Planning a destination wedding doesn’t have to mean draining your life savings. There are plenty of breathtaking locations around the world where you can celebrate your love without going over budget. The trick is to choose a spot that offers both affordability and unforgettable scenery, so you get the best of both worlds. From sunny beaches to charming historic towns, here are some of the best places to consider for a destination wedding that won’t break the bank.

1. Tulum, Mexico

Why It’s Perfect:

Tulum offers couples the ultimate combination of stunning Caribbean beaches, laid-back vibes, and cost-effective options. Known for its turquoise waters and bohemian atmosphere, Tulum is home to affordable boutique hotels, eco-friendly resorts, and stunning beachfront venues.

Cost-Saving Tips:

  • Stay Outside the High Tourist Seasons: Opt for dates between May and October to take advantage of lower rates.
  • Consider Local Vendors: Many local planners and caterers in Tulum offer affordable packages that include everything from catering to decor.

Bonus:

Your guests can enjoy a mini-vacation filled with snorkeling, exploring nearby cenotes, and touring ancient Mayan ruins.

Things to Consider:

Keep in mind that Tulum’s popularity has led to some crowds in peak months. If you’re looking for seclusion, scout venues away from central areas.

2. Santorini, Greece

Why It’s Perfect:

Santorini’s iconic whitewashed buildings, stunning sunsets over the caldera, and romantic ambiance make it a dreamy wedding destination. Despite its luxe reputation, you can pull off a Greek island wedding on a budget by choosing smaller venues and working with local vendors.

Cost-Saving Tips:

  • Select a Smaller Village: Instead of booking a venue in tourist-heavy Oia, opt for picturesque villages like Imerovigli or Pyrgos for more affordable options.
  • Bundle Services: Many Greek venues include packages with catering, photography, and decor at a lower cost than if purchased individually.

Bonus:

Guests can combine your wedding with a Mediterranean vacation, enjoying authentic Greek cuisine and postcard-perfect views.

Things to Consider:

Flights to Santorini can be expensive depending on your location. Booking well in advance or advising guests to use budget airlines can ease costs.

3. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Why It’s Perfect:

If your dream wedding includes pristine beaches and endless palm trees, Punta Cana delivers—and at a fraction of the cost of more exclusive tropical destinations. With its all-inclusive resorts, you’ll find tons of options for hosting a wedding that includes both ceremony and accommodations for you and your guests.

Cost-Saving Tips:

  • Look for All-Inclusive Wedding Packages: Many resorts in the Dominican Republic offer deals that cover everything from the ceremony site to catering and bridal suite.
  • Cap Your Guest List: Narrowing down the number of attendees makes destination weddings more affordable for everyone.

Bonus:

All-inclusive resorts often come with perks, like discounted spa treatments or complimentary honeymoon upgrades.

Things to Consider:

While hurricanes are rare, Punta Cana’s hurricane season runs from June to November. Consider the weather when picking your date.

4. Lake Como, Italy

Why It’s Perfect:

Lake Como combines romance, elegance, and timeless scenery. Though often associated with celebrity weddings, it holds plenty of budget-friendly options if you skip the grand villas in favor of charming local spots.

Cost-Saving Tips:

  • Time It Right: Late spring and early fall offer pleasant weather without the high-season prices.
  • Choose Smaller Towns: Shift the spotlight from Bellagio to less tourist-heavy villages like Varenna or Menaggio.

Bonus:

The area’s natural beauty reduces the need for expensive decor. Plus, your wedding reception can feature authentic Italian cuisine that won’t cost a fortune.

Things to Consider:

Destination weddings in Italy may require navigating language barriers. Hiring a bilingual planner can simplify communication with local vendors.

5. New Orleans, Louisiana

Why It’s Perfect:

For couples wanting a unique destination wedding without crossing borders, New Orleans provides charm, culture, and festive vibes all on a budget. Known for its jazz music, historic French Quarter, and rich traditions, this city offers many affordable venues, from courtyards to quaint chapels.

Cost-Saving Tips:

  • Go Off-Season: Hosting a wedding outside of Mardi Gras or major festivals helps save on both venue and accommodation costs.
  • DIY Entertainment: With street performers and jazz music filling the city, you could skip expensive entertainment without sacrificing ambiance.

Bonus:

Your guests will love savoring the city’s Creole cuisine, beignets, and vibrant nightlife.

Things to Consider:

Traveling to New Orleans is relatively easy for most U.S.-based guests, but ensure you book accommodations early during festival seasons to avoid price hikes.

6. Bali, Indonesia

Why It’s Perfect:

Exotic yet cost-effective, Bali is a top contender for couples looking to blend tropical beauty with spiritual vibes. With lush landscapes, golden beaches, and tranquil temples, Bali offers plenty of exquisite venues to host intimate ceremonies or grand celebrations.

Cost-Saving Tips:

  • Stay Away from Tourist Hotspots: Areas like Ubud or smaller islands around Bali can provide authentic beauty at a lower price than the popular Seminyak or Kuta beaches.
  • Local Deals: Work with local wedding planners and florists who can utilize Bali’s abundant natural resources for decorations and floral arrangements.

Bonus:

Bali’s affordability makes it easy to extend your stay and turn your wedding into a built-in honeymoon.

Things to Consider:

Travel can be lengthy and pricey for some guests, so be mindful of their budgets when planning.

7. Charleston, South Carolina

Why It’s Perfect:

Southern hospitality, historic architecture, and beautiful landscapes make Charleston an elegant yet affordable wedding destination. Plus, it’s brimming with cozy inns, plantation houses, and scenic waterfront spots.

Cost-Saving Tips:

  • Book venues outside the popular downtown area for a budget-friendly twist with the same Southern charm.
  • Host a brunch wedding to skip the expense of a full plated dinner while still offering a delightful experience for guests.

Bonus:

Charleston offers countless free or low-cost photo opportunities in its cobblestone streets and moss-covered gardens.

Things to Consider:

Weather in Charleston can be unpredictable, so have a rain contingency plan in place for outdoor celebrations.

8. Portugal

Why It’s Perfect:

From picturesque wineries in the Douro Valley to colorful streets in Lisbon, Portugal is a rising star for budget-conscious destination weddings. It offers European charm without the steep prices of neighboring countries like France or Spain.

Cost-Saving Tips:

  • Consider renting an estate or vineyard for a weekend wedding, which can double as accommodations for close guests.
  • Go rustic-chic with locally sourced food, wine, and minimal decor, leveraging Portugal’s natural beauty.

Bonus:

Portugal’s affordability means you can budget for extras, like excursions or special thank-you gifts for guests.

Things to Consider:

Portugal has a Mediterranean climate, so avoid rainy months (typically November through March) for outdoor events.

Your dream destination wedding doesn’t have to come with a sky-high price tag. Whether you’re drawn to tropical beaches, charming European streets, or romantic lakeside villages, there are countless options where your budget can stretch further than you expect. With careful planning, some savvy cost-cutting techniques, and an open mind about the location, you can create a magical wedding experience without financial stress.

No matter the destination you choose, remember that the true essence of your day lies in celebrating your love surrounded by the people who matter most. These beautiful, budget-friendly spots are just the start of making your dream wedding come true.