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The World’s Most Romantic Destinations and Experiences

The World’s Most Romantic Destinations and Experiences
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Whether it’s for Valentine’s Day or celebrating the one you love, now’s the time to venture into the world of romance!

From Paris to Bora Bora, via Santorini and Venice, discover our selection of the most beautiful romantic places and unforgettable experiences for two.

The World’s Most Romantic Destinations and Experiences - Santorini unsplash

Cappadocia, Turkey

Among the romantic destinations with enchanting landscapes is Cappadocia, Turkey. How about a romantic hot-air balloon ride? Or perhaps explore its mysterious underground cities and cave hotels with an authentic atmosphere?

The World’s Most Romantic Destinations and Experiences - cappadocia turkey unsplash

Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto, Japan, also emerges as a romantic destination with its unique blend of tradition and natural beauty.

What makes it attractive to lovers? Temple-lined alleys, winding rivers, tea ceremonies and, above all, cherry blossom gardens create a magical atmosphere.

The World’s Most Romantic Destinations and Experiences - Kyoto, Japan, pixabay

French Polynesia

In the heart of the Pacific, French Polynesia embodies the essence of romance, offering unique luxury experiences at places like the Intercontinental Thalasso Bora Bora and Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea.

Overwater bungalows, breathtaking sunsets, diving in the vibrant marine life and the natural beauty of the islands make this a true paradise for couples!

The World’s Most Romantic Destinations and Experiences - bora bora pixabay

Paris, France

Paris, nicknamed the City of Light, remains an undisputed iconic romantic destination, captivating couples from all over the world.

The Eiffel Tower creates a magical backdrop. Then there’s nothing more romantic than strolling through the Luxembourg gardens or sharing intimate moments in charming cafés.

Seine cruises, offering panoramic views of illuminated landmarks, and exploring historic neighbourhoods guarantee a romantic experience!

The World’s Most Romantic Destinations and Experiences - paris pixabay

Venice, Italy

Venice, the city of lovers, is also a quintessential romantic destination. Winding canals, picturesque bridges and medieval architecture create an enchanting backdrop for romance.

Exploring the canals by gondola, visiting St. Mark’s Square and sampling the local restaurants offer unique experiences. Imagine dining for two in a gondola, with a meal prepared by a private chef…

The World’s Most Romantic Destinations and Experiences - venice unsplash

Santorini, Greece

A popular destination for honeymoons and romantic getaways, Santorini is the ultimate romantic escape, with its breathtaking landscapes, whitewashed houses perched on cliffs, and crystal-clear blue waters.

One of the most romantic experiences you can have is a meal in a taverna with a breathtaking view of the Aegean Sea!

Idyllic sunsets, narrow streets to get lost in, beautiful churches with blue domes, Santorini is the perfect setting for love and contemplation.

The World’s Most Romantic Destinations and Experiences - Santorini, Greece, unsplash

The Best Romantic Hotels

Here’s our selection of the best romantic hotels, perfect for a honeymoon or a luxury romantic getaway.

The Most Beautiful Ritz-Carlton Hotels for Couples

Ritz-Carlton hotels are the epitome of luxury for a romantic getaway.

For example, in Puerto Rico, the Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve offers an exclusive experience, combining a serene coastline, private residences, the Spa Botanico sanctuary, gastronomic experiences, wine tastings and cooking classes.

The World’s Most Romantic Destinations and Experiences - Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve

To Ritz-Carlton St. Moritz Thomas, the 30 acres of spectacular landscapes and crystal-clear waters create a perfect getaway for couples. Sunset cruises aboard the elegant Lady Lynsey II catamaran and romantic dinners on the beach add an exquisite touch to this Caribbean retreat.

The World’s Most Romantic Destinations and Experiences - Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas, Facebook page

The Ritz-Carlton Grand Cayman and the Ritz-Carlton Aruba also offer refined culinary experiences and magical settings.

Romance at Jade Mountain

Jade Mountain in Saint Lucia offers an exceptional romantic experience with its sanctuary suites and breathtaking views of the Pitons.

