How to Pick the Right Type of Honeymoon

How to pick the right type of honeymoon can feel tricky when both sandy beaches and cobblestone streets sound dreamy. I get it, this is your first big trip as a married couple, and you want it to feel just right. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the differences between an island-style honeymoon and a European adventure, so you can figure out what matches your vibe, your budget, and your love story.

At DWD Travel, we believe your honeymoon should feel like the perfect start to your marriage, not a source of stress or guesswork. Whether you’re dreaming of beachy island vibes or a European escape full of charm, we help couples pick the right type of honeymoon for their love story, travel style, and budget. Follow along on Instagram for real trip inspiration and planning tips, or reach out, I’d love to help you plan the perfect honeymoon.

Couple swimming underwater in clear blue water, capturing romantic island vibes - How to Pick the Right Type of Honeymoon

Same Love, Different Luggage — How to Pick the Right Type of Honeymoon for Your Style

Every couple is different. One of you might dream of sipping drinks under the sun with no schedule. The other might want to explore art museums and try local food in different cities. You don’t have to want the same things, but you do want a honeymoon that feels true to both of you. Knowing your honeymoon style makes it easier to pick the right type of honeymoon, and we’re here to help you do just that.

Want even more honeymoon ideas? Check out our guide on where to honeymoon based on your couple’s personality. It might surprise you!

The Case for Island Vibes: Chill, Romantic, No-Brainer Beauty

If you want ease, romance, and tropical beauty, an island honeymoon might be your perfect match. Picture this: calm waves, warm breezes, slow mornings, and long walks on the beach. There’s something magical about doing nothing together. A beach honeymoon is a reset after the wedding stress. You don’t have to plan much. You can stay in one spot, eat amazing food, swim, and just be with each other.

Many beach resorts offer all-inclusive options, which makes planning (and budgeting) simple. You can book a package that includes food, drinks, activities, and even airport transfers. From the moment you land, everything is taken care of.

Curious how your travel style fits into your honeymoon plans? Read our guide to custom honeymoon itinerary ideas for adventure and culture lovers.

Romantic beach picnic setup with coffee, juice, and fresh fruit- How to Pick the Right Type of Honeymoont.

The Case for Euro Adventures: Culture, Charm & City-Hopping

A European honeymoon is full of variety. Think cafés in Paris, train rides through Italy, or exploring castles in Portugal. Every city offers a new feel. You can stroll down historic streets, learn about art and culture, try new foods, and hear languages you may not understand, but love anyway.

If you’re the kind of couple that gets energy from exploring new places, meeting people, and diving into local life, then Europe delivers. You’ll have full days, full hearts, and a photo album packed with unique memories. While it takes more planning than a beach trip, the reward is huge. You’ll come home feeling like you’ve seen and tasted something special together.

Budget Breakdown: What You Get for Your Money

Let’s talk about money, because how to pick the right type of honeymoon often depends on how far your budget can go.

Island honeymoons, especially in Mexico or the Caribbean, tend to offer more value. All-inclusive resorts often cover meals, drinks, transfers, and activities in one set price. You’ll know what you’re spending up front, and direct flights help keep travel simple and affordable.
European honeymoons can be more varied in cost. You’ll need to budget for hotels, transportation between cities, meals out, and entrance fees. Popular spots can get pricey, especially in peak season.
That said, Europe can still be done affordably. Travel in spring or fall to save on flights and lodging. Choose smaller towns for better rates. Mix budget stays with a few splurge nights. Use local transport and markets to stretch your spending without missing the experience.

The right type of honeymoon doesn’t have to be the most expensive, it just needs to feel right for you both.

Not sure where to spend or save on your trip? Read our Honeymoon Upgrades Guide: When to Splurge & When to Save for smart planning tips.

Couple relaxing on a hammock over clear turquoise water, enjoying peaceful island vibes on their honeymoon.

Ease of Travel: Direct Flights or More Moving Around?

After the wedding, you may be tired. A beach honeymoon usually offers direct flights and one hotel. You land, check in, and relax. It’s simple. You don’t need to worry about transportation, schedules, or packing up every few days.

European honeymoons involve more movement. You might fly into one country, then take trains, rent a car, or hop to different cities. If you love the thrill of exploring, that’s part of the fun. But if you want to totally relax, all the logistics might feel like a lot.

Planning your trip? Read How to Avoid Honeymoon Travel Mistakes for tips that help you skip the stress and start your honeymoon with ease.

What Memories Matter Most? How to Pick the Right Type of Honeymoon for You

Close your eyes and think about the moments you want to remember from your honeymoon. The right type of honeymoon should match the feeling you’re chasing.

Picture floating in warm ocean water, laughing as the sun dips low. A beach honeymoon gives you soft, romantic memories, lazy mornings, deep talks, and long walks by the sea. It’s calm, cozy, and full of quiet connection.
Now imagine walking through a lively plaza, sharing gelato, snapping photos in front of landmarks you’ve dreamed about. A European honeymoon brings energy and surprise, markets to explore, hidden cafés to find, and new places around every corner.

So when you’re asking how to pick the right type of honeymoon, start with the feeling. Do you want peace and stillness, or variety and adventure? Both are beautiful. The best choice is the one that fits who you are together.

Not sure where to go? Take our quick vacation quiz to find the destination that fits your travel style. Your perfect trip is just a few questions away.

Cozy Parisian street scene at dusk with the Eiffel Tower in the background and a glowing brasserie.

Can’t Decide? Do Both — Or Let Us Blend the Best of Each

If you’re torn between island vibes and European adventure, the good news is you don’t have to pick just one. It’s absolutely possible to combine both styles into one unforgettable trip. You might start with a few days of beach relaxation, then fly to a charming European city. Or begin with the sights and sounds of Europe, then unwind at the beach before heading home.

Some destinations even offer the perfect mix in one place. Think the Greek Islands, coastal Spain, or the Amalfi Coast, where you’ll find seaside beauty alongside history, culture, and local charm. Blending the two gives you the best of both worlds. You can relax, explore, connect, and celebrate, all in the same trip. It just takes thoughtful planning, and that’s where we come in.

Looking for the most romantic places to honeymoon? Don’t miss our roundup of dreamy destinations made for love and unforgettable moments.