All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.
Itching for a romantic weekend getaway? While we fully believe that there's no better anniversary gift than one that will help you make memories together (though we wouldn't say no to some nice jewelry), you don't have to save your vacation for a special occasion. Sometimes a quick couples trip can be just what the doctor ordered.
You can head to the Southern US or an all-inclusive in the Caribbean for sunny, beach-friendly weather, the Northeast or West for some mind clearing mountain air, or even European capitals to see the highlights.
The first step is deciding what kind of couples vacation you’re craving: Do you plan on hunkering down in the sheets all weekend? Are you ready to hit the pavement and explore a new city through its museums and restaurants? Or are you looking for a relaxing babymoon destination where you can dig into a juicy new nonfiction book and wiggle your toes in some warm, powder-soft sand? We've compiled some of our favorite locations around the world—from affordable locales to high-end resorts for celebrating milestones—all of which will ignite the romance. So pack your best swimsuit (or puffer jacket), hop on Expedia (their new ChatGPT tool makes even last-minute planning super easy), or grab a Booking.com promo code, and read on to find out which trip is perfect for you…and yours.
Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic may be more well known for spring breaks than romantic weekend getaways, but that could be because you’ve never visited the eastern tip of the island, a paradise known as Cap Cana. Here you’ll find one of the Caribbean’s best marinas for fishing, miles of white-sand beaches for fun in the sun, and some of the country’s most glamorous and romantic hotels. Our pick in the area is Eden Roc Cap Cana, DR’s only Relais & Châteaux property that boasts a whopping 30,000 acres for true seclusion. Apart from elegant beachfront villa accommodations, there is also a brand-new spa and wellness program that includes many in-room services like couples massages and custom bath soaks. And those looking for the most unique romantic dinner should make sure to book a private meal at the boutique property’s on-site cenote, a limestone cave complete with a waterfall fountain. If you're looking for a more inexpensive option, Punta Cana has droves of lovely (and “affordable”) all-inclusives like The Majestic Elegance, which is on a stunning beach with crystal-clear water.
Save when you plan your couples getaway with these Booking.com promo codes.
St. Barts
The glamorous island in the French West Indies is known not only for its elegant hotels but its many peaceful white-sand beaches and romantic watering holes. We recommend a stay at Le Barthélemy Hotel & Spa, a boutique oceanfront property that can arrange romantic excursions like a sunset cruise on a private yacht, custom couples massages in partnership with swank beauty line La Mer, and oversized suites complete with private plunge pools that call for a skinny dip.
Nashville
Whether you've been with your SO for a few months and this is the first time you're traveling together or you're celebrating your 25th wedding anniversary, one of our favorite destinations for some serious fun is Nashville. The Music City has everything: bustling honky-tonks to blow off steam and boogie down (we're partial to the old-school vibes at Robert's Western World), incredible eats (we're still dreaming about the wood-fired edamame and Wagyu brisket at Noko and the slab bacon at Oak Steakhouse), chic cocktail bars far from the main drag (we love Bastion), and a vibrant arts scene. For a taste of all of the above, stay at The Bobby, where you'll have easy access to its concert series featuring local artists, a slick pool, and one of the most IG-worthy watering holes—its 1956 retrofitted Greyhound bus—and we're just talking about what's on the rooftop. The sleek boutique hotel, which just turned five, has a gallery, a sexy Garage Bar where you can leave your (literal) mark (the walls are adorned in neon graffiti), and some of the most comfortable beds in Tennessee. Though it's perfectly located steps from Printer's Alley and a quick walk from Broadway, you'll feel like you're in an oasis away from the fray if droves of bachelorette parties aren't your thing. And if you did spend most of your weekend mixing and mingling with the girls in the veils, the menu at Union Tavern offers plenty to help you soak up the whiskey. It's the type of eclectic place that'll make you feel like a rock star, which can be enough to shake up any couple's rut.
Puerto Rico
From the East Coast, you can fly to Puerto Rico in less time than most road trips, making it an appealing long-weekend destination during the winter months, but we love it in the summer too. Its capital, San Juan, is also one of our favorite cities for couples due to its mix of beautiful, historic buildings, and many charming, intimate restaurants. For an inexpensive hotel that is still suitably pampering for a romantic weekend, check in to the Condado Vanderbilt, located in the über-chic Condado district. The storied Spanish Revival property boasts amenities like pool and beach butlers, Puerto Rico’s only hammam, and two different oceanfront restaurants.
Save when you plan your couples getaway with these Booking.com promo codes.
