Planning a trip with your other half can be stressful, and choosing the right place can make or break the holiday. Numerous questions will be running through your minds - is it romantic enough? Are there enough things to do? Are there places to relax? But don’t worry - this is exactly where we come in. Sit back and relax, because we here at Plum Guide are experts in all things travel, so you don't have to lift a finger. To help you decide on a destination, we’ve put together this guide on the best travel destinations for couples, so read on.
Hudson Valley, New York, USA
A view of the Hudson River by a cluster of green and orange trees on a sunny day, Hudson Valley, New York, USA
NYC’s own backyard is a nature-lover’s paradise, boasting beautiful gardens, vineyards, orchards, farms, mountain ranges, and lakes. It’s one of the US’s best travel destinations for couples looking to spend time outdoors. Those who want to get active can hike, cycle or climb in the Mohonk Nature Preserve, created to protect the Shawangunk Mountains. Nearby, the Minnewaska State Park has several waterfalls, sparkling lakes, sheer cliffs, and hardwood forests waiting to be explored.
There’s also plenty to do for couples who aren’t looking for anything too physical. Take a romantic stroll over the Walkway Over the Hudson for unforgettable views of the river and the picturesque villages on its bank, or get a taste of local life in bohemian towns like New Paltz and Woodstock. There are also numerous museums and galleries to visit, including the Motorcyclepedia Museum and the New York State Museum. At the end of the day, relax with a glass of local wine at one of the many wineries in the area - such as Brotherhood, America’s oldest winery.
Under The Ridge, Plum Guide home in Hudson Valley, USA
Bangkok, Thailand
An aerial view of colourful tents at a night market in Bangkok, Thailand
The invigorating sights, sounds, and smells of Bangkok are enough to spark romance in any couple. Start your journey at the Chao Phraya river, the main artery of the city. Watch water-taxis and rice barges sailing upstream, set against a backdrop of glittering temples. In fact, why not take a river cruise and sail past some of Bangkok's most beloved attractions, including Wat Arun, or the Temple of Dawn - for an extra romantic trip, many tour companies offer candlelit dinner cruises.
Make time to visit Bangkok’s floating markets, including the famous Damnoen Saduak, and the smaller (but more authentic) Amphawa. Try out local delicacies and fresh seafood, grilled precariously on wooden boats. One of the best ways to get a taste of Thailand’s culture is to take your partner on a date night to witness some of the city’s best cultural offerings - the spectacular Siam Niramit show is not one to miss, where actors and dancers tell the story of Thailand’s rich history and traditions. Finish the night off strong with a cocktail or two at the city’s many rooftop bars, which boast captivating views of Bangkok.
The Cotswolds, England, UK
A view of cottages and a country road in front of green trees, The Cotswolds, England, UK
Step into a fairytale book in one of England’s most romantic destinations. The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is known for its rolling green hills, sprawling pastures, and picturesque villages, and is the perfect place for couples who want a peaceful, relaxing getaway. Ambitious folk can uncover all of the Cotswolds’ natural beauty on the 102-mile long Cotswold Way. Otherwise take a gentle stroll through Batsford Arboretum, or roam around chocolate-box villages like Stow-on-the-Wold and Bourton-on-the-Water - the latter is described as the ‘Little Venice of the Cotswolds’.
If you’re visiting in the summer, don't miss visiting the lavender fields - take a scenic drive to Snowshill Lavender Farm to take photos and pick up lavender gifts. The Cotswolds has a long and established beer-making heritage, too, so if you and your partner are into your IPAs, visit Cotswold Brew Co and Gloucester Brewery for tours (and tasting sessions). Prefer a stronger tipple? Sip on gin and whisky at the Cotswolds Distillery instead - just don’t fight over whose turn it is to be designated driver.
Honeycomb Cottage, Plum Guide home in The Cotswolds, England, UK
Nicaragua
A view of a large body of water in front of Island Ometepe with a volcano, Nicaragua
For outdoor enthusiasts looking for relatively off-the-grid destinations, Nicaragua offers up so much natural beauty and biodiversity. Filled with cloud forests, volcanoes, jungles, lakes, and beaches, there are countless opportunities for adventure. Hike dormant volcanoes and see their beautiful crater lakes, or try sledding down mountains of ash at Cerro Negro. Couples in search of wildlife experiences can visit the many wildlife reserves, such as Bosawas Biosphere Reserve, which are home to all sorts of amazing wildlife - think jaguars, white-faced monkeys, and hundreds of bird species.
In between all that exploring, make time to chill on the many beaches on Nicaragua’s Caribbean and Pacific Ocean coastlines. Towns like San Juan del Sur are great places to chill out, known for their colourful architecture and surf scene. In the market for some ceramics? Visit the village of San Juan de Oriente, known as the ‘town of potters’. Artisans have been creating incredible pieces out of clay for centuries, so visit the various family-run shops to pick up a gift for your other half.
Madrid, Spain
A large water fountain lit up at night in front of a cathedral, Plaza de Cibeles, Madrid, Spain
Couples looking for a city break will love Madrid’s relaxed, romantic, and unpretentious atmosphere. The Spanish capital is full of grand buildings, green spaces, mouthwatering cuisine, and interesting culture to discover. Stroll down the boulevards of Paseo del Prado, or enjoy a spot of people-watching in any of the beautiful plazas - such as Plaza Olavide or the Plaza España. Spend a relaxing afternoon at Hammam Al Andalus, a traditional Arab bath where you and your other half can enjoy a massage (among various spa treatments).
