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20 Best Honeymoon Destinations for Every Budget and Location [2023]

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Selecting the right destination for your first trip as a married couple isn’t easy, as there are so many popular honeymoon destinations where you can have the trip of a lifetime. Choosing the perfect honeymoon destination comes down to thinking about your wants and needs together.

This article will list some of the best honeymoon destinations in the world and offer some expert honeymoon travel tips that’ll help you plan the perfect partner getaway.

Honeymoon Travel Planning

Picking just the right destination for your honeymoon can seem overwhelming. While choosing the perfect place takes some time and research, it ensures you’ll have a successful, hassle-free honeymoon. Here’s how to go about it.

Make a List

If you’re wondering where to start, sit down with your partner and make a list of the following:

  • Your budget
  • What you like to do (activities, dining, etc.)
  • Your travel style
  • The season you plan to travel
  • Whether or not you want to leave the country
  • Your bank of credit card points, hotel points, and frequent flyer miles

Narrow It Down

Couple reviewing financial documents
Making a list and answering questions with your partner can narrow down honeymoon options. Image Credit: Mikhail Nilov via Pexels

After creating a list and answering these questions, you will be able to significantly narrow down your options for the top honeymoon destinations.

For example, if you plan your honeymoon for August or September, you’ll want to consider the Atlantic and Pacific hurricane seasons. It may be best to skip the Caribbean or Mexico and instead head to Europe or consider a honeymoon in the U.S.

If you’re on a budget, perhaps an expensive trip to the Maldives is out of the question. You might prefer a more affordable destination that’s closer to home, like the Dominican Republic or Florida.

Deciding what you want to do is also vital when planning your honeymoon. If you hate the sun and beach, opt for a cultural or city break to Lisbon or New Orleans instead. If you want prime relaxation and everything organized for you, consider an all-inclusive honeymoon destination like Cancún.

Finally, check that bank of points and miles. This is what can turn a luxury trip or splurge hotel into a reality. Even budget travelers that have a healthy stash of Chase Ultimate Rewards or Amex Membership Rewards may be able to book that first class flight in Emirates or use Marriott Bonvoy points to stay at a fancy St. Regis.

Get Creative

Don’t forget to think outside the box. For example, if you’re considering a honeymoon in Punta Cana, it may be hundreds of dollars cheaper to fly into Santo Domingo (SDQ) instead of Punta Cana (PUJ), where you can enjoy some historic, foodie, and cultural experiences before driving a few hours to Punta Cana afterward.

Or, weigh all your options if you hold a transferrable points currency. If you carefully understand all your options, you may be able to fly a new airline or stay at a hotel you hadn’t considered.

The 4 Best Honeymoon Destinations on a Budget

If you’re in the market for the best affordable honeymoon destinations, these are some inexpensive honeymoon spots around the world to consider. Whether you’d prefer to stay closer to home in the U.S., head south to Mexico, or visit Europe, your honeymoon doesn’t have to break your budget.

1. Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon Portugal rooftops
Admiring Lisbon’s rooftops via the city’s viewpoints is a free activity for honeymooners. Image Credit: Steffen Zimmermann from Pixabay

Lisbon is one of the best honeymoon destinations in Europe — and also one of the most affordable. Things like accommodation, activities, cuisine, and even flights, especially on TAP Portugal, are often cheaper than some of the country’s other European counterparts, and you can maximize this by dipping into your stash of points and miles to fly and stay.

There are plenty of free activities to do there, like traversing the cobblestone, hilly streets of the Alfama district, admiring the city’s rooftops from a miradouro (viewpoint), or exploring the famous Padrão dos Descobrimentos or Belem Tower that overlook the crashing sea. When your stomach rumbles, pick up a few pastéis de nata, which are cheap and delicious Portuguese pastries to share with your partner.

For a cost-effective stay, consider The Vintage, a boutique hotel. Rooms offer cool, memorable touches like local artwork and vintage bar carts. Or, dip into your collection of IHG points to stay at the Convent Square Lisbon, Vignette Collection, a contemporary hotel with some serious history: It was once a 13th-century Dominican convent.

Hot Tip:

Planning a honeymoon to Portugal? These are some of the best ways to earn TAP Portugal Miles and the best ways to redeem them.

2. Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas Strip
The glamorous lights of the Las Vegas strip. Image Credit: young soo Park via Pixabay

Sin City isn’t just for bachelor parties and girls’ getaways. And, assuming you don’t blow your budget at the tables or slots, Las Vegas can be affordable for many. It’s right here in the U.S., and you can sometimes find comfortable hotels for less than $100 per night.

It’s also perfect for honeymooners looking for a shorter getaway, as heading to Vegas for a long weekend doesn’t have to break the break, assuming you’re not hitting the high roller tables. Low rollers can always head to downtown Las Vegas, which has cheaper slots and lower table minimums.

Although couples can spend a few days simply exploring the Strip’s unique, vibrant hotelscape and casinos or hitting pool parties, bars, restaurants, and nightclubs, it’s also possible to unwind in Vegas.

One of the best day spas is the 134,000-square-foot Canyon Ranch Las Vegas Day Spa, which offers fitness, nutrition, and spa services. Couples should opt for the Couples’ Retreat Package, which offers an exfoliation, romantic scented bath, and massage for 2. Beyond that, choose from gondola rides at the Venetian, fancy cocktails at chic bars like The Chandelier Bar at Paris, or get out and explore the Nevadian expanse at destinations like Red Rock Canyon or Lake Mead.

When it comes to Vegas accommodation, the city has it all. Splurge or save however you’d like, with room options as low as $50 to $70 at hotels like The STRAT and Luxor or near the Freemont Street Experience. Or, opt for a points hotel like the Waldorf Astoria Las Vegas (Hilton) or The Venetian Las Vegas (IHG).

3. Mexico

Cancun Mexico
Mexico’s white sands are ideal for honeymooners looking to frolic on picturesque beaches. Image Credit: Michelle_Raponi via Pixabay

From popular tourist areas like Cancún, Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and Los Cabos to under-the-radar destinations like Oaxaca, Mexico City, or Bacalar, Mexico is one of the best honeymoon destinations on a budget. It’s relatively simple to get to from the U.S. and the country has numerous points hotels, from all-inclusive resorts to wellness retreats and cute boutique hotels.

Honeymooners looking for points hotels or all-inclusive options may be best served visiting more popular, beachy destinations like Cancún. Those wanting to explore might opt for history and culture in the charming San Miguel de Allende, or the car-free, relaxed island of Holbox. Mexico City is a bustling, massive metropolitan area perfect for foodies on a budget, where you can get tacos for $1 or have an “affordable” splurge on a Michelin-star tasting menu for under $130 at Pujol.

Mexico is a perfect spot for cash-poor, points-rich travelers. The romantic The Cape, a Thompson Hotel (Hyatt) in Los Cabos feels reminiscent of vintage California living with a Mexican touch, while the St. Regis Punta Mita (Marriott) offers the utmost coastal opulence on its 22-acre resort. And the Hyatt Zilara Cancun, an adults-only, all-inclusive property, is perfect for honeymooners who want their every need met.

Hot Tip:

Those on a budget may want to consider redeeming World of Hyatt points — this particular points currency offers pretty high value when it comes to redemptions. You can earn World of Hyatt points using The World of Hyatt Credit Card. Or, opt for a card such as the Chase Sapphire Reserve® or Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card, as Chase Ultimate Rewards points transfer to World of Hyatt.

4. Prague, Czech Republic

Prague view
Prague feels like an otherwordly fairytale. Image Credit: Pexels via Pixabay

Couples that really want to travel to Europe on a budget should consider Prague, one of the continent’s most affordable honeymoon destinations. Although getting there might take some time and money, once you’ve arrived, things like activities, cuisine, tours, and even beers are relatively affordable. And, it doesn’t get more romantic than Prague for honeymooners looking for a romantic, cultural, and historical experience, thanks to the Czech city’s Gothic bridges and fairytale hilltop castle complex.

Wandering is free, but you may want to consider paying the $12 to see Prague Castle, which is more of its own city than just a castle, including various cathedrals, basilicas, a bell tower, a palace, and more. Crossing the bridges that span the Vltava River is perfect for photo ops, and river cruises can be catered to any budget, from a quick boat up the river to a full-on dinner and drinks evening cruise.

