So you’re ready to make things official with your loved one but you’re unsure where to do your romantic proposal. Whether it’s something low-key or somewhere with a bit more pizazz we’ve compiled a list of the most romantic places in the world to propose. The 15 destinations we’ve picked aren’t the typical cliches but are places where you can make an everlasting memory and somewhere you could visit on your anniversary.
Good luck!
1. Bow Bridge, Central Park, New York City
Forgo the typical marriage spot of the Empire State Building that’s bustling with snap-happy tourists and instead head to Bow Bridge in the middle of Central Park. Overlooking The Lake, which is usually home to myriad wildlife and people boating whatever the weather, it’s the perfect picturesque place to take the knee and pop the big question.
Where to stay: The Times Square EDITION.
Romantic activity: Walk arm-in-arm through Brooklyn’s Botanical Gardens. You have 52 acres of woodland and gorgeous terraces to explore so lots of time to talk about your wedding plans! If you’re visiting between April and May don’t miss the iconic cherry trees.
2. Rooftop of Terrass Hotel, Paris
A Paris proposal has been done so many times that romantically-inclined partners could be forgiven for becoming weepy at the mere suggestion of a trip there. Just don’t do it at the Eiffel Tower. A beautiful architectural feat of mankind – yes. A place where you’ll achieve a memorable romantic atmosphere – absolutely not. The rooftop of Terrass Hotel in Montmartre holds such a spectacular view on its 7th floor that you’ll marvel that this excellently rated restaurant has a menu that doesn’t break the bank and it’s still somewhat of a hidden gem.
Where to stay: The Terrass Hotel.
Romantic activity: Cuddle up in front of a classic film at art deco arthouse cinema Le Champo which has been a favourite with locals since it opened its doors in 1938.
3. The Shard, London
London is huge, the boundary is nearly ten times the size of Paris at 1,572 km² and edges New York City by around 300km². So picking a place to propose can be daunting, with the ornate buildings, spectacular parks and romantic history that is present on every corner of the city. So why not see all of London in its full glory? Atop The Shard, the tallest building in the UK. There are six fine-dining restaurants situated between the 31st-52nd floor which serves excellent cuisine and drinks to woo your prospective fiancee.
Where to stay: The Shangri-La Hotel is located inside The Shard meaning you won’t need to travel too far to bed.
Romantic activity: Take your loved one to the ‘View from the Shard’ observatory deck on the 72nd floor. Just perhaps make very sure they’re not afraid of heights first…
4. Cliffs of Moher, Ireland
On the southeastern part of Ireland in County Clare is the Cliffs of Moher, 8km of coastline cliffs rise out of the sea to reach towering heights of 214m. An incredibly popular attraction in Ireland, the view is something you’d find hard to achieve anywhere else in the world as you look across the great expanse of ocean. If you want to have some peace while you pop the question then very early in the morning is your best bet, check the Google Places Live function to see when the area gets busy.
Where to stay: For a taste of an authentic Irish village then stay at the Roadford House & Accommodation, only a 1-minute walk from McDermott’s pub in Roadford where the Irish music starts at 9.30 and goes until late.
Romantic activity: If you fancy being squished together in a tiny tower, you can climb the castle-like O’Brien’s tower and enjoy more lovely views together when you reach the summit.
5. The Pap of Glencoe, Scottish Highlands
Nothing says ‘I love you’ more than forcing a partner to climb up a mountain, well The Pap of Glencoe is worth the effort. Glencoe itself is one of Scotland’s most historic and, arguably, it’s most beautiful glens. Which is why it’s worth the around-5-hour trek to the top of the most accessible mountain in the region; to propose with the stunning view of Glencoe Village behind you and Lochleven in the distance.
Where to stay: The Glencoe Inn.
Romantic activity: Snuggle up together with a blanket and a hot toddy and enjoy some fine star-gazing opportunities.
