When you clicked this link, did you already have the answers to the question, where are the 10 most romantic Valentine’s Day travel destinations in mind? If you think so, you are wrong! Everyone thinks of Paris, or the Bahamas, or Hawaii. Yeah, those romantic spots have been done to death.
No, for this list, we really wanted to actually find the most romantic destinations for Valentine’s Day and not the typical places you think of. Believe it or not, there are places just as romantic as, if not more romantic, than Paris in February. Granted, you will likely pay more to go to one of these destinations than you would if you just hopped on a plane to the Florida Keys, but believe us, it is worth it!
Valentine’s Day – whether invented by Hallmark to sell more greeting cards or not – is considered one of the most romantic days of the year. If you are going out with someone, going steady, engaged, or married, you will not be forgiven for forgetting Valentine’s Day and how you choose to celebrate it will determine just how romantic that night will be.
So, with that in mind, if you really want to knock the socks off of the one you love, why not reach for something extraordinary this year? We have the ticket – rather – 10 tickets to the 10 most romantic Valentine’s Day destinations and deals to make this year extra special.
1. Italy
Be Romeo to Your Juliet (Or Juliet to Your Romeo – Or Romeo to Your Romeo – you get it.) Shakespeare’s ill-fated lovers met in Verona before they killed themselves. Of course, we are hoping for a wonderfully romantic Valentine’s Day for you and your lover – free from death! But while you’re there, why not visit the famous balcony from Romeo and Juliet where you can carve your initials in the wall or seal your love with a padlock on the “lovers’ wall” in Verona?
This ancient city is both small and full of things to see. You can visit the Roman Amphitheater which has stood for 2000 years! Climb to the top of Piazzale Castel San Pietro to see panoramic views of Verona. But, the really fantastic thing about traveling to Verona for Valentine’s Day is the slow vibe and festival of succulent foods to explore.
Not to mention, Venice is just an hour away. Go in February and show up just in time for Carnival and the nearly millennium old masquerade ball in the Piazza San Marco. You can find flight and hotel package deals for less than $900 per person, depending on how lavish you want your trip to be.
2. Mnemba Island, Zanzibar
Bet you didn’t think of Africa when you thought of the most romantic destinations! Well here’s a little gem you’ve been missing out on. Zanzibar has been called “Spice Island” for centuries. Situated on the east coast of Africa, the culture and cuisine of Zanzibar has been influenced by its proximity to the Middle East and Portugal.
You can expect to taste an eclectic mix of delicious foods – seasoned with some amazing spice combinations that you won’t find anywhere else! Another thing you can expect is damn near perfect weather anytime you travel there. However, February is considered the best time of year to visit the Islands of Zanzibar.
Just off of the coast of Zanzibar is Mnemba Island. There you will experience the most exclusive and private romantic destination of all. There are only ten bungalows on the entire Island – talk about intimate. You’ll be traveling to Africa so airfare and hotel is going to cost you a pretty penny, but not as much as you might think. You can find a nice Island hotel for around $1,400 per person but a really nice hotel or bungalow package will cost you on average between $1,700 and $2,000 each.
3. The Exumas, Bahamas
Okay, so you might have guessed the Bahamas but have you heard of the Great Exumas? The Exumas in the Bahamas are hundreds of cays, located about a half an hour from Nassau. It’s not very far from Miami – only 300 air miles and it is not nearly as populated as most islands in the Bahamas – that’s what makes it so romantic!
Not only is it exclusive, it’s gorgeous; beautiful, pristine waters, white sands, and plenty of waterfront resorts. You can go diving, snorkeling, swimming, or just sunbathing on the beach. One curiosity is the sight of a bunch of pigs and piglets swimming in the water, greeting you as you arrive on the shore. Yep – pigs.
To ramp up the romance, you could book a stay on the private resort island of Fowl Cay right near Pig Beach. It’s exclusive, quiet, and jam packed with luxury. Same is true for nearby Four Seasons Nevis. There you’re likely to catch a glimpse of high society and some of your favorite movie stars. Those spots are going to cost you over $3,000 per person but you can find a very fancy hotel and flight package to the Exumas for around $1,500.
