15 Underappreciated Destinations For Honeymooners
You just got married! Congratulations!
Now comes the real fun: the honeymoon. Honeymoons are a great way to get to celebrate one of the biggest milestones in your life with your new spouse. They’re not just supposed to be celebrations. They’re also supposed to be a good way to get to know your spouse on a deeper level.
Most people tend to choose romantic locations for their honeymoon. Popular destinations include Jamaica, France, and Miami. But those places are hackneyed. There’s only so much you can do in a place where the crowds are literally all about romance before you feel like a grimy tourist.
Sometimes, you need to look beyond typical picks. These honeymoon destinations are a true dream come true—and yet, they’re shockingly overlooked.
Cartagena, Colombia
Warm weather? Check. Romantic surroundings, double-check. American-friendly? Absolutely. Welcome to Cartagena, one of the most underrated cities in Colombia. A low crime rate, excellent cuisine, and plenty of nightclubs make this a great place for people who want a trip that pleases both the eye and the tastebuds.
The cool thing about Cartagena is that you will be able to get a real authentic taste of Colombian culture while you walk on the beaches of the Rosario Islands. It has a little tropical flair, a sprinkle of beaches, and that sophisticated elegance that one can only get from a city.
Oh, and the resorts nearby? Affordable.
The Sofitel Legend Santa Clara offers the perfect combination of age-old tradition, local hospitality and French luxury. With its blend of colonial and republican architecture with modern comforts, the hotel offers comfortable rooms, personalized service, gourmet cuisine, a first-class spa, meeting rooms and cutting-edge technology for events, conventions and weddings.
Bruges, Belgium
Belgium is not what most people think of when they think of romantic countries, but hear us out. They have amazing chocolates, views of fairytale-like castles, and amazing restaurants. Bruges is home to the “Lake of Love,” which has some of the most spectacular views in the nation.
Along with chocolates and lakeside views, couples can also rent a horse and carriage in the heart of the city. Imagine being in a carriage drawn by white horses as you roam through a city built in the Middle Ages. How romantic is that?
If you’ve ever yearned for a moment in a Disney movie, you can definitely unleash your inner princess here.
Experience the epitome of luxury at Hotel Dukes' Palace Bruges, ideally situated in the heart of Bruges. Just a short stroll away from the enchanting Bruges Christmas Market and Bruges Market Square, this upscale hotel boasts 135 well-appointed guestrooms equipped with modern amenities such asars and espresso makers Unwind in style with access to the relaxing spa, sauna, and fitness center, or indulge in gourmet delights at the elegant on-site restaurant. Whether you're here for business or pleasure, Hotel Dukes' Palace Bruges offers a truly unforgettable stay.
Patagonia, Chile/Argentina
Patagonia is not just a cool clothing brand. It’s also a go-to destination for adventurers who want to climb mountains and wander through one of the most unique environments in the world. This region is famous for its gorgeous mountains, verdant forests, and stunning waters.
If you go here, you can check out the famous End of the World Train that leads you to an edge right near a cliff. Wine aficionados can also check out nearby vineyards or just snap up a bottle of Chilean wine.
The locals are friendly, the weather is great, and you’ll be able to take tons of photos of the local wildlife. What a thrill!
Located just a few kilometers from the Nothern ice fields and surrounded by spectacular rivers and lakes, this Patagonian destination opens the doors to a magnificent yet virtually unexplored area. Located in a privileged site, the Explora lodge offers you an intimate and private atmosphere in this sector of Patagonia. Here you will be able to disconnect and tour the different hills and valleys.
The lodge is part of a self-sustainable project, so its building materials were stones from local quarries, recycled wood, and copper for the roofs. Built by the Tompkins Conservations, our lodge is situated in the Chacabuco Valley. It was designed to reduce as much as possible the interference with the natural environment and based on structures from iconic national parks worldwide and traditional Patagonian estancias. Today this area is a hub for ongoing conservation and sustainability projects.
Curaçao, Netherland Antilles
Most people who choose Jamaica or other Caribbean islands do so because they want warm, sunny beaches as well as crystal-clear waters. Curaçao is an island that gives you all of that, plus more, at a lower price.
