Valentines Day has come and gone, and once again, the worlds eyes are lingering on the most romantic, the most luxurious, and the most relaxing destinations in the world. Naturally, we all want to treat our loved ones on this celebrated day of love, but why save your romance for one day a year? It may be too late to for this years Feb 14 deadline, but don’t forget, the worlds most romantic destinations are at your fingertips all year round.
Home of some of the worlds most iconic on-screen romances, such as When Harry Met Sally and Breakfast at Tiffanys, the Big Apple is the perfect place to unleash your inner romantic. Why not take your loved one for a carriage ride through Central Park, go ice-skating at the Rockefeller Centre, or simply soak up the skyline of this magnificent city from the Empire State Building’s observation deck? You might even have time to take in a broadway show – all the glitz and glamour will have you starry-eyed in no time! Whatever your budget, New York City is home to some of the worlds romantic sights and activities in the world, all year round.
With its swaying palm trees, perennial sunshine and natural serenity, it is unsurprising that Hawaii is one of the worlds top Honeymooning destinations. But why wait for the honeymoon? Take your loved one on a sunset dinner cruise, enjoy a relaxing couples spa treatment, and maybe even hike up the Pali Lookout, to take in the panoramic spectacular that is the Koolau Mountain Range. Due to its location, Hawaii’s temperature remains fairly consistent throughout the year, making it a prime destination for both summer and winter. Whether you’re relaxing on the beach to admiring the mountains and scenery, Hawaii is one of the worlds most beautiful holiday destinations, and an ideal location for spending a little romantic time with your loved one.
Whether its the links to some of Shakespeare’s greatest plays, the romance of Gondola Rides, or simply the decadence of the architecture and design, there’s something undeniably beautiful about this drowning city. No matter if you’re a regular casanova or simply a romantic at heart, Venice proffers endless opportunities for spending time with loved ones. If you’re one for classical beauty, why not bask in the beauty of Venetian art at the church of the Frari, or swoon over a romantic ballet or opera performance at the Teatro La Fenice. Venice is as rich in romance as it is in history, and though it might be a little pricey, it’s an experience certainly worth indulging in.
Encouraging lazy days, relaxation, and comfort with a touch of adventure, the Maldives are honestly less of a destination, and more of an experience. The crystal clear waters washing up onto ivory sand creates a landscape so picturesque, it honestly needs to be seen to be believed. There is an inherent air of romance to the Maldives, and with the added temptations of candle-lit dinners and couples sand-massages, it’s not hard to see why they’re such a popular destination for couples. The marine life surrounding the islands is phenomenal, with rays, sharks, sea turtles and a myriad of fish living in the surrounding area. As a result, there are more than 60 charters in the Maldives dedicated to providing the entire island experience, both land and sea, offering everything from snorkelling and diving, to dining and accommodation. It’s hard to imagine anything more romantic than the privacy and serenity of dining under the stars on a luxury boat, as you cruise through this island paradise.
Arguably the most romantic city on earth, Paris is an unmissable destination on any romantic holiday. Whether you’re climbing the eiffel tower to marvel at this spectacular city, or picnicking underneath with chocolate croissants and champagne, the City of Lights is sure to seduce even the most cynical traveller. Lose yourself in the winding narrow streets that inspired artists like Claude Monet and Vincent Van Gogh, or in the decadent beauty of high end fashion on display along the tree-lined Champs-Élysées. And speaking of decadence, just a short train ride away from central Paris lies the infamously lavish Palace of Versailles. Whether the sun is shining, or the grounds are covered in snow, a leisurely stroll through the palace gardens is sure incite romance.
If your idea of romance involves sunshine and fine wine, then you absolutely can’t go past America’s Golden State. Set against the stunning backdrop of the pacific ocean, the panoramic vistas of Laguna beach, California, are ideal for taking in a romantic sunset with your sweet-heart, before enjoying boutique wines and fine dining at the local bistro. And if you fancy a day at the seaside, why not head north to the beautiful Manhattan Pier for a surf, and a trip to the aquarium? Or perhaps, if you’re in the mood for a little mystery, check out Santa Monica’s ‘Opaque’ restaurant, famous for it’s dining-in-the-dark experience. With nothing to distract, dining at Opaque allows you to indulge in your food in a unique way – certainly a romantic experience, depending on the company around. California is also home to some of the worlds most iconic theme-parks, and although Disneyland may not be your first thought when it comes to romance, there’s something heartwarmingly nostalgic about revisiting the characters and dreams of your youth with a loved one.
Hotels.com has scoured the globe to find the best for those looking for romantic get-a-ways all year around.