7 Honeymoon Spots Brimming with Culture

Booking your honeymoon is one of the most exciting elements of wedding planning, and you understandably want to go all out with a memorable trip. It’s the perfect opportunity to unwind after months of wedding planning, and spend time with your new spouse. It’s an important part of your wedding experience and a big decision to make, so you want to make sure you’re choosing somewhere special, that’s as beautiful as it is interesting. 

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The benefits of choosing a cultural getaway

Many of the most popular honeymoon destinations tend to be known for their golden beaches and tranquillity, but that doesn’t mean you can’t break from tradition and choose a cultural escape instead. Beach getaways aren’t for everyone and there are advantages to choosing somewhere a bit richer in culture that still offer those Instagram-worthy landscapes. 

Firstly, heading to somewhere with architecture, experiences and a rich history gives you plenty of opportunity to create lasting memories for the start of your lives as a married couple. It also pushes you to step outside of your comfort zone and try new things as a couple, whether it’s snorkelling to explore sea life, hiking to a landmark off the beaten track or learning about local lore. It also forces you to disconnect from technology, dive into the local area and invest quality time in each other. 

So where do you begin narrowing down your search for a location that’s beautiful and interesting with plenty to see and do? If you’re looking to be inspired, these destinations are packed with exceptional landmarks, indulgent cuisine and have fascinating histories to explore.

Java, Indonesia

While Bali might be the go-to honeymoon spot when wedding planning, you shouldn’t overlook Java. This island is defined by its residents, making it a fantastic spot to explore if you want to get to know Indonesia’s culture. In particular, landmarks such as Borobudur, Java’s answer to Machu Picchu or Angkor Wat, which is a 9-tiered 9th century temple and the largest Buddhist structure in the world, are well worth visiting for. It portrays over 500 Buddha statues and intricately carved panels which show legends of the area and scenes of daily life in Java. 

Marrakech, Morocco

Marrakech is one of the most vibrant, enticing destinations in the world and if it’s culture you’re looking for, few locations can match it. It’s home to incredible architecture, friendly locals and abundant nature, as well as spots for romance and relaxation. Marrakech truly has it all, and whether you’re taking a cooking class together to make traditional dishes, wandering the souks in search of the perfect souvenir or sipping mint tea in a rooftop bar, you’ll be sure to make amazing memories here.  

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Myanmar, Southeast Asia

Myanmar might not be the first place you think of when you’re planning your wedding and honeymoon but that’s part of its appeal. From luxury pool villas to intimate dinners on the beach, it offers all the classic hallmarks of a honeymoon, but it also offers adventure, unspoiled landscapes and the characteristic warm welcome of Southeast Asia. Tourism has yet to leave its mark on Myanmar, so you get a true sense of the undiscovered areas of this location, and for couples who love to venture to destinations that aren’t your typical holiday spots, it’s a fantastic choice. 

Prague, Czech Republic 

Prague is one of Europe’s true highlights and in this post-pandemic world, it’s an even bigger joy to visit. Once a tourist hub, you can now wander the streets of this fairytale city more calmly and take in the beauty of its Gothic architecture and UNESCO-listed medieval streets. Prague also enjoys a packed calendar with live music, theatre events and festivals throughout the year. From Prague’s castle and the Old Town Square’s astronomical clock to the statue-lined Charles Bridge, it’s a stunning location that makes for an unforgettable honeymoon. 

Ravenna, Italy

Put the notion of Rome or Venice to the side for the moment and consider the city of Ravenna for your honeymoon. Once the capital of the Western Roman Empire, it boasts an astonishing eight UNESCO sites which all date back to the 5th and 6th centuries, and a kaleidoscope of elegant mosaics and impressive basilicas on virtually every corner. In between visiting world heritage sites, you and your partner can feast on delicious food and unwind with trips to the beach. Ravenna offers the perfect blend of history, culture, romance and relaxation, making it a fantastic choice for a more unique honeymoon destination in Italy. 

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Zermatt, Switzerland

If you’re an adventurous type, Zermatt in Switzerland is the ideal choice for a honeymoon destination. Zermatt is a very romantic location, sitting at the foot of the Matterhorn, and its original character has been largely preserved despite its popularity. It offers unlimited possibilities for hiking and skiing, but also for wandering the Matterhorn Museum or exploring the historic heart of the area in Hinterdorf, where winding alleys and wooden barns dating back to the 16th century line the roads. 

Hoi An, Vietnam

Located on the coast of the East Sea in South Vietnam, Hoi An is a recognised World Heritage Site and a charming location that’s utterly breathtaking. With the Ancient Town, Hoi An has a charming and romantic atmosphere, with lantern-lit streets and picturesque canals. It’s a wonderful location for a relaxed and intimate escape after your wedding, where you can relax on beautiful beaches, explore historic temples and traditional markets, or take part in local cultural activities. 

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Choosing a cultural destination for your honeymoon can be a great way to create lasting memories and deepen your connection as a couple. It can offer unique experiences, education about the destination you’re visiting, and enrichment throughout your trip. From exploring different customs and traditions to meeting local people, learning new skills and hobbies, and building memories together, these cultural spots may not be the most commonly visited locations for a honeymoon but that doesn’t make them any less romantic or beautiful.