50 Unique Vacation Ideas for Couples

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Romantic beach destinations are often a favorite with couples and honeymooners and there is certainly much to choose from. Whether you are looking for white sandy beaches of Oahu, the world's best pink sand beaches or black sand beaches, there are amazing choices all around the world. Explore the beaches of Costa Rica, Michigan, Oregon, North Carolina and California.

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It’s hard to find a more romantic autumn getaway than a trip to Finland. Watching the Northern Lights dancing in the night sky from an igloo, venturing out on an Aurora Borealis snowshoe or cross-country ski tour, or experiencing a husky safari along the Taiga forest gives travelers a taste of this remarkable destination. Named among top travel destinations worldwide, Finland excites year-round with its natural beauty, including the iconic nighttime summer sun. Visitors can explore everything from lakes and forests to peat lands and fells. In Helsinki, couples can experience urban spa complexes that soothe the senses, explore the Moomin Museum to tickle the fancy, and dine on the complex flavors of Finnish ‘wild’ food.

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The compact city of San Francisco on California’s northern coast with its iconic hills and cable cars offers couples an array of possibilities for a fun getaway. Couples looking for a little romance should consider a sunset sail through San Francisco Bay, martinis at Top of the Mark, and admiring the Bay Lights on the western span of Bay Bridge. Traditional couples wanting the classic San Fran experience will want to visit Fisherman’s Wharf, Chinatown, Coit Tower, and the Golden Gate Bridge. Quirky couples may want to glide down the Seward Street Slides, catch a movie at the historic Castro Theater, and visit the Wave Organ, an acoustic sculpture. Things to Do in San Francisco

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Saint Lucia has long been considered a premier Caribbean destination, especially for couples. Sun-kissed days on the island are filled with fun activities for two from beachside massages to horseback riding, four-wheeling, and zip lining. Adventurous couples will appreciate watersports like diving, snorkeling, sailing, and kite-surfing, to name a few. Known as one of the Caribbean’s most beautiful islands, couples will adore palm fringed, volcanic beaches, an interior of unspoiled rainforest, and the gorgeous peaks of the Piton Mountains. Northern St. Lucia is all about luxurious resorts, superb restaurants, award-winning spas, and lively night life. The southern part of the island is all about quiet romance, nature, and tranquility. Things to Do in Saint Lucia

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A couple’s getaway to New York City calls for focus. There are so many phenomenal things to see and do, that the savvy couple will need a plan. For striking views of the Big Apple, the obvious choice is the Empire State Building, but One World Observatory and Top of the Rock are equally impressive. A show on Broadway is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for the out-of-towner. A Taste of Harlem food and culture tour is a must-do before taking in a show at the Apollo Theater. Of course, a trip to New York City would be incomplete without a visit to Central Park for a romantic horse and carriage ride, or ice skating at Wollman Rink. Things to Do in NYC

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The couple who truly wants to get away will adore the Seychelles, an archipelago in the Indian Ocean, where they can book a stay on a private island, or rent a yacht for the ultimate in privacy. Luxury can be found at numerous five-star retreats and remote resorts. Anse Source D’argent is one of the most surreal and beautiful beaches in the world, perfect for lounging on the beach and snorkeling. Simple pleasures include a heritage tour of La Digue that includes traditional coconut oil processing and seeing 200-year-old giant tortoises. The “love nut” found on a guided walk through Praslin’s Vallée de Mai nature park is a quirky side note to the ethereal World Heritage Site.

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Kauai, also known as the Garden Island, is covered with tropical rainforests crisscrossed by rivers and dotted with mesmerizing waterfalls. This getaway will appeal to the independent couple looking for an authentic, off-the-beaten-path getaway. Nature takes center stage here with a variety of outdoor activities like zip lining, hiking, snorkeling, and kayaking. Some parts of the island, especially along the dramatic cliffs of the Napali Coast on the North Shore, can only be accessed by sea. All the action happens on the South Shore where couples can shop, golf, lounge around Poipu Beach Park, and watch the Spouting Horn blowhole. Koloa Heritage Trail that explores culture, history, and geology from Poipu to Old Koloa Town is a must-do.Kauai, also known as the Garden Island, is covered with tropical rainforests crisscrossed by rivers and dotted with mesmerizing waterfalls. This getaway will appeal to the independent couple looking for an authentic, off-the-beaten-path getaway. Nature takes center stage here with a variety of outdoor activities like zip lining, hiking, snorkeling, and kayaking. Some parts of the island, especially along the dramatic cliffs of the Napali Coast on the North Shore, can only be accessed by sea. All the action happens on the South Shore where couples can shop, golf, lounge around Poipu Beach Park, and watch the Spouting Horn blowhole. Koloa Heritage Trail that explores culture, history, and geology from Poipu to Old Koloa Town is a must-do. Keep reading for more couples vacations. Best resorts in Kauai