Each suite, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows and a private infinity pool, creates a spectacular setting, fostering intimacy and romance. The absence of televisions and telephones encourages a total disconnect, allowing couples to focus fully on their relationship.

The World’s Most Romantic Destinations and Experiences - Jade Mountain, Facebook page

Secret Resorts for a Getaway for Two

Secrets Resorts, a chain specializing in romantic getaways, creates exceptional memories from the moment you arrive. At Impression Isla Mujeres by Secrets, guests are welcomed royally by butlers from the mainland, then whisked away in a private yacht to the resort’s private dock.

If this all-inclusive resort is out of your budget, you can enjoy the facilities for a day with ResortPass.

The World’s Most Romantic Destinations and Experiences - Impression Isla Mujeres by Secrets1

In the Dominican Republic, the recently opened Secrets Tides Punta Cana is a real beauty! The 668 luxury suites, infinity pools and Pevonia spa add a touch of luxury to your getaway for two. Secrets’ signature Unlimited-Luxury experience guarantees quality service and several exclusive benefits.

The World’s Most Romantic Destinations and Experiences - Secrets Tides Punta Cana

Sandals Resorts: Luxury for Lovers

As the ultimate choice for romantic travel, Sandals stands out for its constant innovation and unique experiences in paradise destinations. The new Sandals Saint Vincent & The Grenadines, which opened in March 2024, embodies innovation with its Vincy Overwater Two-Story Villas, reinvented two-story suites.

The World’s Most Romantic Destinations and Experiences - Sandals Saint Vincent and The Grenadines 3

Similarly, Sandals Dunn’s River in Jamaica, opening in May 2023, features elegant Coyaba Sky Rondoval suites with secluded patios and private pools, demonstrating Sandals’ commitment to offering exceptional experiences for couples.

The World’s Most Romantic Destinations and Experiences - The Coyaba Sky Rondoval Villas at Sandals Dunn's River

Resorts With Superb Spas

For couples seeking relaxation and well-being, some all-inclusive resorts feature exceptional spas, ideal for romantic getaways. For example, the Zentropia spas at the Palladium and TRS hotels offer vast, luxurious spaces. These establishments offer sophisticated hydrotherapy circuits, bars serving natural juices and a variety of treatment rooms.

The World’s Most Romantic Destinations and Experiences - Zentropia Spa credit Marjorie D. Lafond

Hotels such as Beloved Playa Mujeres in Cancun, Sanctuary Cap Cana, and Le Blanc Spa Cancun also offer high-quality spa experiences.

The World’s Most Romantic Destinations and Experiences - Le Blanc Cancun

Also discover the best Marriott Bonvoy hotels with spas and stay there for free thanks to the current welcome offer on the Marriott Bonvoy® American Express®* Card.

Romantic Culinary Experiences

From underwater dinners to meals perched in trees, here are the most romantic restaurants in the world.

Chez Pépé Nicolas, French Alps

There’s something very romantic about the mountains too! And the Chez Pépé Nicolas restaurant in Val Thorens, in the heart of the French Alps, perfectly reflects this mood. Nestled in a chalet with a terrace offering breathtaking views of the ski slopes, this establishment is renowned for its enchanting decor and original cuisine featuring Savoyard specialties.

The World’s Most Romantic Destinations and Experiences - Chez Pépé Nicolas

Boardwalk Boutique Hotel, Aruba

Boutique hotels are renowned for their romantic settings, especially when they offer sophisticated culinary experiences.

A notable example is the Boardwalk Boutique Hotel in Aruba, where the hotel offers a special floating breakfast including fresh fruit juices, tropical fruits, pastries, two hearty dishes, and coffee or tea.

For an even more festive touch, an option of Prosecco or mimosas is also available!

The World’s Most Romantic Destinations and Experiences - Boardwalk Boutique Hotel, Facebook page

At El Farallón, Cabo San Lucas

Perched on a cliff above the Pacific Ocean, El Farallón in Cabo San Lucas is a romantic restaurant renowned for its fresh seafood.

