12 Absolutely Breathtaking Places for Honeymoons

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Getting married was amazing, but picking where to go for our honeymoon? That was tough! After years of exploring the world (and helping countless couples plan their dream trips), I’ve learned that the perfect honeymoon spot needs that special magic—you know, the kind that makes you both go “wow” the moment you arrive. And trust me, I’ve found some ridiculously beautiful places for honeymoons that’ll do exactly that.

Picture this: my husband and I spent our own honeymoon watching the sunset from a private pool villa in the Maldives, and I still get goosebumps thinking about it. From overwater bungalows to Italian wine country views, here are 12 incredible destinations that’ll kick off married life in the most unforgettable way.

Best Places to Visit in the World for Honeymoons

Looking for the most enchanting destinations in the World for Honeymoons? Experience where Romance Meets Italian Elegance at Lake Como, Italy, relax on the pristine beaches of Turks & Caicos, and escape to the breathtaking wilderness of Montana, USA. Wander through the whitewashed villages and stunning cliffs of Santorini, Greece, for a picture-perfect getaway. Whether you’re dreaming of luxury, adventure, or seaside bliss, here are the top honeymoon destinations in the World for Honeymoons.

1. Lake Como, Italy

• 📍 Location: Northern Italy, nestled in the foothills of the Alps, 40 minutes north of Milan
• 🏆 Best For: Luxury travelers 💎, romantic getaways 💑, architecture enthusiasts 🏰
• 📸 Top Experiences: Touring historic villas and gardens, ferry-hopping between charming lakeside towns, dining with panoramic lake views
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May through October for pleasant weather and outdoor dining, with September offering fewer crowds 🍂
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Grand Hotel Tremezzo – Historic lakefront palace with a floating pool and terraces overlooking Bellagio

Aristocratic villas and lush gardens line the shores of Lake Como, where mountains plunge dramatically into crystalline waters. The charming towns of Bellagio, Varenna, and Como each offer distinct personalities. Ferries connect these picturesque villages, creating perfect day-hopping adventures. Villa Carlotta’s botanical gardens reveal centuries-old statues hidden among rare plants and blooming camellias.

Book a table at a waterfront restaurant for sunset when the Alps turn pink and fishing boats return with the day’s catch. I’ve found early mornings best for exploring the Greenway del Lago hiking trail. Shoppers should seek out Como’s famous silks, produced here since the 14th century. Two full days allows for proper exploration, though you’ll inevitably plan your return before leaving.

• Read Next: Top Things to Do in Lake Como, Italy

2. Turks & Caicos

• 📍 Location: Caribbean, 575 miles southeast of Miami, consisting of 40 islands and cays
• 🏆 Best For: Beach lovers 🏖️, snorkelers 🤿, luxury seekers 💫
• 📸 Top Experiences: Swimming at Grace Bay Beach, snorkeling along coral reefs, island-hopping to secluded cays
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: December through April for dry, sunny days and perfect 75-85°F temperatures ☀️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: COMO Parrot Cay – Private island resort where attentive staff remember your preferences and villas open onto pristine sand

Powder-fine sand and electric-blue water make Grace Bay Beach consistently rank among the world’s best beaches. The archipelago sits at the edge of the third-largest coral reef system globally. Even beginners can spot turtles, rays, and tropical fish at Smith’s Reef. Local boaters offer day trips to uninhabited West Caicos and Salt Cay, where you’ll likely have entire beaches to yourself.

Don’t miss the Thursday night Fish Fry at Bight Park for the island’s best local scene. I’ve tasted conch prepared dozens of ways here, from fritters to salad, always freshest at small roadside stands. Water visibility often exceeds 100 feet, making underwater photography particularly rewarding. Rent a car to explore beyond resort areas, where salt ponds attract flamingos and local restaurants serve authentic cuisine.

