13.14min read
Published 14 February 2022
Is there anything better than sharing bucket list destinations and new sights and sounds with your loved one? Read on for our massive list of holiday ideas for couples and romantic things to do around the world with your partner.
Trip #1: Bangkok city break
Take a bicycle tour to Bang Krachao, visit the city's floating markets and Samut Sakhon's floating vineyards, and treat yourselves to nights in trendy rooftop bars in one of the world's most romantic cities.
Trip #2: Relax in Hoi An
Stretch out on the beach at Cua Dai by day, stay for sunset and then hit the markets at night. Hoi An is UNESCO World Heritage-listed, and the rich culture and storybook charm will help dial up the romance.
Trip #3: Go on an expedition to Antarctica
Cruise line Hurtigruten specialises in once-in-a-lifetime arctic expeditions that will teach younger couples a lot about this unique environment. Scratch this romantic destination off your bucket list with arctic wildlife sightings, sea kayaking, camping, and more.
Trip #4: Experience Cartagena
While Colombia may seem far it's well worth the trip. Take a romantic trip to Cartagena and divide your time between this beautiful city and nature. Try exploring 16th century Old Town and making a romantic getaway out of taking a natural volcanic mud bath in Volcan de Lodo El Totoumo!
Trip #5: Visit Kakadu National Park
Another UNESCO World Heritage-listed holiday destination due to its incredible cultural and natural features, Kakadu is rich in Indigenous history. Take a tour with local Indigenous guides to learn about the area. You can also enjoy glamping and scenic flights to make is a real romantic getaway.
Trip #6: Catch the Northern Lights in Canada
Watching the Aurora Borealis with your loved one is incredibly romantic, and Canada is a great place to spot the lights and see stunning wildlife. Check out Indigenous-owned Beyond Boreal Expeditions. As well as aurora chasing, the company specialises in epic photo safaris in Churchill, Manitoba, berry picking trips and polar bear tours.
Trip #7: #VacationMode in Fiji
Aussie's love Fiji and its adults-only boutique resorts, including Tokoriki Island Resort. The luxury all-beachfront-villa property is one of the most romantic holiday destinations in the world. Perfect for quality time hammock snuggling, swimming and diving in tropical paradise.
Trip #8: Journey through Jordan
Embark on a mind-boggling sightseeing trip to the ancient city of Petra, the Dead Sea, Jerash, Wadi Rum conservation area, Mount Neba, Ma'in hot springs and more.
Trip #9: Warm up in Quebec City
Pile on the layers and spend a few days at the Carnaval du Quebec, one of the world's largest winter carnivals with parades, an ice canoe race and many other winter-themed attractions. For a once-in-a-lifetime experience, stay at Hôtel de Glace — a hotel made of ice.
Trip #10: Sing along in Saint Lucia
Saint Lucia has some of the best music festivals in the Caribbean, including the Saint Lucia Jazz Festival and the Roots and Soul Festival, featuring reggae, conscious hip-hop, Afropunk, and R&B.
Trip #11: Drive The Great Ocean Road
This iconic Aussie Road trip from Melbourne to Adelaide will take you past wave-gouged coastlines, the impressive Twelve Apostles and the Limestone Coast wine region. Enjoy diverse landscapes, wetlands and even the outback.
Trip #12: Get a Taste of Miami
Chow down on tacos, ceviche, and lobster overlooking Miami Beach. Hop on a guided walking tour of Little Havana's best eateries. From multi-cultural street food to menus by Michelin star chefs, Miami is always worth going for seconds.
Trip #13: Sip, sail, and snorkel through Croatia
Croatia's a remarkable travel destination for sun-seekers, Game of Thrones fans, history buffs, and nature lovers alike. Check out some of our favourite things to do throughout Croatia here.
Trip #14: Stay in a desert oasis in Peru
While the ancient city of Machu Picchu is one of the most famous attractions in Peru, there is plenty more to this incredible destination. Huacachina is South America's only natural desert oasis and the perfect place for sand-boarding, wine and pisco tastings, and unique photoshoots.
