Nowadays you can’t travel to another city in your own country without spending an exorbitant amount of money. For most people, visiting other countries may seem like a pipedream - how on earth are you supposed to afford a plane ticket, accommodation, and food while still having money left over for entertainment? It turns out it may be easier than you think. There are plenty of budget-friendly travel destinations for intrepid adventurers and tourists alike. Read on to find out which places are worth your time while still being easy on your wallet.
Santiago, Chile
Fans of Breaking Bad will no doubt recognize Chile as the birthplace of arguably the show’s best character, Gus Fring. While that fact in and of itself is enough reason to visit Chile, there’s plenty more to like about this up and coming travel destination. For starters, the accommodation is inexpensive, meaning you’ll always have a roof over your head while you explore the sights and sounds of the city (of which there are many). The food is also cheap - and delicious.
Places to explore include the La Vega Market and Casablanca, but wherever you go you will be astounded by the stunning architecture of the city and the warm, infectious atmosphere that permeates the environments.
Buenos Aires, Argentina
If you’re at all familiar with football and the Premier League, you’ve no doubt heard of Lionel Messi and his prowess on the field. While he’s come far as a football superstar, Buenos Aires in Argentina is where his journey began. Even for non football fans, this is a stunning place to visit, due in no small part to its persistent upbeat atmosphere. If Vegas is the city that never sleeps then Buenos Aires is the city that never stops dancing, and you’ll soon be moving to its thumping rhythm.
There are many reasons to visit this Argentinian jewel, but wine lovers and ice cream lovers will quickly find themselves at home thanks to the sheer number of cafes and ice cream parlors lining the streets.
Granada, Nicaragua
Situated near the Mombacho volcano, Nicaragua remains a hidden gem in Granada. While you may not have seen it mentioned on travel blogs and lists of popular tourist destinations, Nicaragua welcomes its visitors with open arms, placing their comfort and entertainment at the forefront of its tourism industry. Not only will you be able to visit the volcano that dominates the skyline, you’ll also be treated to ziplining and sailing.
Besides that, the city is wonderful to explore without spending a dollar. The colonial-era buildings are remarkably well-maintained, and the overall architecture of the city is dominated by bright colors, sprinkled with idyllic beaches throughout.
Agra, India
You may not immediately recognise the name Agra, but you’re definitely familiar with its most famous attraction, an historic cultural marvel of architectural beauty - the Taj Mahal. Indeed, the ancient structure draws flocks of tourists everyday, meaning you’ll always be surrounded by like-minded people wanting to experience the Taj Mahal’s majesty at its fullest.The famous World Heritage Site is also located beside the gorgeous Yamuna River which is also worth visiting.
Despite being one of the most popular travel destinations in the world, finding accommodation in Agra is surprisingly easy and light on your wallet. And it’s worth it, too - visiting the Taj Mahal at night is an experience like no other.
Zagreb, Croatia
Zagreb is not a name you’ll often find on lists like these, which is a shame because it deserves more recognition as one of the best travel destinations for any budding globe-trotter. It’s a city steeped in history. There’s something to be discovered around every corner, from stunning hand-painted murals to impeccably preserved historical buildings. Even without the museums and local tours (which are also worth investing in), you’ll come away with an incredible appreciation for this city’s history.
Besides that, you can also expect cheap accommodation to suit your wallet. The multitude of restaurants and cafes lets you sample some of the local cuisine no matter the size of your budget. For fans of Eastern European history, this one’s a no-brainer.
Puebla, Mexico
Don’t worry - you won’t need orange-tinted glasses to fully appreciate this shining jewel in the crown of Mexico. Puebla is a city defined by its colors which includes pretty much every color of the rainbow and the various shades and hues in between. Architecture buffs will feast their eyes on the stunning Baroque-style buildings which have stood the test of time, while those with a keen appreciation for culture will feel right at home on the world-famous Candy Street.
You’ll also have a chance to experience Talavera Pottery and will have no trouble finding accommodation. The attractions - of which there are many - attract plenty of visitors from all walks of life meaning you’ll never be alone on your adventure.
Gaziantep, Turkey
Those with a palate for fine foods and delicacies should feel right at home in Gaziantep, the pistachio capital of the world. Pistachio cream, pistachio coffee, pistachio Baklava - if you can think of a food and put the word “pistachio” in front of it, chances are you’ll find it here. But it’s not only food-lovers that the city attracts. Art enthusiasts will find plenty to appreciate throughout the city, but especially at the Zeugma Musik Muzesi which holds the honor of being the largest mosaic museum in the world.
