24 of the most romantic places in the world

Whether you're looking for a beautiful beach to share a sundowner on, or you want to get lost in each other amongst the bustle of a city, here's our pick of 24 of the most romantic places in the world.

This article is inspired by our Rough Guides guidebooks — your essential guides for travelling the world.

1. The Seychelles

With luminous rainforest stretching down to dazzling beaches and warm seas, it’s no surprise that the islands of the Seychelles are such an intoxicating destination. The islands are home to a number of intimate (and often exclusive) resorts. You'll find many of them on beautiful La Digue island – a honeymooner’s paradise.

Discover the colorful underwater world during this snorkeling trip to the Saint-Anne Marine National Park in Seychelles.

Where to stay on the Seychelles:

• My Angel

Boasting a garden, BBQ facilities, terrace and free WiFi, My Angel is situated in La Digue, less than 1 km from Anse La Reunion Beach and a 11-minute walk from Anse Source d'Argent. The property is around 14 km from Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve, 15 km from Praslin Museum and 2 km from La Digue Marina.

2. Jukkasjärvi, Sweden

Constructed afresh each winter, Jukkasjärvi's IceHotel is as much an art project as somewhere to spend the night. In Swedish Lapland, 200km north of the Arctic Circle, the hotel provides ample opportunities to snuggle up under furry blankets. It’s also an excellent place to see one of the most astounding natural phenomena – the northern lights.

Drive through Lapland's wilderness on a guided snowmobile safari from Kiruna or Jukkasjärvi and spot the aurora borealis on this guided snowmobile tour and Northern lights hunt.

Where to stay in Jukkasjärvi:

• Reindeer Lodge

Situated in Jukkasjärvi in the Norrbotten region, Reindeer Lodge features different accommodation in Sámi design at the shores of river Torne.

3. The Lake District, England

With sixteen major lakes squeezed between England’s highest mountains, the Lake District deserves all its hype. The area is small – just 30 sq miles – but its beauty is breathtaking. This is the place for long walks, picturesque villages and fantastic pubs in which to cosy up at the end of a day exploring.

Enjoy one of England’s most picturesque regions on a full-day tour of the Lake District. Visit mysterious Castlerigg Stone Circle and Lakeland villages.

Where to stay in Lake District:

• Woodlands

In the heart of the beautiful Lake District, Woodlands is just a short walk from Lake Windermere and the shops, bars and cafes of Bowness. The World of Beatrix Potter is just 15 minutes away, and Windermere Golf Club is a 5 minute drive.

4. Heidelberg, Germany

A pristine town, nestled in a wooded gorge on the River Necker, Heidelberg has inspired everyone from Goethe to Disraeli. The epitome of a German fairytale landscape, you'll find a medieval castle set on the hill and “gingerbread” houses. It’s a great romantic destination for a relaxed few days of fine food and people-watching.

On this 1.5-hour guided walking tour you experience the exciting, romantic, humorous and interesting stories of Heidelberg’s old town. See for yourself why Heidelberg is considered one of the most beautiful cities in Germany with a qualified tour guide.

Find more romantic cities in our list of the most beautiful towns in Germany.

Where to stay in Heidelberg:

• Hotel-Restaurant Hackteufel

This stylish, family-run hotel and restaurant is located in the heart of the romantic city of Heidelberg, directly between the Heiligengeistkirche church and the Old Bridge.

5. Venice, Italy

Endlessly fascinating, Venice boasts an urban landscape so rich that even the sheer number of tourists can’t detract from the beauty of this one of the most romantic places in the world. The city is at its most alluring (and quietest) in winter. Mist descends over the canals, and a leisurely wander through the quieter streets at any time of year will lead you to discover the true heart of the city.

Discover even more picturesque and romantic spots with our list of the most beautiful places in Italy.

Enjoy a weekend getaway in the most romantic of cities with our 4-day tailor-made trip to romantic Venice.

Where to stay in Venice:

• Locanda Cavanella

Locanda Cavanella is housed in a renovated historical building just a few steps from Saint Mark’s Square in the most typical, sought-after part of Venice.

