110 Cheap Romantic Holiday Destinations for Couples
- Vanshika Mahtre
- Apr 18
- 10 min read
Romance doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. Whether you're newlyweds, long-time lovers, or somewhere in between, there’s nothing like stealing away for a cozy escape together.
Destination | Country | Romantic Highlights | Budget (Per Day) | Best Time to Visit |
Udaipur | India | Lakes, Palaces, Culture | ₹2,000–₹4,000/day | October–March |
Manali | India | Mountains, Snow, Adventure | ₹1,500–₹3,500/day | October–February |
Kasol | India | Riverside, Mountains, Cafes | ₹1,200–₹2,500/day | March–June |
Coorg | India | Coffee Plantations, Nature | ₹2,000–₹3,000/day | October–March |
Munnar | India | Tea Gardens, Hills, Waterfalls | ₹1,500–₹3,000/day | September–May |
Pondicherry | India | Beaches, French Architecture | ₹1,800–₹3,200/day | October–March |
Gokarna | India | Beaches, Temples, Yoga | ₹1,000–₹2,500/day | November–March |
Lonavala | India | Hills, Forts, Monsoon Scenery | ₹1,500–₹3,000/day | July–September |
Darjeeling | India | Tea Estates, Hills, Toy Train | ₹2,000–₹3,500/day | March–June |
Shillong | India | Waterfalls, Nature, Culture | ₹2,000–₹3,500/day | October–May |
Bali | Indonesia | Beaches, Temples, Villas | ₹2,000–₹4,000/day | April–October |
Hoi An | Vietnam | Lantern Streets, Ancient Town | ₹1,800–₹3,000/day | February–April |
Chiang Mai | Thailand | Temples, Mountains, Culture | ₹1,500–₹2,800/day | November–February |
Pokhara | Nepal | Lakes, Mountains, Trekking | ₹1,500–₹3,000/day | September–April |
Galle | Sri Lanka | Beaches, Forts, Colonial Charm | ₹1,800–₹3,200/day | November–April |
Paro | Bhutan | Mountains, Monasteries, Peace | ₹2,000–₹3,500/day | March–May, Sep–Nov |
Istanbul | Turkey | History, Mosques, Bosphorus | ₹2,500–₹4,000/day | April–June, Sep–Nov |
Tbilisi | Georgia | Old Town, Wine, Mountains | ₹2,000–₹3,500/day | April–June, Sep–Oct |
Athens | Greece | Ruins, Culture, Mediterranean | ₹2,500–₹4,000/day | March–May, Oct–Nov |
Budapest | Hungary | River Cruise, Castles, Thermal Baths | ₹2,200–₹3,800/day | March–May, Sep–Nov |
But let’s be honest—traveling as a couple can quickly become expensive. The good news? There are plenty of destinations around the world (and even within India) that are both affordable and ridiculously romantic.
Here’s a list of cheap romantic holiday destinations for couples that offer unforgettable experiences without draining your wallet.
1. Udaipur, India – The City of Lakes and Love
Udaipur is pure romance. With its grand palaces, serene lakes, and rooftop restaurants overlooking heritage forts, it's the kind of place that feels straight out of a love story.
Why it’s perfect for couples:
Boat rides on Lake Pichola with views of the City Palace and Jag Mandir.
Sunset dinners at Ambrai Ghat.
Wander hand-in-hand through the narrow lanes of the old city.
Budget Tip: Stay in a heritage haveli guesthouse instead of a luxury hotel – you’ll still get the royal vibe for a fraction of the cost.
2. Bali, Indonesia – Tropical Bliss on a Budget
Bali is paradise for couples who love nature, adventure, and pampering—all without the luxury price tag. You can find private villas with pools, candlelight beach dinners, and couple’s massages for very reasonable rates.
Why it’s perfect for couples:
Rice terrace walks in Ubud.
Romantic waterfalls and hidden beaches.
Sunset views at Tanah Lot or Uluwatu Temple.
Budget Tip: Avoid peak tourist seasons and eat at local warungs (small restaurants) to save a ton while enjoying authentic Balinese flavors.
3. Pondicherry, India – French Charm by the Sea
Pondicherry feels like a slice of Europe with its French colonial architecture, pastel buildings, and charming cafes. It's quiet, artsy, and perfect for slow romantic strolls and beachside conversations.
Why it’s perfect for couples:
Biking through the French Quarter.
Sunrise walks along Promenade Beach.
Cozy brunches in boho-style cafes.
Budget Tip: Book stays in ashram guesthouses or quaint homestays in the White Town area for a peaceful and inexpensive experience.
4. Vietnam – Exotic, Affordable, and Full of Magic
Vietnam is an underrated gem for couples. From the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An to the karst limestone islands of Ha Long Bay, it’s an ideal mix of adventure and romance.
