The Most Romantic Destinations In the World

The 20 Most Romantic Landmarks in the World

Romantic getaways come in many forms, from wild landscapes that make you feel like the only two people on earth to vibrant cities that glow with possibility. Around the world, certain places stand out for the way they sweep couples off their feet, creating the kind of memories that linger long after the trip ends.

From iconic landmarks to remote natural wonders, these destinations have earned their reputation as the ultimate settings for love.

Explore the map below to discover the 20 most romantic locations in the world:

1. The Matterhorn, Switzerland

The most romantic place in the world, according to real reviews from real couples, is The Matterhorn in Switzerland, a mountain in the Alps which inspired the Toblerone logo. The mountain saw 98.66% of couples give it a 4-5 star rating, a near perfect score, with some branding it an “unforgettable experience” and others advising “be prepared to be awestruck”. The Matterhorn doesn't just command breathtaking views, the area offers scenic train rides, excellent skiing opportunities and glaciers.

2. Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia

On the other side of the world, Salar de Uyuni, literally “salt flat at Uyuni” is the second most romantic place with 98.55% of couples giving it a glowing review. The salt flats are based in the South American country of Bolivia and are known for being one of the most Instagrammable locations in the world. During the dry season, the flats expand miles in each direction, and in the rainy season the floor becomes a perfect mirror as far as the eye can see.

3. Sydney Harbour, Australia

Our first urban location on the list, Sydney Harbour in Australia ranks as the third-best place for couples to explore, with 98.48% giving it a positive review. Sydney Harbour is no doubt one of the most beautiful places in the country, with any part of the bay a great viewing spot for the Sydney Harbour Bridge or Sydney Opera House. Walk around Ms. Macquarie’s Park and grab a picnic for beautiful views during sunset.

4. Les 7 Cascades, Mauritius

Les 7 Cascades in Mauritius, an island off the coast of Southeast Africa translated to The Seven Waterfalls, is the fourth most romantic location in the world seeing 98.43% of couples giving it a four or five star rating. The location is made up of seven successive waterfalls, surrounded by lush greenery where tourists can hike and swim. Couples visiting said “The views were exquisite” and ”the raw natural untampered beauty was a site to behold”.

5. Great Wall of China, China

The fifth most romantic place in the world is the Great Wall of China, one of the new wonders of the world, with 98.11% of couples giving this location a high rating. The Great Wall isn't just one length, as it stretches 21,196 kilometres from the East to the middle of China. In reviews, couples mention how it has been their “dream” to walk the largest structure in the world and another saying it's “an unforgettable, even almost mystical experience”.

The Most Romantic Places in the World

While the top 20 most romantic locations in the world give us an insight into where couples should travel for a romantic getaway, many other iconic landmarks and destinations are still recognised as particularly romantic.

The Eiffel Tower in France with its twinkling lights is long regarded as one of the most romantic places to visit and came third place in our study of the world's top bucket list destinations. However, the data reveals that it’s actually the 68th most romantic landmark in the world with 90.91% of couples still ranking it highly. Some couples said the structure is “the most romantic place to propose to someone”, while another reviewer said it was “not as romantic as I imagined”.

Also in France, Disneyland Paris is at the bottom of the list with 72.74% of couples ranking the theme park four or five stars. While many couples enjoyed the visit, others branded the park as “a bit expensive”, “queues were too long” and “staff were almost constantly stressed, annoyed and rude”.

Use the table below to explore the most romantic locations in the world.

Most Romantic Location in Every U.S. State

The United States has extraordinary diversity, where couples can essentially visit fifty different micro countries without ever having to take their passport with them. Each state has its own landmarks that couples flock to, from impressive architectural structures, to urban parks and beaches, there's a romantic spot in every corner.

Explore the map below to find the most romantic place in every U.S. state:

California — Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco

In California, the most romantic landmark is the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco. Some say that couples find the bridge so romantic as it symbolises connection, where visitors can picnic at viewpoints like Crissy Field and take in the sunset from Battery Spencer or Baker Beach. The bridge used to be a hub for love locks, where couples would scratch their names into locks and attach them to the bridge to symbolise their love.

Arizona — The Grand Canyon

In Arizona lies one of the most romantic places in the whole world commanding a global ranking of 7th place, as well as being the most romantic place in the U.S. overall. The Grand Canyon stands as a tribute to love, where thousands of Americans every year visit to tie the knot. Reviews from couples say that they “can’t imagine a more romantic location” and that it's “amazing, truly breathtaking”.

