Traveling has always been a means to enrich our lives, offering opportunities to explore new cultures, meet fascinating people, and break free from our daily routines for a more relaxed and vibrant experience.
For centuries, honeymoons have provided couples with a special opportunity to embark on a journey together after their wedding, celebrating their love and creating cherished memories. However, honeymoons can often be expensive due to the desire for luxury and comfort.
But fret not! Fortunately, numerous affordable destinations offer stunning landscapes, delicious cuisine, and unforgettable experiences. So, what are the ten best budget-friendly honeymoon ideas?
Thailand Honeymoon: Explore the Exotic Beauty on a Budget
Exploring exotic beauty on a budget with millions of tourists each year, Thailand is one of the best destinations for those on a small budget. Its diverse and breathtaking territory will leave anyone breathless: crystal-clear waters surrounded by islands with white beaches, rainforests teeming with exotic wildlife, sightings of elephants and gibbons, beautiful plants, and picturesque mountains hiding Buddhist temples set in nature.
And let’s not forget about the bustling capital, Bangkok, with its unique shops and delectable street food.
Beautiful Activities
Thailand offers a myriad of opportunities for adventure. If you’re feeling adventurous, we recommend visiting the capital city with a tour on a typical tuk-tuk or exploring the canals by canoe.
For beach lovers, the white sands of Phuket and the scattered islands, especially in the South, are a must-visit. And for those who crave untouched nature, a guided tour through the forest with an overnight stay in a jungle camp is a perfect way to create intimacy and harmony for couples.
Best Time to Go
Thailand has a tropical monsoon climate, with temperatures soaring between March and May. The ideal time to visit the country is during the months of January and February. However, if you’re looking to save money, consider traveling during the low season, which runs from mid to late April until the end of October.
Goa, India’s Exotic Paradise
Another gem in Asia is India, a country dotted with beautiful landscapes and exotic nature that continues to captivate millions of tourists with its warm hospitality. One of the best destinations in India is undoubtedly Goa, a region known for its ideal climate and beaches bathed by clear waters.
Things to Do
In Goa, immerse yourself in the beautiful beaches of Baga in the Northern region, indulge in fresh and delicious seafood at typical restaurants, and visit cultural landmarks such as the colonial Chapora Fort and the magnificent Mangueshi Temple.
Don’t miss the chance to spend a romantic night on one of the beautiful houseboats that sail along the rivers. And for those seeking adventure, try out exciting water sports in Calangute, such as parasailing, dolphin spotting, and banana boat rides.
Best Time to Go
The best time for a honeymoon in Goa is between November and March. Although it is considered one of the more expensive destinations in India, it still offers excellent value for money, with affordable, top-quality hotels and delicious, budget-friendly food.
Portugal: A Romantic Haven
Portugal is one of the best destinations for a European honeymoon, offering a perfect mix of culture, art, sea, and nature. Portugal has it all with its beautiful landscapes, miles of coastline overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, charming ancient villages, and delicious traditional food.
Exciting Activities
With its wide range of things to do, Portugal offers something for everyone. Visit Lisbon and Porto, the two main cities, and admire their palaces while riding a traditional tram. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore Sintra’s Castle or Palacio de Pena, perched on cliffs overlooking the ocean and adorned with vibrant colors. A trip to the beautiful and wild beaches of the Algarve and the Alentejo regions is a must for beach lovers.
Best Time to Go
Portugal enjoys a mild and temperate climate throughout the year, making it a destination that can be visited any month. For a beach holiday, summer is the ideal time to enjoy the beautiful coastlines and the ocean fully. However, for an inexpensive honeymoon and to make the most of the cities, consider visiting in spring or autumn when the temperatures are pleasant, and there are many affordable flights and hotels.
Riviera Maya, Mexico: Enchanting Blend of Nature and Culture
Let’s venture into Central America and explore the famous Riviera Maya in Mexico. If you dream of a budget honeymoon, book a flight to this fascinating part of the Yucatan Peninsula. The Riviera Maya offers exotic Caribbean beaches with endless stretches of fine white sand framed by lush green vegetation and a rich Mayan heritage.
Things to Do
Tulum is a must-see in the Riviera Maya, where you can experience paradise-like beaches, culture, history, and nature. Explore the Mayan ruins perched above the crystal-clear sea. Tulum is divided into two parts: the Zona Arqueológica and Tulum Pueblo, where you’ll find restaurants, hotels, hostels, and all the services tailored for tourism.
Don’t miss the vibrant city of Cancun, which offers beaches like Playa Tortugas for water sports enthusiasts and Playa Caracol for a relaxing day of sunbathing. Another interesting spot is Playa Chac Mool, the region’s youthful nightlife center.
Best Time to Go
The climate in the Riviera Maya is tropical, and it is best to visit when temperatures are not excessively high, between December and April. Avoid the period between September and October due to storms. This destination is affordable, but you can save even more money by booking during the summer.
