How to Pick a Romantic Honeymoon Location During Wedding Planning

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When You Want to Go Everywhere and Somehow Have to Pick One Place

If I’m being honest, I want to go everywhere. Narrowing down a honeymoon destination can feel impossible, especially when you’re already making a hundred wedding decisions at the same time. A lot of couples lean toward beach destinations—and they are gorgeous—but sometimes your heart wants something a little more layered.

For us, we’d probably choose somewhere in Japan, because it’s been high on our bucket list for years. I love that it offers both nature and city life in one trip. You can wander through quiet landscapes one day and explore vibrant neighborhoods the next. That balance feels perfect to me—and that realization is exactly what helped clarify the decision.

Your honeymoon doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s. It just needs to feel right for you. This guide walks you through how to choose a romantic honeymoon location that fits your personalities, your energy, and the kind of memories you want to make—without adding stress to your wedding planning season.

Start With Your Personalities When Picking a Destination 

Before you look at maps or flight deals, take a moment to think about how you both recharge. Honeymoons work best when they align with who you are, not just what looks romantic online.

Ask yourselves:

 • Do you relax by being active or by slowing way down?

 • Do you love exploring new cities, or do you crave quiet scenery?

 • Do you want structure or spontaneity?

If one of you thrives on adventure and the other prefers comfort, look for destinations that offer both. You don’t need to compromise the joy out of it—you just need balance. When you choose a place that supports both of your personalities, the trip feels effortless instead of forced.

Fun Idea: Matching Mr. & Mrs. luggage tags are practical but also loving. They make travel smoother and feel special in their symbolism.

10 Lightly Sought-After Honeymoon Destinations (and Why Couples Love Them)

These destinations are romantic, memorable, and beautiful—without being overly crowded or predictable.

1. Japan

Japan offers an incredible blend of nature, culture, and modern life. You can experience peaceful landscapes, historic towns, and vibrant cities all in one trip. It’s ideal if you love variety and meaningful exploration.

2. Portugal

Portugal combines coastal beauty, charming cities, and relaxed pacing. It’s romantic without being flashy and perfect for couples who love food, walking, and scenic views.

3. Slovenia

This destination feels like a hidden gem. Mountains, lakes, and storybook towns create a naturally romantic atmosphere without crowds.

4. Scotland

Scotland offers dramatic landscapes, cozy towns, and a sense of adventure. It’s great if you love nature, history, and quiet moments together.

5. Taiwan

Taiwan blends city energy with stunning nature. You can explore markets, mountains, and coastlines in one trip, making it perfect for couples who want contrast.

6. New Zealand

New Zealand is ideal if you love scenic drives and outdoor beauty. It feels expansive and peaceful while still offering plenty to explore.

7. Austria

Elegant cities, alpine scenery, and calm energy make Austria a beautiful honeymoon option. It’s romantic in a refined, relaxed way.

8. Norway

Norway is perfect for couples drawn to natural beauty and quiet adventure. Fjords, scenic towns, and dramatic views create unforgettable moments.

9. Morocco

Morocco offers rich culture, texture, and color. It’s romantic if you love sensory experiences and unique settings.

10. Uruguay

This destination feels relaxed and intimate. Coastal towns and slow pacing make it ideal for couples who want calm and connection.

11. Kauai, Hawaii

Kauai is perfect if you love beaches. You get dramatic coastlines, lush greenery, waterfalls, and quiet beaches. It’s a beautiful choice if you want a honeymoon that blends relaxation with nature-driven adventure.

12. Mallorca, Spain

Mallorca offers crystal-clear beaches paired with charming towns, scenic drives, and incredible food. You can spend one day relaxing by the water and the next exploring historic villages or coastal cliffs.

Wherever you go, don’t forget a universal travel adapter to keep your phone and electronics charged. Many countries have different outlets, so do some research before you go to make sure you can charge everything you need to. Keeping your phone charged makes photos, contacts, and maps accessible. This is essential for long days out.

