The 10 Best Honeymoon Destinations in 2026
Discover the 10 best honeymoon destinations for 2026 with budgets, best time to visit, and pros and cons for each destination. Complete guide to planning the perfect honeymoon trip.
The wedding is over, you've said "I do," you've danced, laughed, shed happy tears, and toasted with all your loved ones. Now comes the part you've been dreaming about for months: the honeymoon. That special trip where you disconnect from the world and begin your life together with an unforgettable adventure.
We know that choosing a destination can be tricky. There are so many options that it's sometimes hard to decide. That's why we've put together this guide with the 10 best honeymoon destinations for 2026, complete with estimated budgets, the best time to travel, and the pros and cons of each. Because we want this trip to be as perfect as your wedding.
1. Maldives: Paradise on the Water
If there's one destination that screams "honeymoon," it's the Maldives. Imagine waking up in an overwater villa with crystal-clear waters, the sound of waves as your alarm clock, and a floating breakfast waiting for you in your private pool. Pure luxury, pure intimacy, pure magic.
Best time to visit: November to April (dry season).
Estimated budget (2 people, 10 days): $10,000-18,000
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Pros | Dream beaches, total privacy, spectacular snorkeling and diving, luxury resorts |
| Cons | High budget, long flight from Europe/Americas (with stopover), limited activities outside the resort |
| Best for | Couples seeking luxury, total relaxation, and paradise beaches |
Tip: Book at least 9 months in advance for better rates. All-inclusive resorts can be more economical than paying for each meal separately.
2. Italy: Romance with History and Cuisine
Italy is the quintessential romantic destination in Europe. From the gondolas of Venice to the sunsets on the Amalfi Coast, through the rolling hills of Tuscany, every corner of Italy seems designed for falling in love. And the food... don't even get us started on the food.
Best time to visit: April to June and September to October (avoid the heat and crowds of July-August).
Estimated budget (2 people, 10 days): $4,000-8,000
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Pros | Close to other European countries, exceptional cuisine, culture and history, variety of experiences |
| Cons | Very touristy in summer, major cities are expensive, driving can be stressful |
| Best for | Couples who love culture, great food, and combining beach with city experiences |
Recommended route: Rome (3 nights) - Tuscany (3 nights) - Amalfi Coast (4 nights).
3. Bali, Indonesia: Exoticism and Spirituality at a Great Price
Bali is that destination that has it all: mystical temples, endless rice terraces, volcanic beaches, surprising cuisine, and a spiritual atmosphere that envelops you. It's exotic, it's beautiful, and surprise -- it's more affordable than you think.
Best time to visit: April to October (dry season).
Estimated budget (2 people, 14 days): $5,000-8,000
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Pros | Spectacular value for money, incredible landscapes, affordable luxury spas, fascinating culture |
| Cons | Long flight (14-18h with stopover), traffic in tourist areas, rainy season from November to March |
| Best for | Adventurous couples seeking exoticism, relaxation, and great value |
Tip: Combine different areas. Ubud for culture and rice terraces, Seminyak for beaches and nightlife, and the Nusa Islands for total tranquility.
4. Greece: Postcard-Perfect Islands Without Breaking the Bank
Greece offers that perfect combination of turquoise beaches, white villages with blue domes, ancient history, and Mediterranean cuisine. And the best part: it's one of the most romantic destinations in Europe without being excessively expensive.
Best time to visit: May to October (June and September are ideal months).
Estimated budget (2 people, 10 days): $3,000-6,000
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Pros | Close to Europe, incredible beaches, affordable compared to other destinations, history and culture |
| Cons | Very crowded in July-August, ferries can be delayed, small islands have limited options |
| Best for | Mid-budget couples who want beach, culture, and great food |
Recommended islands: Santorini (the most romantic), Crete (the most complete), Milos (the most peaceful), Naxos (the most authentic).
5. Japan: A Different and Unforgettable Honeymoon
If you're looking for something completely different, Japan is your destination. It's a trip that will change your perspective: ancient temples alongside futuristic skyscrapers, cuisine that is art, zen gardens that invite meditation, and a culture that will leave you speechless.
Best time to visit: March-April (cherry blossoms) or October-November (autumn colors).
Estimated budget (2 people, 12 days): $7,000-12,000
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Pros | Unique cultural experience, exceptional cuisine, safety, impeccable transport, varied landscapes |
| Cons | High budget, language barrier, long flight, fewer beaches than other destinations |
| Best for | Curious, well-traveled couples who prioritize cultural experience over beach time |
Recommended route: Tokyo (4 nights) - Hakone (1 night, onsen) - Kyoto (4 nights) - Osaka (2 nights).
6. Thailand: Tropical Adventure on a Friendly Budget
Thailand is the perfect destination if you want to combine paradise beaches, golden temples, incredible food, and adventures, all without destroying your bank account. The famous "Land of Smiles" will welcome you with open arms. If you still haven't organized your guest list, it might be a good idea to get that sorted before focusing on the trip.
Best time to visit: November to March (dry season).
Estimated budget (2 people, 14 days): $3,500-7,000
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Pros | Very affordable, spectacular beaches, incredible cuisine, very friendly people, easy to travel around |
| Cons | Long flight, mass tourism in some areas, rainy season (May-October), constant bargaining |
| Best for | Adventurous couples on a budget who want beach + culture |
Tip: Avoid the most touristy islands (Phuket, Koh Phi Phi during peak season) and discover gems like Koh Lipe, Koh Lanta, or Koh Yao Noi.
7. Portugal: The Hidden Gem Just Next Door
Sometimes paradise is closer than we think. Portugal offers an irresistible combination of wild Algarve beaches, Lisbon's bohemian charm, Douro Valley wines, and the warmth of its people. It's nearby, affordable, and deeply romantic.