Offering breathtaking views of the seascape and spectacular sunsets, this establishment creates an exceptional culinary experience, accentuated by an intimate ambience and magnificent decor.

The World’s Most Romantic Destinations and Experiences - El Farallón

At the Ithaa Undersea Restaurant, Maldives

The Ithaa Undersea Restaurant in the Maldives offers an extraordinary and unique setting beneath the Indian Ocean! Submerged in crystal-clear waters, this restaurant promises visitors an unforgettable dining experience surrounded by exotic marine life. The panoramic underwater view, combined with the refined cuisine, is sure to create a magical atmosphere!

The World’s Most Romantic Destinations and Experiences - Ithaa Undersea Restaurant

Au Jules Verne, Paris

Located in the Eiffel Tower in Paris, Le Jules Verne, with its Michelin star, is romantic because of its location and spectacular view of the City of Light. Perched at a dizzying height, the restaurant offers an elegant atmosphere, ideal for romantic dinners that are absolutely unforgettable!

The World’s Most Romantic Destinations and Experiences - Le Jules Verne, Facebook page

At Grotta Palazzese, Italy

In Italy, the Grotta Palazzese restaurant is built inside a cave on the edge of the Adriatic Sea. The restaurant allows diners to enjoy delicious Italian cuisine while being lulled by the sound of the waves, with breathtaking ocean views through the cave’s natural opening. Subtle lighting and natural architecture create an intimate, magical atmosphere!

The World’s Most Romantic Destinations and Experiences - Ristorante Grotta Palazzese Polignano a Mare

Bird's Nest, Thailand

Dining in the trees in Thailand, yes, it’s very romantic! In Thailand, the Bird’s Nest Restaurant at Banyan Tree Krabi is perched high in the trees. Its « bird’s nests » guarantee privacy and spectacular panoramic views of the jungle and the ocean.

The World’s Most Romantic Destinations and Experiences - Bird's Nest Restaurant

Save On Your Romantic Trip With Points

A luxury romantic trip becomes more accessible thanks to loyalty programs. Here are the best strategies to maximize your points.

For Flights

Use your Aeroplan points to book flights to all romantic destinations. Air Canada and its Star Alliance partners serve Europe, Asia, Mexico, and the Caribbean.

Point rates are particularly advantageous during the low season, and the points + cash option offers more flexibility. Consult our detailed guides on using Aeroplan points to plan your trip as a couple:

If you want to start your trip in style with a business class flight, a tool like Roame will be very useful for finding those prized tickets!

Featured
Annual fee
$0 $139
No annual fee the first year
Our valuation
$1,139
Milesopedia first-year estimateFirst-year valueWelcome bonus$1,000Annual fee rebated$139Total$1,139Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
Welcome offer
Up to 50,000 points
+ First Year Annual Fee Rebate
Apply Now

on TD's website

With this offer for the TD® Aeroplan® Visa Infinite* Card, you can get up to 50,000 Aeroplan points as well as an Annual Fee rebate for the first year.

  • Earn a welcome bonus of 10,000 Aeroplan points when you make your first Purchase with your new Card
  • Earn 15,000 Aeroplan points when you spend $3,000 within 90 days of Account opening.
  • Plus, earn a one-time anniversary bonus of 25,000 Aeroplan points when you spend $12,000 within 12 months of Account opening

This card also allows you to enjoy travel benefits, such as a free first checked bag for you and up to 8 travel companions on the same reservation, as well as a rebate on the NEXUS program application fee (up to $100 CAD per eligible cardholder) every 48 months.

With the TD® Aeroplan® Visa Infinite* Card, you earn 1.5 points per $1 spent on:

  • Grocery purchases
  • Gas and electric vehicle charging purchases
  • Purchases made directly with Air Canada® (including Air Canada Vacations®)

You also earn 1 point per dollar on all other eligible purchases made with your card.

