If you’re looking for an affordable European honeymoon destination, heading to Rome, Paris or London is probably not going to give you what you’re looking for, but there are some wonderful and unique places to spend your honeymoon that won’t cost you an arm and a leg.
Crete
Crete offers a diverse landscape with gorgeous sandy beaches and inviting azure water, towering mountains and even ancient ruins. Whether you’re looking to relax and soak in the scenery or enjoy the hustle and bustle of the city, here you can experience both – and at a fraction of the price of some of the more popular European destinations.
The streets are lined with spectacular architecture that mirrors the styles of the Minoans, the Venetians, the ottomans and even the contemporary Greeks, and one of Crete’s top ranked hotels, the Renieris, offers rooms that start at just $32 a night. Guests of the hotel get five-star treatment as well as luxurious rooms and Kato Stalos beach just steps away from your door.
It’s easy to find dining bargains too with the many tavernas in Crete offering traditional Greek favorites for the fraction of the cost of upscale establishments. Meals are typically composed of fresh meat or fish, locally grown produce and wine, and of course, feta cheese. Crete is also famed for its olive oil which is a staple ingredient in most dishes.
Prague
Prague is the magnificent capital of the Czech Republic, steeped in history and filled with cobbled lanes and walled courtyards that exude romance and tempt visitors to wander aimlessly while discovering treasures around every corner.
Honeymooners can visit historic Prague Castle, one of the largest fortresses in the world, at no charge. Stroll through magnificent gardens as well as St. Vitus Cathedral, the Royal Palace, St. George’s Basilica, the Powder Tower and Golden Lane.
A stay at the family- run B & B, Residence Na Vinohradu, starts at just $53 a night. Here you’ll find a warm and friendly welcome, comfortable rooms and a setting in a safe Czech neighborhood just minutes from the heart of downtown Prague.
You’ll save on dining with a complimentary hearty breakfast served in the morning, while evening meals are inexpensive, especially at the local pubs. Many serve a typical meal consisting of pork, cabbage and dumplings, served with a refreshing and finely brewed pilsner.
Valencia
Valencia is located on Spain’s eastern Mediterranean coast on the Gulf of Valencia at the mouth of the Turia River. This beautiful coastal city is easy on the eyes and the pocketbook with a stunning old town center filled with gorgeous historic buildings, gardens, museums and cobblestone streets.
Shimmering golden sands and the dazzling cobalt sea invite visitors to relax on the beaches doing nothing at all, adventuring on a romantic sailboat ride or spend some time romping in the waves.
Stay at the romantic award-winning B & B, Villa Casablanca, for just $65 a night. You’ll find it nestled in the countryside, offering the ultimate in peace and tranquility but just 20 minutes from the city.
Food choices are just as heavenly as the location itself. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample the juicy fruit Valencia is known for. The city is also the birthplace of one of Spain’s most popular dishes, paella – a mixture of rice, seafood, meat and vegetables flavored with saffron. Enjoy one of the many tapas bars offering delicious Spanish cuisine for just a few euros.
Related Europe posts:
Experience Sun, Sand, and Culture in Crete, Greece
Prague offers a rich history and a plethora of landmarks
Romance, Culture, and Vibrancy in Valencia, Spain