Valentine’s Day only comes around once a year; it allows us to treat the ones we love and make them feel special. That might be as simple as booking in for a nice meal at a restaurant in your local area, but if you want to really knock the ball out of the park, a romantic trip away might just be the best way to steal your significant other’s heart.
There are plenty of destinations out there that will make you fall in love with your darling over and over again. Whether it’s passionate cities like Buenos Aires or far away tropical islands like Koh Samui, we’re here to show you how to plan the perfect Valentine’s escape.
How to Plan a Budget-Friendly Valentine’s Day Trip
Planning a getaway for a major celebration, like Valentine’s Day, often comes with a higher price tag compared to a random midweek trip in January. Hotels are well aware that more couples are in buying mode, so they often raise their prices. That said, some companies see this as an opportunity to attract Valentine’s Day travelers by releasing enticing offers, such as discounts on multi-night stays.
The good news? This means you can pick up favorable deals to visit some of the most romantic destinations on earth. Stick with us, and we’ll show you how to plan a budget-friendly Valentine’s Day trip!
Affordable Valentine’s Day Getaways for Couples
Uncover the Beauty of South America’s Version of Paris in Buenos Aires, Argentina
Often named the Paris of South America, Buenos Aires embodies passion and charm that’s truly unmatched. It’s long been a favorite destination for couples seeking a romantic getaway. Picture it: the sounds of tango, colorful streets, exquisite wines, and some of the finest cuisine on the continent. And yes, the steak truly lives up to the hype.
Where do I start with all the couple-friendly activities in Buenos Aires? Why not draw closer to your partner with a private tango lesson, where you can master the basics of Argentina’s most famous dance? (ARS 39701.85 (€37) per person). After working up an appetite, it’s time to refuel with a classic Argentinian feast. Argentina lives up to its reputation for steak, but choosing from the many steakhouses can be tricky. While some are pricey, there are still some affordable spots out there, like Parrilla Peña, that allow you to come and savor an 800-gram tenderloin for around ARS 24,000 (€22.37). Keep in mind, though, that Argentina’s currency is known for fluctuating frequently, so prices may vary depending on when you visit.
And since you’re traveling with your special someone, you’ll want a nice area to stay. Palermo is a popular choice, but accommodation here can be pricier because so many people want to base themselves there. Consider other neighborhoods like Recoleta or Puerto Madero for a more cost-effective option.
Make Memories to Last a Lifetime in Taipei, Taiwan
The chances of Taipei being on your radar for a couple’s vacation before reading this might be slim, but after our rundown, you might just change your mind. This buzzing East Asian city is best loved for its ancient temples, like Dalongdong Baoan Temple, and incredible night markets serving traditional Taiwanese cuisine. However, one thing that Taipei doesn’t get enough credit for is how surprisingly affordable it is compared to other major cities in Asia. It gives you the chance to spoil your partner without the hefty price tag of destinations like Singapore.
Where will your Valentine’s Day getaway in Taipei take you? Evenings in the city are best spent exploring Ningxia Night Market. For those new to the night market scene, this is a perfect starting point; it’s smaller and less chaotic than some of the city’s bigger options, though you should still expect some crowds. The food here is nothing short of spectacular. Make sure to sample local favorites like Liu Yu Zi Taro’s egg balls, Fun Sun G’s fried chicken cutlets, and Rong’s pork liver, all must-tries that won’t cost more than a few euros.
If you and your partner enjoy live music, Taipei’s thriving jazz scene is not to be missed. Head over to Blue Note, a legendary club that has been running live jazz shows since 1974. With live performances almost every night of the week, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy some blues and swing. Entry fees are NT$ 520 (€15.34) on weekends and NT$ 450 (€13.27) on weekdays, and each ticket includes a complimentary drink.
Another great thing about Taipei is its abundance of cheap, stylish hotels. And when I say hotels, I don’t mean dingy spots tucked down sketchy alleyways. I’m talking about upscale accommodations like Tomorrow Hotel, where room prices start at just NT$ 847.67 (€25). You’ll be treated to spacious, air-conditioned suites with flat-screen TVs and premium bathrooms; it’s a private hideaway for you and your partner to relax and recharge after tackling the streets of Taipei.
Most Romantic Tropical Island Escapes for Valentine’s Day
Relax and Recharge in Pure Paradise in Koh Samui, Thailand
With over 1,400 islands in Thailand, there’s no shortage of places to head away on a Valentine’s break. While the classic hotspots like Phuket and Koh Phi Phi tend to attract most tourists, if you venture east into the Gulf of Thailand, you’ll discover the gem that is Koh Samui.
Koh Samui is renowned for its breathtaking ice-white beaches. Chaweng Beach is superb for couples who love to party and live it up, with hotspots like ARKbar Beach Club & Resort being a favorite. From its luxurious rooms with private patios starting at just THB 3,000 (€84.50) to its lively beach club hosting daily parties, this is the place for couples looking to let loose this Valentine’s Day. If you’re after a quieter break, have a look into Lamai Beach; the vibe here is far more relaxed, and resorts tend to be on the cheaper side. A standout option is The Pearl of Samui Resort, a charming property with just 12 beautifully designed villas right on the coastline. Imagine waking up to the sound of waves and starting your day in pure serenity. Rooms can be booked for as little as THB 1,597.63 (€45) per night if you plan ahead; you’ll realize it’s an absolute steal when you see it for yourself.
