Anantara Ubud Bali Resort
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We have chosen nine destinations as the most romantic places in the world and they are: Paris for its timeless elegance, Venice for its romantic canal setting, Prague for its fairy-tale charm, Bali for its unique tropical charm, the Maldives for its overwater villa luxury, Seychelles for pristine beaches, Helsinki and Finnish Lapland for its Northern Lights backdrop, the Algarve for coastal relaxation, and Kyoto for its cultural and natural beauty.
These destinations represent romance in different ways, from cobblestone European streets to beautiful tropical beaches as well as backdrops like the Northern Lights or falling cherry blossoms. Choose what suits you best, whether it’s a charming city, secluded island or a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
We’ll explore each destination in more detail, revealing romantic experiences both iconic and hidden, the best places to stay, and what makes each place unique for couples. If you’re wondering where to celebrate Valentine’s Day around the world or simply looking for a romantic getaway, this guide will help you find the right match.
Paris, France
Paris, France - Timeless Elegance
Why is Paris perfect for couples?
Paris remains one of the most well-known and celebrated romantic destinations in the world because it offers couples diverse romantic experiences. Taking in the iconic cityscape around the Eiffel Tower or enjoying authentic croissants over a cup of coffee are simple pleasures open to all whilst exquisite Michelin-starred dining and luxury boutiques along the Champs-Elysees add memorable touches to special occasions.
For early risers, a stroll through the Trocadero Gardens before 7am to watch the sunrise with quieter views of the Eiffel Tower is a must-do in our books. Montmartre is a lively art hub with cobblestone streets that lead you to the Sacre-Coeur Basilica for a hilltop view of Paris, as well as the Love Wall, where ‘I Love You’ is written in numerous languages.
Paris is top-of-mind for many couples as it has defined romantic travel for decades now. The best time to visit is from April to June to enjoy the spring blooms in its public gardens or September through October when the summer crowds have left. For couples wondering where to celebrate Valentine's Day with classic European romance, Paris remains unmatched.
Junior Suite Family at NH Collection Paris Ponthieu Champs-Élysées
The NH Collection Paris Ponthieu Champs-Élysées places couples in one of the city’s most iconic districts, just moments from the iconic Champs-Élysées in Paris’ 8th arrondissement. From here, you are within walking distance from famous landmarks such as the Arc de Triomphe, the Grand Palais, with the famous Louvre and the Tuileries Garden just a pleasant stroll away. The Hotel combines contemporary comfort with classic Parisian style in this long-awaited debut in the French capital.
Venice, Italy
Venice, Italy - Canal Romance and Renaissance Splendour
Why is Venice perfect for couples?
Venice stands apart as one of the most romantic places in the world because it stretches out entirely over water, with 118 islands connected by over 400 bridges. This unique setting is perfect for couples seeking romantic boat trips down centuries-old canals on gondolas or vaporettos as every journey feels more intimate and special. As a Renaissance cultural centre, Venice offers couples centuries of art, architecture, and history to explore together.
Book a private gondola ride at sunset to explore the smaller canals at a leisurely pace - avoid the Grand Canal and shared gondolas, as rubbing shoulders with other tourists in a busy canal kills the romantic mood. The most romantic gondola route passes The Doge’s Palace and under Bridge of Sighs. According to legend, couples who kiss under the Bridge of Sighs at sunset as the bells of St. Mark’s Campanile ring will be rewarded with eternal love. A 15-minute vaporetto ride to Murano Island to watch glass-blowing masters at work. Back in Venice proper, spend time strolling through the Castello or Dorsoduro neighbourhoods to discover quieter corners away from the crowds.
Of course, no trip to Italy is complete without sampling the local cuisine, and Venice’s bacari (local wine bars) serve cicchetti (small, tapas-like bites) to go with your ombra (Venetian wine). Cocktail-lovers won’t want to miss out on Harry’s Bar, birthplace of the Bellini cocktail.
