Whether you're drawn to honeymoon resorts or romantic city breaks, the right choice comes down to what you're celebrating, what you want to spend and, ultimately, somewhere that feels right for the two of you.
At a glance:
Sorrento & Amalfi
Best for: Anniversaries & romantic weekends
Flight time: 2.5 to 3 hours to Naples
Santorini
Best for: Honeymoons & proposals
Flight time: 4 hours
Seville
Best for: Budget breaks & weekends
Flight time: 3 hours
Bali
Best for: Honeymoons & proposals
Flight time: 17-19 hours
New York
Best for: First trips & big-city romance
Flight time: 8 hours
Barbados
Best for: Proposals & honeymoons
Flight time: 9 hours
Sorrento & Amalfi
Hiding amid the lemon trees sits one of Italy’s most famous seaside towns, Sorrento. This place is the definition of romantic escapades, from its film-worthy views to its bustling piazzas.
By day, find a pavement cafe in Piazza Tasso and enjoy an aperitif as you people-watch, or take a romantic stroll through Villa Comunale Park. But no Sorrento holidays would be complete without watching the sun dip over the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius - pick a restaurant or bar with a sea-facing terrace for the best views.
If that wasn’t enough romance for one trip, why not see what the rest of the Amalfi Coast has to offer with a boat tour? First stop, Positano! This place is the epitome of idyllic with its cluster of pastel-coloured buildings perched on the cliffside. For another stunning view, head nearby to Ravello and take in the coastline from the Terrace of Infinity at Villa Cimbrome.
Santorini
Looking for a Greek island escape with show-stopping sunsets and plenty of romance? Santorini holidays have the makings of a romantic getaway. Not only is this extraordinary destination a honeymoon favourite, but it’s crammed with amazing wedding locations too. Planning a proposal? You won’t have to look far.
Find hotels carved into the rocks flaunting amazing infinity pools, and restaurants with tables overlooking the caldera (a crater, filled by the sea, formed after a volcanic eruption) - perfect for witnessing Oia’s world-famous sunset. For a closer look at Santorini’s submerged gem, book a caldera cruise.
If you want to relax by the coast, Eros Beach is just the spot! Named after the god of love, this secluded coastline makes for peaceful sunbathing stints surrounded by soaring white cliffs. After a dip in the Aegean, it’s time to experience the sulphuric waters of the island’s hot springs. Said to be great for the skin, this all-natural spa treatment won’t cost a penny.
Seville
The heart and soul of Andalusia, Seville has to be one of Spain’s most romantic cities, with its sunset views over the Guadalquivir River. Everything about this place will get you in the mood for love, whether you’re wandering through its shady plazas, flower-filled alleyways or crossing Triana Bridge.
When you’re not exploring on foot, you could be wining and dining your other half in one of the city’s riverside tapas bars, before hitting its Jewish Quarter for a relaxing dip in an Arabic bath. Cosy up in a horse-drawn carriage and enjoy your very own private tour as you ride past breathtaking buildings like Alcázar and Plaza de España.
And what better way to finish off the perfect trip than an authentic flamenco show at Los Gallos, one of the city's oldest tablaos, tucked into the Barrio Santa Cruz? Synonymous with love and passion, get ready for a spicy Spanish date night.
Bali
With its exotic beauty and an incredible culture, few places can rival the Indonesian island of Bali. Located just 890km south of the equator, this Asian hotspot offers a slice of romantic paradise.
Young lovers hoping to catch a Bali sunrise should make their way up Mount Batur before daybreak for unforgettable views of Lake Batur and Gunung Abang Mountain. To capture memories you can cherish forever, why not book a couple’s photoshoot at the famous ‘Bali Swing’ (a giant jungle swing fastened between two coconut trees). If you don’t like the thought of dangling above the treetops, The Gates Of Heaven at Lempuyang Temple is another photogenic spot.
Hoping to pop the question during your Bali holidays? I know it's cliched, but not a lot will top a private dinner on the beach.
New York
It doesn’t matter which season you visit the Big Apple because this city is special whatever the time of year. Winters are perfect for ice skating dates, Broadway shows and moon-lit river cruises. While the summer is all about taking advantage of the outdoors with park picnics, rooftop cocktails and movies under the stars.
Speaking of movies, you’ll find many real-life film sets on your New York holidays. Stop by Katz’s in the Lower East Side and order a turkey sandwich from the exact deli where that iconic When Harry Met Sally scene was shot.
Once you’re done hunting down filming locations, New York’s shopping scene is second to none. Wander down Fifth Avenue and visit flagship stores like Tiffany & Co and Cartier.
Barbados
Palm-fringed shores, turquoise waters and a splash of Bajan rum – if that doesn’t exude peak tropical romance, then what does?
Crane Beach is the perfect place to start your Barbados holidays. Picture soft, pink-tinged sands stretching towards the clear Caribbean Sea, framed by towering coral cliffs, where you can spend lazy afternoons swimming in the warm waters, soaking up the sunshine or strolling hand in hand along the shoreline.
For a change of scene, make your way to Mount Gay Distillery and get to know the island’s famous rum. Take a tour, discover the story behind its rum-making traditions and enjoy a tasting together along the way.
As the sun goes down, head to Batts Rock Beach for one of the island's best sunset views, or book a table at a beachfront restaurant for a candlelit dinner to remember.
Which type of romantic trip suits you?
Not sure where to take your other half? Let the occasion do the choosing.
• Honeymoon: Santorini or Bali – caldera sunsets, beautiful beaches, private beach dinners and absolutely no wedding planning in sight.
• Anniversary: Sorrento or the Amalfi Coast – scenic drives, long lunches, wine tastings and plenty of reasons to raise a glass together!
• Budget-friendly weekend break: Seville – gorgeous streets, brilliant tapas, lively flamenco nights and balmy evenings, all packed into one very tempting city break.
• Proposal: Barbados or Bali – turquoise seas, tropical scenery, candlelit dinners and a backdrop worthy of a very big question.
• First trip together: New York – big sights, iconic skylines, late nights and rooftop cocktails, with lots of new experiences to share.
These are just a few romantic options to get you started, but there are plenty more to fall for. Take a look at our city breaks for a shorter romantic trip or, if you’re ready to make more of it, explore our honeymoon holidays for a longer escape.
So, where to, lovebirds?
FAQs
What are the best romantic holiday destinations for couples?
Island escapes such as Santorini and Sorrento suit slower, scenic trips, while cities like New York offer romance with more to do. The right choice depends on whether you want to relax together or explore together.
What's the best All Inclusive destination for a romantic holiday?
Long-haul resorts such as Barbados and Bali offer strong All Inclusive holidays for couples wanting everything taken care of, from dining to spa treatments.
Where's good for an anniversary or proposal trip?
Santorini and Sorrento are made for celebrating in style, all caldera sunsets and seaside terraces, while New York brings big-city romance instead.
Is Santorini good for honeymoons?
Yes - it's one of our most-booked honeymoon destinations, with cliffside hotels, caldera views and well-known sunset spots.
What's the best long-haul romantic destination?
Bali and Barbados both offer long-haul romance with distinct settings - Bali for its temples and rice terraces, Barbados for beach-resort relaxation.
About the author
Adele has worked in travel for a number of years now, which has taken her to some amazing places. When she’s not at home cuddling her dog, she loves to explore new places. From Mexico to Croatia and Iceland, she has some great insider tips.