A honeymoon is one of the most significant milestone trips. When else are you encouraged to splurge on a far-flung adventure simply to enjoy the company of your new spouse? It’s a rare chance to choose a dream destination and plan a vacation you’ll cherish for anniversaries to come.
The type of honeymoon you choose depends entirely on your priorities. If your ideal escape involves lounging by the water with no commitments, a warm resort on Mexico’s coast will set a romantic tone. If you’re an active couple wanting to disconnect after months of stressful wedding planning, an escape to New Zealand or the Canadian wilderness will satisfy your wanderlust. For newlyweds seeking something unexpected, consider a snow-capped retreat in the Swiss Alps instead of a standard warm-weather trip. From African safaris to island hopping in Greece or sipping spritzes on the Amalfi Coast, your honeymoon is the time to do it right. Here are a few of the best locations to inspire you.
The Loire Valley, France
Paris may be a top European honeymoon spot, but a couple of hours south lies the dreamy Loire Valley. Nicknamed “The Garden of France,” this region has all the ingredients for a romantic sojourn. Culture? Explore over 300 châteaux, from medieval fortresses to Renaissance castles (some even offer overnight stays). Nature? Glide along the river on a traditional Toue boat. And wine? Sip celebrated varieties like Sancerre and Vouvray. It’s a fairytale destination, perfectly suited for newlyweds.
Where to Stay: Wake up in your own castle at Hotel Château du Grand-Lucé. This 18th-century neoclassical château has just 19 rooms, ensuring an intimate experience. It’s also less than an hour by train from Paris, making it easy to add a few days in the City of Light to your trip.
The Sacred Valley, Peru
A honeymoon is the perfect time to check off a bucket-list trip, and few destinations offer as many jaw-dropping, once-in-a-lifetime experiences as Peru. At the top of any itinerary is Machu Picchu, the mysterious Incan citadel and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. To experience it in style, stay at Tambo del Inka, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, nestled next to a river in the charming town of Urubamba. It offers tranquility after a long flight (with delightful couples’ treatments in its expansive spa) and even has its own train station, whisking you directly to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. A luxurious train ride through the Andes is a truly romantic experience.
Where to Stay: Tambo del Inka sets the standard in the Sacred Valley, blending classic Peruvian hospitality with luxury—think alpacas roaming the grounds, Incan textiles adorning the walls, and coca tea on tap. It also boasts a well-appointed spa and gourmet dining. At its flagship Hawa restaurant, the tasting menu features delicacies like Nikkei-style tuna ceviche or an elevated take on lomo saltado, and no visit is complete without a perfectly mixed Pisco sour.
Banff National Park, Canada
Banff National Park, Canada’s oldest, showcases the Rocky Mountains in all their rugged glory. Honeymooners looking to spend quality time in nature will find themselves in a striking setting…This region boasts hundreds of glaciers, vibrant blue lakes, and over a thousand miles of hiking trails. For those looking to truly disconnect, consider one of the park’s famous backpacking adventures, then unwind with a few nights at a luxurious lakeside retreat.
Where to Stay: The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise was built over a century ago as a base for mountaineers and is now listed among the Historic Hotels of America. In its early years, it drew celebrities like Alfred Hitchcock and Marilyn Monroe, earning it the nickname “Hollywood of the North” in the early 1900s.
Riviera Nayarit, Mexico
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Choosing the perfect honeymoon region in Mexico is more challenging than it seems. You have the Caribbean shores of Tulum, the Sonoran desert scenery of Baja California Sur, and the cultural allure of places like San Miguel de Allende. If you’ve experienced these and want something new (and less crowded), head to the breathtaking Pacific coastline of Riviera Nayarit.
Where to Stay: This area is no longer a hidden gem, attracting top names in hospitality. For an adults-only escape, book one of the 15 luxury tented bungalows at Naviva, A Four Seasons Resort. Set on 48 acres of jungle, the resort offers bespoke experiences with no set menus, perfect for romantic moments like spontaneous beachside dinners.
