The 50 Best Honeymoon Destinations For 2023

Brightly coloured villas tumbling down cliffs into azure seas – The Amalfi Coast is one of the most breath-takingly beautiful areas of Italy. It’s a really romantic option for a honeymoon, and is great for couples who want a bit of glamour and the sort of buzz you don’t find in the countryside, but without the heat and crowds of cities like Venice.

Make sure you stop off in Amalfi, Positano, Sorrento and Ravello, and take a boat ride to the seriously chic island of Capri. The food in this part of the Italy is to die for, so pack roomy clothes for all of those delicious pizzas washed down with an Aperol Spritz or three. Five-star Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria is a special place to stay and even has its own cliffside lift down to the port.

If you want to stay closer to home, jump in your car and head south west to one of the prettiest parts of the UK, Cornwall. Pray for good weather because the beaches here are second to none and you can spend your days surfing or hiking along the cliffs to work off all the clotted cream and fudge you’ll be eating.

There are loads of pretty villages and seaside towns to explore and hundreds of hotels. We love adults-only The Scarlet for its eco-credentials and amazing views. There’s also a newly opened The Pig Hotel at Harlyn Bay and plenty of self-catering options with companies like Latitude 50.

Have you got at least a few weeks annual leave to play with? Then head half way around the world and really switch off on a honeymoon adventure down under.

Australia is a really diverse honeymoon destination, with so many different experiences depending on what you fancy. There’s everything from cosmopolitan cities like Sydney and Melbourne, vineyards, and island idylls to the desert of Alice Springs and adventure and beaches aplenty along the Gold Coast.

There’s a good reason The Maldives comes top of the best honeymoon destinations list year after year. It is simply out of this world. Imagine the most idyllic desert island – all swaying palm trees, white sand beaches and crystal clear turquoise seas and then make it tens times more beautiful – that’s The Maldives.

This Indian Ocean idyll has a resort for every type of honeymooner, from laid-back no shoes islands like Mirihi and Kanuhura to more glitzy resorts with infinity pools and chic restaurants like Conrad Rangali, Gili Lankanfushi and Velaa Private Island. For the ultimate in romance though, it has to be Baros (eight times winner of the world’s most romantic resort!).

For more information, read our Ultimate Maldives Honeymoon Guide

The Seychelles is a honeymoon classic thanks to its white sand beaches, Indian Ocean location and fabulous weather. It’s a little more dramatic and mountainous than The Maldives, with larger islands, incredible rock formations and a lot more wildlife, like giant tortoises and incredible marine life.

The resorts are often nestled privately on the islands, sometimes spilling down the cliffs, with incredible views. When you’re not sunbathing, head into the lush rainforests to see colourful birds and a huge array of tropical trees, or spend your days making the most of the clear waters enjoying water sports, snorkelling, and SCUBA diving. Our pick of the resorts are Hilton Seychelles Labriz and Six Senses Zil Pasyon.

Forget what you’ve heard about Bali from any of your backpacker friends, because if you steer clear of Kuta, it can be one of the most romantic and memorable choices for a honeymoon. The perfect pairing for a honeymoon is Ubud in the centre of the island with the beaches of Jimbaran or Seminyak in the south.

Bali quite literally has it all. UNESCO World Heritage sites, magical temples, a rich culture, vibrant market towns, a fascinating and welcoming Hindu religion, stunning fields of rice paddies and volcanoes to the north as well as pretty beaches to the south. You don’t have to compromise on anything here – enjoy the cultural delights and tropical rainforest in Ubud at a romantic and one-of-a-kind hotel like Four Seasons Sayan, before relaxing in the sun at The Legian – five-star luxury right on the beach.

For more information, check out our Bali Honeymoon Guide

As honeymoon destinations go, you can’t get much better than St Lucia. This Caribbean island has a distinct personality, a charming mix of French and British influences and the scenery is some of the best in the entire Caribbean. As well as white sand beaches, there’s a huge area of rainforest, the awe-inspiring Piton Mountains, and plenty of pretty towns and villages to visit.