Trip #15: Go South
South Australia is a hidden gem holding its own with rich culture, history and surprising experiences. Immerse yourself in an incredible art scene, some of the best wines in the world, sandy beaches and Kangaroo Island, only a short trip away. There's a romantic holiday for any style of traveller.
Trip #16: Sail the Whitsundays
There's plenty to do close to home, and the Whitsundays is an absolute must for your travel wish list. Sail the high seas around Hamilton Island, find your own private island, camp under the stars, and snorkel to your heart's content.
Trip #17: Act like tourists in NYC
Grab a city pass and hit the town! You can embrace the Big Apple's classic attractions like the Empire State Building, Statue of Liberty, and museums and galleries. Read up on everything you need to know before you go here.
Trip #18: See it all in Shanghai
Visit a Korean bathhouse, sample the street food at Bund, Old Town Market, and the French Concession. Then tour Chongming Island's Dongping National Forest Park.
Trip #19: City Break in Athens
There's swimming in the riviera, skating at Latraac, exploring the Acropolis, and everything in between.
Trip #20: New Orleans foodie tours
Head to the French Quarter, America's oldest public market, and all throughout New Orleans for cajun country and Creole cuisine. Yum!
Trip #21: Cruise to Alaska
Another far-flung and otherworldly destination that is very worth the journey is Alaska. Choose from a plethora of fantastic Alaskan cruises and experiences from some of our favourite cruise lines.
Trip #22: Sunning and shopping in Seminyak
No matter your Bali holiday style, Seminyak must be on the itinerary. Sip cocktails by the Indian Ocean, pop into a yoga studio or enjoy a mini-shopping spree. Get inspired for your next Bali trip by taking our quiz.
Trip #23: Bordeaux by the glass
Experience some of the world's most revered wines in beautiful Bordeaux, France.
Trip #24: Stay in a villa on the Amalfi Coast
The holiday destinations along Italy's Amalfi Coast let you enjoy views of pastel covered cliffs and stunning white sand beaches. Perfect your stay and head to the isle of Capri, the jewel in the Crown of the Amalfi Coast!
Trip #25: Hit the road in Trinidad & Tobago
If the Caribbean's first and largest Carnival isn't already on your travel wish list, it should be! Plan your visit a year or two in advance so you can be sure to enjoy the bacchanal to its fullest.
Trip #26: Fall in love with London
A working holiday in London is an Aussie rite of passage, but there are plenty of opportunities for romantic holiday in this well-loved capital. Try a tour of the Harry Potter Studio, music-inspired walking tours, and Bustronome: part coach tour, part gourmet dinner. Live like locals do with some great ideas here.
Trip #27: Soak up the culture of Seville
This Spanish city has so much to appreciate: the Feria de Abril festival, flamenco performances, tours of Plaza de Espana, gothic architecture, and Andalusian cuisine.
Trip #28: Stockholm city break
Have your fill of Swedish eats: crayfish, räkmacka shrimp sandwiches, meatballs, and sugary semla. Stockholm offers outdoor pursuits, fascinating Viking history, and plenty of museums and galleries to explore.
Trip #29: Life in Lisbon
Between fado shows, tuk-tuk tours around the city, and sunset cruises along the coast, there's never a dull moment in Lisbon.
Trip #30: Be captivated by Cappadocia
The photos of the hot air balloons over the rocky terrain are iconic, and make this one of the most romantic destinations in the world This fascinating Turkish city has plenty more to experience with cave house stays and tours of wineries, museums, and more.
Trip #32: Escape in Edinburgh
Take a romantic stroll through the historic Scottish capital, and you'll see the city has much to offer including the Royal Mile, Calton Hill, Harry Potter History, and the iconic Edinburgh castle. Don't miss Hogmanay over New Year's and ring in the new year with a kiss and fireworks.