• Read Next: Top Places to Visit in the Caribbean

3. Montana, USA

• 📍 Location: Northwestern United States, bordering Canada, with Glacier National Park in the north and Yellowstone in the south
• 🏆 Best For: Outdoor adventurers 🏔️, wildlife enthusiasts 🦬, solitude seekers 🌲
• 📸 Top Experiences: Driving Going-to-the-Sun Road, fly fishing blue-ribbon trout streams, wildlife watching in vast valleys
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June through September for alpine access, with July-August offering wildflowers but crowds 🌼
• 🏨 Where to Stay: The Ranch at Rock Creek – Working dude ranch where wilderness luxury means fly fishing by day and hot tub soaks by night

Raw wilderness dominates Montana, where jagged peaks tower over wildflower meadows and grizzlies still roam free. The legendary Going-to-the-Sun Road cuts through Glacier National Park, offering access to alpine lakes and trails. The town of Whitefish provides excellent dining, local craft beer, and mountain-town charm without pretension. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound in Lamar Valley, nicknamed “America’s Serengeti” for its concentration of bison and wolves.

Early mornings offer magic here, with mist rising from valleys and moose feeding in glassy lakes. I’ve watched expert fly fishermen work the Madison River with an artistry bordering on meditation. Local steakhouses serve bison and elk alongside craft whiskeys from regional distilleries. Montana rewards patience and silence, qualities increasingly rare in our connected world.

4. Santorini, Greece

• 📍 Location: Cyclades islands in the Aegean Sea, 120 miles southeast of mainland Greece
• 🏆 Best For: Photographers 📸, sunset chasers 🌅, honeymooners 💑
• 📸 Top Experiences: Watching the sunset from Oia, exploring ancient ruins, sailing the caldera’s crystal waters
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May-June and September-October for perfect weather without peak crowds or heat 🌞
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Katikies Hotel – Cliffside suites with private plunge pools and breakfast featuring local honey, yogurt, and still-warm bread

Brilliant white buildings cling to volcanic cliffs on Santorini, creating the Mediterranean’s most dramatic landscape. The northern village of Oia dazzles with blue-domed churches and windmills cascading down to the sea. Early risers avoid cruise crowds and catch shopkeepers arranging displays of local crafts. The ancient Minoan settlement at Akrotiri reveals remarkably preserved frescoes beneath protective volcanic ash.

Sample crisp Assyrtiko wines grown in the island’s mineral-rich volcanic soil at cliffside wineries. I’ve watched sunsets from many places, but nothing compares to the collective hush that falls over Oia as the sun transforms the caldera. For less crowded views, climb to the fortress in Pyrgos or book a sunset sailing trip. Beachgoers should visit the dramatic red and black volcanic beaches on the eastern coast.

5. The Maldives

• 📍 Location: Indian Ocean, southwest of Sri Lanka, comprised of 26 atolls and over 1,000 coral islands
• 🏆 Best For: Overwater bungalow dreamers 🏝️, marine life enthusiasts 🐠, luxury escapists 🥂
• 📸 Top Experiences: Snorkeling with manta rays, staying in overwater villas, dining beneath the sea
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: November through April for dry season with perfect visibility for underwater adventures 🤿
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Soneva Jani – Innovative overwater villas with retractable roofs for stargazing and slides plunging directly into the lagoon

Perfect circles of white sand and palm trees float on water that shifts between fifteen distinct shades of blue in the Maldives. Each resort occupies its own private island, creating unmatched exclusivity. Overwater villas allow direct access to house reefs where clownfish, reef sharks, and rays create underwater neighborhoods. The clarity of the water creates nearly limitless visibility for snorkelers, with even beginners spotting turtles and vibrant coral gardens.

Night brings stars so bright they cast shadows and beaches that sometimes glow with bioluminescent plankton. I’ve watched dolphins play in resort wakes while sipping fresh coconut water at sunset. Many properties offer unique dining experiences, from underwater restaurants to private sandbank picnics. These fragile islands rise barely six feet above sea level, making their precarious beauty all the more precious.

