17 best honeymoon destinations for brides on a budget

Let's set the predictable scene; you've just dropped your life savings on the wedding of your dreams. You're in desperate need of a holiday with your new significant other. You're not sure you could afford it without selling a vital organ. Ringing any bells? Which is where the best honeymoon destinations for bridges on a budget come in: affordable, beautiful and relaxing . What's not to like?

Croatia and its surrounding islands are having a moment, but that doesn't make it an expensive choice . Choose from the Dalmatian Coast, Dubrovnik, Split or so many other worthy locations for a honeymoon worth remembering, which combines beautiful coast with history, affordable cuisine and Instagrammable day trips.

While flights are quite steep, the actual holiday for two while you're in The Philippines is as affordable as it is beautiful. Think spas, boat trips and 5* hotels, all for the price of a round at the pub in the UK.

"Salvador is the capital of Brazil's north-eastern state of Bahia and is 29% more affordable to stay in December when compared with its most expensive month, making it an even more appealing holiday destination", Booking.com say. "Salvador has something for everyone as it's home to gorgeous coastlines, eclectic cuisine, and the biggest carnival in the world. Top endorsements for visiting Salvador are culture, beaches and culturally diverse food."

Unsurprisingly, the closer to home you stay, the cheaper your flights will likely be, which is why Barcelona is such a great option. Not only do you get the sun on your side and the coast, but a city dripping in culture and things to do. Did someone say 'mini-moon'?

"Think beyond the traditional honeymoon destinations to uncover some lesser-known hidden gems that can still offer similar experiences", Niel Alobaidi, Managing Director at Emirates Holidays UK explains. "For instance, if your heart is set on the Maldives then why not consider its nearby neighbour Sri Lanka instead which also offers stunning, palm-fringed beaches, plus you can add on some amazing touring itineraries to add another dimension."

If you didn't head to Siem Reap on your gap year, why not consider it for your honeymoon? MyVoucherCodes.co.uk named it one of the best value locations for honeymoons in 2019, and with gorgeous temples, ancient ruins and lovely authentic food, you certainly won't run out of things to do.

TripAdvisor Rentals suggests that Crete is the perfect location for honeymooners seeking sun and sea on a budget, and there are endless options for beautiful beaches around the island of Crete – Balos, Chania or Váï. TripAdvisor travel expert Laurel Greatrix adds, “Holiday rentals are great options for newlyweds looking for privacy and relaxation after the stress of planning a wedding.”

"Patong Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Phuket, full of bars, clubs and restaurants for a fun night out in the evening and an extensive list of water sports to try during the day", Booking.com say. "Patong Beach is 49% more affordable in June in comparison with the most expensive month. The top endorsements for visiting Patong Beach are nightlife, beaches and food."

Booking.com's travel experts say, "New Orleans, the birthplace of jazz music and where Mardi Gras is celebrated, is also home to a range of districts seeping with art, music, shopping, restaurants, history and architecture so you're never short of things to do and see. New Orleans is 48% more affordable to stay in August compared to the most expensive month, but it's also a great time to take advantage of the city's Museum Month as well as the music festivals taking place throughout August such as the Satchmo Summerfest."

Every one knows Greece is bloody beautiful, but rather than going for the high price tags of Santorini and Mykonos, Travel Supermarket recommends checking out the lesser known islands such as Koufonisia or Sifnos, or even Peloponnese peninsula, which has the same beautiful cost line at a more affordable price.

Known for beaches, theme-parks and relaxation - as well as being the surf capital of Australia - the Gold Coast's long sandy beaches and sunshine are perfect following the stress of wedding planning. It's apparently 34% more affordable to stay in February than it is compared with the most expensive month - and when it'll be cold here, it's even more of an excuse to go.

"Gozo is a tranquil island known for its rugged landscape and spectacular coastline, often referred to as Malta’s sister island", airFair say, noting that flights will be cheaper than further afield. "Couples can begin married life by exploring ancient ruins, cycling, discovering tucked away beaches and harbours, and tucking into local cuisine at traditional cafes and restaurants."

If you're looking for somewhere slightly more off the beaten track, check out Essaouira in Morocco - the fishing town full of cheap cafes and characters. Lonely Planet say many riads offer reasonable accommodation, "enabling palace-like stays on a pauper’s budget."

It's got the countryside and vineyards comparable to Italy's Tuscany, but without the stereotypical honeymoon price tag. Head to the Douro Valley in Portugal if you're after a holiday that let's you disconnect from the real world and enjoy the company of the person you're with.

While getting to Bali can be expensive, your day-to-day life while you're there won't be - you can stay in some incredible places and eat some delicious food for the fraction of the price of what you'd expect. Be prepared to travel around, though, because you'll want to go to the Gili islands via boat and experience various destinations that the mainland has to offer.

MyVoucherCodes.co.uk named Merida in Mexico one of their best value honeymoon destinations for 2019, and it's not hard to see why couples love it. The gorgeous white beaches paired with unbelievably blue sea makes it super picturesque, with the report claiming the cost of flights, spas and a meal-for-two is also reasonable.

Goa in India made the top 20 best value honeymoon destinations, with many citing anytime between October & April as the best time to go. Goa has luxury resorts and sandy beaches; markets and restaurants; activities and places to chill out, meaning you can make your honeymoon suit you.