20 Epic Adventures and Dream Destinations for Your Couples Bucket List

Are you researching ideas for your couples bucket list? Discover dream destinations with inspiration for your bucket list of adventures, dreamy coastal escapes, and romantic European cities for getaways?

Discover amazing destinations for your getaways with the perfect amount of adventures for couples balanced with an ambiance of romance.

20 Adventures and Dream Destinations for Your Couples Bucket List

Are you looking for adventure ideas for couples? Maybe you need a weekend getaway as a couple to rekindle the romance.

Or perhaps you are empty nesters who love to travel the world together and want a little adventure as well?

Maybe you are searching for dream destinations for your honeymoon? US News and Travel ranks the top honeymoon destinations around the world. There is no better way to start your marriage than with a little bit of adventure. Start creating your bucket list of adventures today!

Some of these locations bring to mind romance, some adventure, and some simply shout, “Take your picture here!”—famous landmarks, historic cities, or destinations off the beaten path…these destinations are sure to inspire your couples bucket list.

Romantic European Cities

1. Aix-en-Provence, France

Did you know that Aix-en-Provence in the South of France makes a great choice for an off season getaway for an adventurous couple? Plan your visit in the fall or spring and you’ll encounter fewer tourists, temperate weather, and a more relaxed vibe.

Bucket list of adventures to do in Aix-en-Provence:

• Stroll along the Cours Mirabeau.
• Plan your visit around the Christmas Market
• Visit Aix Cathedral
• Explore “Old Aix”
• If you have never had a beignets before, stop by PAUL bakery
• Visit the studio of Paul Cézanne where he worked for the last four years of his life
• Don’t forget Camp des Milles—France’s only World War II internment and deportation camp

After a thorough discovery of Aix-en-Provence, plan for some amazing day trips to villages and towns around Aix-en-Provence. You won’t be disappointed. Rent a car, pack a picnic lunch, and set off along the winding back roads of the French countryside to explore during your adventures as a couple.

Your hotel concierge will be a wealth of knowledge as you plan your days.

2. Florence, Italy

There is just something magical about Florence as a dream destination for getaways and adventure ideas for couples.

Some of the world’s greatest artistic treasures find a home in the museums, palaces, and churches of Florence. Masterpieces from Botticelli, Correggio, Leonardo, Michelangelo, and Raffaello (to name a few Renaissance and 14th-century artists) are featured in the Uffizi Museum. Other treasures include:

• Michelangelo’s David, you will find a replica in the Piazza della Signoria. The original is to be found in the Accademia Gallery.
• The Arno River and the Ponte Vecchio.
• The Corridoio Vasariano runs above the shops along the Ponte Vecchio. Meander across the bridge exploring the shops as you go.
• Set your sites on the Piazzale Michelangelo (Michelangelo Square) lookout point
• Duomo
• Boboli Gardens
• Visit the markets: Mercato Centrale, San Lorenzo Outdoor market, Mercato Nuovo, Mercato Sant’Ambrogio

3. Ghent, Belgium

You may not fully recognize the magic of Ghent, one of my favorite dream destinations, until you emerge from your hotel after a delicious European breakfast of pastries and breads, fruit, sliced meats and cheeses.

Step into a storybook setting of Ghent with the architecture, the canal, the cobbled streets, the smell, and the beautiful sunshine highlighting Korenlei (street) next to the canal in the center of the historic district. The sights and sounds are simply amazing.  

During your visit to Ghent, be sure to see:

• St. Bavo’s Cathedral
• St. Nicholas’ Church
• The canal on a boat tour
• Gravensteen or Castle of the Counts
• St. Michael’s Bridge
• St. Bavo’s Abbey
• Vrijdagmarkt (Friday Market) in the city square
• Old town Ghent in the evening

4. Lucerne, Switzerland

When you add Lucerne, Switzerland to your couples bucket list, you’ll discover some amazing adventures. Adventure ideas for couples?

• Stroll along Kapellbrücke (Chapel Bridge—a famous landmark in Switzerland)
• Explore Old Town
• Hike on Rigi Kulm
• Find the Lion of Lucerne
• Cruise on Lake Lucerne
• Paraglide from Mount Pilatus

Need more ideas? Explore my recommendations for 20 super things to do in Lucerne, Switzerland.