Venice is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, so plan your visit carefully to avoid feeling overwhelmed by crowds. February is the best time for couples to visit as Venice prepares for Carnevale with its costume balls but if you prefer a quieter time then September through October is also a nice time to visit. It's one of the most enchanting ways to experience valentines day around the world. Here’s a crucial tip for couples: Venice transforms after 7pm when the day-trippers depart, revealing quieter canals, softly lit bridges, and the city's most romantic atmosphere.
Murano, Venice
Antica Fornace De Majo Restaurant & Terrace
The NH Collection Venezia Murano Villa occupies a historic Venetian villa on Murano Island, famous for glass-making since 1291. The property offers couples a peaceful retreat from Venice's crowds whilst remaining just a few minutes by vaporetto from St. Mark's Square. Lagoon-view gardens and a private boat dock provide serenity and exclusivity, and staying on Murano means you can explore the island's glass workshops and intimate restaurants without commuting from central Venice.
Charles Bridge over the Vltava River in Prague, Czech Republic
Prague, Czechia - Fairy-tale Architecture and Hidden Gardens
Why is Prague perfect for couples?
Prague delivers a fairly-tale setting, with its numerous architectural gems ranging from Gothic spires to baroque palaces, for couples to explore at their own pace. The 14th-century Charles Bridge connects the medieval Old Town with Prague Castle, the world’s largest ancient castle complex, while the Old Town Square Astronomical Clock continues to keep time since its completion in 1410. The whole scene is an example of how exceptionally well-preserved Prague’s architecture remains, leading to awe-inspiring sights for couples seeking a European aesthetic and rich history that few places can offer.
Starting early in the morning gives you a better view of the Charles Bridge and its 30 baroque statues as you’ll have more time and space to experience one of Prague’s most magical attractions. Prague Castle’s Royal Gardens are another vantage point for wide panoramic city views among its neatly manicured hedges but it’s a beautiful and romantic spot to get lost for a little while. The Waldenstein Garden continues this verdant theme with its baroque courtyards, replete with fountains and peacocks, providing that luxurious spark away from the more popular Prague tourist attractions.
If you’re looking for a more casual and hearty dining and nightlife experience then Prague’s traditional beer gardens and pubs fit the bill. These traditional establishments are very much a part of Czech culture and they offer delicious comfort food as well as pleasant city views. The best time to visit Prague is from May through June when the Prague Spring International Music Festival adds festivities to historic venues and the springtime beauty.
Splendid Neo-Renaissance
Hotel Lobby
The NH Collection Prague Carlo IV occupies a beautifully-restored 19th-century bank building near Wenceslas Square, which is an excellent location for visiting the Old Town Square (10-minute walk away) and the Charles Bridge (15-minute walk away). The Neo-Renaissance architecture and royal interiors showcase the best aspects of Prague’s Bohemian heritage, further leaning into that fairy-tale atmosphere. You can stroll to stunning Art Nouveau cafes like Cafe Imperial, the National Museum, traditional Czech restaurants serving svíčková (a traditional beef dish) and trdelník, a popular street pastry in Prague.
Rice terraces in Ubud
Bali, Indonesia - Tropical Culture and Spiritual Traditions
Why is Bali perfect for couples?
Bali is one of the best romantic places in the world, not “just” a tropical beach destination. It’s an island rooted in deep Hindu traditions that has embraced wellness and spirituality amid vibrant natural surroundings. Immerse yourselves in the island’s rich cultural traditions at its unique temples and festivals and reconnect through yoga retreats, couples’ spa treatments, and nature hikes through the jungle.
Trek up Mount Batur before dawn to enjoy the gorgeous view of Lake Batur and the volcanic landscape at sunrise. Visit Tanah Lot temple at sunset to experience an authentic Balinese sea temple a little after the day’s crowds have dispersed. Spend some quality time together getting a traditional Balinese couples’ massage or head to Sukawati Art Market to find local art to take home with you. Bali has all this to offer and much more, including relaxing days by the beach.
