5 Best Romantic Hotels for Valentine’s Day You'll Both Love
Discover the 5 most romantic hotels for an unforgettable Valentine’s Day getaway. From Venice to Big Sur, these luxurious escapes redefine romance with stunning views, private dinners, and indulgent spa experiences.
Valentine’s Day is not just another date on the calendar—it’s a moment. It’s a pause from the noise of everyday life, a chance to slow down, reconnect, and celebrate romance in its purest form. While chocolates and flowers are cherished traditions, the gift of a shared experience, a journey to a perfect place where love is the main language, creates memories that last a lifetime. Choosing the best romantic hotels for Valentine’s Day can turn a simple weekend away into an unforgettable experience filled with candlelit dinners, spa days, and intimate moments you’ll remember long after the rose petals are gone.
From iconic cities steeped in history to serene countryside escapes, the most romantic hotels in the world understand that love lives in the details. They masterfully craft an environment where every element—from the private dinners and superior rooms with sweeping views to the full-service spa experiences—is designed to help you and your partner truly unwind. Whether you’re planning a luxurious romantic getaway, a quiet nature retreat, or a stylish urban escape, these five properties set the standard for Valentine’s Day romance.
What Makes the Most Romantic Hotels Truly Romantic?
A truly romantic hotel offers more than just luxury; it creates an atmosphere where time seems to slow, distractions fade, and every experience feels intentional. It's about the feeling you get when you walk through the door—a sense of being transported somewhere special, where the sole focus is on connection and shared joy. These establishments are experts in the art of hospitality, anticipating your needs and adding thoughtful touches that surprise and delight.
A truly romantic hotel offers:
- Beautiful settings: Whether nestled in natural beauty or in the heart of a vibrant city, the location provides a stunning backdrop for your love story.
- Thoughtful amenities: Touches like a late check-out, a chilled bottle of champagne upon arrival, and daily breakfast in bed elevate the experience from standard to special.
- Private spaces: The design emphasizes intimacy, offering secluded spots for private meals, quiet conversations, and moments of connection.
- Exceptional spa services: Spas in these hotels are sanctuaries designed for couples, featuring couple's spa treatments like tandem massages and private relaxation lounges.
- Unforgettable dining: Restaurants go beyond just serving food; they create an ambiance that turns a meal into a cherished memory, complete with candlelight and impeccable service.
The following hotels embody all of this—and more. They are not just places to stay; they are destinations in themselves, promising a Valentine’s Day escape that is nothing short of magical.
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If romance had an address, it would be Venice. And at the heart of this floating city, Hotel Cipriani stands as a timeless monument to love. Situated on the serene tip of Giudecca Island, just a five-minute private boat ride from the bustling St. Mark’s Square, this legendary property offers unparalleled privacy, elegance, and breathtaking views of the lagoon and the Doge's Palace.
A Legendary Romantic Escape
Since its opening in 1958 by Giuseppe Cipriani, founder of the iconic Harry's Bar, Hotel Cipriani has been a sanctuary for romantics, royalty, and Hollywood movie stars. Icons like Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton found solace here, and George Clooney even chose it for his wedding celebrations. The hotel’s history is woven into the very fabric of its walls, creating an atmosphere of classic, old-world glamour. Arriving by the hotel’s private vintage motorboat already feels cinematic, setting the stage for a Valentine’s Day escape unlike any other.
The rooms and suites are masterpieces of classic Venetian style, adorned with Murano glass, antique furniture, and Fortuny fabrics. Even a superior room here feels anything but ordinary, with light-filled interiors, plush king-sized beds, and timeless charm. For an truly indulgent stay, the Palladio Suite offers a 180-degree view of the Venetian lagoon from its private terrace and plunge pool, creating a personal paradise.
Dining, Spa, and Unforgettable Nights
Hotel Cipriani excels in creating moments of culinary and restorative bliss.
- Oro Restaurant: This Michelin-starred restaurant offers a sophisticated dining experience with stunning views of the water.
- Cip’s Club: For a more relaxed but equally enchanting meal, enjoy classic Venetian dishes on a floating terrace that feels like you're dining directly on the Grand Canal.
- Private Dinners: The hotel can arrange candlelit dinners in its historic Casanova Gardens or on a secluded terrace, ensuring a completely private and romantic evening.
- The Casanova Spa: Tucked away in the lush gardens, the spa offers spa treatments for two in a couple’s suite. Imagine a relaxing massage followed by time in a private steam room.
