Photo by Khamkéo Vilaysing on Unsplash
Fashion comes into most things and honeymoon destinations aren’t excluded. When I got married in the early 2000s the Maldives were all the rage, as was Mauritius (which is what we finally settled on). Now, however, trends have shifted, and newlyweds increasingly favour destinations that offer a blend of luxury, adventure, and exclusivity. Social media has played a huge role in shaping honeymoon choices, with picturesque overwater villas giving way to secluded boutique stays, eco-friendly resorts, and cultural experiences that go beyond just sun, sea, and sand. Evolving travel preferences has played a significant role in shaping these trends, as modern couples prioritise unique experiences over traditional resort-style holidays.
According to Prezola’s latest survey, Greece, Italy, and the UK have emerged as the most sought-after honeymoon destinations for newlyweds. While classic European hotspots continue to reign, an increasing number of couples are opting for staycations within the UK, highlighting a shift towards domestic travel.
Honeymoon Budgets & Funding Trends
With the rising cost of travel, many couples are turning to honeymoon fund tools to help finance their trips. Prezola found that 68% of couples used a honeymoon fund tool within their wedding registry to cover their honeymoon expenses.
The most common honeymoon budget falls between £2,000 and £3,000. 44% of couples planned their honeymoon within less than six months, indicating a growing trend toward shorter planning timelines. 43% of couples opted for multiple honeymoon experiences, such as a ‘mini moon’ immediately after the wedding, followed by a longer, more elaborate trip later.
The Rise of the ‘Buddymoon’
While honeymoons are traditionally an intimate getaway, 16% of couples said they would consider a ‘buddymoon’—a honeymoon shared with friends or family. This growing trend reflects a shift towards more social, experience-driven travel.
How Couples Are Traveling
The way couples experience their honeymoons is also evolving:
While 40% of newlyweds prefer a single-location honeymoon, another 40% choose to explore three or more places during their trip.
34% of couples admitted that social media heavily influenced their honeymoon choices, showcasing the role of platforms like Instagram and TikTok in shaping travel preferences.
Sustainable & Ethical Travel on the Rise
Modern couples are placing greater importance on sustainability and ethical travel practices. 50% of respondents reported that environmental concerns played a significant role in their honeymoon planning. This signals a growing demand for eco-friendly resorts, carbon-neutral flights, and ethical tourism experiences.
The Perfect Honeymoon: Relaxation, Adventure & Culture
From white sandy beaches to adrenaline-fueled adventures, couples are looking for a well-rounded honeymoon experience. Relaxation, adventure, beaches, and cultural immersion were the top priorities when planning their trips, indicating that newlyweds want both excitement and downtime on their getaways.
Returning to the Romance
For many couples, the honeymoon is just the beginning of a lifelong love affair with their destination. 56% of respondents said they plan to return to their honeymoon spot in the future, proving that these trips create cherished memories that last well beyond the wedding day.
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