Six Eastern European destinations are winning them over
Hari Ganapathy, Co-founder, Pickyourtrail
For decades, Indian honeymooners flocked to the predictable classics — Switzerland for its storybook snow, Paris for its promise of romance, and Greece for its sun-soaked blues. But 2025 has rewritten the rulebook. According to new booking patterns, Eastern Europe has quietly tripled in demand, becoming the continent’s most unexpected and exciting honeymoon hotspot.
Indian honeymooners in 2025 are looking for authenticity over extravagance, culture over clichés and experiences over itineraries.Eastern Europe delivers exactly that with cinematic landscapes without the chaos, centuries-old cities without the crowds, and luxury that feels quietly indulgent rather than overproduced.
These aren’t just places to “visit.” They’re places to feel the textures of local life, the flavours of regional cuisine, and the rhythms of old towns creating honeymoons that feel cinematic, personal, and profoundly yours.
Here are the six Eastern European destinations defining the new honeymoon dream.
1. Georgia – The New Darling of Gen Z Couples
Georgia has quickly become the dark horse of honeymoon travel. It is a place where romance blends effortlessly with rugged landscapes and soul-stirring culture. Couples love wandering hand-in-hand through Tbilisi’s pastel streets, wine tasting in Kakheti, or waking up to Svaneti’s snow-dusted peaks. Add natural sulphur baths, hearty local food, and affordability, and Georgia becomes a dream honeymoon with depth.
Why it’s rising: Visa ease for Indians, direct flight options, and a growing spotlight on Georgian wine culture.
2. Slovakia – For Couples Who Want Europe, Minus the Crowds
Slovakia is where fairy tales hide in plain sight. The High Tatras mountains, the dramatic Spiš Castle, and its tranquil alpine lakes create an idyllic setting for couples seeking romance without tourist chaos. Spend your days hiking quiet trails, soaking in thermal spas, or exploring medieval towns that feel frozen in time.
Why it’s rising: A perfect add-on to Austria, offering luxury honeymoon experiences at far gentler price points.
3. Croatia – Coastal Romance Meets Old-World Charm
Croatia has long been popular, but honeymoon bookings have surged as couples discover it as a softer, more intimate alternative to Western Europe’s summer rush. From sunset strolls along Dubrovnik’s walls to private boat days off Hvar and slow mornings in Split’s ancient squares, Croatia offers the kind of sensory romance that lingers long after the trip ends.
Why it’s rising: Island-hopping, cerulean waters, and coastal boutique hotels offering bespoke honeymoon setups.
4. Slovenia – Europe’s Most Underrated Romantic Escape
Slovenia is where nature takes centre stage — and couples can’t get enough of it. Lake Bled with its lone island church, the wine region of Brda, and Ljubljana’s café-lined riverfront all come together to create a honeymoon that feels scenic yet soulful.
Why it’s rising: Exceptional boutique stays and serene landscapes perfect for slow travel.
5. Hungary – For Couples Who Want Culture Served Hot
Budapest’s thermal bath culture has become iconic, but it’s the city’s after-dark personality that’s making waves among honeymooners. Ruin pubs for lively nights, Danube cruises for soft-lit romance, and baroque architecture for mood-filled photography make Hungary an all-rounder destination.
Why it’s rising: Wellness rituals, vibrant nightlife, and exquisite food culture at accessible prices.
6. Montenegro – The Luxe Yet Low-Key Honeymoon
Montenegro is Europe’s best-kept secret — and a honeymooner’s fantasy. Spend mornings kayaking on the Bay of Kotor, afternoons lounging at chic Adriatic beach clubs, and evenings wandering stone-built towns glowing under string lights.
Why it’s rising: Dramatic landscapes without the crowds; luxury hotels offering discreet, honeymoon-friendly experiences.
As couples shift toward story-driven travel, these destinations aren’t just trending but transforming what a modern honeymoon can feel like.
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