6. Kyoto, Japan

• 📍 Location: Central Japan on Honshu Island, 2.5 hours from Tokyo via bullet train
• 🏆 Best For: Culture enthusiasts 🏯, garden lovers 🍵, photography aficionados 📸
• 📸 Top Experiences: Temple-hopping in historic districts, witnessing geisha in Gion, experiencing a traditional tea ceremony
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Late March-early April for cherry blossoms 🌸, November for spectacular autumn colors 🍁
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hoshinoya Kyoto – Riverside retreat accessible only by wooden boat, offering tatami-mat rooms and multi-course kaiseki dining

Centuries of tradition thrive in Kyoto, Japan’s cultural heart, where 1,600 Buddhist temples and 400 Shinto shrines create an atmospheric wonderland. The vermilion gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine climb a forested mountain in seemingly endless progression. The gleaming Golden Pavilion appears to float on its reflecting pond, particularly stunning when surrounded by autumn maples. Preserved wooden streets in the Gion district offer glimpses of geiko (Kyoto’s geisha) hurrying between appointments in elaborate kimono.

Traditional kaiseki meals showcase seasonal ingredients through multiple precise courses. I’ve watched master craftsmen practice skills passed down for fifteen generations in small workshops throughout the city. The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove creates an otherworldly green corridor that photographs cannot truly capture. For tranquility amid the city, wander the stone garden at Ryoan-ji Temple, designed to never reveal all fifteen stones from any single vantage point.

7. Tanzania & Zanzibar

• 📍 Location: East Africa, with Zanzibar being an archipelago 25 miles off Tanzania’s coast in the Indian Ocean
• 🏆 Best For: Safari enthusiasts 🦁, beach lovers 🏖️, culture explorers 🏛️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Witnessing the Great Migration in Serengeti, relaxing on Zanzibar’s pristine beaches, exploring Stone Town’s winding alleys
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June-October for wildlife viewing (dry season), January-February for calving season, year-round for Zanzibar beaches 🌞
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Ngorongoro Crater Lodge – Quirky luxury rooms where bathtubs overlook elephants grazing on the crater floor below

Lions stalk through golden grass mere yards from your vehicle in Tanzania. The migration’s rumbling hooves create nature’s most spectacular soundtrack while giraffes silhouette against fiery sunsets. Nothing prepares you for the moment a cheetah locks eyes with you across the savanna. The Ngorongoro Crater concentrates wildlife in a volcanic caldera for unparalleled viewing.

Offshore, Zanzibar has pristine beaches where warm turquoise waters meet powdery white sand. The narrow alleyways of Stone Town burst with history behind weathered wooden doors and bustling spice markets. I’ve walked beaches worldwide, but none match the perfect balance of cultural immersion and tropical relaxation found here. This combination of safari adventure and island paradise creates East Africa’s most compelling destination.

8. Big Island, Hawaii

• 📍 Location: The largest and southernmost island in the Hawaiian archipelago, 2,500 miles southwest of continental United States
• 🏆 Best For: Volcano chasers 🌋, star gazers 🔭, ocean adventurers 🏄‍♀️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Witnessing active lava flows at Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, snorkeling with manta rays, stargazing atop Mauna Kea
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Year-round, with slightly drier weather May-October, whale watching January-March 🐋
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Fairmont Orchid – Luxurious rooms where wild sea turtles regularly bask on the beach outside your patio

Molten lava pours into hissing ocean waters at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, creating new land before your eyes. Walk across still-warm lava fields where steam vents release the earth’s breath around you. The Big Island packs ten different climate zones into one island with emerald rainforests, black sand beaches, and snow-capped Mauna Kea all within reach.

Giant manta rays loop and somersault inches from your face in midnight-blue waters off Kona. The summit of Mauna Kea offers stargazing so spectacular the world’s premier observatories compete for space here. From swimming with wild dolphins to watching green sea turtles sunbathe on volcanic shores, this island rewards visitors with natural wonders most places can only dream about.

