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No matter what your nuptials look like—an intimate backyard ceremony, a big bash destination wedding, or even an elopement—the honeymoon that comes after should be a relaxing time to decompress and revel in the company of your new spouse. But similar to wedding planning, curating the perfect honeymoon often comes with the stress of keeping costs within a budget.
According to Sara Margulis, CEO and co-founder of Honeyfund, there are several factors to consider when choosing where to go on your honeymoon, especially if affordability is a top concern. For example, an expensive flight might be worth the cost if the destination offers low enough prices on accommodations and activities—especially if the flight itself can be further offset by gifts or points and miles.
“If you have loyalty points, airline miles, or a honeymoon fund, you might prioritize these far-off spots and live the high life relatively cheaply while you're there,” Margulis says.
It’s a balancing act that depends on your interests and finances, but to serve as a bit of inspiration, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best affordable honeymoon destinations where you can indulge in luxury at a more reasonable rate, with options in the Americas, Europe, Asia, and Africa.
Cartagena, Colombia
Cartagena may be known as Colombia’s heroic city, but its valor is only matched by its romance. Stroll hand in hand through the old historic center for glimpses of the colorful architecture, balconies overflowing with bougainvillea, and streets lined with restaurants and bars serving both Colombian classics and trendy yet affordable fine dining. The city is full of high energy day and night, but day trip respites can be planned to the idyllic, beautiful beaches of the Rosario Islands. Only accessible by boat, the white sand and Caribbean waters feel a world away from the city.
Stay here: Take one step inside the Sofitel Legend Santa Clara Cartagena and you’ll understand why it’s one of the most popular hotels in the city. The lush gardens of the main patio offer a relaxing place to grab breakfast; the massive pool is much-needed in the Cartagena heat; the spa offers world-class treatments; and the entire property stays true to the charm of its centuries-old architecture, while still meeting all the needs of a modern traveler.
Cappadocia, Turkey
Between the unique rock formations known as fairy chimneys and more than 100 hot air balloons that fly nearly every day at sunrise, Cappadocia is a truly magical place. Hot air balloon rides are the priciest activity in the area (expect $200 minimum per person) but worth the splurge to get a bird’s-eye view of the otherworldly landscape. If that’s out of your budget, head to a rooftop and take in the beauty of sunrise with the colorful balloons sprinkled throughout the sky.
Stay here: There’s no shortage of hotels offering the traditional cave experience in Cappadocia. Sultan Cave Suites is one of the most sought-after properties for its stellar rooftop and cozy cave dwellings with fireplaces and sweeping views of the region, while Lunar Cappadocia Hotel also offers well-appointed guest rooms in a cave, but at a lower price point.
Cape Town, South Africa
On a Cape Town honeymoon, couples don’t have to choose between competing interests. It’s a vibrant city with posh neighborhoods, a walkable waterfront, a foodie scene that’s both trendy and classic, plus several historical sites, museums, and nearby wineries. Active honeymooners can hike Lion’s Head Trail for unbeatable views, while wildlife lovers can go on an all-day safari tour to a nearby game reserve. Wine enthusiasts can also get their fill with a visit to Cape Winelands, seeing where vintages are made and sampling the fresh whites and bold-bodied reds.
Stay here: Just steps away from the main strip of Camps Bay Beach, POD Camps Bay is ideal for hopping from your room to the sand, but it also provides a refuge from the busyness of the area, with accommodations that feel like a private home. Choose between the mountain or sea view rooms for an extra treat.
Bali, Indonesia
Once you get over the hurdle of potentially expensive flights, Bali “is a dream come true because of the white sandy beaches, pleasant climate, turquoise waters, and breathtaking scenery,” says travel advisor Cierra Chesir.
It’s especially ideal for honeymooners who enjoy luxurious accommodations at budget prices. “From villas to resorts to guest houses to eco stays, the options are endless. Many places offer honeymoon packages that come with a plethora of benefits.” Chesir’s must-do activities in Ubud include visiting a monkey sanctuary, roaming through a rice field, and snapping photos at the Gate of Heaven and the Ubud Swing.
Stay here: Perched on a hill surrounded by lush jungle, the Aksari Resort Ubud is the perfect escape for lovebirds, with multiple infinity pools, a hot tub, and an al fresco spa. The property’s affordable pricing also means that upgrading to one of the private villas may be within your budget.
Budapest, Hungary
To access the rich history and impressive architecture of Europe without the hefty price tag, make your way to the capital cities of the East, where prices tend to be easier on the wallet. Budapest is a favorite amongst couples, with the Danube River lending itself to long, romantic strolls and numerous thermal baths providing an oasis for unwinding and pampering. Széchenyi Bath comes highly recommended as one of Europe’s largest natural hot spring complexes.
