There’s something magical about taking a second honeymoon. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone anniversary, rekindling your romance, or simply making up for a first honeymoon that didn’t meet expectations, a second honeymoon offers the perfect opportunity to celebrate your love story and create new memories together.
As time passes in a relationship, it becomes even more important to carve out dedicated time to reconnect. A second honeymoon provides the ideal setting to reminisce about your journey together while crafting new chapters in your shared adventure.
In this guide, we’ve curated the most enchanting destinations around the world that are perfect for couples seeking to celebrate their continued commitment. From sun-drenched beaches to cultural capitals, these locations offer the ideal backdrop for romantic reconnection.
Key Highlights
- Experience the iconic sunsets and white-washed villages of Santorini, Greece
- Indulge in the ultimate luxury of overwater bungalows in Bora Bora or the Maldives
- Embark on a thrilling safari adventure in Africa while staying in romantic luxury lodges
- Discover the perfect blend of relaxation and culture in destinations like Kyoto and Barcelona
- Find adults-only all-inclusive options in Riviera Maya and Antigua for a stress-free escape
Table of Contents
Romantic European Getaways
Europe has long been synonymous with romance, offering a perfect blend of history, culture, cuisine, and breathtaking landscapes that set the stage for an unforgettable second honeymoon.
1. Santorini, Greece: Where Sunsets Create Magic
Santorini consistently tops the lists of romantic destinations, and for good reason. This crescent-shaped island in the Aegean Sea offers some of the most spectacular views in the world. The contrast of white-washed buildings against the deep blue sea creates a visual poetry that feels designed specifically for couples in love.
Stay in Oia or Imerovigli for the quintessential Santorini experience, where boutique hotels built into the caldera cliffs offer private terraces perfect for watching the legendary sunsets. Spend your days exploring charming villages, visiting local wineries, or sailing around the volcanic islands that form the archipelago.
For the ultimate romantic experience, book a private sunset cruise complete with champagne and a Greek dinner, or reserve a table at one of the cliff-edge restaurants where the panoramic views are as exquisite as the Mediterranean cuisine.
Insider tip: Visit in May, June, September, or October to enjoy pleasant weather while avoiding the peak summer crowds and heat.
2. Amalfi Coast, Italy: Coastal Elegance at Its Finest
Italy’s Amalfi Coast offers a compelling mix of dramatic scenery, delectable cuisine, and dolce vita atmosphere that’s perfect for couples seeking romance with a side of sophistication. This UNESCO World Heritage site stretches along the southern edge of the Sorrentine Peninsula, featuring vertiginous coastlines dotted with pastel-colored fishing villages and terraced vineyards.
Base yourselves in picturesque Positano, elegant Ravello, or the namesake town of Amalfi to explore this stunning region. Each day can bring a new adventure: boat trips to hidden coves accessible only by water, drives along the winding coastal roads offering breathtaking vistas, or leisurely meals at seaside restaurants serving the freshest seafood pasta paired with local wines.
The region’s luxurious hotels, often converted from historic villas, offer intimate accommodations with jaw-dropping sea views. Many feature terraced gardens and infinity pools that seem to merge with the Mediterranean below.
Insider tip: Book a private driver for at least one day to navigate the notoriously challenging coastal roads, allowing both of you to fully enjoy the spectacular scenery.
3. Paris, France: The Timeless City of Love
Paris may seem like an obvious choice, but this city continually earns its reputation as the capital of romance. For a second honeymoon, Paris offers the perfect blend of familiar iconic sights and hidden gems waiting to be discovered together.
Beyond the must-see Eiffel Tower and Louvre, consider exploring lesser-known neighborhoods like Canal Saint-Martin or Belleville. Stroll hand-in-hand along the Seine at sunset, picnic in the Luxembourg Gardens, or discover intimate wine bars in Le Marais where you can toast to your continuing journey together.
For accommodations, skip the large chain hotels and opt instead for a boutique property in a historic building, many of which offer romantic packages including champagne, flowers, and breakfast in bed. Many also feature rooms with balconies offering views of the city’s iconic architecture.
Insider tip: Pre-book a private evening tour of Montmartre, ending at the Sacré-Cœur Basilica for a night view of the illuminated city—a magical moment that perfectly captures Paris’s enduring romance.
Tropical Paradises
When it comes to second honeymoons, tropical destinations offer the allure of pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and the kind of serene privacy that allows couples to focus completely on each other.
