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12 Low-budget vacation ideas for couples in the US and nearby
Looking for low-budget vacation ideas for couples? Discover charming, affordable destinations in the US, Mexico, Canada, and Puerto Rico — perfect for romantic getaways without the high cost.
People say if you really want to know someone, travel with them. Not on a five-star resort trip — but when your bus breaks down, you’re running on snacks and laughter, and the hotel doesn’t look quite like the photos. That’s when you bond, adapt, and make memories.
But that doesn’t mean cheap vacations have to be low quality. With a bit of planning and the right destination, budget-friendly trips can be even more meaningful—and far more fun—than their pricey counterparts.
In this guide, you’ll find low-budget vacation ideas for couples that are just as romantic and adventurous as they are affordable. We’ve gathered U.S. destinations and a few nearby getaways that don’t require long flights or big spending — just quality time and a little curiosity.
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Low-budget vacation ideas for couples in the USA
Some of the best low-budget vacation ideas for couples in the US are also the most charming. These affordable vacation spots offer everything from mountain views to vibrant city life, making them ideal for weekend getaways for couples or longer escapes. With the right mix of planning and spontaneity, vacations for couples don’t have to come with a big price tag.
1. Asheville, North Carolina
Best for: Cozy nature and mountain views
Why go: A laid-back mountain town where couples can explore nature, enjoy local art, and experience craft breweries—all on a modest budget.
Things to do and see:
- Drive the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway: Enjoy panoramic views of the Smoky Mountains with numerous spots for photos and picnics.
- Hike nearby forest trails: Choose from a variety of trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes, many leading to stunning waterfalls.
- Visit art galleries in the River Arts District: Explore a vibrant community of artists with galleries and studios open to the public.
- Stay in a mountain cabin or B&B: Find charming accommodations that offer comfort and value, especially when booked in advance.
- Explore Asheville’s brewery scene: Sample a variety of craft beers in one of the many local breweries, often featuring live music and events.
Estimated cost: Approximately $159 per person per day, covering accommodations, meals, local transportation, and activities.
Pro tip: Traveling midweek can help you avoid crowds and reduce accommodation and transportation costs, as many rentals offer discounts during these times.
2. San Antonio, Texas
Best for: Culture and river strolls
Why go: A walkable city with historic sites, affordable food, and a scenic riverside atmosphere — ideal for couples looking for a mix of charm and value.
Things to do and see:
- Stroll the River Walk: A relaxing pedestrian path lined with restaurants, public art, and shaded spots to sit and watch the river flow.
- Explore historical sites like the Alamo: Entry is free, and it’s just one of many places to learn about the city’s deep history.
- Sample local street food: Affordable and flavorful, San Antonio’s food truck scene includes everything from tacos to Texas BBQ.
- Visit nearby museums and markets: Cultural centers and indoor markets offer low-cost ways to enjoy local art and shopping.
- Use public transportation: VIA buses and streetcars connect key attractions, helping you get around without renting a car.
Estimated cost: Approximately $139 per person per day, including accommodations, meals, transport, and basic sightseeing.
Source: budgetyourtrip.com
Pro tip: Stay in a hotel just off the River Walk — you’ll enjoy one of the best cheap vacations while still being within walking distance of the city’s top spots.
3. Savannah, Georgia
Best for: Southern charm and romance
Why go: A historic city known for its oak-lined streets, walkable neighborhoods, and romantic atmosphere — ideal for couples on a modest budget.
Things to do and see:
- Walk the cobblestone streets: Explore the historic district’s shaded squares and preserved 18th-century architecture.
- Relax in Forsyth Park: One of the city’s most iconic green spaces, perfect for picnics, photos, and people watching.
- Tour historic homes and sites: Many have low entry fees or self-guided options for history lovers on a budget.
- Stay in a local inn or B&B: Affordable and full of charm, especially outside of peak travel dates.