This little-known island in the heart of the Antilles offers beautiful deep blue waters, friendly locals, and plenty of places to go snorkeling among exotic fish. If you don’t swim, don’t panic. You can still get your ocean on at the Curaçao Sea Aquarium Park, where you can check out amazing sets of rare tropical fish.
The best part about choosing this island is that you’re going to avoid all the tourist traps that typically prey on travelers. It’s got a reputation for the being a well-kept travel secret for that reason.
Escape to the luxurious Mangrove Beach Corendon Curaçao All-Inclusive Resort Curio by Hilton in Willemstad, offering 399 air-conditioned guestrooms with private balconies and cable TV. Enjoy the private beach, four outdoor swimming pools, and five restaurants serving delectable cuisine. Explore nearby attractions like Curaçao and Curaçao Sea Aquarium, and unwind with complimentary Wi-Fi and all-inclusive rates.
Indulge in relaxation and convenience at this seaside retreat, with amenities including dry cleaning services, a 24-hour front desk, and complimentary buffet breakfast. Experience the perfect blend of tranquility and adventure at Mangrove Beach Corendon Curaçao, where every moment is designed for your comfort and enjoyment.
Shanghai, China
China does not have a reputation for being a very romantic destination, but Shanghai could prove everyone wrong. Fans of extremely luxurious, futuristic cities will find Shanghai to be one of the most breathtaking destinations they’ve ever gone to.
This booming city features everything you’d want from a city honeymoon destination: ultra-luxe hotels, decadent spas with dazzling decor, and incredible food. Shanghai’s culinary scene might be one of the best in the East.
This city also features its own Disneyland, so if you decide to bring kids to your honeymoon, it’s doable here. Though it is a city, don’t be fooled. One of the hottest places to go is Yu Garden, a truly spectacular display of Chinese gardening prowess.
An all-season escape on Shanghai’s vibrant fringe, Amanyangyun promises outdoor adventure, wellness exploration and cultural immersion in spectacular natural surroundings. On 140 pristine hectares, cycle through giant camphor trees and storied, stone villas to the tea house or art gallery. Drift over forest-embraced lakes and picnic in tranquil glades. Dine at five signature restaurants and delve deeper into holistic wellbeing at the comprehensive Aman Spa. At the resort's heart lies Nan Shufang, dedicated to revealing China’s rich heritage.
Budapest, Hungary
Where to begin with this beautiful city? Do we talk about the romantic castles and cathedrals that people love to walk through? Do we discuss the amazing views of the Danube River or the cruises that people take there?
Or, do we talk about the amazing medical spas, like Széchenyi Bath? No matter how you look at it, Budapest has a ton of attractions that make it an obvious choice for anyone interested in romance, fine dining, or a ton of self-care.
You will feel like a million bucks here.
Experience the epitome of luxury and sophistication at Párisi Udvar Hotel Budapest, part of Hyatt, nestled in the vibrant heart of Budapest. This opulent hotel boasts 110 elegantly appointed guestrooms featuring plush amenities such as minibars, espresso makers, and Egyptian cotton sheets on pillowtop. Stay connected with complimentary wireless internet access or unwind in front of the 49-inch Smart televisions. Pamper yourself at the full-service spa with massages, body treatments, and facials or take advantage of the health club, spa tub, and sauna for ultimate relaxation. Indulge in delectable local and international cuisine at Párisi Passage Café&Brass, and savor refreshing beverages at the 2 bars/lounges while basking in the hotel's Belle Époque ambiance.
This Belle Époque gem also offers a wealth of amenities including concierge services, gift shops/newsstands, and 24-hour room service for your convenience. Business travelers can make use of the 24-hour business center, conference space, and 4 meeting rooms, while event planning is seamless with 3897 square feet of space available. Enjoy quick access to Budapest's attractions such as Vaci Street, Dohany Street Synagogue, and Budapest Christmas Market, all within walking distance. With a roundtrip airport shuttle service and convenient self-parking options, Párisi Udvar Hotel Budapest ensures a seamless and luxurious stay in the heart of this historic city.
Bali, Indonesia
Bali is starting to become a major tourist hotspot, but it hasn’t quite broached the levels of tourism you see in places like Paris or Tokyo. This city has all the makings of a perfect honeymoon destination: tropical surroundings, beautiful buildings, and incredible restaurants.