6. Orange Tree Garden Aventine Hill, Rome, Italy
Trying to propose in Rome is just asking for trouble, whether it’s by the Trevi Fountain ala Roman Holiday or on the Spanish Steps. It’s more likely you’ll hear a ‘mate can you get out of the way, I’m trying to take a selfie’, than a joyful ‘Yes!’ So to escape the majority of the crowds head to The Giardino, or in English, the Orange Garden on Aventine Hill. The perfect place for a bottle of Italian wine, a picnic supper and a ring. Remember to check Google Places Live to see how busy it is.
Where to stay: The Raphael Hotel offers some of the best views in Rome and is therefore a great spot for a celebratory glass of champagne or a cocktail.
Romantic activity: Learn about the love lives of the Romans on a one-of-a-kind Love and Sex History of Ancient Rome walking tour with your loved one, which ends in the beautfiful square of Piazza Navona.
7. Neuschwanstein Castle, Bavaria, Germany
Possibly one of the best examples of Bavaria looking-like-it’s-been-plucked-from-the-pages-of-a-fairytale is Neuschwanstein Castle. Located in the small village of Hohenschwangau near Füssen, this castle is surrounded by dense forest, hiking trails and is one of the most popular destinations along Germany’s ‘Romantic Road’. If you want the full effect, take your partner to the Marienbrücke bridge, just a 15-minute walk away, the 1845 bridge is built right between two sheer cliffs, and it’s where you’ll find the most spectacular view of the castle.
Where to stay: Hotel Das Rübezahl is just three miles from the castle,
Romantic activity: Hohenschwangau is also located on ‘Romantic road’ and well worth a trip to enjoy more memorable moments overlooking the Alpsee and surrounding mountains
KAYAK Tip: The restaurants around the castle will probably be a tad inflated due to the beautiful location so venture a bit further afield when you want to eat.
8. Imerovigli, Santorini, Greece
Santorini is well known for being the place with the most beautiful sunsets and the most envy-inducing Instagram shots. With only 470 permanent residents, Imerovigli is known for its peaceful tranquillity and its quintessential Greek white and blue-domed buildings – you’re almost spoilt for choice on places to propose! We’d recommend Skaros Rock;, after a mildly challenging walk to a peak you’ll be rewarded with the perfect sunset/rise depending on when you go.
Where to stay: For a real indulgence, and Santorini is the place to be indulgent, then check into the Honeymoon Petra Villas offering spectacular views and rooms.
Romantic activity: You’ll find romance at every turn here so find a secluded corner of a rooftop bar and watch the sunset with a cocktail for a moment you’ll remember forever.
9. Lake of Love, Bruges
Bruges is like a fairytale and the ‘Lake of Love’ or Minnewater, is an enchanting spot surrounded by greenery and turreted houses – perfect for an idyllic waterside picnic. Legend tells that the lake is named after a young girl called Minna who was in love with a boy from a rival tribe, they were unable to be together, and the girl died from heartbreak. It’s said that if you cross the bridge over the lake and kiss your loved one there, your love will last forever. A perfect intro before popping the question.
Where to stay: The very swanky Hotel Van Cleef.
Romantic activity: Visit one of Bruges many amazing chocolate shops and then share them as you stroll along the city’s canals and soak up the fairytail atmosphere.
10. Grotta Palazzese, Polignano A Mare, Italy
Nestled on the Valle d’Itria is Polignano A Mare, a tiny town surrounded by rocky cliff coastlines that are entwined with winding, cobbled streets stuffed with restaurants, bars and other delights. The shining star is without a doubt the world-famous Grotta Palazzese; carved out of limestone rocks with a view of the Adriatic, this restaurant offers an unparalleled dining experience. Dimly lit tables add to the ambience; a storybook way to ask for someone’s hand in marriage and come on, who could say no when you pop the question here?
Where to stay: It’s got to be the Grotta Palazzese Beach Hotel.
