Valentine’s Day is a special day celebrated on February 14th every year. It’s a time for people to express their love and affection for one another, often by exchanging cards, flowers, chocolates, and other gifts.
The 10 best places to go for Valentine’s Day 2025
1. Paris, France – The Eternal City of Love
There’s a reason Paris is called the most romantic city in the world. Spend your Valentine’s strolling hand-in-hand along the Seine, visiting the iconic Eiffel Tower, or enjoying a candlelit dinner at a charming bistro. For something extra special, take a sunset boat cruise on the Seine or watch the city light up from Montmartre. Don’t forget to visit the Pont des Arts to leave a love lock!
Top Experiences:
- Romantic picnic at the Champ de Mars
- Wine tasting in Saint-Germain-des-Prés
- Indulge in pastries at Ladurée
2. Venice, Italy – Gondolas & Carnival Romance
In February, Venice transforms into a mysterious, magical place thanks to the Venice Carnival, with masked balls, costumes, and romantic masquerade events. Ride a gondola through quiet canals, explore the hidden streets, and visit St. Mark’s Basilica for breathtaking views.
Top Experiences:
- Sunset gondola ride through the canals
- Explore Murano and Burano for colorful charm
- Enjoy a romantic dinner by the Grand Canal
3. Maldives – Private Island Paradise
If your idea of romance is escaping to a secluded beach with turquoise waters and white sand, the Maldives is the ultimate destination. Stay in an overwater villa where you can watch the sunset from your private pool, enjoy snorkeling in coral reefs, or book a couple’s spa treatment at a luxury resort.
Top Experiences:
- Private sandbank picnic
- Sunset dolphin cruise
- Underwater dining experience at Ithaa
4. Kyoto, Japan – Cultural Romance & Zen Gardens
For couples who love culture and tranquility, Kyoto is a dream destination. Visit stunning temples, wander through bamboo forests, and stay in a traditional ryokan with private onsen (hot spring baths). February is peaceful, and if you’re lucky, you might catch the ume (plum blossoms) starting to bloom.
Top Experiences:
- Stroll through Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
- Visit the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji)
- Traditional tea ceremony for two
5. Tulum, Mexico – Boho Beach Bliss
Tulum offers a laid-back, romantic vibe with stunning beaches, eco-luxury resorts, and mystical cenotes (natural swimming holes). Spend your days lounging by the Caribbean Sea, exploring Mayan ruins, or sipping cocktails at a beachfront bar.
Top Experiences:
- Swim in the Gran Cenote
- Visit the Tulum Ruins overlooking the sea
- Couples’ yoga and wellness retreat
6. Reykjavik, Iceland – Northern Lights & Cozy Retreats
Iceland is perfect for adventurous couples looking to combine nature with romance. Spend your days exploring waterfalls, black sand beaches, and glaciers. At night, cozy up in a countryside cabin and watch the northern lights dance across the sky.
Top Experiences:
- Relax in the Blue Lagoon or a secret hot spring
- Take a Golden Circle tour to see Gullfoss and Geysir
- Snowmobiling or glacier hiking adventure
7. Santorini, Greece – Sunset Magic
Santorini in February is peaceful and quiet, offering a more intimate experience than the summer rush. Wander through the white-washed streets of Oia, soak in a hot tub with a caldera view, and enjoy local wines at a cliffside vineyard.
Top Experiences:
- Sunset at Oia Castle
- Wine tasting at Santo Wines
- Visit the volcanic hot springs
8. Queenstown, New Zealand – Adventure for Two
For couples who crave adventure, Queenstown is the place to be! February is summer in New Zealand, so you can go hiking, bungee jumping, and wine tasting. Take a scenic cruise on Lake Wakatipu or ride the Skyline Gondola for breathtaking views.
Top Experiences:
- Shotover Jet boat ride
- Hike the Ben Lomond Track
- Visit nearby wineries in Central Otago
9. Banff, Canada – Winter Wonderland
Banff is a magical destination in February with snow-covered mountains and cozy cabins. Go skiing, take a sleigh ride through snowy landscapes, and warm up in natural hot springs surrounded by the Rockies.
Top Experiences:
- Ski or snowboard at Lake Louise
- Ride the Banff Gondola to Sulphur Mountain
- Ice skating on Lake Louise
10. Savannah, Georgia – Southern Charm & History
Savannah is known for its romantic, historic vibe with cobblestone streets, grand oak trees draped in Spanish moss, and cozy B&Bs. Explore the city’s many parks, take a horse-drawn carriage ride, and enjoy fine Southern cuisine at romantic restaurants.
Top Experiences:
- Stroll through Forsyth Park
- Riverboat cruise on the Savannah River
- Ghost tour through the historic district