Points holders may want to opt for a stay at the Andaz Prague (Hyatt) or the Hilton Prague Old Town. Otherwise, consider the Golden Well, an intimate property with just 17 guestrooms and 2 suites with a charming rooftop terrace that overlooks Prague’s rooftops.

The 3 Best All-Inclusive Honeymoon Destinations

Many couples want an easy and convenient all-inclusive honeymoon, especially after the stress of planning a wedding. The ease and simplicity of having everything organized and at your fingertips make for prime relaxation and bonding during your special trip. However, some spots are better than others when it comes to all-inclusive honeymoon destinations. Here are some of the best.

1. Dominican Republic

Dominican Republic
Honeymooners will love the white sands and clear waters in the Dominican Republic. Image Credit: DEZALB via Pixabay

Anyone hoping for a traditional all-inclusive experience complete with white sands and crashing ocean waves should consider the Dominican Republic. Although Punta Cana is one of the most popular destinations for anyone looking for an all-inclusive honeymoon, other spots offer an all-inclusive experience, such as Puerto Plata and La Romana.

This country is also affordable, easy to reach from the U.S., and has numerous hotel options for anyone who has a bank of points and miles — especially World of Hyatt points.

Most all-inclusive resorts in the Dominican Republic are fully inclusive of drinks, food, accommodation, and some activities. However, it’s important to decide if you’d prefer an adults-only property, a family-friendly hotel, a boutique-style all-inclusive hotel, or a large, all-encompassing resort — and generally what kind of vibe you’d like to experience. If you’re planning an all-inclusive vacation, accommodation is the most important thing, as you’ll be spending all or most of your time at the resort.

Some of our favorites for honeymooners include the Sanctuary Cap Cana, Marriott’s first luxury all-inclusive resort in the Dominican Republic, featuring swim-up suites and ocean views, and the Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana, home to 25 different restaurants and bars. The Zoëtry Agua Punta Cana is especially intimate for honeymooners. It’s a smaller boutique resort with thoughtful details like Bvlgari bath amenities and rooms with private pools.

Hot Tip:

All-inclusive is a way of life in the Dominican Republic, especially in Punta Cana. These are our top picks for the best all-inclusive resorts in Punta Cana and the top all-inclusive resorts in the Dominican Republic.

2. Barbados

Barbados
Barbados was made for honeymooners. Image Credit: PublicDomainPictures via Pixabay

Honeymooners who want a more expansive experience — enjoying the ease of an all-inclusive while still getting off the resort to explore, discover, and try new things should head to Barbados. From the island’s relaxed eating and drinking culture (foodies will love the all-encompassing Bajan cuisine) to its wild beaches and cultural haunts in the capital of Bridgetown and second-largest hub, Speightstown, there’s lots to do and see.

Couples that want to explore the aforementioned Bajan cuisine, a myriad of flavors derived from Portuguese, Creole, African, Indian, Irish, Indigenous, and British foods, should look for an all-inclusive property under Elegant Hotels (Marriott) umbrella, as many offer a Dine Out program, where guests can eat at various restaurants outside of the hotel included in their all-inclusive rate.

Marriott Bonvoy enthusiasts will benefit the most from an all-inclusive honeymoon in Barbados, with a variety of Autograph Collection properties. Our top picks are The House by Elegant Hotels and Treasure Beach by Elegant Hotels, both adults-only, all-inclusive properties that offer romantic beachfront stays ideal for honeymooners.

3. Jamaica

Jamaica waterfall
Jamaica’s lush greenery and cascading waterfalls offer honeymooners alternatives to just heading to the beach. Image Credit: Andreas Volz via Pixabay

Go beyond just lazy beach days and also explore the great outdoors and listen to live reggae jams with a honeymoon in Jamaica. Although most destinations on the island are safe for visitors, staying in an all-inclusive resort can ease worries of safety for anxious travelers and ensure your honeymoon will feel safe and secure. Still, getting off the resort and exploring the island during daylight hours is easy.

Nature enthusiasts should plan to hike and explore Jamaica’s only national park, Blue and John Crow Mountains National Park, home to mist-shrouded mountains and cascading waterfalls. There’s also lots of wildlife to see, like yellow-billed parrots at the Rocklands Bird Sanctuary, as well as sea turtles and crocodiles in the island’s salt and fresh waters, respectively.

