GoTravelDaily readers understand the essentials for properties to enchant couples and create the ideal romantic getaway. Fundamental aspects include personalized service, luxurious accommodations, and perhaps most importantly, privacy. However, the exceptional properties voted as the Top 50 romantic hotels by GoTravelDaily readers transcend these basics with thoughtful extras and diverse amenities that appeal to couples’ shared interests. Whether couples prefer sun-kissed walks on pristine beaches, rejuvenating spa treatments in lush jungles, or thrilling adventure sports, there’s something for everyone. Every year for the World’s Best Awards survey, GoTravelDaily invites readers to share their insights on global travel experiences, including their top choices for hotels, resorts, locations, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Hotels were evaluated based on their facilities, service, food quality, location, and overall value, with romance considered as an optional category. Readers expressed a preference for warm island destinations (St. Lucia, Bali, Hawaii), coastal California (Big Sur, Laguna Beach), and glamorous European locales (Paris, Florence, St. Moritz). While our next class of World’s Best winners will be announced this summer, the 2024 survey remains open for input until March 4.
Ladera Resort – Soufriére, St. Lucia
This island retreat is noted for its open-walled accommodations, enhancing the ability to appreciate breathtaking panoramic views of the Caribbean, while ensuring privacy thanks to Ladera’s mountainside placement.
Cap Maison – Gros Islet, St. Lucia
This all-inclusive, 49-room hacienda-style resort offers diverse experiences catering to all couple preferences, from indulgent spa retreats to lively local celebrations.
Belmond Castello di Casole – Casole d’Elsa, Italy
Spanning 4,200 acres of stunning Tuscan landscapes, this estate centers around a 10th-century castle that has been beautifully restored, featuring charming antique details and Etruscan artifacts directly sourced from the property. Unique activities for outdoor enthusiasts include truffle hunting right on the premises.
Amandari – Ubud, Bali, Indonesia
While located near Ubud’s bustling center, the luxurious Amandari offers an escape into tranquility, perched on hills overlooking the Ayung River gorge. Its suites resemble traditional village homes, providing complete seclusion for couples seeking peace while enjoying authentic Balinese culture.
Badrutt’s Palace Hotel – St. Moritz, Switzerland
Esteemed as a premier gathering spot for elite patrons since 1896, this hotel offers glamorous experiences, including an iconic afternoon tea and renowned spa treatments. Its impressive pool, framed by floor-to-ceiling windows, presents breathtaking mountain views.
Surf & Sand Resort – Laguna Beach, California
The Mediterranean-style Surf & Sand Resort reflects the laid-back elegance characteristic of Laguna Beach. Its oceanfront pool and proximity to Bluebird Beach make it a favorite for couples eager for easy access to water activities.
Calistoga Ranch, an Auberge Resort – Calistoga, California
This peaceful retreat in nature, featuring 50 luxury cottages scattered on 157 acres of pristine landscapes dotted with oak trees and streams, offers rejuvenation tailored to each couple’s definition, whether it’s zip-lining, cycling through vineyards, or practicing outdoor yoga.
The Setai – Miami Beach, Florida
This towering 40-story hotel above South Beach presents a contrasting style to the local flashy Art Deco, embracing a serene Asian-inspired aesthetic. While the vibrant nightlife is within reach, couples can also retreat to the hotel’s calming zen-like spa.
The Ritz, Paris – Paris, France
This iconic hotel, established in 1898, exudes Parisian elegance, not merely because Coco Chanel used to reside there, but also through its splendid Belle Époque décor in the rooms and shared spaces, alongside the legendary Hemingway Bar, captivating couples seeking an extraordinary experience.
Shangri-La Hotel, Paris – Paris, France
The property’s beauty is steeped in history; it was once home to Napoleon Bonaparte’s grandnephew. Now meticulously restored, the Shangri-La Hotel, Paris features 81 opulently decorated rooms and suites, many offering breathtaking views of the Eiffel Tower and private balconies.
Katikies Hotel – Santorini, Greece
Set between the azure Aegean Sea and the striking white architecture of 27 luxurious rooms and suites, the five-star Katikies Hotel captures the irresistible atmosphere that draws couples to stunning Oia.
