The best places to go for Valentine’s Day: romantic getaway ideas

With Valentine’s Day a month away and cold weather making us daydream of faraway places, there’s never been a better time to choose your next getaway. If you’re looking for the best places to go for Valentine’s Day, we’ve got you covered with our list of romantic destinations for couples.

As couples around the world get ready to go above and beyond to profess and celebrate their love, each year brings with it new ways and places to do so. That said, deciding where to spend Valentine’s Day can seem intimidating. From a classic dinner cruise in France to the lush backwaters of Kerala in India, countries worldwide offer many distinct ways to enjoy the day together.

Valentine’s Day inspiration: top romantic destinations for couples

Where should you and your loved one escape to this year? The possibilities are endless, whether you’re looking to spoil your partner with a romantic evening (or two) in a tropical destination or spend quality time overlooking quiet, rolling hills.

Sightseeing escapades for Valentine’s Day

Offering the perfect backdrop for Valentine’s sightseeing, Italy is a destination you’ll want to traverse together for a truly charming break. Hands down one of the world’s most romantic destinations for couples, it’s a lover’s paradise. We love the appeal of Venice, and visiting in February is a chance to embrace its off-season draws (fewer tourists and lower prices) while you spend quality time together. Embrace the air of attraction that February brings to Florence with trips to the Uffizi Gallery, the banks of the River Arno, and the Piazzale Michelangelo.

For a truly one-of-a-kind Valentine’s Day vacation that’s all about the sights, why not head for Norway? February is one of the best times to visit the country, and what better way to end a romantic day than by gazing at the northern lights side by side? Polar cities such as Tromsø and Bodø, and the iconic Lofoten Islands, each bring a unique flair.

Hedonistic Valentine’s Day experiences

Few cities in the world are as seductive as Buenos Aires – ramp up the romance with a trip encompassing it and the many other wonders of Argentina. These could include a wine-tasting session, learning to tango with the pros, and embarking on a moonlit trip to the iconic Iguazu Falls. Now that’s romance.

If it’s true that the way to win hearts is through the stomach, then a culinary tour of India should be a fail-safe recipe for love. The interweaving of culture, food, and regional identity is the focus of this trip, which shows off the gastronomic high points of Delhi, Agra, and Lucknow. Close off with Jaipur before heading south to Kerala, where you can further delight your senses on a serene houseboat tour of the backwaters.

Island-hopping for Valentine’s Day

How about an island-hopping adventure? Gliding through the azure ocean to paradise beaches – what could be more blissful? Cruising to lesser-known shores in Greece is relaxing and exciting in equal measure. Opportunities for authentic cultural pursuits are plentiful, while the beaches are heavenly and often empty.

The Philippines has a wealth of beauty waiting to be discovered by you and that special someone. Take a trip around the Visayas to be charmed by the wonderful seascapes and impressive culture, and savor a chance to spend time with tarsiers and explore the Chocolate Hills. Romance and exoticism, all at once.

Cultural adventures to share on Valentine’s Day

Unlocking the magic of a destination often involves diving headfirst into the local culture. Doing so with your loved one is second-to-none, and few places offer as much to see, do, and learn as Japan. Perfect for a Valentine’s Day weekend, the city of Kyoto is home to the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Fushimi Inari Shrine, and traditional tea ceremonies – each one perfect for getting to know each other and a different culture better.

Blending history and charm with cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, and an infectious local culture, Prague in the Czech Republic is one of the best places to visit for a Valentine’s Day trip. Walk hand-in-hand over the iconic Charles Bridge with views of the Vltava River and Prague Castle. Explore the romantic places of its Old Town, and indulge in delicious pastries and hot chocolate at a cozy cafe.

Read more: Cities to celebrate love around the world

Wildlife-watching on Valentine’s Day

The magic of sharing space with rare beasts under the African sun is an unforgettable experience. Delve into the national parks of Tanzania as you tour this magnificent country on safari. Admire the astonishing landscapes and majestic animals of three major safari areas, then to round off the perfect trip, soak up the sun for a few days on the idyllic island of Zanzibar, home to sugary sands and limpid waters.

See the highlights of Costa Rica’s finest wildlife havens, staying in small, charming lodgings for added romance. Hike through coastal rainforests and around volcanoes, swing through the treetops of the Monteverde Cloud Forest, and relax on wild beaches – it’ll be a Valentine’s Day you’ll never forget.

Create memories on a shared journey

A joint sense of achievement can tighten those bonds of togetherness, so why not set yourselves a challenge this Valentine’s Day with a heart-pumping trip to China? You could explore uncrowded stretches of the Great Wall on foot or try cycling through the magical karst scenery around Yangshuo. Taking back routes through peaceful villages and alongside enchanting rivers, the stresses of modern life will feel a million miles away.

Alternatively, wow your nearest and dearest with an unforgettable desert date night. One of Jordan’s standout attractions is Wadi Rum, a dramatic wilderness characterized by giant red rock formations that rise from the sand. Hike through the wadi and spend evenings in traditional Bedouin camps under starlit skies.

Splurge-worthy Valentine’s getaway destinations

Sweep your loved one off their feet with a luxurious weekend getaway to Madeira, Portugal. Thanks to its location, its warmer weather and stunning scenery make it one of the best for island indulgence. Sumptuous hotels are plentiful, you can treat yourself to high-end shopping, and the outdoor activities are second-to-none.

For an even more refined experience, book your Valentine’s Day trip to Zurich in Switzerland. A city that’s on many people’s bucket lists, treat yourselves to a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner along Lake Zurich. Learn about the art of making chocolate from world-famous Swiss chocolatiers or unwind with a couples spa day.

FAQs about the best places to visit for Valentine’s Day

If you still have lingering questions about where to spend a romantic Valentine’s Day getaway, keep reading as we answer some of the most popular ones.

Where is the best place to celebrate Valentine’s Day in the world?

This depends on personal preference, but there are plenty of amazing places worth your attention. Popular destinations like Italy, India, Spain, and the Greek Islands top most lists, but lesser-known options like Finland and Norway are also excellent.

What is the most popular thing to do on Valentine’s Day?

Celebrated activities on Valentine’s Day typically include going on a trip together, exchanging gifts and sweet treats, and romantic dinners. But more eclectic traditions can be explored away from home, like wine tasting in Bulgaria, trading wooden spoons in Wales, and cleaning your face in the snow in Romania.

Where is the most romantic place in Europe?

Europe is a fantastic place to visit for Valentine’s Day, with many captivating destinations to choose from. The most romantic places include Venice in Italy, Ljubljana in Slovenia, Opatija in Croatia, and Sintra in Portugal.

Make it happen

Which of these romantic destinations for couples will you choose to wow your Valentine with? To learn more about each one and browse our inspiring trip ideas, visit our destination pages. All itineraries can be tailored to suit your requirements; connect with our local experts for suggestions on extra-special romantic touches!