Antigua
Antigua may not get as much attention as some other Lesser Antilles islands like St. Kitt’s or St. Lucia, but we think being a little more under the radar is what makes it one of the more romantic locales in the region. We’re huge fans of its gentle ocean breezes, peaceful white-sand beaches, and the vibrant coral reefs to explore by snorkel or scuba. And if you’re longing for a vacation during which you don’t have to plan a single thing, check out Curtain Bluff, an all-inclusive with—thankfully—delicious food and plenty of on-site bonding activities like snorkeling trips to Cades Reef or couples tennis lessons. And if your MO is simply to laze, your beach concierge can certainly help with that.
San Miguel de Allende, Mexico
.jpg)
About 168 miles north from Mexico City, the fairy-tale-like San Miguel de Allende is more than worth the three and a half-hour drive it takes to get there from the capital (or an hour and a half from the nearest airport in Léon, Guanajuato). The storied city, first established in the 16th century, was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008, and makes for an idyllic long weekend escape. Chic overnight options abound in San Miguel de Allende, though, for a truly memorable experience that captures the historic charm, consider staying at Casa de Sierra de Nevada, a Belmond Hotel. Located in the heart of the city center, the property consists of six restored 17th- and 18th century Mexican mansions in a walkable cluster, each complete with vaulted archways, bougainvillea-shaded courtyards, and ornate, trickling fountains. Accommodations-wise, there are 23 suites and 14 rooms, each one uniquely decorated with antique furnishings and local artworks. The outdoor pool, ensconced in lush greenery, is certainly a highlight, but far from the only one. There’s plenty to love and enjoy when staying here, from the central location to the variety of food; the hotel is home to two restaurants (Andanza and Restaurante del Parque), plus the Sazón Cooking School and Tunki Rooftop by Handshake, a rooftop bar with arguably the best views and cocktails in town. (Stop by for a drink at sunset and thank us later.) Having a car in San Miguel de Allende isn’t needed, as nearly all the main attractions are walkable; the hotel is minutes away from the daily Market, the Parroquia church (a 17th-century gothic marvel), and the best churros in town at Chocolates y Churros San Agustín. A vibrant art scene thrives in San Miguel de Allende; La Fabricá la Aurora is a must-visit for discovering the local crafts.
Santa Fe
If you're thinking of heading out west, it's well worth spending a few days in the Land of Enchantment. Fly into Albuquerque, then make your way north to Santa Fe, an hour and change drive to New Mexico's capital. Nestled in the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo mountains, Santa Fe is a popular destination for creatives and adventurers of all stripes, with a big local arts scene, unique pueblo-style adobe architecture, and tons of skiing, hiking, and mountain biking available throughout the year. For a weekend trip, stay at the charming Bishop's Lodge, which is located just outside the downtown area in Tesuque. It's the perfect place to appreciate the rich cultural history of New Mexico and reconnect with nature. Spend the morning swimming, horseback riding, or hiking around the property, then arrange for a pueblo tour for after lunch, followed by a massage in the spa. Book dinner at Sky Fire, which specializes in wood-fired dishes with local, seasonal ingredients. For a day trip, make time to visit Georgia O'Keeffe's home and studio in Abiquiú, which is open for private and public tours throughout the year.
Miami
Miami is an understandably popular destination: sunny skies, sexy cocktail bars, and plenty of beaches. But not every hotel screams romance when music from the rooftop bar is pounding until 2 a.m. That’s why we’re huge fans of Surfside, a more peaceful and elegant enclave due north of the debauchery of South Beach. And one of our favorite hotels there is one you’ve probably seen on Instagram: The Four Seasons Hotel at the Surf Club. A veritable oasis in the middle of the buzzing city, it boasts oceanfront rooms, some of Miami’s best restaurants, and a historic lobby bar that is as sultry as they come. They offer plenty of ways to pamper your significant other, including private poolside cabanas for some surreptitious canoodling, and personalized cocktails from the cocktail trolley at The Champagne Bar. Pro tip: You can even ask for a custom picnic basket to set up a romantic dinner on the beach. The Setai is another perfect place if you're there more to soak up the sun than the tequila. The entire property is dimly lit to exude all the calm energy, and that's nothing compared to visiting the five-star Valmont spa (get the Luminosity of Ice facial, trust us). There are also three different pools all set at different temperatures so you can swim year-round, and there's private beach access, too. As for dining, the Setai's options are unmatched. We're partial to Jaya which has a selection of Asian-fusion dishes and evening entertainment like fire dancers and contortionists.