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San Diego lives up to its moniker as America’s Finest City. California’s southernmost city has 70 miles of Pacific coastline, broad beaches, the largest urban park in the U.S., and 100 interesting neighborhoods. There are nearly 20 hotels and resorts that cater to adults for a romantic stay, including boutique 1906 Lodge on Coronado Island and swanky Andaz in East Village. Balboa Park with its museums, Old Globe Theatre, San Diego Zoo, and Prado Restaurant could fill up an entire getaway itinerary. Renting a story-telling GoCar on a GPS-guided route is a fun way to explore the city together from a one-hour neighborhood tour to an all-day see it all tour. Things to Do in San Diego

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From relaxing under the Tuscan sun in Piombino to the iconic gondola rides of Venice, Italy has no shortage of destinations perfect for a couple’s getaway. For couples who love classic Italian architecture and culture, there’s no better destination than Rome, beginning with the Pantheon. Cinque Terre and the Amalfi coast provide a jaw-dropping views, exquisite dining, and colorful cliffside villages. Lake Como not only provides a relaxing and tranquil getaway, quaint villas, and beautiful vistas, but there’s also the chance of running into a European or Hollywood star, since many make their homes here. The Medieval towns in the charming hills of Umbria offer a fusion of nature and art. Places to Visit in Italy

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Couples will fall in love with the only country in the world that’s also a continent. Australia is the perfect couple’s paradise situated between the South Pacific and Indian Oceans. The Great Barrier Reef off the coast of Cairns is its premier attraction. Couples can experience its wonders together snorkeling, kayaking, and exploring, and at the end of the day, retreat to Bedarra Island at one of eight private villas hidden in the rainforest. Trendy couples will thrill to the coastal cities of Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth. Adventurous types will be drawn to the mountains and savannahs of the red sand outback. Keep reading for more couples vacations. Places to Visit in Australia

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Bora Bora is an island in Tahiti’s Society Islands archipelago of French Polynesia. This self-proclaimed Romance Central is an other-worldly getaway for couples. The slopes of Mount Otemanu are lush and green with tropical vegetation dotted with fragrant hibiscus blooms. Powdery white-sand beaches, swaying coconut palms, and an emerald lagoon are inviting symbols of paradise. Couples can choose overwater, thatched-roof floating villas with direct access from room or suite to the lagoon, or other luxury accommodations. There are plenty of water sports, plus sunset sails, motu (island) picnics, hiking, four-wheeling, and even helicopter touring. Snorkeling Bora Bora Lagoonarium and the Coral Gardens are must-do activities. Things to Do in Bora Bora

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Aspen is best known as a ski town nestled in the Colorado Rocky Mountains that is a wildly popular winter getaway, but it’s a cool destination for couples year-round. One must-do activity is taking the Silver Queen Gondola to the top of Aspen Mountain and having a moonlight dinner with live music on a Friday night. There’s partner yoga at Aspen Spa, or a couple’s massage at Reméde Spa for working out life’s stresses together. It doesn’t get more romantic than a champagne brunch followed by a hot air balloon ride above the Rockies. Things to Do in Aspen

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Couples who love nature as much as each other will find their perfect getaway in Costa Rica. Long considered one of the world’s most bio-diverse countries, partners will find plenty of places to commune with nature like walking through the cloud forest at Poas Volcano National Park, or hiking the tropical forest of Manuel Antonio Park on the lookout for capuchin monkeys, coatis, sloths, and the elusive quetzal. Costa Rica is also a great destination where couples can satisfy their cultural curiosities with sustainable cuisine, local artisan handicrafts, creole swing dance, and historical walks in San José, Cartago, Puntarenas, and Limón. Next read: Costa Rica beaches, Places to Visit in Costa Rica

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Colorado Springs offers couples an enchanting getaway in the mountains. Outdoorsy couples looking for a unique getaway will find it at an authentic Colorado Springs guest ranch. At Lost Valley Ranch couples can choose Western adventures from cattle round-ups to rodeos, cowboy cookouts, square dancing, and many others. The Broadmoor Fly Fishing Camp provides couples with a world-class fishing experience combined with accommodations in a 1940s miner’s cabin. City slickers will be inspired by Colorado Springs’s craft brew scene. With over 30 craft breweries and distilleries, taking the Crafts and Drafts tour is the best way to sample them. An absolute must-do is a trip to the top of Pike’s Peak together – by car, train, bike, or on foot. Things to Do in Colorado Springs

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London getaways for two are all about choices. Equestrians will want to take the reins along the famous Rotten Row bridle path in Hyde Park. The 322-foot-long champagne bar in St. Pancras Renaissance London Hotel, self-proclaimed the “most romantic building” in London, is the place to toast life together with one of over 17 champagne varieties. A stroll along the Grand Canal in Little Venice to admire the colorful houseboats offers quiet moments. Or, couples can take in the cosmopolitan charm of Notting Hill with its edgy art and theater scene and distinctive restaurants. Of course, there’s the obligatory Buckingham Palace Tour followed by afternoon tea. Savvy couples can plan their getaway around one of the city’s popular events like Wimbledon, the oldest tennis tournament in the world. Things to Do in London