Best time to visit: May to September.
Estimated budget (2 people, 10 days): $2,500-5,000
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Pros | Very close to Spain/Europe, affordable, incredible beaches, excellent cuisine, easy communication |
| Cons | May feel "not exotic enough" as a honeymoon, Algarve very touristy in summer, winding roads |
| Best for | Couples who prioritize tranquility, gastronomy, and don't want a long journey |
Recommended route: Lisbon (3 nights) - Sintra (1 night) - Algarve (4 nights) - Douro (2 nights).
8. Costa Rica: Pure Nature for Adventurous Couples
If your idea of a honeymoon includes volcanoes, tropical rainforests, pristine beaches, and exotic wildlife, Costa Rica is your destination. It's a small country but incredibly biodiverse, where nature is the true star.
Best time to visit: December to April (dry season).
Estimated budget (2 people, 12 days): $5,000-8,000
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Pros | Spectacular nature, unique biodiversity, beaches on two coasts, "pura vida" people |
| Cons | Long flight, roads in poor condition, can be expensive for Central America, intense rainy season |
| Best for | Nature-loving couples seeking active, outdoor experiences |
Tip: Rent a 4x4 vehicle. It's the best way to explore the country at your own pace. Distances are short but roads can be challenging.
9. Zanzibar, Tanzania: The Best-Kept Secret
Zanzibar is that destination few people know about but everyone who visits falls in love with. White sand beaches that seem unreal, turquoise waters, spices in the air, a fascinating Swahili culture, and sunsets that take your breath away.
Best time to visit: June to October or December to February.
Estimated budget (2 people, 10 days): $4,000-8,000
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Pros | Dream beaches, less crowded than Maldives, reasonable prices, unique culture, combinable with safari |
| Cons | Long flight with stopover, limited infrastructure outside resorts, very pronounced tides |
| Best for | Couples seeking paradise beaches with a cultural and unique twist |
Bonus: If your budget allows, combine 5 days on safari in the Serengeti + 5 days of beach in Zanzibar. It's a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
10. French Polynesia: The Dream Come True
If you want a destination that represents the pinnacle of romance and exclusivity, French Polynesia (Bora Bora, Moorea, Tahiti) is the answer. Impossibly blue waters, overwater bungalows, verdant volcanic peaks, and a tranquility that only exists at the edge of the world.
Best time to visit: May to October (dry season).
Estimated budget (2 people, 10 days): $12,000-25,000
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Pros | The most romantic destination in the world, total exclusivity, surreal landscapes, incredible snorkeling |
| Cons | Very expensive, extremely long flight from Europe/East Coast (20-24h), limited activities, mosquitoes |
| Best for | Couples who want the most special honeymoon regardless of budget |
Tip: If Bora Bora is out of budget, Moorea offers equally spectacular landscapes at slightly more accessible prices.
Destination Comparison: Quick Summary
| Destination | Budget (2 people) | Best Time | Flight Time | Trip Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maldives | $10,000-18,000 | Nov-Apr | 12-14h | Beach & luxury |
| Italy | $4,000-8,000 | Apr-Jun, Sep-Oct | 2-3h | Culture & cuisine |
| Bali | $5,000-8,000 | Apr-Oct | 14-18h | Exoticism & adventure |
| Greece | $3,000-6,000 | May-Oct | 3-4h | Beach & culture |
| Japan | $7,000-12,000 | Mar-Apr, Oct-Nov | 12-14h | Culture & cuisine |
| Thailand | $3,500-7,000 | Nov-Mar | 11-14h | Adventure & beach |
| Portugal | $2,500-5,000 | May-Sep | 1h | Beach & relaxation |
| Costa Rica | $5,000-8,000 | Dec-Apr | 11-13h | Nature & adventure |
| Zanzibar | $4,000-8,000 | Jun-Oct, Dec-Feb | 10-14h | Beach & culture |
| Polynesia | $12,000-25,000 | May-Oct | 20-24h | Luxury & exclusivity |
Practical Tips for Planning Your Honeymoon
Now that you have the destinations, let's cover the practical tips to make planning as enjoyable as the trip itself.
When to Start Planning
Start discussing destinations as soon as you have the wedding date confirmed. Book flights and accommodation 6 to 9 months in advance for the best prices. If your destination requires a visa, begin the process at least 3 months ahead.
How to Finance the Trip
- Honeymoon registry: More and more couples are replacing the traditional gift registry with a honeymoon experience list. Your guests can gift you hotel nights, excursions, or romantic dinners.
- Monthly savings: Open a joint account and contribute a fixed amount each month from the moment of the engagement.
- Deals and miles: Accumulate miles with your credit card and keep an eye out for last-minute offers.
Essential Documentation
- Valid passport (with at least 6 months remaining validity).
- Required visas depending on destination.
- Travel insurance (essential -- don't skimp here).
- Vaccination certificate if required.
- Cloud copies of all documents.
When to Travel After the Wedding
You don't have to leave the next day. Many couples wait a few days or even weeks to rest after the wedding and enjoy the trip with more energy. If your ideal destination has a peak season that doesn't coincide with the wedding date, it's perfectly fine to postpone the honeymoon: the trip will be just as special. In the meantime, get organized: if you haven't yet chosen your celebration venue, now is the time to prioritize.
Conclusion
Your honeymoon is the crowning moment of a wonderful chapter and the beginning of a new adventure together. There's no universally "perfect" destination: the best destination is the one that excites both of you, fits your budget, and allows you to disconnect and enjoy each other.
Whether you're lounging in a hammock in the Maldives, exploring temples in Japan, or cruising the Amalfi Coast on a scooter, what matters is that it's your trip, tailored to you. Research, dream together, and let the adventure begin.
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