February 06, 2023

Ranking 2023's Most Popular Romantic Destinations According to TikTok

A new year is upon us, and with that comes a wealth of exciting opportunities to explore every corner of the globe. The choices are, quite simply, endless, with some cities offering a host of romantic settings for you to enjoy some quality time with your partner.

With so many options in Europe and beyond, it can be difficult to narrow down your choices and find the perfect location for a cozy getaway. However, social media can help us to uncover a selection of unique destinations which are outside of the usual tourist hotspots.

At DiscoverCars.com, we were eager to explore this further, so we ranked the top 23 romantic locations around the world according to the popular social media video-sharing app TikTok.

To do this, we analyzed the number of views on each location's hashtag. We also found a romance-themed hashtag related to each location, to get an idea of the number of users talking about love in each destination before combining the total views and ranking them.

Methodology

We looked at 23 locations, all renowned for being the best places to travel to throughout 2023, according to a seed list from Forbes.

We then used TikTok to find the top hashtag used in relation to the location as well as one commonly used for romantic getaways and then recorded the combined number of views to score and rank each city accordingly.

Doha, Qatar

#Doha & #DohaLove - 7,401,800,000 combined views

Placing first in the ranking as the most romantic city for 2023 according to TikTok was the Qatari city of Doha. The city's hashtags racked up an impressive 7.4 billion views on the platform, proving just how popular this capital city is.

Fresh off the back of hosting the World Cup, the city of Doha is fairly new, having been founded in the 1820s and made Qatar's capital in 1971. The luxurious city oozes wealth and offers couples shopping malls such as the Villaggio and astonishing experiences in the Museum of Illusions.

Perth, Australia

#Perth & #LoveInPerth - 6,800,051,800 combined views

In second place was the Australian city of Perth. Aside from Doha, Perth was the only location in the ranking to have over one billion views on TikTok. These two locations proved much more popular on the platform than the other 21 in our ranking.

Known as the 'City of Lights,' Perth is one of the most isolated cities in the world, with most of Australia's cities located in the east of the country, while Perth is situated in the west. The city is perfect for a romantic break with its many picturesque locations, such as the Swan River and Fraser Avenue Lookout.

Queenstown, New Zealand

#Queenstown & #LoveQueenstown - 555,059,400 combined views

In third place is Queenstown of New Zealand. The destination received over 555 million views on TikTok with the hashtags #Queenstown and #LoveQueenstown. As seen above, this beguiling location offers picturesque views of the Southern Alps.

Queenstown is the perfect choice for adventurers with so many activities to indulge in, including bungee jumping off the Kawarau Gorge Suspension Bridge or skiing in the mountains when the temperature cools. This location is perfect for active couples that like to get out and about.

Svalbard, Norway

#Svalbard & #LoveInNorway - 520,301,766 combined views

Ranking in fourth place as the most popular romantic destination is the Norwegian archipelago of Svalbard. #Svalbard and #LoveInNorway received over 520 million views on the platform, with users often showing off the breathtaking snowy landscapes.

Svalbard is a quiet destination with a population of around 2,700, meaning that there are more polar bears than people. It is one of the most northern inhabited regions in the world and offers couples a wealth of activities, including the Svalbard Museum and Svalbard Brewery.

Marrakesh, Morocco

#Marrakesh & #MarrakechLovers - 439,718,600 combined views

In fifth place was the Moroccan city of Marrakesh, which racked up nearly 440 million TikTok views with the hashtags #Marrakesh and #MarrakechLovers. The city, which is the fourth largest in Morocco, was founded in 1070 and has remained popular with visitors ever since.

Marrakesh is an impressive location that is also known as the 'City of Luxury,' because couples can visit beautiful palaces and 5-star hotels and make use of the spas which are dotted throughout the city's riads.

Siem Reap, Cambodia

#SiemReap & #CambodianLove - 426,506,206 combined views

Placing sixth in the ranking is the city of Siem Reap in Cambodia. The historic city received over 426 million views on TikTok with the hashtags #SiemReap and #CambodianLove. With so much history and amazing architecture, it's clear to see why this location is so popular.

Siem Reap is the second largest city in Cambodia and is packed full of amazing temples and waterways. The city is home to Angkor Wat, a temple complex that is the largest religious monument in existence. This gorgeous city is certain to set a romantic tone for any couples choosing to travel here.

Lausanne, Switzerland

#Lausanne & #LausannesLover - 402,302,415 combined views

Ranking in seventh place, the Swiss city of Lausanne received over 402 million views on TikTok under the hashtags #Lausanne and #LausannesLover. The city is found in the French-speaking region of the country and is situated on the beautiful Lake Geneva.

Lausanne is a small but beautiful city with a population of under 200,000. The destination is known for its multicultural values and lakeside views, with couples having the chance to hop on a cruise or visit the Lausanne Cathedral.

