Congratulations on your new beginning! If you’re planning your post-wedding getaway and thinking about how to make it special without overspending, you’ve come to the right place. This guide to budget honeymoon destinations explores some of the most enchanting yet affordable places around the globe. Whether you’re dreaming of tropical beaches, cultural escapades, or mountain retreats, our carefully curated list will help you plan a romantic and memorable honeymoon that won’t stretch your budget.
1. Bali, Indonesia – Tropical Romance on a Budget
Bali remains one of the top cheap honeymoon destinations for couples seeking both adventure and relaxation. From the serene beaches of Ubud to the vibrant nightlife of Seminyak, Bali offers a slice of paradise for every taste. Don’t miss out on affordable spa treatments and the rich cultural tours available throughout the island.
Imagine beginning your mornings with a serene walk along the rice paddies in Ubud, a place known for its peaceful atmosphere and stunning natural beauty. Ubud is not just a picturesque destination; it’s a haven for those looking for spiritual rejuvenation and artistic inspiration. Engage with local artisans, or take a yoga class together as a couple, all at very affordable honeymoon spots within the town.
As the sun sets, venture south to the beach clubs of Seminyak and Canggu, where you can enjoy cocktails and dance with your toes in the sand. Seminyak offers a more upscale experience but still ranks as an inexpensive honeymoon location compared to many other beach destinations worldwide. You can enjoy a romantic dinner by the sea, sampling some of Indonesia’s most delicious dishes without breaking the bank.
For adventure-loving couples, Bali’s water sports should not be missed. Activities such as snorkeling, diving, and surfing are available across the island at competitive rates, offering unforgettable experiences in some of the world’s most beautiful waters. The island also offers a range of budget-friendly honeymoon ideas, like visiting the majestic temples of Tanah Lot and Uluwatu, where you can witness breathtaking sunsets behind historic silhouettes.
Bali’s unique blend of romantic beach settings, cultural experiences, and adventure activities makes it an ideal low-cost honeymoon option. By choosing Bali, you ensure a honeymoon filled with cherished memories, all while adhering to your budget constraints. So pack your bags and get ready for a romantic adventure that promises beauty, excitement, and relaxation without the hefty price tag.
2. Porto, Portugal – A European Escape
Known for its rich history, captivating architecture, and, of course, its world-renowned wine, Porto offers an inexpensive honeymoon location with a European twist. Stroll along the Douro River, explore the historic district of Ribeira, or enjoy a wine tour without the hefty price tag associated with more popular European destinations.
Start your visit by exploring the colorful streets of Ribeira, the old town of Porto, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. This area is picturesque, with medieval relics, narrow cobbled streets, and traditional boats floating along the Douro River. As a budget-friendly honeymoon idea, consider a leisurely riverside walk at sunset, which provides not only romantic views but also a glimpse into the local lifestyle without any cost.
Wine enthusiasts will find Porto’s port wine cellars an irresistible attraction. Located across the river in Vila Nova de Gaia, these cellars offer tastings and tours that are very affordable, making it a top cheap honeymoon destination for couples who appreciate good wine. Learn about the traditional methods of port wine production, and enjoy sampling some of the best ports in the world—each sip tells a story of the region’s heritage and craftsmanship.
For a memorable day trip, take a cruise on the Douro River. These trips are surprisingly affordable and offer stunning views of the terraced vineyards along the hillsides, quintessential to this region of Portugal. It’s a relaxing way to spend a day and a fantastic opportunity to capture beautiful photographs, creating lasting memories.
Dining in Porto also offers low-cost honeymoon options. The city is renowned for its culinary scene which includes delicacies like Francesinha, a local sandwich layered with meats and covered in melted cheese and a thick tomato and beer sauce. Pair it with a local wine for a delicious yet budget-friendly meal.
Porto combines charm, culture, and affordability, making it an ideal budget honeymoon destination. Its blend of historical splendor, culinary delights, and romantic settings ensure that your honeymoon will be as enchanting as it is economical.
3. The Smoky Mountains, USA – Nature’s Retreat
For couples who love the great outdoors, the Smoky Mountains offer an economical honeymoon planning option. Enjoy hiking, visit the charming towns of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, and soak in the natural beauty from a cozy cabin. This destination proves you don’t have to travel far or spend much for a memorable honeymoon.
The Smoky Mountains, straddling the border between North Carolina and Tennessee, provide a stunning backdrop for a romantic getaway. Start your adventure in Gatlinburg, a quaint mountain town that serves as the gateway to the vast 800-square-mile Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Here, you can find a range of affordable honeymoon spots—from rustic cabins to comfortable hotels, all offering great value for money.
