If you’ve grown up on a diet of Yash Chopra movies, you’re thinking Europe for your honeymoon, right? But you know a destination like that can sometimes overshoot your budget. But that doesn’t mean you scrape off your European dreams and pop them off in the dustbin. Absolutely not! With a little advance planning and our help, you can definitely romance in the hills and sing atop the centuries old palaces with your beau in tow! Still don’t believe us? Well, here’s a list of 7 affordable European destinations you can visit. Read on to find out…
1. Cotswolds, United Kingdom
Now before you raise your eyebrows and think of us as a maniac, we suggest you just read ahead. Sure, UK is known to be one of the most expensive countries in the world, but there are some places that surely won’t bust your budget. Imagine witnessing that perfect countryside sunset amidst green pastures with your beau in tow. There are some amazing castles, palaces, inland beaches and the liveliest towns that don’t require a fat wallet. The price of accommodation also falls considerably if you book a hotel during the off months starting from September to April. Also, don’t forget to take a romantic walk with your hubby in the twin villages of upper and lower Slaughter. It has some of the most amazing rose clad cottages that look even better than a desktop wallpaper!
Off Season: September- April
How To Get There: Major flights fly from Mumbai and Delhi fly to Bristol International Airport. Once there, you could take a bus from the airport which is much cheaper than hiring a private cab.
Where To Stay: Live in the beautiful loft surrounded by green pastures priced at Rs 6,551 approx.
It can get terribly cold in the UK, thanks to the erratic weather! Make sure you wear a sturdy Parka Jacket like this available on Jabong for Rs 3,196.
2. Corfu (Kérkyra), Greece
The falling of Greek economy did result in making Greece one of the most affordable European hotspots ever. But if you want to steer clear from the ‘same old’ whitewashed walls and blue surroundings then Corfu would be a great option. It is an island retreat, perfect for newlyweds to spend some quality time together. Flanked by the Ionian sea and regarded as the second largest Ionian island, it is a perfect amalgamation of idyllic beaches and sun swept villages for you to enjoy. If you are looking for some lip smacking meals and even better sunsets, then Corfu would be ideal. Steal a kiss in Kanoni, one of the most photographed spots in Corfu! It is a circular terrace that offers breathtaking views across the island of Pontikoníssi.
Off Season: November- April
How To Get There: You can get connecting flights from Mumbai, Chennai, Bangalore and Delhi. Once at Athens International Airport, you could book a flight to Corfu for as less as Rs 6,000!
Where To Stay: Kostas Beach Apartment is a cozy little place situated right next to the beach and is priced at Rs 2,900! Do we say more?
3. Porec, Croatia
If Croatia has forever been on your travel bucket list, then now is the time to tick it off! Porec could definitely qualify for an offbeat honeymoon paradise, replete with gothic mansions, Patrician palaces and beautiful beaches. We suggest you chose Porec over Dubrovnik, Hvar and Split not because it is less touristy, but because it is seeped back in time and would be a great place to explore, especially if you are piqued about its ancient old history and culture, and of course, Damjanic wines! The place is well known for watersports and do take the Limski Kanal tour with hubby dearest to be mesmerized by the magic of nature!
Off Season: November- April
How To Get There: Major flights from Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata Bangalore and Hyderabad fly to Zagreb International Airport. You could hire a taxi service, which is approximately a three hour drive to Porec.
Where To Stay: Live in a beautiful guest house like this one. It is only for Rs 2,500 per night!
Stay warm yet protected in this ankle high velvet boots available on Koovs for Rs 1,999.
4. Budapest, Hungary
Beer for less than Rs 200 and a full breakfast for less than 500 bucks? Yes, we are still talking about Budapest in Hungary. With a beautiful river that runs through the city, every corner is like a beautiful work of art. If you are wishing for Paris but want to go for a slightly affordable and equally beautiful location, then Budapest would be an ideal choice. Whether it is a romantic walk by the Danube river or a touristy sighting of the Castle Hill, it won’t break the bank, we promise!
Off Season: November- April
How To Get There: There are flights available from Mumbai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Kolkata and Bangalore to Budapest. Budapest is a very travel friendly country, and you can easily opt for the bus service or even book a cab to your hotel.
Where To Stay: Regnum Residence is a pretty hotel for a quiet stay next to the city hotspots at Rs 4,748.
5. Porto, Portugal
Located in the northern part of Portugal, Porto is like a hidden jewel that is slowly gaining prominence as a tourist destination. From beautifully stacked coloured buildings to being ever so famous for its ‘liquid gold’ namely, the port wine… Porto is definitely the place to be. If you plan to visit its famous museums and other services, we advise you go on a Sunday, as most of them offer free admissions. As for the wine and food…world famous port wine and freshly cooked fish under Rs 400? YES!
Off Season: October-April
How To Get There: Major flights fly from Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru and Chennai to Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport.
Where To Stay: Stay at a swanky Eurostars Das Artes hotel with a price point that doesn’t hurt your budget. We swear, nightly rates start from Rs 4,809.
Look stylish yet chic in this all-black turtleneck dress available on Tomtop for Rs 760.
6. Bucharest, Romania
Bucharest is the largest city of Romania and is considered the economic and cultural hub. It was famously called the ‘Little Paris Of The East’ but has now got an identity of its own. This is the city best enjoyed through a walk, as it is flanked by architecturally rich churches and enormous open parks. Don’t forget to visit the lush Cismigiu Gardens, you both will love it!
Off Season: March- August
How To Get There: Flights are available from Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata and Hyderabad to Henri Coandă International Airport.
Where To Stay: Book this Airbnb apartment for only Rs 3,075 per night! Perfect!
7. Marmaris, Turkey
Forget Cappadocia and Antalya, Marmaris is the place that will awe you with its natural beauty. On the shoreline of Turkish Riviera, Marmaris boasts an all round warm and cozy mediterranean climate that is perfect for Indian’s visiting the city for their honeymoon. From islands, museums, waterparks and great food… You’ll both surely be spoiled for choice.
Off Season: April- August
How To Get There: You can hop to a flight from Mumbai, Delhi, Hyderabad and Kolkata to Dalaman Airport. Once there, you can easily avail a cab or even a bus service to your hotel.
Where To Stay: Stay in this colourful Antique Airbnb apartment for a mere Rs 5,281 per night. What a steal!
This is such a beautiful dress to wear on a brunch date with hubby to those pretty sidewalk cafes. Get it on Jabong for Rs 1,340.
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