30 best vacation spots for couples around the world in 2024

headshot of writer Tony Huynh
Tony Huynh
February 10, 2024
Two people in bathrobes enjoy a stay in the jungle at one of the best vacation spots for couples.
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Are you and your partner in need of some quality time? Somewhere with stunning views where you can explore to your heart’s content? You’re in luck —we’ve curated a list of the 30 best vacation spots for couples around the world.From Los Cabos to Kyoto, we’ve assessed the environments and attractions of each destination to create our 2024 guide. Complete with tips for enjoying yourself, our list of couple vacation ideas includes the following getaways:While many are in the United States, several destinations are in Asia and Europe.
A map of the 30 best vacation spots for couples.
Let’s begin planning your next romantic vacation. First stop: Hawai’i.

1. Maui, Hawai’i

Ideal for island hoppersThe Hawaiian Islands are a popular destination for couples for good reason, and Maui offers the best of everything. Sometimes, the simple pleasures bring the greatest satisfaction, and there’s nothing simpler than enjoying an island sunrise or sunset together.
The sun sets at a Maui beach, one of the best vacation spots for couples.
For a more indulgent experience, grab a snorkel and flippers to swim with the sea turtles at Turtle Town. Or share a shave ice before spending the day sailing around the neighboring island of Lana’i. Thrill seekers can brave the infamous Road to Hana, a scenic drive complete with IG-worthy waterfalls and narrow jungle roads.

2. Palm Springs, California

Easy drive for L.A. residentsPalm Springs has all the charm and style to deliver a great couples vacation. Take the aerial tram for a scenic ride through Chino Canyon for fine dining at the Peaks Restaurant or the more casual Pines Cafe. Spencer’s Restaurant provides adults-only al fresco dining under the desert sky.
The tram line leads up the canyon at Palm Springs, one of the best vacation spots for couples.
After checking out the must-see destinations, you can pamper yourselves with a couples spa day. The Parker Palm Springs Yacht Club delivers luxurious amenities with a Mid-Century Modern aesthetic. End your day with a drink at PS Air Bar, housed in a grounded 737, with authentic seats, floor lighting and a vintage bar cart.

3. Napa Valley, California

Ideal for wine loversWhether you’re visiting for a weekend or a week, Napa Valley has plenty of couples vacation options. Napa is full of terrific things to do together — like enjoying an unbeatable view of the area from the basket of a hot air balloon (champagne toast is optional).
A hot air balloon rises above a Napa Valley grape field, one of the best vacation spots for couples.
Spend a day at the Carneros Resort and Spa where you can participate in yoga, receive skin treatments and enjoy a soothing massage. Thomas Keller’s The French Laundry is a Michelin 3-star restaurant that’s sure to please your inner foodie. (Reservations can be tough to get, so you might want to try his nearby, Bouchon Bakery.) Of course, you’ll want to squeeze in a winery visit — or three. The wine trolley is a perfect solution that offers a 5-hour open-air tour of the area’s best wineries.

4. Scottsdale, Arizona

Ideal for a stay in the Southwest Whether you’re looking to lounge poolside or spend your days on the golf course, Scottsdale has all the amenities for couples' fun. The Hyatt Regency Scottsdale is a one-stop shop for all of your vacation needs. Rest under a cabana at the pool, test your drive at the exclusive Gainey Ranch Golf Club, and refresh your body and mind at the on-site Spa Avania. If you want to stay longer, Scottsdale is a great place for a second home.
The red rocks of Scottsdale are visible from a green golf course, one of the best vacation spots for couples.
For area entertainment, head to the Desert Botanical Garden and stroll under towering cacti. Sample rotating varietals in the Carlson Creek Vineyard tasting room or explore exhibits at the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art.