Madrid is a foodie’s heaven (what’s not to love about a place that considers churros and hot chocolate a breakfast item?), and you can find delicacies on every street corner. Head to San Miguel Market to pick up an array of cheeses, seafood, meats, olives, and other specialities. If it’s a sunny day (there are over 300 of those per year), make your way to Retiro Park and picnic in the shade, rent a rowboat on the lake, or check out the art exhibits in the Victorian-style Palacio de Cristal.
Parlour Palms, Plum Guide home in Madrid, Spain
Oman
A view of Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque in Muscat, Oman
The word ‘romance’ even has ‘Oman’ in it - do you need any more convincing? For those looking for something a little different, Oman offers adventure in the form of soaring mountains, glistening sea, majestic sand dunes, and winding wadis. In the coastal capital of Muscat, admire the traditional architecture by wandering around the network of alleys, dipping into colourful souks to haggle over handicrafts. Head to the sea and take a romantic stroll down the Muttrah Corniche, stopping at one of the many restaurants for dinner with a view.
If adventure is on the itinerary, the Gulf of Oman is excellent for snorkelling and scuba diving - the Daymaniyat Islands are a particularly good spot. Located in a protected nature reserve, this archipelago boasts impossibly blue waters that dolphins, turtles, and eagle rays call home. On dry land, take a Bedouin style camel ride through the Sharqiyah Desert, and experience breathtaking sunsets. Amp up the romance and spend the night beneath the stars in a tented camp - just you and your loved one surrounded by vast desert.
Marche, Italy
A view of a vineyard and large green hills at sunset, Marche, Italy
Situated between the Apennine Mountains and the Adriatic Sea, Marche is one of the best travel destinations for couples wanting to explore Italy off the beaten path. Said to encapsulate all of Italy in one place, it comes as a surprise that this region is so underrated. On the plus side, it gives you plenty of breathing space to enjoy its pretty hill towns, gorgeous beaches, idyllic countryside, and sparkling sea.
Swing by the small town of Urbino, one of the major centres of Italian Renaissance. Wander down the narrow cobbled streets, and marvel at world-class Renaissance architecture and art. Many of Marche’s gems lie underneath the surface - the Frasassi Caves are one of Marche’s best attractions. This karst cave system has a series of remarkable rooms full of stalactites, stalagmites, and crystal clear ponds - one of them, the Ancona Abyss, could even fit Milan’s Duomo inside it without any problems (should you ever need to try). If all that exploring has worn down your shoes, you’re in luck - Marche is famous for its shoemaking tradition, so why not gift your other half with a pair of handmade luxury Italian footwear?
La Casetta, Plum Guide home in Umbria, Italy
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
A close up view of the christ the Redeemer stature against a blue sky, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
With its intense heat and hip-shaking samba, Brazil exudes sensuality. This exciting, charged atmosphere makes it the perfect place to travel to as a couple, and make memories that you’ll share for years to come. If you’re keen to get out and explore, there are plenty of vibrant neighbourhoods like Santa Teresa, Centro, and Lapa. Active couples can even hike up Pedra Bonita (Pretty Rock) for views over Tijuca Forest and Pedra da Gávea Mountain, or go for a refreshing swim in Cachoeira do Horto - a natural waterfall within Tijuca National Park.
Spend the day lounging around on Rio’s famous beaches Ipanema or Copacabana, sipping on caipirinhas, playing volleyball, or attempting stand-up paddle-boarding. Alternatively, take a quick boat trip to Ilha Grande (Big Island) for hiking, sunbathing, and swimming. Back on the mainland, take a cable car journey to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain for incredible sunset views. Come nightfall, put your dancing shoes on and head to Pedra do Sal, the birthplace of samba, for a groovy night.
Corsica, France
A view of clear blue water with large brown rocks and an arch, Calanches de Piana, Corsica, France
Couples in search of an island escape will love Corsica, a mountainous Mediterranean island made up of pristine forests, glittering sea, vibrant coastal cities, verdant valleys, and charming villages. Although it’s part of France, Corsica feels very different to the mainland, from its culture and food to music and language. There’s no shortage of things to do on the island, from getting active with hiking and canyoning, to spending lazy days snorkelling and sunbathing.
Corsica is full of romantic old towns where you wine, dine, and enjoy extensive coastal views. Admire the 16th-century Genoese walls in Porto Vecchio, relax in the marina at Calvi, or watch the sunset from the clifftop town of Bonifacio. Want some alone time with your beloved in nature? Scandola Nature Reserve offers some of the most unique sights on the island - hike up mountain trails, through lush forests, or along scenic coastlines. Hoping to get really romantic? Take a boat trip and see the red granite cliffs that soar high above the sea - if your partner doesn’t take your breath away, this will.
Luna Rossa, Plum Guide home in Calvi, France
Hoi An, Vietnam
A view of small boats on a canal near terraced houses at sunset, Hoi An, Vietnam
If you're still wondering where the best place to go with your girlfriend or boyfriend is, then you don't need to look much further - it doesn’t get much more romantic than Hoi An. Located on Vietnam’s central coast, this charming city is filled with elegant French colonial architecture, wooden Chinese shop houses, and picturesque canals framed by colourful glowing lanterns. Activities here are of the relaxed kind - stroll around the city, spend a day at An Bang Beach, or take a leisurely bicycle ride through the surrounding rice paddies - and catch a glimpse of traditional Vietnamese life.
After a day of sightseeing, give your feet a rest with a romantic cyclo ride around the city’s Old Town. The route usually takes you along the waterfront, so you can gaze at the reflections of the lanterns on the water and stop off at the riverside restaurants for a meal. In fact, why not take a gondola ride along the canals? If you’re lucky with the timing of your visit, you’ll even be surrounded by floating lanterns as part of the Full Moon Lantern Festival.