- Browse local shops and markets: Great for casual strolling and picking up unique finds from souvenir stands.
Estimated cost: Approximately $141 per person per day, including lodging, meals, and activities.
Pro tip: Book accommodations early if you’re traveling during spring or fall — Savannah fills up quickly during festival season.
4. Denver, Colorado
Best for: Outdoor adventures
Why go: A great pick for couples who want access to nature without leaving the city. Denver offers easy day trips, brewery hopping, and budget-friendly places to stay.
Things to do and see:
- Take a day trip to a national park: Rocky Mountain National Park and other scenic areas are just a short drive away.
- Hike near the city: Dozens of nearby hiking trails offer everything from short scenic loops to challenging climbs.
- Visit Colorado Springs: A quick trip south brings you to red rock formations, gardens, and budget-friendly attractions.
- Explore local breweries: The city’s beer scene is big, affordable, and great for casual date nights.
- Use a rental car for a tour: Ideal for building your own road trip through the mountains at your own pace.
Estimated cost: Approximately $154 per person per day, including lodging, meals, transportation, and activities.
Pro tip: Use a mix of city transit and rental car access to keep transportation costs low while reaching scenic spots outside the metro area.
5. Taos, New Mexico
Best for: Southwest charm on a budget
Why go: A small town with big views, Taos combines mountain landscapes, Native history, and a thriving local art scene — all without high prices, especially off season. It’s one of the cheapest places to visit in April.
Things to do and see:
- Visit Taos Pueblo: A UNESCO World Heritage site with centuries of living history, open to the public for a small fee.
- Explore local art galleries: The town is full of independent galleries featuring regional artists and low-cost exhibits.
- Walk through the historic downtown: Boutique shops, adobe architecture, and local restaurants offer a relaxed pace and low-cost charm.
- Stay in a rustic inn or casita: Plenty of cozy, affordable accommodations are available just minutes from the town center.
- Hike nearby mountain trails: Enjoy scenic routes without paying entrance fees — perfect for cheap vacations that feel far from busy life.
Estimated cost: Approximately $97 per person per day, including food, lodging, and local activities.
Pro tip: Visit during the shoulder seasons. Traveling in April offers cool mornings and warm afternoons without the crowds.
6. Traverse City, Michigan
Best for: Lakeside escapes
Why go: A relaxed, waterfront town offering great scenery, local wine, and small-town charm — ideal for couples seeking low-key, affordable getaways.
Things to do and see:
- Visit the local wineries: Traverse City is known for its wine country, with tastings that are scenic and reasonably priced.
- Drive along Lake Michigan: A perfect area for romantic drives, with beach pull-offs, nature trails, and photo-worthy overlooks.
- Explore the historic downtown: Walkable and full of shops, restaurants, and seasonal events that don’t break the bank.
- Book a lakefront rental or cabin: Lodging near the water is surprisingly affordable, especially outside peak summer.
- Catch the fall colors: If you visit in autumn, this area offers some of the best foliage views in the Midwest.
Estimated cost: Approximately $112 per person per day, including food, lodging, and transportation.
Pro tip: Plan ahead if visiting during cherry season (July) — rates climb quickly and availability gets tight.
7. Olympic Peninsula, Washington
Best for: Forest walks and coastal views
Why go: A quiet, scenic region perfect for couples who want nature, space, and fresh air — without tourist crowds or high costs.
Things to do and see:
- Visit Olympic National Park: A mix of beaches, forests, and mountain trails — entry price qualifies it as one of the cheap vacation ideas, and nature is the main attraction.
- Drive the peninsula loop: A classic road trip route with stops for lakes, waterfalls, and wildlife spotting.
- Stay in a cabin or camp near the coast: There are plenty of rustic, affordable places to stay with access to hiking and water views.
- Explore low cost attractions: Tidepooling, elk spotting, and free public trails make this a true budget friendly destination.
- Bring your own meals or cook: Most cabins and rentals come with kitchens — ideal for saving money on food.