5. Sedona, Arizona

Ideal for stargazersSedona is the perfect place to break free from distractions and reconnect with your significant other. The desert is ideal for stargazing, and plenty of guides in the area can lead you to the best locations. Alternatively, you can go it alone with just a constellation phone app as your guide.
The night sky over Sedona is lit up with stars, one of the best vacation spots for couples.
Hiking in Red Rock State Park is the biggest draw to the area, with sites like Cathedral Rock, Chapel of the Holy Cross and Devil’s Bridge Trail serving as standouts. After a day of hiking, enjoy a glass of wine accompanied by live music on the patio at Vino Di Sedona.

6. New Orleans, Louisiana

Ideal for jazz loversNew Orleans is a vibrant destination for couples, thanks to its rich culture and abundant entertainment scene. Let the street musicians determine your playlist as you wander the French Quarter, with its distinctive architecture and party atmosphere.
A river boat leaves the dock in New Orleans, one of the best vacation spots for couples.
Some must-dos in this river city include sampling local food (beignets with lots of powdered sugar, the classic muffuletta sandwich and distinctive Creole cuisine), a Mississippi steamboat cruise and live jazz at Preservation Hall. Take a romantic walk through the New Orleans Botanical Garden to see how the city’s humid climate cultivates lush foliage.  

7. Charleston, South Carolina

Ideal for a blast to the pastCharleston is a distinctly Southern town offering all the charm one would hope for in a vacation spot for couples. Catch a performance at the Charles Gaillard Center, where the Charleston Symphony Orchestra performs, then hop in a horse-drawn carriage for a city tour.
A sailboat sits against the dock in Charleston,one of the best vacation spots for couples.
Get in a rowboat at Cypress Gardens for a romantic experience straight out of “The Notebook.” Have a three-course meal at the Zero George, where you’ll experience fine dining in an intimate environment. More hidden gems of South Carolina are just a short drive away.

8. Savannah, Georgia

Ideal for ghost huntersSavannah exudes old-school Victorian vibes, with ornate buildings and Spanish moss-covered trees lining the streets. It’s a perfect town for a stroll with your beloved.
Cozy houses line the streets of Savannah, one of the best vacation spots for couples.
Jump on a riverboat for a tour of the area in old-fashioned luxury, or head to nearby Tybee Island to look for dolphins and have a fresh seafood lunch. For a spooky adventure, spend a night searching for the supernatural on a candlelit ghost tour of one of the “most haunted” places in the country.

9. Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Ideal for outdoor adventurersFor idyllic mountain meadows, look no further than Jackson Hole. Unleash your inner cowpoke with a horseback ride through nearby Grand Teton National Park and bask in its natural beauty. Although skiing is popular in the area, there are a variety of other winter activities in Jackson Hole, like tubing and visiting hot springs.
Horses graze in a field at Jackson Hole, one of the best vacation spots for couples.
Sip a cold drink and dance to live music at local saloons, then recover with a spa day at Amangani, specializing in ancient healing practices. Snap pictures in the town square under Jackson’s famous antler arch. There’s no shortage of things to do in Jackson Hole.

10. Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts

Ideal for New England charmMartha’s Vineyard has been a longtime favorite retreat for people looking to relax to the sound of crashing waves — that’s why it has a reputation as a great vacation spot for couples. Take your pick of one of the island’s many public beaches for a day in the sand, or spend the day on the water by chartering a sailboat. Play a couple of rounds at Farm Neck Golf Club, one of the best golf courses near Cape Cod.
A lighthouse stands at the coast of Martha’s Vineyard, one of the best vacation spots for couples.
In summer and early fall, take the bus to Gay Head Lighthouse and follow the trail to the Aquinnah Cliffs for sweeping views.  Finally, quench your thirst with a cold beer at Bad Martha, a craft brewery.