Why it’s perfect for couples:
Cruise together through Ha Long Bay.
Explore ancient towns and night markets.
Share bowls of pho and Vietnamese iced coffee.
Budget Tip: Use overnight buses to travel between cities instead of flights to save money and skip paying for a hotel night.
5. Munnar, India – Misty Mountains and Tea Gardens
Want peace, chilly mornings, and endless green views? Munnar in Kerala is perfect. It’s a refreshing break from the hustle and bustle, and perfect for couples who want to slow down and enjoy nature.
Why it’s perfect for couples:
Walks through sprawling tea estates.
Early morning sunrise points with clouds at your feet.
Cuddling up with hot chai and homemade chocolates.
Budget Tip: Skip resorts and opt for local homestays—they’re often warmer (in hospitality!) and easier on the wallet.
6. Greece (Off-season) – Blue Domes and Beautiful Memories
Santorini might sound expensive, but if you visit Greece in the off-season (October to April), you can enjoy beautiful stays, Mediterranean food, and dreamy views on a budget.
Why it’s perfect for couples:
Sunset in Oia, one of the most romantic views in the world.
Quiet beaches and ancient ruins.
Delicious wine and seaside dining.
Budget Tip: Visit lesser-known islands like Naxos or Paros—they’re just as romantic and much cheaper than Mykonos or Santorini.
7. Sri Lanka – Beaches, Culture, and Affordable Luxury
Just a short flight from India, Sri Lanka offers golden beaches, scenic train rides, and wildlife safaris. It’s an all-in-one romantic adventure at a price that’s very couple-friendly.
Why it’s perfect for couples:
Galle’s colonial charm and beach sunsets.
Scenic train ride through the hills of Ella.
Waterfalls, tea plantations, and ancient temples.
Budget Tip: Use local buses and tuk-tuks instead of taxis and book accommodations directly with guesthouses for lower rates.
8. Rishikesh, India – Spiritual Love by the Ganges
Looking for something peaceful and meaningful? Rishikesh isn’t just for yogis—it’s also a beautiful place to reconnect with your partner on a deeper level.
Why it’s perfect for couples:
Ganga aarti and peaceful evenings by the river.
Yoga sessions and spiritual retreats together.
Riverside cafes with mountain views.
Budget Tip: Stay at riverside ashrams or backpacker hostels with private rooms for a budget-friendly spiritual retreat.
9. Nepal – For the Adventurous Romantic Souls
If you both love the mountains and trekking, Nepal is an unbeatable destination. With affordable food, stay, and activities, you can have a Himalayan adventure that’s both intimate and epic.
Why it’s perfect for couples:
Trekking to viewpoints like Nagarkot or Poon Hill.
Exploring the historic streets of Bhaktapur and Kathmandu.
Stargazing in the mountains.
Budget Tip: Travel during shoulder seasons (March–April or September–October) for good weather and cheaper rates.
10. Meghalaya, India – Hidden Romance in the Clouds
For couples who love exploring new, offbeat places, Meghalaya is a fairytale land. Waterfalls, caves, forests, and crystal-clear rivers make it one of the most romantic spots in India that’s still under the radar.
Why it’s perfect for couples:
Kayak on the transparent waters of Dawki.
Chase waterfalls in Cherrapunji.
Stay in dreamy treehouses or eco lodges.
Budget Tip: Hire a local taxi driver for the entire trip—cheaper than point-to-point bookings and they double as guides.
