Top 3 Romantic Travel Destinations for Couples
Traveling with your partner is a priceless experience, but it helps to plan your trip with a clear understanding of the costs involved. Here’s a breakdown of approximate budgets for visiting three of the world’s most romantic destinations: Santorini, Paris, and the Maldives. These estimates include accommodations, meals, activities, and flights (from a major international hub), giving you a clearer picture of what to expect.
1. Santorini, Greece
Why It’s Romantic: Santorini’s charming villages, iconic sunsets, and pristine beaches make it a dream destination for couples.
Estimated Budget for a 5-Day Trip (per couple):
- Flights: $800–$1,500 (round trip, depending on your location and the season)
- Accommodations:
- Budget: $80–$150 per night (guesthouses or small hotels)
- Mid-range: $200–$400 per night (boutique hotels with caldera views)
- Luxury: $500–$1,200 per night (private villas with infinity pools)
- Meals:
- Budget: $20–$40 per day (local tavernas and casual dining)
- Mid-range: $60–$100 per day (mid-range restaurants)
- Luxury: $150+ per day (fine dining with wine)
- Activities:
- Sunset catamaran cruise: $150–$250 per person
- Wine tasting tour: $50–$100 per person
- Beach lounging: Free or minimal cost for sunbed rentals ($10–$20 per day)
- Local Transport: $50–$80 for car or ATV rentals for a few days.
Total Estimated Cost:
- Budget: $2,200–$3,000
- Mid-range: $3,500–$5,000
- Luxury: $6,000+
2. Paris, France
Why It’s Romantic: Known as the "City of Love," Paris offers couples timeless charm, iconic landmarks, and world-class dining.
Estimated Budget for a 5-Day Trip (per couple):
- Flights: $700–$1,200 (round trip, depending on the season and location)
- Accommodations:
- Budget: $100–$150 per night (2-star hotels or Airbnb rentals)
- Mid-range: $200–$400 per night (3–4-star hotels)
- Luxury: $500–$1,500 per night (5-star hotels or luxury boutique stays)
- Meals:
- Budget: $20–$40 per day (bakeries, street food, or casual bistros)
- Mid-range: $70–$120 per day (brasseries or mid-tier restaurants)
- Luxury: $200+ per day (Michelin-starred dining or fine dining)
- Activities:
- Eiffel Tower (summit access): $30–$60 per person
- Seine River cruise: $20–$80 per person (depending on inclusions)
- Louvre or Musée d’Orsay tickets: $20–$30 per person
- Walking tours or guided experiences: $30–$100 per person.
- Local Transport: $30–$50 (Metro passes or ride-sharing services).
Total Estimated Cost:
- Budget: $2,000–$3,000
- Mid-range: $3,500–$5,000
- Luxury: $6,000+
3. Maldives
Why It’s Romantic: The Maldives offers ultimate seclusion with overwater villas, turquoise lagoons, and stunning sunsets.
Estimated Budget for a 5-Day Trip (per couple):
- Flights: $1,200–$2,500 (round trip, depending on your location and the season)
- Accommodations:
- Budget: $150–$300 per night (local guesthouses on inhabited islands)
- Mid-range: $400–$700 per night (4-star resorts or beachside bungalows)
- Luxury: $1,000–$5,000 per night (private overwater villas or luxury resorts)
- Meals:
- Budget: $30–$50 per day (local restaurants or resort buffets)
- Mid-range: $80–$150 per day (resort restaurants or private dining experiences)
- Luxury: $200+ per day (premium dining or private chefs)
- Activities:
- Snorkeling or diving trips: $50–$150 per person
- Couples’ spa treatment: $200–$400 per couple
- Sunset cruise: $150–$300 per couple
- Bioluminescent beach visits: Free (if accessible).
- Local Transport:
- Seaplane or speedboat transfers: $100–$500 per person (varies based on the resort location).
Total Estimated Cost:
- Budget: $3,000–$4,500
- Mid-range: $5,000–$8,000
- Luxury: $10,000+
Tips to Save on Costs
- Travel During the Off-Season: Visit Santorini in spring or autumn, Paris in winter (excluding Christmas), and the Maldives from May to October to save on flights and accommodations.
- Book in Advance: Early bookings, especially for flights and accommodations, can help lock in lower prices.
- Consider Alternatives: For Paris, explore Airbnb or stay in nearby suburbs. In the Maldives, look into locally-owned guesthouses instead of luxury resorts.
- Use Packages: Many resorts in the Maldives and Santorini offer honeymoon or couple packages, which include meals, activities, and spa treatments.
No matter your budget, these romantic destinations can be tailored to provide an unforgettable experience. Whether you're exploring the caldera views of Santorini, wandering the charming streets of Paris, or lounging in an overwater villa in the Maldives, the magic of these places will leave you and your partner with memories to cherish for a lifetime.