Cheap vacation spots for couples in 2024
Finding the best vacation spots for couples on a budget is not as complicated as you think.
You have to think outside the box.
A romantic getaway with your spouse is a great way to unwind from the stresses of life.
Even if that means looking at taking a quick, cheap, romantic weekend getaway!
Is travelling together good for a relationship?
I mean, who doesn’t love travelling and experiencing new places?
As a couple, sharing new experiences, such as visiting a new place, trying out new foods, and building memories, is always a great thing.
Deciding to see the world together will make you communicate better and strengthen your bond.
But travelling costs money.
And not every couple has the disposable income to travel and visit the world just like that.
If you’re trying to figure out cheap vacation spots you can visit for cheap, I have your back.
Travelling for cheap requires some creativity.
You should consider where you want to go and what experiences you want to gain from your travels as a couple.
Other things to consider are:
- The strength of your country’s currency
- The cost of living in the destination you plan to visit
- Are you able to visit during the low season?
With so many unique vacation ideas for couples on a budget, finding the right spot can be tricky!
One of the many challenges couples face when travelling on a shoestring budget is the stress that comes with it.
Most couples tend to stress what to do on vacation, how to pay for the trip, and then wonder if they got the best deal.
With this in mind, is there even such a thing as the best vacation spots for couples on a budget?
Finding the best vacation places for couples should be your goal so you can have a fun and memorable trip.
We will be covering the following things today:
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The best country to visit as a couple on a budget
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Unique vacation ideas for couples on a budget
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Best relaxing vacations for couples for cheap
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Great vacation spots for couples that are romantic
Cheap vacations are hard to plan if you have no money saved.
Before you book your cheap romantic getaway, come up with a reasonable budget for how much you are willing to spend, think about activities you would like to do while on vacation, and then research a romantic vacation destination that suits your needs!
The list below is packed with unique low-budget vacation ideas for couples with little money.
I didn’t want to list the usual vacation spots, such as New York City, Costa Rica or Puerto Rico.
I even left our national parks.
Oops.
Instead, we have included breathtaking vacation spots that are affordable, like Croatia, Bora Bora, and the Maldives, on this list.
We have also noted some more unexpected destinations, like Turkey and Iceland.
You will find the best vacation spots for couples that, with a little bit of planning, can afford them.
Where are the best places for couples to travel on a budget?
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Best budget vacation spots for couples
If you are looking for a fun, relaxing, and budget-friendly vacation spot for couples, you will enjoy this post.
Whether you are planning a romantic vacation or a couple’s getaway, these locations are a must for couples on a budget!
We loaded the post with the best cheap romantic getaway that most couples can afford.
Going on vacation as a couple is a big deal, and finding a getaway built for two for adventure and relaxing activities is our top priority.
From hiking to snorkelling, you can do plenty of adventurous things on your vacation as a couple without spending thousands of dollars.
Here are a few cheap vacation ideas for couples that don’t want to spend thousands travelling:
1. Vang Vieng, Laos
There are plenty of inexpensive vacation spots for couples!
The beautiful town of Vang Vieng in Laos is a super romantic budget holiday destination.
There are so many fun yet romantic activities in and around the small, laid-back town, starting with the Blue Lagoons – they are a must-do in Laos!
Go for a swim, relax, have fun and enjoy the atmosphere!
There are 3 Blue Lagoons in Vang Vieng, with Blue Lagoon 3 being the most romantic as it is the quietest and furthest from town (18km away).
It costs just 10,000 Kips ($1.50) to visit each Blue Lagoon!
Together, hop on a scooter to visit the Blue Lagoons and then get ready to climb the nearby Nam Xay Mountain.
The views are simply magnificent!
The cost for this is also just 10,000 Kip.
Some lovely boutique hotels in Vang Vieng are remarkably well-priced.
Silver Naga Hotel is excellent because it is located conveniently and has the most Instagrammable pool overlooking the mountains and the Nam Song River—perfect for taking romantic vacation photos to remember!
Rooms with balconies and mountain views are available for around $80 a night, including breakfast—a bargain!
The landscape in Vang Vieng is breathtaking, with limestone karst mountains surrounding the town.
There are many unique but well-priced restaurants to take your significant other to.
