Travelling to date is on the rise, according to Skyscanner’s 2026 trends. If you’re already coupled up, there’s something magical about escaping the everyday with someone you love.
Whether you’re wandering through cobbled streets, sipping cocktails by the sea or enjoying a lazy morning, the right choices can turn a short getaway into a core memory. Here are some ways to plan a trip that feels personal and perfectly suited to you.
Choose a setting that matches your vibe
Start by thinking about what matches your shared personality. Do you thrive on buzzing city energy or the calm of a quiet beach, for example?
If you love tucking into culture and food together, a Lisbon city break is a brilliant choice. Its pastel streets, riverside views and nightlife give you plenty of ways to mix romance with adventure.
Alternatively, for slow mornings and sunset strolls, look for coastal spots where the pace is gentler. The BBC predicts more travellers will prioritise ‘quiet over everything’ this year.
Balance discovery and downtime
It’s tempting to pack your itinerary with sights and activities, but a romantic holiday should leave space for spontaneity.
Plan one or two experiences you’re excited about, like a wine tasting or a sunset cruise, and keep much of the rest open. This way, you can wander without pressure, linger in cafés that catch your eye or simply enjoy lazing by the pool. Striking this balance means you’ll return home feeling refreshed rather than rushed.
Add surprise elements
A little unexpected effort goes a long way in a relationship. You could book a table at a rooftop restaurant without telling your partner or arrange for a secret spa treatment at the hotel. These gestures don’t need to be extravagant, by any means ‒ you just need to show thought.
Surprises create moments that feel special because they break from routine. Think about what they’d love most and weave it into the trip quietly.
Communicate like a team
Travel can turn stressful when expectations clash, so talk openly before you go. Discuss what each of you wants, whether it’s exploring museums or lounging on the beach, and agree on a rough plan.
During the trip, keep checking in with each other. If one of you feels tired or wants to change plans, try to adapt together. This keeps the mood light and ensures both of you feel heard ‒ which is the real secret to a smooth getaway.
You don’t always need elaborate plans or picture-perfect moments. Instead, focus on choices that reflect who you are as a couple. With that mindset, you create a trip that brings you closer, not just because it looks romantic on paper, but because it feels genuine.