When it comes to lodging, Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall is our top pick — an adults-only, all-inclusive resort with accommodation options such as swim-up suites or butler suites. The island also has numerous Sandals locations perfect for honeymooners looking to get away from it all.

The 3 Best Underrated Honeymoon Destinations

Those looking to immerse themselves in local culture, discover pristine natural wonders, or simply honeymoon in less crowded, busy, or traditional destinations should head to a more underrated honeymoon destination. These are some of our top picks, from Europe to the Caribbean to right here in the U.S.

1. Greek Islands, Greece

Corfu Greece
Corfu is one of Greece’s greenest islands. Image Credit: 4355729 via Pixabay

Yes, we’ll give it to you: Santorini is one of the most popular honeymoon destinations out there. But there are more than 200 other inhabited Greek Islands out there just waiting to be explored, so if you’re looking to escape the mainstream tourism areas, skip Mykonos and Santorini and visit these spots instead.

Here are some of the islands you might consider:

  • Amorgos has exceptional walking trails and imposing mountain landscapes.
  • Corfu is one of the greenest islands, known for its olive trees and picturesque beaches.
  • Crete boasts of being one of the largest Greek islands, offering everything and anything honeymooners might want.
  • Folegadros has a cozy feel, complete with whitewashed Cycladic architecture.
  • Kefalonia is home to unique biodiversity and charming villages.
  • Milos offers secret beach coves and cool volcanic rock formations.
  • Naxos offers foodies some of Greece’s most delectable cuisine.
  • Paros is known for its beautiful beaches and clear, sparkling waters.
  • Rhodes is an UNESCO World Heritage Site with a rich and lengthy history.
  • Syros is famous for its remote beaches and quaint villages.

The options for accommodation are endless in Greece, no matter which island you choose. Marriott Bonvoy fans should consider the Blue Palace Elounda, a Luxury Collection Resort on the island of Crete, which sits upon a stretch of private, pebbly beach. Meanwhile, Hyatt SLH property Summer Senses Luxury Resort is a quiet haven with suites overlooking the Aegean Sea.

Hot Tip:

Planning a honeymoon in Greece? Check out how to fly to Greece on points and miles and determine the best times to visit Greece. We also have guides to boutique hotel options in Greece, the Greek islands, and Crete.

2. Dominica

The pool at the InterContinental Dominica
Dominica has lush tropical foliage and plenty of sun. Image Credit: InterContinental Dominica

Many honeymooners may not initially know about Dominica, a tiny island in the eastern Caribbean Sea about 1,400 miles south of Miami. The fertile island is rife with natural wonders, from thermal hot springs to cloud forests and verdant rainforests. It’s also ideal for whale watching, snorkeling, and scuba diving. And yes, amid all this greenery and marine life, you’ll find plenty of secluded sands to lounge on.

But you probably shouldn’t head to Dominica if you’re after all-inclusive resorts, endless nightlife, and cocktails galore. The polar opposite of a destination like Cancún, this is a destination for anyone who wants to get out into nature, enjoy tranquility and romance, and have an intimate adventure and beach vacation.

Those looking for the closest thing to a more traditional honeymoon resort should opt for the new InterContinental Dominica Cabrits Resort & Spa. Its stunning location overlooks Cabrits National Park’s volcanic sands and lush greenery. Meanwhile, eco-conscious travelers may prefer Jungle Bay Dominica, a rustic wellness resort surrounded by nature.

3. New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans Building
New Orleans’ French Quarter. Image Credit: Aya Salman via Unsplash

New Orleans is a popular destination for travelers, but it’s actually a perfect city for honeymooners. It’s truly got something for everyone — history, architecture, cuisine, and nightlife. With so many activities to share with your new partner, you’ll never get bored in NOLA.

The French Quarter’s haunted history makes it ideal for ghost tours and spooky experiences. From voodoo ceremonies to haunted theatres, couples can delight in fear and history together in this Louisiana hub.

Food is another shared adventure honeymooners can enjoy together. Indulge in low-brow muffuletta sandwiches, crawfish, and beignets. Or, opt for more high-brow gastronomic experiences like romantic outdoor courtyard dining at Bayona or traditional turtle soup at Commander’s Palace. Don’t forget to top off any meal with evening jazz at numerous venues throughout the city.