Annual fee

Primary card$139
Additional card$75

Annual income required

Individual$60,000
Household$100,000

Conversion fees

2.5%

Earning rate

  • 1.5xGas & EV
  • 1.5xGroceries
  • 1.5xAir Canada flights
  • 1xAll spending

Value

1st Year Value$1,714
2nd Year Value$425

Card benefits

Concierge service24/7

Travel insurance

Travel medical (under 55)Up to $2,000,000 / 21 days
Travel medical (55-64)Up to $2,000,000 / 21 days
Travel medical (65+)Up to $2,000,000 / 4 days
Trip CancellationUp to $1,500
Trip InterruptionUp to $5,000
Delayed BaggageUp to $1,000
Lost BaggageUp to $1,000
Flight DelayUp to $500
Hotel BurglaryUp to $2,500
Travel AccidentUp to $500,000

Purchase protection

Purchase ProtectionIncluded
Extended Warranty+1 years
Mobile DeviceUp to $1,000 / 1 years
Auto Rental CollisionUp to $65,000 / 48 days

For Hotels

In Canada, Marriott Bonvoy remains the most advantageous loyalty program for free nights. The two American Express Marriott Bonvoy cards allow you to earn points quickly.

Many luxury romantic hotels, such as Ritz-Carlton, JW Marriott, and St. Regis are accessible with Marriott Bonvoy points. For all-inclusive resorts, Royalton properties are part of the Marriott collection and can also be booked with your points.

Featured
Annual fee
$120
Our valuation
$990
Milesopedia first-year estimateFirst-year valueWelcome bonus$990Total$990Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
Welcome offer
Up to 110,000 points
Ends Sep 22, 2026
Apply Now

on American Express's website

Apply with confidence — no impact on your credit scoreApply with confidenceCheck whether your application will be approved before you submit it, with no impact on your credit score*When you apply for a personal American Express Credit Card, we will tell you whether you are eligible without affecting your credit score. So you can apply with confidence.*Instant decisions are only available for consumer Card applications (also called “personal Cards”).

The Marriott Bonvoy® American Express®* Card is the best credit card in Canada for free hotel nights.

New Cardmembers can earn up to 110,000 Marriott Bonvoy® points with the current offer:

  • Earn 80,000 points after you spend $6,000 on your Card in your first 6 months of Cardmembership.
  • Plus, earn 30,000 points by making a purchase during your 15th month of Cardmembership.

This offer ends on September 22, 2026. The annual fee is $120, and there is no annual fee on Additional Cards, so you can add a partner or a family member at no extra cost.

Every year after your first Card anniversary, you receive an Annual Free Night Award good for a redemption of up to 35,000 points at eligible hotels and resorts worldwide. At a valuation of 0.9 cents per Marriott Bonvoy point, that certificate is worth roughly $315, which on its own more than covers the $120 annual fee. That is the main reason to keep this Card year after year instead of cancelling it.

To get the most out of the certificate, aim it at a night that would otherwise price close to the 35,000 point ceiling.

The Card also gives you 15 Elite Night Credits each calendar year and automatic Marriott Bonvoy Silver Elite status. Those credits count toward the next Elite tier, so you begin every year 15 nights ahead of where you would otherwise start.

You move up to Gold Elite status automatically when you reach $30,000 in purchases on the Card in a year, or when you combine 10 qualifying paid nights within one calendar year with the 15 Elite Night Credits from your Card.

Marriott Bonvoy points are generally valued at 0.9 cents each. On that basis, the 110,000 point welcome offer is worth about $990, and an Annual Free Night Award used at its full 35,000 point ceiling is worth about $315.

Marriott Bonvoy points pull their weight on free nights rather than on gift cards or merchandise, which is why this Card should be judged on the hotel stays it produces.

You earn 5 points per dollar on eligible purchases at participating Marriott Bonvoy hotels and 2 points per dollar on all other purchases. Points can be redeemed for free nights with no blackout dates at more than 7,000 hotels around the world.

The Card carries a solid package of coverages: $500,000 travel accident insurance, flight delay, baggage delay, lost or stolen baggage and hotel or motel burglary at $500 each, car rental theft and damage up to $85,000 for rentals of up to 48 days, Purchase Protection for 90 days and a one year Extended Warranty.