Stay here: Get a feel for the city’s more modern side by staying at the sleek Crowne Plaza Budapest, an IHG Hotel, where you’ll find spacious guest rooms, each with a bathtub. Several major attractions are just minutes away on public transit and for a bit of retail therapy, the property is next door to Westend, one of the city’s biggest shopping malls.
Quintana Roo, Mexico
“The Riviera Maya has gotten pricey, but if you use the Cancun airport as a jumping-off point for some of the lesser-known destinations such as Bacalar and Isla Holbox, there are great options for honeymooners seeking more secluded and romantic properties at a more affordable price point,” says Henley Vazquez, co-founder of Fora travel agency.
Without the crowds and higher prices, these alternative destinations still showcase what makes this region of Mexico so special: delectable cuisine fueled by fresh seafood, great weather year-round (just watch out for peak hurricane season in September and October), and plenty of opportunities to relax on the beach—or by a tranquil lagoon in the case of Bacalar.
Stay here: Vazquez recommends wellness-focused property Habitas Bacalar for the couple who wants to go off the grid and spend their days by the beautiful lagoon. For “a stunning beach, cool vibe, and a place for boating, summer diving with the whale migration, and generally relaxing on island time,” Vazquez sends clients to Nomade Holbox.
Greek Islands
Savvy travelers know they can enjoy all the perks of Santorini and Mykonos—jaw-dropping landscapes, crystal clear beaches, and quaint villages with whitewashed, blue-accented buildings—for a fraction of the price if they opt for a romantic getaway to some of the lesser-known Greek islands. These islands boast a fraction of the crowds, too. Check out Naxos, the largest of the Cyclades islands, for a mixture of adventure, archaeological history, and, of course, stunning beaches. Lefkada is an especially budget-friendly Greek island with surprisingly bright turquoise waters.
Stay here: For a cozy stay that’s close to all the main attractions of Lefkada, book a room at Allure Central Boutique Hotel. In addition to the convenient location, guests frequently praise the attentive staff for creating a home-away-from-home atmosphere.
Moab, Utah
For adventurous couples who want an active honeymoon with a spectacular backdrop, Vazquez recommends road-tripping to the many national parks in southern Utah and Arizona. If the cost of renting a car and gas is prohibitively expensive, stay in one place and get the most bang for your buck by heading straight to Moab, Utah. As the gateway to both Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park, Moab is the ideal home base for an outdoorsy adventure. You can easily venture out on your own with minimal park entry fees, but if your budget allows for it, consider hiring guides and checking out other experiences around town like Jeep off-roading and stargazing tours.
Stay here: Just a short walk from the downtown area, Hoodoo Moab, Curio Collection by Hilton puts guests at the heart of this small city. When you’re not exploring Mother Nature or the nearby boutique shops, enjoy mountain views while cooling off in the hotel pool.
Phuket, Thailand
Beach-loving newlyweds will be right at home with an island-hopping honeymoon throughout southern Thailand. Phuket is particularly popular for couples thanks to its pristine beaches, but the area offers much more beyond the sandy shores. Jungle trekking, water sports, unique cultural experiences, energetic nightlife, and an abundance of fresh flavorful cuisine are all par for the course. Reasonably priced spa treatments and beachfront massages also make it easy for couples to pamper themselves.
Stay here: Step straight from the beach to your bedroom with a stay at The Naka Phuket. The serene beachfront location is a big draw, but for couples who prefer extra privacy and romance, the villas with the private infinity plunge pools overlooking the ocean certainly fit the bill.
Ambergris Caye, Belize
Rounding out our list of relatively cheap honeymoon destinations: Belize. If you and your future spouse appreciate action-packed adventures on the water as much as a lazy day lounging on the beach, head to Ambergris Caye. Located near the Belize Barrier Reef, Ambergris Caye is the perfect starting point for snorkeling and scuba diving excursions, especially to the famous dive site known as the Great Blue Hole. The impressive ecosystem is the largest barrier reef in the northern hemisphere and home to a variety of wildlife: seahorses, spotted eagle rays, sea turtles, manatees, and more. You can also try your hand at kitesurfing or relax on a sunset sailing.
Stay here: Comfort meets convenience with a stay at Alaia Belize, Autograph Collection. The modern resort sits on a private beach just yards away from the Belize Barrier Reef with its very own dive shop. Honeymooners will also find a wine club, spa, six restaurants, four bars, and three pools to keep them busy.