Introduction
The hardest part of a long-distance relationship (LDR) isn't the distance itself: it's the never-ending, exhausting cost of travel.
When you're dating across borders or continents, flight costs quickly become your biggest expense. But what if there was a smarter way?
Instead of one person always flying to the other (unfair and expensive), meeting in the middle at a budget-friendly destination can: - Cut costs in half (or more) - Feel more fair to both partners - Turn your meetup into a mini-vacation - Create new shared memories in exciting places
The Europe advantage
Europe is uniquely positioned for budget long-distance travel: - Ryanair & EasyJet: Ultra-low-cost carriers connect nearly every European city - Central location: Many destinations are within 2-3 hours of major cities - Schengen zone: No border controls between most European countries - Budget-friendly countries: Eastern and Southern Europe offer amazing value
Krakow, Poland
Things to do
- Explore the beautiful Old Town (UNESCO site)
- Visit the sobering Auschwitz memorial
- Discover the unique Wieliczka Salt Mine
- Enjoy Polish cuisine and vibrant nightlife
2. Budapest, Hungary
Things to do
- Soak in historic thermal baths together
- Take sunset walks along the Danube
- Explore Buda Castle and Fisherman's Bastion
- Experience the famous ruin bars
3. Porto, Portugal
Things to do
- Tour port wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia
- Walk along the Douro River at sunset
- Visit stunning Livraria Lello bookstore
- Day trip to beautiful Douro Valley vineyards
4. Vilnius, Lithuania
Things to do
- Wander the charming Old Town
- Visit the quirky Republic of Užupis (artist district)
- Explore Soviet-era history
- Enjoy incredible coffee culture
5. Valencia, Spain
Things to do
- Relax on Mediterranean beaches
- Visit the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences
- Taste authentic paella in its birthplace
- Bike through the beautiful Turia Gardens
6. Sofia, Bulgaria
Things to do
- Explore the mix of Ottoman and Soviet architecture
- Hike or ski in nearby Vitosha Mountain
- Visit Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
- Experience incredible value for money
7. Prague, Czech Republic
Things to do
- Cross the iconic Charles Bridge at sunrise
- Explore Prague Castle complex
- Enjoy world-class beer at historic pubs
- Walk through the magical Old Town Square
How to choose the right destination
Use Betweengs to determine which of these seven destinations offers the cheapest combined flights for you and your partner.
Our algorithm considers: 1. Both origin cities simultaneously: Multiple airlines and routes 2. Flexible date options: Total cost optimization
Simply enter both cities and let Betweengs show you the most affordable meeting point.
Money-saving tips for LDR travel
- 1Book separately but coordinate: Don't try to book "together" - airlines rarely offer discounts for pairs. Book individually but aim for the same flights.
- 2Use fare alerts: Set up alerts on Betweengs for your chosen destination to catch price drops.
- 3Travel light: LCCs charge for checked bags. Pack carry-on only and save €50-100 per person.
- 4Consider overnight accommodation: Taking a late flight and early return flight lets you save one night of accommodation.
- 5Book accommodations early: Airbnb apartments are usually cheaper than hotels for stays of 3+ nights.
- 6Cook some meals: Book places with kitchens and cook breakfast/some dinners together.
Making the most of your time together
The beauty of meeting in the middle is turning necessary travel into adventure: - Explore together: New places create shared memories - Fair contribution: Neither person bears the full cost - Extended stays: Sometimes it's cheaper to stay longer (especially with budget accommodations) - Variety: Different meetup destinations keep things exciting
Real cost comparison
Traditional approach (one person always travels): - Person A flies to Person B: €250 each way = €500 per visit - Person A pays 100% of flight costs - Total annual cost (4 visits): €2,000 + accommodation in Person B's city
Betweengs middle-point approach: - Both fly to Sofia: €50 each = €100 total - Both share costs equally: €50 each - Affordable accommodation: €20 per person per night - Total annual cost (4 visits): €200 flights + €160 accommodation = €360 each
Annual savings per person: €1,640
Conclusion
Long-distance relationships are challenging enough without breaking the bank on travel. By meeting in the middle at budget-friendly European destinations, you can: - See each other more often - Explore amazing places together - Share costs fairly - Save thousands per year
Ready to plan your next meetup? Use Betweengs to find the perfect affordable destination for you and your partner.