Two things to plan around: the 2.5% foreign transaction fee on purchases made in a foreign currency, and the 21.99% purchase interest rate, which makes this a Card to pay in full every month. Like all American Express Canada Cards, no minimum income is published for this Card, and you can see whether you would be approved before you apply, with no impact on your credit score.

Annual fee

Primary card$120
Additional card$0

Annual income required

Individual$0
Household$0

Conversion fees

2.5%

Earning rate

  • 5xMarriott Bonvoy hotels
  • 2xAll spending

Value

1st Year Value$1,437
2nd Year Value$312

Travel insurance

Delayed BaggageUp to $500
Lost BaggageUp to $500
Flight DelayUp to $500
Hotel BurglaryUp to $500
Travel AccidentUp to $500,000

Purchase protection

Purchase ProtectionIncluded
Extended Warranty+1 years
Auto Rental Collision (primary)Up to $85,000 / 48 days
Featured
Annual fee
$150
Our valuation
$990
Milesopedia first-year estimateFirst-year valueWelcome bonus$990Total$990Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
Welcome offer
Up to 110,000 points
Ends Sep 22, 2026
Apply Now

on American Express's website

Apply with confidence — no impact on your credit scoreApply with confidenceCheck whether your application will be approved before you submit it, with no impact on your credit score*When you apply for a personal American Express Credit Card, we will tell you whether you are eligible without affecting your credit score. So you can apply with confidence.*Instant decisions are only available for consumer Card applications (also called “personal Cards”).

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text el_class="checkmarks"]This credit card has been the Best Business Credit Card in Canada for hotels for many years. For a limited time, you can earn 50,000 points as a welcome bonus. With this Card you can earn:
  • 5 points per dollar on Marriott Bonvoy purchases
  • 3 points per dollar on gas, dining and travel purchases
  • 2 points per dollar on all other purchases
Also, as a Cardmember, you get many benefits such as:
  • An Annual Free Night Award for up to 35,000 points
  • 15 Elite Night Credits each calendar year for your Marriott Bonvoy Elite Status
  • Automatic Marriott Bonvoy Silver Elite status membership
  • Access to American Express promotional offers
  • Access to pre-sale tickets
Finally, you are covered with reliable insurance for your travels and purchases. Like most American Express Credit Cards, there is no minimum income required to apply for this Card.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

The Marriott Bonvoy® Business American Express®* Card is the best credit card for the self-employed, professionals and small business owners who travel.

With this welcome offer, you can earn up to 110,000 Marriott Bonvoy Points:

  • Earn 80,000 points after you spend $10,000 on your Card in your first 6 months of Cardmembership.
  • Plus, earn 30,000 Points by making a purchase during your 15th month of Cardmembership.

This exceptional offer ends on September 22, 2026.

It’s a card we recommend you keep, because each year at renewal, you’ll get an Annual Free Night Award for up to 35,000 points, plus 15 Elite nights per year, counting towards your Marriott Bonvoy Elite status.

With this Card, you earn 5 points per dollar for all your spending at Marriott Bonvoy establishments, and you can earn 3 points per dollar for :

  • Gas
  • Dining
  • Travel

And 2 points per dollar on all other purchases.

Like all American Express Canada Cards, there is no minimum income requirement.

Annual fee

Primary card$150
Additional card$50

Annual income required

Individual$0
Household$0

Conversion fees

2.5%

Earning rate

  • 5xMarriott Bonvoy hotels
  • 3xTravel
  • 3xGas & EV
  • 3xRestaurants
  • 2xAll spending

Value

1st Year Value$1,520
2nd Year Value$347

Travel insurance

Delayed BaggageUp to $500
Lost BaggageUp to $500
Flight DelayUp to $500
Hotel BurglaryUp to $500
Travel AccidentUp to $500,000

Purchase protection

Purchase ProtectionIncluded
Extended Warranty+1 years
Auto Rental Collision (primary)Up to $85,000 / 48 days

For All-Inclusive Packages

Air Canada Vacations allows you to book all-inclusive packages with your Aeroplan points at a rate of 1 cent per point. In addition, you can earn up to 20,000 bonus Aeroplan points per member when booking certain packages.

