Many couples dream of taking their ideal vacations together, making memories in exciting countries that they’ve never seen before. However, not all couples can afford to take a luxury vacation to their dream spot. The key to traveling on a budget is finding those hidden gems that offer one-of-a-kind experiences. If you want the best cheap vacation destinations for couples, here’s a few of our favorite finds!
Grand Canyon National Park
If you and your significant other are nature lovers, you may enjoy a trip to the various national parks found throughout the United States. One of the most beautiful parks is Grand Canyon National Park located in picturesque Arizona. During your visit, you can view a large part of the Grand Canyon while hiking. The colorful bands of rock look striking in the sunlight and will make for beautiful pictures. If you’re really an outdoorsy couple, you may even consider camping on the various campgrounds located in both the South and North Rim of the park. Most travelers frequent the South Rim, which is open 365 days a year.
Park admission for a single private vehicle is $35 and is valid for a week. There is also a motorcycle permit ($30) and individual permits ($20 per person). This makes the Grand Canyon a cheap vacation for couples. National Park Service sites also offer free admission a few days a year, including Veterans Day and Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. Annual passes are also available for $70 if you are planning on making multiple visits.
To save some money, you can research local Airbnbs for accommodation. For as little as $150 a night, you may be able to rent an entire house for you and your lover. You can also book single hotel suites for around $120 a night. Just make sure you book in advance and try to steer away from the parks’ busy season.
Tulum, Mexico
If you’re looking for a tropical cheap vacation for couples, Tulum is a great place to check out with your loved one. Known for its pristine white-sand beaches and crystal clear waters, the town is known for having some of the best beaches in Mexico. With a laid back atmosphere and delicious food, you’re sure to enjoy a stay in sunny Mexico.
There is no shortage of activities to enjoy in Tulum. Take the morning to visit the Tulum Ruins, a historic site overlooking the beautiful Caribbean Sea. The entrance fee is only 65 pesos ($3.27 USD). After checking out the ruins, take a refreshing dip in the turquoise waters. You can also partake in activities around the serene seaside town, including yoga, spa services enjoying Mexican cuisine in one of Tulum’s local restaurants.
You can find a great place to stay in Tulum without breaking the bank. There are quality hotel rooms located around town with rates as low as $100 a night. This vacation spot is a great value you’ll return to again and again.
New York City
Everyone has to see NYC at least once. Known as one of the busiest cities in the United States, New York City is a romantic spot for couples who love the metropolitan excitement of a city. There is always something new and crazy happening on the streets of New York. There is no limit to the abundance of activists that NYC has to offer and many of them don’t cost a dime. You can take a stroll under the lush trees in Central Park, stand under the changing screens in Times Square or window shop in SoHo.
Accommodations in New York City can cost a pretty penny if you’re dead set on staying in a hotel. However, sites like Airbnb can have rentals available for more reasonable prices. A studio apartment in Midtown is available for just $60 a night while an apartment on the Upper East Side is $230 a night. You can also utilize the subway to get around the city to keep from spending a fortune on taxi cab fare. If you do enough digging, there are many ways to visit NYC on a budget.
Lisbon, Portugal
Dreaming of a European cheap vacation for couples, without the luxury price tag? Take a trip to Lisbon to soak in historic castles and stunning views of the coast. Less expensive than Spain and France, Portugal still has the European Old World charm that many visitors flock to year after year. With a variety of historic attractions to visit, there is plenty to do in Lisbon to keep you and your significant other occupied.
If you like wine, plan an outing to one of Lisbon’s wineries for a wine tour. You can also go out for an evening of wine tasting at BA Wine Bar. You can also make a reservation at Casa do Alentejo, a building dating back to the 17th century that once belonged to one of the richest families in the city. Enjoy Portuguese cuisine in a stunning setting like royals.
Despite your plane ticket eating up a big chunk of your budget, accommodations in Lisbon are inexpensive with rooms available at less than $100 a night. Research a hotel near the attractions you’d like to see and book your trip to Europe today.
Jamaica
Another great option for beach lovers searching for an affordable tropical vacation, Jamaica is known for a great spot to soak up the sun and enjoy the vibrant culture of the area. There are many activities to take part in all over the island. The two of you may choose to swim in the Blue Lagoon in Port Antonio or go snorkeling in Montego Bay. You can also opt for a more relaxed pace: enjoying a spa day or visiting one of the beautiful beaches. You can enjoy the beautiful Caribbean water at a fraction of the price.
Finding a place to stay in Jamaica depends largely on what area of the island you’d like to be in. If you’d like to stay near Kingston, hotel suites will be around $180 a night. However, hotels near Montego Bay on the opposite coast will be closer to $220 a night. Make sure you take into account the island’s busy season as rates will likely be higher in the summer months. Jamaica’s weather makes it a perfect place to visit year-round, so planning a trip during the wintertime may be easier on your budget. For tips to help you save towards your budget, view our article 5 Incredible Tips to Help You Afford Travel.
