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Author: Iulian Milcomete

Young couple sitting on a bench overlooking the snowy mountains and green valleys of the Bernese Oberland, one of the best Switzerland honeymoon destinations

3 Switzerland Honeymoon Destinations

 

While many couples wish to spend their honeymoons soaking up the sun on a sandy beach, it isn’t for everyone. Switzerland certainly isn’t know for its beaches, but its fascinating landscape and charming cities make for undoubtedly romantic adventures, no matter the time of year. Whether you’re looking to hit the slopes or stay curled up by a fire gazing out at snowy mountain tops, these Switzerland honeymoon destinations are also the perfect capstone to a winter wedding for those not afraid of a little chill.

 

Aerial view of the medieval city of Thun in Switzerland's Bernese Oberland with a lake and snow-capped mountains in the background

© Prasit Rodphan | Dreamstime.com

 

1) Bernese Oberland

 

For the couple who has spent many dates hiking, skiing or snowboarding, a honeymoon in the Bernese Oberland would be the perfect homage to your relationship. This region is home to countless treks with any scenery you could ask for, from castles perched on the banks of bright blue lakes to waterfalls cascading from jagged mountains. Ski resorts pepper the entire region, providing you easy access to some of the best slopes in the world by day and a luxurious, cozy place to retreat to at night.

 

Though the trails and slopes are considered highlights of the Bernese Oberland, this is also one of the best Switzerland honeymoon destinations for those with a mellower trip in mind. You can experience a lot of those same mountain views by letting one of the iconic red cogwheel trains carry you to the top, you could stroll through rustic towns with all kinds of amazing shops and restaurants or take a refreshing dip in your hotel’s indoor pool and follow it up with a massage at the spa.

 

Aerial view of Zermatt, Switzerland with at sunset with the Matterhorn and surrounding snowy mountains rising out of the background

© Maksim Zabarovskii | Dreamstime.com

 

2) Zermatt

 

In Zermatt, all roads lead to the Matterhorn, one of the most recognized peaks around the world. While you could choose to check off a bucket list item together by climbing to the summit, it’s much more common to simply take advantage of the abundant surrounding trails lined with stunning views of it. There are so many trails that everyone from the most avid hikers to leisurely walkers have an array of options to choose from. And for those who really don’t wish to go by foot, as with almost everywhere in Switzerland, there’s a cogwheel train to fill that gap.

 

Rest up from days out on the trails at one of the numerous resorts and spas, and when you need a day off you could venture to Sion. Sion is the perfect romantic day trip, with castles perched on hilltops amidst an alpine backdrop and vineyards that produce underrated white wine just waiting for tastings.

 

Bridge spanning a river in Lucerne, Switzerland with medieval buildings lining both sides

© Olga Demchishina | Dreamstime.com

 

3) Lucerne

 

Lucerne is one of the best Switzerland honeymoon destinations for those whose goal after their wedding is to unwind as much as possible before returning to their regular lives. Everything you could want is centered around Lake Lucerne, meaning you wouldn’t have to spend precious days traveling around the country. You could stay in the town of Lucerne to get the most out of its medieval allure, or in a resort up in the mountains for the utmost tranquility and pampering.

 

This area is less about scaling mountains and more about admiring them from a distance. But if you’d still like to reach the top of a mountain, you can reach the summit of Mount Pilatus by foot, cogwheel railway or cable car. From there you’ll have sprawling views of Lake Lucerne and the surrounding Alps. And if you haven’t quite had your fix of fondue, you can actually dine in a cable car while taking in the same amazing sights.

 

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Aerial view of the small city of Provins, France with a large wall forming a boundary along one side and greenery and stone buildings in the center

Provins, France: Off The Beaten Path

 

If you’re looking for a day trip from Paris that isn’t Versaille, the charming medieval town of Provins is a beautiful spot for an afternoon of open-air exploration, historical importance and local treats! Stroll through this UNESCO World Heritage site, visiting Caesar’s Tower, the stone Tithe Barn and the original timber houses with thatched roofs and colored shutters.