- The Iconic Pool: The hotel boasts the only Olympic-sized swimming pool in central Venice, a magnificent centerpiece filled with filtered seawater. Lounging by the pool with a Bellini in hand is a signature Cipriani experience.
Romantic Activities in Venice
While it’s tempting to never leave the hotel, Venice beckons with endless romantic possibilities. The hotel’s private launch can whisk you away to explore.
- Private Gondola Ride: Glide through the quiet, hidden canals away from the crowds for a truly intimate experience.
- Teatro La Fenice: Attend an opera or ballet at one of the most famous and beautiful opera houses in the world.
- A Bacaro Tour: Discover Venice like a local by hopping between traditional wine bars (bacari) for small bites (cicchetti) and local wine.
For couples who crave intimacy, exclusivity, and a deep sense of history, Aman Venice offers one of the most refined and discreet romantic experiences in the world. Housed in the 16th-century Palazzo Papadopoli, one of the city’s eight monumental palazzos on the Grand Canal, this hotel is a world unto itself.
Romance Inside a Historic Palace
Aman Venice seamlessly blends the grandeur of a historic palace with the serene, minimalist luxury the Aman brand is known for. With only 24 rooms and suites, the atmosphere is more akin to a private, aristocratic home than a hotel. The moment you step into the grand reception hall, with its soaring ceilings and direct water access, you feel a sense of personal welcome. The interiors are a museum-quality collection of Rococo artistry, featuring Tiepolo frescoes, gilded ceilings, and priceless antiques, all thoughtfully preserved.
The suites are expansive, romantic, and filled with art. High ceilings, silk wall coverings, plush beds, and contemporary furnishings create a space that is both opulent and calming. Many suites offer direct views of the Grand Canal, allowing you to watch the gondolas drift by from the comfort of your room. The Alcova Tiepolo Suite is particularly breathtaking, featuring a stunning ceiling fresco painted by the 18th-century master himself.
Intimate Dining and Spa Experiences
Privacy and personalization are the cornerstones of the Aman Venice experience.
- Private Dining: The hotel specializes in creating bespoke dining moments. Enjoy an intimate, candlelit dinner for two in the stunning library, the elegant Stanza del Veronese, or even in the middle of the grand ballroom.
- The Canal Garden: A rare sanctuary in Venice, the hotel’s private garden on the edge of the Grand Canal is the perfect spot for an afternoon aperitivo or a quiet evening sipping champagne under the stars.
- The Aman Spa: Located on the third floor, the spa is a tranquil retreat offering three treatment suites. The spa menu features holistic treatments that can be customized for couples, focusing on relaxation and rejuvenation.
- Personalized Service: The staff at Aman Venice excels at curating unique experiences, from arranging private after-hours tours of the Doge's Palace to organizing a cooking class focused on Venetian cuisine.
Hidden Gems to Explore
From Aman Venice, you are perfectly positioned to discover a more hidden side of the city.
- Libreria Acqua Alta: Visit one of the most unique bookstores in the world, where books are kept in gondolas and bathtubs to protect them from flooding.
- Burano and Murano: Take a private water taxi to the nearby islands of Murano, famous for its glass-making, and Burano, known for its brightly colored houses and lace-making traditions.
- Squero di San Trovaso: Witness the centuries-old craft of gondola building at one of the last remaining boatyards in Venice.
Proving that romance thrives far beyond city lights and sandy beaches, Mohonk Mountain House is a majestic Victorian castle perched on a private glacial lake in the heart of the Hudson Valley. This National Historic Landmark offers a romantic retreat surrounded by pristine nature, where connection happens during a quiet hike, a shared moment by a fireplace, or a peaceful paddle on the water.
A Romantic Retreat Surrounded by Nature
Founded in 1869 by the Smiley family, Mohonk has remained a family-owned resort for over 150 years. Its mission has always been to provide an ideal place for recreation and renewal of body, mind, and spirit. Winter transforms the property into a cozy, romantic wonderland. Imagine ice-skating hand-in-hand on the private rink, snowshoeing through quiet forest trails, or simply watching the snow fall outside your window from a rocking chair.
The rooms, suites, and cottages feature classic, turn-of-the-century charm, many with wood-burning fireplaces and private balconies. Waking up to a view of the glistening Lake Mohonk or the dramatic Shawangunk Ridge feels especially magical. The Grove Lodge, a newer addition, offers luxurious, eco-friendly suites with stone fireplaces, spacious bathrooms with soaking tubs, and expansive private stone patios.
Spa Days, Dining, and Cozy Romance
Mohonk is designed for both adventure and relaxation.
