Holiday Romance: What Makes for the Perfect Getaway for the Heart July 21, 2026

Sun on your skin, a dream-like setting, and a love story that invites you to lose yourself in daydreams—that’s exactly what makes a successful holiday romance for us. We love focussing on feel-good destinations, culinary delights, and romantic stories full of new beginnings that capture the special spirit of beloved vacation destinations.

Holiday romances have been among the most popular feel-good stories for years. They transport readers to picturesque, dreamy destinations, offer a break from everyday life, and combine romantic feelings with the atmosphere of an unforgettable vacation.

Typically, these stories take place in the spring or summer and are set in locations known for their idyllic scenery, culture, and unique way of life. Regions such as Provence, Tuscany, Lake Garda, Sicily, and Capri are particularly popular.

The culinary connection to the setting plays an important role. Whether it’s fragrant lemon groves, sun-ripened olives, regional wines, or other local culinary specialties, the enjoyment and zest for life should be tangibly woven into the plot and underscore the atmosphere of the vacation destination.

The settings themselves also contribute significantly to the special atmosphere. Wineries, charming hotels, restaurants with ocean views, or idyllic vacation homes create the perfect backdrop for romantic encounters and emotional developments.

At the heart of each story is a standalone love story—spanning around 250 to 300 pages—that tells of hope, new beginnings, and deep emotions. Popular tropes such as Friends to Lovers, Enemies to Lovers, Grumpy x Sunshine, First Love, or Brother’s Best Friend add tension and emotional depth. In a series, each volume features different protagonists, while the setting or the community of characters loosely connects the different stories.

A successful holiday romance thus combines everything readers love about this genre: romantic feelings, atmospheric, dreamy locations, culinary delights, and the promise of a fresh start in the sun.