Indeed, if this city could be described in one word it would be “flavored” because while it may be a bit of an acquired taste, those with an adventurous palate for traveling will find plenty to like - the delicious food is an added bonus.
Krabi, Thailand
If you’ve ever had any inclination at all to travel the world, you probably don’t need to be sold on Thailand as a destination. The entire country is gorgeous with picturesque beaches and an incredible natural beauty. However, Krabi is arguably the first place you should visit when traveling to Thailand, mostly because it gives you the fullest experience thanks to its numerous exotic beaches and exciting locale. Take the four island trip to get a complete picture of the country’s incredible beauty.
Obviously, there are plenty of local cuisines to sample - this is Thailand, after all. You’ll need a palate that’s used to dealing with spicy foods in order to truly appreciate the delicious meals on offer.
Herceg Novi, Montenegro
Many of the world’s best travel destinations attract plenty of tourists which can simultaneously be exciting and overstimulating. If you’ve been traveling for a while and need a place to get away from everyone else while still having a good time, Herceg Novi is the destination for you. It’s the very definition of idyllic, situated between Mount Orjen and the Adriatic Sea, enjoying warm sunlight and cool breezes throughout the year. Its local community is also known to be very welcoming to visitors.
While you’re visiting, make the most of your relaxation time with a mud bath or visit one of the many hidden beaches in the area. You’re bound to come away from Herceg Novi feeling recharged and with a newfound sense of peace.
Laguna Province, Philippines
Not every travel destination needs bright colors to feel warm and inviting. Not every new city needs to be exotic to be exciting. If you’re in search of a more low-key, relaxed experience, Laguna Province in the Philippines may be the place for you. It’s an incredibly understated travel destination that moves at a pace of its own. In that regard, it’s incredibly homely, welcoming to travelers with the warmth of a kind innkeeper rather than the bubbling excitement of a tour guide.
Still, there’s plenty to do in Laguna Province, especially for those with a more lethargic sense of adventure. Treat yourself to a visit to one of the many hot springs or take a tour of one of the churches, which are among the oldest in the Philippines.
Gobi Desert, Mongolia
In ancient times, Mongolia was ruled by horse-lords, nomadic, tribal people who respected the land they trod upon. It’s incredible then that the sweep of that majesty is still present to this day. The Gobi Desert encompasses an incredibly wide stretch of land whose natural beauty has been well-preserved. Fans of Middle-Earth should feel right at home due to the sheer scale of the place, which stretches from eastern China all the way to the edge of Mongolia.
There are plenty of tours available to travelers, and the local population are warm and welcoming to strangers. The serenity of the desert can calm any disquieted soul and the shimmering dunes make for a remarkable sight.
Zanzibar, Tanzania
While Europe and Asia present some of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, Africa should not be overlooked as a travel destination and Zanzibar should be your first stop. Home to a World Heritage Site in the form of Stone Town, the country is resplendent with both natural and man-made beauty, seemingly in harmony between them. The shallow sandbars make for a great location to gaze and appreciate the sparkling waters of the surrounding sea.
If you’re planning on visiting Stone Town (which is highly recommended), you’ll find cheap and affordable accommodation to fit your budget, and there are B&Bs aplenty. You’re sure to come away with a smile on your face.
Port Salut, Haiti
Haiti’s history can make for some difficult reading. For a country so beautiful, the tragedies it has endured are particularly gruesome. That should not, however, stop you from visiting Port Salut, one of the country’s best tourist destinations. In spite of its ugly history, the beauty of the country still shines through. The local community is warm and inviting. The rugged yet majestic landscapes make for exciting adventure. And the beaches - with their white powder sand and shimmering blue seas - are a relaxing getaway.
Port Salut is proof that a country’s history need not define its identity. If you can look past any preconceived notions of what Haiti is like, Port Salut makes for a remarkable destination.
Fez, Morocco
Africa has plenty of great travel destinations, but when most people think of Morocco, Marrakesh is normally the first place that comes to mind. While it’s worth visiting, there’s another Moroccan town that is just as exciting: Fez. Here you’ll find a great blend of the old and the new. It’s a place of seemingly contrasting colors and textures which is exactly what gives it its appeal. Narrow alleyways give way to ancient buildings, crowded main streets open up to huge, sprawling markets.