New York — Central Park, New York City

In New York state, the most romantic location is Central Park in New York City. The 843-acre urban park in Manhattan is often described as romantic, where couples can enjoy ice skating in the winter and book row boats in the summer. One couple described it as “an unforgettable place all the seasons” and another said “every corner is a lucky charm”.

Florida — Hollywood Beach, Hollywood

In Florida, the most romantic landmark is Hollywood Beach, a neighborhood of Atlantic Ocean-facing beaches and “Old Florida” feel. The beach itself is iconic for the number of locals and visitors who skate, cycle, stroll, and ride foot pedal buggies along the palm-lined brick promenade. One couple described their visit as an “absolutely amazing experience” while another said it’s a “beautiful spot with soft sand, clear water and a lively boardwalk full of restaurants and shops”.

Pennsylvania — Fallingwater, Mill Run

Potentially one of the most famous architects of all time, Frank Lloyd Wright's Fallingwater building in Mill Run is crowned the most romantic place in Pennsylvania. Visitors can book a tour to explore the iconic house from the inside or simply admire its beauty when walking around the outside. Couples say “the house is magnificent” and “a truly extraordinary visit”.

The Most Romantic Locations in Africa

While Africa is mainly known for its safaris, there are many reasons why couples consistently rate experiences in the region so highly. Southeast Africa particularly stands out for its natural beauty where couples can truly relax and spend time together, a peaceful alternative to the hustle and bustle of the crowded markets found in Northern Africa.

Read on below to find out the top five most romantic locations in Africa, from towering mountain tops to cascading waterfalls.

1. Les 7 Cascades, Mauritius

Already named the fourth most romantic location in the world, Les 7 Cascades is also Africa's number one activity for couples, offering an immersive day out rather than a single viewpoint. Couples can follow natural pools, scramble over rocks, and cool off under cascading streams, turning the landscape into a shared adventure rather than just a backdrop.

2. Victoria Falls, Zambia/Zimbabwe

The second-most romantic location in Africa is Victoria Falls, bordering Zambia and Zimbabwe, and one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. The falls rank as the 9th most romantic location globally, with 97.52% of couples enjoying experiencing these majestic waterfalls. Couples can do all manner of activities from helicopter flights over the Falls to seasonal white-water rafting, gorge swinging, and even swimming in Devil’s Pool, right on the edge of the waterfall.

3. Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Africa, but also the largest free-standing mountain in the world, rising 6 kilometres straight towards the sky. Couples find Mount Kilimanjaro particularly romantic, ranking the third-most enjoyed location in Africa by couples and 11th globally, with 97.49% of couples rating the trip highly. One of the biggest draws of the mountain is the climb, a 5,895 metre ascent taking 5-9 days to complete, a true test for couples.

4. Tarangire National Park, Tanzania

In fourth place is Tarangire National Park in Tanzania, where 97.46% of couples have rated the place four to five stars. The reserve is lesser known than its popular counterparts, Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, but the right time of year can deliver some of Tanzania's best game viewing. Reviews say that safaris at the park are “the perfect combination of breathtaking wildlife encounters and rich cultural experiences”.

5. Table Mountain, South Africa

Rounding out the fifth most romantic location in Africa and 16th most romantic place globally is Table Mountain in Cape Town, South Africa. The mountain is one of the most recognisable in the world, where 97.29% of couples love to visit. Partners can hike one of the mountain's many trails, catch the cable car up to the top or experience one of the more exhilarating experiences such as paragliding and abseiling.

The Most Romantic Locations in Europe

Europe has a way of making every moment feel timeless, where history, culture, and breathtaking scenery come together to create unforgettable experiences. From cobblestone streets and grand palaces to hidden gardens and charming seaside villages, the continent is full of destinations that inspire romance.

Below, explore the ten most romantic corners of Europe, each offering its own unique storybook charm:

1. The Matterhorn, Switzerland

Topping the list in Europe is The Matterhorn in Switzerland which also took the top spot as the most romantic location in the world. Beyond its iconic triangular peak, the Matterhorn region is steeped in alpine culture and adventure. Couples are drawn not only to the jaw-dropping vistas but also to the experiences surrounding it: cozy mountain chalets, scenic cogwheel train rides, glacier hikes, and quaint villages like Zermatt that feel suspended in time.