Why You Might Consider a Wedding Planner’s Help for Honeymoon Planning

Even if you’re comfortable planning travel, wedding season can drain your mental energy. Having help—especially from someone already supporting your wedding. It can be a relief.

A planner can:

 • Narrow down destinations that fit your personalities

 • Coordinate timing around your wedding

 • Handle logistics while you focus on excitement

You don’t have to outsource everything. Even light guidance can remove decision fatigue and help you feel confident in your choice.

What to Consider When Selecting Your Honeymoon Stay 

1. Location within the destination

You don’t want to spend your honeymoon commuting. Choose a stay that aligns with how you want to spend your days.

2. Balance of comfort and experience

You deserve comfort, but you may also want character. Look for places that feel special without being impractical.

3. Privacy and quiet

Honeymoons thrive on space to just be together. Check reviews for noise levels and privacy.

4. Accessibility

After a wedding, ease matters. Simple transportation and clear check-in processes help you relax faster.

5. Amenities that support rest

Think about what helps you unwind—baths, views, breakfast options, or outdoor space.

6. Flexibility

Look for stays that allow easy schedule changes. You’ll appreciate that freedom.

7. Emotional feel

Photos tell part of the story, but reviews tell the rest. Choose places that feel right.

What to Expect Emotionally on Your Honeymoon

The first few days often feel like a deep exhale. You may be tired, emotional, or quiet at first—and that’s completely normal. Give yourselves permission to rest.

As the days go on, you’ll settle into a rhythm as a couple. Conversations will deepen with time and laughter will come easier.

Bring a compact travel journal that is perfect for capturing small moments. Compact journals are easy to pack and meaningful to revisit. These are great for reflection!

What to Bring for a Smooth and Romantic Honeymoon

Pack for comfort and flexibility. You don’t need everything—just what supports ease.

Some Important Things to Research By Country and Airline:

- Luggage Size and Weight Requirements

- Bottle Sizes for Liquids

- Items That Are Not Allowed or Restricted

- Immunizations Needed

- Passport and Traveling Requirements

- Safety and Current Political Status

Bring:

 • Comfortable walking shoes

 • Layers for changing weather + a bathing suit if needed

 • One or two special outfits

 • Chargers and adapters

 • A small bag for daily outings

 • Personal care items

The goal is feeling prepared without feeling weighed down.

Compression packing cubes help you organize and make space without stress. Packing cubes also make unpacking and repacking easier.

Lightweight travel totes are ideal for day trips and essentials. They are easy to carry and versatile.

Also, don’t forget soft sleep masks that are great for flights and new time zones. They help you rest anywhere!

A Meaningful Honeymoon Activity to Create Lasting Memories

The “Memory Day” Activity (Simple but Powerful)

1. Choose one day with no strict schedule

Let the day unfold naturally.

2. Pick one shared activity

A walk, meal, or scenic stop works beautifully.

3. Take one photo together

Not posed—just real.

4. Share reflections that evening

Talk about what surprised you or felt meaningful.

5. Write a short note afterward

Capture the feeling while it’s fresh.

6. Keep it simple

This isn’t about perfection.

7. Revisit it later

You’ll treasure it long after the trip ends.

Common Honeymoon Planning Mistakes

The number one mistake is not planning enough or trying to do too much - Have planned moments so you don’t miss anything, but be sure to leave room to rest and enjoy one another in your travel destination.

Choosing a Honeymoon That Feels Like You

Picking a honeymoon location doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. When you focus on how you want to feel—connected, relaxed, inspired—the decision becomes clearer. I’m all about honeymoons don’t need to follow a formula since I’m big on flow and intention.

Choose a place that supports your personalities, honors your energy, and invites you to slow down together. When your honeymoon feels aligned with who you are, it becomes the amazing beginning of your shared story.

Celebrate it fully, gently, and with excitement for everything ahead.

Wishing you the best at your beautiful wedding! ✨

Warmly,

Jenna