A honeymoon doesn't have to mean an all-inclusive luxury resort. Several domestic destinations offer a romantic setting, great food, and memorable outings for a much more affordable cost.
The trick is choosing destinations with a good balance between romantic atmosphere and price, plus taking advantage of the date flexibility newlyweds often have to avoid peak season.
Ranking
Destinations with a great balance of romance and cost
- 01
Ilha Grande, RJ
With no cars around and surrounded by trails and beaches, the island has an intimate vibe without the prices of trendy spots along the Rio de Janeiro coast.
- 02
Alter do Chão, PA
Freshwater beaches in the Amazon offer unique scenery at a much lower cost than traditional beach destinations.
- 03
São Miguel dos Milagres, AL
A quieter stretch of coastline than Maceió, with charming inns and fewer tourists.
- 04
Monte Verde, MG
Mountain weather, chalet-style architecture, and great food make this town a romantic option away from the coastal circuit.
- 05
Jericoacoara, CE
Sunsets over the dunes, buggy tours, and a good range of small inns make this destination romantic without luxury resort prices.
Savings
How to save without losing the honeymoon mood
- 1
Travel right after peak season
The days following holidays and peak season usually have lower lodging prices, while the destination still has everything up and running.
- 2
Choose smaller, charming inns
They often offer a more intimate feel than big hotel chains, at a lower nightly rate.
- 3
Save one special activity instead of splurging every day
Choosing a single special dinner or outing, instead of trying to keep a luxury standard the whole trip, helps balance the budget.
- 4
Take advantage of free activities
Sunsets, trails, and beaches cost nothing and are often among the most memorable moments of any honeymoon.
Planning
Planning the trip in advance
“The most romantic thing we did on our honeymoon cost nothing: sitting on the sand to watch the sun set on the last day of the trip.”
Ana Ribeiro
Travel writer
Flights
When booking your flight
Since many couples have some date flexibility right after the wedding, it's worth comparing different travel windows on Viajante Promo's search engine before settling on a destination — small date changes can make a big difference in the final ticket price.
Common questions
Frequently asked questions
Does a honeymoon have to be at an all-inclusive resort?
No. Many couples prefer more intimate destinations, with smaller inns and varied outings, and still have a romantic experience.
Which of these destinations is best for total peace and quiet?
Ilha Grande and São Miguel dos Milagres tend to be the quietest options on the list, with fewer tourists around.
Is it worth traveling right after the wedding?
Yes, especially if the wedding happened outside peak season — that way you can enjoy lower prices on the honeymoon too.
Does Alter do Chão have tourist infrastructure?
Yes, the region regularly receives tourists and has lodging options and organized tours, although it's a more alternative destination than traditional beaches.
How do I balance romance and savings in the itinerary?
Save one or two special activities and spend the rest of the time on free outings, like beaches, trails, and sunsets.
Who wrote this
Who wrote this
Ana Ribeiro
Writes about coastal destinations in Brazil and loves helping people who think a place is out of their budget find a way to get there.