When it comes to accommodation, our vote is for the boutique property Dauphine Hotel, which offers up 18th-century history and and romantic porches. Or, if you have a stash of Marriott Bonvoy points, choose the Ritz-Carlton New Orleans, home to one of the most charming courtyards in the city (catch live jazz there).

The 3 Best Winter Honeymoon Destinations

One of the best ways to escape a cold and dreary winter is to plan your honeymoon during the winter months. Most of the northern U.S. and Europe is chilly, so it’s best to choose destinations ideal for soaking up the sun in warm temps. Here’s where to go.

1. Florida

Florida
The Florida Keys feel like a real escape from the daily grind. Image Credit: Keith Luke via Unsplash

For a honeymoon a little closer to home, Florida is one of the easiest winter honeymoon destinations to get to and has some of the warmest weather in the U.S. when many other areas of the country are cold and snowy.

Couples can choose from many different areas of Florida that are ideal for a honeymoon. We are partial to Key West for its welcoming vibes and Caribbean feel, but Miami, Tampa, Clearwater, and Palm Beach are also contenders. Even Orlando is an option if you want a Disney World honeymoon (though just know you’ll be surrounded by lots of children if you go that route).

For the ultimate privacy, consider staying at Sunset Key Cottages, set on its own 27-acre island just off Key West. Miami offers extensive hotel options bookable with points and miles and many boutique hotels, especially in South Beach, where smaller, art-deco properties line Ocean Drive. Even the Ritz-Carlton South Beach feels decidedly boutique, thanks to its compact size and art deco-inspired decor.

2. Bahamas

Rosewood Beach
Lounge on the Rosewood Beach at the Rosewood Baja Mar in the Bahamas. Image Credit: Rosewood

Visiting the Bahamas is fairly easy for U.S. travelers — it’s close to the U.S., but with hundreds of islands, it feels exotic yet still easily accessible. And honeymooners can have any type of trip they want there. Choose from a secluded, private island villa or a luxury, opulent hotel experience with lots to do and see.

A cruise through the Bahamas is always an option if you want to see it all from the water. If cruise ships aren’t your vibe, you can also take guided boat tours or even rent a boat for the day. Nassau is the most popular choice, and if you want to get away from it all, choose the Abacos, Great Exuma, or Harbour Island. To find out a bit more about the archipelago’s cultural legacy while enjoying what feels like a tropical paradise, visit the Clifton Heritage National Park, where you can birdwatch, picnic, snorkel, hike, and camp.

One of the most popular hotel choices is the Atlantis Paradise Island, home to 5 different hotels and endless activities. Our favorite for honeymooners is The Cove, the most sophisticated of the bunch, with an adults-only pool and a private beach. Or, stay at the SLS Baha Mar, home to an adults-only pool and a buzzing rooftop bar. Those looking for rejuvenation should choose the Rosewood Baha Mar, where couples can enjoy the Sense Rosewood Spa.

3. Hawaii

Kauai Hawaii
Kauai’s landscape is truly magnificent. Image Credit: Roberto Nickson via Unsplash

Hawaii is a top choice for honeymooners. Although it’s further away than many other U.S. honeymoon destinations, its far-removed location makes a Hawaiian honeymoon feel even more like an escape from reality. And, while it may seem foreign thanks to its otherwordly landscapes and unique culture, you won’t need a passport or to change currency to visit Hawaii.

While any of Hawaii’s islands are fit for a romantic getaway, Kauai is one of the best, thanks to its jaw-dropping scenery that’s actually best admired by boat or helicopter. The island feels (and is) just a little more off the beaten path and features some of the state’s most spectacular natural wonders: Na Pali Coast, Hanalei Valley, and Waimea Canyon. Maui is another island popular with honeymooners, and while travelers should avoid West Maui due to the aftermath of the devastating fires, the rest of the island is welcoming visitors with open arms.

Hawaiian honeymooners should stay at the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa. While not an adults-only property, couples can enjoy treatments at the Anara Spa or stroll the lush, landscaped hotel grounds. If you’d prefer an adults-only stay, the Relais & Châteaux property Hotel Wailea is known as one of the most romantic hotels in the world, thanks to its private hillside suites and unique designer birdcage bar and restaurant.