4. Bora Bora, French Polynesia: Overwater Romance
Bora Bora represents the pinnacle of tropical luxury and seclusion. This South Pacific island is renowned for its iconic overwater bungalows that hover above a turquoise lagoon so clear you can watch tropical fish swim beneath your private deck.
The island’s dramatic silhouette is dominated by Mount Otemanu, creating a breathtaking backdrop for romantic dinners on the beach. Days here can be as active or relaxed as you desire—from snorkeling among colorful coral gardens and feeding gentle rays to simply lounging on your private deck with direct ladder access to the warm lagoon below.
Many resorts offer special experiences designed for couples, such as private motu (islet) picnics accessible only by boat, Polynesian spa rituals for two, or sunset cruises complete with traditional music and dancing.
Insider tip: Book the end-of-pontoon overwater bungalows for the most privacy and best views, particularly those facing Mount Otemanu.
5. Maldives: Private Island Perfection
The Maldives elevates the concept of a romantic escape with its “one island, one resort” philosophy, ensuring unprecedented privacy and exclusivity. This archipelago of coral islands in the Indian Ocean offers what many consider the world’s most idyllic beaches and waters.
Most resorts feature a choice between overwater villas with direct ocean access and beachfront accommodations just steps from the shore. Many include private pools, outdoor bathrooms, and dedicated butler service to fulfill your every wish.
The underwater experiences here are unparalleled—vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life surround most islands, offering spectacular snorkeling right from your villa. For an unforgettable experience, book dinner at an underwater restaurant where you can dine surrounded by passing marine life, or arrange a night snorkeling excursion to witness bioluminescent plankton illuminating the water like underwater stars.
Insider tip: Choose a resort with access to both sunrise and sunset views, and consider an all-inclusive option since all food and drinks must be consumed on your resort island.
6. St. Lucia, Caribbean: Mountains Meet the Sea
St. Lucia stands out among Caribbean destinations for its dramatic scenery. The iconic Pitons—twin volcanic peaks rising majestically from the sea—create a stunning backdrop for romance that’s unique in the region.
The island offers exceptional adults-only all-inclusive resorts specifically designed for couples, many featuring rooms with open fourth walls that frame the Pitons and sea, private plunge pools, and personalized butler service. These luxurious sanctuaries provide the perfect balance of privacy and attentive service.
Beyond the resorts, explore lush rainforests, rejuvenating hot springs, and the world’s only drive-in volcano. For active couples, hiking the Gros Piton offers a challenging yet rewarding experience with panoramic views that make for an unforgettable shared accomplishment.
Insider tip: Book a sunset sailing trip along the west coast of the island for the most spectacular views of the Pitons, ideally with champagne service included.
Unique Adventures
For couples seeking something beyond the traditional beach or city experience, these distinctive destinations offer extraordinary backdrops for creating memorable second honeymoon stories.
7. Safari in Tanzania: Wild Romance Under African Skies
Few experiences foster connection like witnessing the majesty of Africa’s wildlife together. Tanzania offers the quintessential safari experience, from the vast plains of the Serengeti to the remarkable Ngorongoro Crater, a natural enclosure teeming with wildlife.
Luxury safari lodges and tented camps combine the thrill of being close to nature with surprising comforts—four-poster beds draped in mosquito netting, private decks overlooking waterholes frequented by elephants, outdoor showers under the stars, and exceptional cuisine served in unforgettable settings.
Days begin with dawn game drives when animals are most active, perhaps witnessing the great wildebeest migration or a pride of lions on the hunt. Evenings bring sundowner cocktails in the bush followed by dinners around a campfire under stars so bright they seem close enough to touch.
Insider tip: Combine your safari with a few days in Zanzibar for a perfect “bush and beach” experience, ending your adventure with relaxation on pristine Indian Ocean beaches.
8. Kyoto, Japan: Serene Cultural Immersion
For couples seeking cultural depth alongside romantic experiences, Kyoto offers an enchanting alternative to typical honeymoon destinations. Japan’s former imperial capital preserves the nation’s cultural heart with over 1,600 Buddhist temples, 400 Shinto shrines, and countless gardens designed for contemplation.
Stay in a traditional ryokan (Japanese inn) where you’ll sleep on futon beds, enjoy multi-course kaiseki meals in your room, and perhaps have access to private onsen (hot spring baths). Many historic machiya (wooden townhouses) have also been converted into exclusive accommodations offering privacy with authentic Japanese aesthetics.