If you’ve ever wanted to go to a world-class spa, Bali will be sure to please. If you want to lounge on perfect beaches, Bali can make it happen. If you want to gaze on verdant green rice patties and cute farms? You can do that too.
The prices of accommodations here are dirt cheap compared to other venues on this list. So, if you can, give Bali a shot. You’ll be glad you did.
Convenience meets luxury at Alila Villas Uluwatu, where guests can explore nearby attractions like Padang Padang Beach and Bingin Beach while enjoying amenities like complimentary wireless internet and concierge services. The resort's serene ambiance, combined with impeccable service, ensures a memorable and rejuvenating experience for those seeking a lavish escape in Bali.
Rio De Janiero, Brazil
If we had to pick one South American country that’s known for romance, we’d have to choose Brazil. This entire country seems to thrive on romantic, passionate energy. This bustling city has many attractions for people who like nightlife—and not just clubs.
Great restaurants, exotic fruit, and the world-famous Carnivale make this place a sexy destination for couples. The city has tons of cute resorts, spas, and dance party tour busses to choose from, too.
This is an ideal honeymoon destination for people who want to dance, dance, and dance the night away.
A cosmopolitan way of life meets old-world glamour at Copacabana Palace. An iconic bar, Michelin-starred restaurant and botanical spa are all waiting to be discovered inside its art-deco walls.
The best of Rio can be found on your doorstep. Stroll the mosaicked Portuguese pavement; samba in the city until sunrise; or simply stretch out and relax on the golden sands of the beach.
Mendoza, Argentina
When people think of romantic wine destinations, they often think of Napa Valley or Bordeaux. Argentina isn’t your typical destination, but it absolutely should be. This country produces some of the world’s finest wines—and yes, they have incredible vineyards.
Argentinian cuisine rivals many other countries when it comes to both flavor and presentation. If you’re looking for a more exotic twist on a typical Napa honeymoon, Mendoza’s lush vineyard resorts will whet your appetite for adventure.
The best part? Mendoza’s resorts are surprisingly affordable, so you can splurge a little extra on some top-grade wine.
Park Hyatt Mendoza, with its magnificent twentieth century French academy neoclassical façade, is a prestigious and emblematic five-star hotel. It is located in the city center, opposite the historic Plaza Independencia, 15 minutes from the international airport, 30 minutes from our exclusive wineries and 90 minutes from the main ski resorts. Surrounded by imposing vineyard landscapes at the foot of the Andes and situated in one of the Great Wine Capitals, the hotel is an ideal destination for both leisure and business trips.
Puerto Rico, United States
You do not have to jet off to a faraway destination to get a luxurious honeymoon. Puerto Rico is a territory in the United States, which means that you do not even have to refresh your passport to get there.
Despite it being a US destination, Puerto Rican resorts are incredibly affordable. You get tons of powdery beaches, gorgeous views, waterfall swimming holes, and real rainforests to walk through. Oh, and the surf? It’s a perfect paradise for it.
Escape to a tropical oasis of unparalleled tranquility at award-winning Fairmont El San Juan Hotel, perfectly positioned on the idyllic Isla Verde Beach, minutes from Old San Juan. Beautifully restored, our 1958 luxury hotel in Puerto Rico features the finest of modern amenities, from four spectacular pools with private cabanas, to world-class health and spa facilities. One of the best luxury hotels in Puerto Rico, Fairmont El San Juan Hotel offers legendary rooms and luxurious villas, paired with unrivaled levels of Fairmont service to ensure a truly unforgettable stay.
Ischia, Italy
As the largest of Italy’s Phlegrean Islands, Ischia offers plenty of space for people who want to get a taste of la dolce vita. Ischia features all the perks of a typical Italy trip, including mouthwatering food, historic sites, and absolutely stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Going boating isn’t just a pastime here. You can travel from island to island by boat. Land lubbers, on the other hand, can stroll through the quiet town streets of Sant’Angelo. If you are a fan of snorkeling, you’ll be happy to hear the waters are crystal clear.
Ischia is also home to sprawling hot spring resorts, which means that you can enjoy all the luxuries of Italian spa life while you connect with your lover.