Hot Tip:

Honeymooning in Hawaii? Check out our top Hawaii resources, from the best beaches in Kauai, Maui, and Oahu to the best ways to fly to Hawaii with points and miles and the best points hotels in Hawaii.

The 3 Best Adventure Honeymoon Destinations

You might be looking for some extra thrills on your honeymoon — iconic hikes, one-of-a-kind adventures, or wildlife sightings, just to name a few. Certain destinations may have a little more adventure than others, so here’s where you should go for lots to do and see on your honeymoon.

1. California

Big Sur
Big Sur, California, is perfect for an adventure-inspired road trip. Image Credit: Spencer Davis via Unsplash

California has endless best honeymoon adventure destinations, from the LGBTQ-friendly Palm Springs to the dramatic landscapes of Big Sur, not to mention areas like Lake Tahoe, Yosemite, Catalina Island, and Napa Valley. Obviously, your interests will play a part in where you head in California for your honeymoon, and a road trip is an easy way to see more than one place.

Big Sur is one of our favorite Californian honeymoon spots, thanks to its dazzling mountain, forest, and beach scenery that leads to some pretty memorable hikes. The Big Sur Coast Highway is one of the most beautiful places in the U.S. for a honeymoon road trip, and the many state parks in the area mean you can get out into nature. Napa Valley is another favorite, at least if you consider extensive wine tasting an adventure. Besides sipping on all those Cabernets, honeymooners can hike, kayak, bike, or even take hot air balloon rides over the vineyards.

Hyatt properties seem to win for honeymooners here, with the adults-only Alila Napa Valley and Alila Ventana Big Sur offering couples the utmost luxury and relaxation. Our top choice is the Alila Ventana Big Sur, as it offers all-inclusive packages that cater to your every need, like picnic gear, use of hotel Volvos, and other amenities perfect for couples looking for a romantic escape.

2. Alaska

Denali National Park
Denali National Park is the largest national park in the U.S. Image Credit: David Mark via Pixabay

Whether you want to see the northern lights or trek alongside moose or even bears, Alaska is one of the most adventurous honeymoon destinations out there. One of the most far-flung destinations in the U.S., it’s worth going for at least a week to explore everything this unique state offers. And there’s always the option to book an Alaska cruise, too.

If you’re heading to Alaska for your honeymoon, you probably love the outdoors. And with some truly awe-inspiring national parks, plenty of flora and fauna can be discovered. Denali National Park features a massive 6 million acres of land, where visitors can dog sled, hike, rock climb, and see the highest peak in the U.S., Denali. Cruisers should lap through Glacier Bay National Park. Admire close to 40 glaciers in Kenai Fjords National Park, snap photos of brown bears in Katmai National Park and Preserve, or explore volcanoes in the largest national park in the U.S., Wrangell St. Elias National Park and Preserve.

Stillpoint Lodge is an ideal option for honeymooners looking for an all-inclusive Alaskan adventure, as it includes wildlife cruises, guided hikes, bear viewing, glacier visits, meals, adventure gear, and beyond. Soaring Eagle Lodge also offers special honeymoon packages, which include activities like sled dog rides, fishing, and kayaking, complete with oceanfront rooms.

3. Thailand

Treehouse Villa Koh Tao
Adventure awaits in Thailand — start by staying in a treehouse hotel. Image Credit: Treehouse Villa Koh Tao

While Thailand is known for its exotic islands and blissful white sands, the country is also perfect for adrenaline-pumping activities like jungle trekking, white-water rafting, ziplining, rock climbing, scuba diving, and so much more.

Chiang Mai in northern Thailand is one of the best destinations for getting out into the rainforest. Although the city is busy, featuring a massive night market and plenty of temples, the surroundings are dense and wooded, perfect for ziplining over the treetops, discovering hot springs, or off-roading with quads.

Meanwhile, some of the country’s remote islands, such as Koh Tao, Koh Lak, Koh Lanta, or the Similan Islands, are ideal for getting that PADI certification together or doing all sorts of dives, from beginner to advanced, including night diving.

The Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle in northern Thailand combines both romantic and luxurious honeymoon digs with an eco-friendly, one-of-a-kind adventurous glamping experience. Or, opt for a unique rainforest beachfront stay at the adults-only Treehouse Villas on the island of Koh Yao, where you can rest your head in your very own eco-friendly treehouse, complete with a private pool overlooking the sea.

