23 BEST Honeymoon Destinations in the World

We have had our fair share of romantic experiences in many countries abroad. It shouldn’t be any surprise that we are often asked for travel advice from those seeking the best honeymoon destinations in the world. We get emails like, “Hey, I am planning my honeymoon and am wondering what the most romantic place you two have traveled to is. I would love to hear your advice!”

Given our experience, I guess we can’t blame them. We’ve traveled to over 85 countries and counting together as a couple. With all that time spent internationally, we’ve formed a good list of the world’s best honeymoon destinations!

If you were to walk up to us on the street and ask us what the best honeymoon destinations in the world are, these are the honeymoon spots we would give you. They range from mountainous adventures to city escapes, gorgeous beaches, and even safaris. These are the top honeymoon destinations for everyone.

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Best Honeymoon Destinations in the World

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The Maldives

We finally made it to the Maldives this past year and were blown away by how beautiful the islands are. This is seriously one of the best honeymoon destinations in the world. Undoubtedly, this is one of the best honeymoon places in the world. The water really is that blue, and the sand is that white. The coral atolls spread across the Indian Ocean are an enticing getaway with white sand beaches, turquoise water, and tropical weather.

The water is home to an abundance of diverse marine life, and snorkelers can rejoice in close encounters with rays, sharks, whales, and a dizzying number of fishes. To make it only better, some of the world’s most luxurious resorts in the world sit on top of these atolls with indulgent water villas and beach bungalows. It’s well worth the long flight it will undoubtedly take you to get to the middle of the Indian Ocean.

One of the most luxurious places to stay in the Maldives is Velassaru

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Greek Islands

We are just coming off our sixth trip to Greece, and every time we visit, we fall more and more in love with the Greek islands. Each one is unique in its own way and holds something special for every visitor.

Greece is one of the best honeymoon destinations. Why? Because you can feel like you’re getting 3-4 honeymoons in one. You can easily hit three or four islands in just ten days. Each with a distinct vibe. One of our favorite routes is through the Cyclades, where you can enjoy Santorini, Milos, Naxos, and Mykonos in just one trip!

Or consider the Ionian Islands, which will take you to the beaches of Corfu, Kefalonia, Zakynthos, or Lefkada!

One of the most luxurious places to stay in Greece is Hyperion Oia Suites on the island of Santorini. 

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Seychelles

If we had to pick one destination in the world to go on a honeymoon, Seychelles would be the destination we’d choose. The 115 islands that make up the Seychelles Archipagelo are almost too beautiful to be real.

It is this group of islands in the middle of the Indian Ocean where you can enjoy a luxurious honeymoon in the middle of the lush green jungle among crystal warm water and sparkling granite. The islands are formed from granite, and their rocky shores can be found nowhere else on earth. They are definitely the best tropical honeymoon destination in the world. 

One of the most luxurious places to stay for romance in the Seychelles is the Anantara Maia Seychelles Villas

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Scotland

Many honeymooners flock to the Caribbean for their memorable trip, but there is something special waiting for you in Scotland, and we consider it one of the best honeymoon places. The country offers absolutely fantastic and breathtaking scenery, world-class cuisine, and plenty of things to do.

A few great things to do that are slightly different from your typical honeymoon are a road trip along the NC500, renting out an entire castle, hiking in a tranquil forest and glamping in a yurt, or indulging in some of the finest seafood in the world.

One of the coolest places to stay in Scotland is the grand Crossbasket Castle.

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Thailand

One of the best honeymoon destinations in the world is The Land of Smiles. Every part of Thailand is gorgeous, and has something for everyone. Do you want to spend time on the beaches? Go to Phuket, enjoy a dive or snorkeling trip, and see the famous Phang Nga Bay.

Enjoy the rich heritage, culture, and interact with some of the friendliest people in the world. Thailand abounds in temples, Buddha images, and historical landmarks, each with its own tale to narrate. Dare I talk about the food? Don’t expect to lose any weight on your honeymoon in Thailand – Pad Thai, mango sticky rice, or how about Som Tam? You won’t go hungry here!

Best of all? A honeymoon in Thailans is affordable, and you could spend less than half the amount on a honeymoon in Thailand compared to other places on this list.

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Banff

Alberta may not sound like one of the best honeymoon destinations in the world, but hear me out. The Canadian Rockies are some of the prettiest mountain ranges I’ve ever seen. Banff National Park is perfect for a winter or summer honeymoon.

If you opt for a snowy honeymoon, you’re sure to be blown away by the beauty of the mountains instead of palm trees. If you like skiing or snowboarding, you’ll have many options for world-class ski resorts in the Canadian Rockies. If you travel here any other time of year, it will still be an epic time. Banff National Park is the perfect place for adventurous couples who like the outdoors and hiking in the mountains.

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Italy

Italy is one of my favorite countries of all time to travel to, and I consider it one of the best honeymoon places to travel to. Cameron and I traveled there together on a romantic trip. We have also toured with family before, and I tackled the country on my own doing the solo female backpacker thing. There is nothing not to love about the beautiful country.

