5 Top Vacations for Couples on a Budget

Focus on free (or close to free) activities and consider cashing in some points to save on your couples' vacation.

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According to NerdWallet’s 2024 Summer Travel Report, Americans who plan to travel this summer expect to spend $3,594, on average, on airfare or hotel expenses on their vacations. If you and your partner want to get away on a budget, you'll need to choose your destination wisely.

Fortunately, there are many cheap romantic getaways that can help you cut costs without sacrificing romance and quality experiences. Here are five vacation ideas for couples to spark your wanderlust.

1. New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans offers a vibrant culture, nightlife and historical sites for visiting couples on a budget. Once you’ve settled in upon arrival, start your visit with beignets at the iconic Cafe Du Monde. This deep-fried pastry is generously smothered in powdered sugar, and one order includes three pieces for $3.85.

From there, take a leisurely stroll through the French Market, and ride a street car for only $1.25 per person to take you to your next activity.

During New Orleans’ peak season of February through May, you can still find many hotels in the French Quarter, the city's oldest and most historic neighborhood, at less than $150 per night.

Other affordable things to do: Catch a live street performance of jazz music on Frenchmen Street, see the architecture of the St. Louis Cathedral for free or take a self-guided walking tour of the Garden District.

2. Portland, Oregon

Outdoorsy couples will love the abundant greenery, trails and waterfalls that Portland, Oregon, has to offer. For instance, Forest Park — located within city limits — overlooks the Willamette River and is home to more than 80 miles of lush trails.

Couples who prefer staying on pavement also can appreciate the city’s unique sights. Visit the International Rose Test Garden which has more than 610 rose varieties, or thumb through books at Powell’s City of Books, the largest independent new and used bookstore in the world.

Hotel accommodations in Portland at the start of the peak season in late June are below $150 per night. For the most frugal couples, there are also plenty of private and intimate Airbnb options for under $100 per night.

Other affordable things to do: Visit Hoyt Arboretum, go biking along the Willamette River or go food truck hopping for affordable bites.

3. Key West, Florida

It’s no surprise that summertime is a popular period of the year to soak in the tropical vibes and coastline of Key West, Florida, with your significant other. You can have a relaxing picnic on the sand for two and then go snorkeling at Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park.

When you’re back on land, wander through the historic Old Town together and consider visiting the unique Key West Shipwreck Museum, which starts from $17.99 per person.

Like many beach destinations during peak season, hotel stays can be pricey. However, some Key West accommodations, like the Hilton Garden Inn Key West Hotel, offer summer rates under $200 per night.

🤓Nerdy Tip

Several co-branded Hilton credit cards are available, including one without an annual fee, and offer perks like automatic elite status in the Hilton Honors program.

Other affordable things to do: Watch a pink sunset at Mallory Square (a waterfront plaza), visit the Ernest Hemingway House Museum or take a commemorative photo at the Southernmost Point of the Continental U.S.A. buoy.

4. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada

If the idea of staying in a cozy cabin or lodge is more your pace, some of the best cheap romantic getaways can be found in the towns surrounding Lake Tahoe, which sits across the California and Nevada state lines. You’ll enjoy scenic views of the Sierra Nevada mountains and the lake’s crystal waters.

Riding the Heavenly Gondola offers breathtaking 360-degree views, if you’re willing to budget $75 per person for a round-trip ticket. If you would rather be in nature than above it, plan a picnic or take a guided tour at Emerald Bay State Park.

For an ethereal and minimalist experience, spend a night stargazing together to end your day with tranquility.

Wherever you're looking for hotels around the lake, you can typically find accommodations under $150 per night.

Other affordable things to do: Hike Eagle Falls Trails, which ends at a waterfall, sunbathe and swim at Zephyr Cove, or visit Truckee Thursdays Summer Street Festival.

5. Albuquerque, New Mexico

If you’re planning a cheap vacation for couples in the fall, Albuquerque, New Mexico, can be a romantic destination. During the first full week of October, hundreds of hot air balloons take flight for the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta.

A hot air balloon ride can be costly (about $275 per person), but general admission tickets are just $15 per person, per session, which is typically half-day access on any day of the Fiesta.

You’ll find many hotels and other accommodations that are reasonably priced at less than $150 per night during the event.

Other affordable things to do: Walk through the shops and art galleries in the city's Old Town neighborhood, birdwatch at the Rio Grande Nature Center State Park or learn about local cultures at the National Hispanic Cultural Center.

Cards for couples' travel

If you want to make your getaway even more affordable, consider opening one of these travel cards and earning the welcome bonus:

Popular travel cards
The Platinum Card® from American Express
The Platinum Card® from American Express
NerdWallet Rating
Apply now

on American Express' website

Rates & Fees
Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
NerdWallet Rating
Chase Sapphire Preferred Credit Card
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
NerdWallet Rating
Apply now

on Chase's website

Citibank Strata Premier Card
Citi Strata Premier℠ Card
NerdWallet Rating
Apply now

on Citibank's application

Rates & Fees
Annual fee

$695.

$95.

$95.

$95.

Welcome offer

Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Terms Apply.

Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.

Get up to $1,050 in Chase Travel℠ value. Earn 60,000 bonus points after $4,000 in purchases in your first 3 months from account opening. That’s worth $750 when redeemed through Chase Travel. Plus, get up to $300 in statement credits on Chase Travel purchases within your first year.

Earn 70,000 bonus ThankYou® Points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months of account opening, redeemable for $700 in gift cards or travel rewards at thankyou.com

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Affordable vacations for couples are within reach

With travelers feeling the pinch of inflation for day-to-day goods, planning ahead for a romantic but affordable vacation is that much more essential. Whether you and your partner are looking to relax and unplug, or seek out new experiences and adventure together, one of the destinations above is likely a fit.

It's more than possible to enjoy a trip for two while also saving money with these inexpensive vacation ideas. Next, learn how couples can maximize travel rewards.

To view rates and fees of The Platinum Card® from American Express, see this page.


How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are some of the best travel credit cards of 2024:

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