The craziness of wedding planning and parties has come to an end, and it’s finally time to relax on a romantic getaway for just the two of you. Cool fall weather brings beautiful autumn leaves, fewer crowds, and the chance to enjoy your chosen destination at your own pace – if that sounds like a dream, consider visiting one of the eight best honeymoon destinations in November and October!
1. Budapest, Hungary – Romantic European Charm
Beautiful autumn weather, fewer crowds, and the charm of Christmas markets make Budapest one of the best honeymoon destinations in November and October.
For a honeymoon filled with history, culture, and charm, Budapest is a hidden gem. By mid-autumn, the city transforms into a haven of warmth and wonder as festive markets light up its streets. Couples can visit the soothing waters of the Szechenyi Thermal Baths, glide along the Danube River at sunset, or wander through the grandeur of Buda Castle.
Some of the best ways to experience the city include:
- Sightseeing Cruises – Visit Budapest’s famous landmarks, including the Parliament, Buda Castle, and Chain Bridge, all from the unique vantage point of the Danube River. Cruises run both during the day and at night, with evening options particularly popular for the breathtaking sight of the city lights reflecting on the water.
- River Cruises – Multiple cruise lines, including Viking Cruises® and AmaWaterways®, offer amazing Danube River itineraries that pass through Budapest. This is a great option if you’re looking to explore other parts of Europe on your honeymoon.
- Guided Tours – Perfect for history buffs and couples interested in the city’s rich culture and past.
2. Maui, Hawaii – Adventure and Relaxation
Why visit in the fall? Fewer crowds, pleasant temperatures, and the chance to witness the island’s famous humpback whale migration.
Maui is one of the best honeymoon destinations in November an October because of the way it balances adventure and relaxation. November and October and great months to visit, with mild weather and fewer tourists. Spend your days hiking through the lush rainforests of Haleakalā National Park or lounging on the famous Wailea Beach. November is also the beginning of humpback whale season in Maui – consider booking a whale-watching tour or simply head to the shores to catch glimpses of them breaching and tail-slapping in the distance.
Maui’s luxury resorts, like the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea, offer world-class spa experiences and private dining options for a romantic evening under the stars.
3. Santorini, Greece – Unforgettable Sunsets & Culture
As the summer crowds dissipate and the weather remains mild, couples can enjoy a more intimate and relaxed experience.
Santorini is a honeymoon classic, known for its stunning sunsets, whitewashed buildings, and panoramic views of the sparkling Aegean Sea. Tourism begins to wane in early fall, meaning the two of you can explore its picturesque towns and famous blue-domed churches without the crowds.
The cooler weather is perfect for leisurely strolls along Oia’s cobbled streets or relaxing in a private villa overlooking the caldera. November and October are is also a wonderful times to take a romantic tour through one of Santorini’s wineries and experience the unique flavors imparted from the island’s volcanic soil.
Want to make the most of your trip? Consider visiting multiple islands on your honeymoon. We can help arrange the travel details and make planning a breeze – learn more about our Greek Island vacations here.
4. Costa Rica – An Eco-Luxury Escape
The start of the dry season brings great weather for both relaxing on the beach and outdoor activities.
Mid-autumn marks the tail end of Costa Rica’s “green season,” meaning the landscape is lush and vibrant after months of rain. The rainy season begins to taper off during this time, offering mostly sunny days with occasional light showers.
The Pacific coast – including popular destinations like Tamarindo, Manuel Antonio, and the Nicoya Peninsula – enjoys plenty of sunshine, while the Caribbean coast offers its own unique charm with a mix of sun and showers. Costa Rica also offers incredible wildlife spotting, from sloths to toucans.
There are multiple eco-luxury resorts offering activities like zip-lining, hot springs soaks, and sunset catamaran cruises. If you’re looking for an all-inclusive honeymoon, Secrets Papayago is a great choice for adults only, while Dreams Las Mareas is perfect for couples with children.
5. Kyoto, Japan – A Unique & Tranquil Getaway
The autumn colors are at their peak, making Kyoto even more picturesque and magical.
These are some unique ways to make the most of your trip to Kyoto.
- Visit the city on a cruise – Similar to Budapest, there are several cruise lines that offer amazing Japan itineraries with stops in Kyoto, including Celebrity Cruises® and Royal Caribbean®.
- Take the Sagano Romantic Train – If you’re visiting Kyoto in the fall, the Sagano Romantic Train is a must for honeymooners. The 25-minute rail journey winds through the gorgeous countryside and runs alongside the Hozugawa River, treating you to some of the most breathtaking views of autumn leaves. It’s perfect for a romantic, relaxing date.
- Sightsee on a rickshaw ride – A rickshaw ride through the Arashiyama bamboo grove or around the feudal-era Higashiyama District is a fun way to enjoy Kyoto’s beauty together.
6. Tuscany, Italy – World-Famous Wine and Countryside Charm
With its beautiful scenery and famous cuisine, Tuscany is the perfect choice for a dreamy, slow-paced autumn honeymoon filled with romance and relaxation.
For wine enthusiasts and couples looking for a serene countryside retreat, Tuscany is a magical honeymoon destination year-round – but especially in November. As the grape harvest season comes to an end, the region transforms into a beautiful patchwork of golden vineyards and rolling green hills.
Couples can spend the day exploring romantic hilltop towns like Siena, San Gimignano, and Montepulciano, which all offer a charming blend of medieval charm and scenery. Enjoy touring some of the world’s most renowned vineyards, where you can sample Tuscany’s finest vintage wines.
If you’d like to visit other cities while on your honeymoon in Italy, these are also lovely in November and October:
- Genoa – A beautiful port city on Italy’s northwestern coast, along the Ligurian Sea.
- Verona – What destination could be more romantic than the setting of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet?
- Bergamo – Just northeast of Milan, Bergamo’s historic Città Alta district is a picturesque medieval hilltop village that feels like stepping back in time.
7. Iceland – An Unforgettable Landscape
Chase the Northern Lights and explore Iceland’s natural wonders before the peak winter season begins.
For couples who want a unique, adventurous honeymoon, Iceland in late fall offers a stunning wintery landscape with the chance to witness the Northern Lights.
November falls in the off-season for tourism in Iceland, meaning fewer crowds at popular attractions like the Blue Lagoon, waterfalls, and national parks. This makes the experience more intimate and ideal for a private escape.
Iceland’s natural beauty becomes even more dramatic this time of year, with snow-capped mountains, icy waterfalls, and glacier-covered terrain. Visiting attractions like Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon or exploring ice caves is a surreal experience that feels like stepping into a fairytale.
Prefer spending a few days in the city? Fall is a wonderful time to enjoy Reykjavík’s amazing restaurants and cuisine. Enjoy traditional dishes like lamb stew or fresh Arctic char in cozy restaurants, or take part in local events like holidays and music festivals that celebrate Icelandic traditions.
8. Paris, France – Timeless Romance in the City of Light
Cool weather creates a perfect atmosphere for sipping hot chocolate in Parisian cafes or enjoying a cozy Seine river cruise.
Paris truly shines as one of the best honeymoon destinations in November, offering a quieter, more intimate experience of the City of Light. The city’s picturesque streets, dotted with gorgeous cafes and the warm hues of late autumn, make the perfect setting for a remarkable honeymoon in one of the world’s most romantic cities.
If you’re looking to get out and explore the city, there are plenty of guided tours to choose from, including walking tours of the city, museum tours, and Eiffel Tower excursions. Many European river cruise lines also offer itineraries that focus on Paris, including Viking River Cruises® and AmaWaterways®.
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