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Our top tips for planning romantic vacations
Booking a couple’s retreat isn’t like taking a family vacation. You’ll have the flexibility to choose dates that work for you, including being able to take advantage of off-peak ticket prices for flights and even opting to stay at adult-only hotels, instead of choosing a more inclusive resort.
The first step to planning vacations is to decide how long you want to go away for. If you’re only taking a short vacation, you’ll want to stay closer to home or choose somewhere that’s located only a few hours away with frequent flights throughout the day. If you have a little extra time to play with, you could consider a long-haul destination in Europe or taking an extended break to somewhere like Carmel by the Sea, New Orleans, or Iceland.
The first step to planning vacations is to decide how long you want to go away for.
Photo by Ismail Mohamed – SoviLe on Unsplash
Once you’ve decided on the length of your trip, you can choose your destination and start considering your accommodation. A resort stay is the perfect way to kick back and relax if you’ve chosen a hot climate, but you may prefer private accommodation, like a city-centre apartment, if you’re taking a longer trip. Our filters make it easy to narrow your search with a range of accommodation options, including cozy cottages and spacious villas.
After booking your transport and accommodation, start researching potential activities and things to do. Tickets for attractions in busy cities like Los Angeles can sell out weeks in advance!
14 Romantic Weekend Vacations to Book in 2026
More of us are traveling than ever before, and 2026 travel trends are all about unplugging from technology, recharging our batteries, and leaning into nostalgia by rediscovering familiar places – the perfect recipe for a romantic vacation. We’ve used these trends as inspiration for our list of 14 of the most romantic places to book a holiday to in 2026, perfect for if you’re planning a Valentine’s Day getaway or even a surprise proposal.
1. Charleston, South Carolina
- Cozy luxury: The Meeting Street Inn
- Modern rooms: The Spectator Hotel
It’s easy to fall in love with Charleston, as it offers the best of southern hospitality.
Photo by Sean Pavone on Shutterstock
Charleston is a romantic destination you’ll often see in our travel guides for couples vacations. While it’s a historic city, it’s gained attention in recent years for its luxury boutique hotels and up-and-coming restaurants. It’s easy to fall in love with Charleston, as it offers the best of southern hospitality, whether you want to take a late-night horse-drawn carriage ride or stroll through Waterfront Park in Charleston’s downtown area. We love Charleston as an alternative to busier cities, such as New York or L.A., as you’ll have everything on your doorstep without the wall-to-wall tourist crowds.
2. Napa Valley, California
- In Napa: Andaz Napa, By Hyatt
- In Sonoma: The Lodge at Sonoma Resort
The best romantic vacation is one that reflects your interests as a couple; think of it as an elaborate date night. If you love to go out for dinner and toast each other with a special bottle of wine, then Napa Valley will be the ultimate romantic vacation for you. This area – and its neighbor, Sonoma – is the wine heartland of America.
If you love to go out for dinner, then Napa Valley will be the ultimate romantic vacation for you.
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Napa Valley (or Sonoma!) is one of our favorite places for vacations in California if you’re looking for a luxury two-night stay at a boutique hotel, where you can relax and unwind with delicious farm-to-table food and the chance to take a behind-the-scenes tour of wineries. If you’re celebrating a special occasion, consider splurging on the Napa Valley Wine Train, which dates back to 1864 and features a stunning Pullman train, serving up decadent cuisine, while you sample local wine and take in the views of local wineries. Alternatively, rent a car and visit Carmel By-The-Sea for the ultimate day trip.
3. Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Central location: Radisson Blu
- Budget-friendly: Inntel Hotels Amsterdam Zaandam
When it comes to a romantic European holiday, it’s easy to automatically default to cities like London, but Amsterdam is a great alternative if you want a cozier itinerary. Amsterdam feels even more romantic with its charming canals, narrow houses, and lively nighttime scene.
Amsterdam feels even more romantic with its charming canals, narrow houses, and lively nighttime scene.
Photo by Sean Pavone on Shutterstock
There’s something for everyone in Amsterdam, whether you’re an art lover who wants to explore the Van Gogh Museum or if you’re visiting the interactive Heineken Experience. Amsterdam is an up-and-coming European destination and is gaining popularity as somewhere that’s easy to navigate around (especially on two wheels!) with the perfect blend of historic architecture and contemporary museums. If you’re an LGBT+ couple, then the Netherlands deserves a spot at the top of your list as a friendly and open-minded country.
4. Maui, Hawaii
- Luxury resort: Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea
- Best mid-tier alternative: Mana Kai Maui Resort
Nothing beats an island vacation, and Maui is one of our favorite options for a long weekend getaway. Most of the resort hotels offer everything you need, from on-site amenities to swim-up bars, stunning nature views, and some of the best surfing conditions you’ll find anywhere in the world.
Maui is one of our favorite options for a long weekend getaway.
Photo by Benjamin R. on Unsplash
It’s no surprise that Maui is one of the most popular honeymoon destinations, giving you a little taste of paradise in the Pacific Ocean. While most of the hotels fall into the luxury category, you can also find more affordable condo alternatives if you’re working with a smaller budget.