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Everyone defines a couple’s getaway differently. For hockey fans, especially Toronto Maple Leaf fans, there’s nothing quite like experiencing the thrill of victory together surrounded by equally passionate, screaming fans. For a more subdued on ice experience, couples can make their way to Nathan Phillips Square for a few arm-in-arm laps around the rink. Partners can break out the long white gloves and black bowtie at the Canadian Opera Company in the Four Seasons Center for the Performing Arts. Things to Do in Toronto

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Paris was made for romance. Of course, nothing is more romantic than nighttime views from the top of Eiffel Tower. A late-afternoon walk along the River Seine to watch the dramatic tango dancers, or a stroll through the hidden alleyways with their charming bars and eateries makes for a few pleasurable hours of coziness. Shared conversation over a glass of wine at Clos de Montmartre gives couples down time in a beautiful setting. Couples will definitely want to make their ways to Bois de Vincennes Park where they’ll discover the Temple of Love on an island in the middle of the lake. It can be accessed by footbridge or rowboat. Things to Do in Paris

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A last minute couple’s getaway to Miami means choosing the neighborhood that matches the vibe you’re looking for. From the exuberant American Riviera of South Beach to the haute community of the Design District to the historic culture of Overtown, this city can satisfy the most discriminating couple. Nature lovers can explore Everglades National Park for hiking, biking, fishing, and camping. Biscayne offers couples opportunities to explore the nation’s largest marine park. History buffs will be enchanted with Vizcaya Museum & Gardens in Coconut Grove. The Venetian Pool, a historic swimming pool with stone bridges and waterfalls, offers a mix of beauty and tranquility. Next read: Miami beaches, Things to Do in Miami

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Santorini is a group of five Greek Islands in the southern Cyclades. This is the premier destination for romance in all of Greece. Oia is renowned for its famous sunset views, but will also dazzle couples with its panoramic views, stunning architecture, and delectable Greek cuisine. In fact, combining an Oia sunset with a scrumptious dinner at Ambrosia restaurant will make for incredible memories. A ride up or down the Fira cliffs on the modern Santorini Cable Car is not only fast, but offers spectacular views. Hot Springs and volcano mudbath tours from Old Port provide a sensual few hours of fun.

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Romance is in the air on the Emerald Isle. The socially conscious couple may want to spend time in Dublin’s Temple Bar district where they’ll find the Amnesty International Fair Trade Shop among numerous other stores, restaurants, and art galleries. Vintage Tea Tours acquaint couples with Dublin on a double-decker bus tour while enjoying afternoon tea delicacies with 1950s jazz music. It doesn’t get much more romantic than touring Ireland’s Ancient East, land of Vikings, high kings, heroes, and castles. Adventurous couples will get their thrills from a last minute getaway to Ireland’s Atlantic Coast as they rock climb sea stacks, kayak off Renvyle Beach, or cycle the Wild Atlantic Way.

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Luxembourg is probably the most interesting country in Europe, and is definitely the most diverse. In the Ardennes region, visitors will find a majority of the country’s castles. A last minute getaway to charming Vianden can include a tour of Vianden Castle and panoramic views of Our Valley. A quick visit to Remich means seeing the best of the Moselle wine region where couples can taste and learn about local wines. Luxembourg City is teeming with historic treasures including the Grand Ducal Palace and the Bock Casements. Wherever couples choose to land, they can be sure the local cuisine will be exquisite, since Luxembourg has a higher density of star rated restaurants than any country in the world.

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Vermont is a favorite year-round travel destination for couples planning a last minute getaway. Autumn is stunning with its displays of red, orange, and yellow leaves in late September or early October. In winter, couples can hit the ski slopes and take in the beautiful scenery together. Besides pleasant spring snow skiing, couples can also visit one of the many sugarhouses making maple syrup. Summer brings camping, fly fishing, and golfing, plus a plethora of festivals and celebrations. Those who thrive on arts and culture will get plenty of satisfaction in Vermont with an abundance of museums, galleries, sculpture parks, artisan shops, and even a sweet trip to Ben & Jerry’s ice cream factory. Places to Visit in VT

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Holland is home to Vincent Van Gogh, one of Europe’s most famous artists. A last minute getaway to Amsterdam can include a trip to the Van Gogh Museum to see the world’s largest collection of his work, but visiting his home in the Brabant region can be equally fun. A trip to one of Holland’s famous wellness centers could be just what the doctor ordered for the harried couple. Flower and gardening enthusiasts can take their getaway to Lisse and the annual tulip festival in April. Cycling is a big pastime in Holland, and couples who enjoy the sport will find plenty of last minute tours like the Super Tulip Tour or the Windmills and Pastures Tour. Things to Do in Holland

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Norway tops the list of happiest countries in the world, so where better to go for a last minute couple’s getaway? For duos wanting a romantic experience, it doesn’t get much better than seeing the Northern Lights, and staying at an ice hotel in the Arctic town of Tromso. Other quick getaways include fascinating activities like two days on a whale research safari, or a day of cruising the UNESCO World Heritage Fjord Geiranger on a sightseeing boat. Adventurous couples may want to indulge in the rush of a guided glacier tour or a guided ice cave tour. Just hanging out for a few days in Oslo or Bergen can be a restorative experience.