A twin-centre trip is a good idea here, with a stop in the far north at a charming and welcoming hotel like Cap Maison, before driving down south to see those Pitons from dawn til dusk from the balcony of your luxury cottage at Viceroy Sugar Beach.

For classic Caribbean, you can’t go wrong with fun-loving Antigua. There are an incredible 365 beaches on this island, one for every day of the year. Antigua as a honeymoon destination has more to offer than just white sands and azure seas.

There’s the chance to explore the rainforest, enjoy some of the best diving in the world and visit cultural sights and towns. There are so many incredible hotels to choose from, but for romance look no further than Carlisle Bay, Curtain Bluff and Blue Waters Resort and Spa.

Couples looking for far flung adventures without any crowds should have New Zealand at the top of their honeymoon hotlist. Like Australia this distant land has a lot to offer, from jaw dropping scenery and pristine beaches to buzzing cities and outdoors adventures.

You’ll be heading to this part of the world for peace and tranquility and you’ll find that at some of these world class hotels: Huka Lodge, Eagles Nest and Hapuku Lodge and Treehouses.

The Greek Islands are pure honeymoon heaven and there are so many to choose from to suit any honeymoon style. If you’re after privacy and peace and quiet, opt for a smaller, lesser known island like Syros, Milos and Paxos.

If you’re after five-star hotels and stunning sunsets Santorini should be your top pick or the nearby island of Mykonos. In Santorini you can stay in a unique and instagram-worthy clifftop cave hotel like Grace Hotel or Santo Maris Oia Luxury Suites & Spa, where the white rock contrasts in exquisite style with the bright blue skies and sea below.

Mexico has an awful lot going for it when it comes to honeymoons – incredible culture with its ancient Mayan ruins, a picture-perfect coastline, rainforest and exciting towns. Head away from the crowds of Cancun and enjoy this magical country’s most beautiful spots: The Riviera Maya and Tulum on The Yucatan Peninsula, where you can find culture and coastline in equal measure (stand out honeymoon hotels include Chablé Resort & Spa and Hotel Esencia); and on the other side of the country overlooking the Pacific Ocean you’ll find old towns like Puerto Vallarta and charming luxury hotels like Casa Velas.

Honeymooners looking for adventure and a travel experience like no other should consider a trip to Japan for their post-wedding getaway. While you might not get a chance to sit on a beach and sun yourself, Japan is fabulous for couples who want to explore a different culture and make memories they’ll never forget.

A trip to Japan should include multiple stops to really get a sense of the country – from buzzing and cosmopolitan Tokyo, you can head west and take in the cultural delights of Kyoto, Mount Fuji, Osaka and Hiroshima. You can also consider a ski trip to Niseko or a wildlife adventure in the north.

Long-haul not for you, but still after an exotic escape to a country with a completely different culture to your own? How about Turkey, which is a short plane ride away, but has a rich culture and one of the most beautiful coastlines you’ll come across. Turkey’s Turquoise Coast is the place to head for these stunning sea views and sunsets, plus plenty of luxury hotels like D Maris Bay and boutique hotel, Hotel Villa Mahal.

If you love Cornwall but want better weather on your honeymoon, then Île de Ré off the coast of West France should be high up on your list of potential honeymoon destinations. This quaint island, reached by a bridge from the mainland has all the charm of Cornwall, but with a wonderful laid-back French vibe. The many small villages and towns are peppered with candy-coloured townhouses and the marinas are full of stylish yachts.

The beaches to the north are rustic and wild, and have vast expanses of soft, golden sand. Everywhere you turn you’ll find pavement bistros serving fine French fare and you can spend your days cycling round to various vineyards for wine tasting. Our pick of the romantic hotels? Hotel de Toiras or Villa Clarisse in Saint-Martin-de-Ré.

