Top 5 Destinations for Valentine’s Day: Love is in the Air ✈️

Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to escape the ordinary and celebrate love in a magical destination. For airline employees, your travel benefits make it easy to plan a romantic getaway without spending a fortune.

Whether you’re seeking cozy charm or iconic romance, these five destinations offer unforgettable experiences for couples or friends (Galentine’s anyone?). We’ve included detailed tips for nonrev travelers and hotel options for every budget.

5. Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto is a city where history, culture, and natural beauty intertwine to create a tranquil and romantic experience. For Valentine’s Day, Kyoto offers a serene escape with its zen gardens, ancient temples, and peaceful landscapes.

February is the start of plum blossom season, adding bursts of color to the already picturesque city. Couples can enjoy quiet moments walking through the famous Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where towering bamboo creates a magical, almost otherworldly setting.

• Fly into: Kansai International Airport (KIX)

• Getting to the City: Take the Haruka Express train for a quick and comfortable 75-minute journey to Kyoto.

• Ideal Stay: 4–5 days is ideal to fully explore Kyoto’s cultural and natural beauty.

• Standby Likelihood: Flights to Japan in February are less crowded than during cherry blossom season, making it easier to snag a seat.

Our Hotel Recommendations:

• Hoshinoya Kyoto ($$$) – A luxurious riverside ryokan offering private boat access, serene views, and a mix of traditional and modern comforts.

• The Celestine Kyoto Gion ($$) – A stylish hotel with spacious rooms, a tranquil courtyard, and a location near some of Kyoto’s most famous temples.

• Piece Hostel Sanjo ($) – This affordable, modern hostel features private rooms, a cozy lounge, and an unbeatable central location for exploring the city.

Savannah offers an idyllic mix of Southern charm, historic beauty, and a romantic atmosphere that feels timeless. The Historic District is like a living postcard, with its cobblestone streets, vibrant squares, and stunning antebellum architecture. Spanish moss drapes the trees, creating a dreamy backdrop for couples.

Savannah’s slower pace encourages intimate strolls through Forsyth Park, cozy dinners at charming restaurants, and leisurely shopping for one-of-a-kind treasures. The city is also home to a thriving food scene, where you can share local delicacies like shrimp and grits or pralines. For Valentine’s Day, many of Savannah’s restaurants and inns host special events, making it a truly romantic escape.

• Fly into: Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV)

• Getting to the City: A quick 20-minute taxi or rideshare ride takes you from the airport to the Historic District.

• Ideal Stay: 2–3 days is perfect to soak up the city’s charm while leaving time for relaxing strolls and romantic meals.

• Standby Likelihood: February is a slower travel month to Savannah, so your chances should be good over Valentine’s Day week.

Our Hotel Recommendations:

• The Alida Hotel ($$$) – This boutique property blends Southern elegance with modern design. Enjoy rooms with river views, a rooftop bar, and thoughtful amenities like a library filled with local books.

• The Marshall House ($$) – A historic inn featuring cozy rooms, original 19th-century details, and nightly wine receptions. Its central location makes it easy to explore the city on foot.

• The Thunderbird Inn ($) – A retro-chic option offering affordable rates, free coffee and doughnuts, and a quirky charm that’s fun and welcoming. It’s located close to all the major sights.

Venice is pure magic, with its unique setting of canals, bridges, and historic architecture. The city feels like it was designed for romance, offering couples an escape into a world of timeless beauty.

February brings cooler weather and fewer crowds, allowing for a more peaceful experience in this iconic city. Valentine’s Day adds a touch of enchantment, with candlelit gondola rides and intimate dinners at hidden trattorias.

• Fly into: Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE)

• Getting to the City: Water taxis or the affordable Alilaguna boat service can bring you directly to the main island from VCE.

• Ideal Stay: 3–4 days is perfect for soaking in Venice’s beauty and charm.

• Standby Likelihood: February is off-season for Venice, so flights are generally less full, making standby travel easier.

Our Hotel Recommendations:

• The Gritti Palace ($$$) – A historic palace turned luxury hotel, offering opulent suites and Grand Canal views. Its location near St. Mark’s Square makes it ideal for sightseeing.

• Hotel Antiche Figure ($$) – A stylish hotel overlooking the Grand Canal, with Venetian-style decor and friendly staff. It’s steps from the train station for easy access.

• Hotel Guerrini ($) – A cozy, family-run hotel with simple yet comfortable rooms, located close to the main tourist areas but tucked away on a quiet street.

Napa Valley is a haven for couples seeking a luxurious, indulgent getaway. Known for its world-class wineries, Napa offers a romantic escape that combines stunning landscapes, exceptional wine, and gourmet dining.

February brings cooler weather, fewer tourists, and a slower pace, making it an ideal time to savor the valley’s beauty. For Valentine’s Day, many wineries host special tastings or events tailored for couples, and cozy vineyard picnics are an unforgettable way to connect with your partner.

• Fly into: San Francisco International Airport (SFO) or Oakland International Airport (OAK), both about 1.5–2 hours from Napa.

• Getting to the City: Renting a car is your best bet, giving you the flexibility to explore the region.

• Ideal Stay: 3–4 days allows time for winery tours, fine dining, and some much-needed downtime.

• Standby Likelihood: Flights to the Bay Area tend to be less crowded in February, making this a great standby-friendly option.

Our Hotel Recommendations:

• Auberge du Soleil ($$$) – This luxurious resort is nestled in the hills, offering private balconies, a serene spa, and Michelin-star dining for couples who want to truly indulge.

• The Meritage Resort and Spa ($$) – With vineyard views, an on-site wine cave, and a relaxing spa, this hotel balances luxury with value. The outdoor fire pits are perfect for cozy evenings.

• Napa Valley Lodge ($) – An affordable, charming option located near Yountville. Enjoy complimentary breakfast, a heated pool, and proximity to some of the best wineries.

Paris is the ultimate destination for romance, and Valentine’s Day only amplifies its allure. The City of Love enchants couples with its iconic landmarks, cozy cafes, and cobblestone streets perfect for hand-in-hand strolls.

February brings a quiet charm to Paris, as the city is less crowded and even more intimate. Imagine starting your day with a fresh croissant in Montmartre, wandering the quaint streets, and marveling at the Basilica of Sacré-Cœur with sweeping views of the city. For more ideas on how to make the most of your time in this magical city, check out our Layover Guide to Paris.

• Fly into: Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG), the main international airport for Paris.

• Getting to the City: Take the RER B train into central Paris (about 35 minutes) or a taxi for convenience.

• Ideal Stay: 4–5 days lets you see the highlights and savor Paris’s romance at your own pace.

• Standby Likelihood: Midweek flights to Paris in February offer a better chance of clearing, especially on less popular routes.

Our Hotel Recommendations:

• Hôtel Plaza Athénée ($$$) – A Parisian luxury icon with plush rooms, Eiffel Tower views, and a romantic ambiance. Couples will adore the in-house Michelin-starred restaurant.

• Hôtel Le Littre ($$) – A cozy option in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood, offering spacious rooms, a peaceful courtyard, and a welcoming atmosphere.

• Hôtel Chopin ($) – This charming boutique hotel is tucked away in a historic passageway, offering a peaceful retreat close to vibrant shopping and dining areas.

What’s your favorite Valentine’s Day destination?