IN honour of St Valentine’s Day, the travel aficionados at Big 7 Travel have teamed up with EnjoyTravel to reveal the Best Places in the World for Couples in 2023.
The most romantic locations across the globe were ranked on several factors the team behind the list explains “including but not limited to; popular honeymoon and mega-moon destinations, the most loving countries, the most popular proposal spots, romantic things to do, and current travel trends that complement romance”.
And Ireland features at number 22 on the list, highlighted for its “romantic nooks and crannies everywhere you turn”.
“Ireland might be a small country, but there is loads to pack into an Irish romantic getaway,” they state.
“To fit as many enchanting forests, picturesque towns drenched in Celtic mysticism, and awe-inspiring views in your itinerary as possible, consider hiring a car and taking for the Wild Atlantic Way road trip,” they suggest.
Mexico tops the list, described as “interesting, cultural and beautiful” and “the number one spot for honeymoons worldwide”, followed by Buenos Aires in Argentina in second place and Paris, France third.
Here are Big 7 Travel and EnjoyTravel’s top 25 best places for couples in the world...
1. Mexico
Mexico is too vast, interesting, cultural, and beautiful to just see one part of the country. Travelling around Mexico is the best way to see it – discover fascinating Mayan ruins, take food tours around Mexico City, spend dreamy beach days on the Caribbean coast, go tequila tasting in Tequila, take cooking classes in Oaxaca, and much more, in one trip. Mexico is undoubtedly one of the world’s best places for couples – it’s the number one spot for honeymoons worldwide.
Most romantic thing to do in Mexico: Spend a few days on the beaches of Bacalar
2. Buenos Aires, Argentina
Nicknamed the Paris of South America, Buenos Aires is one of the best places for couples in the world. Romance is everywhere here, from the vibrant, artsy atmosphere to the passionate tango dancers. There’s always something going on in these bustling, cobblestone streets and broad boulevards. But if you want some alone time, take a sunset boat trip for two along the Rio de la Plata. The loving culture is by no means exclusive – Buenos Aires is one of the most LGBTQ+ inclusive cities in the world.
Most romantic thing to do in Buenos Aires: Take a tango dance lesson
3. Paris, France
What can be said about the City of Lights that hasn’t been said before? Paris is an all-time favourite among lovers for good reason. The genteel city is a gorgeous setting for hand-in-hand riverside walks, catching a smooth jazz band, candlelit dinners, and simply savouring the laidback Parisian lifestyle with your beau. Plus, honeymooners and betrothed couples get the royal treatment here, which is fortunate seeing as one in 500 proposals take place in Disneyland, Paris and one in 697 are in front of the Eiffel Tower.
Most romantic thing to do in Paris: Watch the Eiffel Tower shimmer at night, visit the Wall of Love, and enjoy a picnic in one of the many parks
4. Bequia, St Vincent
If having your own private island is your idea of the ideal romantic getaway, then this tropical destination gets you very close. Bequia spans just seven square miles with around 5,000 residents and no garish neon lights, no golf courses, no sprawling chain hotels, and no chain restaurants. The only way of life here is the slow life, embodying the old Caribbean. Find unspoiled beaches and stay in a seafront beach hut, just for you and your loved one. There are few places more idyllic for a honeymoon than this one – don’t just take our word for it, even Princess Margaret honeymooned in Bequia.
Most romantic thing to do in Bequia: Take a private safari island tour
5. Seville, Spain
Deeply romantic and sultry, Seville is a lover’s dream. It has the appeal of being harder to reach than other Spanish cities, so it’s much less commercialised or touristic. When 28% of luxury honeymoons take place in Europe, with many in search of that quintessential European experience, Seville’s intrinsic romance and authenticity places it on the list. Discover the tiny winding alleys, take a horse and carriage ride around the city, watch the sunset along the river, and visit sprawling gardens.
Most romantic thing to do in Seville: Catch an atmospheric flamenco show
6. Veneto, Italy
Home to Venice, Verona, Padova, and more, Veneto is Italy’s most romantic province. Venice and its idyllic canals is a popular couple’s destination all on its own, but the region has so much more to offer. The intimate city of Verona is intrinsically romantic, home of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. There are crowds around Juliet’s balcony, but that doesn’t dull its spark, surrounded by rose-tinted buildings and cobblestone streets that set the tone for love. Borghetto sul Mincio is a nearby village, bursting with storybook charm. The fairy tale setting is hard to believe, especially when taking in views of the Castello Scaligero. As though Veneto couldn’t get any more appealing, you’ll find several idyllic towns on the banks of Lake Garda.
Most romantic thing to do in Veneto: Hire a car and take a road trip around the province – visit quiet vineyards, take a gondola ride in Venice, and spend days on the pebbly beaches of Lake Garda
7. Maldives
The Maldives is considered a classic destination for honeymooners, and for good reason. The magical islands have all the ingredients of a tropical escape – sugary soft sands, palm-tree fringed beaches, turquoise waters, year-round good weather, and above all, peace and quiet. It’s the perfect place to get wrapped up in your loved one, with few other people around. That’s especially true if you splash out on a gorgeous over-water villa, even just for a night.