Bali's living Hindu culture distinguishes it from other tropical islands and its rich cultural heritage in art, dance, and music brings something different to the fore. Visit April through October to avoid rainy days, choosing Ubud for culture immersion, Seminyak for beach clubs, or Uluwatu for dramatic clifftop settings.
SANCTUARY OF PEACE for couples
Heated infinity pool overlooking the jungle and Mt. Agung
The Anantara Ubud Bali Resort is surrounded by rainforest, rice terraces and mountains, giving you a sense of peace and seclusion that you can always return to. While it is located 30 minutes north of Ubud, you’re still close enough to explore the galleries, temples and markets that this area is most well known for. If you’re not sure where to begin, ask the concierge for guided nature and cultural explorations arranged by the hotel. Unwind at the spa where Balinese healing traditions renew your body after a day of exploration.
Maldives is the perfect destination for couples
Maldives - Overwater Villas and Underwater Dining
Why Maldives is perfect for couples?
The Maldives are the ultimate honeymoon and romance getaway with its 1,190 islands and 26 coral atolls offering so many choices for an exclusive resort stay. Maldivian resorts are known for their overwater villas, white sand beaches and their luxury services. Most of the islands here have just one resort each, which is perfect for couples looking for more privacy.
Since each resort is on its own island, the island’s visitors will have access to some of the most unique marine wildlife encounters in the world, particularly from May through November when the world’s largest gathering of manta rays takes place in Hanifaru Bay every year. You can also go snorkeling and observe hawksbill turtles and reef sharks amongst many other sea creatures inhabiting the coral gardens.
SKY Rooftop Bar at Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas
Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas
The Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas is a remote and exclusive luxury resort that is a 35-minute seaplane ride away from the capital, Malé. Each of the resort’s villas and residences are spacious, private and tranquil spaces with diverse amenities such as infinity pools, glass-bottomed bathtubs and outdoor rain showers. The beach villas open out onto the powder-white sand beaches of the island whilst the overwater villas offer a unique experience of living right over the turquoise waters. These unique experiences make the resort a great place to celebrate honeymoons or special romantic milestones.
This resort has two truly unique attractions: SKY and SEA. SEA is the resort’s underwater restaurant where you can enjoy exquisite meals paired with wines from its 450-bottle wine cellar whilst tropical fish swim right by. SKY is a gorgeous overwater bar that’s perfect for sunset drinks and when darkness falls, you can watch the stars through the most powerful telescope in the Maldives. If you want a private dining experience then you must request the Designer Dining service so you can experience an intimate beach scene as a couple
Port Launay Beach on Mahé Island in the Seychelles
Seychelles - Dramatic Coastlines and Island Hopping
Why Seychelles is perfect for couples
The Seychelles ranks among the most romantic places in the world, a collection of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean with impressive natural features like massive granite boulders and white sand beaches arranged in formations not found anywhere else on Earth. It is a perfect destination for adventurous couples who want to enjoy stunning beaches as well as jungle hikes and natural beauty. Island-hopping to check out nature parks, hiking trails and rugged beaches are encouraged and if you want to relax for a while then the beaches here simply do not disappoint.
Be sure to visit Anse Source d'Argent on La Digue. It ranks as the world's most photographed beach, as its massive granite boulders frame the white sand beach to create a postcard-perfect backdrop for photographers. Vallée de Mai is a UNESCO World Heritage Site on Praslin as it protects ancient coco de mer palms, which hold the largest seed in the world. This lush rainforest is home to many endemic animal species, such as the Seychelles Black Parrot, so exploring the trails here is definitely worth your time. Sainte-Anne Marine National Park is known for its snorkelling as the coral gardens here are teeming with sea turtles and tropical fish. Back on Mahe, the Morne Seychellois National Park has a lovely hike up the archipelago’s highest peak, where you can enjoy panoramic views 905 metres above sea level.
