Honeymoon Destinations for 2025

If you’re on the hunt for honeymoon inspiration, just like my hubby and I - then you’ve come to the right place. We got married in April 2024, and had our ‘mini-moon’ a few months later in July. We spent 4 nights in Zanzibar which was exactly what we needed after a long year of wedding planning. But we both said we would save our big honeymoon for 2025, with plans in place to spend 3 weeks exploring South Africa, Namibia, Botswana and Zambia. Sorry I don’t have inspiration for these destinations - yet! But watch this space! (I can’t wait!)

However in the last few years we’ve been to some pretty incredible destinations that could have easily been for our honeymoon. Including the Maldives, Seychelles, Montenegro and Saudi Arabia. Yes you heard that right - just wait until you see the pics - you’ll be booking a trip to Saudi quicker than you can think.

Weddings are EXPENSIVE so having to wait a year or two after your big day is completely normal. Plus it gives you extra time to plan and splurge out a bit more. After all it should be a once in a lifetime trip, so why not give yourself something special to look forward to!

Below I have listed destinations that are perfect for honeymooners, including hotel recommendations, locations and highlights from our trips. Enjoy - and happy honeymooning!

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1. Maldives

When it comes to iconic honeymoon destinations, the Maldives is unmatched. With white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and adults-only resorts, the islands are the very definition of paradise. We stayed at Villa Nautica, a newly upgraded resort in the North Malé Atoll, just a 20-minute speedboat ride from the airport.

Our trip was filled with unforgettable highlights. The stunning infinity pool quickly became our favourite spot, offering endless views and ultimate relaxation. The island also boasts a range of activities—basketball, badminton, water sports—you name it. And then there was the spa: the best we’ve ever experienced. Outdoor massages beneath swaying palm trees hit differently when you’re in the Maldives.

There’s a myth that the Maldives can be ‘boring’, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Whoever said that clearly hasn’t been. For us, there wasn’t enough time to experience everything the island had to offer. For couples looking to disconnect from the world and focus on each other, the Maldives is a dream come true. You won’t need to look any further.

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2. Seychelles

“What's the difference between Seychelles and the Maldives?” is a question I’m often asked, closely followed by, “Which one do you prefer?” And I have a clear answer: Seychelles is my favourite. The iconic boulders, diverse landscape, lush greenery, and sense of freedom make it stand out.

In Seychelles, we hired a car, which allowed us to explore the entire island. We visited other resorts, famous beaches, waterfalls, and local restaurants, experiencing the island to its fullest. While the water isn’t as calm as the Maldives—likely due to the time of year we visited—the crystal-clear seas were just as breathtaking. Swimming wasn’t a daily activity, but the overall beauty of the island made up for it.

We stayed at Bliss Boutique Hotel (pictured right), situated near the iconic Beau Vallon, a stunning beach on the northwest coast of Mahé. Highlights of our trip included diving in the Indian Ocean, having lunch at the legendary Four Seasons Resort (pictured left), and hiking to Anse Major, a secluded beach only accessible on foot. It was pure paradise with a touch of adventure.

The Seychellois people were wonderfully laid-back, adding to the island’s charm. Waiting up to an hour for food might test your patience elsewhere, but here, it’s all part of the slow, easygoing rhythm of island life.

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3. Zanzibar, Tanzania

Zanzibar has become increasingly popular in recent years, especially among Dubai residents, as it’s just a five-hour flight away. This island escape earns top marks for its laid-back, tropical vibes. The local Tanzanian people are truly some of the warmest and most welcoming in the world—their energy and love are infectious. Every mealtime, we were greeted with smiles and cheerful phrases like “Jambo” or “Hakuna Matata.”

We stayed at the Riu Palace resort, located on the northern tip of the island, famed for its pristine beaches and breathtaking sunsets. The hospitality was second to none—we were fed like royalty and cared for with such warmth and attention. Our days were filled with simple joys: playing pool volleyball, strolling along the beach, and soaking in the island’s beauty.

One highlight was a snorkelling trip to Mnemba Island, a truly stunning experience. Along the way, we were lucky enough to encounter a pod of dolphins, which was magical. Although it was the bumpiest boat ride I’ve ever been on, it was an adventure I’ll never forget.

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4. Barbados

The Caribbean has long been the ultimate honeymoon destination, and Barbados is no exception. I visited the island with my sister in 2015—not exactly romantic vibes, but it was easy to see why so many couples choose these islands every year. We’d been dreaming of experiencing paradise for the first time, and Barbados didn’t disappoint. Stunning resorts, pristine beaches, and picture-perfect views were exactly what we were after—and exactly what we found.