In Gatlinburg and its surroundings, you can indulge in a variety of activities without stretching your budget. Take a scenic drive through the park, where each turn offers panoramic views and the chance to spot wildlife. For the active couple, hiking trails abound, including the famous Appalachian Trail and the less traveled but equally beautiful Alum Cave Bluffs trail. These outings present not just exercise and fresh air but also invaluable budget-friendly honeymoon ideas such as picnicking by a mountain stream.
A short drive from Gatlinburg is Pigeon Forge, known for its inexpensive honeymoon location offerings such as Dollywood, the famous amusement park founded by country music legend Dolly Parton. While Dollywood is a draw for its rides and entertainment, the park also hosts seasonal festivals that can add a special touch to your honeymoon, often included with the price of admission.
Finally, for a truly romantic experience, plan a visit to Cades Cove, a secluded valley within the national park. Drive or bike the loop road at dawn or dusk to enjoy stunning mountain scenery and wildlife viewing opportunities—making for perfect, peaceful moments together without the crowds.
With its natural beauty, abundance of activities, and low-cost honeymoon options, the Smoky Mountains offer a perfect blend of romance, adventure, and affordability. It’s an ideal spot for newlyweds to start their life together surrounded by the tranquility and majesty of nature.
4. Morocco – Exotic and Affordable
Morocco is a gateway to Africa and a country of dazzling diversity. From the bustling markets of Marrakech to the expansive Sahara Desert, it’s a destination full of romance and adventure. Plus, with its array of budget-friendly honeymoon ideas, like affordable riads and local eateries, you can experience exotic allure without a lavish budget.
Begin your Moroccan adventure in Marrakech, a city that epitomizes the country’s vibrant culture. Wander through the Medina, a labyrinth of historic alleyways filled with colorful markets, or souks, where you can shop for everything from spices to handcrafted jewelry. This is a great opportunity for couples to immerse themselves in local culture and find unique souvenirs without spending a fortune, truly making it one of the cheap honeymoon destinations.
For a taste of Morocco’s natural beauty, consider a day trip to the Atlas Mountains, easily accessible from Marrakech. Here, you can enjoy guided hikes or mule treks that offer spectacular views and the chance to visit traditional Berber villages, adding a unique cultural element to your low-cost honeymoon options.
No visit to Morocco would be complete without experiencing the Sahara Desert. Opt for an overnight camel trek from Merzouga—a truly unforgettable adventure. Spend a night under the stars in a traditional Bedouin camp, a highlight for many couples and a defining experience in inexpensive honeymoon locations. The tranquility of the desert, combined with the stunning sunset and sunrise over the dunes, creates a backdrop of unparalleled romantic beauty.
Lastly, unwind in a Moroccan riad—a traditional house with an interior garden or courtyard, which offers a quiet, intimate atmosphere perfect for honeymooners. Many riads provide luxurious amenities at a fraction of the cost of typical hotels, making your stay both special and affordable.
With its rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and multitude of affordable honeymoon spots, Morocco offers an exotic escape that’s both enchanting and economical, ensuring your honeymoon is as memorable as it is diverse.
5. Crete, Greece – Sun, Sea, and Savings
Crete, the largest of the Greek islands, offers low-cost honeymoon options with its stunning beaches, ancient ruins, and picturesque villages. Enjoy delicious Greek cuisine, explore mythic historical sites, and take in the breathtaking sunsets over the Mediterranean, all while keeping your expenditures in check.
Begin your Cretan honeymoon in Chania, a city that blends the old with the new and maintains a charm that is sure to enchant any visitor. The Venetian harbor, with its lighthouse, is the perfect place for a romantic stroll. Nearby, you’ll find numerous tavernas where you can indulge in the local cuisine without overspending, making it an ideal inexpensive honeymoon location. Try dishes like dakos and moussaka, which are not only delicious but also affordable.
For beach lovers, Crete boasts some of the most beautiful and budget-friendly honeymoon ideas. Balos Lagoon and Elafonissi Beach, with their exotic blue and pink sands, offer scenic views at a fraction of the cost of more well-known European beaches. Spend a day sunbathing and swimming in crystal-clear waters, then enjoy a picnic with local cheeses, olives, and wine bought from nearby markets—a perfect example of how to enjoy the island’s natural offerings while adhering to a budget.
Adventurous couples can explore the ancient ruins scattered across the island, such as the famous Palace of Knossos near Heraklion. This site, considered Europe’s oldest city, provides a fascinating glimpse into Minoan civilization and is a must-visit for history enthusiasts looking for affordable honeymoon spots.
Evenings in Crete can be spent enjoying the vibrant nightlife in towns like Malia or retracing the quieter, cobblestone streets of Rethymno, where you can catch live Cretan music and dance performances, often for just the price of a drink.
Crete’s diverse offerings ensure that your honeymoon can be as laid-back or as adventurous as you wish. With its combination of history, culture, and natural beauty, it provides a rich yet economical honeymoon planning experience that promises to make your special time together both memorable and affordable.
