Our month-by-month guide to couples' holidays

Escape the dreary weather of the Northern Hemisphere's winter and embark on a romantic getaway for couples to Argentina in January. Start your adventure in Buenos Aires, dancing the tango together in sultry milongas or strolling hand in hand through the charming streets of San Telmo, before setting off to Mendoza to savour world-class Malbecs amidst picturesque vineyards on a wine tour. The adventurous among you may wish to explore the breathtaking landscapes of Patagonia, where you can hike hand in hand through rugged mountains and marvel at pristine lakes. End your trip in Iguazu Falls, one of the world's most magnificent waterfalls and a truly awe-inspiring sight that's sure to leave a lasting impression. Its mix of exhilirating natural beauty and effervescent nightlife makes it one of the best holiday destinations for young couples.

In February, Dubai offers a blend of warm weather and romantic experiences that's perfect for a getaway for couples. Turn your back on the winter chill and bask in the sunshine as you explore the city's iconic landmarks, such as the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Fountain. Indulge in a romantic dinner cruise along Dubai Marina, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the city skyline while dining under the stars. Relax on pristine beaches, take a desert safari for an unforgettable adventure, or pamper yourselves with a couple's spa day at one of Dubai's luxurious resorts — almost nothing is out of reach here. With its signature mix of indulgence, adventure, romance, and impeccable service, Dubai is the ultimate couples' holiday destination for those seeking elevated levels of luxury and one of the best holiday destinations for young couples in particular.

Spring may be in the air, but one guaranteed way to put a spring in your step is with a magical March couples getaway to the Maldives. You're probably familiar with the images: soft, talcum-powder white sands stretching into unearthly shades of turquoise, rattan-topped over-water bungalows gazing out over the Indian Ocean, and reefs packed with more fish varieties than the London Aquarium. The reality, however, has to be seen to be believed. March is the ideal time to visit the Maldives as a couple, too, because not only is the weather at its best (boasting long days filled with sunshine and relatively little rain), but the sea is also approaching its top temperature. So, you can delve into the underwater paradise that dwells beneath the water's twinkling surface and garners the Maldives a top spot on every marine lover's must-see list. If the prospect of dining amid a sheath of tropical starlight, the waves washing dreamily ashore and the sounds of geckos distinct in the thick night air doesn't get your romantic juices flowing...well, we don't know what to tell you. 

April in Japan heralds the arrival of cherry blossom season, blanketing the country in a delicate pink hue. Couples can stroll hand in hand beneath the blooming sakura trees, indulge in traditional tea ceremonies, explore historic temples and gardens, and familiarise themselves with the multifaceted Japanese cuisine (turns out, there is a lot more to it than sushi and ramen) during exquisite kaiseki dinners amidst breathtaking scenery. It's a magical time for romance in Japan. From the neon-lit phantasmagoria of Tokyo, a place that feels at once completely alien and yet oddly familiar – thanks to its frequent appearances in popular culture – to the unassuming serenity of Kyoto, the nation's spiritual heartland, or the perhaps surprisingly beautiful beaches of its tropical islands: Japan captures the hearts of almost all who come here, making it the perfect place to cement your relationship and create memories to cherish forever.

Get your early summer fix of stunning scenery and cosmopolitan culture in exuberant Cape Town, arguably the Rainbow Nation's most enchanting city. In May, the Cape begins to cool down, welcoming guests (and giving locals some reprieve) with crisp autumn days and mild temperatures, making this month an ideal time for a romantic getaway to South Africa. Embark on scenic hikes up Table Mountain, enjoy afternoon tastings in the nearby Winelands, and explore the ever-lively streets of the historic city centre; home to art galleries, boutiques, and cafes. Of course, you can also indulge in world-class cuisine at waterfront restaurants, sun yourselves along beautiful beaches, and admire breathtaking views over the Atlantic Ocean. With its captivating cocktail of wild natural beauty, cultural richness, and culinary delights, Cape Town makes for a fantastic couples' holiday destination – while an inherent spirit of adventure lends it well to an adult-only holiday.

Ah, the Amalfi. Home to pastel-hued villages perched along cliffsides; narrow, bougainvillaea-lined cobble pathways inevitably leading to a trattoria where you are bound to be served something delicious, and emblematic beaches scattered with the European jet-set and some of the most effortlessly stylish people you are ever likely to see. If we could, we would be there right now (with, or without our partners). Head there in June, as the summer season gets into its stride and these iconic vistas come alive with the clink of Aperol glasses and spirited chatter that drifts in on a fragrant sea breeze. We often hear about the Italian idea of la dolce vita and, while it might mean different things to different people, you and your mate will certainly get a feel for what it is all about as soon as you set foot on the absolutely inimitable Amalfi. 