Laos is generally very cheap, making it the perfect romantic budget getaway.
You can spoil your partner without breaking the bank!
Submitted by Catrina of 24 hours layover!
2. Split, Croatia
With so many unique vacation ideas for couples on a budget, Croatia is one place you must visit at least once.
Split, Croatia, is one of the best vacation spots for couples on a budget.
Located in the heart of the country’s Adriatic coastline, Split offers stunning views and plenty of activities to keep you and your partner busy.
The city is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and delicious cuisine.
Plus, getting around on foot or by public transportation is easy.
On a Split Croatia itinerary, couples can explore the city’s historical sites and old town within Diocletian’s Palace, an ancient Roman palace that is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The palace has several museums, galleries, and fruit and fish markets.
Some of the most famous museums include the Mestrovic Gallery, the Split Ethnographic Museum, and the Split City Museum.
Split is also home to pebble and concrete beaches, where you dip your toes into the crystal-clear blue water of the Adriatic Sea.
Couples can try taking a boat tour of the nearby islands, such as Hvar, Brač, and Vis.
The islands offer stunning views and plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkelling, and other water activities.
In the evenings, couples can explore Split’s vibrant nightlife.
There are plenty of bars and clubs and live music venues.
And many restaurants offer fresh seafood and authentic Croatian meals.
While you can book with the more expensive restaurants and hotels in town, Split’s restaurants and attractions are generally affordable with excellent value, making it a beautiful European beach destination for couples on a budget.
Go ahead and plan your vacation to Croatia right here!
Submitted by Lyndsay of The Purposely Lost
3. Bursa, Turkey
To save money, you should consider a trip to Turkey.
Due to the inflation in the country, Turkey (currently known as Türkiye) has gained popularity as one of the most budget-friendly travel destinations for international tourists in the past couple of years.
While Turkey has many famous vacation spots for couples like Cappadocia or Pamukkale, Bursa is often overlooked as an affordable destination for couples looking for a romantic vacation spot on a budget in Turkey.
Uludag Mountain is the highest point in the Marmara region, a province in western Turkey.
It has become one of Bursa’s most popular romantic destinations.
Situated around 30 kilometres from Bursa city center, Uludag Mountain is suitable for couples, and you can visit it all year round.
From the spring to the summer, you can enjoy the greenery around the mountain.
Meanwhile, during the winter, Uludag also has some of the best skiing resorts in the country.
From Bursa city center, you can take Bursa Teleferik, the longest cable car in Turkey, and enjoy the city view from the top.
If you are lucky, you can get a cable car just for you and your partner.
Public buses are also available from Bursa to Uludag Mountain for a cheaper alternative.
Even if skiing is not your thing, there are plenty of other things to do for couples in Bursa.
Whether you want to get lost in Bursa Bazaar or experience your first Turkish hammam as a couple, some of the best spots in the city are within walking distance, making it easier to explore.
To get the most out of your experience, have dinner at İskender Tarihi Ahşap Dükkan, a historical restaurant that serves fine dining with the famous iskender kebap in Bursa.
Couples looking for cheap romantic getaways should give Bursa a try.
Submitted by Marya of The Beautraveler
4. Corfu, Greece
Europe is full of unique destinations, but if you want somewhere unique with the best views, you should consider the Greek Islands.
Corfu, Greece, is the perfect destination for a romantic getaway – especially if you’re on a budget!
From the charming waterfront tavernas to the stunning beaches and old-town charm of Corfu Town, there are plenty of romantic activities around the island.
And as it is not as popular as other Greek Islands like Santorini or Mykonos, you are guaranteed a more relaxing trip.
Corfu offers plenty of charming and affordable places to stay, so you won’t have to break the bank to find a peaceful haven for the two of you.
No matter what you want from your trip, there will be the perfect area.
But if you are looking for somewhere with fantastic beaches and plenty to do, you should book your stay in the Paleokastritsa area.
Beyond that, Corfu offers so many incredible free activities to enjoy.
Explore its stunning beaches and hike around enjoying the Mediterranean sunshine, admiring the wildflowers blooming on the hillsides.
You can also eat out very cheaply too.
It’s also worth considering renting a car to make the most of your romantic getaway in Corfu.