4. Ibiza, España
Spain is a bucket list destination for many people and Ibiza, though not as well known as some other cities in Spain, is no different. However, we chose this destination as one of the most romantic Valentine’s Day spots you can find because February is the off season in Ibiza.
That means that you will have more privacy while you’re there. You won’t be overwhelmed by large crowds. And because it is off season, you’re going to be able to wine and dine for cheap! That way you can really do up the pomp when you choose where you want to stay.
Another cool thing about Ibiza in February is that it is Carnival time at the beginning of February. You may miss the parades and crowds but the party atmosphere still goes on all throughout the month of February. For flight and hotel, you are only going to pay between $800 and $1,000 per person.
5. Bahia, Brazil
In many parts of this country, February is cold and bleak. In South America, the party is just heating up. Home to the biggest and baddest Carnival celebrations in the world, you may not get exclusivity for your romantic Valentine’s Day destination but you will have a ball!
When you think Carnival, you are thinking of Brazil. Rio de Janeiro gets all of the buzz, but Bahia is where the Afro-Brazilian culture was born. It’s like in New Orleans, you don’t need Carnival to hear meringue, salsa, and reggae music blaring down the streets, but when it is Carnival, you can’t beat this slice of life.
There is over 600 miles worth of coastline in Bahia where you’ll find a crazy number of different beaches and beach crowds. Just beyond the sands is the jungle! To travel to Bahia and stay at a nice hotel, you are looking to pay somewhere between $1,600 and $2,000 per person.
6. Mexico City, Mexico
Of all of the places to visit in Mexico, one destination you don’t normally associate with romance is Mexico City, but it makes our list because it is! First, February is a great time of year to visit Mexico City. It gets too hot in June to be comfortable and generally speaking, the temperatures stay mild and dry in February.
Mexico City is busy, bustling, and full of places to see. Influenced by Spaniards, Mayans, and South Americans, you will find plenty of interesting history to explore. What really makes it romantic is how many beach resorts you can choose from, from the most exclusive to the most raucous.
February is the perfect time to go to the beach to see a real live humpback whale migrating up the Pacific Coast or to watch millions of butterflies traverse the city on the way to Canada. Best of all, this is one of the most affordable luxury destinations you’ll find. Prices per person start as low as $680 and average around $800.
7. Buenos Aires, Argentina
Did you know that Buenos Aires is called the “Capital of Romance”? It’s the place where the sexy hot Tango was born. How could it not make our list of the 10 most romantic Valentine’s Day destinations! February is the perfect time to visit this amazing city for all kinds of reasons.
The weather in February is absolute perfection. It’s not too hot and not too cold. Look anywhere around the city and you’ll catch a postcard worthy vista. On top of that, Argentina is wine country! You’ll get hammered just sampling the many different varieties of world class wines.
When it comes to food, come on! If you are a meat eater, you’re going to love Argentina. A fun fact about Argentina is that the country raises beef – prime beef. Everywhere you go, you’ll find top quality steak and wine; an ideal combo for romantic dining. You can find fabulous hotel and flight packages from between $1,200 and $1,600.
8. Maldives to Sri Lanka
Another destination you don’t normally associate with romance is the Maldives. If you don’t know, the Maldives is basically a country made up of over a thousand tiny islands – exclusivity! It’s almost entirely a beach resort where tourists come to water-ski, snorkel, go diving, canoeing, parasailing, and just lying on the beach.
A perfect constant ocean breeze clashes with ideal warm temps to create a paradisiacal island vacation. You basically have the island all to yourself. White sands, crystal clear waters, and coconut trees all over the place, the Maldives rival any of your standard romantic hot spots.
That’s not all! Sri Lanka is also a luxury island situated a short hour away from the Maldives. You can turn this into a two stop Valentine’s Day destination. Now, to give you an idea of how romantic, how exclusive, and how luxurious this destination is – flight and hotel packages will run you between $4,000 and $6,000 per person. In other words, you have to have some coin to make this your Valentine’s Day destination—but it would be most romantic!
