The Best Bucket List Getaways for Couples

Japan is so large and varied that it’s hard to recommend one specific city or even region for a bucket-list getaway, but it’s safe to say that you should see as much of the country as you can. Depending on how much time you have, immerse yourself in the hustle and bustle of Tokyo, where you can slurp ramen, admire trendy fashion in Harajuku, and drink in raucous izakayas. To maximize views, perch yourself high over the city in one of the spacious rooms at the Ritz-Carlton Tokyo, the city’s second-tallest building. Then, hop on a bullet train and head south to Kyoto, where life slows down a bit. Here, you can explore the winding alleys and ancient traditions of one of the country’s most beautiful cities. To map out your holiday, check out our story on the top destinations in Japan

Paris is called the City of Love for a reason. From strolling through Montmartre to sneaking a kiss at the base of the Eiffel Tower, there are plenty of opportunities for romance at every turn. For a splurge, stay at Le Meurice

If you love sand and sun, few things spark wanderlust more than overwater bungalows set above crystal clear waters. Climate change has expedited the disappearance of nearly 100 of the country’s 2,000 islands, making this trip more timely than ever. Once you’re there, you can spend your time sunbathing on the deck of your overwater villa (we’re partial those at Gili Lankanfushi

The California coastline is among the world’s most scenic drives as well as one of the most romantic. The famous Highway 1 abuts rocky cliffs, powerful surf, and man-made wonders like the Bixby Bridge in Big Sur. Start your trip in San Francisco and head south, passing through quaint towns like Pacific Grove and Carmel along the way. Stop at the famed Post Ranch Inn

Africa is the quintessential safari destination, especially for those hoping to spot the Big Five. While long days in the bush aren’t necessarily romantic on their own, many of the best safari camps and lodges bring over-the-top luxury to the experience. At andBeyond Xaranna Okavango Delta Camp

Chances are, you’ve stumbled upon those postcard-worthy pics of the Amalfi Coast, which stretches from Positano to Vietri sul Mare. Colorful cliffside buildings, umbrella-lined beaches, world-class restaurants, and of course, stunning views come together here to create a romantic setting, so it's easy to see why this southern Italian region continues to be a popular choice for couples and honeymooners. Even better, many of the hotels feature upscale spas, infinity-edge pools, and luxe amenities. We recommend booking a room that faces the sea, like this one at Il San Pietro di Positano

Stunning islands -- most of which are blessed with beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and idyllic towns -- make Greece a popular vacation choice for romantic twosomes. But with thousands to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start. We recommend Santorini for epic caldera and cliff views, Mykonos for soft sand beaches and late-night parties, and Paros and Naxos for a laid-back pace and tasty harbor restaurants. Corfu, too, is a great option for couples seeking a quiet, amorous getaway. For further options, check out our breakdown of the best Greek Islands

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