Can’t decide between beach time or a wildlife experience? Combine the two in one unique country in Costa Rica. With its Caribbean and Pacific Ocean coastlines you can enjoy a traditional beach honeymoon at a hotel like Andaz Costa Rica Resort. Then head into the cloud forest, hot springs and rainforest to discover one-of-a-kind creatures like sloths and quetzal birds, staying at a luxury lodge or hotel like Finca Rosa Blanca or Tortuga Lodge & Gardens.

If you’re not bothered about 30 degree heat and sunbathing, but prefer an adventure in the wilds then Scotland’s Highlands or islands could be one of the best honeymoon destinations for you. The scenery is dramatic and awesome and there’s so much to do if you’re outdoorsy types.

You could pair the great outdoors with a visit to Edinburgh too, which is full of fabulous restaurants and smart hotels and spas. The Fife Arms is in an idyllic spot and is a cosy and exquisitely decorated place to rest after the day’s activities.

Acre upon acre of fragrant lavender fields, traditional towns perched on top of hills and a super yacht and five-star hotel-studded coastline… Provence in France is one of the most romantic choices for a honeymoon. Spend some time in the beautiful countryside with jaw dropping views at a romantic hotel like Chateau St Martin in Vence and then pick from the many wonderful towns on the coast – Nice, St Tropez, Cannes or Antibes, where you can mix with A Listers at the incredible Hotel du Cap Eden Roc.

Didn’t get round to visiting Thailand on your gap year? Or want to revisit this country in more luxurious style? Thailand is the perfect place for couples looking for both luxury beach resorts and some culture.

Start your stay with beach time, spa treatments and haute cuisine on one of the romantic islands like Koh Samui, Krabi and Phuket (our top pick here is the elegant and quiet Anantara Layan Phuket Resort where the huge rooms come complete with a private plunge pool and garden). Then head inland for some capital city culture in Bangkok or further north to visit temples and walk with elephants at a wonderfully private and exotic resort like Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort, which has the most impressive award winning infinity pool you’ll ever see.

No, not the American state, but Georgia in Europe. It may sound like a rather rogue choice, but Georgia is an in-the-know travel-lovers’ dream, because it has so much to offer, but is still relatively off the beaten path and undiscovered by tourists.

The foodie scene here is particularly vibrant and you’ll be amazed by the quality of the wines. Then there are the pretty towns, awesome mountains where you can ski, miles of picturesque countryside and even a thriving beach resort at Batumi. In Tbilisi, you’ll find modern design hotels for incredible prices.

It’s hard to know which of South America’s countries to choose for a honeymoon as they all have something wonderful to offer. If it’s jaw dropping landscapes and vibrant cities you’re after though, Argentina is the perfect place.

Of course, there’s the capital city of Buenos Aires for fabulous food, buzzing street scenes and tango, but if you’re after a little more tranquility head south to the natural beauty of Patagonia to experience the gaucho culture, whale watching and spectacular wildlife. Don’t forget the vineyards of Mendoza or the incredible Iguazu Falls either though! Romantic hotels include Alvear Palace, Awasi Iguazu and EOLO.

As city honeymoon destinations go, you can’t get much more romantic than Paris. Whether you’ve been many times before and fallen in love with the city or are planning a visit for the first time, there’s plenty to keep you busy.

Visit the key sights – the Eiffel Tower, Sacre Coeur, The Louvre, Arc de Triomphe etc or you can just see where the city takes you, discovering cute little corners and quaint districts with pavement cafes aplenty. Paris has a huge range of hotels to choose from, from the very high end Le Bristol and Plaza Athenée to boutique and more affordable options like The Hoxton, Le Pigalle, Mama Shelter and Hotel Jeanne d’Arc.

Bhutan might not be the typical country you’d expect to see on a list of best honeymoon destinations but this mysterious and off the beaten track Asian country has a lot to offer. This Himalayan kingdom is the place to head if you’re after adventure and aren’t afraid of hiking through mountains.

Your reward will be views of the world famous Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang) and incredible seclusion. Bhutan isn’t without its share of amazing places to stay on honeymoon either. We’d suggest mixing trekking, culture and spa treatments at luxury resort Six Senses Thimphu.