That way, you can explore this magical island without relying on public transport or shared tours.
If you want to enjoy quality time together in one of the most stunning European Islands, consider booking Corfu for your next romantic break.
Submitted by Lowri of Many Other Roads!
5. Island of Mauritius
Mauritius is one of the best vacation spots for couples on a budget!
It’s beautiful and has many white sandy beaches and relaxation options for couples looking to take a break.
Depending on where you are, it could be quite a long trip.
Mauritius is a beautiful island country in the Indian Ocean, off the southeastern coast of Africa, near the east of Madagascar.
When my then-boyfriend (and now husband) suggested he wanted to go on a romantic vacation somewhere new, he suggested we go to Mauritius.
From Canada to Mauritius, it took us about two days.
We left Montreal for Paris (France) and landed on what I believe is the most beautiful vacation spot in the world.
We rented a beautiful Airbnb near a beach for about $600 for two weeks.
Along with couples resorts, comfortable villas and Airbnbs, you will find a handful of luxurious Mauritius vacation hotels that will blow your mind!
To get around, we rented a car in Mauritius (do this online before you arrive) for about $500 for the two weeks we were on the island.
This allowed us to explore the whole island effortlessly.
Spend your vacation trying new water sports, diving, hiking through the diverse landscapes or spotting wildlife in its natural habitat.
While it’s easy to splurge, Mauritius has options for all budgets, and you might be a little surprised to hear the island has some of the world’s best-value deals for couples.
There is a reason so many people choose to vacation in Mauritius.
It has the perfect balance of relaxation, adventure, natural beauty and paradise vibes.
There is so much to do for couples in Mauritius.
If you are looking for cheap vacation ideas for couples, I highly recommend Mauritius.
Go ahead and book your vacation trip to Mauritius here!
Source: Culture Wedding Blog
6. Colombia
Colombia is an incredible country to visit if you want a romantic vacation spot on a budget.
Not only is Colombia a fantastic location for couples, but it’s also one of the best budget holiday spots in the world!
The country is bursting with fun but affordable activities, delicious cuisines, and a rich history that can be explored throughout the country.
Places like Cartagena, with its Caribbean flair and the intimate (and famous) walled city, are ideal for couples to enjoy a few nights of blissful romance without breaking the bank.
The capital, Bogota, is a fun metropolitan city with swanky neighbourhoods, first-class restaurants and some of Colombia’s most famous landmarks.
Food stalls and market stands still gather in the centre, providing delicious but cheap eats; try their empanadas for a naughty, deep-fried but filling lunch.
If it’s the outdoors and nature that you love, the country is renowned for its coffee plantations and national parks and even has a few glaciers to boot!
The hiking is second to none, generally costing only a parking entrance fee if that is the case.
There are waterfall treks and adventure sports, such as white water rafting, which can be enjoyed on a shoestring budget.
With numerous areas and climates to explore, Colombia will be your favourite go-to budget-friendly vacation spot in 2024!
Are you ready to book a trip to Colombia?
Submitted by Abi of I’m Going On An Adventure!
7. Athens, Greece
Athens is considered one of the best vacation spots for couples.
You might think Athens is all about the ruins and the history.
But it’s really about the food and the atmosphere.
Athens is romantic and lively and chaotic and beautiful.
Even many cheap accommodations in Athens have rooftop terraces with a spectacular view of the Acropolis.
If you can’t score an accommodation with a rooftop terrace, there are still many rooftop bars and restaurants.
Speaking of restaurants, the food scene in Athens is amazing.
Of course, you can find delicious Greek dishes everywhere in town, but things will get extra romantic when you look for those cute little backyard restaurants.
The best thing about the food in Athens is the dessert restaurants.
Places like Little Kook or Ellyz Cafe are incredibly romantic (and instagrammable) and surprisingly affordable.
You can go for lovely strolls to walk off all of that food. Some quarters, like Plaka and Psiri, are entirely car-free.
Take your time to explore the hidden gem of the Anafiotika area just beneath the Acropolis.
It looks like a Greek island and is immensely romantic.
Make sure to catch the Athens sunsets.
Areopagus Hill, next to the Acropolis, is a great spot to grab a picnic and enjoy a budget date.
