Cheap Places to Go for Couples ($50 a Day Budget)

Introduction

Think traveling as a couple on under $50 a day means sacrificing romance or fun? Think again. But also—don’t believe everything you see on Instagram.

There’s no shortage of travel blogs and influencers claiming that there are plenty of cheap places to go for couples where you can live like royalty on a budget. “$10-a-night beach bungalows!” “$1 street food!” “Luxury for less!” But the reality? Many of these so-called budget-friendly destinations have quietly become tourist money traps, with hidden costs, inflated prices in popular areas, and overpriced experiences disguised as “must-do” activities.

In this no-nonsense guide, we’re breaking down the truth about cheap places to go for couples and what it really takes to travel on $50 a day as a pair. No sugarcoating, no marketing fluff—just real numbers, firsthand experiences, and a brutally honest look at what’s actually worth your money.

Here’s what you’ll find in this guide:

• What $50 a day actually gets you in different destinations, from food and accommodation to transport and entrance fees.
• Which experiences are overrated and overpriced—because not everything hyped online is worth it.
• Smart ways to save money that go beyond the usual “eat local” advice.
• A final verdict on each country’s affordability—does it really live up to the reputation of being one of the best cheap places to go for couples?

Read also: Cheap Places to Go in the Middle East for History, Culture, and Adventure

Thailand – Budget Paradise with Pricey Pitfalls

Thailand has long been considered one of the best cheap places to go for couples, with its picture-perfect beaches, vibrant street markets, and legendary affordability. But does it really live up to the hype for couples traveling on $50 a day? The answer depends entirely on how and where you travel. While Thailand is still one of the best budget-friendly destinations in the world, many of its most famous spots have become tourist money pits, with overpriced islands, hidden fees, and sneaky tourist traps that can quickly drain your wallet.

Here’s what it actually costs to travel as a couple in Thailand—and how to do it without overspending.

How Far Does $50 a Day Go?

For couples who stick to the right places, Thailand can still be one of the best cheap places to go for couples on a tight budget. Here’s a breakdown of daily costs:

• Accommodation: Hostel dorm beds cost around $10 per person, while a simple private room in a budget guesthouse runs about $20–$25 per night. That’s about $10–$12.50 each. In smaller cities or less touristy islands, you can find rooms for even less.
• Food: Thailand’s legendary street food is where you save big. A plate of pad Thai or curry costs just $1–$3, meaning two people can eat a full meal for under $6. Local markets and food courts also offer cheap meals, but sit-down tourist restaurants charge 3–5 times more.
• Transport: Local buses cost as little as $0.50, and even long-distance night trains can be under $30 for a sleeper berth. Tuk-tuks, however, are a different story—unless you’re good at haggling, expect to pay inflated “tourist prices.” Grab (Thailand’s version of Uber) is often cheaper.
• Activities: Many temples are free or have a $2–$3 donation fee, so sightseeing doesn’t have to blow your budget. National parks, diving, and boat tours are where things add up—some excursions cost upwards of $50 per person.

Estimated daily budget: Around $50 per couple is possible if you stay in budget accommodations, eat street food, and avoid overpriced activities. But slip into tourist hotspots like Phuket or Koh Phi Phi, and your costs will skyrocket.

What’s Not Worth Your Money

Not all of Thailand’s most famous spots are worth visiting if you’re on a budget. Some of the most overrated experiences include:

• Phuket and Koh Phi Phi: These islands are famous, but they’re also among the most expensive places in Thailand. Expect to pay double for everything—from street food to basic accommodation—compared to places like Chiang Mai or Koh Lanta. A “budget” beach bungalow on Koh Phi Phi can easily cost $50+ a night, while the same quality room elsewhere in Thailand is half the price.
• Tuk-tuk scams in Bangkok: A common scam is the “Grand Palace is closed” trick, where a friendly tuk-tuk driver insists a major attraction is shut for the day and offers to take you on a “special tour” instead. This tour conveniently includes stops at gem stores, tailor shops, and overpriced souvenir stands where they get a commission.
• Full-moon parties: If you’re traveling on a budget, Koh Phangan’s famous full-moon parties are a major money trap. Accommodation prices double during the event, and drinks are overpriced. It’s fun if you’re looking for a party, but not ideal if you’re focused on budget travel.

