12 Summer Destinations That Are Perfect for Couples

Traveling is one of the most enriching things you can do in your lifetime — and it's even better with a partner. Taking a trip together is a milestone in any relationship, kind of like moving in together, getting a pet, or shopping for furniture at Ikea. Seeing your partner in an unfamiliar place can tell you a lot about who they are as a person. Many couples consider taking a trip together as a way to maintain the spark in their relationship or even an important step before getting married.

Getting out of your comfort zone can lead to an even deeper bond, especially if you're in the first years of your relationship. Travel helps you form better lines of communication and find ways to compromise, but the best reason to travel together is more simply the memories you’ll make. If you're ready to start planning your romantic getaway, here are 12 places we suggest going with your significant other.

Banff National Park, Canada

The best part of Canada has to be its gorgeous natural landscapes. You and your partner can get your fill of awe-inspiring mountains and dazzling blue lakes in Banff National Park, Alberta's crown jewel. Spend a weekend on one of the area's most stunning bodies of water at the romantic Fairmont Château Lake Louise, where you can start a hike or rent a kayak steps from the hotel. Don't miss a sunrise at Moraine Lake, too, which has its own incredible trails. In the picturesque ski town of Banff, you'll find all the amenities you need as well as another grand Fairmont property with a regal feel.

Santorini, Greece

Gorgeous white cliffside buildings with bright blue roofs that perfectly compliment the ocean below? Count yourselves in. Santorini is a romantic oasis and a stunning place to watch the sunset, perhaps best seen from a private cruise or near Oia Castle. While you're there, take time to relax with your significant other in the bubbling waters of Nea Kameni, a hot spring on a volcano.

Bangkok

Hop on a motorbike for a thrilling adventure in Thailand's bustling capital, shop at a floating market on the outskirts of the city, and spend every day of your vacation devouring fresh and delicious Thai food. Foodie couples will especially love tasting the near-infinite variety of flavors from smoking street stands, hip vegan eateries, and locals-only dives. Have a spiritual experience together at Wat Pho, then settle into a luxurious hotel like Akara Bangkok, which has a rooftop pool with epic views of the city.

London

Beautiful architecture, a rich history, and plenty of arts and culture await you and your partner in London. Make memories on a self-guided walking tour of famous landmarks like Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and Trafalgar Square, then stop for high tea and Champagne somewhere glamorous like Hotel Café Royal. If you want to get away from the crowds in the city, you can always take a tour to see the vibrant, green fields and charming villages in the countryside.

Tulum, Mexico

Go snorkeling in the warm waters of the Caribbean Sea, swim in the cenote (a natural sinkhole formed in the limestone bedrock), or hike the nearby Mayan ruins. Tulum's white-sand beaches are primed for romantic picnics and evening strolls. Splash out on a luxurious hotel or resort to celebrate your love — preferably one with an on-site spa or packages just for couples.

Tanzania

You and your partner won’t find a more adventurous vacation than a safari. Visit a conservation site or wildlife park in Tanzania to see and learn about local wildlife from elephants to giraffes and lions. Many tour operators that offer safaris also have education programs where you can learn about conservation efforts. Serengeti National Park is one of the most popular destinations in the area, where a Four Seasons property provides comfy accommodations right next to an animal watering hole.

The Adirondacks, New York

Immerse yourselves in the nature of The Adirondacks, a clean-air oasis less than a five-hour drive from New York City. You can pitch a tent, breathe in the mountain air, and gaze up at the stars through the canopy of evergreen trees. The six million-acre Adirondack Park has places to camp, but for a little more comfort book a stay in one of the cozy lakeside inns or chalets, complete with your own in-room fireplace.

Iceland

Iceland may be on the chillier side most of the time, but it’s a proverbially hot destination for couples looking for a unique vacation. You and your partner can soak in geothermal spas at the Blue Lagoon, watch the glow of the northern lights, and enjoy a session in one of the many saunas. Beholding the dreamy landscapes together is special, and the Land of Fire and Ice isn't even too difficult to get to despite how otherworldly it looks. A direct flight from NYC to Reykjavik takes under six hours.

Hakone, Japan

Visit Hakone from late March to mid-April to see the cherry trees in bloom. There aren't as many here as there are in Kyoto, but it does have several spots for seeing the pink blossoms that pop in spring. Another reason to plan your couple's vacation in Hakone is the abundance of hot springs. Take in the natural beauty of the Japanese landscape while absorbing the healing waters on a nice day trip away from the city. You can also visit Mount Fuji or the Hakone Shrine.

Amalfi Coast, Italy

The entire country of Italy is the epitome of a romantic destination, but the gorgeous seaside villages of the Amalfi Coast are perfect for people who want a mix of beaches, history, and cultural wonders. Visit famous sites like the Emerald Grotto, medieval churches, museums, gardens, and natural stone streets. Sip limoncello alfresco at a cliffside haunt and go for leisurely strolls along the Mediterranean Sea for quality couple time.

Cappadocia, Turkey

Cappadocia is known for its “fairy chimneys” — tall, narrow spires of rock peppering the landscape. There are also cave churches, homes carved into the rock, and more that tourists like to admire from a bird's-eye view. Hands down the most romantic way to see Cappadocia is by hot air balloon. If you’re looking for a truly magical experience to share with your significant other, this is the place.

Paris

What better place to ignite your passion for one another than the City of Love? Paris is packed with bakeries slinging fresh pastries and baguettes, museums with world-famous art on their walls, and theaters putting on burlesque. Claim two chairs at one of the many sidewalk cafes and people-watch while sipping espresso together, and tick off must-dos like visiting the Louvre and snapping a selfie in front of the Eiffel Tower.