The melodic peel of church bells echoes off the well-trodden limestone slabs, heralding the newly-cemented nuptials of the couple emerging, beaming, into the square. Smiling conspiratorially at the assembled throng, the bride raises her arm, hand clutching her colourful bouquet, in a gesture of triumph.
The usually silent square around the Church of St Mark, is filled with raucous applause and whooping cheers as the crowd erupts in celebration.
As the revellers throw confetti and snap photos for their social media accounts, the couple wave and skip towards the waiting horse and carriage.
As though impatient to get to the reception, the white-plumed horses toss their heads and nicker. The couple hops in, and the horses set off at a canter, as the bride and groom blow kisses back towards their friends and family.
I’m on Hvar, one of the upscale islands off the coast of mainland Croatia, watching a friend become a wife in one of the most popular – and beautiful – wedding destinations in Europe. Croatia and its islands have been a favourite for several years as a choice for nuptials, as the Balkans have become more attractive for all types of tourism.
New kids on the block
Alongside more traditional options like The Mediterranean, Indian Ocean and the Caribbean, other destinations including in the UAE – particularly Ras Al Khaimah and Dubai – “alternative Europe” including Poland, plus Latin America, are becoming popular.
“We are finding South Africa and Southeast Asia are attracting honeymooners looking to include a range of activities and experiences,” says Keir Ashley, Product Manager at First Class Holidays.
“Think ‘bucket-list’ trips with more going on in an itinerary rather than the traditional beach stay for a honeymoon.”
The growing popularity of off-season honeymoons in affordable locations mean that destinations in southeast Asia, such as Thailand, are having a moment. The year-round good weather and selection of affordable hotels are a big draw, says Deborah Wadhams, Head of Long-Haul Product at Gold Medal.
“Thailand not only has really amazing beaches, but it also has a rich cultural heritage and is perfect for culture lovers, as well as those who just want to relax in the sunshine.”
Twin-centre trips are growing in popularity, as opting for two destinations allows clients to pack more activities in, but also incorporate a balance between adventure and relaxation. “Destinations such as Sri Lanka are a good choice as they offer a mix of beaches, culture and safari options,” says Wadhams.
“Many will twin-centre Sri Lanka with four or five nights in the Maldives or an African safari holiday with their final days in Zanzibar, to create the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.”
Experience economy
Couples are looking to include more memorable and unique experiences, with a private or personalised element.
“For South Africa, we work with lodges that will offer private dinners overlooking game reserves, and who can arrange private game drives,” says Ashley.
“With Southeast Asia, private independent touring is popular because there is the flexibility to tailor the tour for couples, and be guided by locals, while still involving some days of leisure and down time.
Accommodation, transportation and sightseeing are bespoke and unique to the clients, with the extra hand hold for reassurance,” he adds.
Wellness, especially in the form of outdoor and nature activities, is high on the agenda too, says Denise Hunn, Canada and USA Programme Manager at Prestige Travel. “Our clients are looking to include sightseeing, wildlife viewing, hiking and rafting. They don’t want to sit on a beach or beside a pool but neither do they want the hustle and bustle of being in the city too long.”
Clients are willing to shell out big bucks, whether it’s in popular destinations such as Greece or emerging ones like Chile, says Charlotte Wells, Director, Global Tailormade Product at Abercrombie & Kent.
“Couples are increasingly looking for activities, experiences and destinations that make their honeymoon feel completely different to a normal holiday. From luxury camping under the stars in the Atacama Desert to an after-hours private dinner at the Acropolis Museum in Athens, honeymooners are more likely to splurge on these unique experiences,” she explains.
Indulging in gastronomy-related honeymoons is popular too, adds Wells. “Food and wine is a huge draw with authentic local cuisine and Michelin star dining becoming a big focus along with vineyards and wine tours.”
Top experiences
For safari-themed honeymoons, Kitirua Plains Lodge, an A&K Sanctuary property, will be opening in Kenya’s Amboseli National Park in early 2026. Gorilla Forest Lodge in Uganda and Baines’ Lodge in Botswana will both be reopening in the coming months. abercrombiekent.com/sanctuary
Radisson’s Mauritius properties (Radisson Blu Azuri Resort & Spa Mauritius, Radisson Blu Poste Lafayette Resort & Spa and Crystals Beach Resort Belle Mare) offer a Wedding Bliss package featuring a dedicated wedding planner; candlelit dinner; signature wedding cake; couples massages; and a gift from the resort. radissonhotels.com/mauritius
More adventurous couples can tie the knot in the heart of the Dubai desert, at Bab Al Shams. Just a 45-minute drive from downtown Dubai, or 60 minutes from Dubai International Airport, ceremonies can take place among the dunes at Sunset Point or in a number of courtyards and terraces. The Garden Café can hold up 500 for a cocktail reception and 400 for a sit down dinner. babalshams.com
Couples wishing to tie the knot or honeymoon in Jamaica will be able to take advantage of direct flights from this summer. Virgin Atlantic’s new non-stop service from London Heathrow to Montego Bay will open up direct access to wedding resorts including the adults-only Riu Montego Bay, Beaches Negril and Moon Palace. visitjamaica.com
Alphonse Island, part of Blue Safari Seychelles, is renovating its romantic Beach Bungalows for 2025. Couples can book a Wedding Package Add-On or extend their trip for a honeymoon with a difference: perhaps snorkelling or scuba diving with manta and eagle rays, Green and Hawksbill turtles, or exploring the Reef Flats. bluesafari.com
Referred to as “the Venice of Poland”, Wrocław is made up of 12 islands connected by hundreds of bridges.
Honeymooners can take a romantic boat ride on the Odre River or declare their love on Tumski Bridge, a famed landmark which connects the mainland to Cathedral island. visitwroclaw.eu/en
BOOK IT
A seven-night stay at Boutique Hotel Alhambra on Lošinj starts from £3,895pp (based on two) on a B&B basis. Includes return flights from London, private transfers and two privately guided excursions. audleytravel.com/croatia