Shimla, India

#Shimla & #ShimlaLove - 297,172,300 combined views

Next, the Indian city of Shimla placed eighth in the ranking for the most popular romantic cities to visit. #Shimla and #ShimlaLove received just over 297 million views on TikTok, and the city is known for its location on the foothills of the Himalayas.

Shimla is the capital city of the Himachal Pradesh state and is home to several markets, making it a great destination for couples to shop. The location is also famous for its walking experiences throughout its foothills, which are surrounded by pine and oak forests.

Lecce, Italy

#Lecce & #LoveLecce - 272,202,044 combined views

In ninth place ranked the Italian city of Lecce, with the destination receiving over 272 million views on TikTok under the hashtags #Lecce and #LoveLecce. Lecce is well known for its Baroque architecture, while the central Piazza del Duomo is home to the impressive Cattedrale di Lecce.

Situated in southern Italy, Lecce is a historic city that has a reputation for being a safe and respectful location for tourists. Couples can indulge in some sightseeing with the Centro Storico and even try their hand at cooking classes at The Awaiting Table Cookery School.

Lake Louise, Canada

#LakeLouise & #LakeLouiseLove - 243,503,894 combined views

Away from Europe, Lake Louise in Canada ranked 10th, with the location receiving over 243 million views on TikTok with the hashtags #LakeLouise and #LakeLouiseLove. The Canadian hamlet is one of the most impressive natural beauties in the world.

Lake Louise is a glacier-fed hamlet that offers astonishing views of the mountains and lake. The destination is a very popular ski resort that combines natural beauty with snow-based activities. This extremely romantic location is perfect for couples looking to escape from city life.

Menorca, Spain

#Menorca & #MenorcaLove - 213,770,100 combined views

Placing 11th in the ranking was the Spanish island of Menorca, with the area racking up over 213 million views on TikTok with the hashtags #Menorca and #MenorcaLove. The location is one of Spain's Balearic islands and is a popular holiday destination.

Menorca is a sunny island located in the Mediterranean sea and is perfect for couples who prefer a sun-filled holiday. Unlike other Balearic islands, Menorca is much more lowkey, with less of a focus on the party lifestyle. Instead, couples can explore the harbor found in the island's capital of Mahon.

Provence, France

#Provence & #ProvenceMyLove - 212,423,000 views

Next, the Provence region of France placed 12th on the ranking. The picture-perfect location received just over 212 million views on TikTok with the hashtag of the same name and #ProvenceMyLove.

The Provence region, which is in the southeast of France, is home to diverse landscapes, including lavender fields, farms and vineyards. The destination is much quieter than other areas of France, such as Paris or Marseille, and offers couples a chance to escape the busy city and truly relax and enjoy the countryside.

Paros, Greece

#Paros & #ParosLover - 141,217,800 combined views

Ranking as the 13th most romantic location according to TikTok, the Greek island of Paros received over 141 million views on the platform with the hashtags #Paros and #ParosLover. This stunning island is found in the Aegean sea and is a popular tourist destination.

Known for its pristine beaches and beautiful blue sea water, Paros is a perfect sunny destination for couples in need of a break in the heat. The area is home to several nightclubs and beach clubs and therefore has a thriving nightlife for couples to experience together.

Megève, France

#Megève & #FranceLovers - 57,256,200 combined views


In 14th place and the second French location to make the ranking was Megève. The village is the first location on our list to receive under 100 million views, with the hashtags #Megève and #FranceLovers acquiring over 57 million views on TikTok.

Found in the Alps in southeast France, the village is known for its adrenaline-filled skiing options. The area's impressive resort offers chalets, slopes and even designer outlets - making it perfect for keen shoppers. Couples traveling to Megève should be sure to pack their ski gear and be ready for a very adventurous trip.

Pereira, Colombia

#PereiraColombia & #ColumbiaLovers - 54,105,700 combined views

In 15th place in the ranking, the Colombian city of Pereira received over 54 million views on TikTok under the hashtags #PereiraColombia and #ColumbiaLovers. This South American city is found in the west of Colombia and is known for growing coffee, specifically mild Arabic beans.

Pereira is a city full of beautiful views as it's found in the central mountain range of the Otún River Valley. The city offers couples plenty to keep them busy, including the Pereira Art Museum and the Cathedral of Our Lady in Poverty.

Paso Robles, USA

#PasoRobles & #RoblesInLove - 44,000,862 combined views

Placing 16th in the ranking and the first American location to make the ranking, Paso Robles received 44 million views on TikTok with the hashtags #PasoRobles and #RoblesInLove. The Californian city is a popular destination for those passionate about wine due to the abundance of vineyards in the area, as well as over 200 tasting rooms for couples to take advantage of throughout their trip.

There's also the chance to sample olive oil tasting and horseback riding and, in addition to this, the Paso Robles Pioneer Museum features plenty of historical artifacts, including a 19th-century schoolhouse and a reconstructed jail. Surrounded by hills, Barney Schwartz Park has a beautiful lake and picnic spots.

