First-year of your marital life means a lot to both of you. It marks the starting of your togetherness, which is a year old but still as fresh as day one.
It is not that old to be considered a milestone. Moreover, you both are together with each other on the roller coaster journey of a good or bad day of your marriage.
First anniversary messages are meant to be romantic, funny, sexy, cool, and loving. If you don’t know what to write a plan for your first anniversary, take a look at the 1st-anniversary trip ideas below and incorporate them into your own wishes.
There’s also a trend toward combining a dream vacation with a vow renewal when you reach a milestone anniversary. For ideas, here is the list of top anniversary destinations for couples in the US and Europe.
#1. Vail Mountain, Colorado
The town, home to Vail Ski Resort, the largest ski mountain in Colorado, is known for its hotels, dining, and for the numerous events the city hosts annually, such as the Vail Film Festival, Burton US Open, Vail Resorts Snow Days, and Bravo! Vail.
Best times to visit Vail are December to March and June to September. However, December through March marks the ski season, and as such, you can expect to encounter crowds and exorbitant hotel rates.
Romantic places to travel: During winters couples can take advantage of this ski and snowboard hot spot on Vail Mountain and its idyllic Bavarian-style mountain village.
Other attractions: Colorado snow sports, vail nature center, walking mountains science center, Keystone Resort, Blue sky basin.
#2. Aspen, Colorado
Couples will enjoy the ease of getting around the town’s amenities – from lodges, restaurants, and shops – to the ski slopes and the convenience of the free bus system. Those looking for nightlife and a wide array of dining options will enjoy the abundance of options that are walkable right from your rental doorstep.
The prime times for Aspen travel, in terms of crowds and prices, are in the ski season—mainly from December to March—and then in the summer during the festival season.
Romantic places to celebrate wedding anniversary at Aspen are snowmobile to the maroon bells, snowcap dinners on the mountain, ice skating at the Hyatt grand, full moon skin up Buttermilk Mountain, and cross-country skiing.
Other attractions: Aspen’s DarkSide Ghost Tour, Aspen’s Off the Beaten Path Tour, Star Party, Aspen Performance Ski Rental Including Delivery
#3. Whistler, British Columbia
There are two majestic mountains with a vibrant base Village, epic skiing and snowboarding, four championship golf courses, unbeatable shopping, restaurants and bars, accommodation to suit every budget, hiking trails, spas and arguably the best mountain bike park in the world.
The best times to visit Whistler are from June through August and between December and March.
Romantic places to celebrate wedding anniversary: Snowmobile up to 6,000 feet, peak chair on Whistler Mountain, the Bearfoot Bistro, Banff mountain film festival, fire and ice show are a few Romantic places to travel at Whistler.
Other attractions: Whistler Blackcomb, Peak 2 Peak Gondola Whistler, Brandywine Falls Provincial Park, Lost Lake, The Black Tusk, Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre, and Green Lake.
#4. Lake Tahoe, California
Lake Tahoe is a year-round destination for nature lovers and outdoor adventure enthusiasts.
During summertime, hiking, cycling, and water sports are popular. From December through April, Lake Tahoe is a winter wonderland with opportunities for alpine and cross-country skiing, sledding, snowshoeing, and sleigh riding.
The best times to visit Lake Tahoe are from March to May and from September to November
Anniversary gateway: Explore emerald bay state park, watch the sunset from zephyr cove, take the scenic heavenly gondola ride, sierra shores, get a couple’s massage at sierra hot springs, and toast to each other on a sunset champagne cruise.
Other attractions: Emerald Bay State Park, Northstar California Resort, Squaw Valley Resort, Squaw Valley Resort, Vikingsholm, and Diamond Peak Ski Resort.
#5. Cancun, Mexico
Best-known for its white-sand beaches, near-perfect weather, and bright blue waters are the Acapulco of Mexico’s Gulf Coast. Cancun, best-known for its white-sand beaches, near-perfect weather, and bright blue waters, is the Acapulco of Mexico’s Gulf Coast.
December to April during the peak season and the best time to travel to Cancun.
Romantic places to celebrate wedding anniversary visit the best selfie spot in Cancun, Take a trip to Sian Kaan, Get adventurous at Xel-Ha Park, and Check out Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second largest coral reef, Take a dip in a Cenote, Romance at the Lobster Dinner Cruise.