- See Multnomah Falls (if coming from Portland): An iconic Oregon stop with a dramatic drop — it’s free to visit and fits well into a West Coast road trip.
Estimated cost: Approximately $105 per person per day, including lodging, groceries, and park access.
Pro tip: Pack layers — weather changes fast, and planning ahead helps you stay comfortable without last-minute expenses.
Low-budget vacation ideas for couples outside the USA (but nearby)
A romantic couples weekend getaway doesn’t require a passport stamp from across the world. Neighboring destinations like Mexico, Canada, and Puerto Rico are some of the best low-budget vacation ideas for couples — full of character, charm, and culture.
These cheap trips for couples are perfect if you’re looking for an affordable vacation spot that feels like a real escape. With a little planning, each one can turn into a cheap couples getaway filled with connection and adventure.
8. Mexico City, Mexico
Best for: Urban energy and ancient history
Why go: Mexico City is a vibrant cultural hub with art, history, and world-class food—all at a lower cost than many major cities. Mexico is one of the cheapest countries to visit and has so much to offer.
Things to do and see:
- Explore ancient ruins at Teotihuacán: A day trip to the pyramids offers history and views — and it’s affordable.
- Wander neighborhoods like Roma and Condesa: Art galleries, vintage shops, and local cafés define these walkable areas.
- Try the street food: Tacos, tamales, and elotes are everywhere — cheap, delicious, and perfect for people watching.
- Visit museums and markets: Many museums offer low entry fees, and markets are great places for souvenir stands and authentic snacks.
- Visit Plaza Machado (if extending your trip): A historic square with palm-lined walkways, budget-friendly cafés, and live music.
Estimated cost: Approximately $90 per person per day, including lodging, meals, and transportation.
Pro tip: Look for package deals that combine transportation and entry to multiple attractions — a great way to save cash and cover more ground.
9. Isla Holbox, Mexico
Best for: Off-grid beach vibes
Why go: A laid-back island with no cars, calm beaches, and simple pleasures. Being one of the cheap places to visit in Mexico, Holbox is ideal for couples looking to disconnect and recharge without spending much.
Things to do and see:
- Relax on quiet beaches: Most beaches are free, uncrowded, and perfect for slow mornings, sunset walks and a wonderful cheap summer vacation.
- Rent bikes and explore the island: With no cars allowed, cycling is the best (and cheapest) way to get around.
- Try local seafood and snacks: Many small restaurants offer fresh meals at budget-friendly prices.
- Spot bioluminescence at night: During certain months, glowing plankton light up the shoreline — no tour required.
- Book a beachfront cabin or bungalow: Many accommodations offer ocean views for a fraction of what you’d pay elsewhere.
Estimated cost: Approximately $87 per person per day, including food, lodging, and activities.
Pro tip: Bring cash — there are very few ATMs, and many businesses don’t accept cards. Get an eSIM for Mexico, so you don’t have to hunt down local SIM cards.
10. San Juan, Puerto Rico
Best for: Beach + cultural charm
Why go: A tropical mix of history, city life, and nature — all without leaving US territory. One of the best low-budget vacation ideas for couples looking for a warm, low-hassle getaway.
Things to do and see:
- Wander Old San Juan: Colorful streets, Spanish colonial buildings, and plenty of low-cost cafés and shops.
- Visit El Yunque National Forest: The only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Park system — ideal for day hikes and waterfalls.
- Relax on white sand beaches: Public beaches like Ocean Park and Condado are free and easy to reach.
- Explore the nightlife: Bars, music, and salsa clubs — much of it walkable or accessible by bus.
- Stay in a guesthouse or apartment rental: Great value near the beach or in historic areas.
Estimated cost: Approximately $108 per person per day, including meals, lodging, and local transit.
Pro tip: Visit during the off season (May to early November) for lower prices and fewer crowds — just keep an eye on the weather forecast.
