Non-violinist buying a violin as a gift

My girlfriend played violin in high school but stopped playing a few years ago and sold her violin but has expressed interest in picking it up again. In my research on what violin to buy her I've become overwhelmed with conflicting opinions and advice. I see many people saying that if you can't drop thousands of dollars on a decent-quality violin then to not bother, and others saying that a $150 violin, although not perfect, will suffice. I'm currently not in a position to drop more than $400 on a Christmas gift, so does there exist a violin that would fit her needs as an intermediate/non-professional player trying to pick the instrument back up but also doesn't break the bank?