Romantic activity: Lama Monachile is a crystal clear bay surrounded by spectacular sandstone side walls from where you can see the city peeking out; go for an evening stroll, dip your toes in the water and watch the sunset.
11. Northern Lights, Iceland
You’ll be hard-pressed to find anything more memorable than proposing under the Northern Lights in Iceland, but in order to do so, some planning is required. The best time to see the Northern Lights is from September to April when there are clear skies, which means the longer you stay in Iceland, the more chance you’ll have of finding them. Iceland’s tourist board has an excellent guide, but we’d recommend going out to Landmannalaugar, a beautiful nature area which holds geothermal baths as well as prime Northern Light spotting areas.
Where to stay: You’re best setting up a base in the city of Rekyjavik, Grandi by Center Hotels is located close to the shore.
Romantic activity: Cover each other in clay while enjoying the warm natural waters of the Blue Lagoon, one of the 25 wonders of the world.
12. Mljet Island, Croatia
Ah, the Dalmatian Coast, where travellers go to soak up the sun, eat great food and drink cheap beverages before exploring the varied islands located off the coast. Mljet Island could arguably one of the least known Croatian islands; much of the island is covered in forests and fields, occasionally dotted with the odd fishing village here and there. Just down from Kortia village is Saplunara, where the beaches of Velika, Mala Saplunara and Blace are surrounded by dense, lush forest. This secluded patch of paradise is easy to enjoy all by yourself, even in the most tourist-heavy months – so wait for the perfect moment and ask the all-important question.
Where to stay: There is one main hotel on Mljet, Hotel Odisej Mljet, but there are lots of other options for accommodation on the island.
Romantic activity: There are plenty of wonderful places to swim on Mljet, including Sutmiholjska. It’s a gorgeous beach with crystal-clear waters and the Odysseus Cave, a limestone cave whose 20-metre-long tunnel entrance you can explore either by boat or by swimming, with surrounding cliffs perfect for diving.
13. Geirangerfjord, Norway
If you both enjoy the great outdoors and amazing hiking trails then whisk your loved one to this Scandinavian beauty spot to pop the question. There are many magical secret spots to discover and the village of Geiranger has a lovely rustic charm where you can relax in your newly-engaged bliss.
Where to stay: Try the Hotel Union Geiranger Bad & Spa.
Romantic activity: Enjoy a champagne toast on a 90minute boat ride through the Geirangerfjord – don’t miss the famed Seven Sisters Waterfall.
14. The Las Vegas dancing waterfalls, Nevada, USA
Las Vegas isn’t all about casinos and partying. Book a table for dinner outside The Bellagio Hotel and you’ll have a sweet spot in front of the dancing waterfalls to get down on one knee. The shows are every fifteen minutes so you’ll have to get your timings right if you want them in your magical moment.
Where to stay: The Bellagio Hotel is a Las Vegas icon and famously was the setting of George Clooney and Brad Pitt’s smash hit movie Ocean’s 11.
Romantic activity: If you’ve both got a head for heights take a flight over the Grand Canyon at sunset on a helicopter tour.
15. Disney’s Magic Kingdom, Walt Disney World, Florida
And if you’re looking to treat your potential wife to a real princess experience you could propose in front of Cinderella’s Castle itself. Immerse yourself in the magic of Disney and get down on one knee in front of the beautiful 189ft structure in the flagship Magic Kingdom theme park. Grab a Disney photographer and seize the day for some amazing pictures.
Where to stay: Disney’s Wilderness Lodge which is located just a short boat ride away from the Magic Kingdom theme park.
Romantic activity: Enjoy a celebratory dinner in Cinderella’s Castle itself. You might even get to meet her.
If you enjoyed this article, you may like to read:
- Tips on how to pack a suitcase
- Learn what are multi-city flights and how to book them on KAYAK
- Expert guide on how to survive red-eye flights
Originally published 09 17, updated 10 22.