India – Budget Romantic Getaways
Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Kasol, Himachal Pradesh
Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh
Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh
Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
Mussoorie, Uttarakhand
Nainital, Uttarakhand
Ranikhet, Uttarakhand
Lansdowne, Uttarakhand
Auli, Uttarakhand
Jaipur, Rajasthan
Jaisalmer, Rajasthan
Pushkar, Rajasthan
Mount Abu, Rajasthan
Kumbhalgarh, Rajasthan
Coorg, Karnataka
Gokarna, Karnataka
Chikmagalur, Karnataka
Hampi, Karnataka
Sakleshpur, Karnataka
Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu
Yercaud, Tamil Nadu
Varkala, Kerala
Kovalam, Kerala
Alleppey (Alappuzha), Kerala
Wayanad, Kerala
Thekkady, Kerala
Vagamon, Kerala
Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu
Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu
Dhanushkodi, Tamil Nadu
Lonavala, Maharashtra
Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra
Panchgani, Maharashtra
Igatpuri, Maharashtra
Bhandardara, Maharashtra
Alibaug, Maharashtra
Tarkarli, Maharashtra
Lavasa, Maharashtra
Pelling, Sikkim
Ravangla, Sikkim
Gangtok, Sikkim
Kalimpong, West Bengal
Darjeeling, West Bengal
Dooars, West Bengal
Ziro Valley, Arunachal Pradesh
Majuli Island, Assam
Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh
Shillong, Meghalaya
🌏 Asia – International Budget Romantic Escapes
Hoi An, Vietnam
Hanoi, Vietnam
Da Lat, Vietnam
Luang Prabang, Laos
Siem Reap, Cambodia
Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Bangkok, Thailand
Chiang Mai, Thailand
Pai, Thailand
Krabi, Thailand
Langkawi, Malaysia
Penang, Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Ubud, Bali, Indonesia
Nusa Penida, Indonesia
Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Lombok, Indonesia
Sihanoukville, Cambodia
Pokhara, Nepal
Nagarkot, Nepal
Kathmandu, Nepal
Thimphu, Bhutan
Paro, Bhutan
Phuentsholing, Bhutan
Colombo, Sri Lanka
Ella, Sri Lanka
Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka
Mirissa, Sri Lanka
Galle, Sri Lanka
Bentota, Sri Lanka
🌍 Rest of the World – Budget-Friendly Romantic Spots
Tbilisi, Georgia
Batumi, Georgia
Baku, Azerbaijan
Almaty, Kazakhstan
Istanbul, Turkey
Cappadocia, Turkey
Sofia, Bulgaria
Plovdiv, Bulgaria
Bucharest, Romania
Brasov, Romania
Belgrade, Serbia
Kotor, Montenegro
Sarajevo, Bosnia
Skopje, North Macedonia
Athens, Greece (off-season)
Naxos, Greece
Algarve, Portugal
Porto, Portugal
Krakow, Poland
Budapest, Hungary
Final Tips to Keep It Romantic and Budget-Friendly:
Travel off-season: Not only is it cheaper, but places are also less crowded—perfect for romance.
Choose local experiences: Street food, homestays, and public transport can be both romantic and budget-friendly.
Set a flexible budget: Keep a “splurge once” rule—like a fancy dinner or a spa date to make one moment extra special.
Make it about each other: Even a simple chai by the beach or a long walk can feel luxurious if you’re fully present.
Love Doesn’t Need a Luxury Tag
In the end, the most romantic memories are built on shared smiles, stolen kisses, and the joy of exploring the world hand-in-hand. Whether you're on a shoestring budget or just want to travel smart, these cheap romantic destinations offer just the right mix of charm, adventure, and affordability.
So go ahead—pick a spot, pack your bags, and take off for a dreamy escape together. After all, love is the best journey of all.
Romantic Holiday Destinations in India for Couples on a Budget - FAQs
General Questions
What are the best budget-friendly romantic destinations in India?
India offers numerous affordable yet romantic destinations for couples. Some top choices include Udaipur (Rajasthan), Pondicherry, Darjeeling (West Bengal), Munnar (Kerala), Goa (during off-season), Kodaikanal (Tamil Nadu), Alleppey (Kerala), Jaipur (Rajasthan), Shimla (Himachal Pradesh), and Coorg (Karnataka). These destinations offer a perfect blend of scenic beauty, romantic settings, and affordable accommodation options without compromising on the experience.
When is the best time to visit romantic destinations in India on a budget?
For most budget travelers, shoulder seasons (just before or after peak tourist seasons) offer the best value. Generally, September-November and February-March are excellent times to visit most Indian destinations. Avoid peak winter (December-January) for northern hill stations and summer monsoons (June-August) for coastal areas. Off-season travel can save you 30-50% on accommodation and activities, though weather conditions may vary.
How much should we budget for a romantic week-long trip in India?
A comfortable yet budget-friendly romantic getaway for a week in India can cost between ₹25,000-₹50,000 for a couple, depending on your destination and travel style. This includes accommodation (₹1,500-₹3,000 per night), meals (₹1,000-₹1,500 per day), local transportation (₹500-₹1,000 per day), and activities/sightseeing (₹3,000-₹5,000 total). Traveling during off-season and booking in advance can significantly reduce these costs.
What's the ideal duration for a romantic getaway in India?
A 5-7 day trip is ideal for most romantic destinations in India. This gives you enough time to explore the destination without rushing, enjoy quality time together, and experience both tourist attractions and hidden gems. For hill stations like Darjeeling or Kodaikanal, 4-5 days is sufficient. For destinations with more activities like Goa or Kerala, 7-10 days would be more appropriate.
Destination-Specific Questions
Which hill stations offer the most romantic yet affordable experiences?
Darjeeling, Kodaikanal, and Kasol offer the perfect blend of romance and affordability. In Darjeeling, couples can enjoy stunning Himalayan views, tea garden visits, and the toy train ride. Kodaikanal features misty landscapes, boat rides on the lake, and cozy cafes. Kasol offers riverside camping, hot springs, and serene hiking trails. Off-season stays in these destinations can cost as little as ₹1,000-₹2,000 per night with breathtaking mountain views.
Are beach destinations in India affordable for couples?