Trip #33: Beijing for the history buff
Make a point of seeing all eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Beijing, including an overnight camping trip on the Great Wall of China! Here are things you need before you go.
Trip #34: Escape to the Dutch countryside
Visit Giethoorn, a car-free village in the Netherlands, for a quiet vacation spent boating along the canals, biking around farmhouses, and enjoying fun pursuits like archery and minigolf.
Trip #35: Drive to Isle of Skye
After a breathtakingly scenic drive and a short bridge crossing from the Scottish mainland, you will be on the Isle of Skye. There is plenty of natural beauty to explore and then warm up with a drink and delicious food.
Trip #36: Journey across Namibia
Join a safari through Namibia's awe-inspiring national parks, from Etosha to Spitzkoppe, Waterberg to Epupa Falls, Mudumu, Khaudum, and so much more!
Trip #37: Stay in an Irish Castle
There's much to fall in love with on the Emerald Isle, and a magical stay in Dromoland Castle in Ireland, complete with a trip to the photogenic Cliffs of Moher, is only one of many unique experiences you can have.
Trip #38: City break in Montevideo
Get a taste of life in Uruguay's exciting capital. Experience an Asado, a traditional barbecue enjoyed over several hours with good company and even better Uruguayan wine. Explore street art along car-free walkways, and duck into a lovely patio for a tasty bite. Here are more reasons you should visit this unique city.
Trip #39: Slow it down in Chianti
Stay in a Tuscan country house style boutique hotel, L'Ultimo Mulino, for a beautiful and relaxing holiday. Not far away, try booking a horseback trail ride through the vineyards of Chianti.
Trip #40: Ski escape in Switzerland
Take the train to Jungfraujoch, up to the "Top of Europe". Afterwards, going down is the fun part! Take your pick of fantastic ski resorts in winter or beautiful hiking trails in the warmer months. Another incredible experience is Switzerland by rail.
Trip #41: Greek Island Hopping
You don't need to own a sailboat to sail through Crete, Mykonos, Rhodes, Santorini, and more of Greece's beautiful holiday destinations.
Trip #42: Melbourne city break
There's a reason Melbourne has been named the most liveable city in the world for so many years. Take your date night to the next level with bar hopping, dancing to live music, trendy laneways and chowing down on mouthwatering eats.
Trip #43: Las Vegas your way
Concerts and magic shows, Grand Canyon tours, pool parties, or maybe a little luck? Sounds perfect! You can even take your relationship to the next level and get hitched in one of many wedding chapels.
Trip #44: Sounds of Santiago de Cuba
Since the thawing of diplomatic tensions between the US and Cuba, travellers have been flocking to see the time capsule country. See Cuba away from the resorts… or better yet, hear it! Plan a guided tour of Cuba's Afro-Cuban rhythms.
Trip #45: Beach and beyond in the Bahamas
With 700 islands and 2,400 cays, you'll never run out of islands to experience in the Bahamas. The People-to-People program is unique to this country, which connects you with a local host family for a fun night of great food and even better conversation.
Trip #46: Stay in a houseboat in Amsterdam
You can't get more central than this! See Amsterdam's famous canals by night and day by booking accommodations in your very own houseboat hotel. Here is our expert's guide to Amsterdam.
Trip #47: Hike the Himalayas
Find the trailhead at Nepal's Manaslu mountain for a scenic hike of epic proportions. If you're up for the challenge, train for the big one: Mount Everest or Base Camp. Don't forget to spend time at important temples, including Boudha Stupa and Shri Pashupatinath.
Trip #48: Joshua Tree jaunt
There's more to California than beaches (although they are incredible.) Head to Yosemite National Park or enjoy the unique landscape of Joshua Tree National Park.
Trip #49: See it all in South Korea
From the one-of-a-kind Seoul Trickeye Museum to Changdeokgung Palace, there is so much to do in South Korea. Check out our extensive guide or find your Korean travel style with our quiz.