11. Montreal, Canada

Ideal for French cuisine French is undoubtedly a romantic language, but you don’t have to travel to France to be immersed in it. Montreal’s official language is French, and that’s just the beginning of what makes this city one of the best vacation spots for couples. Established in the 1700s, Montreal has retained its Old-World feel, with cozy streets begging to be explored.
A brightly lit cathedral is visible from a snow-covered square in Montreal, one of the best vacation spots for couples.
The Montreal Botanical Garden covers 200 acres and has gorgeous trails of varying themes and Art Deco-style pavilions. Tour the ornate Mary, Queen of the World Cathedral or St. Patrick’s Basilica. Afterward, treat yourself to poutine, a mixture of French fries, melted cheese curds and rich gravy. Or try your luck at the Casino de Montreal before enjoying a live performance at the concert venue.

12. Uvita, Costa Rica

Ideal for bird-watchers Costa Rica is an idyllic tropical paradise, and Uvita is in the perfect location to experience what it offers. Rancho La Merced National Wildlife Refuge provides several ways to explore the environment, including horseback riding on the beach, nocturnal hikes through the jungle and bird-watching some 300 species.
The waterfall feeds into a river in Uvita, one of the best vacation spots for couples.
There are also endless opportunities for water-based fun. Go on a whale-watching expedition to search for humpbacks, dolphins, turtles and other sea life. Explore the Uvita Waterfall, which creates a natural waterslide for travelers to ride into the pool below. Get your scuba certification and view the stunning coral reefs.

13. Los Cabos, Mexico

Ideal for golfing couplesTravelers to Los Cabos benefit from its year-round activities and miles of beautiful coastline. If your ideal couples getaway revolves around being pampered at a luxury hotel and returning home with a tan, you can’t ignore Los Cabos.
Unique rock formations rest off the coast of Los Cabos, one of the best vacation spots for couples.
Have your meals on the beach or opt for terraced seating at Esperanza, overlooking the Sea of Cortez. If you have sea legs, go for a sunset dinner cruise on a sailboat accompanied by live music. Or spend your days at one of the dozens of Cabo San Lucas golf courses.

14. Patagonia, Argentina

Ideal for train loversPatagonia covers the southern part of South America and delivers an abundance of sought-after destinations for couples. Ride the End of the World Train, the southernmost train in the world, in a heated coach for a tour of Tierra del Fuego National Park.
A train tours the Tierra del Fuego National Park in Patagonia, one of the best vacation spots for couples.
Cruise around Beagle Channel and learn about the local penguins and seals. Trek through Los Glaciares National Park to experience the Perito Moreno Glacier. Other activities within the park include mountain climbing and sport fishing. While you’re in the country, you won’t want to miss the chance to eat Argentina’s delicious beef and drink its award-winning wine.

15. Reykjavik, Iceland

Ideal for seeing the northern lightsTouring Iceland is one of the best trips for couples who love to connect with nature. Soak in the Blue Lagoon, whose mineral-rich, geothermal-heated waters are said to have soothing qualities. The Seljalandsfoss waterfall is one of the most beautiful you’ll come across, with a path leading behind the cascading water during warmer months.
A large waterfall fills a remote pool near Reykjavik, one of the best vacation spots for couples.
Snorkeling isn’t just for the tropics. Throw on a thermal wetsuit and swim in the Silfra Fissure, a gap between the tectonic plates of North America and Europe. Visit between October and March for the best chance at seeing the northern lights. Stay in a specialized rental in the wilderness for a truly unforgettable sight.

16. Dublin, Ireland

Ideal for pub crawlingDublin is a romantic getaway full of charm — and liquid refreshment. Tours of the Guinness Storehouse and Jameson Irish Whiskey distillery  often top visitor to-do lists. Expect each tour to last roughly four hours and come with generous tastings.
Couples cross a bridge in Dublin, one of the best vacation spots for couples.
Or skip the tours and create your own self-guided pub crawl to experience local drink, food and people — the Temple Bar District is a good starting point. Cross over the River Liffey on one of the city’s scenic bridges or navigate the river in rented kayaks for a unique view of your surroundings. Attend an enchanting Irish music and dance show at the Irish House Party and receive a three-course meal from an award-winning kitchen.