Other attractions: Cancún’s Beautiful Beaches, El Rey Maya Ruins, The Maya Museum, Underwater Museum, Archaeological Site, Animal Adventures, The Scenic Tower, and Isla Mujeres.
#6. Riviera Maya
Celebrate your first anniversary at luxury hotels, resorts, and beaches. Tulum is the best place for a resort in Riviera Maya. The region is famous for its miles of soft beaches, Mayan ruins, and world-class scuba diving. With so much to see and do, the Riviera Maya will keep you enchanted during your entire stay.
The best time to visit the Riviera Maya. Avoid Riviera Maya travel from March through May, however – the heat and humidity are oppressive.
Romantic activities to make some memorable moments of life at Riviera are Cave diving in the cenotes, Snorkelling in Xel Ha, Strolling along, Mexico’s Caribbean beaches, Romantic sunset dinner cruise on a catamaran, Sunset horseback riding on the beach, Dining out and party at Playa Del Carmen.
Other Attractions: Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Puerto Morelos, Puerto Aventuras, Kantenah Bay, Cenotes.
#7. The Bahamas
If your soul partner loves foods and beverages, then the Bahamas is the best place for you. The fourth-largest Island with Bahamian Cuisine is to the foods and beverages of The Bahamas.
The best time to go is during the high season, which runs from November to mid-April, making it a great spot for spring break.
Things to do for first wedding anniversary: flying Cloud Catamaran Cruises, Happy Trails Stables, horseback riding tours, International Culture Wine and Food Festival, Dining at Graycliff Hotel, Versailles Gardens, and French Cloister.
Other attractions: Atlantis Paradise Island, Nassau, Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park, Harbour Island, Grand Bahama, Andros Island, Treasure Cay, Elbow Cay, and Bimini.
#8. Las Vegas
Fun and exciting, this city in the desert serves up all kinds of possibilities for travelers. The Strip, Las Vegas’ famous resort-lined street, sparkles with lights and recreated glamorous sites from cities around the world. Many of the hotels are attractions in and of themselves and feature free StreetSide shows, from dancing fountains to erupting volcanoes.
The best time to visit Las Vegas is from March to May and from September to November.
Anniversary gateway: The High Roller at The Linq, Eiffel Tower Experience at The Paris Hotel, Get a Couples Massage at The Aria Gondola Rides at The Venetian, Shark Reef at Mandalay Bay, Dine at e by Jose Andres.
Other attractions: Bellagio Hotel and Casino, Las Vegas Strip Luxor Hotel & Casino, MGM Grand, Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, Stratosphere Casino, Hotel & Tower, New York-New York Hotel & Casino, Treasure Island, Neon Museum
#9. Kauai
Couples may seek the endless sun of the Big Island, the incredible scenery of a road trip in Maui, and the history and excitement of Oahu. Plan your anniversary more pleasant with the Hawaiian Islands are known for raging waterfalls, but Kauai is home to one of the wettest places on earth.
The best months to visit Kauai are April, May, August, and September
Romantic gateways at Kauai are Kauapea and Maha’ulepu Romantic Beaches, Waimea Canyon Romantic outlook, Dine at Postcards Café, Sam’s Ocean View and Romantic
Brunch: NOM Kauai. Romantic adventures Holo Holo Charters Na Pali Sunset Cruise, Horseback Riding, Picnic & Waterfall Swim at Princeville Ranch & Princeville Botanical Gardens
Other Attractions: Na Pali Coast State Park, Waimea Canyon, Koke’e State Park, Polihale State Park, Wailua Falls, Kalalau Trail.
#10. Juneau
It has a popular glacier for couples called the Mendenhall Glacier. It is the largest city in the SouthEast Alaska region and is the capital of Alaska. You’ll have to compete with hordes of cruise passengers at the area’s top attractions, but the days will be long and sunny.
The best time to visit Juneau is between May and August.
Where to celebrate first wedding anniversary at Juneau: Tutka Bay Lodge, Grandma’s Feather Bed, 11th Avenue Bed and Breakfast, Denali Fireside Cabins and Suites, The Hotel Alyeska, Camai Bed and Breakfast, Sheep Mountain Lodge.
Other Attractions: Mendenhall Glacier, Tracy Arm Fjord, Glacier Gardens Rainforest Adventure, Glacier Bay National Park, Mount Roberts Tramway, Macaulay Salmon Hatchery, Alaska State Museum, & Juneau-Douglas City Museum.
