The 15 best destinations for your honeymoon in 2026

Is your wedding approaching and are you dreaming of an unforgettable honeymoon in 2026? Choosing the right destination for a honeymoon is essential to starting your married life on the right foot and sharing excellent memories.

Between idyllic beaches, majestic mountains and fascinating cultures, the options are numerous and sometimes confusing! However, some regions of the globe might be better suited to your couple than others.

In this practical guide, we will compare 15 trending destinations that will give you some ideas and help you better envision your honeymoon in 2026. We will also share some practical tips to help you make the right decision.

Ready to discover these 15 super romantic places? Let's go!

Quick summary

How to choose your honeymoon destination?

Before you begin, and to better understand your needs, you should ask yourself these 4 essential questions:

1. What is your budget?

Budget is often the primary consideration. Here are the average price ranges per destination:

• Tight budget (< €2,000/person): Thailand, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Mexico
• Average budget (€2,000-€4,000/person): Bali, Mauritius, Greece, Italy, Zanzibar
• Comfortable budget (€4,000-€7,000/person): Seychelles, Indonesia, Japan, Costa Rica
• Luxury budget (> €7,000/person): Maldives, Polynesia, Tahiti

2. Which season suits you?

Each destination has its best time to visit. Consider:

• Dry season: Better weather, but more touristy and expensive
• Mid-season: Good compromise between weather and price
• Rainy season: Cheaper, but risk of bad weather

3. What type of trip do you dream of?

• Beach relaxation: Maldives, Polynesia, Seychelles, Mauritius
• Adventure and nature: Costa Rica, Tanzania, Namibia, Vietnam
• Culture and history: Japan, Italy, Greece, Egypt
• A mix of everything: Bali, Thailand, Mexico, Sri Lanka

4. How long is your stay?

• 1-2 weeks: Destinations close by or without major time differences
• 2-3 weeks: Far-flung destinations (Asia, Polynesia)
• More than 3 weeks: Ideal for destinations with multiple islands

Our Top 15 Best Honeymoon Destinations in 2026

1. Bali, Indonesia – The Island of the Gods

Bali is a must-see destination for honeymooners. Between white sand beaches, sacred temples and verdant rice paddies, this Indonesian island offers a perfect blend of relaxation and discovery.

Why choose Bali?

• Romantic beaches (Seminyak, Uluwatu)
• Sacred temples and Balinese culture
• Traditional spas and massages
• Delicious food
• Excellent value for money

Best time to go: April to October (dry season) Estimated budget: €1,500-€2,500 per person (10 days) Recommended duration: 10-12 days

👉 Read our practical guide: Honeymoon in Bali

2. The Maldives – Paradise on Earth

The Maldives embody absolute luxury. With their overwater bungalows, turquoise lagoons and coral reefs, they are the ultimate destination for a dream honeymoon.

Why choose the Maldives?

• Mythical overwater bungalows
• Crystal-clear lagoons
• Exceptional diving and snorkeling
• Privacy guaranteed
• All-inclusive packages available

Best time to go: November to April (dry season) Estimated budget: €3,500-€6,000 per person (7-10 days) Recommended duration: 7-10 days

👉 Read our practical guide: Honeymoon in the Maldives

3. French Polynesia – The dream islands

Tahiti, Bora Bora, Moorea… French Polynesia is synonymous with luxury honeymoons. Its turquoise lagoons and overwater bungalows make it a legendary destination.

Why choose Polynesia?

• The most romantic islands in the world
• Turquoise and crystal-clear lagoons
• Legendary bungalows on stilts
• Authentic Polynesian culture
• Breathtaking landscapes

Best time to go: May to October (dry season) Estimated budget: €4,000-€7,000 per person (12-15 days) Recommended duration: 12-15 days

👉 Read our complete guide: Honeymoon in French Polynesia

4. The Seychelles – Wild nature and white beaches

The Seychelles offer unspoiled nature with white sand beaches, rainforests, and unique wildlife. Perfect for couples seeking an authentic experience.