Romantic experiences abound: witness the ethereal beauty of cherry blossoms in spring or maple leaves in fall, stroll through bamboo groves hand-in-hand, participate in a private tea ceremony, or don traditional kimono for memorable photos in historic districts.
Insider tip: Rise early to visit popular sites like the Fushimi Inari Shrine or the bamboo forest at Arashiyama before the crowds arrive, then return to your accommodation for an afternoon rest before exploring again in the evening when many temples are beautifully illuminated.
9. New Zealand: Adventure and Scenery in Perfect Harmony
For active couples who bond through shared adventures, New Zealand offers an unmatched combination of dramatic landscapes, adrenaline-pumping activities, and sophisticated food and wine—all within a relatively compact area that’s easy to navigate.
The South Island provides the most spectacular scenery, from the fjords of Milford Sound to the soaring Southern Alps. Base yourselves in Queenstown, the adventure capital, where you can try bungee jumping or jet boating by day, then retreat to luxury lodges with mountain views and world-class pinot noir in the evening.
For a more relaxed pace, explore the vineyard-covered hills of Marlborough or Hawke’s Bay, take scenic helicopter flights landing on remote glaciers, or hike portions of the country’s famous walking tracks together.
Insider tip: Consider a campervan for part of your trip—many are surprisingly luxurious, and waking up together in different stunning locations each morning creates a special kind of intimacy and spontaneity.
All-Inclusive Luxury
For couples seeking a stress-free escape where every detail is taken care of, these all-inclusive destinations offer the perfect combination of luxury, privacy, and comprehensive amenities.
10. Riviera Maya, Mexico: Accessible Luxury
Mexico’s Riviera Maya coastline offers the perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and world-class all-inclusive resorts specifically designed for couples. The region stretches along the Caribbean coast of the Yucatán Peninsula, known for its white sand beaches and turquoise waters.
Adults-only luxury resorts here have perfected the art of romantic getaways, offering swim-up suites, private plunge pools, multiple gourmet dining options, and spas incorporating ancient Mayan healing techniques. Many properties feature overwater bungalows or rooftop infinity pools with ocean views that rival those of more distant destinations.
Beyond resort boundaries, explore the ancient Mayan ruins of Tulum perched dramatically on seaside cliffs, swim in sacred cenotes (natural limestone sinkholes), or take a day trip to the impressive archaeological site of Chichen Itza, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
Insider tip: Look for resorts that offer exchange privileges with sister properties, allowing you to enjoy multiple resorts’ facilities and restaurants during your stay.
11. Antigua: 365 Beaches of Bliss
With the motto “a beach for every day of the year,” Antigua delivers on its promise of exceptional coastal beauty. This Caribbean gem specializes in couples-focused resorts that combine British colonial charm with laid-back island ambiance.
The island’s all-inclusive properties range from intimate boutique hotels to larger resorts with extensive amenities, many featuring cottage-style accommodations offering privacy and direct beach access. Several resorts have earned worldwide recognition for their romantic atmosphere and comprehensive packages that include sailing excursions, island tours, and water sports.
Spend your days exploring secluded coves, snorkeling among coral reefs, or sailing the island’s protected waters—home to some of the Caribbean’s most prestigious yachting events. For a special experience, visit the Sunday evening party at Shirley Heights, where you can dance to steel drum music while watching the sun set over English Harbour.
Insider tip: Choose accommodations on the calmer Caribbean side of the island rather than the Atlantic side for the best beach experience, particularly if you enjoy swimming together.
City & Culture
Urban destinations offer a different kind of romantic escape, one filled with shared cultural experiences, world-class dining, and the excitement of discovering a vibrant city together.
12. Barcelona, Spain: Artistic Romance
Barcelona offers an intoxicating blend of architectural wonders, artistic heritage, exceptional cuisine, and beautiful beaches—all infused with passionate Catalan culture. This combination makes it ideal for couples who want a second honeymoon that stimulates all the senses.
Spend your days exploring Antoni Gaudí’s fantastical buildings, from the unfinished masterpiece of Sagrada Família to the whimsical Park Güell. Wander hand-in-hand through the medieval Gothic Quarter, stopping at intimate wine bars to sample local cava and tapas.