5. Guadalajara, Mexico
- Central location: Hotel Morales Historical & Colonial Downtown Core
- Elevated luxury: Quinta Real Guadalajara
When we talk about Mexico, it’s easy for your brain to automatically think of Cancun and Mexico City – but there’s more to the country than just these tourist hotspots. Guadalajara is an up-and-coming location, as one of the key hosts of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and it blends historic charm with a vibrant culture and cobblestone streets that give the place an old-school feel.
Guadalajara is an up-and-coming location, and it blends historic charm with a vibrant culture and cobblestone streets.
Photo by Sergio Rodríguez on Unsplash
Guadalajara is a great alternative to a European vacation if you want a shorter getaway, and your money will usually go further here. You can expect the best cocktails to set you back around $7, compared to the $20+ you’ll pay in other countries.
6. Miami, Florida
- Oceanfront: Loews Miami Beach hotel – South Beach
- Central location: Kimpton EPIC Hotel by IHG
When it comes to romantic tropical getaways, Miami is at the top of our list. Although Miami is known for its nightlife, there are plenty of other activities to fill your itinerary, making it one of the best alternatives to New Orleans. Miami offers a little of everything, from horseback riding on the beach to paddleboarding, exploring the Perez Art Museum, and sampling the best Cuban coffee in Little Havana. It’s one of our favorite cities in Florida with restaurants to suit everyone’s tastebuds.
Miami offers accommodation to suit every couple.
Photo by Volodymyr TVERDOKHLIB on Shutterstock
We love that Miami offers accommodation to suit every couple, whether you want to splash out on one of the luxury resorts, like the Four Seasons, or if you want to rent a quiet little oceanfront apartment. If you want to get out on the water, there are plenty of sightseeing boat tours available, including sunset cruises at golden hour if you want to avoid the hot daytime temperatures.
7. Barcelona, Spain
- Adults only: Axel TWO Barcelona
- Central location: Hotel Salles Pere IV
Barcelona is a European destination that we talked a lot about in 2025, and it’s only set to become even more popular in 2026. This European city is a great choice for couples seeking a three-day trip, or as part of a multi-stop itinerary, as it offers everything from hot, sandy beaches to Gothic architecture and mouth-watering cuisine.
Barcelona is a great choice for couples seeking a three-day trip.
Photo by Ken Cheung on Unsplash
2026 is set to be a key year for Barcelona as it sees the completion of the main construction of the Basilica de la Sagrada Familia, which coincides with the 100th anniversary of the death of Gaudi, the building’s famous designer. Beyond the Gaudi architecture, you’ll want to spend at least one afternoon relaxing at Barceloneta Beach, while sports enthusiasts won’t pass up the opportunity to visit Spotify Camp Nou, the home stadium of FC Barcelona.
If you’re looking for something romantic to do, consider grabbing tickets to a traditional flamenco show or taking a cable car to Montjuïc Hill to enjoy panoramic views of Barcelona.
8. Sedona, Arizona
- Splurge worthy: L’Auberge de Sedona
- Best mid-tier alternative: Arabella Hotel Sedona
If you’re a couple who want to relax and unwind, then there’s nowhere better than Sedona in Arizona. This region is famous for its red rocks and is seen as a spiritual area, where you can expect plenty of hiking paths, yoga classes, and wellness retreats. It’s the perfect option if you’re a couple who loves to plan your vacations around the outdoors. This area is perfect for stargazing, mountain biking, and rock climbing.
If you’re a couple who want to relax and unwind, then there’s nowhere better than Sedona in Arizona.
Photo by Anthony Melone on Unsplash
There’s no shortage of resorts and spa facilities here, with L’Auberge de Sedona being one of the best known in the area. You don’t have to be an on-site guest with a room key to make a spa booking here, and you can choose from a range of holistic services, traditional massages, and healing treatments.
If you’re not a fan of humid climates, you’ll want to schedule your visit for the shoulder months of March and April or September and October. It’s also worth noting that you’ll likely want to hire a car as Sedona is over a 2-hour drive from Phoenix International Airport.
9. New York City, New York
- In Manhattan: Arlo NoMad
- In Brooklyn: CODA Williamsburg
When in doubt, New York is always a good choice. If you’re looking to grab a bargain, March is a great time for a belated Valentine’s Day getaway to one of America’s busiest cities. There’s plenty to fill your itinerary, from exploring the exhibitions at The Metropolitan Museum of Art to seeing the city from above at the Top of the Rock.
New York is always a good choice.
Photo by CK Foto on Shutterstock
If it’s your first time in NYC, you’ll want to grab tickets to a Broadway show to surprise your partner. Don’t waste your morning queueing up at the ticket office in Times Square and instead get your last-minute tickets on TodayTix, which also offers flash sales, rush tickets, and last-minute seats. You’ll also want to make your dining reservations in advance, especially if you’re looking to eat around Times Square. Grab a table at Bond 45 for a romantic pre-show meal, with cocktails inspired by popular musicals, or indulge in a little Broadway history at Sardi’s.