Most romantic thing to do in the Maldives: Enjoy a picnic on a private island or even stay for the night
8. Jordan
Jordan was named the top place to visit in 2023 for its adventurous pursuits, unearthly landscape, and rich history. It might not be a typical beach holiday honeymoon destination or a romantic city escape, but it has the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure. From staying in a sprawling resort along the Dead Sea to exploring the ancient pink-hued city of Petra, the excellent tourism infrastructure and special experiences make Jordan one of one the world’s best places for couples. Plus, the unique accommodation options (hello, glass domes in the desert) add to this unforgettable experience.
Most romantic thing to do in Jordan: Camp in the Wadi Rum desert valley
9. Santorini, Greece
You could find romance anywhere in Greece, but Santorini’s plunging cliffsides and dramatic scenery is a no-brainer for lovers. Particularly popular for destination weddings and honeymoons, Santorini is a sparkling gem in the Cyclades. Stroll through marbled, narrow pathways and catch the spell-binding views of the caldera everywhere you look. The island was practically made for couples, with romantic accommodation options aplenty.
Most romantic thing to do in Santorini: Watch the sunset from the hilltop of Oia
10. Cappadocia, Turkey
In Cappadocia, love really is in the air. With pink-hued skies dotted with hot air balloons, fascinating rock formations, known as ‘fairy chimneys’, and unique cave hotels, Cappadocia is one of the best places for couples in the world. The intrinsically romantic and whimsical region was made for lovers, nestled between the rugged Taurus Mountains. The brightly coloured hot air balloons might be the main attraction here, but love birds can take romantic moonlit takes and ride horses through the fairy chimney formations.
Most romantic thing to do in Cappadocia: Take a hot air balloon ride at sunrise
11. Hawaii
Hawaii is the quintessential honeymoon destination – its palm tree-rich islands are the romantic setting for 12% of all honeymoons. With the perfect balance of relaxation, adventure, and culture, it’s not hard to see why it’s a favourite among lovebirds. Whether you want to spend a week or two wrapped up in each other on a secluded beach and enjoy relaxed spa days or hike up forest-dense mountains, you’ll rediscover the meaning of romance in Hawaii.
Most romantic thing to do in Hawaii: Channel your inner adventurer with waterfall rappelling
12. Norway
Norway has crept up in popularity over the past few years, with more travellers searching for activity-filled, once-in-a-lifetime trips. That makes it an excellent choice for couples in search of romantic, adventurous holidays to share lifelong memories. Stay in cute, cosy towns like Bergen, or hire a car and travel around to see all the best bits. Catch the Northern Lights, go on insanely beautiful hikes, book a whale safari, and take a serene boat ride through the fjords.
Most romantic thing to do in Norway: Stay overnight in a glass igloo and watch the Northern Lights from bed
13. San Pedro de Atacama, Chile
With a deeply romantic atmosphere, Chile is one of the best places for couples in the world and this small town in the red-hued Atamaca Desert is bursting with romance. As well as being jaw-dropping stunning, the otherworldly landscape is full of activities for you to enjoy with your beau. Hike through sandstone canyons, spot flamingos in the salt flats, relax in hot springs, and take a dip in the ethereal Laguna Verde.
Most romantic thing to do in San Pedro: Catch the sunrise across the unusual landscape of the Atacama Desert
14. Seychelles
The archipelago of Seychelles is the pinnacle of tropical luxury. Swap between sipping champagne and coconuts all day, take a helicopter ride over the islands, sail on a luxury yacht, and finish off the day with a candlelit dinner on the beach. With so many romantic activities, it was practically made for couples. There’s even a particular spot on Raffles’ beach that has a reputation for proposals.
Most romantic thing to do in Seychelles: Indulge in a couple’s massage in the tropics
15. New York City, USA
The Big Apple has a longstanding reputation as a romantic place, not least for the selection of rom-coms set here. It’s home to two of the world’s most popular proposals spots, Central Park and the Empire State Building. Even if you’re not planning on popping the question, there are a wealth of romantic things to do. The city has a unique energetic spirit – it’s exciting, fast-paced, and full of activities. Dine in a superb rooftop restaurant and soak in the famous skyline, before catching a show on Broadway. If you really want to dial up the romance, you can take a swanky helicopter ride to Niagara Falls.
Most romantic thing to do in New York City: Spend a day exploring Central Park – have a sunny picnic on the grass, take a horse and carriage around the park, take a gondola ride on the lake
16. Koh Kood, Thailand
The Thai islands aren’t all neon face paint and diluted drinks in colourful buckets. Many of the islands have managed to steer clear of that reputation, and Koh Kood is perhaps the prettiest of them all. Despite being the sixth largest island in Thailand, it’s relatively unknown and tourist-free. It’s the ideal destination for couples who simply want to enjoy the spoils of tropical life, with busier islands within easy reach too. Explore the lush jungle, swim under waterfalls, and do little else but relax on palm tree-fringed beaches.
