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100 Cheapest Places to Travel in the World

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Want to find the cheapest places to travel? You’re in the right spot.

Welcome to our annual report on the world’s most affordable travel destinations! We’ve updated our rankings for 2022, and we even have a new number one…but we’ll get to that in a bit!

Finding cheap vacation ideas can be frustrating. Getting the best travel deals typically takes hours of time-consuming research – including comparing hotels,  finding cheap flights , and considering your meal options. And this is  after  you’ve spent weeks researching where to go.

So, we’ve taken the top 100 travel destinations in the world and ranked them according to price. You’re welcome.

Before we get started, though, don’t forget to grab our free travel checklist! It’s a great tool to help you get organized and save money on your next big trip. Just click the button below to get it now. (You’re welcome again!)

Cheapest Places to Travel: Destinations #1-#10

Without further ado, here’s our list of the cheapest places to travel in the world for 2022.

1) Hanoi, Vietnam

Average Cost: $19.75/day

For the first time ever, Hanoi has managed to grab the top spot on our list of cheap places to travel. As the capital of Vietnam, the city is a cultural hub full of museums and important places of interest. The hectic Old Quarter is definitely something you don’t want to miss. Ho Chi Minh’s mausoleum, the Temple of Literature, and Hoan Kiem Lake are also popular spots for tourists.

2) Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Average Cost: $19.83/day

Known as Saigon before the Vietnam War, Ho Chi Minh City is home to a vibrant arts scene and loads of French colonial architecture. Many visitors enjoy spending time in the energetic Ben Thanh Market, where street vendors serve up local flavors at a price that can fit inside anyone’s budget. Those seeking quieter spaces will enjoy wandering through the Cu Chi Tunnels, a network of underground tunnels built by the Viet Cong during the war that span thousands of miles. It’s also worth noting that Ho Chi Minh City ranks in the top 6 cheapest places to travel for food and beverage prices, while it comes in at #2 for the cheapest places to stay.

3) Pattaya, Thailand

Average Cost: $27.51/day

Sure, there are plenty of cultural activities for visitors to enjoy in Pattaya, Thailand. However, what people really come here for is the beach. Situated on the Gulf of Thailand, Pattaya’s is home to some of the most beautiful beaches you’ll find anywhere. The area is also famous for its lively nightlife and excellent shopping. Best of all, it won’t cost you an arm and a leg to stay here. Pattaya ranks 4th on our list for the cheapest places to stay and 11th in daily food costs.

4) Phuket, Thailand

Average Cost: $28.34/day

Do you love cheap vacation spots that are home to beautiful mountains, lush rainforests, and pristine beaches? Traveling to Phuket, Thailand may be for you. Although some luxury travel options are available, one of the best things about this island is that you don’t have to mortgage the house to stay here. There are plenty of 3 and 4-star accommodations from which to choose. In fact, of all the travel destinations we’ve surveyed, Phuket ranks #1 for cheapest hotel costs. As with other places in Thailand, the nightlife here won’t disappoint you either.

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5) Samui, Thailand

Average Cost: $29.18/day

Samui, Thailand continues the run for Thailand and is also the first of 20 new destinations to make our list. The second largest island in Thailand, Samui (a.k.a. “Ko Samui”) has become a bustling tourist destination. Resorts, bungalows, and private villas, grace the palm-lined beaches. Visitors should also check out the famous Big Buddha statue at Wat Phra Yai Temple.

6) Bangkok, Thailand

Average Cost: $30.06/day

Bangkok ranks as the cheapest place to eat on our survey. That, in combination with its affordable hotels, helps the city land solidly inside our top ten for this year. The relatively high cost of beverages is the only thing keeping it from moving higher. Renowned for its exciting nightlife and entertainment, Bangkok isn’t just a party town. While you’re there, don’t miss out on the city’s amazing religious sites, including the Wat Phra Kaew – the most sacred Buddhist Temple in Thailand. There’s also the Grand Palace, the Wat Arun Temple, and some serious shopping for you to enjoy.

7) Krabi, Thailand

Average Cost: $31.05/day

You know those beautiful photos of the jagged limestone cliffs you see on Instagram? Most of those are pictures of Thailand, and many of them come from Krabi province. Located just across the bay from Phuket, Krabi is a super cheap vacation idea. While it may cost a few bucks to get over there, Krabi ranks in the top 10 for both meals and accomodations. With those types of prices, Krabi has definitely been added to our bucket list!