1. Arthur's Seat, Scotland

Second on Europe's top romantic locations is Arthur's Seat, Scotland overlooking the historic city of Edinburgh. Almost all (97.6%) of couples find the extinct volcano romantic as it's popular for people to hike up, have a picnic or watch the sunset. Visitors say the views “never disappoint” while others say the “summit offers tremendous 360 views including Old Town and across to Leith and the sea.”

3. Historic Centre of Brugge, Belgium

The Historic Centre of Brugge is regarded as one of the best preserved medieval cities in the world and this is why it leads as the third more romantic spot in Europe. The cobblestone streets, canals, guild houses, and Gothic architecture mean 96.96% of couples rate the town highly. Often called the “Venice of the North,” Bruges is a fairytale town brought to life.

4. Grand Canal, Italy

Venice has long been one of the most romantic getaways for couples, with the Grand Canal as the centerpiece of its popularity. Over 95.98% of couples rate their trip to this iconic location as four or five stars making it one of the best spots for couples in the world. One of the more popular activities is hire a gondola where guests pass through arched bridges, ornate palazzi, and centuries-old stone façades.

5. Plaza de España, Spain

Rounding out the top five most romantic landmarks in Europe is Plaza de España in Seville, Spain with 95.9% of couples rating the location highly. The square was designed by architect Aníbal González and combines Renaissance Revival and Moorish Revival (Neo-Mudéjar) styles. Visitors may also recognise it for its cameos in popular films such as Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones and Lawrence of Arabia.

The Most Romantic Locations in South America

South America has a way of making everything feel bigger, the landscapes, the emotions, the memories you make together. It's a continent shaped by dramatic mountains, secret beaches, and cities that hum with passion, making it a natural setting for romance. Whether you're wandering through cloud forests or sharing a glass of Malbec in a quiet vineyard, it invites couples to slow down and really be present with each other.

Below, we've selected five of the most romantic corners of South America, places designed by nature for falling in love.

1. Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia

At the top of the list for South America is Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia's vast salt desert, which also ranks as the second most romantic destination in the entire world, so it's hardly a surprise it takes first place in South America. Otherworldly, quietly spectacular and unlike anywhere else on earth, it's a landscape that makes couples feel like they've stepped outside of reality and into their own private universe giving it an almost perfect rating of 98.55%.

2. Iguazu Falls, Brazil

The second most romantic landmark in South America is Iguazu Falls on the border of Brazil and Argentina. Potentially one of the most stunning natural landscapes in the world, the waterfalls are the world’s largest waterfall system and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's no surprise then that 98.11% of couples who visited loved their stay, with hikes, boat rides and helicopter rides to enjoy.

3. Machu Picchu, Peru

In third place is the historic site of Machu Picchu, high in the Andes Mountains of southern Peru. 96.9% of couples enjoyed visiting the ancient city. One of the more popular activities to do is to hike to the landmark itself on one of three popular trails; the classic Inca Trail, challenging Salkantay Trek, or the cultural Lares Trek.

4. Perito Moreno Glacier, Argentina

As one of the most impressive glaciers in the world, Perito Moreno Glacier in Argentina commands thousands of visitors every year to see its huge expanse of ice advance. The natural spectacle has impressed 96.66% of couples who visit, making it one of the more romantic destinations in South America. Those who visit can go trekking on the ice, take boat tours to experience ice calving (where chunks of ice break off) or kayak.

5. Sugarloaf Mountain, Brazil

The first (but not the last) landmark to appear on our list from Rio de Janeiro is the towering Sugarloaf Mountain which sees 96.05% of couples enjoy its sweeping views of the harbour. Visitors can either hike up half way or take a cable car to the top of the mountain where they'll be met with some of the best views in the world. Look north and see the whole of Rio stretch out in front of you or turn to the West to spot Christ the Redeemer and the green mountains of Tijuca National Park.

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Methodology

To determine the world's most romantic landmarks, Go2Africa conducted an analysis of review data, focusing exclusively on travellers who visited as couples. For each location, we collected the total number of couple reviews and identified the subset of reviews rated 4 or 5 stars, corresponding to experiences that couples rated as “Very Good” or “Excellent.” To ensure statistical reliability, only destinations with a minimum of 100 couple reviews were included in the analysis.

We then calculated a Romance Rating for each landmark, defined as the proportion of high-rated reviews among couples. Locations were ranked according to this Romance Rating, with ties resolved based on the total number of couple reviews.

This allowed us to determine the most romantic landmarks in the world, as well as the most romantic locations in each U.S. state.

Data collection in December 2025.