5. Malta

The palm trees and sunshine are a welcome sight in the off season when you explore the Republic of Malta. Chris and I were delighted to find some pretty amazing things to do in Malta and the neighboring island of Gozo.

Be sure to include Malta as one of your coastal escapes.

• Visit the Upper Barrakka Gardens
• Explore Blue Hole at Dwejra on the island of Gozo
• Visit to Marsaxlokk Bay
• Explore the fortress of Mdina
• Snorkel or Dive at the HMS Maori
• Explore the Lascaris War Rooms via tunnels under the Barrakka Gardens
• Ride Horses at Golden Bay
• Explore ruins of the Ggantija Temples on Gozo
• Visit Ta’ Qali Craft Village

6. Milan, Italy

While long considered one of the “fashion capitals” of the world, as the 3rd largest city in Italy, Milan is also thought of as one of the most romantic cities in all of Europe. Perfect for a couples bucket list!

Instagrammable places to see for a dream escape weekend:

• Book a tour to see The Last Supper painting by Leonardo da Vinci
• Tour the rooftop of the Duomo
• Attend a performance at the world-famous Teatro alla Scala or Scala Theatre
• Wander along Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Find the bull mosaic, place your heel inside the hole, and spin 3 times. Tradition says to make a wish and hope it comes true!

My wish? Come back to Italy for more adventure and travel with my husband!

7. Mt. Pilatus, Switzerland

You can experience Pilatus as a day trip or have a truly fantastical couple’s getaway and spend the night at either Hotel Bellevue or the Hotel Pilatus Kulm.

Check availability and Book Hotel Pilatus Kulm

If you plan to visit Mt. Pilatus as a day trip, many tourists ride either the gondola or cogwheel train to the top of Mt. Pilatus and explore, hike, and take pictures. Be sure to check the timetable for the last trip down the mountain each day.

It is a loooooong way down the mountain if you have to hike!

Chris and I stayed at Hotel Pilatus Kulm overnight and LOVED it. It was getting close to the end of the summer season, so when the last Dragon Ride and cogwheel train left the top of Mount Pilatus, the atmosphere was quiet and relaxed.

If you are looking for adventure ideas for couples in dream destinations, how about paragliding from Mt. Pilatus? It was EPIC!

>> Related: Paragliding Switzerland’s Mt. Pilatus: An Epic Adventure for Couples

8. Paris, France

As the City of Love, Paris is often considered to be one of the most romantic dream destinations for couples in the world. Is Paris on YOUR couples bucket list? Not only is Paris great for romance, but it also offers getaways and adventures as a couple for those who love to explore the world together.

Need some ideas and reasons to visit Paris? Discover things to do in Paris during your romantic adventures as a couple:

• Plan to capture Instagrammable places all over Paris
• Visit one of the many churches and cathedrals of Paris
• Stroll hand in hand through the Jardin du Luxembourg
• Spend an afternoon exploring The Louvre
• Book a river cruise along the Seine

>> Related: 15 Dreamy Reasons to Visit Paris

9. Pompeii, Italy

Pompeii has been on my bucket list of adventures before I even knew there were such things as bucket lists.

When deciding on dream destinations in Italy, I highly recommend a visit to Pompeii. Even if you are planning weekend trips in Italy, Pompeii should be one of your destinations.

Chris and I walked into Pompeii and it was… awesome, inspiring, magnificent.

We toured the men’s and women’s ancient baths, the basilica, homes, the colosseum, and the theater, the forum, public toilets, restaurants, bars, and inns.

We spent four hours wandering through the streets of Pompeii and loved every minute of the adventure.

10. Prague, Czechia

No trip to Prague would be complete without visiting the main tourist sites during your adventures as a couple in the land of Bohemia.

• See the Prague Astronomical Clock
• Tour the Prague Castle
• Peruse the Old Town Square
• Walk across the Charles Bridge
• Find the Prague Golden Lane
• Explore Queen Anne’s Summer Palace
• Search for Cocovan on the Střelecký Ostrov under the bridge
• Visit the Jewish Quarter

11. Riquewihr, France

Take time for a detour to one of the most charming European towns in France—Riquewihr.

You will feel as though you are stepping into a fairy tale, which makes it one of the best dream destinations for your couples bucket list.

Riquewihr is encircled by a double fortification wall with ruins of the 13th-century ramparts surrounding a portion of the city. You discover its charm the moment you step through the arched entryway.