 

Walk around the intimidating fortified walls before heading through the grand Saint-Jean gateway and into the center of the historic town. Here, you’ll find shops with local delicacies including “brie de Provins,” niflettes (puff pastry cakes filled with cream), and pink confectionaries including rose petal jam, or rose honey. Some of the shops are closed to the public, but instead sell their sweets and goods out their windows!

 

Stone houses with wooden medieval trim and bright reds flowers in planter boxes below the windows

© Bensliman HassanDreamstime.com

 

Continuing on, you’ll find the Tithe Barn which was once used as a market and hosted an annual trade fair, as Provins was once a major trade hub in medieval France. from there, seek out Caesar’s Tower: an octagonal tower built in the 12th century where visitors can climb to the top and savor the view of the town. Some additional monumental stops include: Maison Romane (one of the oldest buildings in Provins that contains a museum featuring collections of sculptures, pottery and religious relics), as well as the picturesque Old Hospital and Holy Spirit Cellar.

 

Known throughout the centuries as home to the largest fairs in the region, Provins holds onto that reputation today. Every June, the city hosts a medieval fair to celebrate the traditions of the past, featuring games, food and costumes typical of the medieval times. Please note, the hosting weekend varies per year.

 

Featured image: © Leonid AndronovDreamstime.com

 

Hvar lavender fields at sunset with the sea and mountains in the distance

Hvar Lavender Fields, Croatia: Off The Beaten Path

 

Most people associate lavender fields with France, thanks to the purple rolling hills across the Provence region, from the Valensole Plateau to the Luberon Valley. Not many people would even guess that Croatia has any lavender fields at all, let alone on an island not far off the coast from Split or Dubrovnik, Hvar. Despite often being nicknamed the “Lavender Island”, Hvar is best known for its beaches and stone fortresses, leaving these fields as a hidden gem of sorts in Croatia.

 

Just 50 years ago, these fields accounted for 8% of of the world’s lavender production, but since then emigration and forest fires have severely shrunk the once booming industry. Now going through a revival period, the sight of these colorful shrubs with the turquoise Adriatic Sea in the background remains something truly special.

 

Each June, a Lavender Festival is held in the village of Velo Grablje, where unique treats and souvenirs like lavender-flavored ice cream and lavender honey become more abundant in celebration. With a more active role, you can discover the freshest lavender oil you’ll ever encounter by following it through the harvesting and distilling process. This festival is also important to the revival of the fields, bringing them needed money and attention.

 

Featured image: © Rostislav_sedlacek | Dreamstime.com

 

Pinkish flowers in the foreground with the sandy Praia do Camilo in Portugal surrounded by jagged golden cliffs in the middle ground leading to blue ocean

10 Most Magnificent Beaches in Europe

 

You don’t need the Caribbean in order to have a sun-soaked beach getaway. While Europe is often most lauded for its cuisine and culture, it also boasts countless stretches of dreamy coastline. These are the ten best beaches in Europe to make a splash or kick back and let the waves be your gentle soundtrack, all with their own signature scenery.

 

View overlooking Myrtos Beach in Kefalonia, Greece, a white beach horseshoed in by rocky greenery around light blue water

© Lucianbolca | Dreamstime.com

 

1) Myrtos Beach – Kefalonia, Greece

 

The Ionian Islands are known for their spectacular beaches, and Kefalonia’s Myrtos Beach is often hailed as the best of in all of Greece. Spend the day lounging on the pebbly shore or taking a dip in the electric blue waters, before heading up to one of the viewpoints to watch the sunset over the horseshoe of rocky cliffs surrounding the beach.

 

The white cliffs and pinkish sand leading up to the waters of Scialara Beach, one of the best beaches in Europe

© Tagstiles | Dreamstime.com

 

2) Scialara Beach – Puglia, Italy

 

Hallmarked by its giant stone monolith, known as “Pizzomunno”, and matching white cliffs, Scialara Beach in Puglia easily stands out from the other best beaches in Europe. In addition to being mythical and incredibly picturesque, the long stretch of flat, shallow shoreline is perfect for a leisurely walk on the beach. And although it’s located in Italy, the legend of how Pizzomunno was formed sounds more like one of the many tragic love stories in Greek mythology. The story goes that Pizzomunno was a target of the sirens who stayed true to his lover, Cristalda, and never gave into their temptation. In retribution, the sirens pulled Cristalda down to her death in the depths of the sea and transformed Pizzomunno into the monolith found there today.