Côn Đảo, Vietnam
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Vietnam is a top travel destination for 2026, and for those wanting to experience its stunning landscapes without the crowds, Côn Đảo is ideal. This small archipelago off the southern coast (just a 45-minute flight from Ho Chi Minh City) is perfect for honeymooners, featuring dense jungles, pristine beaches, and five-star luxury resorts.
Where to Stay: Inspired by a traditional fishing village, Six Senses Con Dao is a stunning beach retreat with 50 villas, each featuring a private infinity pool. The resort has also recently completed a major renovation of its 15,000-square-meter spa.
The Swiss Alps
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If you’re tired of tropical getaways, why not try something unexpected like a winter honeymoon? The Swiss Alps offer historic villages and iconic peaks at every turn. Enjoy days of skiing and sledding, followed by Champagne and fondue for two.
Where to Stay: With the Alps covering about 65% of Switzerland, picking the right base requires careful consideration. If a high alpine village nestled between two glacial lakes appeals to you, book a stay at the Tschuggen Grand Hotel in Arosa. It features a private mountain funicular and an impressive spa built into the mountainside, designed by architect Mario Botta.
The French Riviera
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Picasso and Matisse painted it, F. Scott Fitzgerald wrote about it, and for centuries, the glamorous have flocked to the dazzling Côte d’Azur. Honeymooners will find plenty to do here, from sunbathing in Juan-les-Pins to hiking the red rocks of the Massif de l’Esterel.
Where to Stay: The French Riviera has no shortage of spectacular honeymoon hotels. For a relaxed stay in a cozy setting, head to Château de Théoule in the quiet village of Théoule-sur-Mer. This hotel is a transformed 17th-century soap factory, now a luxurious 44-room accommodation with a private beach and a wonderful waterfront bar perfect for sipping local rosé.
Tuscany, Italy
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While discovering hidden gems is exciting, this is your honeymoon. If you dream of a classic romantic escape like Tuscany, don’t let its popularity stop you. The best way to experience it is by renting a car and leisurely exploring the countryside, stopping at vineyards for spontaneous tastings and family-run osterias for local cuisine.
Where to Stay: The finest hotels inIn Tuscany, embrace the art of Italian hospitality—warm, generous, and familial. If you’re planning a honeymoon road trip, consider starting with a stay at Follonico in the heart of the region. With just six guest rooms, this agriturismo offers an authentic experience. For a few days in Florence immersed in Renaissance art and architecture, honeymooners will find no better place than one of the 20 rooms at The Place Firenze. The property feels more like a private residence than a hotel, decorated with pieces crafted by local artisans. For an all-out luxury retreat among the vines, settle into Como Castello del Nero for a few days of pampering.
South Africa
If the idea of rising before dawn to watch the morning light fall on a pride of lions sounds romantic, consider an African safari for your honeymoon. While the trip involves some logistics—long flights, visas, and occasionally malaria pills—the payoff is well worth it. Enjoy the thrill of tracking wild animals in their natural habitat, along with luxurious safari touches like wine-fueled sundowners and open-air spa treatments.
Where to Stay: Since the 1930s, Singita has set the gold standard for ultra-luxury safari lodges and wildlife reserves. The company operates across Africa, but its very first destination was Singita Ebony Lodge in South Africa’s Sabi Sand, which recently underwent a renovation. If possible, plan an itinerary that includes a few different lodges to experience multiple habitats and wildlife.
New Zealand
New Zealand truly lives up to the word “epic.” The country’s two islands are a playground for outdoor lovers, featuring geothermal parks, ancient glaciers, snowy alps, subtropical forests, and incredible stargazing—and that’s just the beginning. When you’re ready to unwind, explore the spectacular wine regions or take a cruise through breathtaking fjords.
