When it comes to your wedding, the honeymoon is often the icing on the cake, which you and your partner will no doubt dream about and look forward to with great excitement at the end of your planning journey and celebrations.
Our 2024 UK Wedding Report, based on feedback from almost 6,000 married and engaged couples, sheds light on where couples are choosing to spend their hard-earned getaway together. From the sun-drenched beaches of the Maldives to the romantic streets of Italy, we’ll explore the most popular honeymoon destinations for 2024, and see how preferences vary across the different generations, which might help you make a decision if you’re planning your own honeymoon soon.
If you’re looking for even more honeymoon destinations to consider, be sure to also check out our post on the best honeymoon destinations in the world.
And if you’re not even sure how to go about choosing your perfect honeymoon in the first place, our dedicated post is sure to help you out!
Gen Z: Exotic escapes and adventure
1) The Maldives
Gen Z couples are opting for far-flung, exotic destinations that promise adventure, luxury, and Instagram-worthy moments. Leading the way is, perhaps unsurprisingly, the Maldives, a tropical paradise famed for its overwater bungalows and crystal-clear waters. 15% of Gen Z honeymooners are heading to these idyllic islands, seeking the ultimate in luxury and seclusion.
2) Greece and Italy
Following this, 14% of Gen Z newlyweds are choosing Greece, drawn by its stunning postcard-perfect islands like Santorini and Mykonos, with their whitewashed buildings, azure seas, and vibrant nightlife. Italy is equally popular, with 14% of this generation favouring its romantic allure – think gondola rides in Venice, historical explorations in Rome, and wine tasting in Tuscany.
3) The Carribean Islands
The Caribbean Islands are also a favourite here, with 14% of Gen Z couples opting for these sun-soaked islands. With picture-perfect beaches, a lively culture, and all-inclusive resorts, it’s no wonder they’re a favourite.
4) Bali and the continent of Africa
Bali and Africa are also emerging as trendy spots for 2024 honeymoon destinations, each attracting 7% of Gen Z honeymooners. Bali’s lush landscapes and spiritual retreats, alongside Africa’s breathtaking safaris and unique experiences, are captivating the adventurous spirit of this young generation.
Millennials: Culture, comfort, and nostalgia
1) Italy
Millennials are balancing their desire for cultural immersion with the comfort of well-established tourist destinations. Italy tops the list for Millennials, with 11% choosing its arts scene, history, and culinary delights. From the canals of Venice to the vineyard-packed hills of Tuscany, Italy offers a range of experiences that appeal to this generation’s refined tastes.
2) Greece
Greece follows closely, with 13% of Millennial couples heading to its picturesque islands. The allure of sun, sea, and ancient Greek history makes Greece a versatile destination for honeymooners seeking both relaxation and exploration.
3) The Caribbean Islands
The Caribbean Islands again rank highly, with 12% of Millennials favouring this tropical paradise. Known for its luxury resorts and laid-back vibe, the Caribbean provides the perfect setting for unwinding after the excitement of a wedding.
4) The Maldives
The Maldives continues to captivate too, with 10% of Millennials opting for a peaceful time away surrounded by luxury and nature all at once.
5) Disney Holidays
We were so excited to see Disney honeymoons make an appearance here, attracting 6% of Millennial honeymooners. It’s surely the blend of nostalgia and fun that makes Disney parks a top choice for starting married life.
If you’re interested in a Disney wedding rather than a Disney honeymoon, we’ve also got some great posts on how to plan a Disney wedding, plus some super fun and creative Disney themed wedding ideas to inspire you in your planning!
Gen X: Preference for Familiar Comforts
1) The UK
Gen X, often characterised by their pragmatic approach, shows a strong preference for destinations within the UK. A significant 20% of Gen X honeymooners choose to stay in the green and pleasant land of England, perhaps valuing the convenience and familiarity of local spots, plus it’s likely cost-effectiveness. The picturesque countryside, historic cities, and choice of coastal towns offer plenty of romantic getaways without the hassle of long-haul travel.
2) Greece
That said, this generation is very much still up for exploring Europe. Greece continues to be a top destination, attracting and 10% of Gen X honeymooners.
3) Italy
Italy follows closely, attracting 8% of Gen X honeymoons. The blend of cultural heritage and culinary delights are surely a huge part of the appeal!
4) The Caribbean Islands
The Caribbean Islands also feature in Gen X’s top choices, with 8% heading to its gorgeous tropical shores. The region’s reputation for luxury and relaxation makes it a reliable favourite.
5) The Maldives
The Maldives, though less popular with this group compared to younger generations, still draws 7% of Gen X couples, who look to seek out its exclusive resorts and indulge in a honeymoon of pure luxurious relaxation.
Common threads and emerging trends
Across all generations, certain destinations like Italy, Greece, and the Caribbean Islands maintain their appeal, which highlights their timeless attractiveness as honeymoon spots. These locations offer a mix of romantic settings, interesting cultural days out, and varied activities that cater to a wide range of couples.
We’ve also highlighted a noticeable trend towards more adventurous and less traditional honeymoon destinations. Bali, Africa, and Mexico are gaining traction nowadays, particularly among younger couples. These destinations offer plenty of cool, unique experiences, from exploring ancient temples and enjoying tropical beaches in Bali, to setting off on unforgettable safaris in Africa.
The rise of the Maldives
The Maldives stands out as a particularly interesting case. Its significant popularity among Gen Z and Millennials may underscore a shift towards seeking exclusive, luxurious, and remote destinations.
The rise of social media and the desire for unique, photogenic experiences must play a key role in this trend. The Maldives, with its stunning overwater villas and incredible marine life, provides a super romantic, picture-perfect backdrop.
Plan your perfect honeymoon
Our 2024 UK Wedding Report paints a picture of ever-evolving honeymoon trends over time, generation by generation and region and region. While older couples generally lean towards familiar and convenient destinations, younger generations are increasingly embracing adventure, luxury, and that ‘out-of-the ordinary’ experience. The Maldives, Italy, Greece, and the Caribbean Islands emerge as top choices, each offering their own unique feel and ambiance.
Whether it’s sipping wine in a romantic Italian vineyard, lounging on a tropical beach, exploring ancient Greek ruins, or dancing to Caribbean rhythms, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing the destination of a lifetime. As travel becomes more accessible and couples seek to create unforgettable memories together from the word ‘go’, the world is truly your oyster!
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