- The Spa at Mohonk: This award-winning, 30,000-square-foot spa is a destination in itself. It features 16 treatment rooms, a solarium with a stone fireplace, an outdoor heated mineral pool, and comprehensive wellness programs. The "Couples Celebration" package includes a signature massage and private time in a relaxation suite.
- Farm-to-Table Fine Dining: With three restaurants, Mohonk focuses on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Your stay includes three daily meals, from hearty breakfasts to elegant dinners.
- Historic Ambiance: The Main Dining Room, with its grand cathedral ceiling and panoramic lake views, offers a timeless setting for a romantic meal.
- Outdoor Activities: The resort is set on thousands of acres of wilderness, with 85 miles of hiking trails for all skill levels. In winter, enjoy cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. In warmer months, activities include rock climbing, horseback riding, boating, and archery.
Romantic Activities in the Hudson Valley
The surrounding Hudson Valley is rich with charm and culture.
- Wine Tasting: Explore the Shawangunk Wine Trail and visit local wineries for tastings.
- Explore New Paltz: The nearby town of New Paltz is filled with quaint shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes.
- Walkway Over the Hudson: Take a romantic stroll across the world's longest elevated pedestrian bridge for stunning views of the Hudson River.
Few places in the world rival the raw, dramatic romance of Big Sur, and Alila Ventana Big Sur elevates that natural beauty into a world-class luxury experience. Perched 1,200 feet above the Pacific Ocean, this adults-only, all-inclusive resort is an enclave of sophistication and serenity, designed for couples to unplug, unwind, and reconnect with nature and each other.
A Romantic Getaway with Sweeping Views
The very essence of Ventana is seclusion and immersion. The property is spread across 160 acres of rolling meadows and redwood forests, offering stunning views of the rugged coastline from nearly every vantage point. The suites and villas are designed to feel like private sanctuaries, many featuring private decks with hammocks, wood-burning fireplaces, and oversized soaking tubs or private plunge pools. The beds are often positioned to maximize the views, making waking up to the morning mist rolling over the ocean and falling asleep to the sound of crashing waves equally magical.
The all-inclusive experience means every detail is taken care of. Gourmet meals, signature wellness activities, and access to all property amenities are included, allowing you to focus entirely on your time together.
Dining, Spa, and Private Moments
Every aspect of Alila Ventana is curated for connection.
- The Sur House: The resort’s signature restaurant offers a menu that celebrates the bounty of California’s Central Coast, with ingredients sourced from local farms. The outdoor terrace provides one of the most breathtaking dining views in the world.
- In-Room Dining and Picnics: Enjoy a gourmet meal on your private terrace or have the resort pack a picnic basket for you to take on a hike.
- Spa Alila: This tranquil spa offers treatments inspired by the natural surroundings. Couples can enjoy a massage in a private cabana in the redwood forest, an experience that is both grounding and deeply romantic.
- Signature Experiences: The resort offers a daily schedule of activities like guided nature walks, yoga classes, tai chi, and photography workshops. The evening s’mores and stargazing experience around a communal fire pit is a guest favorite. If you're looking to explore even more beyond the grounds, check out these top things to do in La Jolla for the ultimate seaside adventure.
- Two Stunning Pools: The Meadow Pool offers expansive ocean views, while the Mountain Pool is a quieter, more secluded spot complete with Japanese hot baths.
Exploring the Magic of Big Sur
Ventana serves as the perfect basecamp for exploring one of America’s most scenic coastlines.
- Pfeiffer Beach: Famous for its purple sand and the iconic Keyhole Rock, this beach is a must-see, especially at sunset.
- McWay Falls: Visit Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park to see this stunning 80-foot waterfall that cascades directly onto the beach.
- Henry Miller Memorial Library: This quirky and beloved cultural center is a bookstore, art gallery, and performance venue that captures the bohemian spirit of Big Sur.
For couples dreaming of a sun-drenched Valentine’s Day with turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and unparalleled luxury, Rosewood Mayakoba delivers romance with exceptional space, privacy, and impeccable service. Located within a private 620-acre eco-resort community, this hotel is a tranquil paradise built along a network of serene lagoons and the Caribbean Sea.
Villas Designed for Romance
At Rosewood Mayakoba, there are no rooms—only suites. Each of the 129 suites is a private villa, accessible by private boat or golf cart, ensuring a feeling of total seclusion. Surrounded by water or lush tropical gardens, these spacious retreats are designed for indoor-outdoor living. Every suite includes a private plunge pool, a rooftop terrace or garden shower, and a spacious terrace overlooking the lagoons or the beach.