11. Montreal, Canada
Best for: European charm without the flight
Why go: A walkable city filled with French culture, historic neighborhoods, and vibrant food scenes — the best vacation for couples who don’t want to splurge for a plane ticket to Europe. Additionally, it’s one of the cheapest places to visit in August.
Things to do and see:
- Explore Old Montreal: Cobblestone streets, river views, and street performers give this area a distinctly European feel.
- Visit local markets and museums: Many are affordable or donation-based, with plenty of low-cost places to eat nearby.
- Take a day trip to Niagara Falls: If you’re extending your trip, the falls are reachable by car or train — a dramatic and budget-friendly way for a romantic getaway.
- Stay in a boutique hotel or apartment rental: More affordable than big chains and usually located in charming, central neighborhoods.
- Use public transportation or rent bikes: Montreal’s metro and Bixi bike system make it easy to get around for less.
Estimated cost: Approximately $106 per person per day, covering lodging, meals, and local travel.
Pro tip: Many museums are free on the first Sunday of the month — plan ahead to make the most of it.
12. Québec City, Canada
Best for: Fairytale European vibes
Why go: One of the best cheap vacations for those looking for a romantic, compact city with historic streets, enjoy French-inspired meals and take in riverside views — all without flying overseas. It’s a great idea for cheap May vacations if you want to visit Canada, but skip Vancouver.
Things to do and see:
- Walk through Old Québec: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with cobblestone streets, 17th-century buildings, and street performers.
- Visit low-cost museums and churches: Many are hidden gems with free entry or offer reduced admission for evening or off-season visits.
- Enjoy affordable French cuisine: Local bistros and bakeries offer great food at lower prices than you’d find in Europe.
- Stay in a guesthouse or historic inn: Cozy, affordable accommodations are easy to find in or near Old Town and make a perfect setting for a romantic getaway.
- Watch sunset over the St. Lawrence River: A simple but unforgettable (and free) way to end the day.
Estimated cost: Approximately $102 per person per day, including lodging, food, and transportation. If your mobile plan doesn’t cover it, get an eSIM for Canada.
Pro tip: Don’t need a car — walking and public transit cover most of the city, and you’ll save on transportation costs.
Tips for planning a couples getaway on a budget
With the right timing and strategy, even the most romantic vacation can be affordable. A little flexibility goes a long way — not just in where you go, but when you go, and how you plan your couple vacation ideas around big-ticket costs.
- Be flexible with your travel dates. Flying midweek or during the off season often means better deals, fewer crowds and cheap vacations for couples. Some even say that there are the cheapest days to fly, which is an idea worth exploring.
- Plan around travel costs. Consider destinations where you can walk, bike, or use public transit. Long drives and well-planned trips can also help you save money while seeing more.
- Book early — or last minute. Depending on the place, this can help you get more reasonable prices on flights or accommodations.
- Prioritize experiences over extras. If you’re working with a limited budget, skip the splurges and focus on what makes a trip meaningful: spending time together.
- Look for the cheapest places with built-in value. Free museums, public beaches, or scenic hikes make affordable vacations for couples without cutting the fun.
- Don’t underestimate the impact of small choices. Sharing meals, choosing one-night splurges, or picking one of the best cheap vacations from our list can help you enjoy more while spending less.
- Use Holafly eSIMs to avoid high roaming costs. Staying connected is important, especially when navigating new places. Holafly’s unlimited data plans help you stay online abroad — without paying extra for data roaming. If you plan on taking a long trip over the region, your best option is Holafly Connect that allows you to stay connected during your best cheap vacations in multiple countries.
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Plans that may interest you
With a background in English literature and a focus on storytelling, I’ve turned my interests in travel and technology into a career helping others stay connected abroad. Originally from Serbia, I work remotely with my husband, experiencing local cultures firsthand and bringing that perspective to my writing for Holafly. Fun fact: before focusing on content creation, I was a professional volleyball player.
