The study by online casino website Nieuwe Casino analyzed the Instagram hashtags '#[location]engagement', '#[location]proposal' and '#[location]engaged' combined with 781 locations around the world to determine which ones appear most frequently as proposal backdrops for couples.
The analysis looked at every European country and the three most populous cities in each, every US state and the three most populous cities in each state, a range of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and TripAdvisor's Travelers' Choice "Best Destinations" including top destinations, honeymoon destinations, trending, sustainable and natural destinations, plus best beaches, to name just a few.
The volume of hashtags for each location was then compiled to create the definitive ranking of all the most beautiful places in the world, which will provide the most spectacular setting for the most romantic proposal.
Top locations worldwide:
#1 Paris, France
According to Instagram hashtags, Paris is the world's most picturesque destination to propose, with over 78,000 posts showing engagements in the city. Paris, which is often affectionately referred to as the "City of Love," is known for its romantic atmosphere.
The city, full of culture, offers plenty of opportunities for perfect marriage proposals. Whether in front of iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, on the banks of the Seine, or in one of the city's charming cafés, Parisian proposals are a delightfully memorable experience for any couple.
#2 Bali, Indonesia
Bali, with its vast natural beauty, pristine beaches and verdant forests, is one of the most beautiful places to propose marriage and ranks second on the global list. The study found more than 72,000 Instagram posts celebrating proposals on the Indonesian island.
Bali is also the number one honeymoon destination worldwide, according to TripAdvisor's Travelers' Choice Awards, highlighting the romantic and relaxing experience synonymous with this tropical destination.
#3 Colorado, USA
Colorado ranks third in the world ranking of Instagram-worthy destinations for marriage proposals and takes the crown as the best destination in the United States. According to the analysis, the state has more than 68,000 posts from Instagram users sharing their interactions on the platform.
Colorado's spectacular scenery is an ideal setting for a marriage proposal. Famous for the stunning Rocky Mountain National Park and beautiful ski resorts, including Aspen, the state offers year-round appeal for those seeking the perfect romantic getaway.
#4 New York, United States
New York, one of the most recognizable locations in the world, ranks as the fourth most photographed proposal destination on Instagram, with over 36,000 related posts.
New York City is arguably the most iconic location in the state, home to countless proposal spots to suit any couple's style: atop the Empire State Building, in Central Park, or over an intimate dinner at one of the city's thousands of restaurants. And for nature lovers, the state is also home to the famous Niagara Falls, which borders Canada and will no doubt make for an epic backdrop for a proposal photo.
#5 Florida, USA. UU.
Rounding out the list of the five most picturesque places in the world to propose, with over 32,000 posts on Instagram, is Florida. Perfect for a romantic getaway, Florida is a popular choice for couples to enjoy the sunshine. Most notably, however, the legendary Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando offers couples the chance to get engaged in “the most magical place on Earth.”
The state is also third out of ten places in the United States that make the top 15 most photographed destinations on Instagram for marriage proposals. This highlights not only the beauty found throughout the country, but also the eagerness that Americans and tourists visiting the United States have to share engagement news with family and friends on social media.
The best cities in Europe:
Paris, the most Instagram-worthy setting in the world, is the perfect European backdrop for a marriage proposal. However, with the vast array of culture, architecture, and natural beauty found throughout Europe, many other destinations would also be a hit with any soon-to-be fiancé.
London comes in second, with over 27,000 posts tagging new engagements in the city. However, Italian cities occupy the top four to top ten cities in Europe: Italy is perhaps the most romantic country in Europe, based on its popularity for marriage proposals.