The scene before you is delightful and picturesque. Riquewihr is classified as one of the most beautiful villages in France. The allure of Riquewihr can be found in the wandering.

Riquewihr’s main street, the Rue Charles de Gaulle, is lined with Renaissance homes, courtyards, and inviting alleyways. Alleyways that simply invite exploration.

12. Siena, Italy

Siena is a short one hour and 15 minutes bus ride from Florence along a beautiful route skirted with wineries dotting the mountain sides. Bellissimo. Fall in love with the Italian countryside as you find more adventures ideas for couples.

After exiting the bus, you will need to climb up to the Central Square.

There is so much to explore in Siena; purchase the OPA SI Pass and explore all of the museums in the Cathedral Complex:

• Cathedral (with art treasures by Michelangelo, Donatello, and Bernini and its amazing marble-inlay floor)
• Piccolomini Library
• Baptistry of San Giovanni
• Crypt
• Museo dell’Opera
• Panoramic terrace of the Duomo Nuovo (unfinished facade of the cathedral)
• San Bernardino Oratory
• Santa Maria della Scala hospital and museum
• Old Hospital

Plan to climb up to the unfinished facade of the church carefully navigating the narrow circular stairs until the breathtaking view of Siena unfolds around you in 360 degrees of glory. The view is totally worth it and may be a highlight of your bucket list of adventures.

Beach Escapes

13. Cinque Terre, Italy

If you are looking for fun AND romance along with the best things to do in the town of Cinque Terre on a getaway for couples, plan to stay for at least two to three days. Especially if you really want to capture the magic of Cinque Terre… and each other.

7 Awesome adventure ideas for couples in Cinque Terre:

• Sunbathe on the beaches of Monterosso
• Explore all five towns
• Hike from Monterosso to Vernazza
• Enjoy delicious food
• Savor the gelato
• Enjoy the market days
• Book a sunset cruise

14. Cruise to the Caribbean

Hey everyone! Are you ready to soak up some Vitamin Sea?

Scheduling a cruise to the Caribbean offers fun adventure ideas for couples and romantic retreats all in one. Pick your dream destinations to hot and sunny beaches in tropical places. Why should you add adventures at sea to your couples bucket list?

• Couples spa retreat onboard
• Beach escapes for excursions
• Romantic dinners for two in your cabin
• Movie under the stars
• Watch the sunset from your balcony
• Leave love notes for each other
• Adventurous excursions: zipline tours, rafting in Jamaica, snorkeling, jeep tours

15. Moorea, Tahiti

Chris and I recently returned from a dream vacation in Tahiti. It was outstanding, amazing, terrific. All the best adjectives.

We stayed in an overwater bungalow in Moorea and explored the island with this bucket list of adventures:

• Snorkel off the deck of our overwater bungalow
• Visit the Tiki Village Cultural Center
• Rent an e-Bike or scooter to explore the island
• Book snorkel excursions and swim with black tip sharks
• Rent a jet ski
• Hike
• Paddleboard
• Kayak
• Sail

16. Oregon Coast

Any time of year is a stunning time to visit the Oregon coast for fantastic adventures as a couple.

Your days along the coast may simply include strolling hand in hand along the beach for an early morning walk or a quiet afternoon meandering as you look for seashells.

If you are searching for a little more adventure, numerous hikes along the coast are available with varying skill levels. For instance, for an easy 0.5 mile trail, you can hike the Cape Meares Lighthouse Loop just outside of Tillamook, Oregon.

For something a little more vigorous, explore the Cape Meares Beach Trail. It is a 1.5 mile out and back trail. Be sure to check the tide schedule and plan your time on the beach at low tide.

Don’t forget to add a short side trip to the Tillamook Cheese Factory and enjoy a scoop or two of their delicious ice cream… followed by another walk along the beach.

Today, there are just 11 lighthouses that remain along the Oregon Coast. Plan to visit them all or choose a few. If you are in Bandon for the chocolate, the Coquille River Lighthouse is not too far away.

At the end of the day, head back to the beach. There is just something about the crashing of the surf and spectacular sunsets that helps to rekindle connections with your partner…and maybe a little romance.

17. Playa Hermosa, Costa Rica

If you are looking for a beach that IS beautiful, rarely crowded, and a destination with calm ocean waters, Playa Hermosa is the beach for you! You’ll find plenty of vacation rentals and condos a short distance away.