17. The Highlands, Scotland
Eye-popping scenery, unspoilt landscapes, and charming villages – the Highlands is the perfect getaway for a couple with a love of adventure. UK train travel has been on the rise for megamoon destinations for several reasons – it’s nostalgic, the train rides are beautiful, and it’s better for the planet. What better place to dabble in slow, train travel than the Highlands? Stop off in Glen Coe, visit the Eilean Donan Castle, climb Ben Nevis, and explore the charming, old towns.
Most romantic thing to do in the Highlands: Take the Jacobite steam train to Mallaig
18. Arizona, USA
A haven for outdoorsy couples, Arizona has one of the most romantic landscapes in the US. The main draw to Arizona is, of course, the Grand Canyon. Flagstaff is the closest city to the canyon, or you can sleep under the stars in Red Rock State Park to truly be alone. The state’s colourful capital is a must-see, too – stroll hand-in-hand through Pheonix’s Desert Botanical Garden, hike through South Mountain Park & Preserve, and sample the night’s pulsating nightlife.
Most romantic thing to do in Arizona: Take in the view from one of the Grand Canyon’s viewpoints
19. Hoi An, Vietnam
As one of the most picturesque places in Southeast Asia, Hoi An is a treasure trove of romantic activities. Even just strolling around the old town, surrounded by colourful buildings, hanging lanterns, and the unmistakable scent of Vietnamese food hanging in the air, makes Hoi An worth the trip. If you want a break from the bustling but charming town, take a lovely bike ride though the luscious rice paddies.
Most romantic thing to do in Hoi An: Take a lantern boat ride
20. Bavaria, Germany
With towns that are straight out of a storybook and castles that’ll make you believe in fairy tales, Bavaria is a beautiful place to visit with your loved one. The medieval town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber is well-preserved and utterly enchanting, with half-timbered houses and small cobblestone streets. Culture enthusiasts will love the museums, galleries, and sights of Munich nearly as much as ending the day in a traditional, cheerful beer hall. The towns and cities of Bavaria are beautiful, with a charming and unique culture, but don’t miss out on the enchanting nature. Swim in the emerald green lake of Königssee, hike up Zugspitze, and visit rolling vineyards.
Most romantic thing to do in Bavaria: Be swept off your feet by the Neuschwanstein Castle
20. Indonesia
Bali might be Indonesia’s most popular island, but the archipelago is a tropical adventure waiting to happen. With turquoise seas that rival the Maldives, the Raja Ampat islands are a treasure trove of palm tree-fringed beaches, varied marine life, colourful coral reefs, and beachfront huts. Maratua is another island that’ll take your breath away, with paradisical over-water bungalows without the Maldives price tag. For a destination with slightly more lodging, nightlife, and restaurant options, head to Indonesia’s most popular honeymoon destination – Gili Meno.
Most romantic thing to do in Indonesia: Climb up Mount Batur to catch sunrise before relaxing in the natural hot springs by the mountain
22. Ireland
Ireland is steeped in folklore and ancient love stories, with romantic nooks and crannies everywhere you turn. From the wild mountains to old country estates along the coast, the fairy tale landscape will sweep you off your feet. Ireland might be a small country, but there is loads to pack into an Irish romantic getaway. To fit as many enchanting forests, picturesque towns drenched in Celtic mysticism, and awe-inspiring views in your itinerary as possible, consider hiring a car and taking for the Wild Atlantic Way road trip.
Most romantic thing to do in Ireland: Take on the Wild Atlantic Way road trip
23. Marrakech, Morocco
Morocco’s so-called Red City is even nicknamed with love in mind. The beautiful scenery, romantic riad accommodations, delicious food, colourful tiled squares, and so much more, all set among the backdrop of the Atlas Mountains, make this one of the world’s best places to go for couples. The city is a popular choice for honeymooners and romantic weekends away – take a day trip to the snow-capped mountains, explore the vibrant medina, stroll through the souks, marvel at centuries-old palaces, and end your days with a sundowner on a rooftop bar.
Most romantic things to do in Marrakech: Indulge in a private couple’s hammam spa
24. Istanbul, Turkey
In a city so beautiful, romance is second nature. There’s so much to explore and see in Istanbul, but simply strolling along the Bosphorus, hand-in-hand, will be a memory captured forever. As the only city in the world to straddle two continents, you can be on one side of the Bosphorus and look out to either Asia or Europe, depending on where you are. Indulge in a private couple’s Turkish bath, enjoy a candlelit dinner at one of the many open-air restaurants, get lost in the Grand Bazaar, discover new foods, explore the famously beautiful mosques, and so much more.
Most romantic thing to do in Istanbul: Watch the sunset from a hillside rooftop terrace
25. Bora Bora
Bora Bora needs little introduction. It’s one of the world’s most beautiful and popular honeymoon destinations. Many of those in search of luxury flock to this paradisical South Pacific Island to celebrate their nuptials – 11%, in fact. It’s a slice of heaven on earth, where the sea is crystal clear and the sand is pearly white. The tropical destination of lush mountains and pristine beaches is the perfect setting for spending a week or two of doing very little.
Most romantic thing to do in Bora Bora: Take a private sunset cruise
For Big 7 Travel and EnjoyTravel’s complete list of the top 50 best places for couples in the world, take a look at it here.