 

Steps leading down to the rocky Praia do Camilo in Algarve, Portugal at sunrise

© Daliu80 | Dreamstime.com

 

3) Praia do Camilo – Algarve, Portugal

 

Climbing down 200 steps with the knowledge that you’ll have to make a return trip eventually may not sound like the greatest start to a day on the beach, but Portugal’s Praia do Camilo is well worth the workout. It doesn’t hurt that you’ll have an amazing view the whole way down. Praia do Camilo is exemplary of the wondrous rock formations that have brought the Algarve region so much attention, with pillars and archways as golden as the sand between your toes.

 

Chia Beach in Sardinia, Italy, made of golden sands and clear blue waters with trees and mountains in the distance

© Toldiu74 | Dreamstime.com

 

4) Chia Beach – Sardinia, Italy

 

South Sardinia is comprised of one gorgeous beach after another, but Chia Beach proves itself as one of the best. The fine sands and crystal waters speckled with greenery look more like something you’d expect out of the Caribbean than one of the best beaches in Europe. If you’re lucky, you may even spot some flamingos or dolphins nearby.

 

Aerial view of Voidokilia Bay on one side of a strip of beach with Gialova Lagoon on the other where Voidokilia Beach in Greece, one of the best beaches in Europe, is found

© Elgreko74 | Dreamstime.com

 

5) Voidokilia Beach – Peloponnese, Greece

 

Voidokilia Beach is one for the nature lovers. Though the gentle waves and soft sand are alluring enough, its location might be its most standout feature. The beach sits on a narrow strip of land bordered on one side by Voidokilia Bay, and on the other side by Gialova Lagoon, a natural habitat for over 270 species of birds and reptiles. Located in Pilos of the Peloponnese, Voidokilia Bay is also believed to be the “sandy Pylos” mentioned in Homer’s Odyssey.

 

Aerial view of the city of San Sebastian and its beaches lining Concha Bay with a rocky green island in the middle of the water

© Thomas Dutour | Dreamstime.com

 

6) Playa de Ondarreta – San Sebastian, Spain

 

As the smaller strip of sandy coast lining the stellar Concha Bay, Playa de Ondarreta is the more tranquil counterpart to popular Playa de La Concha. Families often favor Ondarreta for its wealth of activities, from playgrounds to kayak rentals. If you wish to visit both, it’s easy to hop between the two through the short tunnel lined with nautical artwork that connects them. The paradise found in tight proximity to downtown San Sebastian, Spain is what leads these to be considered two of the best urban beaches in Europe.

 

Cape Tigani bridged to mainland Crete by a strip of beach with blue water on either side

© Vitalii Mamchuk | Dreamstime.com

 

7) Balos Beach – Crete, Greece

 

Not only is Balos Beach a sight to be had as it spans the gap from mainland Crete to the Tigani Peninsula, but the lagoon also provides ideal conditions for a beach day in Greece. The sand is soft, perfect for laying out a towel, and the water is warm and welcoming. And no matter if you choose to reach the beach by the short hike in from the car park or by ferry, you will be provided with amazing views of this truly unique space.

 

Grassy rocks surrounding the beige sand and blue ocean of Porthcurno Beach in the United Kingdom

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8) Porthcurno Beach – Cornwall, United Kingdom

 

When people think of the best beaches in Europe, the United Kingdom doesn’t often come to mind. But Porthcurno Beach is paradise in a land known for dreary weather, with its white sands, turquoise waters and granite cliffs. Finish out a relaxing day on the beach with a quick trip up to the Minack Theatre, carved into the cliffs and home of fantastic views of Porthcurno Bay.