The 2 Best Romantic Honeymoon Destinations

What’s the number one thing most couples want on their honeymoon? Romance! It may sound cheesy, but when else in your life are you going to take an entire vacation planned entirely around your shared love? You might as well lean in for your honeymoon by visiting one of these most romantic honeymoon destinations.

1. Paris, France

Paris
Paris is one of the most romantic destinations in Europe. Image Credit: Jean-Philippe Fourier via Unsplash

It wouldn’t be a honeymoon destination roundup without the City of Light on the list. Paris is a one-stop shop on your European honeymoon itinerary if you’re looking for not just romance but also cuisine, culture, and plenty of activities to do. One of the best honeymoon destinations in Europe, Paris is perfect for couples aiming for a traditionally romantic experience in the lap of luxury, as vacationing well in Paris isn’t cheap.

Even a stroll to the grocery store in Paris feels decidedly romantic, but some walks are better than others. We recommend meandering the Luxembourg Gardens, along the Seine, or by the trendy waterway Canal Saint-Martin. And you don’t have to head to Bordeaux to wine taste — visit Clos Montmartre, a winery in the 18th arrondissement owned by the city of Paris. Or, head to some of the city’s most romantic cultural haunts, like the charming, manicured gardens of the Rodin Museum or Cognacq-Jay, home to 18th-century art and artifacts.

Anyone with Marriott Bonvoy points should consider properties such as Prince de Galles, a Luxury Collection Hotel Paris, a stately property home to classic art deco rooms and a location close to the prestigious Champs-Elysées. Meanwhile, those enamored with the Eiffel Tower should opt for the Accor property Pullman Paris Tour Eiffel, which offers iconic, close-up views of the iron masterpiece.

Hot Tip:

Those red-eye flights to Europe can often wreak havoc on your sleep schedule, especially if you struggle to sleep on planes. However, Delta has launched a daytime flight between New York (JFK) and Paris (CDG) that may help you adjust better to your new time zone.

2. Italy

Amalfi Coast
The Amalfi Coast is one of the most romantic spots in Italy. Image Credit: denisasterbova via Pixabay

Italy is the ideal honeymoon choice for honeymooners who want it all — culture, cuisine, history, beaches, and so much more. You can visit year-round, and different areas of the country are best for certain types of honeymooners. Here are some of the places you might want to visit on your Italian honeymoon:

  • Budget travelers can explore off-the-beaten-path destinations like Modena, Matera, or Trentino.
  • Cultural enthusiasts need to go to Rome to see iconic attractions like the Colosseum and the Vatican.
  • Explorers should pick Sicily, home to local traditions, charming villages, and stunning beaches.
  • Foodies should head to Tuscany or Piedmont, both home to regional flavors and delicious wines.
  • Luxury travelers can enjoy the Amalfi Coast or Capri — pricier destinations with some of the country’s most beautiful clifftop ocean views.
  • Outdoor buffs can hike the Dolomites or the Italian Alps.
  • Romance fans will find Venice’s canals and Verona’s “Romeo and Juliet” history alluring.

Those with Hilton Honors points should stay at the Waldorf Astoria Rome, perched atop 15 acres of Italian hilltops overlooking the city of Rome below. Or, opt for Caruso, A Belmond Hotel on the Amalfi Coast, decked out in Italian frescoes with an infinity pool perched on a cliff. Venice honeymooners looking for privacy might pick the JW Marriott Venice Resort and Spa, located on its very own private island, just a quick boat ride away from central Venice.

The 2 Best Secluded Honeymoon Destinations

Part of escaping away on a honeymoon getaway means privacy to spend time as newlyweds. These are some of the most secluded honeymoon destinations where you can bond with your partner in a tranquil space that’s tucked away from the masses.

1. Maldives

The Maldives
The Maldives is a far-flung and exotic honeymoon destination. Image Credit: Jailam Rashad via Unsplash

If you need to take a seaplane to your destination, it’s probably private. The Maldives features hundreds of islands perfect for serene getaways in paradise. A honeymoon in the Maldives isn’t cheap and may take a while to get there, but you can save significantly if you have a large collection of hotel points you can use for accommodation. Plus, with standalone bungalows and overwater villas, guests can enjoy a feeling of being removed from everyone else, even if the resort they’re staying at is full.