Upon arrival at lobby, your personal butler will greet you and handle every detail of your stay, from unpacking your luggage to arranging private dinners and excursions. Thoughtful touches like rose petals on the bed, chilled champagne on ice, and custom-drawn baths turn every stay into a celebration of romance.
Dining, Spa, and Beachfront Bliss
Rosewood Mayakoba offers endless opportunities for romantic indulgence.
- Private Beachfront Dinners: The hotel can arrange a spectacular candlelit dinner for two directly on the beach, complete with a personal server and a custom menu.
- Exceptional Dining Venues: With multiple restaurants, you can savor everything from authentic Mexican street food at La Taqueria to sophisticated coastal Italian cuisine at Casa del Lago.
- Sense, A Rosewood Spa: This spa is located on its own private island. To get there, you cross a bridge, symbolizing a journey to a place of renewal. The spa integrates Mayan healing traditions into its treatments, which can be enjoyed in private couple’s suites.
- Lagoon and Beach Life: Spend your days lounging by one of the resort's infinity pools, relaxing on the private beach where attendants cater to your every need, or taking a kayak out on the lagoons. For more inspiration, explore the top all-inclusive resorts in Cancun for a truly indulgent getaway.
Romantic Excursions in Riviera Maya
The region is rich with culture, history, and natural wonders.
- Explore Tulum Ruins: Visit the ancient Mayan city perched on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea.
- Swim in a Cenote: Discover the magic of the Yucatán’s natural swimming holes—underground caves filled with crystal-clear fresh water.
- Catamaran Cruise: Charter a private catamaran for a day of sailing, snorkeling, and exploring the stunning coastline.
Planning the Perfect Valentine’s Day Hotel Stay
Choosing the perfect romantic hotel is the first step. To make the getaway truly unforgettable, a little extra planning goes a long way.
How to Choose the Right Hotel for You
Consider what kind of romance you and your partner value most.
- For the History and Culture Buffs: If you love art, history, and the energy of a timeless city, Venice is an unparalleled choice.
- For the Nature Lovers: If your idea of romance is quiet connection amidst stunning landscapes, the Hudson Valley or Big Sur will be your paradise.
- For the Beach Worshippers: If you crave luxury, sun, and sea, a private villa resort in Riviera Maya is the answer. If you’re looking for inspiration, check out the best places to travel in May for more vacation ideas.
Discuss your preferences with your partner. Does one of you love adventure while the other prefers to relax by the pool? Look for a destination that offers a balance of both.
Tips for a Flawless Romantic Getaway
- Book in Advance: Valentine’s Day is a peak time for romantic travel. Book your hotel and any special dinner reservations several months ahead to avoid disappointment.
- Communicate with the Concierge: Hotel concierges are experts in creating magical moments. Contact them before your trip to arrange surprises like in-room flowers, a bottle of your partner’s favorite sparkling wine, or a private tour.
- Plan a Surprise: Even if the trip itself isn’t a surprise, plan a small, unexpected element. It could be a pre-booked couple’s massage, a love letter left on their pillow, or a reservation at a restaurant they’ve always wanted to try.
- Balance Your Itinerary: Don’t overschedule your days. The goal is to connect, so be sure to leave plenty of unstructured time for spontaneous moments, lazy mornings in bed, and long conversations.
- Pack for the Occasion: Along with your practical items, pack something special for a romantic dinner or a cozy evening.
Why Romantic Hotels Create Unforgettable Experiences
Romantic hotels don’t just provide a room—they craft an entire world built around connection. From breakfast in bed delivered to your private terrace to intimate meals under the stars, these properties understand that Valentine’s Day is about being present with the one you love. They take care of the details so you can focus on what truly matters: each other.
Whether you’re celebrating new love, a lifelong partnership, or simply the joy of being together, the right hotel transforms a date on the calendar into something truly special. It becomes a part of your story, a memory you’ll return to for years to come.
Final Thoughts: Choosing The Best Romantic Hotels For Valentines Day
The best romantic hotels for Valentine’s Day offer more than luxury—they offer atmosphere, intention, and unforgettable moments. From the private plunge pools of Mexico and the historic grandeur of Venice to the rugged coastline of Big Sur and the tranquil forests of the Hudson Valley, these five hotels represent the very best of romance around the world.
Wherever you choose to stay, let this Valentine’s Day be about slowing down, savoring the moment, and celebrating your love in a beautiful setting designed just for the two of you. 💖