Koa Kea Hotel & Resort – Kaua’i, Hawaii
This vibrant, intimate 121-room resort stands out among larger hotels, placing couples closer to exquisite beaches and surfing opportunities.
La Residence – Franschhoek, South Africa
This elegant 11-suite boutique hotel, nestled in the Western Cape winelands, is ideally located for exploring world-class restaurants and vineyards, making it a perfect retreat for food-loving couples.
The Oberoi, New Delhi – New Delhi, India
This historic property captivates couples with its sophisticated decor, traditional white-gloved service, and convenient access to the vibrant culture of Delhi.
Zoëtry Paraiso de la Bonita – Puerto Morelos, Mexico
Couples focused on wellness can find a holistic experience at Zoëtry Paraiso de la Bonita, with unique treatments at their award-winning spa. The offerings include thalassotherapy and a local temazcal ceremony, believed to offer detoxifying and regenerative benefits.
Huka Lodge – Taupo, New Zealand
This lodge, set within 17 acres of impeccably maintained gardens, boasts a breathtaking view of the Waikato River, providing couples with relaxation and a plethora of activities, from horseback riding to white-water rafting.
Southern Ocean Lodge – Kangaroo Island, South Australia, Australia
This upscale eco-retreat offers couples an escape from the bustle of everyday life amidst the rugged beauty of Australia’s landscape. Guests can observe various wildlife, including koalas, through self-guided walks or private tours to Seal Bay.
Post Ranch Inn – Big Sur, California
Perched on cliffs soaring 1,200 feet above the Pacific Ocean, Post Ranch Inn is renowned for its exceptional vistas. Each of its 39 rooms offers tranquil solitude, with treehouses providing the ultimate romantic experience in a serene forest setting.
One&Only Palmilla – Los Cabos, Mexico
With luxurious deep soaking tubs, outdoor daybeds, and stunning views of the Sea of Cortez, this resort entices couples eager to disconnect and reconnect with one another.
Farmhouse Inn – Forestville, California
This quaint establishment of small yellow buildings, surrounded by gardens, offers an experience resembling a mini-town. Couples can explore the local Russian River Valley and its independent wineries, with exclusive tours arranged by concierge, while enjoying the on-site world-class spa and Michelin-starred restaurant.
Jade Mountain – Soufriére, St. Lucia
This beautiful island boasts numerous enchanting resorts, yet Jade Mountain impresses with its expansive suites, featuring breathtaking views and private infinity pools.
The Mulia Bali – Bali, Indonesia
Couples may hesitate to leave the comfort of their stylish suites at The Mulia, given the inviting gardens and gorgeous beachfront views, were it not for the spotlight on its spa and elaborate pools.
Timber Cove Resort – Jenner, California
The reinvented Timber Cove, which underwent a major renovation in 2016, melds Sonoma wine country charm with California’s rugged coastline. While culinary delights are abundant here, couples can partake in casual hikes, kayaking adventures, and remarkable stargazing opportunities.
The Lowell – New York, New York
Positioned mere blocks from Central Park, The Lowell serves as a romantic retreat for travelers keen to explore New York’s upscale Upper East Side. Each of its 70 unique rooms is thoughtfully designed, showcasing elegant features like wood-burning fireplaces and sumptuous silk drapery.
Villa Cora – Florence, Italy
Surrounded by exquisite gardens and adorned with magnificent frescoes and grand chandeliers, the luxurious Villa Cora provides an immersive experience in old-world Italian grandeur. Couples visiting during the spring or summer months should consider enjoying cocktails by the expansive pool.
Nizuc Resort & Spa – Cancún, Mexico
Culinary enthusiasts will appreciate Nizuc Resort & Spa’s diverse dining options, with seven restaurants available, while those seeking relaxation can indulge in a variety of signature treatments rooted in ancient Mayan practices.
Hotel Du Cap-Eden-Roc – Cap d’Antibes, France
As a favored haunt for celebrities along the Cote d’Azur, the 147-year-old Hotel Du Cap-Eden-Roc, anchored by a grand 19th-century mansion, provides intimacy and tranquility on the French Riviera.
Ventana Big Sur, An Alila Resort – Big Sur, California
Nestled on over 200 acres of wooded hillside just off the renowned Highway 1, the adults-only Ventana Big Sur immerses couples in nature. It offers a selection of accommodations, from elegant guest rooms featuring wood-burning fireplaces to bespoke glamping sites.
