Budget Honeymoon: Incredible Destinations Without Breaking the Bank

A budget honeymoon doesn't have to mean boring or uncomfortable. Some of the most breathtaking destinations on Earth are also the most affordable: turquoise beaches, ancient temples, and tropical jungles at a fraction of what they'd cost in Western Europe.

In this guide, we'll show you where to go for a budget honeymoon and which places offer the best value for money, with proven tricks to save on flights and accommodation, and how to fit your honeymoon into your overall wedding budget without stress.

Key Takeaways

• €1,500–€3,000 per couple is enough for 10–14 days in destinations like Thailand, Bali, or Greece.
• Booking 6–9 months ahead and travelling in shoulder season can save you up to 40%.
• Asia and Central America offer the best value for exotic honeymoons.
• Europe has budget-friendly options too: Greece, Portugal, Croatia, and Albania are surprisingly affordable.
• Your honeymoon is a line item in the budget: include it from day one so you don't run out of funds.

Contents

• How much does a honeymoon really cost?
• Budget honeymoon destinations in Asia and the Americas
• Affordable honeymoon destinations in Europe
• Tricks to save up to 40% on your honeymoon
• When to book for the best prices
• How to fit your honeymoon into your wedding budget
• Frequently asked questions

How much does a honeymoon really cost?

The average honeymoon costs between €3,000 and €5,000 per couple, including flights, accommodation, meals, and activities. But that figure drops dramatically when you choose the right destination and season.

With the destinations we recommend below, it's perfectly realistic to enjoy 10–14 days for €1,500–€3,000 without sacrificing quality. The secret lies in three factors:

• Destinations with a low cost of living: your money stretches two or three times further than at home.
• Shoulder season: neither peak season nor rainy season. Lower prices and fewer crowds.
• Booking early: long-haul flights get significantly more expensive closer to the date.

"Budget" doesn't mean uncomfortable. Countries like Thailand and Indonesia have 4–5 star hotels for €30–60 per night that would cost €150–250 in Europe.

Budget honeymoon destinations in Asia and the Americas

If you're after exotic experiences at unbeatable prices, Asia and Central America are your best allies. Here are the top picks.

Thailand

White-sand beaches, golden temples, and incredible cuisine. A dinner for two at a fantastic restaurant costs between €10 and €15. Two weeks including flights come to around €2,000–€3,000 per couple.

You can combine the buzz of Bangkok with the southern islands (Koh Samui, Krabi, Phi Phi) for a mix of culture and beach in one trip. Learn more in our Thailand honeymoon guide.

Bali (Indonesia)

Postcard-perfect rice terraces, volcanoes, Hindu temples, and luxury spa sessions for €20. Accommodation in private pool villas starts at €40 per night — unthinkable in Europe.

Bali is one of the most romantic destinations in the world and, at the same time, one of the most affordable. Check out our Bali honeymoon guide for more details.

Costa Rica

Perfect for couples who prefer nature and adventure: active volcanoes, zip-lining over the rainforest, Caribbean beaches, and jaw-dropping biodiversity. Budget for 14 days is roughly €2,500–€4,000 per couple.

The cost of living is slightly higher than Southeast Asia but still very accessible. More info in our Costa Rica honeymoon guide.

Sri Lanka

The less-crowded alternative to Thailand. Safari to spot leopards, pristine southern beaches, scenic train rides through tea plantations, and ancient ruins like Sigiriya. All at prices comparable to Southeast Asia.

Affordable honeymoon destinations in Europe

You don't need to fly halfway around the world for a budget honeymoon. Europe has options that will surprise you — and with no jet lag.

Greece: islands off the beaten track

Skip Santorini in August. Islands like Naxos, Milos, and Corfu offer the same turquoise waters, whitewashed villages, and magical sunsets at half the price. Accommodation from €50–80 per night and tavernas where two can dine for €25–35.

Greece blends beach, culture, and history like few destinations can. Check our Greece honeymoon guide for inspiration.

