Could this be the year you're getting ready to propose? What better way to do it than in a destination where the scenery and atmosphere are bathed in romance? A moment of contemplation in one of the world's most beautiful bays, an escapade in a natural setting populated by an incredible biodiversity, whole afternoons lounging on a deckchair in front of a turquoise sea or toasting a sunset amidst vineyards... Does one of these scenarios appeal to you? Here are our top 15 most romantic destinations in the world.
1- Napa Valley, USA
judd Brotman - iStockphoto.com
After landing in San Francisco, we hop in a rental car and head for Napa Valley, one of the most beautiful places to see in the USA. This wine-growing region is sublime, with its lush green hills, endless vineyards and elegant estates. The estates await lovers for tastings and to discover the diversity of Californian wines. Between two nights in a hotel, a multitude of activities lend themselves to a romantic ambience, such as hot-air ballooning over the region, food and wine pairings, not forgetting a ride on the wine train. You'll travel through the valley in a vintage carriage, enjoying the local gastronomy and, of course, the wines.
Read also: 10 ideal destinations for a romantic weekend in Europe
2- Halong Bay, Vietnam
© lonsdale_007 - Shutterstock.com
This is one of the most beautiful places to see in Vietnam... Halong Bay is simply incredible. This is where you'll find a myriad of karst islands and islets bathed in emerald water. To make the most of the bay in a romantic atmosphere, start with a kayak trip between the various islets. Then a night on a junk, a traditional Asian boat, is an obvious choice for an unforgettable experience for two. For the rest of the trip, you'll take the time to exchange ideas and discover the fishing traditions and techniques of the fishermen living on floating villages, as well as to swim in the clear waters. And don't miss the chance to climb Mount Titov , with its breathtaking panoramic views over the bay. The perfect time to take the ring out? To help you prepare for this trip, take a look at our dedicated articles "Halong Bay in Vietnam: the practical guide to visiting it" and"Visiting Vietnam in 2 weeks: the best itinerary".
Read more: Where to go on honeymoon? The 25 best honeymoon destinations
3- Bali, Indonesia
Rice paddies in Ubud© © K. Arjana - Shutterstock.com
Bali is a little paradise on earth. The Island of the Gods has everything you need for a perfect romance, with incredibly beautiful landscapes of volcanoes, lush forests, rice paddies and dreamy beaches. Many of the hotels, with their elegant rooms, infinity pools, spas and massages, offer the perfect cocoon in which to coo. During your stay, don't forget to enjoy the natural surroundings, as well as visiting Bali's must-see temples, such as Tanah Lot and Ulun Danu, with their remarkable locations. Ubud is another must. For its traditional dance shows, yoga classes and restaurants where you can discover the subtleties of Balinese cuisine. Definitely one of the most beautiful places to visit in Indonesia!
4- Saint Lucia, Caribbean
Saint Lucia, Marigot Bay© © SpVVK - iStockphoto.com
The mere mention of the name Caribbean brings stars to your eyes. Located south of Martinique, Saint Lucia is a small English-speaking state that lends itself perfectly to a romantic getaway. The first thing to do once you've settled into your hotel is hire a boat to explore the translucent waters, home to an incredible array of marine life. Need some privacy for a stroll? The east coast lends itself perfectly to this, with its jagged coastline and cliffs plunging into the turquoise sea. After strolls through the rainforest leading to such treasures as Diamant Falls, there's nothing like a moment at Anse Chastanet for sunbathing, swimming and snorkeling. In Marigot Bay, where several hotels are located, you can take a leisurely stroll along the marina overlooking the green hills. Boat trips are also available for dolphin-watching in the nature reserve.