• Read Next: Top Things to Do in Hawaii

9. Fiji

• 📍 Location: South Pacific Ocean, approximately 1,300 miles northeast of New Zealand in the heart of Melanesia
• 🏆 Best For: Island hoppers 🏝️, diving enthusiasts 🤿, cultural travelers 🌺
• 📸 Top Experiences: Snorkeling pristine coral reefs, participating in a traditional kava ceremony, island hopping through the Yasawa chain
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May-October during the dry season for clearest waters and comfortable temperatures 🌊
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Likuliku Lagoon Resort – Fall asleep to waves lapping directly beneath your overwater bungalow while tropical fish dart through illuminated water

“Bula!” rings out everywhere in Fiji, usually followed by genuine laughter that melts away stress instantly. Float effortlessly above coral gardens at the Great Astrolabe Reef, where electric blue starfish contrast against vibrant coral formations. The water clarity here borders on supernatural, with visibility often exceeding 100 feet. Local villages welcome visitors with authentic kava ceremonies that forge connections transcending language barriers.

The Yasawa Islands offer pristine beaches often completely deserted except for hermit crabs leaving tiny tracks across perfect sand. Taveuni showcases waterfall-filled rainforests just a short boat ride from world-class diving sites. I’ve never found warmer hospitality than in these islands where fresh coconut water, grilled catch-of-the-day, and bright smiles come standard at every turn.

10. Bruges, Belgium

• 📍 Location: Northwestern Belgium, 1 hour from Brussels and 30 minutes from the North Sea coast
• 🏆 Best For: History enthusiasts 🏰, chocolate lovers 🍫, canal cruisers 🚣‍♀️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Climbing the Belfry Tower, taking a canal boat tour, sampling local chocolate and beer
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April-May for fewer crowds and blooming flowers, December for magical Christmas markets ❄️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel de Orangerie – Creaky floors and canal-side windows reveal 500 years of history while providing surprising modern comforts

Medieval Bruges captivates visitors with perfectly preserved Gothic architecture and swan-filled canals reflecting step-gabled houses. Climb 366 spiral steps up the Belfry Tower for panoramic views stretching to the countryside. The scent of fresh waffles and artisanal chocolate fills narrow cobblestone lanes barely wide enough for two to walk side by side.

Twilight transforms the city as lights reflect in still canal waters, doubling every architectural treasure in shimmering symmetry. Sample beer brewed by monks using centuries-old recipes at pubs near Minnewater Lake, paired perfectly with local cheeses. Horse-drawn carriages still traverse the Markt square lined with colorful guild houses and outdoor cafés. Few places maintain their medieval character so completely while offering world-class culinary experiences.

11. Banff, Canada

• 📍 Location: Alberta, Canada, 80 miles west of Calgary in the heart of the Canadian Rockies
• 🏆 Best For: Mountain adventurers 🏔️, wildlife spotters 🦌, photography enthusiasts 📸
• 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking to the Lake Agnes Tea House, wildlife watching in Bow Valley, soaking in Banff Upper Hot Springs
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June-August for hiking and lake activities, September-October for fall colors and fewer crowds 🍁
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Fairmont Banff Springs – Castle-like grandeur with vintage charm and mountain views that render television unnecessary

Lake Louise stuns visitors with intense turquoise waters perfectly mirroring surrounding peaks in Banff. The crisp alpine air carries pine scents and invigorating freshness unique to high elevations. Wildlife viewing comes guaranteed along Bow Valley Parkway where elk, bears, and bighorn sheep frequently appear right beside the road. Hiking trails lead to alpine meadows exploding with wildflowers during summer months.

Steaming Upper Hot Springs offers muscle-soothing mineral baths with spectacular mountain backdrops. Downtown Banff balances frontier charm with sophisticated dining, where locally sourced game and mountain ingredients take center stage. Nearby, Moraine Lake sits cradled by ten massive peaks, creating the iconic image once featured on Canadian currency. I’ve visited mountain destinations worldwide, but Banff’s accessibility to pristine wilderness remains unmatched.

