Wanderlust Couple Around the World: Best Destinations in Asia
From bustling mega cities to secluded tropical paradises, Asia has an incredibly diverse range of destinations for couples seeking adventure. With low costs, convenient transport and so much culture and natural beauty to explore, it’s a dream continent for backpackers.
This ultimate guide covers 15 of the top spots across East, South and Southeast Asia. Whether you’re interested in beach escapes, mountain trekking, historical sites, nightlife and cuisine, you’ll find inspiration for crafting the perfect travel itinerary.
Let’s dive in to these best destinations in Asia for wanderlust couples!
Table of Contents
- Bali, Indonesia
- Bangkok, Thailand
- Seoul, South Korea
- Hanoi, Vietnam
- Siem Reap, Cambodia
- Singapore
- Tokyo, Japan
- Taipei, Taiwan
- Langkawi, Malaysia
- Ella, Sri Lanka
- Mumbai, India
- Luang Prabang, Laos
- Hoi An, Vietnam
- Vang Vieng, Laos
- Great Wall of China
- FAQs
Introduction
With its mix of cultures, landscapes and city vibes, Asia has become a sought after backpacking destination for couples looking to spend quality time together exploring this fascinating region.
This guide covers some of the top spots across South, Southeast and East Asia recommended for couples based on factors like safety, ease of travel, unique sites and romantic ambiance.
Whether you’re interested in taking cooking classes in Thailand, hiking mountain trails in Taiwan or exploring pagodas in Myanmar, you’re sure to find inspiration for crafting your dream itinerary.
These destinations offer great transport between cities, excellent street food options and lodging catered to backpackers. You can comfortably explore Asia on a budget as a couple.
Let the adventures begin!
Bali, Indonesia
From beaches to jungles to ornate temples, the Indonesian island of Bali packs a lot of punch. Surf trips, jungle treks and yoga retreats are just some of the options for couples.
Top experiences include:
- Chasing epic sunsets and surf breaks along the Bukit Peninsula’s cliffs
- Exploring lush jungle and black sand beaches in Amed
- Sampling street food at the Ubud markets and Monkey Forest
- Finding hidden cliffside temples like Pura Lempuyang
With nonstop daily flights, great nightlife and so many unique Airbnbs, Bali is a couples’ paradise.
Bangkok, Thailand
A hyperactive melting pot, Thailand’s capital offers endless energy with bustling markets, rooftop bars and a pumping nightlife scene.
Top attractions include:
- Taking a longboat through vibrant floating markets
- People watching from buzzing cafes and malls
- Getting couple’s massages at affordable spas
- Dancing until dawn at Khao San Road’s legendary nightlife
Bangkok’s chaotic charm and mouthwatering food will leave you eager to explore more of Thailand.
Seoul, South Korea
An underrated gem, Seoul blends old and new with sacred temples, tranquil gardens and futuristic cityscapes.
Top activities include:
- Locking your love at Namsan Tower surrounded by city views
- Exploring the traditional Korean homes of Bukchon Hanok Village
- Bar and restaurant hopping in hip Hongdae until the sunrise
Seoul offers so much for couples to experience together, from ancient history to today’s Korean culture.
Hanoi, Vietnam
From Hoan Kiem Lake to the atmospheric Old Quarter, Vietnam’s charismatic capital entices couples to immerse themselves in the city’s electric culture.
Highlights include:
- Sipping Vietnamese coffee at sidewalk cafes
- Photographing ornate pagodas like One Pillar Pagoda
- Sampling famous pho noodle soup and banh mi sandwiches
- Wandering the bustling Old Quarter’s maze of alleys
Hanoi’s distinctive energy will leave you in awe of Vietnam’s vibrant spirit.
Siem Reap, Cambodia
The gateway to Angkor Wat, Siem Reap also shines in its own right with atmospheric markets, festivals and a friendly local vibe.
Top sights:
- Watching the sunrise over magnificent Angkor Wat
- Exploring mystical jungle temples like Ta Prohm
- Taking a street food tour of Siem Reap’s tasty local cuisine
From ancient history to modern hospitality, Siem Reap is a couples’ delight.
Singapore
This multicultural hub blends tropical lushness with gleaming urban living in an easy to navigate package.
Top attractions include:
- Eye-popping city views along the Singapore River
- Exploring unique ethnic enclaves like Little India
- Nightlife hopping to Marina Bay’s swanky rooftop bars
Cosmopolitan yet affordable, Singapore makes a perfect intro to Southeast Asia.
Tokyo, Japan
Japan’s sprawling capital blends skyscrapers with peaceful gardens, ancient temples and hyperactive pop culture.
Top highlights:
- Taking romantic strolls under the pink cherry blossoms in spring
- Getting lost in the sensory overload of neon-lit Shibuya crossing
- Exploring hip fashion and cafe districts like Harajuku and Shimo-Kitazawa
- Dining at the lively food stalls of Tsukiji fish market
Tokyo’s endless stimulation will give your senses a joyride.
