16 Romantic Staycation Ideas for Couples: Ideas for Everyone

If 2020 has taught us anything, it’s that sometimes a romantic staycation is the only way to go.

It saves you time, money, and puts you in control of planning the perfect low key couple of days for your partner. 

But what if you didn’t grow up watching rom-coms, or don’t have that creative gene that helps you plan the perfect weekend of romance and surprises?

Don’t stress, because after growing up devouring all the classic lovey-dovey movies and books, I’m kind of the queen of spontaneous, romance-filled activities. 

I’m always the one that friend’s partners come to when they’re trying to plan the perfect surprise romantic gesture. 

In particular, I’ve helped with some really romantic staycation ideas throughout the years.

Read on to find all the inspiration you’ll need to plan the perfect romantic staycation for you and your special someone. 

Cuddle Up by the Fire

What could be more romantic than cuddling up with your sweetheart by the fire?

If your fire is inside, open a bottle of wine, make a charcuterie board, and get cozy.

If you’re lucky enough to have the space to have an outdoor fire, grab a bench, or lay some blankets on the ground for a sweet late night picnic situation. 

Obviously, you’re going to want supplies to make s’mores, and either a bottle of wine or some spiked hot chocolate to keep you extra cozy.

Enjoy Breakfast in Bed

Breakfast in bed is one of my favorite pleasures! Especially when it involves early morning cuddles with my favorite person. 

The best part is that it doesn’t have to be complicated, it can be fresh coffee, and a pastry.

It’s a relaxing no phones allowed time, where you and your partner can reconnect without the chaos of starting the day. 

Assuming your staycation is more than one day, consider alternating who gets out of bed to make breakfast. 

Plan a Movie Marathon

My favorite part of movie marathon nights is that there’s no reason to debate what movies to watch, you each can pick one.

My love and I like to each write out a list of the top ten movies you’d like to watch. Then swap lists and let the other person narrow it down to one or two they’re most excited to see. This way, everyone wins!

Next, just decide on your favorite takeaway order and grab a bottle of wine or supplies for your favorite cocktails. 

You’ll be cuddled up and cozy on the couch in no time. 

Just make sure you don’t forget to order dessert. Trust me, you’ll want it by the time the second movie has begun. 

Go on a Picnic

Anyone who’s dated me knows that I love a romantic picnic, especially when it’s a sunset one before Shakespeare in the Park. 

Find a picturesque park or beach in your city, and pack accordingly. You’ll want a blanket, plastic cups, a bottle opener if you’re bringing wine or beer, and of course plenty of food. 

I like to pick up some pre-made items like tabouli salad, a fresh baguette, hummus, cheese, prosciutto, and something sweet.

Bonus points if you mix cocktails ahead of time to enjoy during your picnic.

Cook a Romantic Meal Together

Cooking together is always an adventure as a couple. It’s one of my favorite things to do, as I find it to be a major bonding experience. 

My sweetheart and I would cook together at least once a week as a mini date night while we were living together. 

We’d always mix cocktails, drink, and sometimes even dance while we cooked, which just added a lot of laughter in the kitchen as the cooking went on.

It’s a fun idea to each brainstorm a few new recipes if you want to have a bit of an adventure in the kitchen.

If you’re hoping for something easy and classic, grab some steaks and few of your favorite vegetables. 

Either way, I recommend grabbing some candles, wine, and obviously something sweet for dessert. 

Go For a Drive or Walk

Depending on where you’re located, plan a period of time to get out of the house, and either drive or walk around. 

If you’ve got wheels, pick a nearby place you’ve both been wanting to explore and make a day out of it. 

Bonus points if you rent a convertible for the day!

Or if you’re in the city, choose a neighborhood or bar you’ve both been wanting to check out, then walk to it. 

Book a Local Hotel

If you feel like getting out of your home for a bit, book a stay at a posh local hotel.

You can pack a few sexy outfits and take a break from reality for a while.

Ideally, you can chill by the pool, order room service, and even book spa treatments. 

Plus, there’s the option of breakfast (or even dinner) in bed, without either of you having to do the cooking!

Hit Up a Museum

Plan an afternoon to stroll around a museum with your special someone. 

My favorite day date activity during the winter in New York is exploring the MET and then comparing notes on what each of our favorite pieces was over a bottle of wine.

I’ve found you can really learn a lot about a person based on the art they identify with.

If you don’t have a museum in your city, consider taking a little road trip to the closest town with one. 

Plan a Game Night

A little friendly competition can be very sexy. 

Plan a game night filled with your favorite board games. If you really want to take it to the next level, add in some drinking games, and maybe even a round of strip poker.

Take a Class Together

I believe learning is a lifelong process, and more fun when done with the person you love.

Plan an afternoon to take a cooking class together. You can both learn new skills and dishes that will benefit you for years to come.

If cooking isn’t your thing, check out a local art or a dance class.

Have a Spa Day

I wish every day could be a spa day. It’s seriously one of my all-time favorite luxuries to indulge in.

You’ve got two options, you can either book yourselves couples treatments at the local spa, or buy some massage oil and face masks for a spa night in. You can even take turns giving each other massages.

Don’t forget the candles and maybe a few flower petals to put in a romantic bath at the end of the night. 

Have a Fancy Hometown Date Night

Book reservations at the fanciest restaurant in town. Then dress up and have a glamorous night out. 

Take at least one cute photo together while you’re both dressed up and before the drinks start flowing. Trust me, unless you’re selfie obsessed, you’ll regret not having more photos together. 

After dinner, make a night out of it and hit up a cocktail bar to continue your special evening out.

Recreate Your First Date

If you really want to do something sweet and personal, plan to recreate the first date you went on together. I guarantee your thoughtfulness will melt your lover’s heart. 

You could even arrive separately, and act like you’re meeting up for a first date. Bonus points if you bring flowers for your date!

Schedule a Wine Tasting

If you’re lucky enough to live near a vineyard, schedule a tour and wine tasting one afternoon. There’s nothing better than flowing wine, dark cellars, and beautiful vineyards.

As an alternative, you can also try finding a high-end restaurant or wine bar that offers tastings.

You could even buy a few bottles ahead of time and have a private wine tasting at home. You can both research the bottles, find some food pairings, and compare tasting notes.

Go Camping

If you’re both outdoorsy, plan a little camping trip either in your backyard or at a nearby campground. You can go hiking during the day and cuddle up together under the stars at night. 

Assuming you’re like me and want something a bit more comfortable, consider glamping. It’s become a real trend over the years, which means there’s likely somewhere near your home that offers it. 

Spend All Weekend in Bed

Sometimes the best part of a staycation is just staying in bed all weekend, especially if you make the bedroom a tech free zone.

You should also set the mood by investing in new bedding or a cozy weighted blanket, candles, some quality wine, massage oil, cozy robes, and maybe even some flowers or new lingerie.

Then just cuddle up and enjoy each others company without the distractions of the outside world.

Before Your Staycation Ends…

While you’re planning your perfect romantic staycation, keep these things in mind.

It’s easy to get distracted, especially when trying to relax in your home. Put away your to-do list, power down your electronics, and focus on only yourself and your partner. 

I know it’s easier said than done, but remember your relationship needs time and attention. Your partner deserves to feel like they’re your only priority during your romantic staycation. 

I promise your work and to-do list will still be there waiting for you at the end of your break. 

It also really doesn’t matter what activities you do with your time as long as it ends with both of you feeling rested, reconnected, and loved. 

I truly believe making the person you love feel cared for is the most romantic gesture of them all.

Let me know in the comments below what your favorite couple’s staycation activity is!