View of Venice at sunset, showing the Salute Church and a canal leading out to sea

True love’s trips: Five of the best destinations for a romantic getaway

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Newmarket Holidays

Share moments of magic with that special someone, or treat yourself to a little solo TLC, this Valentine’s Day with an intimate escape to one of these romance hotspots.

Love is in the air – and not just back home in the UK. From the sites that inspired the world’s most celebrated love stories to landscapes which are sure to get your heart racing, there’s no shortage of enchanting ‘holidate’ destinations to enjoy with your significant other. It’s not just the couples who get all the fun this Valentine’s Day either, with delightful solo escapes which are perfect for meeting fellow singles or simply showing yourself the love you deserve.

As the world celebrates Valentine’s Day, we’ve only got eyes for our favourite romantic destinations across Europe and beyond. With that in mind, our team have been hand-picking the spots which are perfect for a romantic getaway and have put together a list of their top picks. Whether you’re looking to mark to a special occasion in style, or share the love later in the year, here are five world-wide destinations you won’t want to miss.

Venice, Italy

Where else could we start than elegant Venice? Home to gondola-lined canals, which are perfect for an intimate evening’s ride around the city, and truly spectacular Gothic architecture, Venice keeps couples coming back for more every year. Whether you’re taking in the sights with your other half by day or sharing one of the city’s signature Aperol cocktails at sunset, this coastal gem promises romance in abundance and deserves a spot at the top of any Valentine’s wish-list. Better still, a short drive west will bring you to charming Verona, another Italian romance city, which is home to the iconic Juliet’s Balcony of Shakespearean fame!

Agra, India
 
While it may not spring to mind quite like some of the other spots on this list, few destinations embody romance quite like landmark-rich Agra. Famed for the iconic Taj Mahal, which was built as an ode to the love between the Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan, and his wife, this landmark-rich city oozes passion and charm. With memorable sightseeing opportunities to enjoy with your loved one, including a collection of serene Mughal-era gardens, culture lovers will be head-over-heels with a retreat to this delightful corner of India.

Marrakesh, Morocco

Marrakesh, with its impressive Islamic architecture, French colonial heritage and delightful tea rooms, has long been a holiday favourite for solo travellers and larger groups alike. Where the city really shines, though, is in its sprawling bazaars, with their handicraft stalls, traditional Moroccan food stalls and vibrant spice markets. Whether you’re feasting your senses on the sights and smells of these colourful hubs, finding the perfect gift amongst the artisans’ stalls, or embracing the thrill of discovery with your loved one, Marrakesh offers romance and intrigue in abundance.


Montreal, Canada

Rather than visiting Paris, the go-to for French romance, why not breathe new life into your travel plans with a Canadian getaway to cosmopolitan Montreal. By day, the city’s diverse collection of galleries, museums and Gothic landmarks promise a great couples’ sightseeing trip and as the sun sets over the St. Lawrence River, its chic waterfront restaurants and trendy wine bars set the tone for an intimate evening under the lights. Food is the way to one’s heart, as the saying goes, and Montreal’s acclaimed dining options will certainly have you covered in that regard!

Bali, Indonesia

Combining time-honoured spirituality and pristine coastal landscapes, Bali is one of the world’s most sought-after spots for singles and couples alike. With idyllic white-sand beaches, perfect for a romantic stroll under the setting sun, and exquisite coastal towns which are famous for their easy-going and welcoming atmospheres, there’s something to suit all tastes on this Indonesian island. If you’re looking to whisk your significant other away for a beachfront retreat, but want to avoid the crowds, look no further than glorious Bali.


Rediscover your love for travel with Newmarket Holidays

If our top picks have stirred your passions, or if you’d like to chat about your next wish-list escape, give one of our friendly holiday planners a call. You can now also take advantage of our brand-new Easy Payment Plan, both online and in-call – learn more on our dedicated FAQs page! For information on our full escorted touring collection, and itineraries taking in the destinations featured above, visit our website.

Our recommended tours

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Taj Mahal, Agra
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India - Tigers and the Taj Mahal
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Volubilis Morocco
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Niagara Falls
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Mount Bromo Volcano, East Java
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Indonesia - Bali & Beyond
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