In Athens, combining a city trip with a beach holiday is effortless.
You can enjoy one of the many affordable beaches on the city’s outskirts, which can be reached by public transport.
Or, if you want to treat yourself, hop on a ferry in Piraeus and enjoy one of the many islands near Athens.
Aegina, for example, makes for a great day trip, but you can also choose to stay overnight.
You can also skip the Line Acropolis of Athens Tours.
Don’t forget to check out the Gourmet Food Walking Tour in Athens.
Go book your romantic vacation to Athens right here.
Submitted by Carina of Bucket List 2 Life!
8. Málaga, Spain
Are you looking for affordable vacation spots for couples?
Look no further than Málaga!
Located on the Costa del Sol of southern Spain, Málaga is a great budget-friendly destination for couples on a budget.
From sunbathing on beaches to drinking Spanish wine on rooftop terraces, Málaga is a great place for a romantic vacation.
Connecting the central part of the city to its most famous beach, Playa la Malagueta, is the Parque de Málaga.
Green parrots and other birds flutter through the palms in this incredible escape from the urban areas.
Extensive bike paths run along the beaches.
If you’d like to eat by the beach, chiringuitos are a popular snack and drink shacks.
They are not usually fancy establishments, but the tapas are great, and the prices are low.
Other cheap or free things in Málaga include climbing the Mirador de Gibralfaro for a scenic city overlook, exploring the fortress walls, and visiting the Picasso Museum.
Spain also has affordable intercity transportation via buses or trains so that you can explore neighbouring cities like Ronda, Sevilla, or Granada.
The world-famous Alhambra is found in Granada, only an hour and a half away.
The best area to stay is the Centro Historico.
You will find many shopping and dining options here.
With so many unique cheap places to travel as a couple, you get your most bang in Málaga.
For accommodation, I recommend the well-air-conditioned Hotel Málaga Premium, or if you would like to save even more money, you could book a private room in a hostel.
The airport is also well connected to the city by public transit so that you can avoid an expensive taxi ride.
Book a trip to Málaga, Spain, right here.
Submitted by Taylor of Taytrum Travels!
9. Toulouse, France
Toulouse is the perfect alternative destination to pricey Paris.
Located on the south coast of France, a trip to Toulouse offers mouth-watering French food, quaint lanes, historic art and architecture at a more affordable cost.
This is perfect for couples looking for vacation spots on a budget.
One of Toulouse’s best and most free activities is immersing yourself in the city by wandering the picturesque streets.
Toulouse is affectionately called La Ville Rose (the pink city) due to the rose glow that emanates from the gorgeous terracotta-coloured buildings around dusk.
This place was made for romantic meanderings.
Plan to end your stroll with ice cream or pastry at the river Garonne.
Head for photos on the Pont Sant-Pierre, a beautiful bridge with historic street furniture.
For a cheap cultural experience, visit Galerie Le Château d’Eau.
This fabulous photographic space houses a range of exhibitions, and the building is an old water tower.
Entrance is only €4, and it’s free if you plan your trip for the first Sunday of the month.
With pricing like this, I would say these are the best budget vacations for couples.
While on vacation, you might want to indulge in a romantic glass or two of fine French wine.
However, this can be an expensive experience.
Toulouse has you covered with a creative initiative: a self-service wine bar.
Add credit to your wine card on entry and then use it to sample whichever wines you choose.
If you’re on a budget, the ‘taste’ size option is an excellent way to enjoy a small sample of many different wines without breaking the bank.
After you’ve consumed food, drink, and culture, take a contemplative break at the Couvent des Jacobins.
For €5, you can view the beautiful 13th-century Dominican monastery and enjoy the peace of the Cloister.
Be sure also to grab your Toulouse Tourism Pass City Card!
Book your romantic trip to Toulouse right here.
Submitted by Katie of Flip Flops Included!
10. Granada, Nicaragua
One of the cheapest places to travel for couples is Nicaragua.
More specifically, to Granada.
Granada is known for its picturesque charm and proximity to Nicaragua’s top sights.
Nicaragua’s oldest town is its cultural center and the ideal base for exploring the country’s various natural and historic sites.
The challenge is finding time to see and do it all!