10. Iceland
- In Reykjavik: Grandi by Center Hotels
- Close to Blue Lagoon: The Retreat
Has your husband always dreamt of seeing the Northern Lights? Now is the chance! Early 2026 coincides with the peak time for this current solar cycle, meaning it’s easier to see the Northern Lights with the naked eye.
Iceland is one of the best places to go in search of the Northern Lights.
Photo by Smit on Shutterstock
While you can see them across different regions of the Northern Hemisphere, Iceland is one of the best places to go in search of this natural phenomenon. If you’re visiting during the summer, check if you can see the Midnight Sun instead, as this is when the country experiences almost 24 hours of daylight every day from Late May to early August.
Iceland is the ultimate choice for a romantic vacation if you’re a couple who loves to explore the outdoors, in all weather conditions! You’ll want to rent a car and take a scenic drive through the Icelandic countryside before spending an afternoon relaxing at the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa and exploring the black sand beaches in Reynisfjara.
11. Puerto Rico
- In San Juan: Hotel El Convento
- Adults only: Casa Lucienne
If you’re an American citizen looking for a romantic weekend holiday without needing to get a passport, then Puerto Rico is the perfect option! It’s one of the most popular Caribbean islands and offers everything from mountain hiking trails to sandy beaches for working up a tan. We also love Puerto Rico as a destination for couples who enjoy a tropical climate but don’t want it to be too hot during the day.
Puerto Rico is one of the most popular Caribbean islands and offers everything from mountain hiking trails to sandy beaches.
Photo by Adam Ramos Rodriguez on Shutterstock
San Juan is a great option for a romantic vacation, as you’ll find plenty of intimate dining locations and the cobblestone streets lead out onto hidden beaches and historic forts. If you’re an outdoorsy couple, head to El Yunque Rainforest or go kayaking at Mosquito Bay in the evening to see its bioluminescent bays.
12. Paris, France
- Budget-friendly: OKKO Hotels Paris Rosa Parks
- Close to the Eiffel Tower: Hotel Le Marquis
When it comes to romantic vacations, it’s impossible to overlook Paris – one of the most loved destinations by couples from all over the world. Known as “The City of Lovers”, there’s perhaps nowhere in the world more famous for its romance than the French capital.
Paris – one of the most loved destinations by couples from all over the world.
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This bucket list destination invites 50 million visitors every year to fall in love with its culture and cuisine, whether you want to indulge in hot, freshly baked croissants or watch the world go by on a dinner cruise on the River Seine. Paris is the perfect option for a milestone trip or if you’re surprising your partner with an overseas vacation.
13. Florence, Italy
- Central location: Hotel Cosimo De’Medici
- 5-Star luxury: The St. Regis Florence
Another romantic European location to consider is Florence. It’s a great alternative to cities like Paris and London if you or your partner are not a fan of crowds, but still want to experience a city with a rich culture and heritage. Florence feels like stepping into the pages of a history book with its UNESCO World Heritage Sites and incredible Renaissance architecture.
Florence feels like stepping into the pages of a history book.
Photo by Marian Brandt on Unsplash
You’ll want to grab a picnic and visit Piazzale Michelangelo at golden hour to enjoy the best views of the city. If you’re a romantic at heart, make sure to stop by the Church of Dante in the city center, famous for being where Dante first met Beatrice, with the church now being seen as a pilgrimage for lovers, with couples often leaving messages to Beatrice.
14. Morocco, North Africa
- Central location: Riad Argan
- 5-star luxury: Royal Mansour Marrakech
Our final recommendation to check out for a romantic getaway offers a change of speed, taking us all the way to North Africa. Morocco is a great choice if you’re more adventurous or a seasoned traveler looking to go somewhere hot for a winter holiday. While Marrakesh is the country’s most popular place, it serves as the key to exploring the romance of Casablanca and the tranquility of Chefchaouen.
Morocco is a great choice if you’re more adventurous.
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There’s no shortage of romantic experiences to add to your itinerary here, from surprising your husband with a hot air balloon ride over Marrakesh to biking through the Agafay Desert and even taking a camel ride at sunset. We also love Morocco for its wellness culture, and there’s plenty of spa experiences to indulge in, including couples’ massages.
Plan a Romantic Getaway in 2026 with ZenHotels
At ZenHotels, you can plan a romantic holiday anywhere in the world, whether your TikTok feed is full of videos of Iceland’s Blue Lagoon, you’re dreaming of a visit to a national park, or if you’re thinking of taking your husband on an anniversary trip to somewhere hot, like Carmel by the Sea.
At ZenHotels, you can plan a romantic holiday anywhere in the world.
Photo by Nikolai Maksimenkov on Unsplash
Are you looking for more ideas for your upcoming vacations? Explore top destinations on ZenHotels and get more expert-curated travel tips by visiting our blog.
