Where to go, what to do, and how to make your love story unforgettable
Stepping away from your everyday routine and escaping somewhere beautiful with the person you love is something truly amazing – and yeah, you should try it at least once in a while! Whether it’s your very first anniversary or a milestone like your 25th or 50th, planning a romantic getaway can turn your celebration into an unforgettable experience. But with so many stunning destinations to choose from, where do you even begin?
In this guide, I’ve rounded up the top romantic getaways in Europe and the U.S. My list goes from cozy countryside escapes and beachside hideaways to cultural cities perfect for couples who love a little adventure. Whether you’re looking for secluded romantic getaways in Europe, affordable anniversary trip ideas, or bucket-list locations in the U.S., I’ve got something for you!
And depending on your style, you might prefer something quiet and intimate, or a fun celebration with friends and family. (Not sure what suits you? Check out our guide on Private vs. Public Anniversary Celebrations!)
So call your partner, pack your bags, and let’s find the perfect destination to celebrate your love!
Romantic Getaways in Europe
Postcard-perfect places that practically scream romance? yeah-that’s Europe!!! Whether you’re into charming cobblestone towns, dramatic coastlines, or quiet lakeside villages, there’s a dreamy destination waiting for you and your partner. I’ve hand-picked some of the most romantic and unforgettable spots to celebrate your anniversary in Europe.
Paris, France – The Classic Romantic Escape
It wouldn’t be a romantic getaway list without Paris. The City of Light has earned its reputation with candlelit dinners, strolls along the Seine, and that unbeatable Eiffel Tower sparkle. Cozy up at a street-side café, explore art museums hand in hand, or book a dinner cruise to see the city from the water. Paris is perfect for couples who want a blend of culture, elegance, and timeless charm.
- Perfect for: Luxury lovers, first-time anniversary trips
- Best time to visit: Spring or early fall

Hallstatt, Austria – A Quiet Lakeside Gem
Looking for secluded romantic getaways in Europe? Hallstatt is like a real-life fairytale village. Nestled between the mountains and a serene lake, this Austrian treasure is peaceful, scenic, and ideal for couples who just want to unplug. Take a boat ride on the glassy lake, enjoy slow breakfasts with alpine views, and wander its sleepy streets. It’s romance without the crowds.
- Perfect for: Nature lovers, introverted couples
- Budget-friendly: Yes, especially in shoulder season
- Best time to visit: Late spring to early autumn
Following, I have shared a vlog I found in YouTube, featuring a couple’s outing to the iconic lakeside town of Hallstatt, with stay recommendations and scenic views.
Bruges, Belgium – Fairytale Vibes for Two
If you love cobblestones, canals, and chocolate (who doesn’t?), Bruges is for you. This medieval city feels like stepping into another era, with horse-drawn carriages and sweet little alleyways perfect for wandering. It’s a compact, walkable city—great for short anniversary trips where you want maximum charm with minimal planning.
- Perfect for: Couples who love history and charm
- Affordable: Moderately priced with many romantic B&Bs
- Best time to visit: December for festive vibes or May for flowers

Santorini, Greece – For Sunsets and Sea Breezes
Santorini offers stunning views, whitewashed buildings, and vibrant blue domes perched above the Aegean Sea. It’s a go-to destination for couples seeking luxury anniversary trips. Spend your days lounging in infinity pools, sipping wine at cliffside restaurants, and watching sunsets that feel like movie scenes. Ideal for honeymoon vibes—even years after the wedding.
- Perfect for: Glamorous getaways, milestone anniversaries
- Best time to visit: September or October (fewer crowds, better rates)
This video is a stunning romantic anniversary trip to Santorini, showcasing epic sunsets, cliffside hotels, and sea breezes. Hope it will help you for your anniversary celebration planning!
Following video showcase how a couple planned their first wedding anniversary romantically. But I think the tips in the video are helpful for any couple who are going to celebrate their wedding anniversary I Santorini.