5- Kyoto, Japan
sean Pavone - Shutterstock.com
Why not visit the Land of the Rising Sun for a romantic getaway? Japan's ancient capital boasts a multitude of places that make you want to declare your love. Starting with the temples and imperial villas surrounded by sublime gardens. The Golden Pavilion temple and the Shugaku-in Villa are pure masterpieces in this field. For other moments, head for the streets of Kiyomizu-michi, Sannenzaka or Ninenzaka to marvel at traditional wooden houses, Japanese inscriptions and restaurants where you can stop to sample excellent Japanese cuisine. Those who prefer to visit Kyoto in spring will have the chance to follow the Philosopher's Path, one of the must-sees in Kyoto, andexchange kisses under the magnificent cherry blossoms.
Read more: Visiting Japan in 15 days: the best itinerary to follow
6- Kruger National Park, South Africa
simoneemanphoto - stock.adobe.com
For couples with an adventurous spirit, there's nothing like South Africa and the Kruger National Park, one of the most beautiful safari destinations in the world The ultimate safari destination, the Kruger's charm begins the moment you set foot in a comfortable lodge surrounded by nature. Some structures offer breathtaking views of the savannah in one of South Africa's most beautiful locations. During the day, you can look forward to expeditions that allow you to cross paths with elephants, lions, zebras, rhinoceroses and buffalo, as well as a wide variety of birds. Other activities include hiking, mountain biking and golf sessions, all of which are great opportunities to marvel, laugh and seal your love.
Read more: Visiting South Africa in 15 days: the best itinerary to follow
7- Fez, Morocco
dietwalther - Fotolia
If there's one accommodation that lends itself perfectly to a romantic vacation anywhere in the world, it's the Moroccan riad! These traditional houses with divinely decorated rooms and patios or interior gardens offer a setting that takes us far away from everyday concerns. In Fez, a city with a rich history, a stroll through the medina is a truly special experience. Preserved and authentic, it's home to medersas, mausoleums and souks where you'll enjoy strolling. Among the must-sees in Fès, take the time to observe the metalworkers, before sitting down to a mint tea on the Place Seffarine. Contemplating the exteriors of the Royal Palace and the Karaouiyne Mosque, dining in love over succulent Moroccan cuisine , Fès has much to offer lovers of the world.
Read also: What to do in Morocco The 15 most beautiful places to see and visit
8- Monteverde, Costa Rica
The Cloud Forest© © Simon Dannhauer - Shutterstock.com
With its incredible natural beauty, Costa Rica welcomes ecologically-minded lovers. The country is a pioneer in ecotourism. Monteverde, in the north-west of the country, is a great place to take in the scenery for two. Why not opt for glamping, for example, and sleep in a yurt lost amid the lush vegetation ? During the day, you can explore The Cloud Forest, where you'll feel as if you're flirting with mountain peaks and clouds. At Selvatura Park, the presence of suspension bridges above the rainforest is an opportunity to hold hands. Now's the time to try a zip-line crossing among the rich flora and fauna. And don't miss the sunset at Monteverde, one of Costa Rica's not-to-be-missed activities!
Read more: The 5 best tours to discover Costa Rica
9- Cappadocia, Turkey
mikhail Sotnikov - iStockphoto.com
Right in the middle of Anatolia, Cappadocia is a region unique in the world and also one of the most beautiful places to see in Turkey. Here you'll discover veritable natural works of art, formed by the presence of volcanoes. Proof that it's an ideal destination for a romantic vacation is the presence of the Valley of Love. It's home to numerous fairy chimneys, rock formations that are simply out of this world. Then, of course, there are the troglodyte villages of Göreme and Uçhisar. Then, on another day, head for the pink and red valleys, where the rock formations give you the feeling of having left planet Earth for a few moments. From charming hotels to hot-air ballooning, Cappadocia is a destination that can only make you fall in love. Wondering what to do in Cappadocia? Discover our selection of 16 must-do activities.
