What makes romantic gay holidays different from regular romantic getaways?

Romantic gay holidays focus on destinations and hotels where LGBT+ couples are truly celebrated. It’s about choosing places where you feel safe, comfortable, and welcomed without hesitation.

Are there destinations that are best avoided for same-sex couples?

Yes, some countries still have restrictive laws. When planning, it’s wise to choose destinations known for inclusivity. At Wide Awake Holidays, we guide you towards places where romance and safety go hand in hand.

Which destinations are the most popular for romantic gay holidays?

Santorini, the Maldives, Paris, and Bali are among the top choices. Each offers a unique blend of beauty, inclusivity, and romance that appeals to same-sex couples.

Can you book romantic gay holidays from outside the UK?

Absolutely. While we are UK-based, we arrange travel for clients worldwide, including the United States and beyond.

What protections are included when booking through Wide Awake Holidays?

Every holiday includes Supplier Failure Insurance and Scheduled Airline Failure Insurance. As an ATOL-licensed company and member of Protected Trust Services, your money is always safe.

Are there exclusively gay resorts for romantic holidays?

Yes. In destinations such as Santorini, Thailand, and parts of Spain, there are properties created specifically for LGBT+ guests. These add extra comfort and reassurance to your stay.

How can I make a romantic gay holiday feel more special?

Extras like private transfers, couples’ spa treatments, or private dining make a big difference. Booking with Wide Awake Holidays gives you access to tailored perks and personalised touches.

Is Paris still one of the best cities for same-sex couples?

Yes, Paris remains a top destination. From the charm of Le Marais to iconic sights like the Eiffel Tower, it combines romance with inclusivity in a way few cities can.

What’s the best time of year to plan romantic gay holidays?

It depends on the destination. For instance, Santorini is best in late spring or early autumn, while the Maldives is perfect in winter. We can help match your dates to the best places.

Why should I book with Wide Awake Holidays instead of arranging it myself?

Because we understand the difference between being tolerated and being celebrated. We tailor each trip to reflect your relationship, while ensuring you have financial protection and insider access to the best hotels and experiences.

Romantic Gay Holidays: Top Destinations for Couples

Why Romantic Gay Holidays Matter More Than Ever

When travel is labelled “gay friendly,” it often only scratches the surface. Being tolerated is not the same as being celebrated. Same-sex couples deserve places where they can hold hands without hesitation, share a kiss at sunset, and know that their love is respected as much as anyone else’s. That’s the essence of romantic gay holidays — not just inclusivity, but genuine joy and welcome.

You want to feel safe, seen, and special. And that’s exactly what the right destination can deliver.

Few places on earth evoke romance like Santorini. The island’s whitewashed walls, sapphire-domed churches, and legendary sunsets make it a natural choice for couples looking to celebrate their love. Same-sex couples will find the hospitality warm and relaxed, especially in Oia and Imerovigli, where boutique hotels cater to intimate stays.

The beauty here is all about the small moments. Sharing a glass of local Assyrtiko wine as the sky turns crimson. Wandering through narrow alleys lined with bougainvillaea. Retreating to a cliffside suite with a private plunge pool and caldera views.

Santorini also offers an exclusively gay guesthouse, Villa Katikies, where you can meet like-minded travellers while still enjoying privacy. Staying here adds an extra layer of comfort, knowing you’re in a space designed with LGBT+ travellers in mind.

If you’d like, we can highlight an exclusive Wide Awake Holidays offer here — the kind of personal service and tailored detail you won’t find from large travel agencies.

No list of romantic destinations is complete without Paris. The French capital is often called the City of Love, and for good reason. Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, the city manages to make every couple feel like the only two people in the world.

For LGBT+ travellers, Paris is both safe and celebratory. Le Marais, the city’s historic gay district, is full of chic cafés, stylish boutiques, and lively bars where you’ll feel entirely at ease. Yet romance here isn’t confined to nightlife — it’s woven into the city’s rhythm.