Valletta, Malta

#Valletta & #LoveInMalta - 36,033,100 combined views

Ranking in 17th place, the capital city of Malta, Valletta, received just over 36 million views on TikTok with the hashtags #Valletta and #LoveInMalta. The quaint walled city is found on the main island and is home to around 5,700 people.

Established in the 1500s, Valletta is a historic city home to medieval relics in St John's Co-Cathedral, which is an eye-catching Baroque building. The Upper Barrakka Gardens and the Valletta Waterfront offer a more romantic setting for couples to take a stroll, unwind and watch the sunset at the end of the day.

Alentejo, Portugal

#Alentejo & #AlentejoLovers - 31,356,800 combined views

In the 18th place was the Portuguese region of Alentejo. The area received just over 31 million views under the hashtags #Alentejo and #AlentejoLovers. Similar to Provence in France, this location offers grassy landscapes, farms and vineyards but also provides breathtaking beaches for couples to make the most of.

Alentejo is a picturesque area of the country that boasts a mix of countryside and beach areas. The region is known for its olive groves, rivers and dams. Cuisine in the region includes olives, fresh bread and hearty stews. The wine region is also packed with vineyards for taste testing.

Antalya, Turkey

#Antalya & #AntalyaLove - 25,107,070 combined views

Next, in 19th place in the ranking, the Turkish city of Antalya received just over 25 million views on TikTok under the hashtags #Antalya and #AntalyaLove. The Turkish resort city is a popular holiday destination in the summer months, with many families flocking to the sunny city for a much-needed break.

The city is also a perfect option for a getaway retreat as it offers couples several romantic settings, such as the Lower Duden Waterfalls and the Old City Marina. Antalya is also known for Lycian Way, the longest trekking trail in the country, so be sure to pack your walking boots.

Big Sky, Montana

#BigSkyMontana & #MontanaEngagement - 18,805,100 combined views

Placing 20th in the ranking and the second American location to make the list, Big Sky, which is located in southern Montana, received nearly 19 million views on TikTok with the hashtags #BigSkyMontana and #MontanaEngagement. The area is home to a resort in the Rocky Mountains, which attracts skiing and cycling fans from all over the globe.

The popular resort also allows couples to indulge in a host of other wholesome activities, such as rock climbing, rafting and fishing. The destination is a perfect choice for adventurous couples who are looking to stay active while traveling.

Colca Canyon, Peru

#ColcaCanyon & #PeruvianLove - 9,000,000 combined views

In 21st place in the ranking, the Colca Canyon in Peru received nine million views on TikTok with the hashtags #ColcaCanyon and #PeruvianLove. Described as one of the world's deepest river canyons, the attraction in the southern part of this South American country is on the bucket list for many travelers.

Colca Canyon measures 3,400m, which is twice as deep as the Grand Canyon. The location is popular among birdwatchers for its condors. Couples can expect to embark on long treks to make the most of the canyon's awe-inspiring views.

Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands

#VirginGorda & #BVILove - 3,687,300 combined views

Virgin Gorda of the British Virgin Islands ranked in 22nd place. The location received just over three million views on TikTok with the hashtags #VirginGorda and #BVILove. The island is the third biggest among the British Virgin Islands and is home to around 3,500 people.

This Caribbean island is known for its beautiful white sand beaches and crystal clear pools, and the area is a popular choice for tourists due to The Baths, which are unique geologic formations of granite boulders.

Naoshima, Japan

#Naoshima & #JapanInLove - 491,800 combined views

Rounding off the ranking and placing in the 23rd spot, the Japanese town of Naoshima received over 490 thousand views on TikTok with the hashtags #Naoshima and #JapanInLove. The island town is found in the Seto Inland Sea and is renowned for its architecture, while being a hotspot for art museums, including the Chichu Art Museum and Ando Museum.

Overall, we hope that our ranking of the most romantic destinations around the world has helped you narrow down your options to select the perfect location for your next couples' getaway.

There are so many unique choices dotted around the world, with some more focused on skiing while other destinations are more art focused. That's why we believe there is something out there that's suitable for every couple.

If you're looking to rent a car for your next winter trip, please consider choosing us as we're a leader in online car rental bookings. This is because we compare car rental deals from many companies so that you can choose the best deal for your individual family's needs.

We also operate in more than 145 countries and 10,000 locations, so we're sure to have the car rental deal for you, no matter which destination you choose for your next romantic adventure.

Aleksandrs Buraks

Head of Growth at DiscoverCars.com
Aleksandrs has over 10 years of experience in marketing with a focus on creating stellar content that provides topical insights using data. Having taken five road trips across Europe and one in the U.S., he is passionate about traveling by car. His favorite countries to visit are Denmark and Thailand. You can find him on Linkedin, Facebook, and Twitter.