What’s Actually Worth Your Money

If you’re looking for cheap places to go for couples in Thailand that still feel romantic and adventurous without breaking the bank, these experiences offer the best value:

• Chiang Mai and Northern Thailand: The northern region is significantly cheaper than the islands. Chiang Mai’s night markets have some of the best (and cheapest) food in Thailand, and guesthouses cost as little as $15 per night. Doi Suthep temple, a must-visit, costs just a few dollars in transport and donation fees.
• Koh Lanta and Koh Chang: If you’re looking for a budget-friendly beach destination without the tourist markup, these islands are much more affordable than Phuket or Koh Phi Phi. They offer the same stunning beaches, just with lower prices and fewer crowds.
• Self-guided temple visits: While many travelers book expensive guided temple tours, visiting temples independently is easy and far cheaper. Major sites like Ayutthaya or Sukhothai are accessible by public transport, and renting a bike for $3–$5 allows you to explore at your own pace.

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Vietnam – The Backpacker’s Budget Dream

Vietnam has a reputation for being one of the absolute best cheap places to go for couples, and in many ways, it lives up to the hype. With $1 banh mi sandwiches, $5 hostel rooms, and $10 private guesthouses, it’s one of the cheapest destinations in the world for travelers. But that doesn’t mean it’s without its downsides. While everyday expenses are ridiculously low, Vietnam has its fair share of sneaky tourist traps, overhyped attractions, and scams that can quietly chip away at your budget.

So, is Vietnam really one of the best cheap places to go for couples? Here’s the reality behind the prices, the rip-offs, and the best experiences that won’t break the bank.

What $50 a Day Gets You in Vietnam

If you’re looking for an affordable but adventurous destination, Vietnam is hard to beat. Here’s a realistic breakdown of daily expenses for two people traveling on a budget:

• Accommodation: Hostel dorm beds cost around $5–$10 per person, but a private guesthouse room for two is often just $15–$20. In some areas, budget hotels with air conditioning and breakfast included cost as little as $25 per night.
• Food: Vietnam is a street food paradise. A steaming bowl of pho costs $1–$2, a banh mi sandwich is under $1, and a full meal for two at a local eatery rarely exceeds $5–$7. If you stick to street stalls and local markets, food costs are incredibly low.
• Transport: City buses cost under $0.50, and long-distance trains or buses are equally cheap. For example, an open-tour bus from Hanoi to Hue costs around $5–$10 per person. Grab (Vietnam’s version of Uber) is an affordable alternative to taxis. Renting a motorbike costs around $6 per day, allowing for cheap DIY exploration.
• Activities: Many of Vietnam’s best experiences—like exploring Hanoi’s Old Quarter or wandering through Hoi An—are free. Entrance fees to temples and historic sites are generally under $3, but some excursions (like Ha Long Bay cruises) can be expensive.

Estimated daily budget: A couple can comfortably travel Vietnam on $50 a day—provided they avoid overpriced tours and tourist-focused restaurants.

What’s Not Worth the Money

While Vietnam is one of the best cheap places to go for couples, not everything is a great deal. Some of the most overhyped experiences include:

• Ha Long Bay budget cruises: Ha Long Bay is stunning, but many of the cheap cruises ($50–$100 per person) feel like a tourist conveyor belt—crowded, rushed, and full of hidden fees for drinks and “optional” activities. A better (and cheaper) alternative is to visit nearby Cát Bà Island and arrange a boat tour from there for nearly half the price.
• Western-style cafés in Hanoi: While Vietnam is famous for its coffee culture, some trendy cafés target tourists with $15 avocado toast and $5 lattes—ridiculous when a bowl of pho costs $1. If you want great coffee, stick to traditional Vietnamese cafés where a cup of ca phe sua da (iced coffee with condensed milk) is usually under $1.
• Taxi scams: Unlicensed taxis often refuse to use the meter and charge foreign tourists triple the normal fare. If you don’t use Grab or insist on the meter, a simple ride can end up costing as much as your daily food budget.