Where to Stay: Start your trip at Wharekauha in the dramatic Palliser Bay on the North Island. Set in Wairarapa wine country, this property combines a farm stay feel with the luxury of a secluded lodge. Rosewood Cape Kidnappers is another favorite on the North Island, located in sunny Hawke’s Bay atop a 6,000-acre peninsula that also serves as a wildlife sanctuary—join the nighttime tour to try and spot a kiwi. If Queenstown on the South Island is on your list, the villas at Gibbston Valley Lodge & Spa are nestled among vineyards.
Saint Barthélemy
The upscale glamour of St. Barths is legendary. As one Vogue writer noted, “the moment you descend onto St. Barths, you know you’re in for something spectacular.” This West Indies island is a honeymoon favorite, thanks to its upscale seafood restaurants, five-star hotels, and vibrant beach clubs. The natural setting is equally stunning, with secluded beaches to hike to, underwater caves to snorkel, and nearby islets to explore by boat.
Where to Stay: For a discreet, romantic atmosphere while still enjoying the social side of St. Barths, stay at Le Toiny. Surrounded by wild terrain, guests take an open-air safari jeep down steep dirt paths to reach the luxurious beach club, known for its lobster salad and local tuna tartare. The rooms are airy, crisp, and undeniably luxurious, each with a private plunge pool overlooking the ocean. Alternatively, Cheval Blanc St. Barths—owned by luxury group LVMH—is another top choice, nestled among bougainvillea arches and lush greenery.It has a vibrant energy that blends the French Riviera with the tropics.
Sossusvlei Desert, Namibia
Photo: Courtesy of AndBeyond
Reaching Sossusvlei, a remote area within the vast Namib Desert, requires at least three flights. But the long journey is well worth it. You’ll discover a landscape that feels more like Mars than Earth, the world’s second-darkest night sky, and an unforgettable adventure.
Where to Stay: Book a stay at andBeyond Sossusvlei. Spend your mornings e-biking through the property’s 31,419-acre private sandy reserve or taking a sunrise hot air balloon ride. Cool off in your stone-and-glass studio’s infinity pool in the afternoon heat. When you’re ready to explore again, a ranger can take you deep into the dunes for a cocktail hour, or you can hike the dunes first and then enjoy a cocktail hour.
The Amalfi Coast
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With its sparkling views of the Tyrrhenian Sea, the Amalfi Coast looks like it’s straight out of a storybook. Dramatic cliffs are hugged by a coastline of azure water and colorful homes that seem carved into the hillsides. While Positano is the most famous town, don’t miss its quieter neighbor Praiano or the hilltop hamlet of Ravello with its sweeping views. Wherever you stay, you’ll find no shortage of romantic accommodations in this dreamy, la dolce vita destination.
Where to Stay: Consider the Belmond Hotel Caruso. Perched high in the hills of Ravello, its distance from the busier towns below offers a more private experience. Wander through lush gardens, shop in quaint Ravello, join a complimentary boat excursion, and, of course, enjoy delicious pasta. Vogue also loves Le Sirenuse. While Positano can get crowded in high season, this red-hued property with mosaic terraces, elegant rooms, and sea views makes you feel in your own world. For an iconic Ravello stay, the Palazzo Avino is a 12th-century pink villa with a Michelin-starred restaurant.
The Greek Islands
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Greece is often the first destination that comes to mind for a quintessential honeymoon—so much so that we’ve created a guide on planning a Greek honeymoon fit for the gods. One of the most romantic islands is, of course, Santorini. Famous for its iconic whitewashed buildings cascading down the cliffs, it’s a picture of Grecian beauty. To experience the ancient caldera without the crowds, arrive in Oia just before sunrise and explore less-trafficked areas like the hilltop village of Pyrgos.
Where to Stay: Consider Canaves Oia Suites for its plunge pools, Grace Hotel, Auberge Resorts Collection for its prime location facing Skaros Rock, Andronis Boutique Hotel for private terraces with hot tubs, Katikies for its white cave architecture, and Mystique for a restaurant with breathtaking views. For a getaway further from the caldera crowds, try Vedema Resort in the medieval village of Megalochori.