Our complete guide to booking all-inclusive vacations with points explains all the possible strategies for saving:

Bottom Line

Whether in the alleys of Paris, on the beaches of the Caribbean, or in the skies of Cappadocia, these journeys offer an unforgettable romantic odyssey, weaving memories that will last a lifetime!

Sponsored
Annual fee
$0 $139
No annual fee the first year
Our valuation
$939
Milesopedia first-year estimateFirst-year valueWelcome bonus$800Annual fee rebated$139Total$939Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
Welcome offer
Up to 160,000 points
+ First Year Annual Fee Rebate
Apply Now

on TD's website

With the TD First Class Travel® Visa Infinite* Card, you can earn up to 160,000 TD Rewards Points as well as an Annual Fee rebate for the first year:

  • 20,000 TD Rewards Points for the first purchase made with your card
  • 140,000 TD Rewards Points when you spend $7,500 within 180 days of account opening
  • A Birthday Bonus of up to 10,000 TD Rewards Points

Get an annual TD Travel Credit of $100 when you book at Expedia® For TD, and enjoy your time at the airport with global airport lounge access and 4 complimentary lounge visits with Visa Airport Companion Program (a value of up to $277).

With the TD First Class Travel® Visa Infinite* Card, you earn:

  • 8 TD Rewards Points for every $1 you spend when you book travel through Expedia® For TD
  • 6 TD Rewards Points per dollar on your grocery, dining and public transit purchases
  • 4 TD Rewards Points per dollar on your recurring bill payments and purchases of streaming services as well as digital games and media
  • 2 TD Rewards Points per dollar on all other purchases made with your card

This card also allows you to enjoy a range of travel benefits, including an annual travel credit, complimentary airport lounge visits, and a birthday bonus that boosts your points each year.

Annual fee

Primary card$139
Additional card$50

Annual income required

Individual$60,000
Household$100,000

Conversion fees

2.5%

Earning rate

  • 6xGroceries
  • 6xRestaurants
  • 6xTransit
  • 4xBills & recurring payments
  • 4xStreaming
  • 2xAll spending

Value

1st Year Value$1,430
2nd Year Value$531

Card benefits

Concierge service24/7
Airport lounge access$160

Travel insurance

Travel medical (under 55)Up to $2,000,000 / 21 days
Travel medical (55-64)Up to $2,000,000 / 21 days
Travel medical (65+)Up to $2,000,000 / 4 days
Trip CancellationUp to $1,500
Trip InterruptionUp to $5,000
Delayed BaggageUp to $1,000
Lost BaggageUp to $1,000
Flight DelayUp to $500
Hotel BurglaryUp to $2,500
Travel AccidentUp to $500,000

Purchase protection

Purchase ProtectionIncluded
Extended Warranty+1 years
Mobile DeviceUp to $1,000
Auto Rental CollisionUp to $65,000 / 48 days

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit popular romantic destinations?

For Europe (Paris, Venice, Santorini), prioritize April-May or September-October. You will enjoy pleasant weather and lower prices while avoiding the summer crowds. The Maldives, Thailand, and the Caribbean are particularly pleasant from December to March, while Bora Bora is ideal from November to April during the dry season. For Bali, opt for May to September, when the climate is least humid.

How to save on a romantic trip without sacrificing the experience?

The key is to intelligently use your loyalty points for flights and hotels. Book several months in advance and travel during the low season. Do not hesitate to mention your special occasion when booking: establishments often offer special touches for couples celebrating an event.

What are the free or low-cost romantic experiences in these destinations?

The most memorable moments are often the simplest: a sunset picnic in Santorini, a morning stroll through the alleys of Venice, or stargazing on a beach in the Maldives. The magic of a romantic place does not necessarily depend on the budget.

How do you choose between a boutique hotel and an all-inclusive resort for a romantic getaway?

Boutique hotels offer an intimate and personalized experience, perfect for short urban stays. All-inclusives are better suited for couples wishing to relax without worrying about a daily budget, particularly for longer seaside stays. For a truly romantic atmosphere, prioritize adults-only resorts, such as Secrets or Sandals, which guarantee a peaceful atmosphere without children.

