Valentine’s Day: the day of romance! Not that romance shouldn’t feature every day, but it’s nice to know that there’s a day specially dedicated to the love of your life. Also, it’s a great excuse to jet off to a beautiful destination, with the sole purpose of the trip being quality time, dinner dates every night and city strolls, hand in hand.
Most of the time, we travel to get away from the hustle and bustle of life – we go to relax, reset and destress – but, making the decision to travel, because you want to spoil your significant other or because you want to spend quality time with them, sounds so much sweeter.
Seeing as Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, it’s time to start planning that romantic trip!
While there are thousands of options (the world is filled with many beautiful locations), there are some that just ooze a little more romance. And, if you’re eager to find out which destinations those are, scroll through our list of the most romantic places on earth, which are ideal for Valentines vacations.
1. Positano, Italy
Positano is one of the most picturesque places on earth. It’s the Venice of the Amalfi coast, and the Paris of Italy. It’s quaint, it’s cute and it’s incredibly beautiful. Because Positano is situated on a cliff, you are guaranteed spectacular views no matter where you are. So, think of late night dinners overlooking the ocean; evening strolls with a sunset backdrop and of course food to die for (who doesn’t love pasta?!). Positano also boasts an array of incredible beaches, which are all about comfort and luxury – sunbeds aplenty and ferries that are eager to show you around the coast. Another reason Positano is a real gem is because it’s situated next to some incredible little towns as well as the stunning island of Capri. One can take a trip to some of these places by car (road trip alert), or by ferry (sunset boat cruise alert)!
2. The Maldives
When you think of an exotic island – a blissful paradise made up of white sand beaches and crystal blue water, The Maldives should come to mind. The reason Maldives is unlike any other island is the fact that the cabins are situated on the water. So, if you’re keen for a daytime – or nighttime swim in the crystal waters, all you need to do is take a jump from your balcony! Imagine spending afternoons in the sun with your love button; swimming, snorkeling, tanning and sipping on cocktails; and spending evenings listening to the sound of the ocean and swimming under the stars!
3. St Moritz, Switzerland
There’s two words for St Moritz – winter wonderland. This gorgeous little village hidden between steep, snowcapped slopes, looks like something you’d see out of a Christmas movie. It is magical! It has outdoor ice-rinks (very romantic – we know because we’ve watched enough romcoms in our lifetime); St Moritz even has a frozen lake where one can watch a polo match! If that’s not enough, you and your lover can take a quick car drive out of town and visit the many ski resorts that are dotted along the route! Nothing short of magical!
4. Santorini, Greece
As we know, Santorini is Greece’s very own Paris. It’s their ‘city’ of love – except it’s an island- which sounds even better! Santorini is known for its breathtaking sunsets, which reflects onto the white houses and lights them up – the whole of Santorini is painted a red-orange when the sun goes down. Just like Positano, Santorini is situated on a cliff, giving you front row seats (wherever you are), to the ocean below and of course the sunset and sunrise!
5. The Winelands, South Africa
The Cape Winelands which is found in one of the most beautiful cities on earth, Cape Town, oozes peace, tranquility and of course wine! But, that’s not all; the winelands boast an array of five-star restaurants and luxurious stays, all surrounded by the sweet essence of nature. This is the perfect place to put up your feet, read a book, sip on some award-winning wine and dine at fabulous restaurants with your one and only. And, if you feel like spending some time on the beach, hiking, sightseeing or shopping, take a quick 30-minute drive to the city of Cape Town! Now what’s better than getting the best of both worlds? Oh yes, sharing it with your darling!
6. Paris, France
Paris was the first city to be coined the city of love. It’s the original – the real McCoy. And, if you’re looking for the perfect place to celebrate your love, Paris should definitely be considered. There is so much to do, so much to see, taste, smell and experience in this world-class city, and you may just leave a little more loved up, than you came! I mean, how can you not fall even deeper in love when you’re visiting quaint French coffee shops, relishing in the extraordinary art scene together, and feasting on authentic French delicacies – oh and, don’t forget the French kisses! Yup, now you know why it’s called the city of love!
7. Prague, Czech Republic
For those couples who love walking through city streets, appreciate fine architecture, love a good night out on the town and enjoy very different cultures and traditions, Prague is for you! Prague has all the European class but is a lot more laid back than many other European cities. Here, you’ll be able to let your hair down and have a ball, without being frowned upon by the locals. Take shopping trips, boat cruises and afternoon strolls by day, and hit the vibey bars and restaurants by night!
8. Marrakech, Morocco
Marrakech is one of the most fascinating, majestic hidden gems in Africa. Nestled in the Sahara Desert, Marrakech is all about adventure, history, culture and tradition. Imagine trotting through the desert on camelback and waltzing through markets, riads and spice shops. It’s a fusion of smells, tastes and sights that are different to anything you’ve experienced before. Read more to get an idea about how to spend 12 days in Morocco.
9. Buenos Aires, Argentina
South America – especially Argentina – is the home of the tango. They tango in the bars, the nightclubs, the restaurants and even the streets! As we know, the tango is a sexy dance, where the women is led by her male counterpart, who assists her in moving her body in ways that make her body look like a rubber band, and her dress look like a swirl of fabric floating through the air. Now, do you need any more convincing that this is a city fit for a Valentines vacation?
10. Venice, Italy
When one speaks of romantic places to travel to, there’s no way they can leave Venice off the list! This majestic, elegant city of Italy is certainly every lovers’ paradise. Gondola rides, walks down the cobbled streets, dinner alongside the waterway – ahh, I can’t think of anything better!