Umbria, Italy
Photo: By Philip Vile
If you’ve already experienced Tuscany and want something new, head just south to Umbria for a quieter escape. As one Vogue writer notes, “the pace is gentler here, the scenery wilder—a mosaic of forests, olive groves, and ancient hill towns that still feel intimately connected to the land.” While hoteliers and restaurateurs are starting to notice the region’s potential, it retains a charmingly rustic vibe.
Where to Stay: “Old meets new at Reschio, a place where you can feel the heft of centuries in the solid stone ramparts and brush up against the most up-to-the-minute modern comforts,” says Vogue editor Chloe Scudder.Hama wrote about Castello di Reschio, a 1,000-year-old castle transformed into a hotel, perched high in Italy’s Umbrian Hills. The estate is deeply committed to sustainability, with most of its produce sourced from its own gardens, vineyards, and beehives. The design is equally impressive, featuring interiors decorated with intricate stucco work, stone-carved fireplaces, antique artworks, and trompe l’oeil ceilings. Also worth a visit is Borgo dei Conti, which gives guests the freedom to explore a picturesque hilltop village and includes a spa complex.
Costa Rica
A country so lush that over half of it is covered in forest, Costa Rica is wonderfully wild. Honeymooners can explore everything from dense tropical rainforests and high-altitude ecosystems to diverse marine habitats. Adventure seekers can choose from thrilling activities like whitewater rafting, scuba diving, and zip-lining. For those needing a mental reset after the wedding, the country’s world-renowned yoga retreats and wellness spas are perfect. With warm weather year-round, it’s always an ideal time for couples to visit Costa Rica.
Where to Stay: Eco-adventurers will find a perfect romantic escape at Nayara Tented Camp, a luxurious retreat bordering Costa Rica’s Arenal Volcano National Park. The tents are nestled among guarumo trees, home to brightly plumed toucans and howler monkeys. Each accommodation features a private plunge pool fed by volcanic spring water. Take a yoga class in their open-air studio, then head out on a hiking adventure through the rainforest.
Benguerra Island, Mozambique
For an under-the-radar alternative to the Seychelles, honeymooners should consider Mozambique’s Benguerra Island in the Indian Ocean. This peaceful locale truly lives up to the term “untouched,” offering powdery white sand beaches, coral reefs teeming with colorful fish, and tropical sunsets worthy of a postcard.
Where to Stay: Benguerra Island is home to two five-star resorts. The first is Kisawa, which embraces African modernist architecture and an adventurer’s spirit. Upon arrival, guests receive keys to a pastel-colored Moke and are free to roam the property’s over 700 acres (a tip: always keep the resort map handy). The food is fresh, local, and seafood-based—many dishes are caught by the island’s fishermen—and the service is impeccable. Additionally, a portion of each stay’s proceeds supports the Bazaruto Center for Scientific Studies, Africa’s first permanent marine observatory. Then there’s the tranquil andBeyond, nestled in an indigenous forest that is home to over 150 bird species. The beach stretches for miles without any other structures in sight, and just offshore offers some of the world’s best snorkeling. Despite its expansive grounds, the property maintains a wonderful intimacy with only 13 lodging structures.
Douro Valley, Portugal
There’s wine country, and then there’s the Douro Valley. This UNESCO Heritage Region is famous for its towering terraced vineyards that produce grapes for Port wine. Beyond its legendary wines, it’s a destination you must see in person to fully appreciate its spectacular beauty—whether by taking a scenic train ride along the Douro River or hopping on a boat that winds through the valley. Naturally, the entire experience is impeccably romantic, making it a lovely setting for honeymooners.
Where to Stay: Wine lovers will fall for the Six Senses Douro Valley, a five-star sustainable retreat set among rolling Portuguese vineyards. Stroll the grounds—which include a rare 19th-century forest garden filled with oaks, strawberry trees, cedars, palms, and firs—relax by the pool, or enjoy a picnic arranged on the hotel grounds. Above all, be sure to explore the region’s famous Douro Quintas, or wine estates, via a boat ride along the Iberian peninsula’s river.
