When most people hear the word “honeymoon”, they think beaches, luxury hotels, and, of course, romance. But who says your honeymoon has to mean sand? While it’s true that some of the most popular honeymoon destinations are shoreside resorts in places like Hawaii, Bora Bora, and the Maldives, you’re wedding vows (hopefully) don’t include doing what everyone expects.
That’s not to say that there’s anything wrong with wanting a tropical post-nuptials getaway, but there’s a lot more to see in the world than beaches, and your honeymoon is the perfect opportunity to travel somewhere new and exciting—especially if you’re not a beach person. Are you looking for an unconventional honeymoon destination that’s still beautiful and romantic? Check out this list for some highly underrated vacation spots that will make an amazing backdrop to what are sure to become some of your favorite memories.
Ireland
Celebrate Your Marriage in Style By Heading to Emerald Isle
Spectacular natural beauty, centuries of rich history, lovable accents—what more could you want? Neverending photo ops and an array of things to do make Ireland a lovely and delightful place to spend your honeymoon. From castles and cliffs to stunning landscapes and great beer, Ireland is brimming with sights, culture, and attractions.
Here are some of our top places to hit:
-Dublin
-Cliffs of Moher
-Kilkenny
-Dingle Peninsula
Alaska
Experience Wilderness, Wildlife, and Tons of Adventure When You Go to the Last Frontier
Whether you’re a nature lover, outdoors enthusiast, someone who appreciates an awesome view, or all three, you’ll love exploring the infinite majesty of Alaska on your honeymoon. With activities like hiking, whale watching, horseback riding, dog mushing, and ice skating (just to name a few), you and your spouse will have plenty to do and tons of photos to show your friends and family when you return stateside.
Here are our top places to hit:
-Anchorage
-Denali National Park
-Seward
-Fairbanks
Japan
Leave Your Heart in the Land of the Rising Sun
From bullet trains to high-tech toilets, Japan is a land of innovation that nonetheless maintains deep ties to its past. See everything from ancient temples to the world’s busiest pedestrian crossing when you and your partner journey to this historic island nation. Enjoy the warmth of Japanese hospitality as you navigate the incredibly diverse components of the Pacific beauty.
Here are our top places to hit:
-Toyko
-Kyoto
-Nara
-Mount Fuji
Croatia
Beauty, History, and Enchantment Galore
Not only is Croatia’s stunning scenery perfect for pictures, but it’s also great for romance. From Old World artifacts and waterfalls to scuba diving and pebble beaches, this fun-filled wonderland will never fail to amaze you (or leave you unoccupied). Museums, carnivals, hiking, kayaking, and swimming are just a few of the ways that you can enjoy the Mediterranean nation and all it has to offer.
Here are our top places to hit:
-Dubrovnik
-Plitvice Lakes National Park
-Zadar
-Rovinj
Finland
Escape to the Land of the Thousand Lakes
With scenery that’s to die for and a wide range of activities that guarantees something for everyone, Finland is a honeymoon spot that will leave you with no semblance of regret (even if you visit during the notoriously long and dark winter season). Find peace among nature by plucking ripe berries in the forest or marvel from a sleigh as you’re pulled through the snow by a reindeer—whatever you do, you and your partner will want to come back to this peaceful land of variety.
Here are our top places to hit:
-Helsinki
-Tampere
-Porvoo
-Lapland
Start Your New Life with an Unforgettable Trip
What better way to begin your marriage than with a one-of-a-kind experience in an amazing place? We’re not saying the Dominican Republic or Bermuda aren’t fantastic honeymoon spots, but if you’re not sure where you want to go to celebrate the start of your new life together, there are other options in addition to the “traditional” destinations. These five places might be slightly offbeat for a honeymoon, but they definitely won’t disappoint!
This is a sponsored post in partnership with Nakturnal.
