10 Most Romantic Winter Getaways Around the World, According to Travel Experts

Finnish Lapland

“I think Finnish Lapland is a perfect destination for anyone looking for a bit of winter romance. There is really nothing more intimate than staying in a glass igloo together, enjoying complete Arctic seclusion,” says James Turner, founder of 360 Private Travel. “You can spend your time with winter activities, or just enjoy quiet time, walking hand-in-hand through snowy forests. And when the skies are clear, you’re likely to see the northern lights dancing overhead, which is a sight that you’ll never forget experiencing together.” The aforementioned glass igloo can be found at Octola, a property he describes as a “sustainable, private retreat with a personal chef and outdoor hot tub.”

Queenstown and the Central Otago Wine Region, New Zealand

If you’re looking for a winter trip that combines both adventure and romance, Jillian Gibas, owner of JLJ Travel, suggests spending some time in Queenstown before exploring the Central Otago Wine Region. When it’s winter in the U.S., it’s summer in New Zealand—and she recommends visiting in February, “as locals have gone back to work and school, and prices have softened from their December and January peak.”

“Queenstown Airport makes for an easy arrival point, and the city is worth a few nights to settle in and experience New Zealand before slowing things down. Couples have immediate access to alpine scenery and lake views, with plenty of ways to scratch the ‘adventure itch,’ from scenic hikes and lakeside biking to one-of-a-kind thrill experiences,” she says. For a relaxing couple’s retreat, check into Stoneridge Estate or Gibbston Valley Lodge & Spa. “I also recommend making time for lunch at Amisfield, widely considered one of New Zealand’s most memorable food-and-wine experiences,” she adds.

Hudson Valley, New York

New Yorkers don’t have to hop on a flight to find the perfect winter getaway. “If you’re looking for a romantic escape with all the magic of a snowy winter wonderland, head to Wildflower Farms, Auberge Collection in the Hudson Valley, just 90 minutes north of New York City. It’s the perfect place to plan a romantic, phone-free weekend with your loved one,” says Joanie Wang, founder of The Travel Club. “Stay in one of their cozy cabins that seamlessly blend in with the surrounding nature and get away from the busyness of your daily hustle. Indulge in daily movement classes, get in touch with your creative side through hands-on craft classes like ceramics and watercolor, and wander through the property’s tranquil forest trails.”

Seychelles

If your ideal winter couple’s vacation involves white sand and turquoise water, book a flight to the Seychelles. “The Seychelles offer a more understated, less predictable take on island romance compared to other barefoot luxury destinations. Time here is spent lounging with a book in a hammock, snorkeling in pristine waters, and enjoying a massage under the stars,” says Gibas, who recommends booking a villa or suite at the Four Seasons Resort Seychelles. Or, she says, there are other, more remote options, adding, “Six Senses Zil Pasyon on the private island of Felicite is particularly romantic with its villas with private plunge pools, or for an even more off-the-map experience, book a beach bungalow on one of the Outer Islands.”

Anguilla

“For a winter escape that is full of barefoot luxury and sun-drenched romance, the Caribbean island of Anguilla is the ideal romantic getaway. Often overshadowed by its flashier neighbor, St. Barts, Anguilla offers understated luxury, arguably the best beaches in the Caribbean, and impressive dining options,” says Alexis Doerfler, owner and lead travel advisor at The Destination Designer. The small island has an impressive number of memorable hotels, but her favorite is also a World’s Best Awards winner.  “Cap Juluca, A Belmond Hotel, is the epitome of romance. Their suites and villas face a powder-soft stretch of sand, each assigned with beach chairs, umbrellas, and very attentive service,” she says. “Spend your day swimming in the turquoise waters, take a private boat charter for cay hopping, or indulge in a couple’s massage as you listen to the waves roll in.”

Scottish Highlands

For some couples, the ultimate romantic retreat involves roaring fireplaces, whisky cocktails, and long walks in the great outdoors. You’ll find all three of those things in the Scottish Highlands, particularly in small villages inside Cairngorms National Park. Make your base camp in Braemar, home to the inimitable Fife Arms hotel, and spend the short days—the sun goes down between 3 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. in the winter—hiking, touring historic sites, and trying all manner of Scottish delicacies.

Vienna, Austria

According to Gibas, Vienna’s “snow-dusted streets, candlelit cafes, and old-world elegance” are the right ingredients for a cozy, romantic trip. “In January and February, crowds disperse, giving the city a quieter, more intimate feel,” she says. “Vienna’s strong cafe culture is perfect for lingering, and dinners in historic dining rooms or tucked-away wine taverns feel especially atmospheric in winter.”

As far as accommodations, she recommends Hotel Sacher for its “traditional decor, legendary service, and the iconic Sacher-Torte.” After all, you have to share a slice of the famous chocolate sponge cake at some point while in Vienna. “And no visit to Vienna is complete without attending a classical concert or evening performance, whether at the Vienna State Opera or in one of the city’s historic concert halls,” Gibas adds.

Paris, France

“Paris is one of the world’s most romantic cities, and the City of Lights really does shine in winter. Lights twinkle along the tree-lined boulevards, department stores outdo each other with festive displays, and all of the restaurants and cafes have a warm and rather inviting glow,” says Turner. “It’s a season when Paris really comes into its own, and it’s hard to find a more romantic city during winter.” Although there is no shortage of charming Parisian places to lay your head at night, he’s particularly fond of Hôtel Plaza Athénée and its Eiffel Tower-facing rooms and suites. To up the ante on romance, follow Turner’s suggestions and “marvel at the city’s lights on a private Seine river cruise with Champagne, window-shop (or purchase) along the glittering Champs-Élysées, and unwind in a hand-drawn bath overlooking the Eiffel Tower.”

San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

“Winter is the best time to visit San Miguel de Allende for a romantic getaway, with sunny, clear skies and warm temperatures in the 70s. Dreamy strolls through the city’s cobblestone streets and Baroque architecture create the perfect backdrop for couples who love exploring local art galleries, wine tasting at nearby wineries, and romantic, intimate dinners that offer memorable gastronomic experiences,” says Wang. For an extra memorable activity, book a hot air balloon ride—or go a bit more lowkey with a spa day at Casa de Sierra Nevada, A Belmond Hotel.

St. Moritz, Switzerland

“St. Moritz is one of those winter destinations that looks like it’s come from a fairy tale. It’s like a luxury Narnia with high-end accommodation, designer shops, and world-renowned restaurants,” says Turner. “It offers all the quintessential romantic winter activities you would want, too, including ice skating on a frozen lake, drinking hot chocolate while walking in the snow, and cozy evenings together by the fire.” The Swiss resort town is filled with unforgettable hospitality experiences—Turner suggests Badrutt’s Palace—and you won’t want to miss a horse-drawn carriage ride around frozen Lake St. Moritz, skiing, or dining at any of the local Michelin-starred restaurants.