The centrally located Hotel Real de Merced is a convenient and comfortable base in Granada.
This boutique hotel in the city’s historic zone boasts a courtyard pool, luxe rooms, and suites.
Granada’s top attraction, Las Isletas, is 365 islands in Lake Nicaragua.
See the islands by kayak: rentals start at $20, and a guide is only a few dollars more.
Or hop on one of many pangas touring around the island homes of the rich, the famous, and the monkeys.
Monkey Island is a highlight: go early when they’re hungry for tourists to feed them.
Granada is ideally situated for two of the country’s most visited volcanoes.
There is no need to choose: Hike Mombacho during the day to see sloths and visit Masaya after dark to marvel at actively boiling lava.
Each tour includes transportation and a guide, starting at $30pp.
Granada is so inexpensive you can see it all!
Stroll Granada’s bright streets and squares adorned with charming Colonial architecture at no charge.
Step inside the well-preserved churches and museums, admiring the interiors and climbing to rooftops with views of the city, lake, and distant volcanos.
Free walking tours are available in guidebooks or online.
Another freebie is House of Chocolate, a chocolate museum shop offering tastings.
For dinners, visit “Gringo Street,” the affectionately termed pedestrian boulevard filled with outdoor restaurants and busker entertainment.
History and nature, charming squares and friendly people will cost you nearly nothing.
Granada, Nicaragua, appeals to couples on a budget.
Submitted by Melinda “Mel” of Mel On The Go!
11. Porto, Portugal
Porto, also known as Oporto, is located in the northwest of Portugal, known for its picturesque streets, historic landmarks, and delicious port wine.
The city is an excellent destination for couples seeking a romantic and affordable vacation.
One of the reasons why Porto is a great place is its charming and historic architecture.
The city is home to several historical landmarks such as the Clerigos Tower, which offers a panoramic view of the city, the São Francisco Church, known for its ornate Baroque interior, and the Palácio da Bolsa.
This 19th-century palace now serves as a cultural center.
Another great thing about Porto is its delicious and affordable food.
There are tons of traditional tascas (taverns) and restaurants that serve delicious and hearty dishes, such as francesinha (a sandwich made with steak, ham, and sausage) and bacalhau (codfish), all at an affordable price.
There are also plenty of things to do in Porto on a budget, such as visiting the Douro River, where you can take a boat trip to see the city from a different perspective, or visiting the Porto Cathedral, which is free to enter.
Additionally, one can stroll along the Ribeira, the city’s historic waterfront area, and enjoy stunning views of the Douro River.
One of the most romantic places to visit in Porto is the Jardim do Morro, a garden overlooking the river, which is an excellent spot for a picnic or a sunset stroll.
Another romantic place is the Miradouro da Vitória, a viewpoint that offers panoramic views of the city.
There are also many other affordable places to stay in Porto, such as hostels, guesthouses and budget hotels.
You can effortlessly have a cheap vacation in Porto.
Book a budget-friendly couple vacation to Porto here!
Submitted by Victoria of Guide Your Travel!
12. Bali
If you are looking for good vacation spots for couples, look no further than Bali!
It’s a popular vacation spot for couples on a budget.
Bali is an idyllic island with a well-known name that most people mistake for a country.
But it is one of many islands that make up the beautifully diverse country of Indonesia.
Bali is an excellent destination for couples looking for a budget-friendly vacation, from stunning cascading jungle waterfalls to gorgeous, glistening beaches.
With many flights from around the globe into Denpasar (the capital city), experience exceptional hospitality as soon as you step off the plane.
On your Bali bucket list, there are so many incredible things to do for little to no cost of entry.
First, explore Balinese culture and religion by visiting iconic landmarks like Uluwatu Temple and Tanah Lot.
In central Bali, walk through Ubud’s picturesque rice paddies and play with the monkeys in Monkey Forest.
I recommend you book this affordable tour!
When you’re ready for the seaside, escape to lesser-visited Amed for some thrilling snorkelling or take a ferry to bask in the insane beach attractions of the Nusa islands.
For those seeking more adventure, rent a motorbike to discover hidden gems at your own pace while exploring Bali’s charming countryside.