Simply put, the vibes are immaculate. There’s an unmistakable thrum of energy to Fez, a feeling of “alive-ness” which makes it particularly welcoming to travelers with a taste for excitement.
Barcelona, Spain
Most people need no introduction to Barcelona. Home to one of the most popular football clubs in the world, it’s an immensely popular tourist destination. Knowing this, most people may make the mistake of avoiding it due to the supposed cost of a trip there. In reality, Barcelona can be incredibly cheap to visit, and while football and tennis enthusiasts will immediately feel right at home, the city is also full of artists who would be more than happy to show off their murals to intrepid tourists.
Of course, you can’t visit anywhere without knowing where to eat. Visitors to Barcelona should make a point of visiting the La Boqueria market where they’ll be exposed to all kinds of exotic and delicious foods.
Kathmandu, Nepal
Kathmandu should already be an appealing destination for the spiritually inclined. Home to the Temple of Durbar Square, it’s already a popular attraction for those seeking enlightenment. If that’s not your bag though, Kathmandu is also a great place for trekkers, hikers, and mountaineers. Those with a keen appetite for adventure will find a lot to love, but nature lovers and history buffs will salivate at the mouth as well. There are plenty of activities to keep idle hands occupied, but starry-eyed admirers can simply stroll through the streets and have a great time.
Despite its popularity, visiting Kathmandu is actually pretty cheap. You’re guaranteed both accommodation and adventure when you visit.
Dakar, Senegal
Backpackers have plenty of options when it comes to where they’ll journey next. From small European towns to lively Asian communities, there’s always a place to hitch your spurs for a spell and rest your head. Of course, there’s one spot that often gets overlooked: Dakar, Senegal. It’s a sort of hidden gem amongst the backpacker community, mostly due to its low-key exterior. This is a place where people live, work, and pray, but the local community always has time for travelers.
Some great local attractions include the many mosques, cliffs, and beaches, but travelers should take particular note of the colorful attire the locals wear. It’s a chance to appreciate an entirely different culture, and that alone makes Dakar a place worth traveling to.
Antigua, Guatemala
In general, Guatemala features some of the best preserved colonial buildings in the world. The architecture has lost none of its original beauty, nor the ingenuity and intricacies of its designs. And nowhere in Guatemala is this more apparent than in Antigua. Despite its now ancient heritage, there’s a modern flavor to it as well - simply put, the city seems to be aware of how popular of a tourist destination it is and, as such, it accommodates explorers of all kinds, colors, and creeds. The food is delicious, the colors are lively.
That being said, this is one of those places that is best traveled to with a group. The nighttimes are known to be fairly dangerous, especially in the more ancient parts of the city - stick to the daytime markets and attractions for the best experience.
Yerevan, Armenia
There’s a certain appeal to exploring a place still steeped in natural beauty. Such locales provide a unique insight into our ancient past, as though you were looking through a telescope and seeing history unfold before you. There’s also the remarkable sense of majesty, akin to standing inside of an old cathedral and feeling humbled. Yerevan is one such place. The capital of Armenia seems to have been ripped straight out of the history books, proudly displaying its ancient heritage on its sleeve.
Here, you’ll experience gorgeous mountain vistas and deep valleys, worn cobbled paths, and breathtaking cliff-walks. As something of a hidden gem, visiting Yerevan is remarkably cheap and could potentially yield one of the best travel experiences of your life.
Siem Reap, Cambodia
Some folk prefer an adventure full of action and excitement. Others fancy a more restrained approach - peaceful strolls, calming sojourns. Siem Reap is for those who fall into the latter category. While it’s certainly a popular destination, it’s retained a sort of quiet majesty that makes the entire experience a peaceful one. Watching the sun shine its first light on Angkor Wat is an indescribable experience - it’s not uncommon for people to describe their visit to Siem Reap as a life-changing one.
Of course, there’s plenty of history to uncover here as well. The ancient structures have been kept intact - their reflections on the waters of the river will fill you with a remarkable sense of calm.
Budapest, Hungary
It’s the dream of many travelers to visit one of the world’s most famous cities. Places like New York, London, and Paris attract all kinds of people. Unfortunately, none of them are particularly friendly to your wallet - you’ll probably end up spending your travel money on accommodation alone. Fortunately, Budapest provides all the splendor of a big city without much of the financial worry that comes with it. It’s a gorgeous place to explore, especially at night when the lights are shining and bright.