6. Burgh Island, England

Separated from the mainland at high tide, the Art Deco hotel on Burgh Island has long been associated with old-fashioned glamour. Decked out in period furnishings, a stay here is like stepping back in time. Indulge yourselves sipping a pint in the old “smugglers” pub, swimming in the seawater rock pool, or getting your glad rags on for one of the famous dinner dances.

Where to stay on Burgh Island:

• Burgh Island Hotel

Located in Bigbury on Sea, 500 m from Bigbury on Sea Beach, Burgh Island Hotel provides accommodation with a restaurant, free private parking, a bar and a shared lounge. 31 km from Plymouth Hoe and 32 km from Plymouth Pavilions, the property offers a garden and a terrace. The accommodation features a sauna, room service and free WiFi.

7. Istanbul, Turkey

With one foot in Europe and the other in Asia, Istanbul has been irresistible to travellers for centuries. Boasting a staggering wealth of attractions – from Byzantine churches to the minarets of its Ottoman mosques – complemented by superb food and exciting nightlife, Istanbul is undoubtedly one of the most romantic places in the world.

Explore Istanbul, the former capital of the Ottoman Empire with our 5-day tailor-made tour to Istanbul and Cappadocia.

Where to stay in Istanbul:

• Mest Hotel Istanbul Sirkeci

Well located in the Fatih district of Istanbul, Mest Hotel Istanbul Sirkeci is located 1.2 km from Basilica Cistern, 100 m from Spice Bazaar and less than 1 km from Column of Constantine. Among the facilities of this property are a restaurant, a 24-hour front desk and room service, along with free WiFi throughout the property. The hotel features family rooms.

8. Rajasthan, India

For many, Rajasthan is India at its most exotic. From the labyrinthine old walled town of Jodhpur to the magical desert city of Jaisalmer and the waterside palaces of Udaipur, it’s not hard to see why. Evoke an old-fashioned romance with a camel-back trip across the sands, then spend the evening relaxing in a luxury tented camp, under the wide, star-filled sky.

Explore the beauty of India with our list of the most romantic places in India.

Experience the Land of Kings in luxury with our tailor-made trip to Rajasthan.

Where to stay in Rajasthan:

• The Oberoi Udaivilas Udaipur

Spread over 50 acres, pavilions and domes feature at The Oberoi Udaivilas, which boasts grand architecture inspired by the palaces of Rajasthan. The property is built on 200-year old hunting grounds of the Maharana of Mewar.

9. Kyoto, Japan

Boasting the country’s richest culture, and most refined cuisine, complemented by ancient Buddhist temples, sublime gardens and majestic palaces, Kyoto is, for many people, the epitome of traditional Japan. Spring is undoubtedly the most romantic time for a visit, as the cherry blossom trees burst into bloom.

Visit Kyoto and savor a Japanese tea ceremony with our tailor-made trip to Japan highlights.

Where to stay in Kyoto:

• Ace Hotel Kyoto

Ace Hotel Kyoto features a restaurant, free bikes, a fitness centre and bar in Kyoto. Each accommodation at the 4-star hotel has city views, and guests can enjoy access to a shared lounge and to a garden. The accommodation provides a 24-hour front desk, room service and currency exchange for guests.

10. The Greek Islands

Whether you’re looking for the perfect sandy beach, that idyllic sunset view, or a traditional waterfront taverna, island-hopping around the Greek Islands holds an irresistible appeal. Swimming in balmy seas at dusk, chatting over great local food and drinking under the stars – it’s the simplest pleasures that are the best here.

Hop between the islands of Milos, Naxos, and Amorgos on our romantic tailor-made trip to the Greek Islands.

Where to stay on the Greek Islands:

• Hyperion City Hotel & Spa

Hyperion City Hotel & Spa has a restaurant, outdoor swimming pool, a fitness centre and bar in Chania Town. This 4-star hotel offers a shared lounge and a concierge service. The accommodation features a 24-hour front desk, airport transfers, room service and free WiFi.

11. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Rio boasts some of the greatest landmarks in the world – Christ the Redeemer atop Corcovado mountain; Copacabana and Ipanema beaches and Sugar Loaf mountain. Not to mention one of the world’s most sensual festivals, Carnaval. With it's sublime setting, it’s fair to say that Rio isn’t just romantic place to visit, it’s downright sexy.

Explore the lively city of Rio de Janeiro, home to Ipanema and Copacabana beaches with our tailor-made trip to breathtaking Brazil.

Where to stay in Rio de Janeiro:

• Miramar By Windsor Copacabana

Located right across from the famous Copacabana Beach, the Miramar By Windsor Copacabana features a green granite pool and a modern gym. This pet friendly, design hotel offers butler service and free WiFi. Guests can start the day admiring the beautiful beach view while savoring a rich breakfast.

12. New York City, USA

Dynamic, energetic and diverse – there’s nowhere else quite like New York City. Much of the city’s timeless appeal lies in the variety of its neighbourhoods. From the tenements of the Lower East Side to the brownstones and nightlife of Brooklyn, it’s a place where every corner throws up something new, and yet familiar – the perfect urban landscape to fall in love to.

Where to stay in New York City:

• Pod Times Square

Located 400 m from Restaurant Row in New York, Pod Times Square features a restaurant, bar and free WiFi throughout the property.

13. The Winelands, South Africa

South Africa is abundant in spectacular landscapes, and one of its most beguiling lies just a short drive from Cape Town – the orderly vineyards of the Winelands, set against striking white Cape Dutch architecture and dramatic mountains. And of course, nothing quite sets up a romantic scene like a glass or two of the finest local wine.

Discover the natural beauty all around Cape Town with our tailor-made 7-day tour to wildlife, wine and whales of Cape Town.

Where to stay near the Winelands:

• On Pinewood Guest House

Located in Cape Town, 2.9 km from Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, On Pinewood Guest House provides accommodations with an outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a bar and a shared lounge. 9.5 km from CTICC and 10.8 km from Robben Island Ferry, the property has a garden and barbecue facilities. Certain rooms at the property include a patio with a pool view.

14. Patagonia, Argentina

The romance of adventure is evident in travelling through Patagonia; this immense area is both legendary and extreme. Landscapes veer from the breathtaking natural wonder of the craggy Perito Moreno Glacier to the savagely beautiful peaks of the Fitz Roy massif. Marvel at whales, penguins and elephant seals, and feel as though you’re travelling to the edge of the world.

Argentina has lots to offer its visitors: a glacier the size of a city, sizzling tango, fashionable barrios, artisan towns, ranches with horses and gauchos and wild untamed natural beauty. Discover Argentina with our tailor-made trip from Buenos Aires to Patagonia.

Where to stay in Patagonia:

• Llao Llao Resort, Golf-Spa

Set in San Carlos de Bariloche, 25 km from Civic Centre, Llao Llao Resort, Golf-Spa offers accommodation with a restaurant, free private parking, a fitness centre and a bar. The accommodation features a private beach area and water sports facilities, as well as a shared lounge and a garden.

15. Tahiti, French Polynesia

Tahiti, the classic desert island idyll – tiny islands, crystal-clear waters and quiet beaches – is the perfect landscape for two. Choose an overwater bungalow for the ultimate castaway experience, complemented by leisurely days of swimming, sunbathing and gazing out at the endless ocean views.

Full day circle Tahiti Island's tour is the most popular tour among French Polynesia travelers. It's the best way to explore all the most interesting attractions and to get full info about the country.

Where to stay on Tahiti:

• Manaeva lodge

Located in Faaa in the Tahiti region and Paofai Gardens reachable within 6.2 km, Manaeva lodge provides accommodation with free WiFi, BBQ facilities, a garden and free private parking.

16. Bali, Indonesia

Bali is an island of towering, cloud-topped volcanoes and vibrant green rice fields that terrace down to the ocean. It has a mesmerising traditional culture, world-class beach resorts, and is undeniably enchanting. Dine barefoot on the sand by candlelight, relax with a traditional massage, or soak up the scenery from a mystical temple.

Celebrate your love union on the magical island with our tailor-made love trip to Bali.