 

V-shaped white sand beach of Zlatni Rat, one of the best beaches in Europe, jutting out from the right side, speckled with green trees and beach chair and umbrellas leading out toward blue water that gets darker the farther it is from the sand

© Biletskiy | Dreamstime.com

 

9) Zlatni Rat – Brac, Croatia

 

Coupled with unbelievably blue waters, Zlatni Rat’s unique v-shape formed by sea and wind currents makes it stand out among the array of outstanding beaches speckled throughout Croatia. The same conditions that formed Zlatni Rat are also constantly changing its form, albeit very slowly. If you’re looking to spend your day doing more than just lounging, this is also one of the best beaches in Europe to try snorkeling or windsurfing.

 

Clear blue water with beige rocks and trees in the background at Palombaggia in Corsica, France

© Eva Bocek | Dreamstime.com

 

10) Palombaggia – Corsica, France

 

Found in the sea between France and Italy, the island of Corsica is famous for its clear waters and luscious sands. Among a multitude of beaches, Palombaggia is often considered a step above. The diverse terrain splashed with pine trees and reddish rocks makes for a very photogenic environment, and the warm, shallow waters are perfect for a light swim or some snorkeling.

 

Featured image: © Marius Dorin Balate | Dreamstime.com

 

Bright pink peonies in Jardin de Los Frailes growing along the stone wall of San Lorenzo de El Escorial

Jardin de Los Frailes, Spain: Off The Beaten Path

 

The town of San Lorenzo de El Escorial is most known for its royal monastery, built under the reign of King Philip II, who also wanted it to serve as a palace and a burial place for his father. Construction took over twenty years with multiple additions made along the way, adding up to the massive structure that soars out of the mountains. Since 1984, both the monastery and much of its surrounding territory has been a UNESCO World Heritage site. While the inside of the monastery is famed for its Renaissance art and awe-inspiring library, the Jardin de Los Frailes that lines the outside is equally stunning.

 

Maze-like hedges of Jardin de Los Frailes in the foreground with the massive beige monastery of San Lorenzo de El Escorial in the background

 

Hedges carved in maze-like patterns are spread around this garden, offering fantastic views of not only the monastery, but also of Madrid’s sprawling Sierra de Guadarrama. For a pop of color in late spring and early summer, bright pink peonies bloom along the stone walls and blue pools of water reflect the sunny Spanish sky. Tours can sometimes crowd the inside of the monastery, but the Jardin de Los Frailes doesn’t suffer the same problem, as many groups skip over the outside areas almost entirely. Free to enter, the garden is quiet and spacious, with an ideal landscape that masterfully blends architecture and nature.

 

Rear view of a young couple sitting on a ledge with their arms wrapped around each other, overlooking Dubrovnik and the Adriatic Sea

3 Croatia Honeymoon Destinations

 

While parts of Croatia have begun to take off as travel hotspots, overall it continues to fly under the radar as a coastal paradise speckled with awe-inspiring fortresses. The allure of this underrated honeymoon spot knows no bounds. Whether you prefer to spend time together lounging on a beach or touring charming old towns, these Croatia honeymoon destinations have you covered. To top it all off, you’ll be able to end each night with a romantic dinner over some of the best wine and seafood in the Mediterranean.

 

Deep blue bay surrounded by a fortress atop a hill on the left, a rocky green hill in the middle and stone buildings with red roofs on the right in Dubrovnik, one of the most popular Croatia honeymoon destinations

© Scott JonesDreamstime.com

 

1) Mainland Dalmatia

 

The mainland of Croatia’s Dalmatia region is home to some of the country’s most popular destinations, such as Dubrovnik and Split. These cities skyrocketed to fame after they were featured as filming locations for Game of Thrones, and they’ve continued to entice visitors with the charm of signature red-roofed buildings and shimmering blue waters. It’s the perfect place to cap off a wedding that was, hopefully, not very red. Dip your toes in along golden shores or charter a yacht for the day and skim along the waves to the Elaphiti Islands.