Six Senses Yao Noi – Yao Noi, Thailand
The wellness-dedicated Six Senses Yao Noi, positioned about 45 minutes from Phuket, enables couples to delve into the rich jungle green or soak up the sun on pristine beaches.
La Réserve Paris Hotel, Spa & Apartments – Paris, France
Elegance flourishes at this stately hotel, with each one of the 26 suites and 14 rooms showcasing luxurious details like silk wall coverings, plush velvet drapes, and marble bathrooms. With its prime location just off the Champs-Élysées, La Réserve allows easy exploration of the city’s historical landmarks.
Palazzo Avino – Ravello, Italy
Adorned with antiques and furnishings from the 17th to 19th centuries, the lavish Palazzo Avino treats its guests like royalty. Couples celebrating their honeymoon or romantic getaway should not miss the chance to witness the sunset from the rooftop solarium and enjoy a meal at the chef’s table in the restaurant.
Hotel Caesar Augustus – Capri, Italy
The ornate Hotel Caesar Augustus showcases its storied past as a private residence and cultural hub for intellectual elites, enhancing the sophisticated aura of its 55 rooms and suites.
Lodge at Edgewood Tahoe – Lake Tahoe, California
Whether cozying up around an outdoor fire pit or enjoying the nightly s’mores hour, the whimsical atmosphere certainly permeates every corner of the picturesque 154-room Edgewood Tahoe.
Canaves Oia, Santorini – Santorini, Greece
The stunning Oia, renowned for its romantic appeal, is further enhanced by Canaves, set within a historic 17th-century cave complex, with private plunge pools and exceptional experiences like helicopter tours.
The Resort at Pedregal – Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
This luxurious resort boasts a unique tunnel entrance carved into the mountains and an oceanfront spa, providing an exclusive retreat.
Las Ventanas al Paraíso, A Rosewood Resort – San José del Cabo, Mexico
With a dedicated romance director capable of curating unforgettable experiences (like crafting love letters for guests to present to their partners) and a personal butler appointed for each suite, staff at Las Ventanas al Paraíso ensure couples can fully immerse in their time together.
Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora – Bora Bora, French Polynesia
This enchanting resort features stunning natural beauty combined with secluded overwater bungalows, setting a romantic backdrop that remains a favorite for honeymooners.
Tensing Pen – Negril, Jamaica
This rustic escape on one of the Caribbean’s most beloved islands provides couples with a variety of accommodation options—including thatch-roofed rooms and villas—alongside spa treatments and facial offerings.
Il San Pietro di Positano – Positano, Italy
In a region renowned for romance, the glamorous Il San Pietro di Positano stands out with its perfect, slightly secluded location, lavishly adorned rooms, and superior cliffside terrace perfect for enjoying sunset views over the Mediterranean.
Viceroy Riviera Maya – Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Being situated in the tranquil Playa Xcalacoco village lends the Viceroy Riviera Maya an intimate atmosphere, reinforced by the all-villa accommodations that invite couples to explore the jungle and local beaches, or simply enjoy a range of wellness services like yoga and spa treatments.
The Wickaninnish Inn – Tofino, British Columbia, Canada
Set against a backdrop of towering pines, this Vancouver Island property combines rustic mountain lodge elements with the sophistication of a destination spa. Many of its 75 rooms and suites, equipped with gas fireplaces, offer stunning ocean views.
Frangipani Beach Resort – Meads Bay, Anguilla
With its stunning white-sand beaches and crystal-clear azure waters, Frangipani appeals to both adventurous couples seeking watersports and those in search of ultimate relaxation.
Sheen Falls Lodge – Co. Kerry, Ireland
Sheen Falls Lodge embodies the charm of a traditional Irish manor, placing couples in close proximity to unspoiled countryside, stunning coastlines, and quaint towns worth exploring. On-site, guests will find an exceptional restaurant, alongside activities like horseback riding and falconry.
Six Senses Douro Valley – Lamego, Portugal
Set within a restored 19th-century manor house located in the celebrated wine-producing area, Six Senses Douro Valley welcomes couples who wish to indulge in local gastronomy, with an organic garden on-site and personalized spa treatments that utilize local ingredients.