French Polynesia is the perfect honeymoon destination for beach lovers. It is perhaps the most idyllic spot on earth where palm-fringed islands meet turquoise lagoons that are so clear you won’t believe your eyes.

There are lots of different parts of this year round island nation to choose from, but for walks along the beach that will blow you away and world famous views of Mount Otemanu, it has to be beautiful Bora Bora. This island has lots of luxury hotels to choose from, but we love St Regis Bora Bora with its private beach and overwater villas for guaranteed honeymoon heaven.

California’s Big Sur is a honeymoon destination and a half. If you’ve always dreamed of doing an American road trip, then avoid the clichéd Route 66 and head west for spectacular natural beauty, delightful beaches and stunning state parks.

Include a city stop at each end too, travelling from San Francisco to Los Angeles. There are some exquisite places to stay in this part of the world. For an unforgettable honeymoon book in to Post Ranch Inn or Ventana Big Sur.

A safari can be the most magical choice for a honeymoon and is a chance to share something unique together as newlyweds. Botswana is the creme de la creme of the African nations for safaris. It might not be as famous as Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park or The Maasai Mara in Kenya, but it is world class in its own right.

Choose between Chobe National Park, Kalahari and the Okavango Delta and you’ll see the wildlife wonders of your dreams. The brilliant thing about Botswana is that you’ll have the animal encounters to yourselves as the camps, like Jao Camp and andBeyond Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge are small and private and there are limits to how many vehicles can be in each area.

There are some real undiscovered gems in Europe that are perfect for couples looking for a close-to-home honeymoon full of adventure and new experiences. Montenegro is one of these countries, where you’ll find incredible landscapes, adrenaline-fuelled activities, historic towns and a stunning coastline. The one thing you won’t find is hoards of tourists, so this little idyll can be all yours.

Montenegro feels like its neighbour Croatia, but is a quieter, more off the beaten track option. There are still plenty of luxury resorts to choose from though, including the unique, wow-factor Aman Sveti Stefan and the smart, more affordable waterside idyll of Regent Porto Montenegro.

Portugal has something for every type of honeymoon from hotels with a golf course and the stunning wine region of the Douro Valley, to buzzing and culture-filled Lisbon and the beautiful beaches of the Algarve. Take your time moving from one idyllic spot to the next or pick one and luxuriate in a week of relaxation and indulging whatever your passion, be it golf, sunbathing, wine or culture. Some of our favourite honeymoon resorts include The Yeatman in Porto, Vila Vita Parc in the Algarve, and The One Palácio da Anunciada in Lisbon.

Hop across the Irish Sea for your honeymoon and you won’t be disappointed. Ireland may not have guaranteed sunny weather, but what it lacks in the sun department it more than makes up for in natural beauty.

The great thing about Ireland is its size, meaning you can incorporate a city break in Dublin with a trip to the coast and the countryside, all within a week and without spending all your time travelling. Dublin’s boutique The Dylan Hotel is a chic place to start, before taking in the romantic fairytale delights of Ashford Castle and Cork’s Inchydoney Lodge & Spa.

Another adventurous option couples might want to consider if lying on a beach all day isn’t for them is Canada and more specifically, British Columbia, arguably one of the best honeymoon destinations in North America. In winter BC turns into a winter wonderland and is amazing for skiing (Whistler is a must for keen skiers) and winter sports like sledging, horse sleigh rides and ice skating.

In summer the weather is stunning and you can enjoy the very best of the great outdoors with hiking, biking, fishing and sailing. Whale-watching off Vancouver Island is a popular honeymoon activity, while a stop in foodie paradise Vancouver will finish off a Canadian honeymoon to perfection. Standout places to stay include Sonora Resort, Pacific Sands Beach Resort and Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise.