You won’t want to miss out on experiences like diving the WWII wreck in Tulamben, catching a glimpse of Mount Agung from afar, or doing the sunrise hike to the summit of Mount Batur.
Accommodation in Bali is vast and varied, from beachfront bungalows to cozy villas.
I recommend:
You don’t have to break the bank for a place to stay; many places offer fantastic value without compromising views or comfort.
And when it comes to food?
Budget travellers will rejoice at all the delicious cuisines available in Bali’s local warungs and markets, all for a few dollars per meal!
Try Babi Guling (suckling pig) or Bebek Betutu for an authentic taste of Bali.
I suggest looking up vacation packages to Bali here.
Submitted by Catherine of Nomadicated!
13. Panama
One of the best vacation spots for couples on a budget is Panama.
Often overlooked for Costa Rica, Panama offers many similar experiences for much less money.
Most travellers start their Panama vacation in the capital, Panama City.
The city is filled with life – from skyscrapers with rooftop bars and pools with panoramic views to small restaurants with homemade churros and hot chocolate.
You can hike up Ancon Hill for panoramic views of the city.
While it’s steep, the hike should only take about 40 minutes.
Keep an eye out for snoozing sloths and stunning toucans.
If relaxing is more your style, spend the day at the beach.
Panama City has plenty of beaches available to soak in the sun.
For traditional Panamanian food on a budget, check out El Trapiche.
Most dishes are between $5-10.
If the hustle of the city isn’t your favourite, head to old Panama City, also known as Casco Viejo.
Cheap vacation places like Casco Viejo are perfect for couples on a tight budget.
There are so many things to do in Casco Viejo that you could easily spend an entire day.
From exploring the ruins to walking and shopping near Plaza Francia, it’s an easy (and budget-friendly) way to see more of the city.
Window shop along the plaza at several stands featuring handmade souvenirs from Panama.
Panama City is the gateway to the rest of the country – whether you want to make a day trip to see the Panama Canal, go wildlife spotting in the jungle, or escape to the San Blas Islands.
Couples will find plenty to explore that won’t break the budget.
You can book adult-only resorts and hotels if you want something more all-inclusive.
Submitted by Pamela of The Directional Challenged Traveler!
14. Goa, India
Travelling strengthens the bond of couples while they get to know themselves better.
And there are so many beautiful vacation spots for couples on a budget.
There is nothing like visiting a picturesque sea beach surrounded by coconut trees and spending quality time around.
Yes, I am talking about Goa, the smallest state in India yet richest in the diversity of its beaches on the Arabian Sea.
Goa is a perfect vacation spot for romantic couples and a budget-friendly destination compared to other similar attractions.
December to February are the ideal times to visit Goa.
Some of the best beaches in Goa include Palolem, Ashwem, Candolim, Morjim, Calangute, Sinquerim, and Baga.
While north Goa beaches get crowded during festive seasons, the south Goa beaches remain serene.
You can spend hours on the sand of the sea beaches sunbathing and listening to the sound of the waves.
Otherwise, you can participate in kayaking, parasailing, scuba diving, windsurfing, and more watersports!
Why only sea beaches? Why not a bit more adventure?
Goa is also famous for its beautiful Dudhsagar waterfalls.
A car can partially cover the road to the waterfalls, and then there is a hiking trail through the forest to reach the waterfalls.
If you are an adventure-lover couple, you will surely love visiting here.
This section about Goa would be incomplete without mentioning the mouth-watering seafood.
Pousada By The Beach in Calangute is my favourite for its seafood.
Thalassa, Brittos Restaurant & Bar, Spice Goa, La Plage, Martin’s Corner, and The Fisherman’s Wharf are other popular restaurants in Goa.
Enjoy a candlelight dinner beside the sea beach to make your vacation memorable.
Goa is very well-connected worldwide because of the International Airport at Dabolim.
Besides, the railway and road connectivity is excellent.
You can rent a scooter for only $6-10 daily and roam around your favourite destinations in Goa.
To learn more about Goa and other tourist places in India, check out Nature Diary!
Submitted by Nature Diary!
15. Caye Caulker, Belize
Caye Caulker in Belize is a great vacation spot for couples as it has beautiful beaches, good seafood and small island vibes.