Imagine strolling along the Seine at twilight. Sharing a quiet moment beneath the Eiffel Tower as it sparkles on the hour. Indulging in a decadent dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant where the service feels personal, not perfunctory. Paris offers all this and more.

Same-sex couples often choose boutique stays in Saint-Germain or stylish hotels with Eiffel Tower views. Many welcome honeymooners with champagne on arrival and small touches that make a trip unforgettable.

And again, this is where Wide Awake Holidays can step in. We can provide offers for these stays and secure extras that make your Parisian escape even more special.

When people imagine the ultimate romantic escape, the Maldives often comes to mind. The country is made up of private islands dotted with luxury resorts, where overwater villas sit above turquoise lagoons and the horizon feels endless. For couples, especially those planning romantic gay holidays, the Maldives offers a level of seclusion that makes every moment feel private and personal.

Despite being a conservative country, many high-end resorts in the Maldives are international brands with a reputation for inclusivity. Here, same-sex couples can relax, knowing the focus is on service and privacy. Resorts like Baros, Soneva Jani, and Anantara Dhigu are especially popular for honeymoons and anniversaries, with private butlers, candlelit dinners on the sand, and spa rituals designed for two.

Picture this: a sunset dolphin cruise followed by champagne under the stars. It’s simple, yet utterly unforgettable. That’s the Maldives in its purest form — just you, your partner, and the beauty of nature.

This is also a destination where we can provide tailored packages, ensuring that your stay includes the extras that make a big difference, such as private transfers, dining credits, or exclusive excursions.

Venice is timeless. Its winding canals, ornate palaces, and quiet piazzas make it one of the most romantic cities in Europe. For couples seeking a destination that feels like stepping into a dream, Venice is hard to rival.

For LGBT+ travellers, Venice offers a warm welcome, particularly in its smaller, family-run hotels where hospitality is personal. A gondola ride might sound cliché, but when you’re gliding through candlelit canals at dusk, it feels like a scene written just for you.

Venice also offers experiences beyond the waterways. You can wander hand-in-hand through the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, take a day trip to Murano for glassmaking, or simply watch the world go by in Piazza San Marco with a coffee in hand.

Boutique hotels along the Grand Canal often cater to couples, with private terraces and rooftop views that add intimacy to your stay. If we have an offer running for Venice properties, it’s worth noting here, as our tailored packages often include perks such as early check-in or complimentary dinners.

Not every romantic escape has to be slow and serene. For couples who thrive on energy, excitement, and discovery, New York is an unforgettable option. This is a city that has long been at the forefront of LGBT+ rights and culture, making it an inspiring backdrop for romantic gay holidays.

In Manhattan, romance might mean a candlelit dinner in the West Village, followed by a Broadway show. It might mean exploring Central Park by horse-drawn carriage or sharing late-night cocktails in a rooftop bar overlooking the skyline. For others, the city’s vibrant LGBT+ history, centred around Greenwich Village, adds even more meaning to a stay here.

New York offers an endless choice of hotels, from stylish boutique properties downtown to luxury icons like The Plaza and The Peninsula. Many offer honeymoon packages that include champagne, flowers, or spa treatments for two.

This is also a city where personal travel planning makes all the difference. With our access to a wide range of suppliers, Wide Awake Holidays can secure deals and experiences that ensure your New York trip matches your idea of romance perfectly.

Thailand is one of the most welcoming countries for LGBT+ travellers in Asia, making it a fantastic choice for couples seeking romance, relaxation, and adventure. Whether you prefer the lively energy of Bangkok, the cultural depth of Chiang Mai, or the tranquil beaches of Koh Samui and Phuket, Thailand has it all.

For same-sex couples, the country offers both inclusivity and variety. In Bangkok, you can enjoy rooftop dining at world-class restaurants or explore the colourful nightlife. In Chiang Mai, romance takes the form of temple visits, spa retreats, and riverside dining. On the islands, it’s all about barefoot luxury: beachfront villas, longtail boat rides to hidden coves, and candlelit dinners with your toes in the sand.

