Have the Ultimate European Honeymoon Using This Couple's Itinerary

Destination: Paris, France

After a glamorous summer wedding, Aimée and Craig set off to the City of Love to begin their luxurious, five-star European honeymoon. The newlyweds spent six nights at Saint James Paris, a stunning château-hotel near the famed Arc de Triomphe and Trocadéro, just across the Seine from the Eiffel Tower. “It was an absolute dream!” attests Aimée.

The honeymooners loved everything about the property – from the old-world ambience of Le Bar Bibliothèque to the magnificent gardens and grounds frequented by the in-residence cat Pilou. “I was in awe of every masterfully crafted architectural detail,” she adds. As a last-minute decision that quickly became a highlight, the couple hired a local photographer to join them at the exquisite property for a couple hours. “I recommend scheduling a honeymoon photo shoot in advance to professionally preserve a beautiful memory with your love,” Aimée suggests of the cherished souvenir.

With so many appealing landmarks throughout the city, the newlyweds admit it was difficult to get to everything on their list due to the desire to relish in each experience – and battling the summer crowds. “The hardest part is choosing which places to go! There is so much to see, so be very selective,” Aimée notes, recommending pre-purchasing tickets and visiting must-see sites early to avoid longer lines. As they had to compromise on a few destinations, “We decided to make a ‘next time in Paris’ list,” she smiles.

Highlights of Paris, France

Exploring the city. “We did a lot of walking to get a feel for the city, taking in the views with a croissant and latte in hand.” 

Savoring their stay. “The hotel restaurants – including Michelin-starred Bellefeuille – and touring of the grounds is an activity in itself!” 

Experiencing the Louvre. “There is an endless amount of incredible art. We were both very inspired!”

Destination: Saint-Tropez, France

After a week in Paris, Aimée and Craig took the train to Saint-Tropez, calling Hôtel Lou Pinet their home away from home for four nights. The hotel provides a peaceful, vintage style, which delighted the honeymooners, who loved the chic aesthetic, as well as sipping rosé poolside at sunset and sampling the restaurant’s locally sourced fare. “We wanted to bon voyage our marriage like the Old Hollywood legends that famously frequented the South of France in the 1960s,” Aimée explains.

Just a stone’s throw from the famous Place des Lices, the property’s reliable shuttle service provided easy access for the couple to enjoy the boutiques, bars, and restaurants lining the Port de Saint-Tropez marina. Renowned for the gleaming yachts that dock there to take part in the bustling nightlife, the destination is a must-visit for dinner and dancing at lively restaurants, including the pair’s favorite: L’Opéra. “They dance on dining tables after dinner is finished!” Aimée describes of the spirited Saint-Tropez experience.

Highlights of Saint-Tropez, France

Dancing the night away. “Going out on a Saturday night in this area is an experience to be had – especially at our favorite spot, L’Opéra.” 

Dining by the marina. “The concierge was beyond helpful with recommendations and reservations… We were able to get tables at the height of busy tourist season.” 

Driving the coastline. “We were awed by the illustrious coastline drive to Nice. It has a very idyllic energy, reminiscent of classic films… Perfect honeymoon scenery!”

Destination: Amalfi Coast, Italy

Aimée and Craig’s journey continued south to Italy’s breathtaking Amalfi Coast, where they stayed at Anantara Convento di Amalfi Grand Hotel for two nights. Built into the cliffside and overlooking the sea, the converted 13th-century monastery provided a spectacular setting from which to explore the region. “It’s one of a kind!” Aimée adds.

As their hotel was nearby the bustling town center, the honeymooners enjoyed shopping for souvenirs and gifts, walking the beaches, and yachting along the coast. They also indulged in an array of epicurean experiences, from fine-dining restaurants including Michelin-starred Glicine to local gelato and sorbetto di limone served in a lemon at Sporta Marina. A quick trip to the island of Capri capped off their coastal sojourn.

Highlights of Amalfi Coast, Italy

Shopping for souvenirs. “The prices were reasonable for many quality ‘Made in Italy’ items, such as gold jewelry and superior luggage pieces.” 

Sailing the coast. “Being on the water with a glass of prosecco, snacking on charcuterie delights was an ultimate luxury moment.” 

Dining at Glicine. “The views and Italian-coastal heart of the atmosphere felt surreal. I was also pleased that they had plantbased options!”

Destination: Rome, Italy

As the couple was admittedly tired by the time they arrived to J.K. Place Roma for the final five nights of their honeymoon, the Italian red wine and charcuterie provided upon arrival was much appreciated. “I’ll never forget the crispness of the bed linens, so cooling and high in thread count,” adds Aimée, sharing that they relaxed in the room quite a bit to take shelter from the heat and cherish their final moments on the trip of a lifetime.

Located in the heart of Rome, the intimate boutique hotel offers an ideal home base for exploring the Eternal City. The newlyweds spent their days walking along the cobblestone streets and taking in the beauty and history around every corner. “Romantic local accordion and saxophone players add a romantic finishing touch,” Aimée notes of the street musicians they encountered near the Roman Forum. One of her favorite sites was the Vatican, where they toured the museums and St. Peter’s Basilica. “The Renaissance art was beyond incredible, and the Basilica di San Pietro is possibly the most beautifully crafted place I’ve ever seen!” she notes.

Highlights of Rome, Italy

Marveling at the sites. “Just quick trips to the Colosseum, Pantheon, and Roman Forum were sufficient for us to take in the grandeur of these historical archives.” 

Touring the Vatican. “Seeing the Sistine Chapel was so much more than I could have imagined. I felt transformed by the experience!” 

Enjoying local bites. “Local wine and pizza are delicious! Monte d’Oro was our pick.”

Though Aimée and Craig would happily return to each of their selected destinations, they suggest other honeymooners limit the number of locations – perhaps saving Italy’s capital for another trip – in order to spend more time on the coast. Aimée sums up their dream honeymoon: “It was so romantic and incredible!”

European Honeymoon Tips from Aimée & Craig:

“Don’t try to visit too many areas that require a plane, train, or ferry to reach, or you’ll wear yourself out!” 

“Pack lightly and plan to find laundry service if taking trains or ferries while in Europe. Don’t underestimate how much you will struggle with excess baggage.” 

“When packing, choose a color palette that will coordinate together – that way, garments can be worn again with ease and it’s then possible to cut down on shoes packed.” 

“To tour the Vatican Museums, you must follow a strict dress code of modesty to enter. It is a must-see!” 

“Research the weather forecast in each location prior. Although the height of summer provided us with mostly sunny days, I didn’t have the proper attire for the rainstorms.”

This story was originally published as a Travel Diaries feature in the Summer 2024 issue of Inside Weddings magazine. To order a copy of the Summer 2024 issue, visit our library of Inside Weddings back issues available for purchase.