By Erica Curran

When planning a honeymoon, certain destinations naturally come to mind—Paris, with its unmatched flair for romance; Hawaii, with its bright sun and sandy beaches; Tuscany, with its world-class wine and breathtaking landscapes. And while most people would never turn down a trip to these incredible places, some might prefer to spend their first week as newlyweds somewhere a bit more unexpected. These five unique honeymoon ideas may not be the most obvious choices for newlyweds, but guarantee memorable experiences for any couple:

1. Unique Honeymoon Ideas: London

Sure, it's one of the most popular cities in the world to visit, but London isn't necessarily a honeymoon hot spot. However, London is an incredibly welcoming place for all kinds of couples with a range of interests. Do you love bonding over a memorable meal? Believe it or not, London boasts some of the most innovative chefs in the world. Is your ideal date a night at the theater? Book a hotel in Soho and take in its endless entertainment options. For a dose of culture, there are plenty of museums that you can stroll through hand-in-hand, and there are even some picturesque parks separate from the city noise.

2. Portugal

Affordable and easily accessible from most U.S. travel hubs, Portugal has been long overlooked as a European destination—but that's changing. Capital city Lisbon has stunning architecture, romantic restaurants, and winding streets that were made for wandering. There are also multiple overlooks with views over the city and little cafes selling wine and fresh pastries—perfect for whiling away an afternoon in the Portuguese sun. Nearby, Sintra is a picturesque village where you can live out your storybook fantasies. To the south, the Algarve region is home to some of Europe's most stunning (and underrated) coastlines. Wine lovers should visit the Douro Valley, and a stop in Porto is recommended whether you love port or you're just a fan of charming cities.

3. San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

Often forgotten in favor of resort-heavy Mexican destinations like Cancun, Tulum, and Cabo, San Miguel de Allende is a small city perched in the country's central highlands. With colorful buildings, cobblestone streets, and a vibrant art scene, this Unesco World Heritage Site is a natural choice for newlyweds. Take in the local cuisine, browse through the markets, and toast to your new life together with mezcal cocktails.

4. Savannah, Georgia

Nearby Charleston often tends to steal the spotlight, but Savannah is a worthy destination in its own right. Filled with leafy squares, diverse galleries, and memorable restaurants, the city seems to operate at a slower pace than the rest of the world. Like New Orleans, Savannah allows drinking on the streets in the historic district, which means you can take those mint juleps to go and enjoy them on a park bench while watching the world go by.

5. Anguilla

Just 16 miles long and three miles wide, Anguilla gets less attention than neighboring St. Maarten. A British overseas territory, the island is full of beautiful white sand beaches and turquoise water. There's an undiscovered, unspoiled feel to Anguilla, but you'll still find a few luxury resorts with award-winning chefs where you can base your honeymoon explorations.

When planning your honeymoon, don't be afraid to look beyond the obvious. Opting for unique honeymoon ideas can result in a more memorable—and just as romantic—trip that you'll be eager to share with friends and family when you return home.

Credit: Hearts on Fire Blog