Cancún, Mexico
Cancún might not be the first place you think of for a relaxing family vacation, but there's no reason why it can't be—and one of the best places to unwind in the Yucatan peninsula is the Garza Blanca Resort & Spa, one of the area's most modern and luxurious all-inclusive resorts. Set on a palm tree-studded beach, it features not one, not two, but six pools between the rooftop and the ground level that are perfect for entertaining couples, friend groups, and families with young kids. As an all-inclusive resort, food and drink is the star of the show: There are multiple Mexican cuisine options (including a taco food trunk on the beach), a Japanese restaurant, a steakhouse, and Chinese fusion up on the roof. Breakfast can be enjoyed in the suite—or in the Gourmet Hall, which turns into a massive buffet each morning. For a slow wakeup or night in, there's of course room service, which is handled here by a dedicated floor butler who's available round-the-clock. Since the word “spa” is in the resort's name, you'd be remiss not to book a spa appointment, which offers massages and facials, as well as a signature hydrotherapy circuit. (Pro tip: Book an evening session and watch the sunset as you alternate between dips in the cold plunge bath and the heated jacuzzi.) A four-night stay would be ideal to enjoy a little bit of everything the resort has to offer (hi, morning yoga), though we wouldn't blame you for wanting to extend your trip by a few more days.
Save when you plan your couples getaway with these Booking.com promo codes.
Aruba
Aruba, known as One Happy Island, is one of our favorite Caribbean vacation spots not only for its world-famous beaches but for its relative affordability. It has plenty of hotels for couples, like the Hilton Aruba Caribbean Resort & Casino, which is a popular spot for engagements (hint-hint). The hotel even employs a sunset concierge, who can suggest the perfect romantic spot for popping the big question. And if you’re already married? Fun fact: Aruba is also known as a vow-renewal destination and the hotel can set up a whole renewal package, which includes a couples massage and a 30-minute photo shoot during sunset. If your idea of romance is singing your heart out, the downtown happens to have a very fun piano bar. Or while away the day at Renaissance Wind Creek Aruba Resort's private flamingo island, which is excellent for photo ops.
Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta, on Mexico’s western coast, is fast becoming our favorite beach destination in the country. Not only are the shores of the Pacific Ocean spectacular, but many of the resorts in the area are comparatively inexpensive. One of the standout properties here is the Hilton Vallarta Riviera, which is perched between the Bahia de Banderas and the tropical forests near the Sierra Madre Mountains. And because every room here is outfitted with a private balcony, it’s a stellar hotel for a romantic escape. Or, for a hotel with history, stay at Casa Kimberly, the former home of Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton (you can also just stop by for a cocktail). Plus, the LGBTQ+-friendly downtown has an array of fun bars, restaurants, and cabarets (don't miss the Beyoncé impersonator), as well as affordable places to stay. We love Pinnacle Suites which is relatively inexpensive, especially if you're traveling with another couple.
Paris
We couldn’t write a romantic travel guide without including the City of Love, right? While we probably don’t need to sell you on Paris, we’ll give you a quick primer: Everything is beautiful. From the winding streets of Le Marais to the stunning art collections at Musée d’Orsay and the Louvre to the quiet elegance of the Seine River, it’s hard to turn a corner here without feeling amorous. And if you’re celebrating a special anniversary or just looking for a bit of a splurge trip, Hôtel de Crillon is jaw-droppingly romantic. Located in an iconic and historic building in the heart of the city at Place de La Concorde, the property is one of Paris’s grandes dames for good reason. For couples, indulgence is the key word here, from the bespoke treatments at Sense, a Rosewood Spa, to intimate private dinners at La Cave, to enormous suites, some of which were designed by Karl Lagerfeld. Don’t miss a meal at the brand-new restaurant, Nonos et Comestibles par Paul Pairet, helmed by one of France’s most acclaimed chefs. There's also the new Hôtel Dame des Arts in the Left Bank that features a beautiful rooftop bars with views for days. Celebrating a milestone anniversary? Also consider the Cheval Blanc Paris, which is, in a word très magnifique thanks to its stunning panoramic views of the Seine.
Wailea, Maui
You’re probably aware of the charms of the Hawaiian islands, and of Maui specifically, but we will direct you to our favorite part of the island: Wailea. With 1,500 acres of beaches and resorts and only 35 minutes from the Kahului Airport, it’s the idyllic spot for a romantic getaway. And no hotel in the area is better for couples than Hotel Wailea, an all-suite and—crucially—adults-only boutique property. For a once-in-a-lifetime dinner, book a meal in the hotel’s secluded treehouse, where couples can savor a seven-course meal while suspended among fragrant mango trees.