12. Lord Howe Island, Australia

• 📍 Location: Tasman Sea, approximately 375 miles east of Australia, a 2-hour flight from Sydney or Brisbane
• 🏆 Best For: Nature lovers 🌿, snorkelers 🐠, peace seekers 🧘‍♀️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking Mount Gower, snorkeling the world’s southernmost coral reef, cycling the car-free roads
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: September-May for warmest waters and weather, November-February for bird watching when migratory species nest 🐦
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Capella Lodge – Floor-to-ceiling windows frame those iconic twin peaks, while outdoor showers under starlit skies create unforgettable memories

Twin mountains pierce the sky above turquoise waters on Lord Howe Island, where visitor numbers never exceed 400. The UNESCO-protected island harbors dozens of plant and animal species found nowhere else on Earth. Mount Gower rewards hikers with encounters with fearless endemic birds and panoramic ocean views stretching to the horizon. The strict population cap preserves the authentic island character that’s vanishing elsewhere.

Ned’s Beach has snorkeling adventures just steps from shore with fish so accustomed to humans they swarm around you seeking handouts. Cycle car-free roads past nesting seabirds to secluded coves completely devoid of footprints. This remote paradise strikes the perfect balance between essential comforts and genuine disconnection. Limited connectivity means conversations replace screen time, creating the increasingly rare experience of being fully present in paradise.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Most Beautiful Places in the World for Honeymoons

Looking to learn more about the most beautiful places in the world for honeymoons? Here are some common questions I get a lot about the best honeymoon destinations that the world has to offer.

1. How long should we go for our honeymoon?

The ideal honeymoon length varies, but typically, a 7 to 14-day trip allows enough time to relax, explore, and enjoy each other’s company without feeling rushed. If you’re planning to visit multiple destinations, like combining a safari in Tanzania with beach relaxation in Zanzibar, consider extending your honeymoon to fully experience each place.

2. Should we do more than one destination on our honeymoon?

Absolutely, if it fits your style! Multi-destination honeymoons, like exploring the cultural richness of Kyoto and then unwinding in the tropical paradise of Fiji, offer diverse experiences. It’s a great way to mix adventure with relaxation and get the most out of your trip.

3. When is the best time to visit The Maldives?

The ideal time to visit The Maldives is between November and April, during the dry season. You’ll enjoy clear skies, calm seas, and optimal conditions for snorkeling and diving. This period avoids the rainy season, ensuring your romantic beach getaways aren’t dampened by frequent showers.

4. Is The Maldives honeymoon worth it?

Absolutely! A honeymoon in The Maldives is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. With its overwater bungalows, private beaches, and stunning marine life, it offers unparalleled luxury and privacy. It’s perfect for couples seeking a romantic and exclusive getaway.

5. What are some must-do activities in Banff for honeymooners?

In Banff, don’t miss the chance to take a scenic gondola ride up Sulphur Mountain, enjoy a relaxing soak in the Banff Upper Hot Springs, and explore the breathtaking beauty of Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. For a unique experience, try a horseback ride through the mountains or a guided wildlife tour.

6. Can you recommend any romantic dining experiences in Santorini?

Santorini is famous for its cliffside restaurants with stunning caldera views. For a romantic dinner, try Ambrosia in Oia or The Athenian House in Imerovigli. Both offer exquisite Greek cuisine with a backdrop of spectacular sunsets, making for an unforgettable dining experience.

7. What makes Lord Howe Island a unique honeymoon destination?

Lord Howe Island stands out for its exclusivity and natural beauty. With visitor numbers limited to preserve its pristine environment, it offers a tranquil and intimate setting. The island’s unique blend of mountainous terrain, lush forests, and unspoiled beaches, along with activities like snorkeling in the world’s southernmost coral reef, make it a unique and memorable honeymoon spot.