The Best Anniversary Trips, Chosen by a Travel Advisor

Anniversary travelers are different from honeymooners. You may have children at home and less time, or you may be empty nesters with more freedom and higher expectations. So the list mixes short, high-impact city breaks with longer journeys for milestone years.

Every pick offers privacy, exceptional food and at least one experience you’ll remember together, whether a sunrise drive in the delta or a private dinner on a motu.

Returning works beautifully when you upgrade the experience: a villa instead of a garden room, a different island in the same archipelago, or a vow renewal. Many resorts in French Polynesia arrange Polynesian-style vow renewal ceremonies; they’re symbolic rather than legal, and lovely.

Going somewhere new suits couples who want to feel the thrill of discovery again. A safari is a favorite for a reason: shared wildlife moments and intimate camps make it feel like a second honeymoon. See our honeymoon safari guide for camp styles.

Milestone years, such as the 10th, 25th or 40th, justify a splurge; other years might call for a long weekend done well. If your anniversary falls in a destination’s off-season, consider traveling a few weeks earlier or later; our where-to-go calendar shows what shines each month.

The smartest lever is to splurge selectively: one or two nights in a top suite, then a well-chosen standard room. At Virtuoso partner hotels, you typically receive daily breakfast, a property credit and an upgrade when available. Our guide to hotel upgrades has more ideas.

Book 6 to 12 months ahead for milestone trips and peak seasons, and longer for Tetiaroa or small safari camps. Let hotels know it’s your anniversary at booking; many add a thoughtful touch, though it’s never guaranteed.

Planning a surprise? Check passport validity quietly, ask a friend to confirm dates, and give your partner a packing hint. Gigi coordinates private dinners, guides and transfers so the trip runs itself.