Since you’ll probably be spending most of your time at the resort since many occupy their own private islands, choosing just the right one is probably the most important point when heading to the Maldives. Budget travelers may want to opt for a resort accessible by boat, as seaplane rides are expensive. And, while an all-inclusive rate may seem more expensive upfront, it may help you save later on, as food and drinks can be costly since everything must be boated or flown over to the islands.

When it comes to accommodation, it’s best to start by evaluating your stash of points, as there are plenty of Marriott, Hyatt, IHG, Hilton, and other points properties among the islands. Travelers heading to the Maldives should consider the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island (Hilton), a 16+ property with an incredible in-house reef and an underwater restaurant.

And the newness just keeps coming: Alila Kothaifaru Maldives (Hyatt), an all-pool-villa resort (some overwater, some beach), has just opened, a Mandarin Oriental Maldives is coming in 2025, and for those newly dating or even still single, set your sights on the Rosewood Ranfaru, set to open in 2027.

Hot Tip:

2. Arizona

Arizona
Arizona often feels peaceful and secluded. Image Credit: StockSnap via Pixabay

Arizona’s year-round sunshine, vast desert wilderness, and rich natural wonders are a call to travelers craving a quiet, peaceful honeymoon without too many other humans around. Destinations like Phoenix, Tucson, and Sedona all offer access to city delights like gastronomy and culture while still being close to the great outdoors for some privacy. And of course, the expanse of the Grand Canyon is one of the most impressive national parks in the U.S.

The state is perfect for hikers, bikers, rock climbers, bird watchers, and fans of the infinite desert landscape dotted with Saguaros and brush. But Arizona is also a spa and wellness destination for couples that want to relax and grow together as a couple.

Sedona visitors can stay at Hilton Sedona Bell Rock, encircled by those signature reddish rocks Sedona is known for. Miraval Arizona is set on the outskirts of Tucson and is an adults-only, wellness-inspired luxury resort part of the Hyatt portfolio. It offers all-inclusive plans and activities like beekeeping, sound healing, and spiritual drumming.

Hot Tip:

Need more Hilton Honors points? Consider the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card, which offers complimentary Hilton Diamond elite status and a large welcome offer. Or, with The Platinum Card® from American Express, you can earn Amex Membership Rewards points and then transfer them to Hilton at a 1:2 ratio (or more if there’s a bonus).

Final Thoughts

A honeymoon is a special trip to celebrate your love. Make it as memorable as possible by selecting just the right destination — a budget weekend hop to Las Vegas, a luxury, no-expense-spared trip to Italy, an easy, all-inclusive week in Mexico, or an exciting adventure in Thailand.

The information regarding the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

For rates and fees of The Platinum Card® from American Express, click here.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the best place for a honeymoon in the world?

The best place for a honeymoon is wherever you want to go! Choose a destination that fits your travel style, budget, and season of travel. Popular honeymoon destinations include Hawaii, the Maldives, Italy, Paris, Mexico, and many more.

What is the most visited honeymoon destination?

A 2022 study by Expedia, which polled over 1,500 couples, said that some of the most popular honeymoon destinations were St. Lucia, the Maldives, Paris, Florida, Spain, and Italy.

How many nights is the average honeymoon?

Usually, couples go on a honeymoon for about 7 days. Although the average length of a honeymoon is about a week, some couples take a long weekend, while others spend 10 days, 2 weeks, or even longer. When it comes to your honeymoon, choose the amount of time that best fits with your budget and lifestyle.

What is the most expensive country for a honeymoon?

One of the most expensive countries to visit for your honeymoon is the Maldives. Since it’s a remote set of islands in the Indian Ocean, it can be expensive to get and stay there. However, if you have airline miles and hotel points, you could have a more affordable vacation. Although some countries are more expensive than others, spending on a honeymoon depends greatly on where you stay, what you do, and if you use points and miles to help offset the cost.

Lori Zaino's image

About Lori Zaino

Lori is an intrepid traveler who loves creating itineraries that exude “luxe on a budget.” She’s written for CNN, NBC, The Infatuation, and more, and loves to muse about points-fueled trips to Sri Lanka, Sicily, and Myanmar.

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