Where to stay on Bali:

• Radisson Blu Bali Uluwatu

Situated in Uluwatu, 200 m from Impossible Beach, Radisson Blu Bali Uluwatu features accommodation with a restaurant, free private parking, an outdoor swimming pool and a fitness centre. Each accommodation at the 5-star hotel has garden views, and guests can enjoy access to a bar and to a garden.

17. Paris, France - one of the most romantic places in the world

It may be a cliché to call Paris romantic, but that doesn’t make it any less true. This glamorous city is at its most compelling when explored on foot, discovering not just the obvious sites but its quieter charms. Explore the tucked-away streets on the islands in the Seine, the Formica-clad cafés that haven’t changed for decades, and the smaller neighbourhoods where locals outnumber tourists.

Stay in the luxurious Park Hyatt Paris-Vendôme and take things completely at your own pace on our tailor-made romantic Paris city break.

Where to stay in Paris:

• Millésime Hôtel

Located in a 17th century building in the heart of the Saint-Germain-des-Prés district, just a 10-minute walk from The Louvre, this hotel offers air-conditioned guestrooms and a courtyard garden.

To find more information about the most iconic areas of Paris - read our guide to the best areas to stay in Paris.

18. Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina

For a romantic break with a difference, head to the charming Eastern European city of Mostar. Relatively tourist-free, this historic city rests snuggly in a river valley. Spend your days wandering its cobbled streets, marvel at its many minarets, and relax in one of the surprisingly chic cafés.

Visit the dramatic Kravica Waterfalls in the forests of Bosnia-Herzegovina on a full-day tour from Dubrovnik. Explore the city of Mostar with a local guide and learn about the history of the region.

Where to stay in Mostar:

• Hotel Mostar

Completely renovated in 2015 and situated in the centre of Mostar, this hotel is close to the Spanish Square and 1.3 km from the famous Old Bridge. It has a 24-hour front desk and free Wi-Fi in all areas.

19. Fez, Morocco

Arguably the country’s cultural and spiritual heart, Fez remains the world’s most complete and unspoilt medieval Islamic settlement. The city stimulates the senses, not least in the extraordinary Medina-city of Fez el Bali, where its souks are home to a barrage of hauntingly beautiful sounds, striking visual details and tantalising smells.

Explore the cultural capital Fez with our tailor-made trip to Highlights of Morocco.

Where to stay in Fez:

• Riad Authentic Palace & Spa

Ideally set in the Fes El Bali district of Fès, Riad Authentic Palace & Spa is situated 2.4 km from Royal Palace Dar El Makhzen, 400 m from Batha Square and 800 m from Medersa Bouanania. Among the facilities of this property are a restaurant, a 24-hour front desk and room service, along with free WiFi.

20. Ruaha National Park, Tanzania

This rugged and remote landlocked national park boasts exceptional game and big-cat viewing. The best way to experience the landscape is from one of the park’s stylish but sustainable tented camps, many of which will enable you to spot giraffe and elephants without stepping beyond your private terrace.

Where to stay near Ruaha National Park:

• Iringa Sunset Hotel

Located in Iringa, 1.6 km from Iringa, Iringa Sunset Hotel provides accommodation with a restaurant, free private parking, a bar and a shared lounge. The property is set 16 km from Kalenga, 17 km from Nduli and 18 km from Mapanda.

21. Quebec City, Canada

Spread over the promontory Cap Diamant and the banks of the St Lawrence River, Quebec City (sometimes referred to just as “Québec”) is one of Canada’s most beautifully located cities, and certainly its most historic one. Vieux-Québec, surrounded by solid fortifications, is the only walled city in North America, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Throughout the old city winding cobbled streets are flanked by seventeenth- and eighteenth-century stone houses and churches, graceful parks and squares, and countless monuments. Although some districts have been painstakingly restored to give tourists as seductive an introduction to Québec as possible, this is nevertheless an authentically and profoundly French-Canadian city and one of the most romantic places in the world.

Experience an exclusive visit of this prestigious Fairmont hotel on this guided tour. Experience the history of the prestigious Château Frontenac by discovering the famous people and historical events that have shaped its identity over the years.