Mexico City
Mexico City is the most chameleon-like of cities, seemingly able to adapt to any sort of vacation, for any type of traveler. And with its charming, colorful streets, incredible yet inexpensive restaurants, plentiful mezcal, and temperate climate, it’s certainly top of mind for romantic weekend getaways. For a refuge that is both high-touch service but affordable, look into the charming Ignacia Guest House. With room for only 18 guests, it’s incredibly intimate, and it’s also filled with private terraces and fragrant gardens that can be the setting for clandestine kisses. Even better, it’s a proper bed-and-breakfast. Guests wake every morning to the smell of tortillas cooking on the griddle, and can sit down to a glass of orange juice freshly squeezed from the old-growth citrus trees on property.
New Orleans
.jpg)
If romance to you means excellent food and drink, and live music, then consider New Orleans. One of our favorite boutique hotels is also one of the city’s most inexpensive. International House, located just a few blocks away from the French Quarter, is inside a beautiful Beaux Arts building that is also the city’s first boutique hotel. The hotel can arrange a private cocktail experience at its award-winning bar, loa, or even a private Vodou ceremony, which includes creating a lucky charm for the couple.
Santa Barbara
While you can’t really say Prince Harry put Montecito and Santa Barbara on the map, we are finding ourselves more interested in the central California coast after he and Meghan Markle set up camp there a few years ago. Unfortunately, we can’t wrangle you a double date with the duo, but we can point you in the direction of one of Santa Barbara’s best hotels: Mar Monte. With three acres of Spanish-inspired grounds and a pool with oceanfront views, it’s the prime weekend getaway for romance. The hotel is also offering a special Mar Monte by Land and Sea package for the holiday, which includes a private flight, a three-hour wine tasting, and a private sunset charter on a yacht.
London
Elegant London, with its beautiful architecture, plentiful parks, and bountiful cultural activities (hello, West End), is one of our favorite cities for a romantic escape. And our preferred spot for a couples vacation is The Mayfair Townhouse, an intimate and stylish hotel that's primely located. Besides the attentive staff, we love the hotel’s on-site watering hole, The Dandy Bar, which is a great way to end a busy day of sightseeing (or begin the start of your evening). Couples looking for the utmost privacy and space should ask for the The Garden Suite, which comes with its own conservatory and patio. Or book a stay at the newly renovated, Dorchester in Mayfair which has an especially sexy site for sipping, the Vesper bar, which plays homage to James Bond.
Palmetto Bluff, South Carolina
There are few places we’ve visited that are imbued with a sense of calm like Palmetto Bluff, a secluded enclave of 20,000 acres in South Carolina’s Lowcountry. And with plenty of scenic walking paths, a stellar golf course, and tons of Southern-inflected restaurants, you won’t be bored, either. The area is also home to one of the state’s swankiest resorts: Montage Palmetto Bluff. A quick drive from either Savannah (another great couples escape) or Hilton Head, it’s ideal for a romantic getaway; on-site Spa Montage even has a whole section of the menu dedicated to couples. There you can indulge in everything from massages to the intriguingly named Lovers Jubilee, which includes an exfoliation, a soak, and a massage. And while we wouldn’t blame you if you were loath to leave your bed (they’re very comfortable), make sure you grab dinner at River House, the hotel’s delicious ode to Lowcountry cuisine.
Bahamas
Chances are, when you think of a romantic Caribbean destination, you’re picturing something in the Bahamas. Known for its crystal-clear ocean water, and 16 major islands offering a wealth of outdoor activities, it’s an excellent locale for a romantic vacation that involves equal doses of downtime and heart-pounding adventure. The islands are home to a wide range of properties, but if you’re looking to truly wow your sweetheart, make a beeline for The Ocean Club. Famed for its sprawling, white-sand beach, couples can opt for mega-sized rooms like Villa Residences or a bungalow complete with an infinity plunge pool.
New York City
Whether it's for the country’s top hotels, restaurants, theater productions, or museums, a romantic trip to New York City is the place to wow your significant other. And if you can snag a hotel room with a view of Central Park, there is hardly a more iconic way to spend your vacation. For the ultimate in classic New York hospitality, grab a room at the storied Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park. After its recent renovation, one of the city’s most elegant (and centrally located) properties is once again welcoming guests for romantic sojourns.
Georgetown, Washington, DC
Washington, DC’s Georgetown neighborhood, with its charming townhouses, excellent shopping, and superb restaurants, is one of the most vibrant areas in the entire city. And with the recent opening of Rosewood Washington, DC, and its unique Townhouse collection, now is a great time for a romantic escape. Couples who book one of these oversized accommodations are treated to a vacation in essentially a private home with room service on speed dial. There will also be a special Rosewood Romance package for the holiday, which includes Champagne and chocolate-covered strawberries on arrival. For a truly romantic outing, head to Martin's Tavern where JFK proposed to Jackie O.