Algarve, Portugal – Romantic and Budget-Friendly
Who says you need to break the bank to find romance? Algarve’s sunny beaches, sea caves, and golden cliffs make it a cheap romantic getaway in Europe that’s just as dreamy. Stay in a charming villa, eat fresh seafood by the ocean, and take boat tours through turquoise waters. It’s the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure—without the luxury price tag.
- Perfect for: Sunseekers, budget-conscious travelers
- Best time to visit: Late spring or early fall for better deals
Whether you want a luxurious escape or a budget-friendly retreat, Europe offers endless possibilities for a romantic anniversary getaway. Just pick your vibe, pack your bags, and get ready to make some unforgettable memories.
I thought the following video will also helpful for you. The couple in the video talk about 6 romantic places in Europe that you can travel as a couple.
Romantic Getaways in the U.S.
The U.S. is full of breathtaking and romantic places, whether you’re dreaming of a wine country escape, a cozy mountain retreat, or a sun-soaked coastal getaway. Whatever your anniversary travel style is—laid-back, adventurous, or indulgent—there’s a perfect destination in USA waiting for you!
Napa Valley, California – Wine, Wellness, and Romance
If you and your partner love wine, scenic drives, and spa days, Napa Valley is hard to beat. The rolling vineyards, charming tasting rooms, and cozy B&Bs set the mood for a truly indulgent anniversary trip. Book a hot air balloon ride at sunrise or enjoy a couple’s massage at a luxury spa.
- Perfect for: Wine lovers, luxury seekers, couples who enjoy pampering
- Affordable: Moderate to high-end (budget stays available in nearby towns like Calistoga or Sonoma)
- Best time to visit: August to October (harvest season), or April to June for beautiful spring weather
When I looking for more details about anniversary celebration in Napa Valley, I found the following video on YouTube.
If you are a young couple (or even young by mind!) the following video will guide you about 14 things that you can do in Napa Valley with your wife or husband.
Asheville, North Carolina – Cozy Cabins & Mountain Magic
Asheville combines natural beauty with artistic charm. Tucked into the Blue Ridge Mountains, it’s perfect for couples who love the outdoors but also enjoy a good brewery, art gallery, or farm-to-table meal. Think scenic hikes, fall foliage, and evenings by a firepit in your private cabin.
- Perfect for: Nature-loving, artsy, or low-key couples
- Affordable: Yes! Lots of budget-friendly cabins and B&Bs available
- Best time to visit: September to November for fall colors, or May to early June for spring blooms
Sedona, Arizona – Desert Beauty and Stargazing
For something a little different, head to Sedona. Surrounded by red rock formations and spiritual energy, it’s a haven for couples looking to recharge. Explore desert trails, enjoy energy vortex tours, or soak in a hot tub under the stars.
- Perfect for: Spiritual travelers, wellness lovers, hikers
- Affordable: Moderate—luxury spas and budget motels both available
- Best time to visit: March to May or September to November for mild weather
Following video is about how they had their Honeymoon at Sedona, but I think it will give some tips and ideas that can help you to plan your anniversary celebration trip too. It’s a vlog that showcase hiking, stargazing, and the spiritual beauty of Sedona.
Charleston, South Carolina – Southern Charm and Romance
Historic streets, pastel houses, ocean breezes—Charleston is dripping with charm. Wander hand-in-hand through old neighborhoods, enjoy fresh seafood, or sail off on a sunset cruise. It’s the perfect mix of culture, comfort, and coastal calm.
- Perfect for: Couples who love history, architecture, and Southern hospitality
- Affordable: Moderate, with boutique hotels and affordable inns available
- Best time to visit: March to May or September to early November for pleasant weather and fewer crowds
Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada – Year-Round Nature Retreat
Interested in snow-covered cabins or sunny lakeside hikes? Anything in Lake Tahoe! It’s great for couples who want an anniversary filled with both adventure and cozy moments.
