At its best, romance is spontaneous. At least, that’s what the romantic movies would have us believe. It’s the hero chasing down the heroine in an airport. It’s the extemporaneous speech declaring your love. It’s changing all your plans at a moment’s notice.

Travel, on the other hand, is the opposite. It’s all about schedules and non-spontaneity.

So how do you plan a romantic getaway? Outside of the cliche speeches, heart-shaped chocolates, and bouquet-wrapped sentiments, how do you orchestrate anything romantic? Especially when travel is the true test of your union, for all the logistics and pressure it can put on relationships. But still, traveling for love, with your love, has a romantic allure.

A romantic escape can be an unexpected and delightful way to celebrate. But only if you plan it right. And plan it to suit both of your tastes.

For some, a perfect romantic getaway means relaxing on a beach somewhere tropical and sunny. On the other hand, others want to be out there pounding the pavement and taking in the sights — maybe even thrill-seeking by cliff jumping and ziplining. That’s the difference between traveling and vacationing. There’s nothing more romantic than getting it right. Whether you want to raise your heart rate with the one you love or chill out and relax with them somewhere beautiful, we have some recommendations for you.

Where is the Most Romantic Place to Travel?

The most romantic place to travel depends on your taste and how you express romance. So tell me, what does romance look like to you? Given my affinity for the movie, Under the Tuscan Sun, I won’t be satisfied until someone buys me a giant old house in Italy. But that’s my burden. Even the most unlikely destinations offer their own charm and romantic potential, especially when you’re with the right person. I have a friend who met her match while camping in a soggy tent in Yorkshire — so literally anywhere can be a backdrop for your love story.

There are the classics: places like the eternal city of Rome or, of course, the city of light itself, Paris — where even a rat can follow its dreams, an American can wreak havoc in the fashion industry, and Season Two of Heartstopper was set.

Or you can seek stillness in cities like Kyoto, Japan to see cherry blossoms bloom in spring, or a beachside resort to alternate from beach to pool and back again. My dream is the Cayman Islands (of course I want to go to Hailey Bieber’s favorite hotel, Palm Heights Grand Cayman but that’s between me and the tension to bust open my 401k).

What Are The Best Trips For Couples?

The best place to travel should be somewhere you can enjoy the things you already love while discovering new things to share. These are the experiences to bond over. If you’re looking for some couple crowd pleasers, here are the top getaways for couples:

• The Maldives: Book an overwater bungalow and swim in crystal-clear lagoons. Most isolated resorts in the Maldives are exclusive and quiet, letting you luxuriate in a secluded paradise.

• The Seychelles: Similar to the Seychelles, the richest of the rich honeymoon and vacation here. Something for the bucket list.

• Costa Rica: Whether you’re an adventurous couple, a relaxation-oriented couple, or a mix of both, there’s something for everyone in Costa Rica. Zipline and explore the outdoors, or book an eco-friendly wellness retreat. It’s also a diverse safe haven for any couple.

• The Amalfi Coast: There’s nothing like looking out onto the Amalfi Coast with the person you love. Even the Kardashians have been married here, which is a gold stamp of approval.

• Iceland: Want to experience a once-in-a-lifetime event together? Head to Iceland for a trip full of awe-inspiring waterfalls, volcanic terrains, and the Northern Lights.

• Bali: In Bali, book a luxury stay with a plunge pool for you and your significant other. You get a ton of bang for your buck if you’re willing to brave the flight.

What Are Some Romantic Weekend Ideas?

Looking to fall in love? Whether you’re single and ready to mingle or testing the strength of a newer relationship through travel (godspeed), I’ve learned from romcoms that nothing will make sparks fly quite like a new city.

If you’re looking for love abroad, head to a big city. They are usually bustling with events for people just like you — find one tailored to your interests and put yourself out there. I know the fantasy is to fall in love in the remote Irish or Scottish countryside (unless that’s just me), but heading to those towns will probably find you surrounded by more sheep than people.

Here’s where those big romantic cities come in: Rome, Paris, Mexico City, Cape Town, or even London are cities where the size doesn’t compromise the ambiance. And their bustling nature makes them even more charming. Party in Santorini and start a Greek summer romance, or visit Edinburgh in the fall and kiss your dream partner in the rain. The world is your romantic Oyster.

What is the Best Vacation for Couples in the United States?

The United States offers a diverse range of people and places for you to fall in love with. Romantic escapes are easier to find than you might think. Indulge in wine-tasting in Napa Valley in California or head to New England seaside towns for their charming inns and coastal charm. Or take a trip to Charleston, South Carolina, steeped in history and Southern hospitality. If the Outer Banks kids could fall in love there, so can you.

Here Are More Romantic Destinations Worldwide

Kyoto, Japan: Cherry blossoms, ancient tea houses, and historic gardens create a poetic atmosphere for shared moments of tranquility.

Cape Town: There’s a reason this is an increasingly popular wedding destination. The backdrop of mountains and oceans, combined with vineyards and gorgeous hospitality, draws in romantics of all kinds.

Bora Bora, French Polynesia: Overwater bungalows, coral gardens, and vibrant marine life set the stage for an intimate rendezvous.

Venice, Italy: A city of canals, gondolas, and Venetian architecture, inviting couples to lose themselves in the timeless beauty of its surroundings.

Tuscany: Italy Rolling hills, sun-kissed vineyards, and wine tastings meet old architecture and world-famous spa resorts. One of the most romantic cities in the world.

Amangiri, Utah, USA: This desert resort is a celebrity favorite. Unwind in the heat and enjoy the decadent design or partake in the on-site adventures like horseback riding and hiking.

Puerto Escondido, Mexico: This laidback surf town is the newest Mexico hotspot, especially for a vacation for two. The all-inclusive resorts take care of everything and let you have every experience imaginable.