The Seychelles offers a balance of beach relaxation and island exploration, where you can really get lost in this gorgeous tropical space. From hiking and encountering giant tortoises to eating the country’s sumptuous creole cuisine, the Seychelles has plenty to keep you occupied for a long stay. Be sure to visit from April through May or October through November when seas are calmer and there is no monsoon rain to disrupt your activities.
Secluded private pool villas at Anantara Maia Seychelles Villas
180-degree views of the Indian Ocean from the private villas
Anantara Maia Seychelles Villas is a truly exclusive resort destination with just 30 private pool villas cascading down Mahé's western hillside to a private beach. Every villa offers panoramic island and ocean views, a private infinity pool, and a dedicated Villa Host to attend to your every need.
The hotel can arrange helicopter tours for Aride Bird Reserve, a deserted island that is vital to seabird populations in the region where you can enjoy a picnic on the pristine sands. Other excursions include a day trip to Vallée de Mai on Praslin, a visit to the botanical gardens on Mahé to meet giant Aldabra tortoises or even a day trip to Anse Source d’Argent. For those seeking a more social atmosphere, Avani+ Barbarons Seychelles to the north of the island has recently undergone a transformation, now featuring three new restaurants and a lagoon-style pool.
Northern Lights in the Finnish Lapland
Helsinki and Finnish Lapland - Under the Northern Lights
Why are Helsinki and Finnish Lapland perfect for couples?
A romantic journey under the Northern Lights is surely a bucket-list trip for many couples, and Finland might be the best way to experience it. This trip starts in Helsinki, the nation’s capital and a hotspot for Nordic design sophistication, followed by a 2-hour flight to Rovaniemi in Lapland to spend time under the Arctic sky. Stay in glass igloos, take a husky sled ride across the snowy wilderness, and experience a real winter wonderland in Finland together.
In Lapland, the city of Rovaniemi is your gateway to the Arctic tundra but it is also the official hometown of Santa Claus. Spend some time getting into the holiday spirit at the Santa Claus Village, where you can meet the man himself as well as cross the Arctic Circle line that runs through the village. Head further up into the Arctic Circle to try out snow-based transportation and get deeper into the forests, you can choose from Siberian Husky-led sled rides, snowmobile rides, snowshoe treks, and even reindeer sleighs. There’s plenty of nature trails here to see the local wildlife living in this extraordinary climate and appreciate the beauty of the snowscape.
Spending a couple of nights in a glass-roofed igloo is definitely worth your while as you can spend time together in the remote wilderness and even experience the Northern Lights at length. Before departing back home, spend some time in Helsinki shopping at Nordic design boutiques in the Design District, staying warm in the cosy cafés along Esplanadi Park and spending some time in traditional Finnish saunas. The best time to visit Finland for its marvellous winter is December through February.
Beautifully preserved property in the heart of Helsinki
The NH Collection Helsinki Grand Hansa occupies a beautifully-restored Art Nouveau building within walking distance of Ateneum Art Museum, Helsinki Cathedral, Market Square, Esplanadi Park, and the Design District. This incredible location makes most of Helsinki’s attractions very accessible and saves you a lot of time. Don’t miss The Usva by Terhen Spa & Wellness as their traditional Finnish treatments and the unique sauna section will revive your body after spending hours in the cold outdoors.
The Algarve, Portugal’s southernmost region
Algarve, Portugal - Golden Cliffs and Sea Caves
Why is Algarve perfect for couples?
The Algarve is the southernmost region of mainland Portugal, covering almost the entirety of the southern Atlantic coastline. With over 300 days of annual sunshine, fresh seafood and charming locals, it has become a popular destination for summer holidays. However, it is also celebrated for coastal beauty, golden cliffs, turquoise waters and hidden beaches, which makes it a perfect getaway for couples who want to relax by the beach. A more affordable European beach destination than the French or Italian Riviera, the Algarve is ideal for longer stays by the beach.