#11. Napa and Sonoma
Drink wine and get drowned in your partner’s love. Two world-famous wine regions, both about an hour’s drive north of San Francisco, boast rolling hills planted with some of the most coveted grapes in the world. Napa Valley reigns as the land of grand estates, expansive tasting rooms, quaint towns, and elegant lodgings, many lining the celebrated Silverado Trail.
The best time to visit Napa is August through October or March through May.
Romantic places to celebrate wedding anniversary: Sit for Breakfast at Lucy, Pamper Yourself at Spa Solage, Grab Lunch at Bouchon, Take a Balloon Ride, Relax at Pleasure Cove, Take a Wine Tasting at Domaine Chandon, Explore Peju Province
Other Attractions: Napa Valley Wine Train, Jacuzzi Family Vineyards, Domaine Chandon, Madonna Estates, V. Sattui Winery, Gloria Ferrer Vineyard, Santa Rosa
#12. Miami
Miami does not really need an introduction. It is well known across the globe for its glitz and glamor and its beaches and sunny weather. Miami is a city that will capture you with its dazzling glamor and hold you in its spell.
Best time to visit Miami Beach is between March and May when the sun shines with temperatures in the high 70s and low 80s during the day.
Top anniversary destinations: Loosen up with a spa day at the Standard Spa, Miami Beach, Revel in the mysterious love story behind Coral Castle Museum, Cozy up at an outdoor screening at New World Symphony’s SoundScape Park, Imbibe and unwind at Schnebly Redland’s Winery, Dine on beautiful Biscayne Bay at Amara at Paraiso.
Other Attractions: Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, Bayfront Park, Crandon Park, Villa Vizcaya, Lummus Park Beach, Little Havana, Miami Beach Boardwalk, Wynwood Walls, Art Deco District, Ocean Drive.
#13. Barcelona
A perfect place for couples interested in beautiful monuments and of course the football fans. It is one of Europe’s cheapest cities and home to no shortage of things to see and do, it’s important to make every second count while in Barcelona.
Barcelona is home to the masterpieces of many great architects. The most famous of which is Antoni Gaudí. Gaudí’s work is admired by architects around the world for being one of the most unique and distinctive styles in modern architecture.
Early summer and fall are ideal times to visit, especially May to June and September to October. Even in the winter, days are crisp to cold but often sunny.
First-anniversary trip ideas at Barcelona: Take the Pedrera night tour, get drunk on wine and flamenco, snuggle up at a rooftop bar, share a kiss in front of a kiss, watch the sunset from the bunkers (turo de la rovira)get a couples massage at Aire Barcelona
Other Attractions: Sagrada Família, Casa Batlló, Park Güell, Palau de la Música Catalana, Picasso Museum, Passeig de Gràcia
#14. London
Be it the iconic Big Ben that got more fame due to the Bollywood movie ‘Queen’ or the stunning Westminster, where Prince William and Catherine Middleton got married, London surely has an impeccable charm that can sweep anyone off his or her feet.
Every bit of London feels like being covered in royalty. From the architectural marvels to the astounding museums, London has its own way of charming couples.
The best time to visit London is March through May when the temperatures are mild and the city’s parks are green and blooming.
Romantic gateways in London are: Have a picnic in St. James park, sip wine by candlelight at Gordon’s wine, Barcruise down the Thames at sunset, and spend a day wandering around Kew gardens
Other attractions: Warner Bros. Studio Tour, Buckingham Palace tour, Hop on hop off bus tour, SEA LIFE London, Tower of London, Coca-Cola London Eye, The View from The Shard, Churchill War Rooms
#15. Paris
Paris, city of love, the cradle of romantic artists. The beautiful Paris offers a wide selection of activities to do for a couple. French lovers, French kisses, French romance is romance really at the heart of every French coupling? And just how long does the steamy passion last?
The best time to visit Paris is from April to June and October to early November
Anniversary weekend gateways: Arrive to a beautiful bouquet and handwritten card, take in the view from the top of The Eiffel Tower, enjoy a captivating cabaret, picnic at a park, soak in the views from a sunset cruise along the seine, romantic shopping in Paris, get lost in the historic gardens of Paris.
Other Attractions: Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral, Arc de Triomphe, The Pantheon, Latin Quarter, Montmartre, Les Invalides, Champs-Élysées, Palace of Versailles.
#16. Dublin
Couples who love theater, music, art, and getting to know the residents of a special place will appreciate a stay in Dublin.