17. Marbella, Spain

Ideal for Mediterranean getawaysMarbella is a wonderful city on Spain’s southern coast that caters to your inner romantic. The beaches are the big draw, with plenty of food and drink served at beach clubs. Rent jet skis for added excitement, or simply wade into the blue water to cool off.
Whitewashed homes line narrow alleys in Marbella, one of the best vacation spots for couples.
The old town district is filled with boutiques and quaint restaurants. The scene offers a great opportunity to walk around with your loved one. Marbella also has a lively nightlife, with rooftop bars offering cool drinks and hot music.

18. Helsinki, Finland

Ideal for spa-like saunasHelsinki is home to the Kaisaniemi Botanic Garden, where you can walk through 10 glasshouses and see over 1,300 plant species from around the world. Explore the Ateneum Art Museum, which houses Finnish works dating to the early 19th century. 
Lush gardens soak in the midnight sun of Helsinki, one of the best vacation spots for couples.
Saunas are deeply embedded in Finland’s culture, so you might want to spring for a private experience with your significant other at the luxurious Löyly Complex. Or hop in the SkySauna for a sauna in a Ferris wheel gondola with city views.

19. Bruges, Belgium

Ideal for fairytale romanceNo town embodies the term “fairytale” quite like Bruges. The medieval city is so well preserved that it’s a protected World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Like Venice, Bruges is knows for canals running through the city — perfect for a romantic boat tour.
Stone buildings sit at the edge of a canal in Bruges, one of the best vacation spots for couples.
The Minnewaterbrug (or Lovers’ Bridge)  is said to create eternal love when a couple crosses it together. Like the rest of Belgium, Bruges takes its beer seriously, so don’t hesitate to stop into one of its many breweries to sample the local offerings. And the country’s artisanal chocolates are a perfect gift for a loved one.

20. Lausanne, Switzerland

Ideal for Gothic architecture buffsLausanne sits on the north shore of Lake Geneva, offering stunning views of the Alps. If the natural scenery alone isn’t enough incentive, the city’s old town will be. Lausanne is filled with preserved Gothic architecture that you must see to believe. Tour the Château Saint-Maire and the Lausanne Cathedral to take a step back in time and appreciate these medieval wonders.     
The steeple of a cathedral sticks out among the other medieval buildings in Lausanne, one of the best vacation spots for couples.
The Hotel Royal Savoy is another aesthetic attraction; while you’re there, you may as well take advantage of its world-class spa. The city’s burgeoning art district is home to three major museums. Spend your days in the mountains — where cable cars take you to restaurants that rotate to provide perfect views — or walking along the lakefront.

21. Venice, Italy

Ideal for classic canal ridesThe gondolas of Venice need no introduction, but there’s more to this city of canals. Walk to the Rialto Bridge at sunset and watch the Grand Canal light up for the night. Enjoy a ballet or opera at the Fenice Opera House — just don’t get too distracted by its elegant, golden interior.
A loan gondola floats in the canal of Venice, one of the best vacation spots for couples.
Share a bottle of wine at the Cantina Do Spade and dine on authentic Venetian cuisine. Tour the Doge’s Palace to experience just how decadent the 11th century could be. Finally, appreciate the craftsmanship of St. Mark’s Basilica with its domes and turrets.

22. Santorini, Greece

Ideal for cliffside enchantmentThe scenic cliffs of Santorini draw couples to the area like moths to a flame. The Santorini Cable Car at Fira transports you down the cliffside in comfort. At the bottom, charter a boat in the Old Port area to reach the Caldera hot springs. Most tours allow the opportunity to take a quick dip in the warm water.
Tightly packed white buildings cover the cliff of Santorini, one of the best vacation spots for couples.
Enjoy fine Mediterranean cuisine with a glass of local wine at La Maison. Then head to Kamari to watch an outdoor movie surrounded by trees. Rent an ATV to quickly get to sites like the Akrotiri Lighthouse.

