We’ve all been there – scrolling through those envy-inducing Instagram feeds of couples sipping champagne on a private yacht in the Maldives while we’re over here, eating baked beans and struggling to keep our houseplants alive. But fear not, for we’re about to embark on a journey that proves love can flourish even when your bank account is doing its best impression of a tumbleweed. This is a list of the best vacation spots for couples on a budget. So, slip into your most “vacation-ready” sweatpants, grab your partner’s hand (or paw, if your budget doesn’t allow for a plus-one), and let’s uncover the world of budget-friendly romantic getaways where love is the currency that matters most.
All costs are thanks to budgetyourtrip.com and are in $USD.
1. Bologna, Italy – Love and Lasagna
Who said romance can’t be cheesy? Welcome to Bologna, Italy, where they take pasta, and love, very seriously. Sure, Rome and Venice get all the attention, but Bologna, with its endless arcades and delectable cuisine, is the real hidden gem for budget-loving lovebirds.
Forget the clichéd red roses; here, it’s all about red sauce. Start your culinary quest with a hunt for the best tagliatelle al ragù in town. You’ll soon discover that twirling pasta together is the ultimate relationship test. But worry not, it’s cheaper than couples therapy. Also don’t miss the Two Towers. Explore the city’s endless porticoes hand in hand, occasionally dodging a Vespa or two – because what’s romance without a little adrenaline? Bologna: where love is messy, sauce is king, and your budget reigns supreme! Love never tasted so good. – Sorry that last bit got weird.
Budget: $92 per day
Mid-range: $185 per day
$penno: $368 per day
2. Krakow, Poland – History & Hugs
Krakow, the city where history meets hugs! If you’re into rich histories, hearty food, and long romantic walks, this Polish gem should be your next budget-friendly destination.
Start your day with a hunt for the best pierogi in town. These little dumplings of joy are both delicious and light on the wallet. Forget fancy restaurants; the real culinary adventure happens in cozy milk bars or at grandma’s kitchen table. Burn off those dumpling calories by wandering through the Old Town’s charming streets, where history lurks around every corner, ready to photobomb your selfies. Krakow’s got more castles and churches than you can shake a kielbasa at, and you don’t need a royal budget to visit them. Wrap up your day with a riverbank stroll, and if your budget allows, maybe even a horse-drawn carriage ride – because nothing says romance like trotting through a medieval cityscape while pretending to be royalty! Plus, visiting the Wieliczka Salt Mine is like a metaphor for relationships – it’s deep, mysterious, really worth the effort and.. salty? Whatever.. you get the idea.
Budget: $25 per day
Mid-range: $65 per day
$penno: $160 per day
3. Prague, Czech Republic – A Fairytale without the price tag
Prague, the fairy tale that doesn’t break the bank! The Czech capital is renowned for its stunning architecture, charming cobblestone streets, and wallet-friendly prices. And nothing says romance like a view of Prague Castle at sunset, right?
You and your partner can stroll across the iconic Charles Bridge, dodging selfie sticks and pigeon photobombers. Feeling peckish? Dive into the world of hearty Czech cuisine, where dumplings come in all shapes and sizes. And let’s not forget about the Czech beer – it’s cheaper than water here! For an extra dose of romance, explore the Old Town’s medieval streets under the moonlight, but watch out for slippery cobblestones, they’re not as forgiving as the city has been on your budget.
Budget: $48 per day
Mid-range: $116 per day
$penno: $287 per day
4. Bali, Indonesia – Romantic Retreats & Rice Paddies
Bali – the ultimate romantic escape, even on a budget! Bali might sound like a dream reserved for honeymooners and Instagram influencers, but it’s entirely possible to experience its beauty without emptying your bank account. Just watch out for all those Australians, Bali is basically an outer suburb of Perth.
Bali offers more than just breathtaking views; it’s a place where your rupiahs can go the distance. You and your partner can channel your inner Indiana Jones by exploring ancient temples (cue “Raiders of the Lost Ark” theme), or you could unleash your inner MasterChef at a Balinese cooking class. Picture you and your beloved sharing a plate of nasi goreng (Indonesian fried rice) for pocket change, followed by a scooter ride through lush jungles. Want to splurge a bit? How about a couple’s massage with aromatic oils? Bali’s got it all – at prices that won’t leave you crying into your Bintang beer.
Budget: $27 per day
Mid-range: $77 per day
$penno: $238 per day
5. Budapest, Hungary – Thermal Baths & Heartfelt Conversations
Start your day with a romantic dip in the city’s famous thermal baths. Whether you’re floating in the Széchenyi Baths or lounging in the Gellért Baths, you’ll feel like a couple of budget-conscious Roman emperors. Just try not to get lost in the maze of steam and fellow bathers; it’s a bonding experience, to say the least.
Next, explore the city’s stunning architecture, where you can channel your inner James Bond (on a budget, of course) while crossing the Chain Bridge. Bonus points if you do it in slow motion. For a touch of whimsy, hop on Tram Line 2, which offers panoramic views of the city. If you can figure out the ticketing system, you’re officially a Budapest local.
Wrap up your day with a romantic dinner at a local eatery, where you’ll feast on hearty Hungarian cuisine and pretend you can pronounce all the dishes correctly. Budapest: where love is in the thermal air, public transportation is an adventure, and your budget stays intact, even if your pronunciation doesn’t.
Budget: $35 per day
Mid-range: $93 per day
$penno: $259 per day
6. Lisbon, Portugal – Love on Seven Hills
Lisbon, Portugal’s sun-kissed capital, is a budget-friendly paradise for couples. Start your day with a visit to the historic neighborhoods of Alfama and Bairro Alto, where getting lost in the winding streets is practically mandatory. Bonus points if you manage to get lost in each other’s eyes along the way.
Hungry? Fear not, for Lisbon’s street food scene is like a symphony for your taste buds. Sample pastéis de nata (custard tarts) as you navigate the city’s hills – Climb one of its seven hills and catch a breathtaking sunset over the cityscape. For a touch of adventure, hop on Tram 28 and hold on for dear life as it rattles through the narrow streets and pretend you’re in a high-stakes chase scene from an action movie. Finally, toast to your budget-friendly love story with a glass of local wine as you watch the sunset over the Tagus River.
Budget: $64 per day
Mid-range: $143 per day
$penno: $325 per day
Love, Laughter, and (only a Little) Less Cash
From twirling pasta in Bologna to mastering the art of pronouncing “pastéis de nata” in Lisbon, and from soaking in thermal baths in Budapest to frolicking on Bali’s beaches kicking sand at Australians, all without breaking the bank. Remember, the best romantic moments often happen when you’re laughing together, savoring the best local flavors, and sharing the joy of discovering new places. Whether you prefer cobblestone streets, ancient temples, or sandy beaches, these spots all prove that love knows no price tag. The world is yours to explore, and with the right companion, every adventure becomes priceless. What do you think about our list for the best vacation spots for couples on a budget? Let us know in the comments!