A former aristocratic mansion set amidst a luxuriant park by the sea, Excelsior Belvedere Hotel and Spa offers unforgettable views on one of the most beautiful gulfs in the world. The fascination of the once noble dwelling, the secluded beach, the regenerating spa, the fresh and creative cuisine based on the best local ingredients, the short walking distance from Corso Vittoria Colonna, the heart of the island for shopping and elegance, enrich a tradition of exquisite hospitality renewed in time.
Etosha National Park, Namibia
Namibia is one of the most beautiful countries in Africa, but most people don’t stay in cities when they visit. Rather, they choose to go on a safari. Etosha is Namibia’s real safari gem, where couples can self-drive through one of the largest wildlife preserves in the world.
This gorgeous region has lush accommodations, plenty of safety measures, and tons of views. If you’ve ever wanted to see a lion or zebras in real life, this national park will let you do it. Game viewing and glamping are the names of the game here.
Habitas Namibia is a conservation project set in over 50,000 hectares of nature and wildlife. Experience an unforgettable adventure to explore, learn, and discover the unique wildlife, nature and culture of Namibia. Through immersive programming around their core pillars: adventure, conversation, music, wellness, culture and food, Habitas offers multi-sensory experiences where guests participate, engage and interact.
Todos Santos, Mexico
Looking for a way to get the luxury of a beach resort without going for the classic go-to options in Mexico? You won’t have to worry about Spring Breakers in this location. Todos Santos, which literally means “all the saints,” is a heavenly place filled with romantic resorts.
This is a great pick for people who want a more authentic trip to Mexico with fewer tourist crowds. Todos Santos is safe, luxurious,and yes, affordable too!
Paradero co-founders Pablo Carmona and Joshua Kremer designed their Todos Santos property with the intention of connecting visitors to the environment. Tucked away amid farmland—the dirt-road drive to the property is lined with poblano peppers, and a field of sunflowers can’t help but become an Instagram attraction at sunset—and framed by the Sierra de la Laguna mountains, the property lets its surroundings set the tone. Minimalist rooms decorated in soothing sandy shades look out on endless green orchards, as does the infinity pool. Ground floor guests get sizable circular bathtubs or hammocks, while those on the upper floor have “star nets” to lounge in for constellation-spotting.
Plant enthusiasts will appreciate the “Learn to Garden” experience which gives an overview of the area’s botany and provides an opportunity to pick vegetables that will then be prepared by the Paradero chef for that evening’s dinner. (The kitchen, which is worth a visit even if you’re not staying on property, is generally focused on highlighting local ingredients—many of them grown just steps away—at every meal.) It’s easy to spend an entire day poolside, consuming a steady stream of spicy margaritas while intermittently marveling over a cactus-perched iguana or curious roadrunner. And if you overdo it? The spa offers a special anti-inflammatory sun recovery treatment of aloe and tepezcohuite.
Shelter Island, United States
A honeymoon location? In New York!?! It’s more likely than you think. Shelter Island is one of those places that shocks travelers because it feels like a random resort island. This petite surf town in Long Island is a great place to go if you want to stay in the United States but want a low-key escape.
No one expects Shelter Island to be as romantic as it is. And if you want to make a quick trip to Manhattan so you can see a concert or a museum? It’s totally doable. It’s a win-win.
One of the first hotels on Shelter Island; Shelter Island House is set on a quiet street just a block off the infamous Sunset Beach. All the islands sights, sounds, tastes, water activities, golf, tennis, night-life, restaurants, beaches and history — are all only a short stroll away.
Hakone, Japan
Most Westerners do not know about this tourist hotspot in Japan, but they should. Hakone is known as one of the best onsen towns in Japan. Tourists come here from far and wide to try out the healing hotsprings and highly hospitable ryokan inns.
Health-conscious couples that want to enjoy the splendours of nature will find Hakone to be a dream honeymoon location. Perhaps that’s why locals swear by it as a romantic weekend getaway.
Hakone Kowakien Ten-yu, a true sanctuary facing magnificent mountain in Hakone, away from your bustling city life. The concept of our ryokan is the harmony of authentic Japanese hospitality and the nature.
You can watch the sunrising sky while bathing in our enormous open-air onsen with infinite horizon view. In addition, all rooms come with its own private open-air bath. In the evening, get excited for the beautifully presented delicious Japanese cuisine at your table.
Enjoy the heavenly experience of the true Japanese service throughout your stay.