Best time to visit Dublin is actually in April or May when the spring weather arrives.
Top anniversary destinations: St. Stephen’s Green, Farmleigh Boathouse, The Dawson Lounge, Crossing the Ha’Penny Bridge, Denzille Cinema, The Gravity Bar, Trinity College, Saint Valentine’s Shrine, and The Abbey Theatre.
Other Attractions: Visit the Little Museum of Dublin, Walk over the River Liffey, Visit Temple Bar, Travel out to Malahide, Walk around the courtyards of Trinity College, Tour of Old Jameson Whiskey, Experience the history of Dublinia, and Visit Dublin Castle.
#17. Venice
Venice has been known as “La Dominante”, “La Serenissima”, “Queen of the Adriatic”, “The City of Water”, “City of Masks”, “City of Bridges”, “The Floating City”, and “City of Canals”. The lagoon and a part of the city are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The best time to go to Venice is April, May, September, and October.
Romantic places to travel in Venice usually include gondola rides along the canals and waterways, as well as exploring St Mark’s Square arm-in-arm. Stop at a cute cafe, listen to the charming musicians who will serenade you, and enjoy a ludicrously expensive glass of wine. With its gondola rides, opera and lavish baroque buildings, Venice oozes romance from every piazza, bridge and canal.
Visit the Bridge of Sighs, Go to the Venetian Ghetto, Piazza San Marco,Go For an Aperitivo, Climb the Campanile, and Take a Ferry to Murano, Burano and Torcello.
#18. Prague
The magic of the fairytale Prague charms the tourists in a way no other European city does. Be it the historical astronomical clock, the captivating town square or the gorgeous Prague Castle.
The shoulder season from mid-April to May and September to mid-October seems to be the best time to visit Prague.
1st-anniversary trip ideas with its quaint, cobbled streets, gothic architecture and medieval charm, you could be forgiven for thinking it’s a scene straight out of Grimm’s Fairy Tales. Walk hand-in-hand over ornate bridges and through picturesque squares, as you soak up the atmosphere and discover the fascinating history and culture of the city.
Other attractions: Dancing house, Prague castle, St Vitus cathedral, Charles bridge museum, art nouveau architecture, Wenceslas square
#19. Amsterdam
Amsterdam is romantic at heart and this cold weather is making me sentimental. It is famous for its canals, beautiful houses, so-called coffee shops and Red Light District, but there’s plenty more to this liberal city than most couples realize.
The Dutch capital is great all year round, but April to May and September to November are the best time to visit Amsterdam.
Things to do for first wedding anniversary: See Amsterdam by Night, Take a Private Amsterdam Canal Cruise, Dine in ‘Heaven’ in Amsterdam, Shower Your Loved One With Flowers, See a Film at Pathé Tuskinski,
Other Attractions: Hop on your bike, Get lost in the arty Jordaan, Soak up some culture in Museumplein, Catch the ferry to Amsterdam North, Take a canal cruise, and try herring from a herring cart
#20. Rome
With its grand monuments, beautiful fountains, resplendent piazzas and cobblestoned streets, Rome is undoubtedly one of the worlds most romantic cities.
The best time to visit Rome is between September and November
Where to celebrate first wedding anniversary Couples can Tour the town on a horse carriage, Take a cruise tour on the Tiber River, Go for a romantic stroll in Villa Borghese Garden, Glance at the city while on a picnic in Aventine Hill, Attend an Opera night in Teatro dell opera di Roma
Also Explore: Top 10 Best Places to Visit in France
Other Attractions: Colosseum, Roman Forum, Pantheon, Vatican City, Piazza Navona, Trevi Fountain, Capuchin Crypt, Castel Sant’Angelo
#21. Bora Bora, French Polynesia
Bora Bora is a major international tourist destination, famous for its aqua-centric luxury resorts. The major settlement, Vaitape, is on the western side of the main island, opposite the main channel into the lagoon.
The best times to go to Bora Bora are November and April.
Romantic places to travel: snorkeling, scuba diving, dinner on the beach, dolphin & whale watching, sunset cruise, 4wd tour, climbing mount pahia.
Other attractions: Matira Beach, 4×4 Excursions, Coral Gardens, Boat Tours, Shark/Stingray Feeding, Bora Bora Lagoonarium, Bora Bora Lagoonarium, Mount Otemanu
