How to pop the question: unique marriage proposal ideas

If you’re the kind of person who doesn’t want to wait until your wedding day, there are plenty of ways to pop the question. Be creative and thoughtful— and don’t be afraid to get out of the box with your marriage proposal ideas! Do something unique that your partner will forever cherish. It's not all about getting down on one knee. How about proposing with a breathtaking skyline view in the background? Or perhaps over a candlelit dinner on a private terrace.

The element of surprise will keep your loved one guessing until he or she can't take it anymore. There are so many ways to get creative when it comes to ideas of how to propose. To make it extra special, rent a private space to give it a totally exclusive and intimate feel. Here are a few examples of innovative proposals that have worked in the past, along with tips and a heartwarming personal story from within the Viewnary Community. With any luck, one of these will inspire you for your own unique marriage proposal idea.

Proposing at an exclusive penthouse with Manhattan skyline views

A marriage proposal in New York City can be a whirlwind adventure that should not be underestimated. This city offers the perfect setting for proposing, especially when you consider the views of the myriad of landmarks and attractions that cater to just about any proposal. Imagine having a direct view of the Empire State Building, Statue of Liberty, or Rockefeller Center as you pop the question.

Many would agree that a New York City skyline view is hard to beat. If you want to enjoy the best views in New York while proposing, book this private and exclusive penthouse with panoramic views of Lower Manhattan.

The spacious 600 square foot property has a vast open-air terrace where your Host can easily set up a table for a romantic meal, drink and – ultimately – your big moment. Should you want to head indoors, the penthouse features a large living room that exudes a premium lifestyle – beautiful wooden flooring, funky artworks, and plush furniture. Rain or shine, this will make for a memorable time.

We’re sure you want the entire occasion mapped out perfectly, and rightfully so. You can always communicate with the Host through Viewnary Chat to set up any special requests, such as catering or simply having your favorite bottle of champagne chilled and waiting for you. We’re also glad to help – feel free to get in touch with us for some personalized and customized tips on how to go about planning this momentous milestone.

This level of privacy and personalization is something public venues like The Ready Rooftop Bar, Harriet’s Rooftop & Lounge, and Magic Hour Rooftop Bar & Lounge simply can’t match. Your partner will have no choice but to say “Yes!”.

Down on one knee with a London skyline view in the background

Why not get the proposal of your dreams with a mesmerizing backdrop? Ask the one you love to marry you while admiring the beautiful London skyline, a city with some of the most iconic sights in the world. One superstar Viewnary Guest based in the UK, Dan, was kind enough to share the itinerary of his big day.

He started by bringing his history buff fiancée to the Royal Air Force Museum, which is located just outside of London. The soon-to-be wedded couple found it to be an amazing place for viewing historic aircraft. With a few hours spent at this museum, they then enjoyed lunch at a restaurant overlooking Parliament Square.

Afterwards, Dan took his fiancée on a romantic walk along Westminster Bridge back towards two of London's most famous landmarks, Big Ben and Westminster Abbey. But the best was yet to come. Namely, the couple booked a few hours on this private balcony with direct views of the Shard and the Gherkin.

Normally speaking, Dan would have opted for a trendy drink at one of the many rooftop bars in London, such as LSQ Rooftop, Skylight Peckham, or London Bridge Rooftop. He instead made the (wise) choice of doing something truly novel and unique - renting out a private space for a number of hours for the ultimate romantic experience.

Dan reached out to the Host on Viewnary Chat two days before the booking, explaining that he would like to have his fiancée’s favorite bottle of wine ready upon arrival. When the engaged pair came to the door, the wine was chilled and the sky above the balcony was turning pinkish as the sun was setting. After the golden hour drinks, Dan went down on one knee with the best views in London in the background… and she said yes! According to Dan, this was hands down the most romantic place to propose in London.

Proposal on an exclusive terrace overlooking the Vatican in Rome

If you're shortlisting ideas for a marriage proposal in Italy, consider this jaw-dropping and unique experience in Rome. Romantic things to do in Rome are plentiful, with its cozy squares and countless cafés and restaurants. Rooftop bars in Rome are also immensely popular. Locals and tourists alike are fond of places like Minerva Roof Garden, Cielo Terrace, and Roof Garden Les Étoiles.

But a romantic mood is hard to conjure with so many strangers around you. If you want to impress your partner and admire the best views in Rome in total privacy, plan your proposal at this panoramic terrace overlooking the Vatican and St. Peter’s Basilica.

One of the most in-demand things to do in Rome is a visit to the Vatican. It’s almost impossible to separate the two. This, of course, goes hand in hand with other things to see in Rome, like the Colosseum and Trevi Fountain. Now imagine proposing to your love with the historic Vatican and skyline of Rome in the background. It’s one-of-a-kind.

The spacious terrace has an open-air as well as a covered area, so you can pick and choose what you like. If you’d like to tuck into a delicious meal of choice, the dining table is covered and suitable for all weather conditions. Simply contact the Host through Viewnary Chat to arrange anything you wish, or reach out to us for more tips on how to make this special occasion unforgettable.

Still need more inspiration? Be sure to read our guide to the 3 most romantic places to propose in the world.