Absolutely! While Goa can be expensive during peak season (December-January), visiting during February-April or October-November offers significantly lower prices. Beyond Goa, consider Varkala in Kerala, Gokarna in Karnataka, and Pondicherry, which offer beautiful beaches, romantic sunsets, and affordable beachside accommodations starting from ₹1,500 per night. Many beach destinations also offer budget-friendly water activities and complimentary sunrise/sunset views.
Which heritage cities offer romantic experiences without breaking the bank?
Udaipur, Jaipur, and Pondicherry offer incredible heritage experiences at reasonable prices. Udaipur, known as the "Venice of the East," features stunning lakes, palaces, and affordable rooftop restaurants with lake views. Jaipur's pink city charm, historic forts, and local markets create a romantic atmosphere. Pondicherry blends French colonial architecture with Indian culture, offering quaint cafes and quiet beaches. Budget accommodations in heritage buildings start from ₹1,800 per night in these cities.
Is Kerala suitable for budget romantic holidays?
Kerala is excellent for budget-conscious couples seeking romance. Alleppey offers affordable houseboat experiences starting from ₹5,000 for a day cruise (much cheaper than overnight stays). Munnar's tea plantations and Varkala's cliff-side beaches provide romantic settings at reasonable prices. Staying in homestays (₹1,500-₹2,500 per night) rather than resorts can save significantly while providing authentic experiences and home-cooked Kerala cuisine.
Planning & Logistics
How can we save on accommodation while maintaining a romantic atmosphere?
Look for boutique guesthouses, heritage homestays, and small family-run properties that often offer charming accommodations at lower prices than chain hotels. Many budget properties have special "honeymoon rooms" or rooftop spaces with great views. Booking platforms often have couple-specific deals, and many accommodations offer complimentary romantic touches like room decoration if requested in advance. Sites like Airbnb also feature unique, romantic properties at reasonable rates.
What are some cheap yet romantic activities couples can enjoy?
Many romantic experiences cost little or nothing: sunrise hikes, beach picnics, stargazing in hill stations, walking through local markets, or enjoying street food together. Look for free heritage walks, public gardens, and temple visits. For special experiences, consider affordable boat rides (₹500-₹1,000), cooking classes featuring local cuisine (₹1,000-₹2,000 per couple), or local cultural performances (₹200-₹500 per person).
How can we save on transportation when traveling within India?
For long distances, book train tickets 2-3 months in advance through IRCTC for best prices. Consider overnight sleeper trains or buses to save on accommodation costs. Within destinations, use local transportation like auto-rickshaws, local buses, or rental scooters (₹300-₹600 per day) rather than taxis. Many romantic destinations are compact enough to explore on foot. Transportation apps like Ola and Uber are available in most cities and offer better rates than tourist taxis.
What are some tips for finding affordable yet romantic dining options?
Research local specialties and where locals eat them for authentic experiences at reasonable prices. Many budget hotels and guesthouses have rooftop restaurants with stunning views at a fraction of luxury hotel prices. Consider having your main meal at lunch when many restaurants offer the same food at lower "lunch special" prices. For a special dinner, many mid-range restaurants offer couple packages with decoration and special service if requested in advance.
Unique Experiences
Are there affordable glamping or unique stay options for couples?
Yes! Budget glamping experiences are emerging across India. Consider riverside camps in Rishikesh (₹1,500-₹3,000 per night), desert camps in Jaisalmer (starting ₹2,000 including cultural programs during off-season), or tree houses in Wayanad (from ₹2,500). These provide unique romantic experiences without luxury price tags. Book directly with operators rather than through aggregators for better rates.
What are some hidden gem destinations for couples on a budget?
Consider Varkala instead of more expensive Kerala beaches, Majuli Island in Assam for unique cultural experiences, Shivanasamudra Falls near Bangalore for waterfall romance, Landour near Mussoorie for a quieter hill station experience, or Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh for stunning mountain views without the crowds. These destinations offer the perfect backdrop for romance at significantly lower prices than their more famous counterparts.
Are there affordable wellness retreats for couples?
Yes! Look for ashrams in Rishikesh offering couple yoga packages (₹1,000-₹2,000 per day including accommodation), budget Ayurveda centers in Kerala providing couple treatments (₹2,500-₹4,000 for couple massage sessions), or forest retreats in places like Coorg with affordable wellness packages. Many wellness centers offer significant discounts during off-season or for longer stays.
What souvenirs or romantic mementos can couples buy on a budget?
Consider local handicrafts like Jaipur's blue pottery, Darjeeling tea sets, personalized miniature paintings from Udaipur, or handwoven textiles from various regions. Street markets often offer these at much better prices than tourist shops. Many places also offer couple photoshoots at historical locations starting from ₹2,000-₹3,000 for a one-hour session with digital copies—a lasting memento of your romantic journey.
Comments