Once you’ve secured your accommodation, it’s time to plan some activities to make this Valentine’s Day truly special. Treat yourselves to a pampering session at Cyan Spa, where you can indulge in relaxing therapy, like a foot massage, for just THB 450 (€12.67). Be sure to set aside some time to check out Ang Thong National Marine Park, an archipelago of 42 islands featuring towering limestone cliffs, lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and pristine beaches. Boat tours typically start at THB 1,029.59 (€29) for a full-day excursion, though you’ll need to budget an additional THB 300 (€8.45) for the entrance fee.
Whisk Your Partner Away to Palawan, the Philippines, This Valentine’s Day
The Philippines is home to many remarkable islands, but none quite compare to Palawan. Long and skinny, with only a width of 39 km, Palawan has so much for couples to enjoy this Valentine’s Day, with charming seaside towns scattered from south to north. Whether you opt for a peaceful holiday in the lesser-known southern gem of Brooke’s Point or spend a few nights in Puerto Princesa after landing, one thing is certain: your trip won’t be complete without witnessing the natural beauty of El Nido.
El Nido is the ultimate destination for most couples visiting Palawan, and it’s easy to see why. To me, it’s unlike anywhere else in the Philippines. From fabulous beaches like Las Cabañas Beach to the exhilarating hikes up Taraw Cliff, even writing about it makes me want to go back.
A must-do activity in El Nido is the iconic island-hopping excursion. There are four different tours, labeled A, B, C, and D, each offering stops at a handful of cool locations, so you’ll want to do your research beforehand. Tour A features the mesmerizing Big Lagoon, along with other highlights like Seven Commandos Beach and Shimizu Island. Tour B takes you to fascinating caves and lovely spots like Pinagbuyatan Island. Tour C includes stops at the magnificent Matinloc Shrine and the unique Helicopter Island. Lastly, Tour D focuses on places like Ipil Beach, Cadlao Lagoon, and more.
Prices for these tours depend on the operator and the package you choose. Shared boat tours typically start at around PHP 1,260 (€20.88) for a full-day excursion. Since it’s Valentine’s Day, you might want to book a private excursion, which provides a more intimate experience, with prices starting at approximately PHP 2,420 (€40.10) per person.
Best Destinations for a Romantic Valentine’s Day Trip
Witness the Magic of Toledo, Spain, Together
Less than an hour’s drive from Madrid, Toledo makes for a magical Valentine’s Day escape with your soulmate. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Toledo feels totally different from the bustling Gran Vía in the capital. The city’s terracotta-roofed buildings and charming medieval laneways are sure to leave you in awe, and best of all, it’s entirely walkable. While public transport isn’t necessary, the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus (€25.61) can be a handy option if you’re both looking to take it easy.
The city is divided into three distinct quarters, each with its own culture: Christian, Jewish, and Muslim. While it may sound like a lot to explore in one day, it’s completely manageable. Begin your morning in the Christian Quarter, where you’ll find the Alcázar Fortress (€5 entry) and the Catedral Primada de Toledo (€12 entry). Next, head to the Jewish Quarter to visit landmarks like the Tránsito Synagogue (€3 entry) and Santa María la Blanca (€4 entry). Finally, make your way to the Muslim Quarter to admire the Cristo de la Luz Mosque (€4 entry).
After a long day pacing around the city, you’ll be ready to indulge in a well-deserved, traditional Spanish meal. Despite its small size, Toledo has some exceptional dining options. One standout is Restaurante La Ermitaña. Set in a rustic building with mindblowing vistas over the city, it’s the ideal setting for an intimate dinner for two. Just be sure to book ahead, as it’s a popular spot.
Let Positano, Italy, Take Your Breath Away
I think you know why I saved this Valentine’s Day pick until the very end. Positano, a name familiar to nearly everyone, graces the covers of all Amalfi Coast postcards; it’s highly sought-after for its stunning rainbow-hued buildings cascading down the hillsides. Seeing a photograph of Positano is one thing, but experiencing it in person is a true sight to behold.
A lot of couples refrain from even looking into Positano for Valentine’s Day because it’s an extremely expensive place to visit, even during the off-season. However, going on a day trip from Naples can make it quite cheap. The journey there is straightforward and doesn’t cost much: take a €7, 1-hour-and-40-minute bus ride from Naples to Sorrento, then transfer to the SITA Bus for around €3, which will get you to Positano in about 45 minutes.
Positano is compact and steep, so comfortable footwear is a must for your time here. I advise you to start your day by exploring the main attractions, such as the viewpoint on Via Cristoforo Colombo, the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, and Spiaggia Grande Beach. Once you’ve ticked off all the sights from your list, get yourselves into one of the many adorable restaurants for dinner as the sun sets over the coast. I recommend Luna; it has fair prices, mouthwatering food, and views that will leave you speechless. And whatever you do, don’t miss the tiramisu for dessert; it was one of the best I have had in Italy.
Arrange an Unforgettable Valentine’s Getaway for Your Other Half With the Help of This Guide
Valentine’s Day is all about sharing the day with the one you love most, so it makes sense to celebrate in one of these phenomenal locations. This February 14th, treat your partner to a love-filled escape in a tropical paradise like Koh Samui or amidst the buzzing atmosphere of Buenos Aires; the adventure is yours.