Part of our Luxury & Honeymoon Travel series. Start with the pillar guide: How to Plan a Honeymoon.
Where you go matters. When you go matters just as much.
A dream beach in the wrong month can mean rain, wind or crowds. The right month turns the same place into a postcard. Use this season-by-season guide to match your wedding date to the right destination.
Weather varies year to year. Check current forecasts and travel advice before booking.
Winter: December to February
Cold at home, so go somewhere warm.
- The Maldives. The dry season runs roughly December to April. Calm seas and plenty of sun, at higher prices. Our Maldives holiday guide explains how to plan it.
- The Caribbean. Dry, warm and lively over the winter months. Book early for the festive period.
- Iceland. Not for sun, but for the Northern Lights and geothermal pools. Cosy and dramatic.
Spring: March to May
Shoulder season is often the sweet spot.
- Italy. The Amalfi Coast and Lake Como come to life in spring. Mild days, fewer crowds, flowers everywhere.
- Greece. Late spring is warm without being fierce. Islands are open and calm.
- The Maldives. Still good in March and April before the wetter months.
Summer: June to August
Peak holiday season for Europe, so expect heat and crowds.
- Greek islands. Hot, bright and lively. Pick smaller islands for quiet.
- The Amalfi Coast. Glamorous and busy. Book restaurants and boats ahead.
- Bali. The drier months run roughly from April to October, making summer a strong choice.
Autumn: September to November
Often the best value of the year.
- Italy and Greece. Warm seas, softer light and thinner crowds in September and October.
- The Maldives. The wetter season can bring lower rates and quiet resorts. Showers often pass quickly.
- The Caribbean. Hurricane season runs through much of this period, so check carefully and consider flexible bookings and insurance.
How to choose
- Start with your date. Many couples have a fixed window.
- Decide what you want. Beach, culture, adventure or a mix.
- Check the weather for that month. Not the destination’s reputation.
- Set a budget. Season changes prices a lot. See how much a honeymoon costs.
- Think about the villa. If you are tempted by the Maldives, read overwater villa vs beach villa.
Rachel’s Tip
Go in the shoulder season where you can. You usually get better weather than you fear and better value than you hoped.
Plan the whole trip
Choosing the place is the first step. For the full process, from dates to flights to the little details, follow our guide to how to plan a honeymoon.