Why choose the Seychelles?

• Pristine white sand beaches
• Wild and unspoiled nature
• Unique wildlife (giant tortoises, rare birds)
• Less touristy than the Maldives
• Excellent for diving

Best time to go: April-May, September-October. Estimated budget: €2,500-€4,500 per person (10 days). Recommended duration: 10-12 days

5. Mauritius – The tropical melting pot

Mauritius combines magnificent beaches, Creole culture, lush nature and delicious cuisine. A complete destination for all tastes.

Why choose Mauritius?

• White sand beaches and turquoise lagoon
• Rich Creole culture
• Delicious food
• Various activities (diving, hiking, lagoon)
• Good value for money

Best time to go: April to December. Estimated budget: €1,800-€3,000 per person (10 days). Recommended duration: 10-12 days

6. Sri Lanka – The Island of a Thousand Flavors

Sri Lanka boasts incredible diversity: idyllic beaches, verdant mountains, Buddhist temples, and tea plantations. An ideal destination for adventurous couples.

Why choose Sri Lanka?

• White sand beaches and lagoon
• Green mountains and tea plantations
• Sacred Buddhist temples
• Abundant wildlife (elephants, leopards)
• Very affordable budget

Best time to go: December to March. Estimated budget: €1,000-€1,800 per person (12-14 days). Recommended duration: 12-14 days

7. Indonesia (beyond Bali) – The Hidden Islands

Lombok, Flores, Komodo… Indonesia offers much more than Bali. Discover less touristy, yet equally magnificent islands.

Why choose Indonesia?

• Islands less touristy than Bali
• Spectacular landscapes (volcanoes, lakes)
• Pristine beaches
• Unique fauna (Komodo dragons)
• Very affordable budget

Best time to go: April to October. Estimated budget: €1,500-€2,500 per person (12-14 days). Recommended duration: 12-14 days

8. Mexico – Mayan Cenotes and Beaches

Mexico combines dreamy beaches, Mayan ruins, underground cenotes, and delicious cuisine. A perfect destination for couples seeking adventure and relaxation.

Why choose Mexico?

• White sand beaches (Cancun, Playa del Carmen)
• Magical underground cenotes
• Impressive Mayan ruins
• Delicious food
• Proximity to France (less time difference)

Best time to go: November to April. Estimated budget: €1,500-€2,500 per person (10-12 days). Recommended duration: 10-12 days

9. Thailand – Golden Temples and Paradise Islands

Thailand offers a fascinating mix of Buddhist temples, idyllic islands, and spicy cuisine. A magical and affordable destination.

Why choose Thailand?

• Golden temples and Buddhist culture
• Paradise islands (Phuket, Krabi, Koh Samui)
• Spicy and flavorful cuisine
• Traditional spas and massages
• Very affordable budget

Best time to go: November to February. Estimated budget: €1,000-€1,800 per person (12-14 days). Recommended duration: 12-14 days

10. Zanzibar – The Spice Island

Zanzibar is a magical island with its white beaches, rich Swahili culture, and fascinating history. Perfect for couples seeking authenticity.

Why choose Zanzibar?

• White beaches and turquoise lagoon
• Authentic Swahili culture
• Rich history (spices, trade)
• Less touristy than the Maldives
• Affordable budget

Best time to go: June to October. Estimated budget: €1,500-€2,500 per person (10-12 days). Recommended duration: 10-12 days

11. Japan – Between tradition and modernity

Japan boasts a fascinating contrast between ancient temples, Zen gardens, ultramodern cities, and refined cuisine. A unique destination for curious couples.

Why choose Japan?

• Ancient temples and Zen gardens
• Ultramodern cities (Tokyo, Kyoto)
• Fine dining
• Cherry trees in bloom (spring)
• Unique and fascinating culture

Best time to go: March-May, September-November. Estimated budget: €2,500-€4,000 per person (12-14 days). Recommended duration: 12-14 days

12. Tahiti – Crystal-clear lagoon and verdant mountains

Tahiti is the main island of Polynesia. With its crystal-clear lagoons, verdant mountains, and Polynesian culture, it offers an authentic honeymoon.