Our featured card

Featured
Annual fee
$120
Our valuation
$990
Milesopedia first-year estimateFirst-year valueWelcome bonus$990Total$990Rewards on your spending are not included. The calculator that adds them from your own profile is on the card's page.
Welcome offer
Up to 110,000 points
Ends Sep 22, 2026
Apply Now

on American Express's website

Apply with confidence — no impact on your credit scoreApply with confidenceCheck whether your application will be approved before you submit it, with no impact on your credit score*When you apply for a personal American Express Credit Card, we will tell you whether you are eligible without affecting your credit score. So you can apply with confidence.*Instant decisions are only available for consumer Card applications (also called “personal Cards”).

The Marriott Bonvoy® American Express®* Card is the best credit card in Canada for free hotel nights.

New Cardmembers can earn up to 110,000 Marriott Bonvoy® points with the current offer:

  • Earn 80,000 points after you spend $6,000 on your Card in your first 6 months of Cardmembership.
  • Plus, earn 30,000 points by making a purchase during your 15th month of Cardmembership.

This offer ends on September 22, 2026. The annual fee is $120, and there is no annual fee on Additional Cards, so you can add a partner or a family member at no extra cost.

Every year after your first Card anniversary, you receive an Annual Free Night Award good for a redemption of up to 35,000 points at eligible hotels and resorts worldwide. At a valuation of 0.9 cents per Marriott Bonvoy point, that certificate is worth roughly $315, which on its own more than covers the $120 annual fee. That is the main reason to keep this Card year after year instead of cancelling it.

To get the most out of the certificate, aim it at a night that would otherwise price close to the 35,000 point ceiling.

The Card also gives you 15 Elite Night Credits each calendar year and automatic Marriott Bonvoy Silver Elite status. Those credits count toward the next Elite tier, so you begin every year 15 nights ahead of where you would otherwise start.

You move up to Gold Elite status automatically when you reach $30,000 in purchases on the Card in a year, or when you combine 10 qualifying paid nights within one calendar year with the 15 Elite Night Credits from your Card.

Marriott Bonvoy points are generally valued at 0.9 cents each. On that basis, the 110,000 point welcome offer is worth about $990, and an Annual Free Night Award used at its full 35,000 point ceiling is worth about $315.

Marriott Bonvoy points pull their weight on free nights rather than on gift cards or merchandise, which is why this Card should be judged on the hotel stays it produces.

You earn 5 points per dollar on eligible purchases at participating Marriott Bonvoy hotels and 2 points per dollar on all other purchases. Points can be redeemed for free nights with no blackout dates at more than 7,000 hotels around the world.

The Card carries a solid package of coverages: $500,000 travel accident insurance, flight delay, baggage delay, lost or stolen baggage and hotel or motel burglary at $500 each, car rental theft and damage up to $85,000 for rentals of up to 48 days, Purchase Protection for 90 days and a one year Extended Warranty.

Two things to plan around: the 2.5% foreign transaction fee on purchases made in a foreign currency, and the 21.99% purchase interest rate, which makes this a Card to pay in full every month. Like all American Express Canada Cards, no minimum income is published for this Card, and you can see whether you would be approved before you apply, with no impact on your credit score.

Annual fee

Primary card$120
Additional card$0

Annual income required

Individual$0
Household$0

Conversion fees

2.5%

Earning rate

  • 5xMarriott Bonvoy hotels
  • 2xAll spending

Value

1st Year Value$1,437
2nd Year Value$312

Travel insurance

Delayed BaggageUp to $500
Lost BaggageUp to $500
Flight DelayUp to $500
Hotel BurglaryUp to $500
Travel AccidentUp to $500,000

Purchase protection

Purchase ProtectionIncluded
Extended Warranty+1 years
Auto Rental Collision (primary)Up to $85,000 / 48 days

Our editorial integrity

Our reviews and rankings are based on an objective assessment. Advertisers do not influence our content. We may receive compensation through some links; our analysis and opinions remain independent.