Portugal: the Algarve and Madeira

Stunning golden-cliff beaches, fresh seafood, wines at €3 a glass, and warm hospitality. Madeira is perfect for romantic hiking with Atlantic views.

Flights from Spain cost between €50 and €100 return, making Portugal the closest and most affordable option for European couples.

Croatia, Albania, and Montenegro

The Adriatic is full of affordable gems. Split, Hvar, and Zadar (Croatia) combine beach and Mediterranean culture. Albania and Montenegro are the "secret" destinations with postcard beaches and prices up to 50% lower.

Tricks to save up to 40% on your honeymoon

Beyond the destination, these strategies make a real difference to your final budget:

• Flexible-date flights: use comparison sites (Skyscanner, Google Flights) and try the "+/- 3 days" trick. It can save €200–400 per couple.
• Mix accommodation types: 2–3 nights at a special hotel (your treat) combined with simpler stays for the rest. You don't need a luxury resort for all 14 nights.
• Shoulder season: travelling in May, June, or September (depending on destination) costs 20–40% less than July–August.
• Independent vs. all-inclusive: in low-cost destinations (Asia, Central America), going independent is cheaper and more flexible. In expensive destinations (Maldives, Seychelles), all-inclusive can offer better value.
• Fee-free cards: use cards like Revolut or similar to avoid the 2–3% foreign exchange fee.
• Honeymoon fund: ask your guests to contribute to the trip instead of buying gifts. Many couples fund their entire honeymoon this way.

When to book for the best prices

Booking early is your greatest weapon for a budget honeymoon. The sooner you lock in flights, the more flexibility you'll have on dates and prices.

1. 9–12 months ahead: long-haul flights (Asia, the Americas). Fares rise sharply from 3 months out.
2. 6–9 months ahead: European flights and accommodation. In peak season, earlier is better.
3. 3–4 months ahead: activities, excursions, and special restaurants that need a reservation.
4. Last minute: only advisable if your dates are completely flexible. There may be deals, but also a risk of selling out.

For a deeper dive into timing, we have a complete guide on when to book your honeymoon with a month-by-month calendar.

How to fit your honeymoon into your wedding budget

The most common mistake is leaving the honeymoon until last and discovering there's "no money left." Your honeymoon is a line item in the wedding budget — and one of the most important ones for you as a couple.

These tips will help you avoid running short:

• Set aside 10–15% of your total budget for the trip.
• Include it from the very start of your planning, not as a last-minute add-on.
• If the budget is tight, choose a nearby destination (Portugal, Greece) and save on flights.
• Perspective: €2,000 for 14 days in Thailand equals just 3–4 nights at a Maldives hotel. The destination changes everything.

With the Weddings.help budget calculator, you can assign your honeymoon as a line item and track all your wedding expenses in one place, with no surprises.

And if you want a step-by-step guide to organising the whole trip, take a look at our article on how to plan your honeymoon.

Frequently asked questions

Where should we go for a budget honeymoon?

The best places for a budget honeymoon are in Southeast Asia (Thailand, Bali, Vietnam, Sri Lanka) and Central American countries like Costa Rica or Guatemala. In Europe, Portugal, Greece (away from the busiest islands) and the Balkans are also very affordable. A 10–14 day honeymoon in Asia or Central America can cost between €1,500 and €2,500 per couple including flights.

Is it possible to have a honeymoon for under €1,000?

Yes, if you choose a nearby European destination (Portugal, Greece, Croatia) in low season with budget airlines. Five to seven-day getaways at that budget are feasible, though you'll need to adjust the length and type of accommodation.

Is an all-inclusive package worth it for a honeymoon?

It depends on the destination. In low-cost countries (Asia, Central America), travelling independently is usually cheaper and more flexible. In expensive destinations like the Maldives or Seychelles, all-inclusive can offer better value for money and fewer surprises.

How much do couples typically spend on a honeymoon?

The average spend is between €3,000 and €5,000 per couple, but it varies hugely depending on destination and duration. With the destinations in this guide, you can halve that figure without giving up an unforgettable experience.