Best Experiences for Budget Travelers

Despite a few overpriced attractions, Vietnam remains one of the best cheap places to go for couples who love adventure, culture, and incredible food. Here’s what’s actually worth your money:

• Street food and night markets: Eating in Vietnam is an experience in itself. Wandering through Hanoi’s Old Quarter, trying fresh spring rolls, sizzling pancakes (banh xeo), and $0.50 bia hoi (fresh beer) is a highlight of any trip—and insanely cheap.
• Motorbike road trips: Renting a motorbike for $6 a day lets you explore rice terraces, waterfalls, and remote villages on your own schedule. The Hai Van Pass, a scenic coastal road between Da Nang and Hue, is one of the most stunning drives in Southeast Asia and is completely free to explore.
• Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park: Often overlooked, this park is home to massive caves and jungle treks. A boat ride into Phong Nha Cave costs around $10—a fraction of the cost of Ha Long Bay, but just as awe-inspiring.
• Train journeys: Vietnam’s Reunification Express runs the length of the country and offers some of the most scenic train rides in the world for just a few dollars. A train from Da Nang to Hue, passing through lush mountains and coastline, costs as little as $4.

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India – Incredible Value or Intense Hassle?

India has long been known as one of the ultimate cheap places to go for couples, where a budget of $50 a day can stretch further than almost anywhere else. With meals costing less than $2, private guesthouses for under $25, and long-distance trains that take you across the country for just a few dollars, India offers insane value for money. But here’s the catch—traveling here isn’t always easy. The chaotic streets, relentless touts, and occasional scams can make India feel overwhelming, especially for first-time visitors.

For couples looking for adventure, cultural immersion, and ridiculously low prices, India can be an unbeatable destination—if you know how to navigate its challenges.

How Cheap is India for Couples?

India is easily one of the cheapest places in the world to travel, and if you’re smart about your spending, $50 a day is more than enough for two people. Here’s what you can expect to pay:

• Accommodation: Budget guesthouses and homestays cost between $15–$25 per night for a private room, often including breakfast. In smaller towns, prices can be even lower.
• Food: A full meal at a local eatery costs as little as $1–$3 per person. A traditional thali (rice, bread, vegetables, and curry) is often just $2–$4 and is endlessly refillable. Street snacks like samosas or dosas cost under $1.
• Transport: India’s train network is one of the cheapest in the world. A six-hour journey in second-class costs just a few dollars, and even sleeper trains are affordable ($5–$10 for mid-range comfort). Auto-rickshaws and local buses are usually under $1 for short trips—just be prepared to negotiate.
• Activities: Many of India’s best experiences—temples, markets, and historic streets—are free. Major sights like the Taj Mahal ($18 entry) or Jaipur’s palaces ($5–$10) are affordable compared to attractions in other countries.

Estimated daily budget: A couple can easily live well on $50 a day, especially outside the big cities. If you splurge on a few comforts, you might spend closer to $60, but India remains one of the best cheap places to go for couples on a tight budget.

What’s Not Worth the Money

Not everything in India is as magical as the guidebooks suggest. Some experiences end up being more frustrating than enjoyable—especially for budget travelers.

• Tourist scams and "helpful" locals: One of the most common scams is the “closed site” trick, where a friendly stranger insists that a temple or fort is shut for the day and offers to take you somewhere else—usually to a shop where they get a commission. This happens constantly near major attractions in Delhi, Jaipur, and Agra.
• Overpriced guided tours: Many travelers book expensive private guides for places like the Taj Mahal or Jaipur’s palaces, but in most cases, you don’t need one. Official audio tours cost just a few dollars and provide the same information.
• Goa’s over-commercialized beaches: While Goa is famous for being a backpacker paradise, many of its beaches have been taken over by high-end resorts and domestic tourists. Beer prices in touristy areas rival those in Western countries, and some beaches feel more like mini-Ibizas than the laid-back retreats travelers expect.