23. Kyoto, Japan

Ideal for tranquil trekkingKyoto is known for its temples, shrines, gardens and palaces — so much so that it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site. Strolling its streets is both romantic and inspiring. Walk down Sannenzaka Slope and gaze at the traditional wooden buildings with tiled roofs.
A cherry blossom tree shades the street in Kyoto, one of the best vacation spots for couples.
The Golden Pavilion, aptly named for its gilded exterior, is the stuff of Instagram dreams, with ideal photo spots near the lake. The Yasaka Shrine, founded in 1350, has hundreds of lanterns that are lit each night. And if you’re lucky enough to visit in late March or early April, visit Maruyama Park to see the cherry blossom trees in full bloom.

24. Singapore

Ideal for dim sumSingapore is a city-state in Southeast Asia on the cutting edge of technology. The Gardens by the Bay is a perfect example, blending architectural ingenuity with nature to make visitors feel like they’ve entered a new world. Take your partner to the top of the Supertree Observatory for an unforgettable sight.
The skyline of Singapore is visible from the water, one of the best vacation spots for couples.
The Singapore Zoo gives visitors the chance to have breakfast while surrounded by animals in their re-created habitats and even have the chance to meet them. The ArtScience Museum puts on an array of exhibitions that will dazzle you, including the VR Gallery, for a thoroughly immersive experience.  

25. Bali, Indonesia

Ideal for honeymoonersIf long flights don’t intimidate you, head to the infinitely photogenic island of Bali. A top spot for honeymooners, Bali provides all the romance two people can handle. Couples vacation ideas include touring the lake resort area of Bedugul and the more urban hub of Ubud, both of which feature landmarks of Bali’s history. Guides can even pick you up from your hotel and explain the sites you pass on the way.
Ancient shrines draw visitors to Bali, one of the best vacation spots for couples.
Diamonds may be a girl’s best friend, but handmade jewelry gives them a run for their money. Craft your own gold or silver rings at a workshop led by master craftspeople. Then, satisfy your appetite in a Paon Bali Cooking Class, where you can learn to cook traditional Indonesian food.

26. Cardiff, Wales

Ideal for walking through castle gardensCardiff, the vibrant capital city of Wales, stands out as an ideal vacation spot for couples seeking a romantic and culturally rich getaway. The city is adorned with iconic landmarks such as Cardiff Castle, a medieval masterpiece with beautifully landscaped gardens, providing a romantic setting for leisurely strolls.
A photo of Cardiff, Wales, one of the best vacation spots for couples.
Cardiff Bay, a waterfront haven, is another highlight for couples, offering scenic walks, boat rides and an array of dining options. The bay creates a magical backdrop for romantic moments, especially as the sun sets.

27. Baros, Maldives

Ideal for sunset sailingBarosBaros is the epitome of romantic luxury, making it an unparalleled vacation spot for couples seeking an idyllic retreat. This private island resort offers an exclusive and intimate setting for couples to unwind and reconnect.
A photo of Baros, Maldives, one of the best vacation spots for couples.
Couples can indulge in the ultimate relaxation at the resort's world-class spa, where overwater treatment rooms offer panoramic Indian Ocean views. Sunset cruises and private dining experiences on the beach or aboard a traditional Maldivian dhoni further enhance the romantic atmosphere.

28. New York City, New York

Ideal for fans of art and theaterCouples can begin their journey by taking a leisurely stroll through Central Park, a sprawling oasis in the heart of Manhattan. The park's scenic landscapes, serene lakes and charming bridges create a romantic setting for couples to escape the hustle and bustle of the big city and enjoy some quality time together. Boating on the lake or having a picnic in Sheep Meadow adds a touch of tranquility to the urban adventure.
A photo of New York City, New York, one of the best vacation spots for couples.
A visit to iconic Times Square or a romantic evening stroll across the Brooklyn Bridge, with the city lights twinkling in the background, add a touch of magic to the New York experience. The city's neighborhoods, each with its own unique charm, allow couples to explore and discover hidden gems, from quaint coffee shops in Greenwich Village to the charming streets of SoHo.