Where to stay in Quebec City:

• Hotel Manoir Morgan

Boasting a bar, terrace and views of city, Hotel Manoir Morgan is situated in Quebec City, 100 m from Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac. Among the facilities of this property are a restaurant, a 24-hour front desk and luggage storage space, along with free WiFi throughout the property. Quartier du Petit Champlain is 300 m away and Terrasse Dufferin is 200 m from the hotel.

22. The Maldives

Comprising 26 coral atolls and over 1200 islands, the overall land area of the Maldives archipelago is just twice the size of Washington DC. But with some of the finest deep sea diving on the planet (with visibility of up to forty metres), palm-fringed beaches, and the absence of any agriculture or industry, the Maldives has become the ultimate island getaway and one of the most romantic places in the world.

Spend your days on the beach and exploring the fascinating underwater world with our tailor-made trip to the Luxurious Maldives.

Where to stay on the Maldives:

• Vakkaru Maldives

Vakkaru Maldives is a lush tropical habitat located within the crystal clear waters of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in Baa Atoll. A scenic 25-minute seaplane or alternatively a 30-minute domestic flight from Male International Airport followed by a 25-minute speedboat journey transports you into an unforgettable paradise intuitively designed to soothe the soul and calm the spirit.

23. Udaipur, India

Spreading around the shores of the idyllic Lake Pichola and backdropped by a majestic ring of craggy green hills, Udaipur seems to encapsulate India at its most quintessentially romantic. Its intricate sequence of ornately turreted and balconied palaces, whitewashed havelis and bathing ghats clustered around the waters of the lake – or, in the case of the Lake Palace hotel and Jag Mandir, floating magically upon them.

Udaipur is a richly rewarding place to visit, and although it’s possible to take in most of the sights in a few days, many people spend at least a week exploring the city and the various attractions scattered about the surrounding countryside.

This tour is perfect for anyone who wants to see all Udaipur’s highlights in a single day. Explore the City Palace, the views of Monsoon Palace, the serenity of Fatehsagar Lake, Jagdish Temple, and Lake Pichola.

Where to stay in Udaipur:

• Trident Udaipur

Surrounded by landscaped gardens, Trident Udaipur is located on the banks of the Pichola Lake and spread over 43 acres. It houses 3 dining options and an outdoor pool. 24-hour room service is provided. Free WiFi is available in the rooms of the property.

24. Amalfi Coast, Italy

Occupying the southern side of Sorrento’s peninsula, the Amalfi Coast (Costiera Amalfitana) lays claim to being Europe’s most beautiful stretch of coast, its corniche road winding around the towering cliffs that slip almost sheer into the sea. By car or bus it’s an incredible ride (though it can get mighty congested in summer), with some of the most spectacular stretches between Salerno and Amalfi.

If you’re staying in Sorrento especially, it shouldn’t be missed on any account; in any case the towns along here hold the beaches that Sorrento lacks. The coast as a whole has become rather developed, and these days it’s one of Italy’s ritzier bits of shoreline, villas atop its precarious slopes fetching a bomb in both cash and kudos.

This is truly a trip that gets all your senses tingling. Taste the most wonderful and freshly made Italy food in Naples one day and enjoy the most beautiful views of the Amalfi Coast with our tailor-made trip to Tuscany and Amalfi Coast.

Where to stay on Amalfi Coast:

• La Serenata Luxury

Located in Maiori, 100 m from Maiori Beach and 1.2 km from Minori Beach, La Serenata Luxury provides sea views and free WiFi. Cavallo Morto Beach is 2.8 km from the accommodation, while Maiori Harbour is less than 1 km away. The nearest airport is Salerno - Costa d'Amalfi, 39 km from La Serenata Luxury, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.

If you prefer to plan and book your trips without any effort and hassle, use the expertise of our local travel experts to make sure your trip will be just like you dream it to be.

For more travel inspiration check out the snapshot of The Rough Guide to the 100 Best Places on Earth 2022 and find ideas and tips for your future trips.

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