They say those who travel well together stay together. Travel tests a relationship: too much stress or an overpacked itinerary can fray tempers, while the right balance of downtime and shared experiences can bring you closer. Condé Nast Traveler’s editors picked nine destinations that blend romance and duo-friendly activities—perfect for intimate adventures or restorative rest. Ultimately, it’s about the company, not the place.
For wine lovers: Napa Valley, California
Napa offers rolling hills, luxury hotels, and classic tastings—ideal for couples who want scenic strolls, cozy spas, or hot-air-balloon mornings. Dine at acclaimed restaurants, sip Cab Sauv at a tasting room, or relax at a hotel with spa and activities.
Where to stay in Napa Valley:
– Meadowood Napa — country club comforts and a top spa
– Auberge du Soleil — sun-soaked, Provençal vibes
– Miliken Creek Inn — riverfront hideaway
For wellness seekers: La Fortuna, Costa Rica
La Fortuna combines jungle adventure and restorative hot springs fed by Arenal Volcano. Mix rainforest hikes, waterfalls, and ziplining with mineral-rich thermal pools and spa treatments set in lush nature.
Where to stay in La Fortuna:
– Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa — natural springs and private cabanas
– Nayara Gardens — jungle sounds and luxury bungalows
– Amor Arenal — adults-only casitas
For the foodies: San Sebastián, Spain
A pilgrim’s site for food lovers, San Sebastián pairs pintxo bars and Michelin-starred dining with beaches and dramatic coastal views. Share dozens of small plates, sip txakoli, and time a Monte Urgull hike for sunset.
Where to stay in San Sebastián:
– Villa Soro — fairytale charm
– Beachy bolthole — near Zurriola Beach
– Akelarre — Michelin-starred dining and views
For the unabashed romantics: Paris, France
Paris offers classic romantic settings—Eiffel Tower nights, Seine cruises, intimate gardens, and opulent hotels—plus countless bars, boulevards, and quiet corners for wandering hand in hand.
Where to stay in Paris:
– Maison Proust — literary elegance
– Saint James Paris — château-like luxury
– Luxury apartment with rooftop hot tub — views of the Eiffel Tower
For the adventurous spirits: Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo suits curious, get-out-and-explore couples. Mix ancient shrines, neighborhood strolls, late-night yokocho bars, listening bars, and memorable shared meals—ramen, izakaya bites, and unexpected discoveries.
Where to stay in Tokyo:
– Aman Tokyo — skyline views and a serene pool
– Yuen Bettei Daita — countryside-inn feel inside the city
– Hoshinoya Tokyo — rooftop onsen and urban calm
For wildlife lovers: Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town is a versatile base for wildlife and natural scenery—see penguins at Boulders Beach, whales at False Bay, or head inland for Big Five safaris. Combine hikes, beaches, and vibrant waterfront nightlife.
Where to stay in Cape Town:
– Cape Cadogan — private townhouse atmosphere
– Mount Nelson — historic hotel with gardens
– Ellerman House — intimate mansion with Atlantic views
For thrill seekers: Roseau, Dominica
Dominica, the “Nature Island,” is for active couples who prefer adventure to sunbathing. Hike volcanic terrain, canyon (rappel) waterfalls, dive offshore, kayak winding rivers, and cool off in thermal pools.
Where to stay in Roseau:
– Jungle Bay — adventure access and activities
– Secret Bay — villas with private plunge pools
– Rosalie Bay Eco Resort — close to sea-turtle nesting sites
For the classic honeymooners: Bora Bora
Bora Bora is a timeless romantic escape: white sand, turquoise lagoons, and Mount Otemanu create an iconic backdrop. Enjoy snorkeling, lagoon excursions, private overwater villas, and sunset sails.
Where to stay in Bora Bora:
– Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora — private plunge pools and lagoon sanctuary
– Conrad Bora Bora Nui — cultural touches and water access
– Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa — expansive pools and resort amenities
For mountain lovers: Banff, Canada
The Canadian Rockies deliver dramatic lakes, snowy peaks, and a sense of scale that’s hard to beat. Banff National Park suits both outdoor-active couples (hiking, canoeing, skiing) and those seeking restorative spa time with alpine views.
Where to stay in Banff:
– Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise — lakeside grand hotel with a world-class spa
– Rimrock Banff — close to hot springs and mountain trails
– Moraine Lake Lodge — rustic cabins beside glacial waters
No matter which of these nine you choose, the key to a successful couple’s trip is pacing: pick a few shared experiences, leave room for quiet, and remember that the best part of travel together is being with each other.