If you’re looking for a good place to start, we’d recommend a visit to Szechenyi chain bridge which is perhaps even more glamorous than Golden Gate. Here you’ll also have a view of the stunning Parliament building which makes for a fantastic post card picture.
Hawaii, USA
This one should be a no-brainer for would-be travelers. What’s not to love about Hawaii? It pretty much codified the idyllic beach getaway trope thanks to its stunning ocean views and golden sandbars. It’s the place people think of when you mention the word “vacation.” That sort of pedigree comes with a substantial bit of baggage - because it’s so popular, it’s often overcrowded. Luckily, that seems to have worked in favor of tourists and visitors - accommodation is plentiful and cheap.
Think of your ideal vacation. You’re probably imagining spas, massages, beaches, and perpetual sunlight. Hawaii has all these things - and more - in spades, so if you haven’t visited it yet, this could be the sign you needed.
Tbilisi, Georgia
The best word to describe Eastern Europe would be “eclectic.” It’s a unique blend of both Eastern and Western architectural styles and designs. Saint Petersburg in Russia comes to mind if you’re interested in experiencing this mix for yourself. However, a more budget-friendly option comes in the form of Tbilisi in Georgia. It has all the eccentricities of traditional Eastern European architecture but is perhaps more friendly than other cities of its kind. With its rugged charm and bustling nightlife, it’s a great place to visit. It is widely called "Little Switzerland", and it's easy to see why.
Some notable points of interest include the concert hall, the various synagogues and mosques, and of course the ruins of the old Zoroastrian fire temple, which looks and sounds as if it were ripped straight from a dark fantasy novel a la The Witcher.
Montreal, Canada
Although Canada bears the brunt of many jokes (typically those told by residents of the US), don’t be fooled by its reputation. It’s easily one of the most naturally beautiful places in the world and a great place to visit, provided you can handle the cold. In fact, plenty of your favorite TV shows were filmed in Canada. But we want to give a particular shoutout to Montreal. It’s something of a cultural melting pot, not too dissimilar from New Orleans, but with a more structured layout. The reflection of the lights on the water makes for a majestic sight.
In Montreal, you’ll be treated to all the best things that Canada has to offer - great food, stunning sights, and a pervasive friendliness that is so rare nowadays. It’s got some pretty cheap accommodation too.
Brasov, Romania
Romania has something of a sinister reputation around the world. It’s a quiet country nestled amongst the forests and hills of its surrounding landscape, and such places often give rise to shadowy tales and rumors. Of course, it doesn’t really help that Romania is also the birthplace of Dracula. Go figure. Still, if you’ve a morbid sense of mystery and adventure, Brasov is a great place to visit. Despite preconceptions, the local population is incredibly friendly - you get the sense that they enjoy their reputation, even play into it from time to time.
Of course, all of it is in good fun. The point of any trip or adventure is to have a good time, and Brasov indeed provides that in spades.
Xian, China
A list like this simply wouldn’t be complete without any Chinese destination. Except, it’s not Hong Kong or Shanghai (although those would be great to visit as well). No, it’s Xian, an ancient city that is said to be the birthplace of Chinese civilization as we know it. This list is full of places steeped in history and culture, but it hardly gets more epic than this. Many of the old buildings have stood the test of time, such as the Xian city wall and its ancient tower. Of course, it’s also home to some of the world’s best cuisine. Who would have figured, right?
In 2018, it was ranked as one of the world’s cheapest places to visit and it holds that honor still to this day. It should be added to everyone's bucket list for sure!
Alsace, France
If you thought we’d make a list of the best places in the world to travel to without at least mentioning France, you’re dead wrong. While Paris will put a dent in even the biggest of budgets, the comparatively smaller town of Alsace is a much more inviting place. It’s like taking a step into France’s medieval past, complete with steeped-roof houses and bright, beaming colors that absolutely scream France.
Of course, how could we mention France without saying anything about the wine? Worry not because Alsace is one of the finest wine producers in the world, so seize your chance to sample some that sweet nectar in the same place it’s made.
Wroclaw, Poland
Wroclaw in Poland is an overlooked European gem, especially for travelers on a budget. In fact, Poland in general is not often thought of as a fantastic travel destination which is a shame because it’s packed to the brim with things to do. History students in particular will appreciate the chance to visit one of the country’s many museums and heritage sites - admission rates are as cheap as $5 per ticket. The public transport system is also super affordable and, in spite of its age, it’s pretty cheap as well. In general, you can get away with spending less than $40 per day.