The Best Budget Experiences in India

Despite the scams and hassles, India remains one of the best cheap places to go for couples—especially if you focus on its more authentic experiences.

• Exploring Old Delhi’s markets: Wandering through Chandni Chowk, sampling street food, and taking in the chaos of the spice markets costs next to nothing but is one of the most exciting things to do in the country.
• Taking scenic train rides: Riding the train through India is not just a way to save money—it’s an adventure. The toy train to Darjeeling or the ride through Rajasthan’s desert landscapes costs just a few dollars but offers world-class scenery.
• Staying in homestays: Unlike budget hotels, homestays offer a more personal experience. Many families run guesthouses where they provide home-cooked meals and local tips—often for under $20 a night.
• Visiting religious sites: Many of India’s most breathtaking places, from the Golden Temple in Amritsar to the ghats of Varanasi, are free to visit. You’ll experience India’s spirituality firsthand, without spending a rupee.

Read also: Cheap Places to Go in Canada That Are Actually Worth Visiting

Romania – Europe on a Budget (Yes, Really!)

Europe is infamous for being expensive, but Romania flips that stereotype on its head. If you’re looking for cheap places to go for couples in Europe, this might be one of the best-kept secrets. Medieval towns, dramatic castles, and mountain landscapes come at a fraction of the cost you’d pay in Western Europe. A cozy guesthouse in Transylvania costs as little as $25, a full meal with wine can be under $10, and public transport is shockingly cheap.

Unlike destinations that claim to be budget-friendly but sneak in high tourist prices, Romania is genuinely affordable. The best part? It still feels undiscovered compared to Western Europe, meaning fewer crowds and a more authentic experience. But like anywhere, there are a few tourist traps that aren’t worth your money.

How Far Does $50 a Day Go in Romania?

Romania is one of the best cheap places to go for couples who want a European getaway without the typical high costs. Here’s what you can expect to spend:

• Accommodation: Budget hotels, guesthouses, and pensions (family-run inns) cost $25–$35 per night for a private room. In rural areas, prices drop even lower.
• Food: A full meal at a traditional Romanian restaurant costs around $4–$6 per person, while street food like covrigi (Romanian pretzels) or mici (grilled sausages) costs under $2.
• Transport: Public transport is incredibly cheap—city buses and trams are often under $1, and a train from Bucharest to Brașov (a 2.5-hour ride) is about $7–$10 in second class.
• Activities: Many of Romania’s best sights—medieval towns, hiking trails, and scenic countryside—are free. Even castles and museums charge modest entry fees of $3–$7.

Estimated daily budget: A couple can easily travel Romania on $40–$50 a day, including private accommodation and sit-down meals. It’s one of the cheapest places in Europe where you can feel like you’re living well without overspending.

What’s Not Worth the Money

Romania offers great value, but a few touristy experiences aren’t worth the cost or hype.

• Bran Castle ("Dracula’s Castle"): Often marketed as Vlad the Impaler’s home, Bran Castle has little actual connection to Dracula beyond tourist hype. The $10 entrance fee isn’t outrageous, but the castle itself is small, and the surrounding area is packed with overpriced souvenir stalls. If you’re a die-hard Dracula fan, go for it—but if you just want to see an impressive castle, Peleș Castle is a far better experience.
• Tourist restaurants in Bucharest’s Old Town: The historic center of Bucharest is beautiful, but many restaurants here target tourists with inflated prices. We nearly paid $20 each for an average meal—five times what a local tavern would charge. Some places even have a “tourist menu” with higher prices than the Romanian version.
• Expensive guided tours: Many popular sites (like castles or fortified churches) can be visited easily on your own. Some tour operators charge $50+ for a day trip that you could do for under $15 using public transport and a little planning.

The Best Budget Experiences in Romania

Despite a few overhyped attractions, Romania offers plenty of fantastic experiences for budget-conscious couples.