Trip #50: Cruise the Galapagos
For an insider's perspective on the Galapagos Islands in Ecuador, experience Celebrity Cruises' award-winning Galapagos getaways: complete with twice-daily excursions to see the famous local wildlife.
Trip #51: Pucker up in Paris
From the artsy grotto of Montmartre to scaling the Eiffel Tower, Paris isn't dubbed the city of love for nothing. Plan your trip around our essentials guide, or just show up and let the romance lead the way!
Trip #52: Lagos city break
Order up delicious to-go eats at the city's best bukas. Snooze on the beach. Shop 'til you drop. Grab last-minute concert tickets. However you spend your time in Lagos, the time will fly by!
Trip #53: Relax in Koh Samui
Thailand isn't all partying; there's plenty of relaxation and romance to be had as well. Stay in a spa pool villa at X2 Koh Samui (complete with all-inclusive spa treatments for two!) and get to know Thai cultures at the local temples.
Trip #54: Best of Germany
Start your vacation in bustling Frankfurt, then find time to get lost in the streets of Nuremberg before heading south to Munich. Leave some time for day trips to Heidelberg and Neuschwanstein Castle. Christmas is an especially romantic time, with Christmas markets selling toasty mulled wine to warm up on.
Trip #55: Cruise the Mekong River
Can't decide between booking your next trip in Laos, Thailand, Cambodia, or Vietnam? Don't choose! Your newest adventure can be found just off the banks of the mighty Mekong aboard river cruises like Avalon Waterways, AMA Waterways, or even G Adventures.
Trip #56: Boutique Marrakech
Insta-worthy from top to bottom, plan a stay in the palatial Jnane Tamsna boutique hotel – complete with Moroccan cooking classes, Arabic calligraphy lessons, and gorgeous gardens.
Trip #57: See it all in Singapore
They say the way to a person's heart is through their stomach, so Singapore is the perfect place to visit. Follow your nose to diverse cuisines at Singapore's famous hawker centres and follow your heart all throughout stunning Singapore! Check out our guide for more.
Trip #58: Classic Queenstown
Book a romantic stay in The Rees Hotel in Queenstown, New Zealand – the perfect hub for your bungy jumping trips, Milford Sound tours, and guided wine tours. Here's how to make the most of your time in Queenstown.
Trip #59: Mexican foodie tour
Taste your way through Mexico City, Puebla, Oaxaca, and Huatulco with Intrepid Travel.
Trip #60: Stop and Go on a cruise
Cruising is the perfect holiday — good food, plenty of activities, and you get to relax while being taken to your next port. Take a cruise close to home, meander down a European river, see the otherworldliness of Antarctica or sail around the world for much of the year.
Trip #61: Mumbai city break
You could spend forever in Mumbai and still have more to explore. Check out the Kanheri Caves carved Buddhist temple, Gateway of India, Colaba Causeway shops, and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu art & history museum.
Trip #62: Get Spiritual in Chiang Mai
With over 300 Buddhist Temples (Wats), you and your loved one are sure to find calm and peace in the largest city in Northern Thailand. Once your mind is healed, it's your body's turn at one of Chiang Mai many day spas.
Trip #63: Stay on a Felucca boat on the Nile
Join Intrepid's premium small group tours of Egypt for a mind-boggling tour of ancient tombs and temples, modern Egyptian cultures, and a relaxing sail on the Nile. Trip #64: Snorkel in Bali Bali is one of the world's premier snorkelling and diving destinations. With extensive, thriving coral reefs, exciting walls, manta rays and turtles galore, Nusa Lembogan is a vibrant area to check out.
Trip #64: Snorkel in Bali
Bali is one of the world's premier snorkelling and diving destinations. With extensive, thriving coral reefs, exciting walls, manta rays and turtles galore, Nusa Lembogan is a vibrant area to check out.
Trip #65: Throw tomatoes in Spain
When summer wraps up, the city of Buñol gets messy. Book your trip early to join in the tomato-chucking fun of La Tomatina festival.