Dig your toes in the sand, sit back and relax as you enjoy the pleasant, tropical climate of Costa Rica.

Adventure ideas for couples in Costa Rica include:

• Hike through the tropical rainforest
• Get a massage
• Go horseback riding
• Hike to a waterfall
• Kayak
• Learn to surf
• Book a sunset catamaran tour
• Snorkel

18. St. John, US Virgin Islands

Whether you are visiting St. John in the US Virgin Islands as a destination or simply on a ship excursion, you will be mesmerized by the beautiful sandy beaches and clear water.

Trunk Beach is a must-see on many couples bucket lists for the beautiful white sand beaches, crystal clear water, snorkeling along the snorkel trail, showers and bathrooms along with food, drinks, and chair rentals. Trunk Bay does have a lifeguard… as well as a minimal entrance fee.

There are a variety of amazing beaches in St. John, but if you have to choose just one for your bucket list of adventures, you won’t be disappointed with Trunk Bay.

River Rafting Adventures

19. Buena Vista, Colorado

If you are a lover of all things outdoors, whether it is hiking, biking or water adventures, Buena Vista has a sport with your name on it.

In fact, all of Colorado is known for its abundant outdoor adventures, great landscapes, epic mountain views, and amazing wilderness areas. Isn’t it about time you add Colorado to your couples bucket list?

If you are looking for something new, exciting and memorable, you can’t go wrong with a white water rafting Buena Vista adventure. Whether you are looking for a gentle beginner rafting adventure through Class I & II white water or a more advanced Class IV technical experience, you can find some of the best white water rafting in USA along the Arkansas River in Buena Vista.

Chris booked our white water rafting adventure on the Numbers—a Class IV section along the Arkansas River. It is considered “advanced”. When we arrived, we found that we were the only two that had signed up for this trip. Score!

20. Wellington, New Zealand

Interested in Class 5 white water rafting? An excursion to the heart of New Zealand for one of the best getaways and adventures as a couple that you could imagine should be on your bucket list.

Not only is the Rangitikei River popular for white water rafting but also for jet boating, kayaking, and fishing.

Experience the exhilaration of class three to class five rapids for two and half hours of fun if you opt for the morning trip, longer if a full day trip is on your schedule.

Don’t forget your sunglasses if you are going to be on the river all day long as well as your sunglass strap to avoid losing your glasses in the river!

Tips for Choosing A Place to Stay for Your Getaways and Adventures as a Couple

Whether you are using reward points to plan your accommodations, booking a hotel room, or planning a stay at a vacation rental, here are a few questions to consider—especially if your dream escape will last longer than a week.

• Is breakfast included?
• Are your accommodations close to the main tourist areas?
• Will you need to rent a car? Is parking included?
• Are you staying within your budget?
• Will you need to do laundry?
• Are you interested in making your own meals?
• How many flights will you have to climb to reach your accommodation (in Europe the first floor is actually on the second level)?
• Is there an elevator in the building?
• Is A/C mentioned in the rental listing? If not, it likely is not included. Is that important?
• Are your accommodations in a safe part of the city?
• Have you checked the cancellation policies for all of your lodgings?

Be sure to read the reviews and do your research to see what previous guests have to say about the accommodations.

Depending upon the length of your stay, you might find yourselves needing to make multiple lodging reservations in multiple cities. If you can, choose a place to stay for 4 to 5 days, explore the area, and then move on to another location.

Ask Each Other Questions on Your Dream Escape

You will find that time together as a couple is time well spent. In fact, print a list of Fun Questions to Ask Your Partner as You Travel to learn something new and spark the conversation.

After one, five, or twenty-five years together, you may be surprised to find out that there are still things you can discover about each other. If you are newly engaged (or even just dating), these questions are perfect for digging deep and covering the questions that are vital to knowing each other.

>> Related: Romantic Instagram Captions for Couples Who Travel

Frequently Asked Questions

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Final Thoughts on 20 Epic Adventures and Dream Destinations for Your Couples Bucket List

If you have ever thought to yourself, “I do believe it is time for another adventure,” consider making plans to go as a couple.

Getaways and adventures as a couple are an exciting way to add a little romance in your life, reconnect with your sweetheart, and explore the world.

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• 20 Epic Adventures for Your Adventure Bucket List