Montenegro: Budget-Friendly Mediterranean Gem
For another romantic and budget-friendly getaway, let’s return to Europe, precisely to Montenegro. This marvelous slice of the sun-kissed Mediterranean offers a winning combination of mountains, forests, and the sea.
Beautiful Activities
The Bay of Kotor is the most attractive destination in Montenegro, offering calm and clean seas perfect for water sports such as watercraft. Explore the medieval old town, visit the Cathedral of San Trifone, the Clock Tower, and the Ducal Palace.
Gastronomy lovers should visit the capital city, Podgorica, home to the largest European vineyard, Plantaže. You can savor excellent wines and food here while enjoying a romantic hike. Lastly, Budva, a medieval city surrounded by grand defensive walls and boasting the whitest shores in Montenegro, is a lively destination for young couples, with many inexpensive pubs and hotels.
Best Time to Go
Montenegro has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters. The coast can get very hot with its long beaches, while the mountains generally have cooler temperatures. The best time to travel is from May to September when the sun shines brightly, and the temperatures are perfect. Montenegro is very affordable, with many high-quality hotels available.
Cappadocia, Turkey: Crossroads of Europe and Asia
Let’s travel between Europe and Asia and discover the enchanting region of Cappadocia in Turkey. This destination is perfect for a romantic honeymoon, known for its famous “fairy chimneys,” cone-shaped rock formations found in the Valley of the Monks. This arid land is highly sought after by nature lovers and offers stunning sunsets that can be enjoyed while sipping tea atop the rocks.
Things to Do
Cappadocia is a popular destination for honeymooners, offering affordable activities for newlyweds. Consider staying in one of the hotels in the central city of Göreme, built inside caves, providing a unique and memorable experience. The region also boasts several underground cities worth exploring, such as Kaymakli.
Don’t miss the incredible and romantic hot air balloon ride, a highly sought-after attraction in Cappadocia. The skies filled with colorful balloons create a truly magical experience. Finally, indulge in a romantic horseback excursion through the stunning valleys of Cappadocia.
Best Time to Go
Cappadocia has an arid climate, and the temperature differences between day and night are significant. The best times to visit are spring (April and May) and autumn (September and October). Winters can be very cold. The region is known for being very affordable, especially for Western tourists, with average hotel prices around $40 per night. Additionally, the activities for couples are reasonably priced.
Dominican Republic: A Caribbean Paradise
If you still crave Caribbean landscapes, warm seas, and coconut palms, head back to the Americas. The Dominican Republic, located in the center of the Caribbean Sea, is another Caribbean pearl that attracts millions of couples each year. The warm hospitality of the locals and the abundance of affordable resorts make it a prestigious destination.
Beautiful Activities
When you think of a trip to the Dominican Republic, especially for a honeymoon, you envision relaxing under the shade of a palm tree on a white beach with crystal-clear waters. And that’s just the beginning—the country offers many other activities. Explore numerous national parks with rich streams, waterfalls, tropical forests, and monkey-filled jungles.
Experience the thrill of ziplining through the lush canopy. Embark on a safari to witness whales in Bahía de Samaná for a unique adventure. Finally, the north coast of the Dominican Republic offers famous spots for water sports enthusiasts, such as surfing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing.
Best Time to Go
The Dominican Republic has a tropical climate with high temperatures year-round. The driest season, during winter, is characterized by high temperatures and low humidity. Tropical storms and hurricanes are frequent during the wet season.
The best time to travel is undoubtedly from December to April, during the driest season. While flights may be a bit more expensive during this period, hotels and businesses remain affordable throughout the year.
Vietnam: A Must-Visit Destination
Lastly, let’s delve into Southeast Asia and explore Vietnam, often considered one of the cheapest countries for honeymoon vacations. With its low cost of living, Vietnam offers incredible experiences, vibrant colors, natural beauty, and a lively atmosphere that will amaze any curious traveler. It’s a destination that everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime.
Beautiful Activities
Vietnam offers numerous places to visit and things to do. Start with a cultural tour of the three most beautiful cities: Hanoi, with its historical buildings, temples, and pagodas; Ho Chi Minh City, the modern and commercial center; and Hué, the ancient capital with its imperial city, palace, and mausoleums. A cruise along the Mekong River is a fantastic way to admire the country’s natural beauty, and a visit to the breathtaking Pangua waterfalls is highly recommended.
Don’t forget the beautiful beaches along the central coast and south of Vietnam, such as Cua Dai, offering soft white sand, water sports activities, and excellent seafood restaurants, and Mui Ne in Phan Thiet, known for its red dunes and crystal-clear waters.