Hawaii needs little introduction as one of the best honeymoon destinations – white sand beaches, an assortment of amazing volcanic islands, palm trees galore, wonderful undersea wildlife and an incredibly happy, welcoming culture. Enjoy everything the 50th state has to offer from a luxury beachside resort like Halekulani, the budget-friendly Surfjack and Four Seasons Resort Hualalai.

Spain is one of the best honeymoon destinations for Brits because it’s only a short flight away, but has so much to offer – brilliant weather, loads of beaches, a delicious cuisine and historic towns to explore. Think about what you want from a honeymoon and there will be an option for you on the mainland.

For glamour, super yachts, beach clubs and shopping, Marbella should be top of the list, staying at honeymoon haven, Puente Romano Beach Resort. In the northern Basque region San Sebastian is a mecca for foodies with some of the best restaurants in the country. While culture seeking couples can’t go wrong with a city break in Madrid, Barcelona, Granada or Seville.

Cumbria has some of the UK’s best Michelin starred restaurants, so a honeymoon in the Lake District can include long hikes through the stunning fells followed by gastronomic delights every evening. Add some much-needed post-wedding spa time into your stay too, by basing yourself at the heavenly Gilpin Hotel and Lake House, which has the most incredible spa suites. For something a little more budget-friendly try The Daffodil Hotel or for a really sexy option it has to be The Brimstone.

Iceland has been the destination to visit for a while now, but you’ll need deep pockets – it’s one of the most expensive countries in the world. Don’t let that put you off though, just keep your honeymoon a little shorter and splash out on a few days of once in a life time experiences including seeing the Northern Lights and bathing in the warm waters of the blue lagoon. The Retreat at Blue Lagoon is a romantic and unique option.

You’ll feel like you’re honeymooning in a Ralph Lauren advert the whole time if you choose Nantucket. This is one of the best honeymoon destinations in the US because its seriously pretty, especially if you visit in autumn, and is known for its brilliant cuisine. We recommend The White Elephant and The Wauwinet for the best views and a classic Nantucket experience.

Morocco is a mystic and magical land full of wondrous sights, sounds and smells. Marrakesh is one of the best honeymoon destinations in the country because of its atmospheric medina and the chance to stay in a chic riad. Luxurious service and interiors are guaranteed at Royal Mansour or La Mamounia. For something more affordable try a smaller boutique riad like Riad 42.

Croatia is one of the best honeymoon destinations for couples who can’t decide between sunbathing and a city break. With ancient walled towns and an island-speckled sapphire sea coastline, you can do both to your heart’s content. And that’s before you consider the mountains inland and all the museums and palaces to be discovered. Bag yourself a room with a view at a clifftop hotel like Hotel Bellevue Dubrovnik or Valamar Isabella Island Resort.

Got plenty of annual leave to play with? Then get away from it all and head to an island paradise in the middle of nowhere. Fiji is all about barefoot bliss and long days spent doing little more than sunbathing and swimming. Sounds like heaven? Book yourself into the romantic Likuliku Lagoon Resort or Vomo Island.

South Africa has made the list as one of the best honeymoon destinations thanks to its amazing diversity. From cosmopolitan Cape Town and the wine lands to safaris and the pretty garden route, you can have any sort of honeymoon you desire in this country. Top hotel picks include The Twelve Apostles Hotel, Cape Town.

Ready for an experience like no other on honeymoon? Then head to India for sights you’ll never forget. The golden triangle of Delhi, Agra and Jaipur is ideal for adventurous couples who want to take in all the main attractions. Stay in palatial style at any of the The Oberoi, Taj or Aman Hotels.

If you’ve already enjoyed a classic safari together then take the wildlife encounter up a peg or two on honeymoon with a gorilla trek in Rwanda. A visit to this country will be unforgettable as you follow your guide through the impenetrable rainforest and come up close to the majestic mountain gorillas. David Attenborough eat your heart out. And you can stay in luxury style too as Rwanda has some really smart lodgings including Virunga Lodge and Bisate Lodge.