 

When you want to escape the bustle of a city, you can venture to the Peljesac peninsula for local wine tastings and delightfully fresh meals in tiny fishing villages. If you’re a fan of oysters, they’re a must-try delicacy here. While this area could be easily summarized in a day trip, it’s worth spending a couple of nights to thoroughly explore the quieter scenery, whether that means strolling along fortress walls or tucking yourselves away in secluded coves of pebbly beaches. For the couple itching for an outdoors adventure, consider conquering the summit of Sveti Ilija together. From here you not only will be able to take in the many islands of Croatia spread out below, but if it’s a clear enough day you may also see Italy across the Adriatic Sea.

 

Clear water on and rocky shore in the foreground with two small boats on the right leading out an inlet between two beige cliff in Stiniva Bay on Vis island, one of the unique Croatia honeymoon destinations

© XbrchxDreamstime.com

 

2) Dalmatian Islands

 

The Dalmatian Islands have everything you could want in an island honeymoon and more. Hvar, Korčula and Brač are the three most popular islands, thanks to their abundance of gorgeous beaches and delightful stone towns. There are a plethora of other islands to choose from, ensuring that the two of you will be able to balance your honeymoon with activities to suit both your interests. But if you’re looking to celebrate amidst lively nightlife, a few nights on Hvar are a must. Glitzy and glamorous but still seeping with old town charm, this island is becoming somewhat of an answer to France’s St. Tropez.

 

For a truly unique experience, spend some time on Vis, a former military base that has only been open to tourists since 1989. This helped to preserve the area, leaving much of its natural beauty intact. Relatively popular with day-trippers looking to check out Stiniva Bay or the Blue Cave, staying overnight here is less common and will allow you more freedom as the sun sets.

 

Vineyards in the foreground with a town perched on a hill in the distance in Istria, Croatia

© RibicaDreamstime.com

 

3) Istria

 

If you’ve been amazed and astounded by Italy, Istria is calling for you. Just like in Tuscany or Piedmont, you can have a romantic outing of wine tasting, olive oil tasting or truffle hunting through a luscious green landscape. If you really want to marvel upon another impressive colosseum, Pula can provide that for you. If you miss the colorful coastal towns of the Cinque Terre, allow the city of Rovinj to lure you in. And if you’ve missed Italy so badly that you’re dying to spend any small amount of time there again, Venice is reachable in a day trip.

 

As enticing as the similarities may sound, Istria still has its own Croatian flavor, from more iconic red roofs to an intricate overlap of histories on display. The region is home to an abundance of small towns, each with their own personality, that you can set out on day trips to. Or you can use the peninsula as a base for aquatic excursions to Lim Fjord or the Brijuni Islands. If thrill-seeking is your love language, there no shortage of options, whether you wish to paraglide over the countryside or rappel down into mysterious caves. Though sandy beaches are harder to come by here, this diversity of other activities Istria has to offer makes it one of the ideal Croatia honeymoon destinations.

 

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The amphitheater of Delphi in the foreground with the Temple of Apollo in the middle ground and mountains in the background

Temple of Apollo, Greece: Off The Beaten Path

 

With a controversial and highly polarizing history, the Oracle of Delphi, otherwise known as Pythia, made quite the reputation at the Temple of Apollo. Shrouded in mystery, magic, and occult activity, the temple of oracles now lay in ruins; it is the perfect place to explore the mysteries of the ancient world and the superstitions that swirled within it.

 

Built and rebuilt several times throughout the centuries, the Temple of Apollo has had a rocky past. One of which centered around the high priestess and oracle Pythia that was established in the 8th century BC, and was known for hallucinations, frantic oracles, and trances.

 

According to some sources, the Pythia would sit on a perforated tripod centered over a fissure in the rock which would emit sweet smelling gasses from the earth; these fumes would send the Pythia into an altered state of mind and physicality in which she could deliver her oracle. With low doses of the gases, the Pythia would remain calm and deliver her thoughts, which were said to be the direction of the gods. With high doses, the Pythia would move into a frenzied state, thrashing about, wildly screeching, and chanting.