Why choose Tahiti?

• Crystal clear lagoon
• Green mountain
• Authentic Polynesian culture
• Less touristy than Bora Bora
• Easy access to other islands

Best time to go: May to October. Estimated budget: €3,000-€5,000 per person (10-12 days). Recommended duration: 10-12 days

13. Greece – Greek Islands and the Mediterranean

Greece offers picturesque islands, spectacular sunsets, and delicious Mediterranean cuisine. Perfect for a romantic honeymoon.

Why choose Greece?

• Picturesque islands (Santorini, Mykonos, Crete)
• Spectacular sunsets
• Mediterranean cuisine
• White sand and pebble beaches
• Moderate budget

Best time to go: June to September. Estimated budget: €1,500-€2,500 per person (10-12 days). Recommended duration: 10-12 days

14. Italy – Romance, Dolce Vita and enchanting landscapes

Italy is the ultimate romantic destination. Between Venice, the Amalfi Coast and Tuscany, it boasts enchanting landscapes and incomparable cuisine.

Why choose Italy?

• Venice and its romantic canals
• spectacular Amalfi Coast
• Tuscany and its vineyards
• Incomparable Italian cuisine
• Rich cultural heritage

Best time to go: April-May, September-October. Estimated budget: €1,500-€2,500 per person (10-12 days). Recommended duration: 10-12 days

15. Costa Rica – Jungle, volcanoes and biodiversity

Costa Rica boasts lush natural beauty with volcanoes, rainforests, beaches, and abundant wildlife. Ideal for adventurous couples.

Why choose Costa Rica?

• Active volcanoes and rainforests
• Exceptional biodiversity
• Black and white sand beaches
• Adventure activities (zip-line, rafting)
• Ecotourism destination

Best time to go: December to April. Estimated budget: €2,000-€3,500 per person (12-14 days). Recommended duration: 12-14 days

Comparative table of the different destinations

Practical tips for choosing your honeymoon destination

1. Consider the flight duration

• Short flight (< 6 hours): Greece, Italy, Morocco
• Average flight time (6-12 hours): Mexico, Egypt, Thailand
• Long-haul flights (> 12 hours): Maldives, French Polynesia, Bali, Japan

2. Consider the time difference

Going to sunny islands always involves a time difference that can affect your honeymoon. Opt for destinations with minimal time difference or plan a few days to adjust.

3. Check the formalities

• Visa required or not
• Recommended vaccines
• Required documents (passport, certificates)

4. Think about safety

Consult the advice of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs before leaving.

5. Book in advance

The best deals can be found 2-3 months before departure, especially during peak season.

Some practical questions to help you choose your destination

What budget should I plan for a honeymoon?

The budget varies from €1,000 to over €10,000 per person depending on the destination and duration. On average, expect to spend €2,000-€4,000 per person for 10-12 days.

What is the best time to go?

It depends on the destination. Generally, the dry seasons offer the best climate. Avoid peak tourist periods for better prices.

How long should a honeymoon last?

Ideally, 10-14 days to fully enjoy your honeymoon without being too tired from jet lag.

Should you go alone or in a group?

A honeymoon is generally a time for just the two of you. Avoid group travel to preserve your privacy.

How to save money on your honeymoon?

• Travel during the off-season
• Book in advance
• Look for all-inclusive deals
• Compare travel agencies
• Consider less touristy destinations

Some useful links

• Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Travel Advice
• World Tourism Organization
• Lonely Planet – Travel Guides
• TripAdvisor – Traveler Reviews
• Booking.com – Accommodations

Sylvain Renan

Editor-in-chief of the Simple & Bon website. A writer passionate about cooking and property renovation in general. I also love to travel and discover new cultures.