Often it’s the location that makes a special moment truly romantic: a sunset over the sea, a candlelit dinner in the desert, a campfire in the wilderness, or a stroll through historic monasteries and ruins. It’s said that love blossoms on vacation and while traveling, because new experiences and shared impressions sharpen our perception of one another and create shared memories that last a lifetime. So why not escape the everyday routine on Valentine’s Day or surprise your partner with the promise of a romantic trip? Whether it’s a Caribbean island paradise, an enchanting oriental destination, or a luxurious hideaway: these eleven destinations, experiences, and hotel resorts will spark romance and ignite love.
Gozo: Legends of Love Between Myth and Sea
Malta’s little sister is considered a tranquil retreat for romantics. Nestled among rolling hills, ancient olive groves, and turquoise bays, the island tells its own love story: Legend has it that Calypso, the nymph in love with Odysseus, hid near Ramla Bay. Today, couples enjoy magical sunsets over the cliffs of Ta‘ Ċenċ and moments of togetherness in typical Gozitan farmhouses. The restored, centuries-old stone houses now serve as boutique hotels, guesthouses, or private holiday homes. Characteristic features include lovingly designed courtyards, thick stone walls, wooden beams, roof terraces, and small pools: perfect for privacy and a sense of timeless connection.
Sicily: Intimacy Amidst Monastery Walls and Orange Groves
Italy, and Sicily in particular, has always exuded a unique kind of romance: warm light bathing ancient ruins, the scent of citrus in the air, and a landscape that blends history, nature, and the Mediterranean lifestyle. The island embodies the authentic Italy, a place where time seems to stand still and beauty reveals itself in the splendor of bygone eras. Add to that fine food, wine, and the lightness of life. This very feeling unfolds at the Dolce by Wyndham Siracusa. The former monastery, with its historic architecture, creates a tranquil, almost timelessly romantic atmosphere. Here, couples enjoy undisturbed strolls through the expansive gardens and orange groves, relaxing hours on the golf course, and long evenings that unfold without any time constraints. The hotel thus becomes a place where couples not only travel but consciously arrive together, enveloped by the authentic charm of Sicily, a sense of unspoiled nature, and the „Dolce Vita“ of Italy.
Casa Cook Rhodes
Island Retreats in the Mediterranean: The Lifestyle Hotels of Casa Cook
For Valentine’s Day, the Casa Cook hotel group invites couples to follow perhaps the most important impulse of love: to pause. In the consciously minimalist hideaways of this lifestyle hotel brand on Rhodes, Samos, in Egypt, or South Tyrol, slow living takes center stage. Time without distractions, places without haste, and an atmosphere that creates space for genuine intimacy. Like the timeless message of the well-known song „Stop! In the Name of Love,“ it’s not about deprivation, but about attentiveness—for each other, for the moment, for what truly matters. Whether enjoying breakfast together in the morning sun, relaxing by the pool, or experiencing quiet moments in nature: Casa Cook understands romance as conscious togetherness, far removed from routines and expectations.
Ras Al Khaimah: Desert Romance from One Thousand and One Nights
For a fairytale romance straight out of One Thousand and One Nights, the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah offers the perfect backdrop. Whether it’s a honeymoon, anniversary, or a spontaneous couples‘ getaway, this nature-rich emirate combines an oriental atmosphere with action-packed experiences that will leave a lasting impression. How about a thrilling ride along the world’s longest zip line, a 4×4 tour across fiery red dunes, or a camping adventure in the Jebel Jai mountains? Those seeking a more relaxed experience will also find plenty of opportunities to unwind or enjoy traditional experiences amidst the sea, desert, and mountains, from a tranquil day at the beach to luxurious spa moments and a hot air balloon ride over the endless landscapes. For true romance, try glamping under the stars, a candlelit dinner in the desert, or a couples massage with an ocean view. Ras Al Khaimah’s reputation as a special destination for couples, weddings, and special occasions is underscored by its hosting of the renowned Exotic Wedding Planning Conference. It’s a destination where love can truly blossom.
Thailand: Barefoot Luxury for Unforgettable Moments for Two
On the secluded white sands of Laem Tong beach, surrounded by emerald waters and lush tropical vegetation, the brand-new Outrigger Phi Phi Island Resort will open in spring 2026: a retreat for couples seeking tranquility, luxury, and undisturbed togetherness in the heart of Thailand’s island paradise. The 63 elegant suites and villas combine Far Eastern serenity with barefoot luxury: bright rooms, natural materials, and handcrafted furniture create an intimate atmosphere. In the Hilltop Pool Villas, couples enjoy private infinity pools with panoramic views of the Andaman Sea, while the Beachfront Pool Suites offer direct access to the ocean and breathtaking sunsets. Culinary delights await at Mala Kitchen, featuring exquisitely crafted regional flavors, while the Edgewater Bar & Grill invites guests to unwind with tropical cocktails by the water. Private cooking classes on the beach, pearl workshops, and eco-friendly island-hopping tours provide shared experiences far removed from everyday life. And for those who simply want to switch off, the Zeavola Spa offers soothing treatments and rituals for body and soul.