Thailand also has an exclusive gay resort scene, particularly in places like Phuket and Koh Samui, where properties are designed specifically for LGBT+ guests. This means you can relax without a second thought, knowing you’re in a space created with your comfort in mind.

For those booking with Wide Awake Holidays, we can often include extras such as private transfers, spa credits, or special dining packages that turn a Thailand trip into a true celebration of your love.

Barcelona is a city that knows how to set the scene for romance. Its combination of architecture, beachside living, and lively atmosphere makes it perfect for couples who want variety. For LGBT+ travellers, the city is not only safe but openly celebratory, with one of the largest Pride festivals in Europe and a thriving gay scene in Eixample, often called “Gaixample.”

Yet romance here extends beyond the nightlife. Imagine sharing tapas at a candlelit bar, walking hand-in-hand through Gaudí’s Park Güell, or watching the sun dip into the sea at Barceloneta Beach. Barcelona offers both intimacy and excitement in equal measure.

Hotels here range from sleek beachfront resorts to stylish boutique stays in the Gothic Quarter. Many cater to couples, offering rooftop pools and private terraces where you can relax away from the crowds. This is also a destination where our connections allow us to secure extras like champagne on arrival or spa discounts.

Bali has become synonymous with romance, offering a mix of tropical beauty, cultural depth, and warm hospitality. For couples planning romantic gay holidays, Bali provides an inviting and memorable experience.

The island is dotted with luxurious private villas complete with pools and lush gardens, perfect for couples who want seclusion. Ubud offers a spiritual edge, with yoga retreats, jungle treks, and intimate spa rituals. Meanwhile, Seminyak and Canggu provide stylish beachfront dining and boutique stays designed for modern travellers.

While Bali is a conservative destination overall, many resorts are internationally recognised for their inclusivity and welcome same-sex couples with the same care as any guest. There are also a handful of LGBT-owned villas and resorts where you’ll feel completely at home.

Booking with Wide Awake Holidays ensures that you’re placed in the properties most aligned with your comfort, whether that means a private villa surrounded by rice paddies or a beachfront escape with sunset views.

For couples who like their romance with a touch of adventure, Cape Town is an exceptional choice. The city is known for its natural beauty, with Table Mountain, pristine beaches, and world-class vineyards all within reach. For LGBT+ travellers, it’s also one of Africa’s most welcoming destinations, with a vibrant gay scene centred in Green Point and De Waterkant.

Romance here could mean sipping wine in the Cape Winelands, exploring the Cape Peninsula, or simply sharing a picnic on Clifton Beach. The city offers both thrill and tranquillity, depending on what you’re looking for.

Boutique hotels and luxury guesthouses often cater to couples, with rooftop pools, spa treatments, and private tours designed for two. If we have an offer available, this would be an ideal place to highlight it, as Cape Town packages can often include wine tastings or private excursions that add even more romance to the trip.

Few places embody passion like Buenos Aires. Known as the birthplace of tango, this Argentine city is alive with music, dance, and culture. For same-sex couples, it’s also one of the most progressive cities in South America, with legal recognition of LGBT+ rights and a thriving community.

A romantic getaway here could mean dancing together in a traditional milonga, wandering the colourful streets of La Boca, or enjoying a candlelit steak dinner with fine Argentine wine. Buenos Aires also offers a stylish hotel scene, from chic boutique stays in Palermo to grand historic properties in the city centre.

Romance here feels spontaneous and alive. And with our tailored packages, we can ensure your Buenos Aires experience reflects both the energy of the city and the intimacy of your relationship.

Iceland is made for couples who dream of once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Here, romance is about awe — watching the Northern Lights together, soaking in a geothermal lagoon, or standing side by side at a waterfall that feels like it belongs only to you.

For LGBT+ couples, Iceland is one of the safest and most inclusive destinations in the world. Same-sex marriage has been legal here since 2010, and the atmosphere is welcoming and relaxed. That makes it an ideal choice for honeymoons or anniversaries.