Trip #66: Experience Ethiopia
Travel to the birthplace of humanity to tour the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, visit the winding Blue Nile, and of course, have your fill of mouthwatering Ethiopian cuisine.
Trip #67: Hawaii's natural wonders
Hiking, surfing, cycling, swimming – you can do it all on Hawaii's beautiful islands. Make sure your itinerary includes a visit to Waimea Canyon State Park, a helicopter tour of Hanapepe Valley, and a trip to Manawaiapuna falls. Take our quiz to find out which island you should visit.
Trip #68: Spiritual heart
Not only is Australia's Red Centre made up of incredible scenery and experiences, it is also the spiritual heart of the country and culturally significant to our first inhabitants. A trip not to be missed and one you won't soon forget.
Trip #69: See a castle in Wales
Not only does Wales have some of the most dramatic coastal scenery in Britain and the famous Cardiff Castle, but it also has a rich history and many castles to explore.
Trip #70: Island hop in the Philippines
Back in 2018, the major tourist destination of Boracay was closed for environmental refurbishment. The good news is it has since reopened but with stricter guidelines to make sure it remains pristine. If you'd like to get more off the beaten track — board a bangka and get to know the gorgeous Caramoan islands up close.
Trip #71: Kaosiung City break
Book a Hello Kitty flight to Taiwan aboard EVA airways, then roam across Kaosiung city for something incredibly unique. Visit the night market, Love River, Lotus Pond, E-DA theme park, and many museums.
Trip #72: Rio city break
Ride the cable car to Sugarloaf Mountain, spend a day at Copacabana beach, then another at Ipanema (watch out for that girl), explore Niteroi Contemporary Art gallery and Museo do Amanha science museum or catch a game of soccer (excuse us, football) at Maracanã stadium.
Trip #73: Chillax in Zanzibar
Visit the locally owned Zanzibari hotel – a little slice of perfection on a stunning stretch of the beach.
Trip #74: Rockies by horseback
Join Indigenous-owned Horseback Adventures Ltd. for a unique experience of the Canadian Rockies. You'll ride through Paradise Ridge, Jasper National Park, and overnight in cabins and tents along the way.
Trip #75: Sip your way through Chile
Embrace your inner sommelier with an epic wine tour through Casablanca Valley, Aconcagua Valley, San Antonio Valley and more.
Trip #76: Kyoto city break
This former Japanese capital is an absolute must-visit for every traveller! Explore the city's palaces, food markets, restaurants, temples, cherry blossom gardens, and Kansai onsens.
Trip #77: Have a very Venetian vacation
Tour Murano, Burano, and Torcello islands, sample your way through Venice's famous chocolate and wines, and see the city from a serenading gondola (as if hiring a gondola in Venice cool enough!). There are other ways to find romance in Italy, take a look.
Trip #78: Istanbul city break
From the top of Beyoglu rooftop clubs to the bottom of your cup of Turkish coffee, you're going to love Istanbul. Fill your trip with experiences at Istiklal Street shops, Bosphorus cruises and Princes Islands ferry rides.
Trip #79: Go West
We know our country is enormous, and many visitors stick to the east coast between Sydney and Cairns; however, Western Australia has a lot to offer and is worth a visit. There are wineries, beaches, ancient landscapes, Whale Sharks, Quokkas, and the outback — you're absolutely spoilt for choice!
Trip #80: Visit South Korea's sexiest theme park
We already know that there is so much to do in South Korea, and a visit to Jeju Island might be famous for its postcard-perfect beaches, luxury resorts, and epic diving sites. However, visitors must witness Loveland's x-rated art installations — you can thank us later.
Trip #81: Ski close to home
Aus isn't all tropics and balmy temps; there's also some snow and fantastic ski resorts to visit. Spend the day on the slopes and, at night, cosy up by the fire.