- Perfect for: Outdoor enthusiasts, ski/snowboard lovers, or laid-back nature-seekers
- Affordable: Can be pricey in winter, but off-season deals are common in spring and fall
- Best time to visit: December to March for snow, or June to September for hiking and water activities
The U.S. offers endless anniversary trip ideas for couples looking to celebrate in style—whether you’re planning months ahead or searching for something last-minute and affordable. And keep in your mind, it’s not about how far you go—it’s about the memories you make together!
This video is a roundup of top romantic destinations across the U.S., with Asheville, Charleston, and Lake Tahoe – so, I hope this is perfect for broad anniversary planning.
Tips for Planning Your Anniversary Trip
Even if you’re planning months ahead or pulling something together last minute, a little thoughtful prep can turn your anniversary getaway from “nice” to truly unforgettable. Here are some tried-and-true tips to help you plan a smooth, romantic, and memorable anniversary trip—no stress, just love!
- Know Your Travel Style: Start with What You Both Love
Before you even pick a destination, think about what kind of trip suits both of you. Do you bond over food and wine? Are you both nature lovers? Or maybe one of you prefers relaxing while the other loves exploring? Choosing a destination that reflects your shared interests (or offers a little of both!) makes the experience more personal and fun.
- Stick to a Budget (But Leave Room to Splurge)
Romance doesn’t have to break the bank. There are plenty of amazing anniversary trips on a budget, especially if you travel during the off-season or book early. Decide on a spending limit for flights, hotels, meals, and extras like spa days or excursions. Then look for destinations and packages that match.
Pro tip: For a cheaper European trip, look at places like Portugal, Slovenia, or southern Spain—all beautiful and less touristy.
- Book a Romantic Stay
Even if it’s a boutique hotel, cozy cabin, beachside bungalow, or even a treehouse, your accommodations can seriously set the tone. Look for stays that offer extras like private balconies, hot tubs, fireplaces, or couples’ packages. Bonus points if it comes with a view!
- Plan One ‘Wow’ Moment
Add a little magic by planning something extra special: a surprise dinner reservation, a hot air balloon ride, a couples’ massage, or even just a handwritten love note tucked into your partner’s bag. These small gestures go a long way in creating memories that last.
- Don’t Overbook Your Schedule
Leave room to just be. Watch the sunrise in bed, go for a slow walk, nap in the afternoon, or linger over dessert. The best part about an anniversary trip is enjoying time together—no rush, no rules.
Planning ahead with intention and heart makes all the difference. Whether you’re going big or keeping it simple, your trip is really about celebrating the love you’ve built –one beautiful moment at a time!
Wherever You Go, Go With Love
Whether you’re sipping wine in the hills of Tuscany, sharing s’mores by a fire in Asheville, or exploring the desert skies of Sedona, what truly makes an anniversary getaway special is the time spent together.
Choosing the right destination is just the beginning. It’s those little moments—the laughter, the quiet conversations, the shared new experiences—that make it unforgettable.
As you start planning your anniversary trip, don’t forget to check out our other helpful articles to make your celebration even more meaningful:
- Private vs. Public Anniversary Celebrations: What Suits You?
- Last-Minute Anniversary Gifts That Don’t Feel Rushed
- Anniversary Gift Etiquette: Who to Buy for and When
- Anniversary Celebration Customs in Different Cultures
- What Flowers to Gift on a Wedding Anniversary and Their Meaning
- Why Gold Is for 50 and Silver Is for 25: A Deeper Look
- Heartfelt Messages to Write in an Anniversary Card
Whether you’re planning something grand or staying close to home, your anniversary is a chance to reconnect and celebrate how far you’ve come as a couple. So wherever you decide to go, just make sure you go there together—with laughter, love, and a sense of adventure.
Hey there! I’m Cordly Grove from California, a simple woman in her 30’s who loves to express feelings through gifts. Gift-giving is something I value since I was a kid. So, here at Veiledgifts.com, I share gift ideas, what gifts symbolize and more about gift-giving culture.