Hey lovebirds, this one’s all about you. Whether you’re new and in the honeymoon phase or you’ve been together for years and years, we know that one-on-one time is super important, and nothing gets those sparks flying like a romantic getaway just the two of you.
Don’t just spend hours mindlessly scrolling past dreamy holiday posts, tick off your next country and make real memories on a trip of your own. We’re talking full-on relaxation by the beach in the Caribbean, chilled escapes in the Balearics and watersports wins in Cape Verde. Whatever your vibe, we’ve picked out the best romantic holiday destinations. From a quick weekend away to something more long haul, check out our top travel picks for young couples.
Tenerife
This one’s for the adventurous couple. The ones that want more than a fly-and-flop trip and prefer to keep their pulses pumping rather than laying by a pool all day. Tenerife‘s known as the star of the Canary Islands for its year-round sunshine and epic black-sand beaches. It’s also got Europe’s largest waterpark and Spain’s highest peak. Spend a day embracing that big kid energy at Siam Park or head to the beach for a solid lineup of watersports – from snorkelling and paddle-boarding to jet skis to parasailing and banana boats. Set off on a hike to see Mount Teide up close or get the best views of the volcano on a cable car ride. Soak up the volcanic landscapes, including lava fields and craters, then finish the night embracing Tenerife’s buzzy nightlife – think stylish rooftop bars, beach parties and lively clubs on the strip.
Don’t miss: Mount Teide
Date night’s every night when you’re on holiday, right? But skip the classic meal out and level things up. Mount Teide is one of the most romantic places on the island to watch the sun go down. Picture the sun melting into the hillside and the rocks turning a beautiful pink and red. Once the glow’s gone, you’re in for some major stargazing. You’ll get so many brownie points for organising this romantic eve.
Ibiza
This one’s for the chilled couple. When you love nothing more than lazy days by the pool – picture yourself, cocktail in hand with your fave book, soaking up the sun. We know Ibiza‘s big on nightlife, but experience the island’s more laidback, couple-friendly side and you’ll never look at it the same way again. Think stunning sands, lush vineyards and some of the most stylish hotels in the Med. From strolling around the hippy markets to filling up on Spanish faves like paella and tapas, your days here are all topped off by some unreal scenery. It’s the ultimate couple’s retreat.
Don’t miss: Formentera
Ibiza’s little sister, Formentera, is the perfect place for a cute little daytrip to make the most of your getaway. It’s just a 30 minutes’ ferry ride away from Ibiza and the vibe here is super peaceful, so it’ll feel like a holiday from your holiday. You’ll find loads of natural beauty, a yacht-filled marina and plenty of seafront restaurants. The star of the show here, though, has to be its beaut beaches. We’re talking 12 miles of stunning sunbathing spots and they’re a whole lot quieter, too, so that means more quality time for just the two of you. If you want to explore the island, the best way is on foot or by bike. It’s all pretty flat, and you’ll find dedicated bike paths and super scenic routes everywhere.
Barbados
This one’s for the beachy couple. If the priority for your couple’s break is sunning yourself, then pick Barbados. This tropical island ticks all the boxes – beautiful beaches, a UNESCO-listed capital, friendly locals and a thriving foodie scene. Holidays here are all about complete relaxation and taking things slow. With miles of coastline, it’s easy to find a place to spend the day horizontal and come sunset, it’s the perfect spot for a romantic stroll. If you’re up for something a little livelier in the evening, then hit the bars and clubs together in Christ Church – this city’s packed with rum bars, Bajan restaurants and has a buzzing nightlife.
Don’t miss: Cliff Restaurant
Fancy dining like a VIP right on the water’s edge? Well, the Cliff Restaurant delivers exactly that. It’s the most celebrity-visited restaurant on the island and with tables set right on the cliff’s edge, it offers stunning views across the ocean. Dine under the stars and see if you can spot local wildlife like stingrays and tarpon below you, all while enjoying a fine-dining menu of fresh meat and seafood. Or, if you like things a little more laidback, you’ll find a sushi bar here, too. Book a table for early evening when the deck’s all lit up and unrivalled sunset views will be on the cards.
Cape Verde
This one’s for the water babies. Couples who surf together stay together, right? Cape Verde‘s in an ideal spot – just off the northwest coast of Africa – and it attracts surf seekers from around the world, thanks to its consistent winds and warm water. Sal and Boa Vista are popular picks for their soft white sand and clear blue waters, as well as their ultimate surfing conditions. Whether you’re a beginner or a bit of pro, it’s the perfect place to grab a board and take to the waves. You can also go scuba diving or snorkelling and explore the colourful coral reefs, shipwrecks and see all the tropical fish, turtles and other marine wildlife.
Don’t miss: Pedra de Lume
If there’s one place you can’t miss off your itinerary in Cape Verde, it’s the Insta-worthy saltpans at Pedra de Lume. You’ll find them nestled in the resort of Sal, which means ‘salt’ in English. They’re surprisingly great for bathing in – prepare for the best skincare treatment of your life…
Maldives
This one’s for the boujie couple. You’re in your luxe era and loving every minute. It’s all about the designer labels, posh restaurants and five-star hotels. Okay, so the Maldives might be the stereotypical honeymoon destination, but you don’t have to be that serious in your relationship to enjoy a luxury holiday to this beautiful country. It’s got the whole package – private beaches, world-class food and some of the best diving and snorkelling. Level things up and stay in a above-water villa for front-row ocean views and keep things zen with morning yoga on the sand. Go all in and give your Insta followers serious holiday envy in one of the most romantic places in the world.
Don’t miss: Malé
Malé, the lively capital of the Maldives, is ideal if you’re craving a little more than just sun and sand. Immerse yourselves in the local culture at the National Museum or check out the city’s historic mosques. You’ll also find buzzing markets and street food stalls scattered all along the waterfront. Try some of the most popular snacks – known as ‘hedhikaa’ – like Maldivian samosas, savoury dumplings and spicy fishcakes. Then, it’s back to your chill oasis at the end of the day.
If you love the sound of these places, browse the rest of our Romantic holidays for more couples’ inspo.
Looking for more articles? You’ll find them on the Inspire homepage.
Authors: Rachel Coppenhall (she/her)
Last updated: 04.08.2025
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