Caye Caulker is a short ferry from the mainland and perhaps the country’s highlight.
Fortunately, the island is also known for being affordable by Western standards and is the best vacation getaway for couples.
The most popular activity on Caye Caulker is swimming with rays and sharks at Shark Ray Alley.
You will hop in a boat and drive quickly before slipping on your snorkel gear and into the water.
There usually is a decent amount of rays and nurse sharks swimming around, so it makes for a great experience, and you will pay much less than you would for a similar experience in the USA.
Apart from that, the best things to do are to swim and hang out at the Split, hire some bikes and ride around the island, or find a spot to watch the sunset.
The above are either free to do or very cheap (the bike hire).
The area is also well known to divers, with the ‘Blue Hole’ resting not far from the Island.
Divers can experience its depths, while non-divers can take a helicopter ride over the top to see it from above.
Although both activities are cheaper than they are back home, they are still the most expensive things on this list.
The best thing to eat at Caye Caulker is freshly caught lobster or jerk chicken.
Lobster is much cheaper in Belize than back home, and you have the bonus of knowing it was caught the same day.
On the other hand, the jerk chicken shows off the island’s Jamaican influences.
Besides those, you can also find excellent Chinese food on the island.
Belize is the best affordable vacation for couples on a tight budget.
Lexi from Stylish Packing List recommends this destination for couples looking for cheap vacation places.
Submitted by Lexi Stylish Packing List
16. Huatulco, Oaxaca
Once a little-known beach town on the desert coast of Oaxaca, the 9 Bays of Huatulco have become a popular winter holiday vacation spot for couples seeking to escape the world’s colder regions.
Thankfully, despite Huatulco’s recent surge in popularity, this romantic beach town remains affordable!
This makes it one of the best budget vacation spots for couples.
The region of Huatulco is most known for its romantic, protected bays and beaches – there are more than 40 beaches just in Huatulco!
Many of these beaches are off-the-beaten paths, with hidden playas offering a romantic escape for those who dare to seek them out.
While the ocean-front villas might be out of range, there are many cozy, comfortable, and romantically budget-friendly accommodations downtown La Crucecita.
The incredible thing about these hotels is that they are within walking distance of all the best shopping and restaurants Huatulco has to offer.
And who wants to stay on the same beach every day when there are 39 others to explore?
Speaking of restaurants, Huatulco has many!
Mexican food is delicious and affordable, and Huatulco is no exception.
Oaxacan food is rich, delicious, and cheap!
Beers cost $1.50-$2, and a plate of tacos will run about $3.
If you get tired of tacos and tlayudas and want to splurge on an anniversary dinner, you can find many fine dining options (with wine pairing) for under $25 a person.
Taxis in Huatulco are the best mode of transportation and also the cheapest!
A taxi from town to one of the nearby beaches will cost you between $1.50 (base fare) and $4.
This makes exploring the beaches a fun and cheap thing to do in Huatulco!
You can also explore the Huatulco National Park, rent bicycles, snorkel, go bird-watching, and do other outdoor activities for low to no cost!
Will you be adding Huatulco to your 2024 dream couple destinations?
We recommend staying at:
November through March are the best times to visit Huatulco.
Submitted by Shev of Shev Strolls!
17. Chiang Mai, Thailand
It can get tricky finding good vacation places for couples on a budget.
But with enough research, you can find a great spot that works for your budget.
Chiang Mai, Thailand, is one of the best vacation spots for couples on a budget.
There are so many cheap things to do in Chaing Mai that you will never get bored.
The accommodations are super affordable throughout Thailand, and many have full-service spas.
You could quickly get away with booking a beautiful room for under $100.
Now, for the cheap things to do.
Head to the markets!
There are so many markets in Chiang Mai, the most popular being the Sunday Night Market.
But all the markets sell street food starting at around $1 and handmade treasures to take home.
One of the most popular things to buy in Chiang Mai is the iconic elephant pants, which vendors sell for about 100 baht ($3) all day and night.
If you want a romantic day out with your love, the Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden is the best place to start.
There is a small entrance fee, but you could easily spend the entire day here surrounded by beauty.
The most impressive display here is the giant greenhouse.
There are massive palm trees, giant ferns, and beautiful flowers all perfectly coexist together.
