For a lot of us, the cost-of-living crisis is putting a bit of a crimp on the finer things in life right now. While we’re having to scrimp and save more than we might be used to lately, there’s some good news for newlyweds: you can still celebrate marrying your best friend in one of the world’s most luxurious destinations without having to empty out your wallet.
Incredible accommodation. Exclusive resorts. Memories to last a lifetime. You can have all this – and more – for way less than you’d imagine. And since your wedding probably cost a packet, we’re sure you’ll be breathing a sigh of relief after reading that.
Need a little inspiration for your post-tying the knot trip? We’ve got you covered. Here, we’ll take you on a tour around the honeymoon destinations that won’t break the bank, along with some top honeymoon tips for saving money while you’re having the time of your life.
Where are the most affordable honeymoon destinations?
If it’s budget-friendly wedded bliss you’re after, these luxurious destinations are just the place for cut-price, coupled-up holidays.
1. Croatia
Dubrovnik’s great, but it’s a little on the pricey side. For something more affordable that doesn’t skimp on the luxury side of things, Split makes for a great choice. A real showcase of what Croatia has to offer, its museums and iconic Old Town are great for long, languid walks around, hand-in-hand, and there’s plenty of beaches to choose from too. And with a red-hot nightlife, passionate types looking to dance the night away are in for a treat too.
2. Portugal
Cheaper than its Spanish neighbours, but still with lots of the sunny stuff to go around, Portugal could well be the go-to for newlyweds in need of a budget beach getaway. Case in point: The Algarve’s sugary sands, turquoise waters and nearby seafood restaurants all make for an incredible combination. Plus, the Mediterranean’s irresistible romantic side means love is always in the air, and what could be better than that?
3. Mexico
Just off its east coast, Mexico’s Riviera Maya makes for a slice of paradise on a budget. Sought after but unspoiled by big price points, this resort-style haven packs in the tropical vibes for a fraction of the cost. Or you could head to the nearby city of Tulum for some best-kept-secret-style honeymooning instead? Beaches are still plentiful, but the Mayan ruins give it a dramatic side that’s well worth exploring.
4. Greece
With 227 islands populating the place, you really are spoiled for choice when it comes to cheap honeymoon destinations in Greece. And with all manner of direct flights and sailings, getting to them is a breeze too. If you’re looking to tick off a few different places from that to-travel list in one go, then Greece is well worth going to.
5. Puerto Rico
Can’t splash out on that cross-Caribbean holiday you had your heart set on? No problem! A trip to Puerto Rico lets you get your island vibe fix in a more budget-friendly way. Hotels are more than affordable here, and the cheap-as-chips Ubers mean you’re not having to fork out to just get around. And in return, you’ll get your share of resorts, unbelievable beaches and a nightlife packed with alluring, amorous places to toast each other in.
6. Florida Keys
If the Caribbean’s too far out for you, then Florida is a more than worthy honeymoon destination. For one, you’ll still find the white sand beaches and infinite supply of sunshine to bask on and in. It’s also much different than the Florida you may be familiar with, boasting a way more chilled feel that makes it a true escape from the hustle and bustle of the mainland. And when you’re on a honeymoon, that’s exactly what you want.
7. Bali, Indonesia
Couples’ massages, yoga retreats, cooking classes – Bali is the kind of serene, sensuous destination that honeymoons were made for, the kind of place that makes connecting with each other as easy as unwinding in an infinity pool. Not the take-it-easy type? Bali can help you find your wild side too; from exotic bird sightings to surf lessons, there’s something for born explorers to find their own kind of zen with here too.
Is a cruise a good idea for a honeymoon?
We were never going to say no to this were we? Our answer is, of course: yes, cruises are a great idea for a honeymoon, and here’s why:
- You can stick to your budget: When everything is covered in one all-inclusive fee, there’s no risk of going overboard – figuratively or literally
- They’re minimoon friendly: What’s a minimoon we hear you ask? After your wedding, you might be feeling a little drained. The minimoon is a 2-5 day break that’s the perfect amount of time to recharge those batteries, and with many cruise itineraries available for the same duration, there are all manner of minimoon destinations to cater to you
- You can visit multiple locations: There’s something about waking up in a new port each and every morning that’s hard to argue with. Maybe it’s because you don’t have to repack anything, or maybe it’s the fact you can tick a couple more destinations off your bucket list in no time at all
- The chance to unwind: When you’re on a cruise, everything you need to sit back, relax and forget about the outside world is in one place. Swimming pools, spa treatments, saunas – they’re all here and waiting to sweep you and your spouse away to new levels of relaxation
- They’re a foodie’s dream: As well as what’s onboard, you’ll get to dine on a banquet of new and exciting flavours from around the world in port too. And since food is the language of love, there’s plenty of different ways to your partner’s heart during a cruise
Top honeymoon tips for saving money
Like we said, your wedding was probably a little on the pricey side. That means you’re probably in need of a few travel hacks while you’re away to make your money go a little further. Here’s what you can do:
- Fly out on a weekday: The cheapest days of the week to fly out are Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays – usually at 5 – 7am or after 8pm. Try booking your flight for these times and days
- Go in shoulder seasons: If you’re not bothered by a bit of rain, then travelling at off-peak times can pay off nicely since flights and hotels are often cheaper than packed-out peak seasons
- Choose somewhere less well known: Popular destinations always have skyrocketing prices. But you can bring that high cost back down to earth by opting to go somewhere a little more off the beaten track
- Make use of credit card rewards: If you’ve been accumulating points or rewards on your credit card, then your honeymoon is definitely the time to make use of them!
We hope you’ve found these budget-friendly honeymoon options helpful. Ready to set sail on the holiday of a lifetime with your hubby or wifey? For more inspiration, head to our homepage and start getting excited all over again.