 

Although the science behind the chasm fumes have been highly debated over the years, the Temple of Apollo is an incredible place to explore, learn, and reflect on the practices of the ancient world. You may not find the chasm with mysterious fumes, but you’re sure to be amazed by the architecture, layout, and spectacular views of this ancient temple.

 

Featured image: © Emicristea | Dreamstime.com

 

Bright blue flowers in the foreground with the stone buildings of Castello Aragonese surrounded by bright blue water in the middle ground

Castello Aragonese, Italy: Off The Beaten Path

 

Suspended between air and sea, Castello Aragonese is a city in the sea. Sitting atop a volcanic rocky islet protruding from the northern end of the Gulf of Naples, the Aragonese Castle offers incredible views of the island of Ischia, as well as a cultural and historical perspective of rebirth.

 

Take the Path of the Sun along the rim of the islet and follow it through rich vegetation of olive trees, pomegranates, prickly pears and figs, for a panoramic view of nearby islands. Next, visit the Church of Saint Maria Dell Grazie, or the Church of the Madonna Della Libera for a spiritual experience above the sparkling aquamarine waters. From there, head to the House of the Sun, where remnants of homes dating to various eras are preserved as valuable architectural structures.

 

Small beige stone church with a tall black cross next to it and ocean in the background

© Marius Dorin Balate | Dreamstime.com

 

Originally built in 474BC by Hiero I of Syracuse, the castle was built as a military point to monitor enemy fleets. Over the centuries, the islet was captured and recaptured by Parthenopeans, Romans, pirates, the British, as well as the French, until it was sold to a private owner, the Mattera Family in 1912. The Mattera Family still owns the property and has revitalized the islet, bringing together the history, culture, and art of the castle.

 

Over 25 centuries, the Aragonese Castle has been home to convents, churches, prisons, and lush gardens; it is now building on that history as a sought out spot for globe trotters and locals alike. From rooftop restaurants to summer concerts, theatrical performances, and film festivals, there is no shortage of entertainment within Castello Aragonese.

 

Featured image: © Marius Dorin Balate | Dreamstime.com

 

Where Can I Travel to Now?

 

Baby, it’s cold outside! And while we’re all kind of bored of being inside, you may be asking yourself, “Where can I travel to now?” As a matter of fact, there are some pretty good options! Three of our all time favorite Caribbean islands are open to American visitors with a negative Covid test at either end of your trip. They each have slightly different regulations which we can help you navigate. But the good news is that you can still have some wonderful experiences – snorkeling, scuba diving, jungle hiking, ATV tours, cycling, fine dining – and all three have a complimentary kids’ club.

 

While we’re better known for our expertise in Europe, we’ve been sending clients to the Caribbean for years, with great success!

 

By booking with WAC Travel you will receive the full VIP treatment – free room upgrade subject to availability, complimentary breakfast, $100 resort credit, early check-in and late check-out. Each island has a different personality, activities, and scenery as described below – if you are finding it too hard to make a decision, let’s hop on a call to discuss.

 

Narrow pool lined with table in chairs in the foreground leading towards a sandy coast wrapping around blue water with white buildings in the distance

© Belmond

 

1) Belmond Cap Juluca, Anguilla

 

Fresh from a $121 million renovation, and newly acquired by Louis Vuitton, Belmond Cap Juluca may be the jewel in the crown of the Caribbean. The accommodations are all spread out along the pristine powder white sand beach. From sailing lessons to kayaking through hidden coves and bays, there’s no end of thrilling things to do in Anguilla.

 

Sandy beach lined with umbrellas and lounge chairs and several boats in the water with a green mountain in the background

© Viceroy

 

2) Viceroy Sugar Beach, St Lucia

 

Set amidst more than 100 acres of tropical rainforest, and nestled between the majestic Pitons – the Viceroy Sugar Beach has a sensational location. There are two sandy beaches, a spa with tree house treatment rooms, a full PADI dive facility, and superb waterfront dining. Rooms have a private plunge pool, and activities include hiking the Pitons, and ATV rides through the jungle.