Hotels range from cosy boutique lodges in Reykjavik to remote luxury stays near glaciers or fjords. Imagine waking up in a glass-roofed cabin and watching the Northern Lights from bed — it doesn’t get more romantic than that.

Wide Awake Holidays can arrange Iceland trips that balance adventure and comfort, with extras such as private tours, spa experiences, or glacier hikes designed to suit your style.

Peace of Mind When Booking with Jamie Wake Travel

Romance should never be overshadowed by worry. That’s why when you book with Jamie Wake Travel, part of Wide Awake Holidays, your holiday is backed by the protections that matter most.

Every tailor-made holiday comes with Supplier Failure Insurance and Scheduled Airline Failure Insurance included as standard. This means that if one of your chosen suppliers or airlines were to cease trading, your trip — and your money — remain fully protected. You won’t be left stranded or out of pocket.

As a UK-based company, we’re also proud members of the Protected Trust Services and hold an ATOL licence. These protections ensure that your funds are held securely until your travel is fulfilled, offering peace of mind whether you’re travelling from the UK or abroad.

And because we’re an independent, gay-owned travel company, we don’t just secure your holiday — we also ensure your experience reflects your values, comfort, and the way you want to travel.

Why Choose Wide Awake Holidays for Your Romantic Escape?

Romantic getaways are deeply personal. You want a trip that celebrates your love in the way that feels right for you. That’s where we come in.

At Wide Awake Holidays, we tailor every journey to fit your story. We know that “gay friendly” isn’t always enough. You deserve destinations and hotels where your relationship is honoured, respected, and celebrated. With access to a wide network of trusted suppliers, we can offer you options that larger travel agencies simply can’t.

Whether you’re dreaming of sunsets in Santorini, a luxury villa in Bali, or the magic of Iceland’s Northern Lights, we’ll make it happen with the detail and care it deserves.

To start planning your next romantic holiday, give us a call on 01495 400947 or use our easy holiday enquiry form on the website. Your love deserves nothing less than the perfect setting.

What makes romantic gay holidays different from regular romantic getaways?
Romantic gay holidays focus on destinations and hotels where LGBT+ couples are truly celebrated. It’s about choosing places where you feel safe, comfortable, and welcomed without hesitation.
Are there destinations that are best avoided for same-sex couples?
Yes, some countries still have restrictive laws. When planning, it’s wise to choose destinations known for inclusivity. At Wide Awake Holidays, we guide you towards places where romance and safety go hand in hand.
Which destinations are the most popular for romantic gay holidays?
Santorini, the Maldives, Paris, and Bali are among the top choices. Each offers a unique blend of beauty, inclusivity, and romance that appeals to same-sex couples.
Can you book romantic gay holidays from outside the UK?
Absolutely. While we are UK-based, we arrange travel for clients worldwide, including the United States and beyond.
What protections are included when booking through Wide Awake Holidays?
Every holiday includes Supplier Failure Insurance and Scheduled Airline Failure Insurance. As an ATOL-licensed company and member of Protected Trust Services, your money is always safe.
Are there exclusively gay resorts for romantic holidays?
Yes. In destinations such as Santorini, Thailand, and parts of Spain, there are properties created specifically for LGBT+ guests. These add extra comfort and reassurance to your stay.
How can I make a romantic gay holiday feel more special?
Extras like private transfers, couples’ spa treatments, or private dining make a big difference. Booking with Wide Awake Holidays gives you access to tailored perks and personalised touches.
Is Paris still one of the best cities for same-sex couples?
Yes, Paris remains a top destination. From the charm of Le Marais to iconic sights like the Eiffel Tower, it combines romance with inclusivity in a way few cities can.
What’s the best time of year to plan romantic gay holidays?
It depends on the destination. For instance, Santorini is best in late spring or early autumn, while the Maldives is perfect in winter. We can help match your dates to the best places.
Why should I book with Wide Awake Holidays instead of arranging it myself?
Because we understand the difference between being tolerated and being celebrated. We tailor each trip to reflect your relationship, while ensuring you have financial protection and insider access to the best hotels and experiences.