A stunning Mediterranean coastline, rolling hills with vineyards, world-class cuisine, and €1.30 cappuccinos? What’s not to love? Some of the most romantic places in the country to honeymoon are Perugia, Florence, the Cinque Terre, and places like Sorrento on the Amalfi Coast.

Stay in one of the most romantic places in Positano at Le Sirenuse

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South Africa

We spent three months traveling around South Africa. Heck, we even bought a car there! The country is vast and extremely varied from region to region, making it one of the best honeymoon places in Africa. It’s typical on holiday to spend a few magical nights in a luxury safari lodge only to be dining in one best wine regions in the world the next day.

Follow that up with a city escape in the iconic Cape Town and a road trip down the amazing Garden Route. There is just so much to explore in the country. We also love lesser-known destinations like the Drakensberg, Kalahari, and Sunshine Coast. To make matters better, traveling in South Africa makes for an affordable African honeymoon, as prices are some of the lowest in Africa.

Go on a romantic bush safari at Jaci's Lodge in Madikwe Game Reserve

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Namibia

If you want to wake up among the world’s tallest and oldest sand dunes and watch the sun go down over the desert, then a honeymoon in Namibia will make you and your lover very happy. Many know nothing about Namibia as a honeymoon destination country; even my parents haven’t even heard of it!

However, we were blown away by the country’s beauty when we traveled there. It almost didn’t even feel real! It’s a great place to honeymoon and enjoys romantic solitude in the desert. There are so many things to do in Namibia you’ll want to spend a whole month there. Standing alone in the middle of a sea of red sand is humbling and almost deafening! 

Stay in one of the best places to stay in Namibia at Wolwedans

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New Zealand

Head to the South Pacific Ocean for a honeymoon filled with world-class adventure activities and jaw-dropping scenery. New Zealand is well known for its vast mountains, rolling pasture land, adventure activities, breathtaking fjords, plus a few active volcanic zones.

The country is divided into two islands – North and South. South Island is great for adrenaline-pumping hikes, glacier climbing, and bungee jumping. While North Island, on the other hand, showcases active volcanoes, geysers, and hot springs.

If you’re into eating and drinking, head to Marlborough for some of the world’s best Savinougn Blanc.

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Croatia

Croatia is a big draw for many honeymooners and even backpackers. It’s easy to see why! The country packs a whole lot of history, beautiful beaches, surreal sunsets, and outdoor activities for a fraction of the cost of other destinations in Western Europe.

We’ve gone on a few Croatian road trips and can definitely recommend Istria for great food, wine, and scenery, while towns like Split, Hvar, and Dubrovnik in Southern Croatia are great for a beach getaway. Just be warned in the high season, tourists are flocking to Croatia in mass.

Head to Dubrovnik to book a night at Villa Orsula Dubrovnik

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Turkey

Turkey may not be what you usually think of when you think of romantic honeymoon destinations; however, the country is lovely to travel through, and the Turkish people are among some of the most hospitable. Two highlights for honeymoons are Cappadocia and Bodrum.

Cappadocia is a fairytale town well known for its Chimney house rock formations. Take a sunrise hot air balloon ride and feel like you’re floating through an Alien world. Bodrum is a beautiful seaside town perfect for yachting, ancient history and ruins, and great nightlife.

Wake up at Guzide Cave Hotel and watch the hot air balloons 

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Bali

It’s no secret that Bali has been a honeymoon destination for decades. With the rise of social media, just about everyone has seen videos and photos of the gorgeous island. The tiny Indonesian island welcomes foreigners and offers so much to tourists it’s hard to say no to a honeymoon here.

The island is lovely, with lush green forests, clean beaches, and rich culture. It’s easy to escape to find your zen in places like Ubud while still enjoying the coastal vibes and party atmosphere that many go to in Southeast Asia in search of fun. One of the best parts? Bali is still considered a cheap destination by Western standards to travel through, so it’s a great budget honeymoon destination!

Enjoy the views from Andaz Bali 

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Kenya

Who hasn’t dreamed of seeing a pride of lions in the Masai Mara or having an elephant graze right outside their tent at night? Kenya is the ultimate destination for a romantic African safari, just like in the olden days.

There is even a unique Kenyan camp explicitly designed for guests to feel like they are in 1920s Africa! Oh, don’t forget to travel in style. We love having our safari gear to look like Robert Redford and Meryl Streep in Out of Africa (one of the best movies about Africa). One of our absolute favorite safaris in Kenya was the Masai Mara!

Feel like you woke up in the 1920s at Cottars Camp

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Norway

Many people head to the beach for their honeymoon, but I think a winter holiday sounds just as dreamy. Norway is so beautiful it’s tough to compare its beauty to anything else. It has that unique Scandinavian beauty that mixes rustic, wild, and charm. Norway (Norge) is Scandinavia’s westernmost, northernmost, and easternmost country.

The further you go, the closer to the Arctic Ocean you are, and in my opinion, the more remarkable. A honeymoon holiday here is perfect for those who have spent just a little too much time at the beach (perhaps you live on the coast) and want to see a different part of the world. Tromsø is rated one of the top places to see the aurora worldwide. Head there after September for that experience! Heading to Scandinavia? Read our Europe Packing List post first!