29. Marrakech, Morocco

Ideal for haggling in marketsSet against the Atlas Mountains, Marrakech enchants visitors with its bustling souks, intricate architecture and the intoxicating scents of spices and blossoms. Couples can begin their exploration in the heart of the city, the historic Medina, where the iconic Jemaa el-Fna Square comes alive with storytellers, musicians and traditional street performances.
A photo of Marrakech, Morocco, one of the best vacation spots for couples.
The city's diverse dining options range from street food adventures in the bustling markets to elegant rooftop restaurants offering panoramic city views. The souks — or markets — of Marrakech present an opportunity for couples to shop for handcrafted treasures, textiles and jewelry.

30. Mallorca, Spain

Ideal for strolling through seaside villagesThe sun-kissed island of Mallorca in the western Mediterranean is renowned for its golden beaches, crystal-clear waters and picturesque villages, making it one of the best vacation spots in the world for couples.
A photo of Mallorca, Spain, one of the best vacation spots for couples.
Wander the charming streets of Palma de Mallorca, the island's capital. The historic architecture of the Palma Cathedral and the Almudaina Palace provides a romantic backdrop for leisurely strolls.

Tips for creating the best couples vacations

An image shares six tips couples can use when they travel to one of the best vacation spots for couples in the world.
However, travel can also be a stressful experience and strain a relationship. Here are some tips on how to make your romantic vacations run smoothly:
  1. Make the essentials easy to reach. Fill a bag with phone chargers, water bottles, snacks and neck pillows. Keep it easily accessible when you’re in transit to make the experience more pleasant when times get tough.
  2. Review your plans daily. Make sure you’re both on the same page about where you’ll go and what you’ll do. Good communication can prevent blowups down the road. Try to prioritize something special for each of you. 
  3. Remember to be patient. Whether you’re tired, hungry or annoyed, there’s a good chance the other person is experiencing the same thing. Patience will keep you from reacting negatively and help preserve the spirit of the trip. 
  4. Alone time is healthy. Constantly being around the same person for days can be draining, even when it’s someone you love. Stepping away to collect yourself shouldn’t be taken as an insult. 
  5. Surprise each other along the way. Stick to the plan, but don’t be afraid to do something unexpected for your significant other. Surprise them with a local trinket or a meal at an undisclosed spot to make them feel special.  
  6. Manage your expectations. Destinations won’t always deliver on the promises in the brochure. There will be crowds, it might be dirty, and it can get expensive. It’s no one person’s fault, and it can be a great opportunity to make the most of it together.
Now that you know the best vacation spots for couples, which destination will you and your partner travel to first? If you can see yourself frequenting one of these romantic getaways, it may benefit you to buy a vacation home rather than repeatedly renting accommodations.As a co-owner of a Pacaso vacation home, you own a fully managed turnkey luxury getaway for a fraction of the cost. With multiple financing options, your second home dreams could become a reality sooner than you think.

Best vacation spots for couples FAQ

01: Are couples vacations a good idea?

Traveling to a few couples vacation spots can be a great way to reconnect with your partner. If your budget and schedules allow, couple vacations can be a good idea for couples looking to spend more quality time together.

02: What is the best vacation for a couple?

The best couples getaways span the globe. While there are domestic locations like New York and California, Mediterranean gems like Spain and Italy are also romantic vacation ideas.

03: Which places are best for couples?

The best places for couples to travel will depend on each couple's preferences. Discuss what scenery and cuisine you want to experience together and select a location based on your shared goals for the romantic getaway.

04: What is the most romantic place for couples in the U.S.?

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