO-listed Amalfi Coast is renowned for being one of the most beautiful places in the country – and the world. Couples will struggle not to fall in love with its colourful hilltop towns, mountain scenery and charming beaches. Home to some of the finest hotels and restaurants in Italy, newlyweds will be spoilt for choice when it comes to places to stay; from luxury resorts overlooking the water to secluded boutique hotels, this region has it all. An onslaught of scenic trails and gorgeous drives offer an escape from the crowds and into the tranquil mountains and forests nearby.
With its jagged peaks soaring into the sky surrounded by eye-popping blue waters and golden sand, this volcanic island is often regarded as one of the most beautiful places in the world. Part of the Society Islands of French Polynesia, the unspoilt beauty of Bora Bora has to be seen to be believed. Temperatures are typically around 26°C (80°F) and above most of the year, and its tranquil tropical location makes it the perfect spot for honeymooners. The paradise island is best known for its luxury bungalows, which loom over the lagoon, offering breathtaking views and easy access to the water.
Lying off the coast of East Africa, the allure of Seychelles and why it's snagged the top spot lies in its isolated location. With plenty of sunshine and consistently warm weather, the secluded archipelago is an all-year-round honeymoon destination. Framing beautiful blue waters, the magnificent beaches are dotted with historic granite boulders and framed by swaying palm trees, depicting a postcard. There’s an air of exclusivity in the resorts and hotels here, with opportunities to swim with turtles, go snorkelling or rent a private yacht for the day.