Still deciding on an epic destination for your upcoming honeymoon getaway? The Traveler's Joy team has crunched the numbers when it comes to recent honeymoons in order to share the hottest travel destinations for newlyweds in 2024.
While some places on the list are perennial favorites, others are emerging destinations that have cracked the top 10 for the first time ever. No matter your choice, all of these unique honeymoon destinations promise the trip of a lifetime.
Here are the hottest honeymoon destinations in the world, according to Traveler's Joy honeymoon couples. Choose your favorite, register for your honeymoon, and start turning those honeymoon dreams into a reality.
1. Italy
Italy has always been at or near the top of the list when it comes to international honeymoons -- and 2024 is no different. From the incredible historical sites in Rome like the Colosseum and the Trevi Fountain to the many gorgeous cliffside villages in Cinque Terre or the dazzling Amalfi Coast, Italy is overflowing with beauty and once-in-a-lifetime honeymoon experiences.
And one cannot forget the amazing food, stunning Dolomite Mountains, and endless vineyards and olive groves of Tuscany. It's truly a destination that will capture your heart.
2. Hawaii
Thanks to amazing year-round weather, spectacular beaches, top-notch hotels and resorts, and very diverse micro-environments (think rainforest terrain, snow-capped mountains, volcanoes, deserts, and rolling green hills), Hawaii remains a magnet for honeymooners in 2024.
Plus, Hawaii is an exotic destination in a location that feels worlds away for many honeymooners. According to our couples, being conveniently located in the United States is a big deal for many honeymooners hoping to embark on a memorable (but domestic) getaway.
And when you also factor in the tremendous history, big city ambiance of Honolulu and Waikiki, diverse food scene, and unforgettable sunsets, you've got an easy choice for a destination that checks all of the honeymoon boxes.
3. Greece
Between the incredible history and ancient sites of its capital city of Athens to the remarkable beauty of its many islands scattered across the Aegean Sea, Greece offers honeymooners memorable experiences in all corners of the country.
Most popular with recent newlyweds? Getting to visit the sparkling Greek Isles and embracing the emerald waters, secluded beaches, and colorful villages found in stunning places like Santorini, Mykonos, and Corfu.
The spectacular accommodation options available in the Greek Isles also helps pave the way for an unforgettable honeymoon trip. It doesn't get much better than luxurious cave-style rooms with infinity pools, terraced gardens, and cliff-top views of the sea and dazzling sunsets.
4. Japan
With a unique offering of tremendous culture, adventure, and authentic experiences, Japan has emerged as one the hottest honeymoon destinations in recent years, climbing into the top five this year for the very first time.
As for top destinations, Tokyo and Kyoto rank as the most visited places among our honeymoon travelers. As for experiences, honeymoon couples have put visiting historic shrines, foodie destinations, and traditional ryokan accommodations at the top of their list. Check out our article on the top things to do in Kyoto for honeymooners.
5. France
Like Italy, France offers a little bit of everything for honeymooners hoping to experience the trip of a lifetime. There are plenty of big city offerings in places like Paris, Marseille, and Lyon, beautiful wine regions with historic villages and countless vineyards, mountainous terrain with lots of four season pursuits, and an incredible coastline featuring hilltop towns, excellent beach resorts, and scenic harbors.
Of course, Paris remains the biggest draw, home to an endless list of landmarks, terrific cuisine, unique neighborhoods, and romantic endeavors. Don't miss our picks for the 20 most beautiful places to visit in the City of Light.
6. Dominican Republic
With its close proximity to the United States, many white-sand beaches, and luxurious resorts (many of which are all-inclusive), the Dominican Republic checks in at No. 6 on our list of hottest honeymoon destinations. In terms of top honeymoon vacation spots, Punta Cana is by far the go-to destination in the D.R., while Puerto Plata and the Samana Peninsula follow right behind.
Situated in the eastern part of the country, Punta Cana is home to some of the world's most spectacular strips of beachfront. On top of swimming and water sports, couples can also enjoy activities like golf, fishing, and top-notch spa treatments. The region is also well known for its all-inclusive resorts, perhaps the largest concentration in the entire Caribbean.
7. French Polynesia
Honeymoon couples in search of a unique slice of paradise continue to find it in French Polynesia, which finished at No. 7 on our list this year.
Home to striking islands like Tahiti, Bora Bora, and Moorea, this dreamy Pacific Ocean destination captures newlyweds with its turquoise waters, undulating mountains, white sand beaches, and incredible resorts, many of which feature overwater bungalows and private plunge pools.
Searching for an incredible honeymoon hotel? Set to open in the summer of 2024, the all-new Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa will feature private lagoons, plunge pools, overwater bungalows, and a phenomenal location at the base of Mount Otemanu.
8. United Kingdom
Between the world-class museums, iconic landmarks, and vibrant culture of London and the historic cities and epic landscape of Scotland, it's easy to see why the United Kingdom is considered a top honeymoon destination in 2024.
In England, honeymoon couples have their pick of hip boutique hotels in central London like The Standard, with its convenient Kings Cross location, plus modern rooms, top-notch restaurants, and cocktail lounges. Meanwhile, the Battersea Power Station has been a go-to destination for newlyweds visiting the city. Once a coal power plant, this space has been reimagined into a marvelous shopping and leisure destination featuring an impressive array of stores, restaurants, bars, theaters, and much more.
Meanwhile, couples visiting Scotland often put UNESCO World Heritage sites at the top of their travel lists, especially Edinburgh's Old and New Towns, home to incredible places like Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
9. Spain
Featuring vibrant cities, dazzling islands with beautiful beaches, snow-capped mountains, ancient ruins, and a world-renowned food scene, Spain is an attractive destination for all types of travelers.
Looking for a mix of history, high-quality food, and fun in the sun? Consider a visit to Marbella in Spain's Costa del Sol region. On top of great hotels, excellent restaurants, and sun-soaked beaches, the coastal city features a gorgeous Old Town with whitewashed buildings, colorful flowers, and narrow cobblestone streets. It doesn't get much dreamier than this.
10. Iceland
Iceland has now been a fixture within the top 10 honeymoon destinations for the past five years. With ample flights to and from the United States, unique lodging options, and a spectacular landscape featuring volcanoes, glaciers, waterfalls, and hot springs, Iceland is truly a one-of-a-kind country fit for a honeymoon adventure. From snorkeling in glacial waters to seeing the Northern Lights on a boat trip, don't miss these unforgettable Iceland excursions and experiences.
In case you missed it:
The Top 10 Reasons to Register for Your Honeymoon
Privacy Tips: How to Upgrade Your Honeymoon Travel Experience