Best Time to Go
Vietnam’s climate features dry winters and rainy summers. Summer is always preceded by very hot periods. The ideal time to visit the northern region, where the capital Hanoi is located, is from March to May. An alternative time to visit is from October to November, when the rainy season has passed. In the south, the weather remains hot throughout the year, and the best time for a honeymoon is between December and February when the heat is not overwhelming. Flights and hotels are particularly cheap during these periods.
Buenos Aires, Argentina: The Enchanting Metropolis of South America
The capital of Argentina is perfect for those who are still drawn to the charm of South America but prefer the city’s dynamic atmosphere over the tranquility of forests. Often referred to as the Paris of South America, Buenos Aires is one of the largest cities on the continent. It boasts a unique blend of cultures, incredible architectural styles, diverse cuisine, and vibrant art scenes.
Things to Do
As your honeymoon takes place in the city, start your journey by exploring the best sights. Begin at the famous Plaza de Mayo, home to the picturesque presidential palace Casa Rosada and the Metropolitan Cathedral. Take a stroll along Avenida de 9 Julio, inspired by the Champs Elysées in Paris, until you reach the Teatro Colón, one of the world’s finest opera houses.
A trip to Puerto Madero is a must, as it showcases skyscrapers, offices, museums, and bustling businesses. Don’t forget to visit the multi-ethnic and picturesque neighborhoods of San Telmo, known for its typical restaurants and La Boca. For football enthusiasts, a visit to the nearby Boca Juniors stadium will surely delight your newlywed partner.
Best Time to Go
Buenos Aires has a “pampeano” climate, a variant of the humid subtropical climate characterized by hot and rainy summers and mild, relatively dry winters. It’s similar to a Mediterranean climate but with more rainy days. The city can be visited throughout the year, but the best seasons are spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant. Hotels and restaurants in Buenos Aires offer affordable prices, which may increase slightly during the summer.
Egypt: A Journey through Time and Nature
Last but certainly not least, Egypt is an essential destination that combines stunning landscapes and thousands of years of history. From the hot desert to beautiful oases, from ancient cities along the Nile River to the sandy beaches of the Red Sea, Egypt offers a diverse and captivating experience.
Beautiful Activities
Embark on a guided tour of the famous Pyramids in Giza, near Cairo City, and explore the remarkable temples in Luxor and Aswan. These cities showcase the glory of ancient times. A dromedary safari in the desert is a must-do, allowing you to discover marvelous oases, enjoy a desert dinner, and witness the acrobatics of fire-eaters and belly dancers.
If you love the sea and beaches, head to Sharm El-Sheikh, one of the country’s premier seaside destinations. Here, you can swim in the warm and crystal-clear waters of the Red Sea and engage in thrilling water sports such as scuba diving and snorkeling to admire the beautiful coral reefs.
Best Time to Go
Egypt features a hot desert climate across most of its territory, with generally mild winters but extremely hot summers. The Mediterranean area enjoys a more temperate climate.
The best time to plan a honeymoon in Egypt is during winter for archaeological visits, while spring and summer are ideal for beach activities. Hotels, shops, and restaurants are generally affordable, excluding luxury beach resorts.
Considering Budget Honeymoon Destination
As we have explored, the world is full of travel opportunities, and it’s not true that only those with a lot of money can embark on a honeymoon trip. Numerous beautiful destinations offer plenty of comforts and activities at affordable prices. All you have to do is find your favorite destination, book your holiday, and embark on the most beautiful life trip with your spouse.
FAQs
What are some budget-friendly honeymoon destinations?
Some budget-friendly honeymoon destinations mentioned in the article are Thailand, Goa in India, Portugal, the Riviera Maya in Mexico, Montenegro, Cappadocia in Turkey, the Dominican Republic, Vietnam, Buenos Aires in Argentina, and Egypt.
Which Asian countries offer affordable honeymoon options?
Thailand and Vietnam are popular Asian countries that offer budget-friendly honeymoon options. Both destinations combine natural beauty, cultural experiences, and affordable accommodations.
Which European country is suitable for a budget-friendly honeymoon?
Portugal is a suitable European country for a budget-friendly honeymoon. It offers a mix of culture, art, stunning coastlines, and delicious traditional food. With a mild and temperate climate, Portugal can be visited throughout the year, but visiting during the spring or autumn months can provide more affordable flights and accommodations.
When is the best time to visit Thailand for a budget honeymoon?
The best time to visit Thailand for a budget honeymoon is during the low season, which runs from mid to late April until the end of October. Traveling during this time can help you find more affordable deals on accommodations and flights.
What are some exciting activities to do in Thailand on a budget honeymoon?
In Thailand, you can enjoy activities such as exploring the bustling capital city of Bangkok, taking a tour on a tuk-tuk, visiting the beautiful beaches and islands of Phuket, and going on guided tours through the forests with overnight stays in jungle camps for a more intimate and adventurous experience.