For accommodations, consider boutique hotels in the elegant Eixample district, many housed in modernist buildings with rooftop terraces offering views across the city to the Mediterranean. In the evenings, experience Barcelona’s legendary nightlife, perhaps catching a flamenco show or dining at a Michelin-starred restaurant before returning to your hotel’s rooftop bar for a nightcap under the stars.
Insider tip: Book a private after-hours tour of one of Barcelona’s major museums for an intimate cultural experience, followed by dinner at a restaurant with views of the illuminated city.
13. Florence, Italy: Renaissance Romance
Florence embodies Italian romance with its Renaissance masterpieces, picturesque Arno River, and surrounding Tuscan hills dotted with cypress trees and vineyards. The city’s compact historic center allows couples to explore by foot, discovering artistic treasures and charming piazzas around every corner.
Stay in a converted palazzo (palace) hotel where Renaissance art and architecture blend with modern luxury. Many offer rooftop terraces with views of the iconic Duomo, perfect for sharing a bottle of Tuscan wine at sunset.
Beyond the essential visits to the Uffizi Gallery and Michelangelo’s David, make time for more intimate experiences: take a private cooking class to learn the secrets of Tuscan cuisine, enjoy aperitivo hour in less touristy neighborhoods like Oltrarno, or arrange a vintage Vespa tour through the surrounding countryside.
Insider tip: Wake up early one morning to cross the Ponte Vecchio before the crowds arrive, then continue to the Boboli Gardens for a peaceful morning walk with panoramic views of the city.
14. Charleston, South Carolina: Southern Charm
For couples seeking romance without international travel, Charleston offers a perfect domestic alternative with its cobblestone streets, antebellum architecture, renowned culinary scene, and genuine Southern hospitality.
The city’s historic district feels designed for couples, with gas-lit alleys, hidden gardens, and restored mansions that now house luxury boutique hotels. Many offer romantic packages including carriage tours, champagne turndown service, and access to private clubs.
Culinary experiences are a highlight, from innovative restaurants helmed by award-winning chefs to historic taverns serving sophisticated interpretations of Lowcountry classics. Beyond the city, nearby barrier islands offer pristine beaches and nature preserves perfect for peaceful walks together.
Insider tip: Book a sunset sail in Charleston Harbor followed by dinner at one of the rooftop restaurants overlooking the city for a quintessentially romantic Charleston evening.
15. Sedona, Arizona: Spiritual Connection
Sedona offers a distinctive honeymoon experience where dramatic natural beauty meets spiritual energy. The town is surrounded by towering red rock formations that glow with shifting colors throughout the day, creating a naturally romantic setting unlike anywhere else.
Luxury resorts here blend into the landscape, many offering private casitas with fireplaces, outdoor showers, and terraces perfectly positioned for stargazing in the clear desert night. The destination attracts couples seeking both adventure and wellness, with activities ranging from jeep tours through the red rocks to couples’ spa treatments incorporating local healing traditions.
Many couples are drawn to Sedona’s famous “vortexes”—areas believed to have enhanced spiritual energy—making this an ideal destination for those looking to deepen their connection. Whether or not you’re spiritual, watching the sunrise or sunset transform the red rocks into a kaleidoscope of colors creates the kind of magical shared moment that defines a perfect second honeymoon.
Insider tip: Book a private guide for a sunrise hike to one of the vortex sites, followed by a champagne picnic breakfast with views of the majestic landscape.
Planning Your Perfect Second Honeymoon
When planning your second honeymoon, consider what would be most meaningful for your relationship at this stage. Unlike first honeymoons that often follow wedding exhaustion, second honeymoons can be more thoughtfully designed around your shared interests and connection style:
- Consider your travel style: Are you looking for relaxation, adventure, cultural immersion, or a mix?
- Think about timing: A second honeymoon doesn’t have to coincide with an anniversary—consider traveling during shoulder seasons for better rates and fewer crowds
- Set a realistic budget: Many couples find they can afford more luxury for a second honeymoon than their first
- Disconnect to reconnect: Consider places where you can truly unplug from daily demands
- Add special touches: Work with your hotel concierge in advance to arrange unique experiences that celebrate your journey together
Remember that the perfect second honeymoon isn’t about checking off bucket-list destinations—it’s about creating space for the two of you to celebrate your continuing love story and write exciting new chapters together.
Disclaimer: Travel information and availability may change. We recommend checking official websites or working with a travel advisor before booking your second honeymoon. This guide was last updated in March 2025.