9. Casablanca, Morocco
Casablanca is so well-known because of the classic Humphrey Bogart movie that somehow turns running away from Nazis into one of the most romantic movies of all time. That’s because Morocco itself (where Casablanca is located) is the place to be for romance.
Variety is the spice of life in Casablanca. Street markets, colorful decorations, and a lovely soft climate in February make this a terrific Valentine’s Day destination. You can see snow in the mountains or take a camel ride out into the Sahara desert to camp out for the night – that’s true privacy!
Morocco also has its share of delectable beaches that attract water lovers from all over the world. You can go snorkeling, hiking, camelback riding, or just sit and sip exotic beverages at one of the many outdoor cafes. Considering you will be traveling all the way to Africa, the fact that you can find flight and hotel packages for less than $800 is more than a deal – it’s a steal! Go really high class and pay $1,200 per person to stay in an ultra luxurious hotel.
10. New Orleans, Louisiana
Last on our list, we bring it all back home to the USA and our own version of Carnival in New Orleans, Louisiana. Fat Tuesday or Mardi Gras doesn’t begin until the first week in March this year, but Louisianans are known for getting the party started early and keeping it going all month long.
Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to travel to New Orleans to get the feel and vibe of Mardi Gras without the actual Mardi Gras crowds. Stay in the French Quarter to be close to all of the action or stay a little ways outside of town to keep your intimate time together real low key.
You’ll find the city rich with history. The food is an amazing mix of cultural and historical clashes through the centuries with its French roots and peculiar history of slavery. There are flight and hotel packages as low as just over $400 dollars but for something nice and romantic, prepare to lay out at least a grand per person.
Romantic Hotels and Overnights
1. C Lazy U Ranch, Granby, Colorado
If your significant other is more the down home ranch type or if getting away from the kids for a romantic weekend is just not an option, the C Lazy U Ranch is open for a wonderful Valentine’s Day experience. The year-round working cattle ranch has been taken over by Cupid and it may be just the place to spend a few unique and romantic days.
Here, there are no prepackaged specials or deals just an all-inclusive price with activities that can customize the experience for any type of couple or family. Lodging varies from private cabins to large spacious rooms. The all-inclusive rates vary by number of persons and season. Dining is on site and meals are served with a family style buffet. Three meals a day are served with alcoholic beverages available at additional cost.
Winter activities such as cross-country skiing, ice skating and hockey are available and for those who wish to remain indoors there is a game room, fitness room, and spa. Reservations can be booked online and PDF brochures are available. All the comforts of a hotel stay with a once in a lifetime experience make this a special place for a romantic getaway.
C Lazy U Ranch | 3640 Colorado Hwy 125, PO Box 379, Granby, Colorado 80446 | Phone: 970-887-3344 | Website: www.clazyu.com
2. Hillbrook Inn and Spa, Charles Town, WV
Located in the historic town of Charles Town, WV, the Hillbrook Inn and Spa has been welcoming visitors for romantic visits for much of its operation. Located on 30 acres of land purchased by George Washington in 1750, the Inn is just a reasonable distance from Washington D.C. Wander the beautiful grounds or visit the Hollywood Casino at the Charles Town Race track.
Who said Atlantic City and Vegas were the only places to try your luck. Valentine’s packages are available with a 20% discount for 2 or more nights anc can be booked any time during the month. Take in a day at the onsite spa or enjoy the chef prepared foods at the Redwood Restaurant, also on site. Venture into town for small town shopping or learning more about the history of the town.
Rooms and suites are available in the Main House or in smaller more secluded locations throughout the property. Amenities and rates vary by location and length of stay. A variety of packages are available for couples. Reservations can be booked online as can spa treatments.
The Hillbrook Inn and Spa | Address: 4490 Summit Point Rd., Charles Town, WV 25414 | Phone: 304·725·4223 or 800·304·4223 | Website: www.hillbrookinn.com | Email: info@hillbrookinn.com
3. Fairview Inn, Jackson, MS
If you are looking for a more traditional Valentine’s Day package in an unexpected place, check out this Southern home turned Inn just a few miles away from the mighty Mississippi River. With three different packages from which to choose, there is a option for most any budget.
