Romance comes in many forms, but what’s better than exploring magnificent sights with the one you love? We handpicked six destinations that are sure to leave you with memories to cherish forever.
Travel doesn’t always have to be about ticking off sights or getting caught up in the rush of sightseeing. Sometimes, it’s about slowing down, getting lost in the beauty of a place and creating memories with the person beside you. If you’re looking for a getaway that’s less about the itinerary and more about the moments, these six romantic destinations might just be what you’re after. Think less hustle, more hand-holding, sunset gazing and quiet strolls through enchanting streets. Ready to get inspired for your next escape? Let’s dive in.
CHEFCHAOUEN, MOROCCO
Up in the Rif Mountains of northern Morocco, Chefchaouen is a city that seems to exist in a dream. Known as the Blue Pearl, its streets are bathed in every shade of blue imaginable, from cerulean to deep cobalt. It’s a place where time slows down, inviting you to lose yourself in its crooked alleyways and sun-dappled courtyards, perfect for a party of two in love. There’s plenty to do, yet nothing feels rushed. Stroll to the Ras El Maa waterfall, shop for traditional textiles and pottery in the medina, or visit the Kasbah museum for a peek into its past. On market days, the souqs come alive with vibrant produce and lively exchanges – a true glimpse into Moroccan life. But the real joy of Chefchaouen lies in doing nothing much at all, just wandering its dreamy streets, sipping on mint tea or some really fresh orange juice and soaking in the town’s quiet magic. It’s a place to simply be, and that’s its greatest charm.
REPUBLIC OF MALDIVES
How can we talk about romance without mentioning the Maldives? Year after year, this tropical paradise is crowned as the ultimate destination for honeymooners and it’s easy to see why. The Maldives is a luxurious escape where one can relax with every detail designed for indulgence. Picture yourselves in an overwater villa, surrounded by the crystal-clear waters of the Indian Ocean, with nothing but the sound of gentle waves to accompany you. Spend your days snorkelling in coral reefs, participating in water sports, enjoying spa treatments with ocean views or simply lounging on private beaches. As the sun sets, dine under the stars with your feet in the sand, savouring fresh seafood and exotic drinks. The place’s islandic beauty and unparalleled exclusivity make it perfect for an unforgettable romantic getaway.
PROVENCE, FRANCE
If you’re a fan of old-school romance, Provence in southern France is your ultimate dream come true. This region is well known for its lavender fields, sun-drenched vineyards and charming hilltop villages. Imagine driving through winding roads lined with cypress trees, stopping at quaint cafés for a glass of grape and dining under the stars on Provençal delicacies like ratatouille and bouillabaisse. For art and history lovers, the town of Arles gives a chance to walk in the footsteps of Van Gogh, while the medieval village of Gordes entices with its panoramic views. And if you visit in the summer, the fragrant lavender fields of Valensole provide the most romantic backdrop for a stroll or a photoshoot. It’s a destination where every moment feels like it’s been lifted from a classic French love story.
SANTORINI, GREECE
Few places capture the imagination quite like Santorini. This Greek island’s iconic whitewashed buildings, blue-domed churches and proximity to the deep blue Aegean Sea have made it a symbol of romance. Whether you’re watching the famous sunset in Oia or touring the streets of Fira, the opportunities for romance are endless. Take a boat trip around the island, stopping to swim in hidden coves and admire the volcanic landscape. For foodies, the island’s culinary scene is a treat, featuring fresh seafood, Greek grapes and traditional dishes like fava and tomato keftedes, all made out of freshly picked produce and locally cold-pressed olive oil. And for couples who love a touch of adventure, hiking the trail from Fira to Oia presents breathtaking scenes at every turn. Santorini’s beauty is timeless, making it a destination you’ll cherish forever.
THE COTSWOLDS, UK
Straight out of a Jane Austen novel, the Cotswolds is romance incarnate. Its honey-toned cottages and rolling green hills set the stage for leisurely days exploring storybook villages like Bourton-on-the-Water, affectionately called the ‘Venice of the Cotswolds’ for its quaint bridges over tranquil streams, or Stow-on-the-Wold whose antique shops and charming tea rooms are perfect for cosy afternoons. Hidcote Manor’s lush gardens invite long, hand-in-hand strolls, while Blenheim Palace and Sudeley Castle add grandeur to your visit. Stay at one of the many boutique inns with crackling fireplaces and warm, welcoming interiors – ideal for couples seeking quiet moments together. From countryside walks framed by wildflowers to hearty pub meals and riverside picnics, the Cotswolds fulfils your fairytale love story.
TROPEA, ITALY
Clinging to the dramatic cliffs of Calabria, Tropea is the epitome of Italian charm. Recognised as one of I borghi più belli d’Italia, or the most beautiful villages of Italy, it’s a picture-perfect mix of cobblestone streets, pastel-hued buildings and sweeping views of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Also called the Pearl of Calabria, Tropea is an ideal destination for couples who want to combine romance with a touch of history. Explore the iconic Santa Maria dell’Isola, a monastery perched atop a rocky outcrop surrounded by turquoise waters, or stroll hand-in-hand through the old town, sampling local delicacies like ‘nduja, a spicy spreadable salami, while sipping on a crisp local grape. And, of course, no visit is complete without basking on its pristine beaches, where the golden sands meet the azure waves in perfect harmony.