• Exploring medieval towns like Brașov, Sibiu, and Sighișoara: These cities feel straight out of a fairy tale, with cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and charming cafes. The best part? Walking around costs nothing, and a cozy guesthouse stay is super affordable.
• Hiking in the Carpathian Mountains: Romania has stunning mountain scenery, and hiking trails are free to explore. The Bucegi Mountains near Brașov offer breathtaking views without needing a pricey tour.
• Visiting Peleș Castle: Unlike the touristy Bran Castle, Peleș is a truly spectacular royal palace with lavish interiors. Entry is around $8—a steal compared to castles in Western Europe.
• Taking advantage of free walking tours: Many cities, including Bucharest and Brașov, offer excellent free walking tours. You’ll learn about history and culture for the price of a small tip.

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Mexico – Beyond the Resorts

Mexico is often associated with all-inclusive resorts and pricey beach towns, but if you look beyond the tourist hotspots, it’s one of the best cheap places to go for couples. With $0.50 tacos, $25 guesthouses, and a well-connected (and affordable) bus system, Mexico offers incredible value—if you know where to go.

However, the country is also a tale of two price tags. Stay in the resort zones of Cancún, Tulum, or Playa del Carmen, and you’ll burn through your budget fast. But venture into smaller towns, eat where locals eat, and avoid overpriced tours, and you’ll find that Mexico is not only one of the best cheap places to go for couples, but also one of the most rewarding.

What $50 a Day Gets You in Mexico

If you travel wisely, Mexico is an incredible destination for budget-conscious couples. Here’s what you can expect to spend per day:

• Accommodation: Budget guesthouses and hostels cost around $20–$30 per night for a private room. In less touristy areas, prices can drop even lower.
• Food: Mexico is one of the best countries in the world for cheap, delicious food. Tacos cost $0.50–$1 each, and a full meal at a local eatery is usually $5–$10. A market breakfast of tamales and fresh juice is under $3.
• Transport: Local buses and metro rides in cities cost around $0.50, while long-distance buses between towns cost $8–$15, depending on the route. Domestic budget flights can be as low as $30 if booked in advance.
• Activities: Many of Mexico’s best experiences—strolling through colonial towns, visiting markets, or relaxing on public beaches—are free. Entry fees for major sites like Chichén Itzá ($15) are relatively affordable but can add up if you visit multiple ruins.

Estimated daily budget: A couple can comfortably explore Mexico on $50 a day, provided they stay away from overpriced tourist zones and avoid unnecessary splurges.

What’s Not Worth the Money

While Mexico is one of the best cheap places to go for couples, some experiences are overpriced and not worth the cost.

• Resort towns like Cancún and Tulum: These destinations may look beautiful on Instagram, but they are among the most expensive places in Mexico. A beer that costs $1 in a small town can be $5–$6 at a beach bar in Tulum. Many restaurants cater to tourists with inflated prices, and budget accommodations are hard to find.
• Overpriced tours to cenotes and ruins: While Mexico’s cenotes (natural sinkholes) and ruins are incredible, many tour companies overcharge for guided excursions. You can often visit independently for a fraction of the cost. For example, taking a local bus to Chichén Itzá costs under $5, while tours from Cancún can be $50+ per person.
• Beach clubs and "exclusive" experiences: Many beaches in Mexico are free, but some beach clubs charge high fees just for a chair and umbrella. Instead of paying $20–$50 to enter a private beach club, seek out public beaches where you can relax for free.

The Best Budget Experiences in Mexico

Mexico is one of the best cheap places to go for couples who love food, history, and adventure. Here’s where you’ll get the best value:

• Exploring colonial towns like Guanajuato and Oaxaca: These cities are filled with stunning architecture, lively plazas, and incredible local food—all for a fraction of what you’d pay in resort areas.
• Street food and markets: Eating at mercados is not only the cheapest way to enjoy Mexico’s cuisine, but it’s also the most authentic. Some of the best tacos, tamales, and quesadillas are found in tiny food stalls rather than fancy restaurants.
• Visiting ruins without the crowds: Instead of splurging on a pricey guided tour to Chichén Itzá, consider visiting lesser-known ruins like Ek Balam or Uxmal, where entry is cheaper, and you won’t be surrounded by massive tour groups.
• Taking long-distance buses: Mexico’s ADO bus system is comfortable, reliable, and affordable. A bus from Mexico City to Puebla (a two-hour trip) costs around $8–$10, making it a budget-friendly way to explore the country.