Weekday, one night stays start at $395 per couple. Each includes lodging, Southern style breakfast for two and $100 toward a romantic dinner at the 1908 Restaurant located downstairs. The farm-to-table menu is offered in an upscale but casual atmosphere typical of Southern style and cuisine. Other packages include a dozen roses and chocolate dipped strawberries upon arrival.
Rooms and suites are available in the completely restored period building with antebellum architecture and rates vary with type of accommodations. An onsite spa provides treatments for guests. Packages are available during the entire month of February. Reservations can be made through the Inn’s online booking link. Airport service is available in Jackson.
Fairview Inn | 734 Fairview Street, Jackson, MS 39202 | Phone: 601-948-3429 | Fax 601-948-1203 | Toll Free 888-948-1908 | Website: www.fairviewinn.com | Email: Reservations@fairviewinn.com
4. Chula Vista Resort and Waterpark, Wisconsin Dells, WI
A couple of night’s stay in Wisconsin during the dead of winter may not be the first thought you have for a romantic Valentine’s Day but this year-round water park offers a wide variety of accommodations nestled along the Wisconsin River. Lodging is available by room, suite, condominiums or villas. Start your stay with a couple’s massage at the onsite spa.
Move on to the outdoor Hot Springs surrounded by white pines, heated concrete decks and two-story Adobe fireplace. If that isn’t enough, enjoy the uniquely designed indoor waterpark with its many features. Finally, have dinner at one of the best steak restaurants in the area located on site.
Daily specials are listed on the resort’s website and include a variety of packages. Amenities include game rooms, fitness facilities, a riverwalk, an indoor tunnel and 4D Action Cinema with weekly features. Reservations can be made by contacting the resort or by using the site’s online booking tool.
Chula Vista Resort and Waterpark | Address: 2501 River Rd. Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965 | Phone: (855) 388-4782 | Email: info@chulavistaresort.com | Website: www.chulavistaresort.com
5. Valentine’s Dinner Train, Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad, Garibaldi, OR
This special one day event includes a scenic trip through the some of the most beautiful coastal property in Oregon ( Tillamook and Nehalem Bays plus the Pacific Ocean) and combines it with a dinner option for a unique and special time. Two dinner/ seating options are offered. With the first you can pack a picnic of favorite foods and eat in casual surroundings in the Club Car.
The second option is to enjoy a four course meal in the privacy of the Dining Car. Tables are available for 2 or 4 people. The meal has a choice of entree (Prime Rib, Salmon, Pork Loin or Eggplant Parmesan) with salads, sides, bread and dessert. Cost varies between $39 - $90 per person and reservations can be made up to the Wednesday before the event.
The date for the event is Saturday, February 16th. Make a weekend of it by staying at one of the local lodging establishments near the depot. Shops, restaurants and other activities surround the train line. Schedules and ticket purchases can be made online.
Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad | Address: 306 American Ave Garibaldi, Oregon 97118 | Phone: 1-888-718-4253 | Email: info@oregoncoastscenic.org | Website: www.oregoncoastscenic.org
6. Valentine’s Murder Mystery Dinner Theater, Le Chene, Santa Clarita, CA
If a trip to France is not in the realm of possibility than a Valentine’s Day Murder Mystery The all inclusive meal includes might be the next best option. Good food, wonderful atmosphere and and a Sharpo Murder Mystery combine to make a special evening for those who like a good who-done-it.
Taking place for one day only, this February 14th event starts with cocktails and appetizers at 6:30 then moves to the dinner and show that ends about 10 pm. Cost is $145 per person and has choice of entree, salad, sides and dessert.
Seating is by tables of 10 so this is a great opportunity to share the evening with like minded couples. Reservations can be made online. The restaurant is open 7 days a week and offers special meals that can be just as enjoyable for couples who are looking for something a bit simpler.
Le Chene | Address: 12625 Sierra Highway, Santa Clarita, California 91390 | Phone: 661.251.4315 | Website: www.lechene.com
7. Hotel Valencia on the Riverwalk, San Antonio TX
This boutique hotel offers a perfect mixture of atmosphere and amenities in a special riverside location. Within one of the largest metropolitan areas in Texas, couples can enjoy warm breezes and cool nights as they walk arm in arm down the Riverwalk. Valentine’s day packages include chilled champagne and chocolate covered strawberries but vary in price according to room accommodations.