There are 9 different displays to check out throughout the park.
Plenty of places to enjoy cheap, delicious, and fresh food here.
A local delicacy is Koh Soi.
This is a hearty curry noodle soup with so much flavour.
You can order it plain or add chicken, beef, or pork.
For the best in town, check out Khao Soi Prince.
They are in the old town and are only open for lunch and breakfast.
The old town also has plenty of Thai and international restaurants to enjoy.
Another impressive and cheap thing for couples is visiting Thailand’s Buddhist Temples, known as Wats.
These beautiful buildings usually have gold trimming, roofs, and even giant gold buddhas.
Many are scattered around Chiang Mai, but you can check them out.
Some Wats have rules about women covering their shoulders and knees, but most do not care.
Submitted by Abby of Trips On Abby Road!
18. Polignano, Italy
Perched atop a hill overlooking the Adriatic sea, Polignano a Mare, meaning “Polignano at sea,” is a lover’s dream holiday escape.
Located in the south of Italy, it is less known by foreigners and, as such, an authentic Italian gem for much less the cost of other well-known seaside towns.
The fact that the singer Domenico Modugno of the fantastic classic romantic song – “Volare” (Nel Blu Dipinto Di Blu),” was born here adds to its air of charm and romance.
In the Puglia region, Polignano a Mare is a small, dreamy seaside town with attractive whitewashed buildings and gorgeous beaches along the Adriatic coast.
This makes this a budget-friendly romantic destination for couples because you don’t need to spend much for a truly unique and relaxing experience.
Romantic things to do in Polignano a Mare
- Walk around the “centro storico,” aka historical center, and take in the picturesque sights while reading “Graffiti Poetry” by ‘Guido Il Flâneur’ on steps and doorways.
- Enjoy the majestic view of the clear blue Adriatic sea from “Ponte Borbonico.”
- D dip from the most famous bay in Polignano, “Lama Monachile.” However, there are several other sandy beaches if you prefer quiet beaches.
- Eat the best focaccia Italy offers at “Le Foccace Ignoranti,” a laidback restaurant serving great focaccia and other Italian dishes.
- Visit the statue of Domenico Modugno at Lungomare Domenico Modugno. His song “Volare” speaks about the beauty of the blue sea, and as such, the location of his statue, overlooking the ocean from a square, is the perfect place to have a coffee and a brioche. There are also cheaper options for restaurants in the area.
- Finally, to spoil yourselves, take a boat tour of the caves around the shore at about 30 euros or 33 dollars.
There are many beautiful places to visit and see in Polignano a Mare.
Be sure to book your next vacation right here as soon as possible.
Submitted by Isabella of The Riding Zebra!
And there you have it: vacation ideas for couples on a budget!
Vacations can run several dollars if you do not plan accordingly and with a budget.
One of the most frequent questions I get from couples is – “How do I plan the most affordable vacations for couples?”
The simple answer: “budget for it!”
Good budgeting for a trip is the key to a successful and stress-free time.
What’s important is to look for ways to save money when planning a vacation.
Having incredible romantic getaways on a budget with proper planning is possible.
Start by putting a reasonable vacation budget together, and then dig into suggestions of the best places to travel as a couple on a budget.
Determine what kind of vacation trip you are after and decide who pays for what.
Find ways to stretch your dollars—
Make your dream vacation come to fruition, and ensure you and your partner are on the same page!
Finding affordable vacation spots for couples takes a little creativity.
Book one of our best budget trips for couples
I hope you have enjoyed our budget-friendly vacation spots for couples.
If you know of other cheap vacation spots for couples you want to tell us about, please share them below.
We have shared plenty of inexpensive vacation ideas for couples on a budget but are always interested in hearing about other places.
We always look for budget-friendly vacation ideas for couples craving the need to experience the next big thing.
All budget vacation ideas for couples are appreciated.
Read next:
- What is a mini-moon? And how to plan one!
- Romantic things to do in Ottawa
- Romantic things to do in Perth
- 100 Cute Couple Adventure quotes
- 100 Couples Bucket List Ideas
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This is perfect for brides who just got married! There’s aways a honeymoon, this is the perfect blog post for my brides. Thank you!