Read also: Cheap Places to Go in South America – The Best Budget Destinations

Peru – Budget Adventure with One Big Splurge

Peru is often seen as a dream destination for budget travelers, with its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and famous ruins. And for the most part, it lives up to its reputation as one of the best cheap places to go for couples. A couple can easily survive on $50 a day with cheap guesthouses, $3 set meals, and affordable public transport.

However, there’s one major exception—Machu Picchu. While everyday travel costs in Peru are low, visiting the country’s most famous attraction can blow your budget fast. Between entrance fees, mandatory transport, and overpriced food in Aguas Calientes, a trip to Machu Picchu can cost more than several days of regular travel.

So, is Peru still one of the best cheap places to go for couples? Here’s what you need to know.

What $50 a Day Gets You in Peru

Outside of Machu Picchu, Peru is an incredibly affordable destination. Here’s a breakdown of daily expenses:

• Accommodation: Private rooms in budget hotels or guesthouses cost around $20–$30 per night, often including breakfast. In smaller towns, you can find options for even less.
• Food: The menú del día (daily set menu) at local restaurants costs $3–$5 and includes soup, a main dish, and a drink. Street snacks like empanadas or anticuchos (grilled meat skewers) are often $1.
• Transport: City buses cost under $0.50, while long-distance buses between major cities range from $8–$20. In cities like Lima and Cusco, taxis and rideshares are cheap ($2–$5 for short rides).
• Activities: Many of Peru’s best experiences—hiking in the Andes, visiting markets, or exploring colonial towns—are free. Entry to museums and archaeological sites is usually under $10.

Estimated daily budget: A couple can easily travel Peru for $50 a day, except when visiting Machu Picchu.

What’s Not Worth the Money

While Peru offers incredible value, some experiences aren’t worth the cost or hassle.

• Overpriced Machu Picchu tours: Many tourists pay $300–$500 per person for Inca Trail tours or guided trips to Machu Picchu. While hiking the Inca Trail is a bucket-list experience, cheaper alternatives exist (like taking the train or hiking via Hidroeléctrica).
• Touristy Cusco scams: Cusco is beautiful but packed with aggressive touts selling overpriced massages, tours, and souvenirs. Restaurants near the main plaza charge up to 10 times what locals pay elsewhere in town.
• "Hidden fees" on cheap tours: Many budget tours (such as Lake Titicaca island visits or Colca Canyon excursions) start cheap but add unexpected fees for boat rides, village visits, or “mandatory” meals.

The Best Budget Experiences in Peru

Peru remains one of the best cheap places to go for couples, offering world-class sights at a fraction of the cost of other destinations. Here’s what’s actually worth your money:

• Exploring Cusco and the Sacred Valley independently: Many ruins (like Ollantaytambo and Pisac) can be reached by public transport and are covered under a $45 multi-site tourist pass, making them much cheaper than guided tours.
• Trekking in Colca Canyon: Instead of an expensive Inca Trail trek, a multi-day Colca Canyon trek costs around $50 total (including accommodation and food). The views are just as spectacular, and it’s far less crowded.
• Visiting Arequipa and its surroundings: Arequipa, Peru’s “White City,” is one of the most beautiful and affordable places in the country, with $20 guesthouses, $3 meals, and stunning views of surrounding volcanoes.
• DIY Machu Picchu trip: Instead of paying for an expensive tour, take a budget-friendly route: a $10 colectivo (shared van) to Hidroeléctrica and a scenic two-hour hike to Aguas Calientes. This can save you hundreds of dollars compared to the train.