Stay in if you like and experience an in room massage or make use of the 24 hour room service. For the more social couple, enjoy the many fine restaurants and shops located within a short walk of the hotel. Visit the onsite restaurant for a delicious breakfast before checking out. Complimentary WiFi is available and special prices apply for those who book online.
Hotel Valencia Riverwalk | Address: 150 East Houston Street, San Antonio, TX 78205 | Phone: 210.227.9700 | Fax: 210.227.9701 | Reservations: 855.596.3387 | Email: sareservations@valenciagroup.com | Website: www.valenciagroup.com
8. Tranquility Bay Oceanfront Resort, Florida Keys
Skip the traditional oceanfront beach hotel this Valentine’s Day and go a bit farther South to enjoy a warm and inviting tropical garden stay. With three swimming pools, palm trees and a 2.5 mile long private beach complete with white sand, you will think you have ordered up a private retreat for you and your loved one.
Soak up the sun and enjoy the best restaurant in the area or go deep sea fishing, diving or cruise the nearby islands. If land activities are more your style, practice your putting on greens designed by Nicholas Designs, enjoy a game of beach volleyball, or shop till you drop at local businesses. Rooms are available in the main building or 2 and 3 room beach houses which offer privacy and luxury. Rates vary with accomodations and day of the week.
Tranquility Bay Oceanfront Resort | Address: 2600 Overseas Highway Marathon FL 33050 | Phone: 305.289.0888 | Fax: 305.289.0667 | Website: www.tranquilitybay.com
9. Be Mine Valentine's Day Beer and Wine Tour, Ronkonkoma, NY
This age 21+ event is just $160 per couple and includes all transportation, beverage tasting and light snacks. The event is likely to be a chilly one so be sure to dress warmly for the many stops and wine cellar visits on this event filled day. Jump on the bus at any of the 6 pickup Long Island Expressway locations (beginning at about 11:30 am). Gourmet chocolate and cheeses are served on the bus.
First stop will be Riverhead Cider House for a tasting event of local ciders and wines. Relax in this unique restaurant while learning about winery. It will be back on the bus for a trip to Long Ireland Brewery for a tasting experience of local beers. Before you know it, the bus will begin taking guests back to their pickup locations by 4 pm.
Feel free to bring snacks along with you or food is available for purchase at the two local establishments. Reservations can be booked online or by calling the Tapped Enterprises office. This event is only offered on Sunday, February 17th. While not exactly the same, two other Mardi Gras themed events are available on February 2nd and 10th. Tapped Enterprises began in 2008 offering tours and transportation for events such as weddings, meetings, winery tours and special events.
Tapped Enterprises | Ronkonkoma, NY | Phone: 631-913-3817 | Email: kevin@tappedenterprises.com | Website: www.tappedenterprises.com
10. 2019 Valentine’s Day Package, Little River Inn, Little River, CA
Perhaps this list should end on a traditional style Valentine’s Day package but in a special oceanside location. Imagine a two-night stay in a room with a view of the storm swept coastline. The gas logged fireplace is gently warming the room while chocolate dipped strawberries and chilled sparkling wine await.
Later there will be a romantic dinner for two in the Garden Dining Room and there will be breakfast for two before you check out. Add a couple’s massage for a great relaxing afternoon. Golf and shopping are other activities that can be enjoyed. Packages begin at $625 per couple. Reservations can be made online.
Little River Inn | Address: 7901 N. Highway One, Little River, CA 95456 (Two miles south of Mendocino village) | Phone: 1-707-937-594, 1-888-INN-LOVE (Toll Free) | Email: Info@LittleRiverInn.com | Website: www.littleriverinn.com
Now that you have some ideas of how to spend a romantic day or two with that special person, all that is left is for you to make your plans and follow through. With some planning, 2019 could be the unique and special event that will put all future Cupid’s day celebrations to shame. Enjoy!