We stayed at the All Seasons Resort Europa, just a stone’s throw from the famous Sandy Lane Beach, a celebrity hotspot frequented by the likes of Simon Cowell and Mark Wahlberg. Thankfully, Sandy Lane is a public beach, so we got to enjoy its beauty without the hefty price tag.

Barbados also impressed us with its vibrant cuisine and nightlife, offering plenty of lively restaurants and bars scattered across the island. For adventure lovers, the water sports scene is fantastic including jet skiing and paragliding. One of the highlights of our trip was visiting the Barbados Wildlife Reserve, where monkeys and tortoises roam freely.

Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or a little bit of both, Barbados delivers the full paradise experience.

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5. Italy

If you’re after a cultural and historic honeymoon without compromising on stunning views and scenery, Italy is the perfect destination. Venice remains one of the most popular spots for honeymooners (pictured right), while the Amalfi Coast (pictured left) is equally breathtaking.

To my surprise, one of the most romantic places I visited in Italy was Pisa. With fewer tourists than expected, the charming cafés and restaurants near the Leaning Tower offered a quintessentially Italian experience. On the Amalfi Coast, the highlight for me was Sorrento—a picturesque town boasting breathtaking sea views and idyllic beaches. It’s perfect for a refreshing swim or a romantic evening walk before dinner in one of its delightful restaurants.

Venice, on the other hand, is a place to truly ‘get lost.’ Its narrow, winding streets often lead to nowhere, revealing only enchanting views of the canals and gondolas. There’s nothing more romantic than strolling hand in hand through this magical city. And of course, the Italian cuisine and wine are reason enough to unwind and embrace the slower pace of ‘Italian time.’

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6. Japan

If Japan isn’t already on your honeymoon radar, it absolutely should be. It’s one of my favourite countries—a place I never imagined I’d explore, but I’m so grateful I did. While many associate Japan with the bustling streets of Tokyo, it’s so much more than that. Pristine beaches, idyllic islands, majestic volcanoes, and breathtaking mountains—yes, Japan has it all.

Although it might not be the first place that comes to mind for a honeymoon, I firmly believe Japan is a country to explore while you’re young. I was fortunate enough to visit at the age of 23 while working on a cruise ship, and I’ve been longing to return ever since.

My journey took me to the paradise islands of Okinawa, Miyakojima, Ishigaki, and Taketomi. Taketomi, in particular, felt like stepping into another world, with its pristine beaches accessible only by bicycle and a tiny population of residents (pictured left). I also visited Kagoshima, home to one of Japan’s most active volcanoes, Sakurajima—a dramatic and unforgettable experience (pictured right).

Doesn’t that sound like a honeymoon full of adventure and discovery? On top of it all, the people of Japan are incredibly respectful, and the cuisine is easily among the best in the world.

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7. Al Ula, Saudi Arabia

Now we’re getting to the exciting part. Al Ula has gained a lot of attention in recent years, emerging as a luxury haven for those eager to explore the ancient Nabatean history while indulging in five-star comfort. Al Ula is a small historic town that has been transformed into a sought-after desert destination.

We stayed at Habitas Caravans (pictured right), part of the Our Habitas Al Ula resort. Our accommodation was a traditional Airstream nestled among towering, Mars-like mountains. The silence was almost overwhelming—so peaceful and calming. Being on the same resort as Our Habitas, we had access to some incredible facilities, including the most beautiful pool I’ve ever swam in (pictured left) - and I’ve had my fair share of pool experiences. I’ve never felt more relaxed or disconnected from the world.

The landscape is a striking blend of Monument Valley in Utah and Wadi Rum in Jordan, with a touch of luxury woven in. Al Ula completely changed our perception of Saudi Arabia. The local Saudi people were so welcoming, and we can’t wait to return.

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8. Montenegro

Montenegro is, in my opinion, one of the most underrated countries in Europe. With its towering mountains, uninterrupted views, crystal-clear waters, and the charming historic town of Kotor, it’s truly a hidden gem. Picture-perfect hotels line the waterfront, making it an ideal destination for honeymooners.

We stayed in an Airbnb in Dobrota, just a 15-minute drive from the beautiful Kotor. However, down the road from us was a hotel we dined at every day—Hotel Forza Terra—which might just be one of my favourite hotels I’ve ever visited.

We spent our days swimming in the Adriatic Sea, often with it all to ourselves. We jumped off jetties into the refreshing waters and relaxed at Virtu Beach Club, which offered incredible food, stunning views, great music, and comfortable sunbeds. Most evenings, we strolled to Kotor Old Town for dinner, and it truly felt magical. It’s one of the most romantic old towns I’ve ever experienced.

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