Trip #82: Delhi city break
Haggle at Chandni Chowk market, climb the minaret of Jama Masjid mosque, take a day trip to Pink City (Jaipur), and enjoy a Bollywood movie night at Raj Mandir Theatre.
Trip #83: See it all in Iceland
Bring your camera! Book a Golden Circle tour, visit the Insta-worthy blue lagoon, marvel at the Northern Lights, and drool over Reykjavik's famous hot dogs.
Trip #84: Marvellous Madagascar
Madagascar might be one of the most unique places on earth, but you'll have to see for yourself to decide. Walk through the Avenue of the Baobabs and spot lemurs and chameleons in Lokobe Reserve. Take a deep breath, cross Big Tsingy suspension bridge, and take a big bite out of Malagasy cuisine. Hike mountains, have lazy beach days. It's all here!
Trip #85: Hike the Inca Trail
It's not only Machu Pichu itself — it's the journey there that's worth every step. Nothing will bring you together like supporting each other up the trail and seeing Machu Pichu for the first time without the crowds.
Trip #86: Soak up the sounds of Jamaica
Join locally owned JaMIn Tours for a private tour of Jamaica's world-famous music scene across Kingston, Montego Bay, and more.
Trip #87: South African Safari
Start with a few days in vibrant Johannesburg, then join a guided tour to see the 'Big Five' (lion, elephant, Cape buffalo, leopard and rhino).
Trip #88: Buenos Aires city break
Explore the car-free zones of the city. Check out open-air museums, public art and concerts, and of course, tango shows.
Trip #89: Unwind in Ubud
Set amongst the rice paddies, ravines, and rainforests, there is a plethora of luxury accommodation to be found in Ubud. Relax by your private pool, sip delicious cocktails and enjoy a relaxing couple's massage.
Trip #90: Experience Dia de los Muertos
Western cultures may find it morbid, but it is anything but —Dia de los Muertos celebrates dearly departed loved ones in a colourful and joyous two-day festival. Head to Mexico City and join a guided tour to experience Day of the Dead.
Trip #91: Chew through the Czech Republic
The world-famous bar scene and underappreciated tapas eats are always worth a visit! Czech out (… sorry) Prague foodie guides for inspiration before you go.
Trip #92: Immerse yourself in Okinawa
Just because Okinawa is off the mainland of Japan doesn't mean it isn't well worth the trip. Make your own shisa at a Yachimun pottery studio, book tickets to a Ryukyu opera, munch on tasty beni imo sweet potato tarts, and snorkel off the coast of Okinawa Island.
Trip #93: Cruise through the Panama Canal
Choose the experience that fits your style! Panama Canal cruises are offered by so many of your favourite cruise lines, from family-friendly to small luxury ships.
Trip #94: Fall in love with the Maldives
The overwater bungalows are synonymous with romance, and the private beaches are a perfect place to pop important questions (hint, hint)
Trip #95: Dip into Budapest
Historic sightseeing, epic coffee houses, and of course, Hungarian thermal baths await.
Trip #96: Dubai in a heartbeat
Gone are the days of Dubai simply being a short stopover — this city has so much to offer, and visitors could spend a week there and not see it all. Hit the beach, watch the sunrise in the desert and shop up a storm in a souk.
Trip #97: Moscow city break
Architecture tours, vodka crawls, husky sled rides and heck – you can even shoot a bazooka at Park Patriot military base if it takes your fancy! Moscow has so many different sides to see and enjoy.
Trip #98: Visit the Mexican Riviera
Stretching across 120 kilometres of the East Coast, you can enjoy the best of Cabo San Lucas, La Paz, Mazatlan, and Puerto Vallarta.
Trip #99: Sights of Hong Kong
Catch the scenic views from the Ngong Ping cablecar, the stunning light shows at Victoria Harbour, and the seemingly endless shoreline at Sai Kung's beaches. Take our quiz for foodie inspo.
Trip #100: Visit Flight Centre to plan another getaway!
13.14min read
Published 14 February 2022