Maldives: Uninterrupted togetherness in the Indian Ocean
The Maldives are considered one of the dream destinations for couples, whether for a honeymoon or a romantic getaway. At Oblu Select Sangeli in the north of the Malé Atoll, they will find their own private paradise. Slightly off the main island lies the small adults-only One Banyan Island, which features a pool, two specialty restaurants with a bar, and the Elena Ayur Spa. From here, it’s just a few steps to the jetty, where six Honeymoon Ocean Suites are lined up. Designed as a retreat for couples, they entice guests with uninterrupted ocean views of the turquoise waters and a sunset that will be etched in their memories forever. Together, they can enjoy the warm tropical sun on the spacious terrace or in the crescent-shaped pool. The interior of the villa is also designed entirely for togetherness: with luxurious furnishings, playful details, and highlights such as a red bathtub and a huge round bed with a skylight that reveals the starry sky at the touch of a button.
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Aruba: Caribbean joie de vivre that ignites the heart
The „Happy Island“ of Aruba is synonymous with gently swaying palm trees on the beach, golden sunsets that bathe the sea in liquid light, and turquoise waters that invite you to dream. Here, life pulsates with a sunny energy that makes every experience even more intense – whether it’s dinner in a private beach house, a couples massage in the warm trade winds, or relaxing in a secluded cove. Aruba embodies warmth and hospitality, allowing couples to experience the Caribbean’s zest for life in a truly authentic way. Whether on a romantic stroll along the coast, snorkeling in sheltered bays, or exploring the wild nature of Arikok National Park, the island’s relaxed energy becomes palpable. Honeymoons, weddings by the sea, or a romantic marriage proposal become unforgettable experiences here.
Florida: Romantic Getaways in America’s Venice
Characterful neighborhoods, a diverse culinary scene, and year-round sunshine make Greater Fort Lauderdale an ideal destination for a romantic escape. Dreamy beaches, picturesque sunsets, and expansive waterways create the perfect setting for romantic strolls or a picnic by the sea. A ride on Riverfront Gondola Tours is especially romantic: Couples glide across the water in elegant gondolas modeled after Venetian gondolas, passing villas and luxurious yachts. Those who wish can combine the tour with a dinner cruise and enjoy first-class local cuisine right on the water. Active couples can begin their Valentine’s weekend with a sunset kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding tour. Tandem kayaking is also possible, creating a shared moment that combines experiencing nature with togetherness. Away from the water, America’s Venice invites further romantic discoveries: Las Olas Boulevard is considered Fort Lauderdale’s most vibrant promenade and delights with a mix of shopping, culture, and entertainment. Thanks to its mild climate, the region is an ideal travel destination all year round, even beyond Valentine’s Day.
Texas: Cowboy Romance, Live Music, and BBQ
Romantic Texas? Absolutely! While the US state isn’t exactly known as a typical destination for couples, it has plenty to offer in terms of romance. Big Bend National Park, for example, beckons with its sparkling starry skies, spectacular landscapes, secluded hikes, and romantic evenings around a campfire. In Palo Duro Canyon, couples can explore the colorful rock formations and the vastness of the canyon together on horseback. Austin provides electrifying moments with vibrant live music, relaxed date nights, and culinary delights like a shared BBQ in stylish restaurants. And the Hill Country offers couples‘ retreats, wine tastings, and cozy getaways in idyllic resorts. A perfect destination, then, to combine cowboy romance, tranquility, adventure, and indulgence.
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Toronto: City Romance, Culinary Delights, and Art
The classic candlelight dinner is a thing of the past: Toronto offers couples a wealth of romantic experiences. In the heart of this vibrant metropolis, the „Love Park“ in the Harbourfront area, with its heart-shaped pond, invites you to linger: a popular spot for a couple’s selfie. The city is particularly atmospheric in winter at Nathan Phillips Square, when dusk bathes the skyscrapers in golden light and couples glide hand in hand across the ice under the open sky. At the Gardiner Museum of Ceramic Art, couples can not only admire art but also get creative together with the „Learn & Make“ program. And as evening falls, head to the Distillery District, whose cobblestones, brick facades, and warm lantern light invite you to a relaxing stroll. Toronto’s culinary scene is equally diverse. At the restaurant „Taverne Bernhardt’s,“ couples can enjoy hearty comfort food made with seasonal, locally inspired ingredients in a cozy and stylish bistro atmosphere. „Aera“ offers a modern and romantic end to the evening: high above the city on the 38th floor, the restaurant serves a Valentine’s Day menu with breathtaking views of the skyline.
Houseboat Holidays: Freedom That Connects
Love truly takes flight on a houseboat, where couples embark on a journey that is both romantic and adventurous. Admittedly, you could simply relax on a secluded shoreline or anchorage: the private sundeck offers the best views, the berths are cozy, and the refrigerator can be stocked to your liking. But the real charm unfolds as the shoreline glides by and the scenery constantly changes. How about an exploration of the delightful Burgundy region or a getaway in the vast Mecklenburg Lake District? No matter where the journey takes you, all the comforts are always with you, allowing couples to fully dedicate themselves to the search for the perfect romantic spot. Conveniently, Le Boat’s modern houseboats are easy to navigate, even for just two people, and soon the experienced crew will be cruising along the most picturesque waterways of Europe or Canada.