Dominica
Known as the Caribbean’s “nature island,” Dominica may often be mistaken for its more famed neighbor, the Dominican Republic, but the names are really where the similarities end for these two islands. The unmatched beauty of Dominica’s landscape makes it one of the most soothing places to visit for a tropical vacation. And there is no hotel more romantic on the island than Secret Bay, whose all-villa room stock also makes it one of the most luxurious. Here couples can relax in their oversized bathtub for two or take a dip in their personal plunge pool followed by a relaxing hammock nap. And don’t look for menus at dinnertime: Your meals can be customized to your exact preferences. But if you’d rather not be bothered at all? Just stick the red flag outside your villa; the staff will make sure you get plenty of—ahem—alone time
Waikiki, Oahu
There may be nowhere more fun on Oahu than Waikiki. The south shore area of Honolulu is jam-packed with beautiful resorts, plenty of excellent shopping, and beautiful beaches with calm water. But finding a hotel in Waikiki that’s romantic, chic, and inexpensive was pretty much impossible until the recent opening of the über-charming Wayfinder. Located right in the center of town, the midcentury modern boutique property has rooms at a very budget-friendly rate, along with poolside suites and quirky, colorful decor. Enjoy a romantic night on your room’s private lanai, or take advantage of the hotel’s location for a quick stroll on the nearby beach. Insider tip: The poolside speakeasy, Lost + Found, is opening soon for tasty, tropical-themed cocktails.
Hudson Valley, New York
We all know that the Hudson Valley is having a moment. And unlike some of the popular beach towns close to New York City, this bucolic area just a few hours north of the metropolis has plenty to offer year-round, from skiing in the winter to stunning hiking in the summer. But until this fall, it lacked a true destination-worthy property; the kind of place you splurge on for a special anniversary or romantic weekend away. That all changed with the opening of Wildflower Farms, a peaceful retreat set against the stunning backdrop of the Shawangunk Ridge. The rooms here are all freestanding cabins, which makes them perfect for an intimate couples vacation, but there’s plenty to do on site as well, from sumptuous spa Thistle and steamy outdoor hot tubs to stellar farm-to-table cuisine from on-site restaurant Clay. Or, if you're looking for a more urban escape, shack up in an Airbnb in the town of Hudson, where restaurants, bars, and shopping will all be in walking distance.
Asheville, North Carolina
This lush city in North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains is as perfect for couples who like to take in nature (the hiking trails are next-level) as it is for those who prefer to…après-hike. There are as many scenic trails as there are breweries; plus, it has a bustling arts scene. Stay at the historic Omni Park Grove Inn to enjoy sweeping views of the stunning nature Asheville has to offer, or downtown for easy access to all the bars and restaurants—it's a totally walking-friendly city! If your love language is sharing a microbrew, it also has more than 40 fantastic breweries featuring great craft beer, and many offer live music and enough giant pretzels to help you soak up those IPAs.
Ios, Greece
While if you're traveling directly from the U.S. to Greece, this destination wouldn't exactly work for a weekend, but we'd be remiss if we didn't include a property that was quite literally built on love in this round-up. For a more laid-back holiday, the Greek island of Ios is known for its stunning remote beaches and archaeological sites. While you can find a vibrant party scene (nothing says romance quite like sharing a few cocktails on the sand and dancing till dawn), there are also ample places to relax. Situated in a mostly untapped area in what was once a hippie haven in the ’70s, the luxury resort Calilo was created with sustainability and privacy in mind. It offers 30 suites that are mindfully designed with features like heart-shaped plunge pools (hey, we said it was romantic), swim-up bars, and sumptuous daybeds. Each element of the property is infused with the love and creativity of the owners. a couple who have been operating Calio since 2019. If you’re lucky enough to catch an encounter with the Greek matriarch of the family-owned property, you might even get some sage words of marital wisdom (“Our philosophy? Create a life you can fall in love with”). This June the tranquil retreat will debut a three-story spa and wellness center and three additional state-of-the-art suites.
Charleston, South Carolina
For a destination that exudes Southern charm, has year-round lovely weather, and is the perfect city to while away the afternoon walking hand in hand on its famously beautiful streets, consider Charleston, where you can almost always snag affordable flights if you're coming from the East Coast. Stay the The Vendue, which is conveniently located near the harbor and the most picturesque Rainbow Row (guests can grab a free bike to help them explore). The hotel also happens to have one of the best rooftops in town to kick your feet up and take in a sunset and views of Charleston's iconic architecture.
