Cheap Romantic Getaways in Europe
8 practical tips for getting away on a budget
Stop missing out and get away more often!
Who said romance had to be expensive? Many people miss out on travelling because they think their budget is too tight and that “it simply isn’t worth it.” That is because they have yet to discover the art of budget-friendly romance 🙂—in other words, the art of finding cheap romantic getaways.
In our experience, a romantic weekend in France often costs more than a romantic getaway in another European city—provided you know how to find and seize opportunities and actively monitor prices to take advantage of the best deals. With train offers connecting different European countries and low-cost flights, this is something we have observed time and time again.
Travelling from Paris to Marseille by train, or even from Marseille to Lyon, often costs more than finding flights to a more exotic European destination.
Contrary to popular belief, a romantic weekend in Europe does not necessarily require an enormous budget. We all want to enjoy a little break as a couple, stay in a romantic bedroom or accommodation with a spa, sleep in a cabin or spend an unusual night in a country house—in short, spend time together, enjoy at least a little quality time away from everyday life, perhaps with a good bottle of wine.
Here are a few ideas for creating unforgettable memories without breaking the bank during a cheap romantic getaway somewhere in Europe that matches your idea of the perfect escape.
1. Travel light during your romantic getaway
A two-day romantic getaway does not require a cabin suitcase. If you are not used to travelling light, you may think that sounds a little crazy.
Of course, travelling with only a small backpack may be more difficult if you are coming to Europe from farther afield, such as the United States, Australia, New Zealand or elsewhere, particularly if this romantic getaway is part of a longer European trip. In that case, the aim is not necessarily to travel without a suitcase altogether, but to pack as lightly as your journey allows and avoid unnecessary baggage fees.
However, if you pack wisely and choose practical or crease-resistant clothes, you can fit everything you need into a backpack that slides beneath the seat in front of you on the plane. This allows you not only to avoid paying extra for cabin baggage but also to avoid overpacking and having to drag a suitcase around with you. As soon as you step off the plane, you will be ready to explore your new destination without wasting time or worrying about where to leave your cabin suitcase.
Même pendant les périodes plus froides de l’année cela est possible. Un pantalon noir que vous utiliserez aussi bien en journée pour visiter que le soir, un pull, un joli top pour le soir, deux t-shirts pour vous changer dessous, 2 slips, 2 paires de chaussettes, une crème hydratante, votre bb crème ou similaire, des lingettes démaquillantes, un rouge à lèvre, un crayon à yeux ou une petite palette de couleurs, du mascara, un chargeur. Tout ceci tient dans un sac à dos on vous assure et ce, quelque soit votre âge.
Au pire si vous pensez que vous n’y arriverez pas, prenez l’option d’une valise cabine pour deux. Ce n’est pas la même chose qu’être totalement libre en sac à dos mais c’est déjà des économies de réalisées que vous pouvez utiliser pour vous offrir un petit restaurant romantique !
This is possible even during the colder months of the year. Pack a pair of black trousers that you can wear both for sightseeing during the day and in the evening, a jumper, an attractive top for the evening, two T-shirts to change into, two pairs of underwear, two pairs of socks, moisturiser, BB cream or something similar, make-up remover wipes, lipstick, an eye pencil or a small eyeshadow palette, mascara and a charger. We promise that all of this will fit into a backpack, whatever your age.
If you really do not think you can manage it, choose the option of sharing one cabin suitcase between the two of you. It will not give you quite the same freedom as travelling with backpacks alone, but it will still save you money that you can spend on a lovely romantic restaurant!
2. Head to more affordable cities
Choosing destinations where the cost of living is lower can considerably reduce your travel budget while still allowing you to make the most of your stay.
Since the Covid-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine, it is true that some countries once known for being inexpensive have caught up with other European countries because of inflation.
Cities such as Budapest, Kraków and the capitals of the Baltic countries, including Riga and Tallinn, offer rich cultural experiences at far more affordable prices than some of Europe’s major capitals. By choosing these destinations, you can enjoy meals, accommodation and activities at highly competitive prices without sacrificing the quality of your experience.
