For a 10th anniversary, I'd lean into something that becomes a shared story rather than just a beautiful place. Since you enjoy exploring, I'd optimize for discovery, local culture, and a little adventure.
Here are a few ideas, depending on what kind of explorers you are:
If you love dramatic landscapes: Iceland road trip
Rent a camper or small SUV and spend 8–12 days circling the island. You'll see waterfalls, glaciers, black-sand beaches, geothermal pools, lava fields, and tiny fishing villages. One day you're hiking to an ice cave, the next you're soaking in a hot spring under the midnight sun or northern lights (depending on the season).
Perfect if you enjoy:
- Hiking
- Photography
- Flexible itineraries
- Cozy guesthouses
If you love history and food: Japan beyond Tokyo
Instead of staying in one city, travel by rail:
- Kyoto for temples and traditional neighborhoods
- Kanazawa for gardens and samurai districts
- Takayama for mountain-town charm
- Finish with a stay in a countryside ryokan with a private onsen.
It's romantic without feeling manufactured.
If you want an expedition feel: Patagonia
Explore either the Torres del Paine National Park or Los Glaciares National Park region.
Think:
- Glaciers
- Condors overhead
- Incredible hiking
- Boutique lodges at night
Many couples say trips like this become defining memories because every day feels like an adventure.
If you enjoy wine, villages, and slow travel: Slovenia + Croatia
Start in Ljubljana, explore Lake Bled, drive through the Julian Alps, then continue down the Croatian coast to Split or Dubrovnik.
Less crowded than many Western European destinations, with amazing scenery.
If you want wildlife: African safari
Instead of a beach vacation, spend several days on safari.
Great options include:
- Serengeti National Park
- Okavango Delta
- Kruger National Park
Watching elephants at sunrise or lions at dusk is unforgettable.
If you like getting off the beaten path: The Azores
These Portuguese islands are full of volcanic lakes, whale watching, thermal springs, and coastal hikes. They offer a mix of adventure and relaxation without feeling overly touristy.
If your dream trip is "we'll remember this forever": Antarctica
If your budget allows, an expedition cruise is unlike almost anything else:
- Zodiac landings
- Penguins
- Whales
- Icebergs
- Lectures from naturalists
It's expensive, but many travelers describe it as the most extraordinary trip they've ever taken.
One anniversary idea I especially like
Choose a destination where you can move around instead of staying in one resort. Spend 10–14 days with several stops, each offering a different experience. For example:
- 3 nights in a historic city
- 3 nights in the mountains
- 3 nights near the coast
- 2 nights somewhere luxurious to celebrate
That mix tends to create far more memorable experiences than a single resort stay.
If you can share:
- your approximate budget,
- how many days you have,
- what month you're traveling, and
- where you're flying from,
I can suggest a few itineraries that fit your style—including some that are a bit unusual and perfect for a milestone anniversary.