Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, and of course, love is in the air! Dining by candlelight beneath the iconic Eiffel Tower. Weaving through a garden of cherry blossom trees. Lounging in the mist of Hawaiian waterfalls. Star gazing in the Rocky Mountains. Waking up to a quaint Bed and Breakfast in California’s wine country. These are just a handful of special moments, in some of the world’s most unique places that inspire us to fall in love—with our surroundings and the special people we share them with. Whether you’re planning a quick getaway with your partner or daydreaming of a distant excursion together, here are some of the most romantic places to put on your radar:
New York City, New York
Among the Big Apple’s famously glamorous spots is the Iris & B. Gerald Cantor Roof Garden, a 10,000-square-foot terrace perched atop the Metropolitan Museum of Art. With a bird’s eye view decorated in botany, the city’s skyline and iconic Central Park never looked better! Follow your dinner-for-two with a late night stroll through the city’s glittery lights, and take an elevator ride to the top of the Rockefeller for an equally breathtaking panorama.
The Maldives
This tropical archipelago in the Indian Ocean is undoubtedly paradise. With private bungalows strung along the white sand beaches and crystal seas, this set of islands feels like a slice of heaven. Its extensive white coral reefs and blue lagoons offer a mix of adventure and peace, perfect for lovers to explore. For a more upbeat experience, local fish markets, upscale restaurants, and funky shops are right around the corner!
Florence, Italy
Clichés exist for a reason. No list of romantic places could possibly exist without Florence—an Italian utopia, full of culture, history, beauty, and wonder. After a day of exploring museums, wandering the Giardino delle Rose garden, sipping cafe espressos, and slurping homemade spaghetti, be sure to catch sunset from the Piazzale Michelangelo and catch a gondola ride along the Arno River.
Sonoma, California
In the heart of California’s wine country, this town is made of romance. After all, what place with top-notch wines and stunning vineyards wouldn’t be? With locally sourced restaurants like The Girl & the Fig and award-winning hotel stays, it’s nearly impossible to not have a passionate date night in this rustic town. Because it’s located in proximity to countless other must-visit California hotspots, Sonoma is the perfect pit stop for a statewide, coastal journey!
Kauai, Hawaii
Aloha, romance! With secluded beaches, pounding waterfalls, and lavish mountains, Hawaii is a tropical wonderland. Hawaii’s least-developed island, Kauai allows you and your honey to enjoy the immaculate scenery with privacy. Go for adrenaline-pumping hikes high above the ocean and dive into secluded swimming holes. You won’t ever want to leave.
Kyoto, Japan
Famous for its vibrant cherry blossom trees, which bloom in the spring, Kyoto’s natural beauty inspires an appreciation for the present moment with those you love. The cherry blossom tree is a symbol in Japan, reminding people across the globe that time is precious and that we all experience seasons of growth. After a day zig-zagging through the pale pink blooms, explore the area’s historic temples, enjoy a plate of authentic sushi, and watch geisha dancers in the Gion district.
Stowe, Vermont
This quiet town is perfect for the outdoorsy couple who prefers casual campfires over tuxedo-attire dinners. Its charm is found at the Mount Mansfield ski basin, throughout its snow-topped forests, and in its locally sourced hole-in-the-wall restaurants. Stowe is truly the definition of “quaint,” offering cozy New England bed and breakfasts and breathtaking vistas at every turn.
Giverny, France
Within the famous artist Claude Monet’s Gardens, love comes alive. Located in northern France, it’s easy to see why the painter was attracted to this special place. Not only can you explore the home of Monet—where he was based from 1883 to 1926—but you can expand your French journey to other nearby areas, including Paris—a city undeniably known for romance.
Savannah, Georgia
The epitome of southern charm, Savannah offers spectacular lodging, local food, and ambience to its visitors. Stay at the Presidents’ Quarters Inn, a fabulous lodging facility that you’ll wish was your permanent home. With complimentary homemade breakfasts, plush linens, soothing bathtubs, and a great view of the Oglethorpe Square, your getaway couldn’t be more alluring. Be sure to go for a horse-drawn carriage ride, visit the city’s perfectly manicured parks, and take in the scenery of immaculate architecture covered in Spanish moss.
Santorini, Greece
It’s no wonder this Greecian city is now a top honeymoon hotspot. Atop a private terrace in Santorini—an island of volcanic calderas—one can watch the sun fall over the magical Aegean Sea and sip wine among tears of whitewashed buildings. Be sure to take the hike from Fira to Oia, relax at the Red Beach, embark on a winery tour, and explore the ancient ruins of Akrotiri.
There you have it: a list of 10 places for you and your lover to add to your bucket list. Whether it’s a tropical beach, a southern carriage ride, or a place booming with history and culture, love can be found. After all, love isn’t about the place you visit, but about the person you share it with.