Of course, cuisine is always an important factor for any budding traveler to consider, and the food on offer here is a lot more diverse than other European countries. Make sure you try out a Milk Bar, a local favorite.
Vilnius, Lithuania
While many European countries are well known throughout the world (either due to their politics, celebrities, or both), some are more low-key than others. Enter Lithuania, one of Europe’s smaller territories but no less brimming with beauty and splendor. Half the country is purely forests and lakes, which is perfect for fans of hiking and canoeing. Vilnius, in particular, makes for a budget-friendly travel destination. Many activities are totally free. We’d suggest visiting during Autumn or Winter, when the city really comes alive.
Spending a day in Lithuania shouldn’t cost you more than $40. While you’re there, make sure you visit one of the many castles hidden in the forests.
Bogota, Colombia
Colombia is often associated with criminal activity which is a shame because the country contains so much beauty that usually gets overlooked. It’s unfair to paint an entire country with a single brush. Fortunately, any visitor to Colombia will tell you how beautiful it is and how deep its history and traditions actually go. Bogota should be your first destination. The Lost City is home to many fantastic attractions. Better yet, the average day in Colombia shouldn’t cost you more than $35.
In fact, not only is the accommodation cheap, it’s luxurious as well. It’s pretty easy to snag a deal for a stay in one of the country’s many villas, so don’t hesitate in booking your trip.
Cape Town, South Africa
South Africa’s history is long and varied, with a few notable ugly spots around the 20th century. However, while its past may be muddy, the same can’t be said for many of the locales in this beautiful country, especially Cape Town. It’s sort of like the New York or Los Angeles of South Africa, an urban jewel filled with colorful people from all walks of life. It’s also a pretty cheap place to visit. An average day trip in Cape Town shouldn’t cost you more than $40, but it’s pretty easy to spend even less than that.
While you’re there, we suggest taking a trip up Table Mountain to experience one of the best views South Africa has to offer. And don't forget to visit the V&A (Victoria and Alfred) Waterfront for a cultural experience like none other.
Vientiane, Laos
It’s no secret that Southeast Asia is full of memorable locations and gorgeous views. It can get pretty oversaturated as a tourist destination, however, which is why Laos is so welcoming. It’s a little less well-known than many other Southeast Asian countries, which also makes it pretty welcoming to travelers of all kinds. The average day here shouldn’t cost you more than $30 and many of the activities to experience are also pretty cheap as a result.
The best spots to visit include the many, bountiful waterfalls and the spas the entire country is known for. If you're looking for relaxation for your body and your mind, this is the place to be.
Da Nang, Vietnam
Vietnam has become an incredibly popular tourist destination in recent years. There are plenty of foreign expats who live here now, meaning those from other countries shouldn’t feel totally intimidated. Fortunately, visiting Vietnam remains a pretty cheap option for travelers. The main appeal here is the exciting city life, especially in Ho Chi Minh and Da Nang, where you can sample some of the finest street food the world has to offer. You can spend a day in Vietnam for as little as $30 and still have a comprehensive, rich experience.
When in Da Nang, be sure to check out the Dragon Bridge and Da Nang Museum of Cham Sculpture for immersive cultural experiences that will leave you wanting for nothing.
Andros, Greece
It’s the dream of many to one day visit Greece, the birthplace of the famous Greek Myths which are some of the formative mythological stories in history. It may seem like a pipedream, but it’s more attainable than you may have thought. A day in Greece could cost you less than $45. This, of course, includes a visit to one of the country’s many famous beaches where you can experience the splendor of a Greek sunrise for yourself.
Andros is perhaps the cheapest city in Greece to visit but it features some of the country’s most famous attractions, namely ancient architecture, gorgeous beaches, and rustic cobbled streets.
Tallinn, Estonia
Estonia isn’t often mentioned on lists of the best travel destinations, which is a huge shame since about 53% of the country is forested. Nature lovers and hikers will feel right at home here, where you can spend as little as $35 a day. There are plenty of cheap hostels to be found in any of the various small towns that make up this beautiful country. Additionally, because the towns are so small and the distance between them is relatively short, you can travel by bicycle, minimizing transportation costs and leaving you more money to spend on more exciting enterprises.
If you're looking for a holiday filled with beautiful views, safe surroundings, and delicious culinary options, Estonia may be the place for you.