The Maldives
The Maldives has built an iconic reputation as a romantic destination.The Maldives is a dreamy escape, celebrated for its vibrant marine life—including the magnificent whale shark. It’s a place defined by iconic overwater villas, sparkling lagoons, unique coral-sand beaches, and traditional dhoni boats. Life moves at a leisurely pace here, creating an idyllic atmosphere for a honeymoon.
Where to Stay:
At Niyama Private Islands, you can snorkel, dive, or simply swim in the clear blue waters of the Indian Ocean. The resort offers unforgettable dining—from underwater and treetop restaurants to a sultry rooftop bar. For families, it also features the largest kids’ club in the Indian Ocean, where little ones can even join dolphin-spotting adventures along the white-sand beaches.
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Craving culture? Marrakech is in a league of its own. As one Vogue writer put it, this enchanting city lies “at the historic crossroads between Europe, Africa, and the Arab world…” offering a nearly endless array of honeymoon experiences. Wander the souks to find treasures for your new home, take a sunrise hot-air balloon ride over the Atlas Mountains, or embark on a camel trek into the Sahara.
Where to Stay:
The magic of Marrakech shines at Amanjena, where gazebos, pools, private gardens, and stunning architecture make outdoor lounging feel sacred. Inspired by the rose-colored buildings of old Marrakech, the resort blends historic charm with modern touches like clay tennis courts and a 27-hole golf course beside the Agafay dunes. Soar above the landscape by hot-air balloon by day, then travel by camel to a private spot for a memorable Berber meal under the stars. For a design-forward, bohemian stay, consider El Fenn, long beloved by the fashion and art worlds.
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Big Sur’s California coastline is among the most cinematic in the world, where rocky cliffs meet the churning Pacific below. It’s a natural setting where honeymoons truly shine. With Highway 1 set to reopen in 2026 after landslide repairs, there’s never been a better time to plan a lavish trip to this stunning stretch of California.
Where to Stay:
Post Ranch Inn is consistently ranked among America’s best hotels. Or venture into the redwoods at Alila Ventana Big Sur, which offers glamping and s’mores across 20 serene acres. Whichever you choose, be sure to stop by Big Sur Bakery for breakfast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Of course Here is a list of helpful FAQs about top honeymoon destinations from New Zealand to the Greek Islands
General Planning Timing
Q When is the best time to book a honeymoon
A Ideally start researching 612 months in advance especially for popular destinations or if you want specific resorts or flights Book at least 46 months out for the best rates and availability
Q Whats better an adventurous honeymoon or a relaxing one
A It depends entirely on you as a couple Many destinations like New Zealand or Costa Rica offer a perfect mix of both Discuss your prioritiesdo you want to hike glaciers or lounge on a beach
Q How do we balance our budget with our dream destination
A Prioritize what matters most Consider traveling during the shoulder season for better prices and fewer crowds
DestinationSpecific Questions
New Zealand Adventure Destinations
Q Why is New Zealand a top honeymoon pick
A Its perfect for couples who love stunning diverse landscapes and adventure You can experience glaciers fjords rainforests and beaches plus activities like hiking wine tasting and bungee jumpingall in one trip
Q Is New Zealand only for super active couples
A Not at all While adventure is a highlight you can also have a luxurious relaxed trip with worldclass wine tours in Marlborough scenic train journeys and stays in beautiful lodges with epic views
Q How long do we need for a New Zealand honeymoon
A To see both the North and South Islands without rushing aim for at least 1416 days If you have only 1012 days focus on one island or a specific region for a more relaxed pace
Greek Islands European Classics
Q Which Greek Island is best for honeymooners
A It depends on your vibe
Santorini Iconic for its caldera views sunsets and luxury Best for romance and photos
Mykonos Known for vibrant nightlife chic beaches and great dining