Peru is one of our favourite honeymoon destinations because it is simply breathtaking in terms of landscape and culture. Machu Picchu is a must-see destination and will make your jaw drop. Travel there in romantic style on board the Belmond Hiram Bingham train from high up Cusco, where you’ll find romance aplenty at the Belmond Hotel Monasterio. Other delights in the country include the Nazca Lines, the Amazon Jungle and the cultural city of Lima.

There’s plenty to see and do in Vietnam, so you’ll want to put together a packed itinerary that takes in both the bustling cities of Hué and Hanoi, where you can enjoy some seriously good food for very little money, as well as the tranquil beaches to the east. A must-do activity is booking a boat trip to Halong Bay – you’ll recognise it from the movies.

Is a wildlife adventure that you’ll never forget top of your honeymoon destinations hot list? Then Ecuador’s Galapagos Islands should be on your radar. Move around these unique volcanic islands on board a smart boat like the Silver Galapagos and marvel at the incredible creatures, like giant tortoises and marine iguanas that you’ll not see anywhere else on earth.

Chile is one of South America’s best honeymoon destinations – it has a huge range of different landscapes, experiences, cities and sights for couples to take their pick from. Adventurous types should head to the far south for glaciers, wildlife and hiking in Patagonia staying at Tierra Patagonia or for star gazing and serene sights there’s the Atacama Desert. Chile also has its own beautiful Lake District. The capital of Santiago is a must-visit while wine lovers will want to stop off in the vineyards to the south of the city staying in splendour at Viña Vik.

As city breaks go, you don’t get much more romantic, exciting, or it has to be said, exhausting than New York. It’s a wonderful place to discover together and to give you the sense that you’re honeymooning on a movie set. From theatre shows on Broadway to trips up skyscrapers, there’s plenty to fill your days here and make magical memories. Splashing the cash? Stay at Baccarat Hotel or for a more bank friendly option try Arlo Nomad.

Love the sound of an Indian Ocean escape but with a little bit more to do than just sunbathe and swim all day? Then Sri Lanka should be top of your honeymoon destinations thanks to its heavenly mix of soft sand beaches, azure seas, ancient towns, eight World Heritage Sites and wildlife wonders.

Create an itinerary that takes in all of these – Galle, Kandy, the beaches of Tangalla, Uda Walawe, Yala or Bundala National Park, Sigiriya Rock and the hill country for tasty tea. Top places to stay include Ceylon Tea Trails, Cape Weligama and Tri Lanka.

As honeymoon destinations go, you can’t go wrong with a stay in Mauritius. It’s pure beach perfection on a large enough island for you to get out and about and not feel too marooned. There are plenty of high-end resorts to choose from, but the best side of the island is arguably the west coast as it’s more sheltered and less windy. Honeymoon-perfect resorts include the romantic LUX Le Morne, Shangri-La Le Touessrok and Constance Prince Maurice.

Been to mainland Spain already but love the food, beaches, and culture? Then take your honeymoon to Mallorca, where you get all the best bits of Spanish life mixed with the idyllic island views and beaches. The most popular places these days are well away from the busy clubbing town of Magaluf!

Head north to luxe Soller or Pollença staying at a boho boutique beauty like Cas Xorc or Can Aulí. The capital of Palma is a fabulous place to stay for a couple of days too, while Cap Rocat in an old cliff fort is the most standout choice for a budget-busting honeymoon.

Slovenia is the European destination for travellers in the know, who want to avoid crowds and still enjoy a mixture of experiences including a city break in Ljubljana, a countryside escape visiting pretty Lake Bled and Lake Bohinj, and a budget-friendly beach break on the Adriatic Coast. All the best bits of Europe rolled up in one country, at a fraction of the price!

For a first safari experience, Kenya is a wonderful place to choose. The Maasai Mara is teeming with wildlife and you’re pretty likely to spot the Big Five all year round. There’s a wide range of places to stay too, from smaller tented camps like Mara Bishops to bigger lodges like Angama Mara. Pair a honeymoon here with a trip to the beaches of Mombasa or an Indian island stay.

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