Taipei, Taiwan
A vibrant and modern capital, Taipei wows couples with an impressive skyline, bustling night markets and hillside hiking trails.
Attractions include:
- Taking the super fast elevator up Taipei 101 for 360 degree city views
- Gorging on xiaolongbao soup dumplings at Din Tai Fung’s flagship location
- Hiking lush Yangmingshan National Park right in the city
Taipei seamlessly blends urban luxury with nature at its best.
Langkawi, Malaysia
With postcard-worthy beaches and lush jungle interior, this Malaysian island paradise beckons couples looking for a tranquil escape.
Highlights include:
- Exploring otherworldly mangrove forests perfect for kayaking
- Ziplining over lush greenery at Langkawi’s eco adventure parks
- Beach hopping to find your perfect swath of white sand
- Taking in epic views along the Langkawi Sky Bridge suspended high in the mountains
With luxury resorts and budget digs, Langkawi offers something for all couples seeking beachfront romance.
Ella, Sri Lanka
Offering misty mountain hikes, verdant tea plantations and charming guesthouses, Ella is a backpacker haven hidden in Sri Lanka’s hills.
Top attractions include:
- Photographing the iconic Nine Arch Bridge and countryside vistas
- Sipping Ceylon tea at local factories to learn about the process
- Browsing the central Ella Walkway’s handicraft stalls and cafes
- Trekking to Ella Rock or Little Adam’s Peak for stunning views
Eco-friendly Ella provides the perfect balance of adventure and chill.
Mumbai, India
India’s most exciting metropolis, Mumbai dazzles couples with its grand colonial architecture, scintillating Bollywood nightlife and delicious street food.
Highlights include:
- People watching on Marine Drive’s breezy seaside promenade
- Exploring artistic cafes and bookshops in artsy Kala Ghoda
- Trying famous snacks like pani puri and bhel puri at Mumbai’s street carts
- Taking the train to explore ancient Elephanta Island’s cave shrines
Vibrant and glamorous, Mumbai embodies India’s colorful spirit.
Luang Prabang, Laos
Resting between the Mekong and Nam Khan Rivers, this former royal capital entices couples with over 30 gilded temples and a serene mountain backdrop.
Top experiences include:
- Rising at dawn to witness the daily Tak Bat monk procession
- Learning to make Laotian specialities during a Mekong River cooking class
- Immersing yourself in spiritual chanting during a temple visit
- Exploring the surrounding countryside on bike between rice paddies and villages
With its tranquil riverside setting, Luang Prabang is sheer romance.
Hoi An, Vietnam
This historic port city on Vietnam’s central coast shares a beguiling mix of Chinese, Japanese and French influences. It’s also known for made-to-order tailors.
Top sights include:
- Wandering the car-free Ancient Town lined with colorful buildings and lanterns
- Cycling through emerald rice fields and country villages
- Relaxing on white sand beaches like An Bang
- Getting custom outfits made from the city’s talented tailors
For culture and charm, few places compare with enchanting Hoi An.
Vang Vieng, Laos
Nestled along the Nam Song River with imposing karst peaks, this once quiet town has blossomed into Laos’ adventure capital with hiking, caving, biking and more.
Top activities include:
- Tubing down the river and playing at riverside bars
- Trekking to crystal blue lagoons and caves filled with stalactites
- Taking in magnificent mountain views while hot air ballooning
An outdoor paradise tailored to adventurous couples and friends traveling together.
Great Wall of China
Stretching thousands of miles across northern China, the Great Wall offers couples a look into this country’s grand history and diverse landscapes.
Don’t miss:
- Watching the sunrise over iconic watchtowers threading across mountains
- Hiking different sections from steep to gentle passing lush scenery
- Avoiding crowds at remote and wild sections beyond Beijing
Walking this ancient engineering marvel together is a one-of-a-kind experience.
FAQs
What months are best for visiting Asia?
Fall and spring have ideal weather without summer heat or monsoon rains. Late Feb through April sees blooming cherry blossoms!
What languages are most commonly spoken across Asia?
English is widely spoken in major tourist areas, but learning some basic phrases in the local language always helps!
What are the best ways to get around Asia?
Buses, trains and domestic budget airlines provide affordable transport between cities. Taxis and tuk tuks work well for shorter distances.
Is backpacking in Asia safe?
Yes, for the most part if you use common sense. Stick to established tourist spots, avoid flashing valuables, and research areas ahead of time.
Conclusion
We hope this guide has fueled inspiration for an unforgettable couples backpacking trip in Asia! With so many affordable destinations, you could spend a year exploring this incredibly diverse and fascinating continent.
Begin planning your route by selecting destinations that speak to both your interests. Stay flexible, say yes to unexpected detours and focus on creating memories together.
Wherever you go, keep an open mind, a sense of adventure and embrace each new experience. The only limits are those you set yourself.
Asia awaits, wanderlust couples! Pack those bags and get ready for the trip of a lifetime.