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Morocco – Exotic and Affordable, If You Can Hustle

Morocco is one of the most exciting and budget-friendly travel destinations in the world, but it’s also one of the most challenging. If you’re looking for cheap places to go for couples, Morocco offers vibrant markets, dramatic landscapes, and delicious food at rock-bottom prices. A couple can live well on $50 a day—staying in traditional riads, feasting on tagines, and exploring historic medinas.

But there’s a catch. Morocco is a place where you have to negotiate. Whether it’s a taxi ride, a market purchase, or even a hotel room, prices are rarely fixed, and tourists are often quoted inflated rates. Scams, pushy vendors, and unofficial “guides” can turn an otherwise cheap trip into an expensive headache.

So, is Morocco one of the best cheap places to go for couples, or does the hassle outweigh the savings? Here’s the real breakdown.

What $50 a Day Gets You in Morocco

For budget-conscious travelers, Morocco is a goldmine of affordability—if you avoid the tourist traps. Here’s a realistic cost breakdown:

• Accommodation: A private double room in a traditional riad (guesthouse) costs around $20–$30 per night, often including breakfast. In less touristy cities, prices can be even lower.
• Food: Street food like harira soup or kebabs costs $1–$2, while a full meal at a local eatery (tagine, bread, and tea) is usually $5–$7 per person. Avoiding Western-style restaurants will keep costs low.
• Transport: Petit taxis within cities cost $1–$3 (always negotiate or insist on the meter), while intercity buses range from $8–$15. A train from Marrakech to Casablanca (3 hours) is around $10 in second class.
• Activities: Many attractions, like medinas and souks, are free to explore. Entrance to historic sites like palaces or mosques usually costs $5–$10.

Estimated daily budget: A couple can comfortably explore Morocco for $50 a day, but it requires awareness and negotiation.

What’s Not Worth the Money

While Morocco is one of the best cheap places to go for couples, certain experiences can be overpriced or frustrating.

• Overpriced desert tours from Marrakech: Many tour companies sell expensive Sahara excursions for $100+ per person. Booking locally or arranging your own trip can cut the cost in half.
• Pushy market vendors in Marrakech: The souks are fun to explore, but many vendors aggressively overcharge tourists. Some even claim a fixed price, only to suddenly demand double at checkout.
• Guides who "offer to help": In cities like Fes and Marrakech, unofficial guides may approach tourists, claiming to offer free directions, then demand a hefty tip. This happens frequently in the medinas, where getting lost is easy.

The Best Budget Experiences in Morocco

Despite the challenges, Morocco remains one of the best cheap places to go for couples, offering unforgettable experiences at minimal cost.

• Wandering the medinas: Getting lost in the narrow streets of Fes or Marrakech is one of Morocco’s greatest joys—and it’s free. Just be cautious of overly helpful locals looking to make a quick buck.
• Eating at local food stalls: Instead of overpriced tourist restaurants, eat at simple food stalls or hole-in-the-wall cafés where locals dine. A bowl of lentil soup, fresh bread, and mint tea can cost under $2.
• Visiting Chefchaouen: The famous Blue City is as stunning in person as it is in photos. Unlike Marrakech, it’s laid-back, and accommodations are budget-friendly.
• Hammams (traditional bathhouses): While luxury hammams cost $50+, local hammams charge as little as $5 for a traditional bath and scrub—an authentic experience at a fraction of the cost.
• Public transport over private tours: Instead of expensive guided day trips, take a local bus or shared taxi to places like Essaouira or the Atlas Mountains for just a few dollars.

Read also: What Are the Best Cheap Places to Go in Europe for Budget Travelers

Conclusion: Is $50 a Day for Couples Realistic?

After breaking down some of the best cheap places to go for couples, one thing is clear—yes, it is possible to travel as a couple on $50 a day. However, it requires:

• Avoiding overhyped and overpriced tourist traps.
• Eating like a local and using public transport.
• Learning when to haggle and when to walk away.
• Choosing destinations wisely—some countries (like Vietnam and India) are far easier to travel cheaply than others (like Mexico’s tourist hotspots).

For couples willing to be flexible, adventurous, and smart with their spending, these destinations prove that budget travel doesn’t mean sacrificing romance, fun, or incredible experiences.