You can spend your days resting under the warm sun, taking things at your own pace and eating freshly grilled sardines and prawns at the beachfront restaurants. Head down to Vilamoura and spend some time by terraces overlooking the yacht marina with some afternoon drinks. There is also a boat trip from Vilamoura to Benagil Cave that offers a wonderful way to enjoy the water and even dolphin spotting. Benagil Cave is a picturesque and naturally illuminated sea cave with a tiny hidden beach, a perfect backdrop for photos and some quiet time away from it all. Take an evening stroll through the clifftop Seven Hanging Valleys Trail and watch the sunset bathe the vibrant golden cliffs in warm light over the blue waters of the Atlantic.
There are excellent restaurants and vineyards to sample Portuguese wines and wonderful culinary traditions so take the time here to indulge yourself. The year-round, mild climate makes Algarve a reliable option but in our opinion, the best times to visit are from April through June or September through October when the peak summer crowds have gone home. Algarve is certainly a place where Valentine’s Day is celebrated and visiting during the winter months to enjoy some sunshine is appealing to couples seeking a romantic escape.
Located near Vilamoura Marina
Purobeach Beachfront
Tivoli Marina Vilamoura is perfectly positioned, overlooking Vilamoura’s elegant yacht marina and just a few steps away from the golden sands of Praia de Vilamoura. This sophisticated beach resort showcases the luxurious side of Algarve with its rooftop infinity pool and the Argo Cocktail Bar looking over the entire marina and seafront.
Tivoli Spa delivers couples' treatments and wellness facilities, whilst Purobeach Vilamoura offers an exclusive adults-only beach club experience. Four on-site restaurants cater to every mood, from casual poolside dining to Pepper's Steakhouse.
Kyoto was Japan's capital before Tokyo
Kyoto, Japan - Bamboo Groves and Temple Gardens
Why is Kyoto perfect for couples?
Kyoto’s historic setting creates a romantic atmosphere with its centuries-old temples, serene zen gardens and intimate cultural experiences. Couples seeking a peaceful yet beautiful backdrop to share together will enjoy Japanese culture firsthand as well as contemplative strolls through bamboo groves and forested hills. Kinkaku-ji’s golden pavilion, the red torii gates along Mount Inari, the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, and Ryoan-ji’s zen rock gardens are all popular attractions for any visit to Kyoto.
Start your day in Gion’s historic teahouses, where you can learn more about the intricacies of Japanese tea ceremonies and taste traditional matcha in its traditional setting. Dusk is a good time to visit the mountain paths and Fushimi Inari’s torii gate tunnels as day-trippers will have left Kyoto by then. Cherry blossom season is the perfect time for walking the Philosopher’s Path as couples can engage in a hanami gathering (a traditional picnic) to appreciate these delicate flowers. Head down narrow Pontocho Alley after sunset to choose from kaiseki restaurants, yakitori stalls, and international cuisine reflecting Kyoto's blend of tradition and cosmopolitan dining.
What sets Kyoto apart is its dedication to preserving Japan’s ancient buildings, traditions, and culture. The city has over 2000 temples and shrines making it stand out from Japan’s larger cities. However, this means both domestic and international tourists visit the city often. While the cherry blossom season from late March through April is beautiful it is also extremely crowded and it's the same with the autumn foliage in November. Kyoto could be a good place to celebrate Valentine’s Day as February or early December has fewer visitors than usual.
Japanese ryokan
Ryokan with traditional Japanese garden
Where to stay in Kyoto
Kyoto offers couples a choice between traditional ryokan and contemporary hotels. Ryokans provide intimate experiences with tatami-mat rooms, multi-course kaiseki dinners, and personalized service that feels worlds away from standard hotels. For couples seeking this authentic experience, properties in Gion and Higashiyama districts place you within walking distance of temples and teahouses. Contemporary hotels in downtown Kyoto offer modern comfort with easier access to public transport, whilst Arashiyama properties provide peaceful riverside settings near the bamboo grove.
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