The 16 Most Romantic Travel Destinations in the World

They say novelty breeds romance, and that’s exactly what you’ll find at some of the most romantic destinations in the world.

New places, unfamiliar corners of the globe, and jet-setting vacations can take you to idyllic places that reignite the spark for your partner.

So, step up your travel game and let the sparks fly at these 16 romantic destinations.

Is it the City of Love or the City of Lights? It could be both, as you and your partner spend a romantic day sipping wine in a classic cafe before ending your evening at the sparkling Eiffel Tower.

There is no city more known for romance in the entire world.

Tulum’s beaches are known for being among the most luxurious and romantic in the world.

The city is filled with artist studios and yoga on the beach. That makes it the perfect place to decompress and relax on a serene weekend with your partner.

Find “old world” European charm and romance in North America when you visit quaint Quebec City.

This French-Canadian destination feels as if it’s straight out of a storybook. If you stay at the iconic Château Frontenac, you’ll feel as if you’re royalty for a weekend. Dine on steak frites and get lost walking down historic streets.

Food, water, and charming streets create a recipe for romance in Charleston, South Carolina.

Pastel-colored homes dot the historic district, where you can stroll hand-in-hand down sidewalks centuries of lovers have walked before.

Stay at one of the historic inns downtown and spend your evenings hopping from one candlelit restaurant to the next.

Japan’s incredible minimalist, calming architecture is on full display in the city of Kyoto, which feels a world away from the buzz of Tokyo.

Spend time with your partner, immersing yourself in the relaxation of the teahouse experience, walking through pristine gardens, and finding serenity in the scenery.

Ask anyone who has been to Hawaii to describe the state, and they’ll tell you it is paradise.

There is a reason the islands are perennially popular with honeymooners — there’s nothing more romantic than relaxing on pristine beaches with mountains and lush greenery in the background.

Honolulu is the biggest city, but if you are looking for a more sedate experience, consider Kauai or one of the quieter parts of the other islands.

There is nowhere you’ll feel more completely surrounded by sea than in the Maldives, where there are deep turquoise oceans, vast skies, and incredible fiery sunsets as far as the eye can see.

Visit the capital city, Male, which is the most populous city in the Maldives. Stay in one of the over-the-water bungalows for a once-in-a-lifetime experience that is sure to spark romance.

If you prefer to find romance in the great outdoors, head to Big Sur. You’ll marvel at the scale of the redwood forest and stand in awe of the power of the Pacific Ocean and its rocky coast. 

You could hike for miles without seeing anyone else, feeling like you and your partner are the only two people in the world.

Want a romantic meal? Scoot over to nearby Carmel-by-the-Sea, a charming and romantic town.

People go to Bali for a deeper, more spiritual experience. Is there any better way to connect with your partner?

You will find stunning beaches that haven’t yet been touched by resorts, lush forests, and remote places to stay and find romance.

Everybody can conjure up the iconic image of two lovers floating down the canals in Venice with a gondola captain crooning ballads. It’s one of the most romantic scenes in history.

Anyone who’s been to Venice would agree that the reality often lives up to that dreamy vision. Spend your days exploring historic streets, drinking Italian wine, and indulging in delicious pasta dishes.

South America’s night scene is known for being sultry, and Buenos Aires lives up to that reputation.

People here love to get dressed up and enjoy the finer things in life. Dance the night away with your partner to tango beats, or settle in for an indulgent evening of red wine and mouth-watering Argentinian steak.

The cobblestone streets, vibrant buildings, and historic architecture of San Miguel de Allende make it one of the most romantic cities in Mexico — and a far cry from the coastal resorts that many are used to.

This mountain town is known for its vibrant art and incredible culture. It’s the perfect romantic balance between exploration and relaxation.

While nearly all Caribbean islands offer romance for those who love to relax on the beach with their sweetheart, St. Barts is a favorite of honeymooners.

This Caribbean island has a European flair. Its white-sand beaches and reputation as a celebrity favorite also give it a romantic allure.

Savannah’s Spanish moss-covered squares offer a lush respite in this steamy Southern city, a favorite of those looking for a romantic getaway.

There’s history, incredible food, art, and literature, all within a walkable downtown. Stroll along the port city’s streets with your forever crush.

Sometimes, romance-seekers look for relaxation. Other times, they want the sights, sounds, and smells of the big city.

Marrakech is a vibrant collage of color, music, and incredible food, where you can spend days experiencing the stories of a city with a storied history. There are also incredible hotels that offer a relaxing retreat at the end of a busy day.

The glittering turquoise waters of the Côte d’Azur have inspired writers and artists for generations, and they also draw in couples looking to discover the same magic and romance today.

From historic cities set along stunning cliffs to seaside restaurants where you can watch the sunset, this is one of the most idyllic destinations on the globe.

Whether you book a trip to Côte d’Azur or any other spot on this list, trim some of your costs by paying for the trip with one of the best cash back credit cards.

Remember, romance isn't confined to exotic locales. It thrives in the shared spaces of exploration and discovery, even within your own backyard.

So, grab your best travel credit cards, pack your bags, and let the magic of new experiences reignite the spark, no matter the destination.