2. Be flexible and take advantage of current offers
Rather than setting your heart on one particular destination, remain open to the opportunities offered by the deals available at the time. By being flexible, you can benefit from incredibly low transport fares and travel on a small budget. Special offers may, for example, allow you to fly to destinations such as Venice, Vienna or Prague for as little as €30 per person. This flexibility could lead you to discover unexpected and charming places that you might not initially have considered. Not only will you save money, but you will also have the chance to enjoy spontaneous and memorable adventures. Naturally, this option also depends on how flexible your employer is regarding the amount of notice required before your getaway.
3. Choose affordable yet charming accommodation
Luxury hotels can quickly send the bill soaring. Choose more affordable accommodation, such as hostels offering private double bedrooms—yes, in addition to dormitories, some hostels now provide private double bedrooms—or family-run guesthouses and locally managed holiday apartments. This will not only reduce your expenses but also offer you a more authentic experience.
The money saved on accommodation can then be spent on small local restaurants, a private guided tour or activities to enjoy as a couple.
Browse our selection of accommodation with a private hot tub or sauna in Europe according to your budget.
4. Treat yourselves to affordable local food
A romantic getaway does not necessarily mean eating at expensive or Michelin-starred restaurants. Everyone should plan according to their own budget without missing out. A delicious freshly made local sandwich or a good kebab enjoyed in an exceptional setting can be just as pleasurable!
For a more authentic experience, look for shops selling local produce, cured meats, cheeses and pickles, and prepare a little romantic picnic for two after choosing a charming, picturesque park in which to enjoy it.
If you would like to treat yourselves to a restaurant meal, avoid tourist traps and choose more affordable local restaurants.
Explore food markets, small bistros and street-food stalls to sample the local cuisine without spending a fortune. These are often the places where you will discover the most authentic flavours.
Finally, rent accommodation with a kitchen so that you can prepare homemade meals using local recipes and save money on restaurants. Browse our selection of romantic restaurants in Europe according to your budget.
5. Choose affordable transport
Train or coach tickets can sometimes be more affordable than flights, particularly when travelling a short distance. For example, if you live in one of the countries bordering Luxembourg—France, Belgium or Germany—travelling there by coach or train rather than by car may prove more economical.
Choose affordable transport options and enjoy the scenery on the way to your destination. Some travel passes may also offer discounts on local public transport. Make the most of these options whenever you can.
Luxembourg, a country that many people imagine to be extremely expensive, made public transport free throughout the country in 2020, including buses, trams and trains.
Low-cost airlines often offer highly affordable fares to numerous destinations, provided you remain flexible about where you go. It is still possible to find return flights to Venice for €30, or flights to Split and Santiago de Compostela for €25.
6. Look for free or inexpensive activities
Every European city is full of free or inexpensive activities to enjoy once you arrive.
Explore parks, historic squares and museums offering free admission, either throughout the year or on certain days, such as the first Sunday of every month. Planning your romantic getaway to coincide with the first weekend of the month can often help you make considerable savings and visit more places for free.
Join affordable guided tours or free walking tours, where you can choose how much you would like to tip. These activities provide an opportunity to immerse yourselves in the local culture without emptying your wallets. However, they do not offer the romantic and intimate experience of a private guided tour.
7. Enjoy a romantic escape in nature
Europe is filled with magnificent natural landscapes. Consider planning a romantic escape surrounded by nature.
From hikes through Luxembourg’s rolling countryside and Sardinia’s national parks to the peaceful beaches of Čiovo opposite Trogir during the low season, nature often provides an idyllic backdrop for a romantic getaway.
8. Look for special offers and discounts
Before booking your romantic getaway, explore the special offers and discounts available online. Many websites provide discounted weekend packages, deals on local activities or even reductions on meals at selected restaurants when you purchase a city pass. Keep an eye out for the best deals to make the most of your budget.
In conclusion, a romantic getaway in Europe can be affordable, memorable and romantic. Choose less touristy destinations, stay in locally run accommodation and explore the hidden charms of each city.
Enjoying getaways on a modest budget is entirely possible, although it requires more time and effort to research your options thoroughly.
With a little careful advance planning, you can create romantic memories without draining your bank account. So, get ready to enjoy more romantic getaways by following these tips 🙂. And if you do not have time to plan everything yourself, entrust your travel plans to us. The service will pay for itself through the great-value deals we find to help you save money.