While planning the perfect wedding day, who doesn’t look into a honeymoon to match? But with all the flowers, presents for guests and flights, the costs can really add up. These 10 honeymoon destinations won’t break the bank, but are lovely nonetheless.

With these 10 budget-friendly getaways, you can save on your money without sacrificing the unique experiences, dynamic cultures, and mouth-watering cuisine of your honeymoon experience.

1. Morocco

Arabian exoticism, fragrant spices – and wonderfully low prices. You will be pressed to find a cheaper honeymoon destination than Morocco. In Marrakech, Fez and Essaouira you will find medinas in which you seem to go back in time, between the many characteristic and cheap cafes. Let go of your sense of direction and get lost in the maze-like souks – the shopping options are endless, from rugs to babouches. Converted riads (spacious traditional houses with a courtyard) serve as atmospheric accommodations; some are pricey but most are budget friendly, allowing you to have a royal stay on a budget.

2. India

Although India is known for cheap living, the country is slowly becoming more expensive. However, for Western travelers it is still considered quite cheap. Well, the lavish Palace on Wheels trains may be pricey, but even thrifty honeymooners can afford the first class of the Indian train: an overnight train from Delhi to Udaipur costs about $18 for second class and for about $10 extra it’s possible to book a first-class sleeping compartment.

3. Vietnam

In Vietnam you can get by on less than $9 per day and still eat like a king – it really is street food heaven. Be sure to try the country’s signature dishes such as beef pho, bun cha (barbecue pork with rice noodles), and bánh mi (baguette) as you stroll around. But, even if you spend a little more on luxuries in Vietnam it won’t break the bank. Even with a small budget it’s possible to sleep in historical guest houses or join a cruise on the Ha Long Bay. Memorable and romantic experiences such as cooking courses or bike tours are quite cheap, making it a perfect destination for active couples.

4. Portugal

Portugal is liberating. The petty fears (‘Is that café too fancy for us? Can we afford another coffee?’) do not exist here. Even in the more luxurious establishments, an espresso costs less than one euro and beer usually no more than two. You’ll catch yourself ordering a second pastel de nata (divine Portuguese custard tarts). Because why not? There are nice casas and converted farmhouses that bathe in charm – for less than 100 euros per night.

5. Indonesia

Indonesia has been a popular tourism destination for ages, but costs are still low. Rooms are available from the frightening amount of 350,000 rupiah, but that is only $25. You’ll feel like a millionaire here, so even honeymooners on a budget can afford a lot of fun. Bali is an obvious choice, as it has great beaches, boutique stays, culture in Ubud and great surfing spots. However, the popularity also increases costs. And Indonesia has 17,000 islands! Contemplate Lombok and the Gili Islands, culture and volcanoes in Java and jungle adventures in Sumatra.

6. Honduras

Honduras is the economical choice in Central America. Cheap meals and lodging are easy to find. It is also one of the cheapest places to learn to dive. Head to the white sands of Utila for scuba diving or, cheaper yet, simply relax on a beach next to the Caribbean Sea. The nearby islands of Cayos Cochinos offer the most romantic escape. Swoon at the Mayan ruins of Copán and go on an adventure in Pico Bonito National Park.

7. Cambodja

Cambodia is a happy marriage between world-famous sights and budget-friendly prices. It’s home to world-famous Angkor Wat, where you’ll pay around $70 for a seven-day entry ticket – ridiculously expensive compared to everything else in the country, but comparably cheap for a week of exploring the UNESCO World Heritage jungle and temples. Inexpensive beer ($1), cheap meals ($2) and increasingly better, very reasonable accommodations are the icing on the cake.

8. Bulgaria

Not the most obvious honeymoon, but an inexpensive option no matter the season. Capital Sofia has plenty to interest city lovers. Sun worshipers can indulge themselves at the Black Sea: soft sand, beer for $2 – who wouldn’t want that? Winter sports enthusiasts can ski in Europe’s cheapest ski area: Bansko and Borovets have slopes for all abilities, family guesthouses, pleasant bars and (thanks to that cheap beer) lively après-ski.

9. South Africa

Safaris are usually not very budget friendly, but in South Africa you can save money by going out on your own. Kruger National Park’s roads don’t require expensive 4x4s and you can stay overnight at camp sites along the route. Across the country, food prices are good and accommodations are plentiful, ensuring there is something for all budgets. The winery hotels in the Western Cape are particularly good value for money compared to those in rival wine regions around the world. The best bargain? The Shosholoza Meyl sleeper train runs along much the same scenic route as the luxurious Blue Train between Johannesburg and Cape Town, for just a fraction of the price.

10. Puerto Rico

The Spanish-speaking islands usually offer the best value in the paradise, yet expensive, Caribbean. Puerto Rico has affordable guesthouses and resorts, with superb beaches and more history than most other islands. Capital San Juan is one of the oldest cities in America. For an extra touch of magic during your honeymoon, go kayaking at night among glowing plankton in one of the bioluminescent bays. If you want to save extra, go in May: prices are up to 40% lower from May to early December due to hurricane season (June-November), but risks are low in May.

Can’t afford your dream honeymoon? Try this!

Bhutan too expensive? Try Nepal… If Bhutan’s tourist fare of nearly $250 a day is a bit much, choose Nepal – here, too, you’ll find breathtaking views of the Himalayas and temple culture for a fraction of the price.

Italy too expensive? Try Croatia… For a cheaper, but still beautiful stay on the Adriatic Sea, head to the coast of Croatia; a wine tour of Istria (home to over 100 wineries) is also much cheaper than Tuscany.

Botswana too expensive? Try Namibia… Namibia also has fantastic wildlife, but the wilderness is easier (and cheaper) to explore thanks to good roads, suitable for self-guided 4×4 safaris.

The Galápagos Islands too expensive? Try mainland Ecuador… The Galápagos is an expensive area, so stay on the mainland during your budget honeymoon. Visit Isla de la Plata (aka “the Poor Man’s Galápagos”) for an affordable wildlife experience.

The Maldives too expensive? Try the Andaman Islands… These Indian speckles in the Bay of Bengal offer a cheap getaway sure to make those back home jealous.

Opener image: graphixel / iStock