Stay in a contemporary hillside cabin in a design-focused hotel at Juvet Landscape Hotel

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Costa Rica

Are you an adventurous couple traveling from the US? Costa Rica is the perfect honeymoon destination for you! With cheap and short flights to the country, it’s no wonder Costa Rica is a tourist hotspot.

The central American country is rich in flora and fauna, so hiking, biking, diving, rafting, and surfing are very popular during a honeymoon. If you’re heading there, stop at one of the best honeymoon resorts!

Wake up in the jungle at El Silencio

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Japan

After 80+ countries, I have concluded that Japan is my absolute favorite country to travel through. The politeness, the sushi, the cleanliness, the temples and shrines, and just about everything in Japanese culture make it a wonderful place for outsiders to experience.

I recently brought Cameron back to the country with me to have a romantic experience. Thankfully he loved it just as much as I did, and we have plans to return every year. I would never hesitate to tell anyone to travel to Japan.

It’s such a safe, unique, and delicious destination you could spend years here and never get bored. If you’re after mountains, beaches, cities, good food, or cultural immersion on your honeymoon, you won’t be disappointed with Japan. It has it all!

Stay in a traditional ryokan in Hokkaido at Zaborin.

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Galapagos Island

The Galapagos are a small group of islands off the coast of Ecuador and are well known for their impressive diversity of wildlife.  Sea lions, giant tortoises, and even penguins await you in the Galapagos, making these little islands perfect for a couple that loves to explore and has a passion for animals.

The only way to get there is by cruise or plane from mainland Ecuador so be sure to book in advance as the islands are only suitable for a few tourists. Their exclusivity makes them one of the world’s great honeymoon destinations. 

Go on a Galapagos Cruise with Metropolitan Touring

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Tahiti

Tahiti is one of the largest French Polynesian islands, surrounded by volcanic mountain ranges and black beaches. It’s always been one of the best tropical honeymoon destinations, especially for those with large budgets.

This is where you see photos of the luxurious overwater bungalows and crystal-clear water. Tahiti is a great place to relax, but many people travel here to go surfing, scuba diving, snorkeling, and deep-sea fishing.

It really doesn't get much better than the InterContinental Resort Tahiti

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Hawaii

I hate to be cliche and add Hawaii to this list of best places to go for a honeymoon, as it is one of the most visited spots to visit in the US. However, it’s hard not to include it on this list of best beach honeymoon destinations.

The state is just that stunning to see in real life. Maui is probably the most visited island. However, Oʻahu, Kauaʻi, and Lānaʻi also offer incredible beaches and scenery.

The Sensei Lanai is easily one of the best resorts in all of Hawaii

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Iceland

An Iceland honeymoon is sure to get you and your partner excited. The Nordic country may not have the beaches of Hawaii or the Bahamas, but it is so much more! Iceland is a land that is just waiting to be uncovered.

Intimate hot springs, beautiful glaciers, majestic wildlife, and striking waterfalls come together on this Scandinavian island. It will dazzle any traveler, especially those looking for romance on their honeymoon (who isn’t?).

Summer months yield 24 hours of daylight from the “Midnight Sun,” and long winter months provide a dark sky for the Aurora Borealis. Either way, you look at it, you’re in for a memorable and unique treat in the picturesque country of Iceland with so many things to do. I’ve been to Iceland once alone and together as a couple with Cameron. Our latest trip was driving around the great ring road to uncover all the nooks and crannies of the country.

Stay in a literal bubble room at the 5 Million Star Hotel

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Zanzibar

This East African island packs a lot of punch for things to do and experience. It’s safe to say that excitement and relaxation can be had in every corner of Zanzibar. At the same time, you can still easily relax on a beautiful beach and dive into the warm, clear water.

Zanzibar is the honeymoon island experience combined with an African safari. If you go on a safari, I would recommend saving a honeymoon in Zanzibar for last so that you can go home relaxed and refreshed. Zanzibar is also great if you want cultural immersion. Stone Town has to be one of the most exciting places I’ve ever seen.

The Best Hotels in Zanzibar Ranked & Reviewed

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Antarctica

Antarctica is an interesting and unique place to visit, and probably doesn’t seem like one of the bet honeymoon destinations in the world. The climate is very cold and dry, with temperatures averaging -29 to 040 degrees Celsius in the winter and 28 degrees Fahrenheit (-2 degrees Celsius) in the summer.

There are no hotels or other amenities in Antarctica, so all trips to tourist trips Antarctica mean a cruise. Additionally, the cost of a trip to Antarctica can also be quite high.

However, if you and your partner are adventurous and enjoy wilderness travel, Antarctica could be an exciting and memorable place to spend your honeymoon. If you are truly looking for something different, and the possibility of a “Drake Shake” Drake Passage crossing doesn’t scare you, it’s a honeymoon you will never forget.

We booked with Albatros and had a wonderful, luxurious experience!

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