Your honeymoon should be all about relaxing after the stressful process of planning your big day. But what if budget (having spent most of it on your wedding venue) and time restraints mean that a long-haul romantic holiday on an exotic island isn’t feasible? If you can manage at least a long weekend, then these easy to reach mini-moon destinations are only a short flight or road trip away…

If you are looking for a touch of the exotic, Morocco has the perfect combination of vibrant culture and luxurious boutique hotels, and all just a three-hour flight from the UK. Choose from the bustling city of Marrakech, or travel a little further into the foothills of the Atlas Mountains for a more tranquil break in one of the many spa hotels with stunning scenery. We recommend at least three or four days here if you want to make the most of what Morocco has to offer.

For lovers of art and history, good food, and fine wines, this stretch of coastline in Southern Italy is the choice of many celebrities. Why not take a romantic road trip along the fascinating coastline, stopping in tiny villages to soak up the stunning views across the Mediterranean Sea? In between relaxing on the beautiful beaches, there is plenty to see including the Island of Capri and the towering Vesuvius. The old-school elegance of the 14th-century apartments dotted along the coast is perfect for couples who want to visit somewhere unspoiled by modern tourism and experience the true local cultures.

Despite some thinking of it as a cliché, if you have never been to Paris, there isn’t a more romantic place to choose for your mini-moon. With flights under an hour from the UK, you can be immersed in the Parisian lifestyle and experiencing the city of romance in no time. Home to some of the world’s most beautiful architecture, such as the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, and the Notre Dame Cathedral, there is plenty to see and do. Visit the chic side street cafes during the day and the glittering city bars at night. Placing a padlock on the famous Archbishop’s Bridge is a must for newlyweds.

Perched high on the cliffs of this beautiful volcanic island, in peaceful Imerovigli, there are plenty of luxurious spa hotels to choose from for an exclusive and romantic getaway. The sparkling blue sea, hundreds of feet below the whitewashed villages is just as beautiful at night as it is during the day. Relax and take in the stunning sunsets from the caldera rim at night whilst enjoying the fantastic local cuisines. Fill your afternoons relaxing by the pool or with boat trips to the surrounding islands and sights, such as the lava islets or the ancient Thira ruins.

If looking for the perfect skiing mini-moon location, look no further than the idyllic mountain village of Zermatt. The quaint cobblestone paths and wooden Swiss chalets are nestled below the iconic Matterhorn, standing at 14,692 feet. Experience the amazing slopes then spend your evenings relaxing by the fire in one of the many luxurious five star hotels. Besides skiing and spa treatments, you can make the most of your short break by shopping in the town, hiking in the mountains, and dining in exquisite restaurants.

Harper’s brand new boutique hotel is set in a former glass-blowing factory in the picturesque village, Langham. If you’re looking for a staycation mini-moon, then escape to this romantic hideaway and soak up the beautiful scenery that North Norfolk has to offer. The hotel has 32 bedrooms, each with its own unique design, including a four-poster bed and fresh house cocktails stocked in the fridges. You will also find enomatic wine fridges in The Den and Ivy’s, spa facilities, and a refreshingly informal restaurant offering an exceptional menu with local ingredients. Here, you will discover a whole new side of North Norfolk luxury… and you wouldn’t be blamed if you found it impossible to leave.

There are numerous benefits to booking a mini-moon for just after your wedding.

• Time to save for a bigger honeymoon in the future.
• Enjoy the first few days of married life, away from the environment of your home.
• If you have children, it might be nice to escape for just a few days for some alone time.
• If you don’t want to travel abroad, a mini-moon in the UK can be just as lovely.
• You won’t need to stress about packing for a huge holiday – right before your big wedding day.
• Budget wise, a mini-moon will be pocket-friendly and doesn’t have to be as lavish as a full-blown honeymoon.
• You could head back to the desitination where you got engaged, if it is within easy reach / or the destination you met, if it was abroad or not where you both live now.
• Travel within the UK – you’ll be close to home and it won’t cost a fortune.