 

Aerial view of a white sand beach with light blue water

© The Shore Club

 

3) The Shore Club, Turks & Caicos

 

Defined by a spirit of relaxation and adventure, The Shore Club is set on Long Bay Beach, a stunning, secluded beach minutes away from Provo’s town center. An indulgent spa, four pools, three restaurants, luxurious accommodations, and breathtaking views elevate the resort experience. Guests are also free to explore the islands’ restaurants and beaches, or partake in snorkeling and scuba diving trips.

 

Featured image: © Vadim NefedovDreamstime.com

 

Young couple looking out over the white-washed buildings along the caldera in Oia, Santorini, one of the most popular Greece honeymoon destinations

3 Greece Honeymoon Destinations

 

Since the days where offerings were made to Aphrodite and Eros, Greece has been a haven of romance. Couples have long flocked to this magnetic land to celebrate their marriages, and with good reason. With endless fabulous Greece honeymoon destinations, the issue lies less in finding somewhere desirable and more in narrowing down your options. Sticking to only one or two regions can help, so here we’ve listed a few of our favorite spots to cozy up with your new spouse.

 

White-washed street of Mykonos with colorful doorways and window frames

© EmicristeaDreamstime.com

 

1) Cyclades Islands

 

Hallmarked by dazzling sunsets over white-washed architecture, the Cyclades Islands have long been one of the most world-renowned Greece honeymoon destinations. These islands are less about hopping from one tour to another to sightsee, and more about taking in the scenery immediately around you.

 

Toast to your marriage while overlooking the caldera of Santorini and continue celebrating amidst the energetic nightlife of Mykonos. Or charter a boat for the day and familiarize yourself with the Aegean Sea by cruising along its waves or diving right in. Round out your time in the Cyclades with less-frequented islands like Naxos and Paros. While they may not have the blue domes or windmills of Santorini and Mykonos, the streets of Naxos and Paros still have that uniquely Cycladic charm and their sandy beaches are perfect for lounging on the beach together in peaceful quiet.

 

Hill of the Acropolis in the distance with the ruins of the Parthenon perched at the top

© Constantinos Kollias | Unsplash

 

2) Ancient Greece

 

For history buffs, Ancient Greece is home to a wide array of must-visit destinations. Athens alone is an archaeological wonder, with the Parthenon looming over the city atop the Acropolis leading down into various agoras, temples, and museums throughout the city. While many couples simply use Athens as a stopover to reach their island honeymoon, there’s a lot of merit to be had in venturing further into Greece’s mainland.

 

Even those who couldn’t care less about ancient history will fall in love with all that Ancient Greece has to offer. This kind of honeymoon may not tend as heavily toward golden coastlines, but there is certainly no lack of stunning scenery, from the monasteries perched in the cliffs of Meteora to the mystical ruins of Delphi. But if some time spent lounging on a beach is a necessity for you, consider Nafplion, often dubbed the most romantic destination in Greece, where massive fortresses and a charming Old Town don’t lie too far from beaches beloved by weekending Athenians.

 

Greenery surrounding a bright blue bay with umbrella-speckled beaches around the coast in the Ionian islands, one of the less-trafficked Greece honeymoon destinations

© MilosducatiDreamstime.com

 

3) Ionian Islands

 

If one of your ideal Greece honeymoon destinations consists of waterfront relaxation but you’re looking for something different from the Cyclades, the Ionian Islands serve as a wonderful, and less traveled, alternative. Gorgeous beaches are a staple of all the islands, but each has something different to offer, and it’s merely a matter of combining the ones that best meet your needs.

 

Discover a unique shipwreck on Zakynthos, stroll hand in hand through the cosmopolitan streets of Corfu, enjoy romantic dinners along the seafront of Lefkada, or delve into the mythological origins of Ithaca, Odysseus’s home. If getting as far off the grid as possible is your priority, the islands of Kythira and Meganisi are a little more of a hassle to reach, but for this reason see almost no tourist traffic, even in high season.

 

Featured image: © SantorinesDreamstime.com