ABTA predicted couples-only holidays to boom in 2025, and there’s something irresistible about escaping the everyday with someone you love. More than a change of scenery, it’s a chance to slow down, reconnect and create memories that feel like they belong only to the two of you.
It doesn’t have to be about extravagance, either – the small details often make a trip feel personal. Here’s how to plan your romantic getaway well.
Choose a setting with atmosphere
Start with a destination that sparks the right kind of emotion. Think about what suits your relationship: do you crave quiet countryside walks and cosy corners, or vibrant city streets and late-night cocktails?
Avoid generic hotels, too; instead, pick somewhere with character, like a converted barn or a boutique hideaway. 45% of travellers now pick destinations based purely on the accommodation. The setting should feel like a part of your adventure, not just a bed for the night.
Book a memorable meal
Food brings many couples together, so make dinner one of the highlights of your stay. Skip the familiar chain restaurants and seek out venues that feel special, like a candlelit bistro with a chef’s tasting menu or the hot new place in town. Reserve a table in advance, and if possible, request a quiet corner where you can chat properly without feeling rushed.
Pair the meal with a local wine or a cocktail, too; these touches turn dinner into an experience rather than a routine, the flavours and setting combining memorably.
Add personal gifts
A well-chosen gift can transform a weekend from pleasant to special. Think beyond basic flowers and chocolates – choose something that speaks to your shared history or plans, like a classic book or a framed photo from a favourite trip. If you’re marking a milestone, consider something timeless like a diamond ring.
Wrap the gift with care and present it at a moment that feels natural, such as before dinner or while watching the sunset. These kinds of gestures show thought, not just expense.
Build in slow time
Try not to cram the itinerary with back-to-back activities, as romance often thrives in unhurried moments – the kind where you can talk without glancing at the clock. Reserve space for calm, like a late breakfast in bed, a stroll without a map or an hour in a spa where the world feels far away.
When you allow time to breathe, the weekend becomes more like a shared escape than a tourist’s checklist.
There’s no one-size-fits-all formula for a romantic 48 hours, of course. But when you choose with care and plan with intention, the trip transforms into a core memory that deepens your bond. If you can strike the right balance from the options above, you’ll return not just refreshed, but even closer.