Read also: Where to go for Valentine's Day? Top 14 most romantic destinations
10- Udaipur, India
City Palace in Udaipur© © takepicsforfun - Shutterstock.com
A city in the state of Rajasthan, Udaipur lends itself perfectly to a romantic vacation in northern India. A stroll through the city, surrounded by lakes, reveals architectural treasures, including Rajput-style palaces. The City Palace is a marvel. There's nothing like a boat trip on Lake Pichola to discover the city in a different, calm and friendly way. You can also take to the skies aboard one of the red gondolas. Unforgettable panoramas and the urge to hug guaranteed! History-loving couples should head to the Ahar Museum to admire an extraordinary collection of funerary and memorial monuments. Shlipgram, the artisans' village, is another must-see for souvenirs, folk dances and a romantic camel ride to one of Rajasthan's most beautiful spots.
Read also: What to do and see in India The 22 most beautiful places to see
12. Venice, a unique place in the world!
At the crossroads of East and West, built on 118 islets and 400 bridges, Venice is a unique place in the world whose myth has spanned the centuries. A weekend is all it takes to discover its narrow streets (calli) and squares (campi), its magnificent frescoed churches, and its canals where the vaporetti glide peacefully by. If you plan to visit at the end of February, you'll be able to attend one of the world's most famous carnivals. For a complete view of the city, crossing the Grand Canal is a must. This 4 km-long waterway is Venice's main thoroughfare, a concentration of beauty and wealth. Along the way, you can admire the most beautiful Venetian palaces (Ca' d'Oro, Ca' Pesaro, Ca' Rezzonico), emblematic sites (Rialto Bridge, Academy, Peggy-Guggenheim Museum) and end up in Piazza San Marco with its sumptuous basilica. To make the most of the square, sit down on the terrace of a historic Venetian café. Sunsets over the lagoon, accompanied by a prosecco (local sparkling white wine), are simply bewitching....
Read more: What to do and see in Venice in 3 days? Itinerary tips
13. Annecy, the "Venice of the Alps
Nicknamed the "Venice of the Alps", Annecy has plenty of charm and appeal for lovers. It offers an idyllic setting for a romantic weekend. In the old town, the colorful houses lining the canals create a timeless atmosphere. Annecy also boasts the Pont des Amours, located between the Jardins de l'Europe and the Esplanade du Pâquier, an ideal spot to exchange a kiss. The lake, with its crystal-clear waters, invites long walks or bike rides, and a boat trip is a must-do in Annecy in fine weather. For a romantic getaway, there's nothing like escaping to the surrounding mountains and stopping at the most beautiful viewpoints to embrace and admire the scenery of one of the most beautiful destinations for a romantic weekend in France.
See also: Weekend in Annecy: what to see in 2 or 3 days?
14. Verona, city of Romeo and Juliet
Would you like to experience Italian Dolce Vita for two ? Then head for Verona, a charming town immortalized by Shakespeare in his famous "Romeo and Juliet". Do you have the song from the musical in mind? Perfect, let's get started! For lovers of architecture, Verona is a must-see destination in northern Italy. Its impressive arenas bear witness to a glorious past and never fail to amaze visitors. Nestled in the heart of a magnificent region, Verona offers a multitude of activities for couples to enjoy. Its cobbled streets conceal hidden treasures around every corner, enough to make you dream...
Read more : What to do and see in Verona in 2 or 3 days? Itinerary tips
15. Mauritius
Located near Madagascar, Mauritius is a popular destination for romantic getaways. Its palm-fringed white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, lush mountains and waterfalls create an atmosphere conducive to romance. A trip to Mauritius is always unique. Among the must-do activities on the island, you'll find heavenly beaches and the chance to recharge your batteries in the glorious sunshine. It's also the perfect opportunity to enjoy water sports and admire the beauty of the lagoons. The island's lush nature and varied landscapes are perfect for hiking and discovering the flora and fauna. While the south is wilder and more unspoilt, the north is full of lively spots. All the elements are in place for an idyllic stay on this pearl of the Indian Ocean.
Read more: Top 10 reasons to vacation in Mauritius this year!
Are you tempted? Take a look at our airfares right now and book without delay !