July in Bali marks the height of the dry season, meaning balmy weather and vibrant energy that sets the stage for a dreamy romantic escape in a true tropical paradise. As a place to reconnect with your body, Bali is hard to beat, offering a wealth of physical activities from surfing and snorkelling to rafting and hikes. But it's also a great option for a meaningful spiritual retreat, allowing you to recentre and reconnect with yourselves and one another as you explore ancient temples shrouded in mist, trek to hidden waterfalls where the thundering sound of water on the rocks creates a meditative effect, and gaze out over Ubud's terraced rice paddies, unchanged for centuries. These two facets combine to create one of the best holiday destinations for young couples, in particular, who may be looking for a blend of action and adventure with spirit-soothing serenity (and some cracking nightlife thrown in). Talk about having your cake and eating it too.

Sun-kissed swathes of beach, Martian desert terrain, seemingly endless forests filled with sky-scraping Redwoods, laid-back coastal hideaways and uniquely characterful cities: the Golden State takes first place in our pick of couples' holiday destinations in the USA. Its sheer variety alone is enough to draw you in — and keep you coming back time and time again. One day, you can be strolling along Hollywood Boulevard, seeing what makes Tinsel Town tick, while the next is all about sipping premium vinos in the sprawling vineyards of Napa Valley or a hike through the magnificence of Yosemite (that leaves you feeling small and insignificant in the best way possible). Cap it off with almost year-round sunshine, incredible roads made for driving adventures, and more eclectic cuisine than you can possibly pack into a month's worth of pit stops and you've got a heart-stealing, unmistakably West Coast concoction.

Some things just seem too good to be true. A 75% off sale at your favourite shop. Crisps that help you lose weight. Securing a prime spot in the beer garden on one of those perfect sun-filled Friday afternoons in summer. French Polynesia is among these things, possessing a beauty so rare and a soul so profoundly heart-stealing that, upon touching down back at home, you'll have to ask yourself: "was it all a dream?". Dream no more. Grab a hold of your chosen person and make for one of the world's true paradises; a place that feels as if it were designed with love in mind. Discover the gateway to the archipelago in Tahiti, exploring its vibrant markets and otherworldly black beaches; admire the views of Mount Otemanu on Bora Bora; or make the most of the incredible snorkelling and diving found beneath the pearlescent waters of the lesser-known islands like Moorea or Huahine — where the lush emerald rainforest and soaring volcanic peaks add to the engulfing, fantastical feeling. If it's an adventure to a far-flung corner of the globe you're after, it doesn't get much more exotic than this.

Sweeping desert-scapes for as far as the eye can see, punctuated by hazy, mirage-like oases of pale green pools of water, and towns where history isn't a lesson at school and heritage isn't an abstract concept but bleeds into daily life through food, music, and the omnipresent hospitality you're sure to encounter. Oman is one of the undisputed jewels of the Middle East, and a great alternative to more conventional couples' holidays to Dubai. Visiting Oman in October offers couples a delightful blend of pleasant weather and cultural experiences. It's an ideal time for romantic adventures with temperatures cooling down from the summer heat. Explore the enchanting souks of Muscat, embark on a desert safari in Wahiba Sands, or wander hand in hand through the ancient forts of Nizwa. Think it's all inland seas of sand and arid terrain? Think again. Oman — the gift that keeps on giving — is home to beaches that rival the finest in the world (and you'll often have them all to yourselves). Then there are the fjords of Musandam, which look like Norway's famous water features with a suntan. With its breathtaking landscapes and rich traditions, Oman in October promises an unforgettable couples holiday overflowing with moments of romance and discovery amidst stunning natural beauty.

Thailand is always a good idea. But November is one of the best opportunities to experience the many magical draws of this Southeast Asian nation. Temperatures at this time of year are generally more favourable than later in the dry season and humidity levels are lower, making it possible to enjoy the plethora of outdoor activities without melting into a human-shaped puddle infused with sun-cream and Singha beer, and the peak season is yet to kick into high-gear so you can enjoy a slightly more sedate pace and intimate experiences. There are, of course so many options for how to spend your time on your couples' holiday in Thailand. Journey from fantastically mad cities, including the neon-lit wonderland of Bangkok, to the laid-back allure of the islands — where the 'Land of Smiles' isn't just a cheesy name, but evident all around you. Once the preserve of backpackers and tie-dye-swaddled hippies, many of the islands now offer a range of sophisticated accommodation options and fine dining establishments which, more often than not, celebrate the irresistible flavours of traditional Thai cuisine and harness their full potential with modern techniques. Though, if you are looking for barefoot beach vibes, those can be easily found too.

Round out the year with an ethereal experience in Finnish Lapland: a place to witness the awe-inspiring beauty of the Northern Lights as they dance across an inky black sky, or get cosy in front of a roaring fire with a glass of glögi — and everything in between. Embrace the peculiar calm of snowshoeing through pristine forests, ice fishing on frozen lakes, or bone-warming traditional Finnish saunas. You can also glide through snow-covered landscapes, guided by eager dogs or gentle reindeer, for an experience that brings you closer to nature. With its magical winter wonderland scenery and abundant outdoor activities, Finnish Lapland offers the perfect romantic escape for couples seeking a blend of adventure and serenity. So grab your long-johns and your festive cheer and let's head to Europe's icy north.