A trip to Europe always sounds like a fun idea, but going far away can come with a high price tag. Cost can be prohibitive if you want to whisk your sweetheart off to Europe for a vacation. However, our honeymoon ideas in the US can have you feeling like you’re exploring another country.
6 European Feeling US Honeymoon Ideas
Wondering what is the best place to honeymoon? Our list will inspire you! You don’t have to go far to find European charm and experiences right here in the US.
Many of these getaway destinations are just as fabulous as quaint towns overseas. Here are 6 fabulous US honeymoon ideas that only feel like a fantastic European getaway.
1. Instead of going to Lisbon, Portugal, go to San Francisco, California
San Francisco is a beautiful place to go instead of many European towns. This coastal California city has tons of great seafood, iconic bridge views, and cable cars too.
San Francisco has a welcoming vibe for travelers that you might recognize if you’ve ever been to Lisbon.
2. Instead of going to Madrid, Spain go to St. Augustine, Florida
Did you know that St. Augustine was settled back in the 1500s by the Spanish? Of course, it’s not the 1500s anymore. However, much of the Spanish influence is still present in St. Augustine today.
You’ll find it in the city’s architecture, especially at the Grand Hotel Ponce de Léon. This city definitely fits in with our good honeymoon ideas, even if Spain isn’t your inspiration.
3. Instead of going to Cyprus, Greece go to Mount Desert Island, Maine
Mount Desert Island is the second-largest island on the east coast. Therefore, you’ll find Bar Harbor as well as Acadia National Park here.
Mount Desert Island has the same hiking and coastal views that you could find in Cyprus. It also has a plethora of historical sites. Maine might not hold the same Greek appeal, but it does have many of the same experiences.
4. Instead of Paris, France, go to New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans is famous for its Cajun and creole cuisine, live music, and stunning architecture. However, New Orleans has the same amount of both class and romance that you’ll find in Paris.
While this place might be missing the Eiffel Tower, you can still see so many sites and enjoy delicious Southern eats here.
5. Instead of Bavaria, Germany go to Leavenworth, Washington
In the Cascade Mountains, you’ll find Leavenworth, Washington, which will remind you of a Bavarian village. This city has a ton of German culture and art. Additionally, you’ll find the architecture in this mountain town as well.
The Alpine-style buildings and food halls serve German beer and brats. Plus, you’ll also find a fun Oktoberfest celebration in the fall.
6. Instead of Rome, Italy go to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
You won’t find a Roman Colosseum here. However, Philly is rich and history as well as some fantastic architecture. Philadelphia has British and German roots.
Although if you’re going to Rome for the landmarks, you’ll find your own U.S. version of this right in Philadelphia.
No matter when you are getting married, these U.S. destinations should be at the top of your list! They are way cheaper than a plane ticket to Europe. Additionally, they are sometimes better or just as good.
You’ll find many of the same appeals here in the US that made you think about heading to Europe in the first place.
Love these romantic getaway ideas? Save it!
Photos: Juan Burgos, Brandon Nelson, Daniel Norris, Madison O’Friel, Michael Bennett, Leo Serrat
Sherianne HigginsLoving all your suggestions! I haven’t been to St. Augustine, Florida but I love Madrid and this has piqued my interest. I never would have compared Paris to New Orleans but now that you mention it I can see the similarities and feel a long weekend is in order. I plan to stop in Leavenworth Washington this fall and am excited to see it.
AgnesPerfect combination and comparison of European and American cities! And great ideas for a honeymoon. Especially in pandemic times, when traveling is still a little bit challenging. In fact, in New Orleans, you can feel a bit like in Paris and San Francisco, like in Lisbon. I haven’t been to St. Augustine, Florida. I have to go to compare with Madrid.
Linda (LD Holland)We are always looking for new getaway locations. How fun to find some in the U.S. that have a European vibe. I do have to agree that New Orleans has a very Paris-like atmosphere. And we did smile when we visited Leavenworth with its Bavarian feel.
ReneeI am obsessed with this article! First of all, I love Europe and so knowing that there might be some similar places closer to home to get my fix sounds perfect to me!
RakshaWow this is a new perspective of seeing the places in US. I have not been to any of these 6 places but I would love to visit them. I would love to visit them. And yes sometimes we forget to see places within our own country but we are always intrigued by other places outside of a country. I love this post for highlighting the places within US itself.
ClariceThis is nice and very timely since traveling now is a bit limited. Love the idea of staying at New Orleans instead.
We haven’t been to Leavenworth but yes, we’d love to enjoy and celebrate
Carol ColbornI have been to all six and yes, you get a taste of Europe in them! Great idea!!!
Bhushavali NEurope like places in USA? That would be one cool honeymoon! St.Augustine looks nice. Good to know that Spanish influence is still existing there! Leavenworth, Washington looks gorgeous. I’d love to do some hikes here. German beers are available too! That’s perfect!
Medha VermaI have actually travelled around Europe more than the US (probably because of geographical proximity, I live in the Middle East) and I’m surprised to see that there are such lovely alternatives in the US to some of the most romantic cities in Europe. I do love San Francisco, and I can see why you drew the parallel between Lisbon and SF. I’d love to visit Mount Desert Island in Maine someday!