8) Chiang Mai, Thailand

Average Cost: $31.42/day

Chiang Mai is one of the most interesting places to travel in Thailand, and one of the world’s best bargain vacations. Chiang Mai offers the 5th cheapest food prices and the 9th most affordable accomodations of any destination on our list. Located in the mountains of northern Thailand, the city is home to countless Buddhist temples and sacred religious sites. Nature and wildlife tours are also popular excursions in Chiang Mai.

9) Delhi, India

Average Cost: $36.70/day

Delhi scores high marks for its low prices across the board, which helps keep it in the top 10 on our list of the world’s cheapest places to travel. With an estimated 30.7 million inhabitants living in the metropolitan area, the city is also huge. Delhi is home to a ridiculous amount of important sacred and religious sites. At just 3.5 hours away by car, it’s also a decent starting point to explore the Taj Mahal. Be sure to check out the Chandni Chowk bazaar and the Red Fort as well.

10) Cusco, Peru

Average Cost: $37.24/day

Rounding our top 10 cheapest destinations in the world is Cusco, Peru. A newcomer to our list, Cusco also snags the distinction of being the cheapest place to travel in South America. This mountain town was once the capital of the Incan Empire and has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site . The city features well-preserved archeological sites as well as some great examples of Spanish colonial architecture.

Cheapest Places to Travel: Destinations #11-#20

11) istanbul, turkey.

Average Cost: $41.42/day

For more than 2,000 years, Istanbul has straddled the continents of Europe and Asia, making it one of the most important and culturally rich cities in the world. It is literally the point on the map where east and west collide. Thankfully, it is still one of the cheapest places to visit, too. Prices for hotels, food, and beverages all rank within the top 20 of our list.

12) Antalya, Turkey

Average Cost: $43.93/day

Moving from the city to the beach, Antalya is a Turkish resort city located on the country’s Mediterranean coast. It’s also one of the cheapest vacation spots in the world. Known for its beaches and Old Harbor, the city serves as the gateway to Turkey’s “Turquoise Coast,” named for the beautiful blue waters that are found there. But, beaches aren’t the only thing that Antalya has going for it. The area is home to museums, ancient Roman ruins, and a variety of waterfalls that give Antalya a certain splash appeal.

13) Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt

Average Cost: $46.20/day

Sharm El-Sheik is an Egyptian resort town located on the Siani Peninsula and sits directly on the Red Sea. The inviting sandy beaches and clear waters make this a great spot to kick back and relax. If you’re more adventurous, get up close and personal with a diverse aray of sealife wile enjoying a diving trip to Ras Muhammad National Park. When you’re done, be sure to grab a drink and a bite to eat while strolling along the promenade at Naama Bay.

14) Cairo, Egypt

Average Cost: $46.70/day

If checking out some ancient Egyptian ruins is more your speed, Cairo may be the place for you. Luckily, if you enjoy budget travel, it still ranks as one of the cheapest places to travel in the world. While you’ll want to visit Tahrir Square and several of the city’s museums and mosques, Cario’s biggest tourist attraction is the nearby location of Giza – home of both the Giza Pyramids and the Great Sphinx.

15) Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Average Cost: $47.47/day

Known throughout the world for its incredible beaches and nightlife, Rio de Janeiro is also one of the most affordable places to visit. Lucky for tourists, the pandemic appears to have made things even cheaper. Food prices have dropped in Rio, moving from the middle of the pack pre-pandemic to the top 25 today. Hotels have also gotten cheaper, ranking inside the top 20, while Rio ranks a stellar #9 for beverage prices. In addition to visiting Copacabana and Ipanema beaches, you’ll want to check out the famous “Christ the Redeemer” statue towering over the city from the mountains above. While attending the city’s Carnival festival (the world’s largest) may be on your bucket list, remember that prices during this time of year are significantly more expensive.

16) St. Petersburg, Russia

Average Cost: $48.34/day

Serving as its capital for more than 200 years, St. Petersburg is one of the best places to travel in Russia. The city has a more European feel than other cities in the country, and that goes beyond just the architecture. St. Petersburg is filled with dozens of museums, churches, and historic sites. Prices for hotels in St. Petersburg are also the cheapest of any European city you’ll find on our list. Coming in as the 5th cheapest city for hotels is the main reason St. Petersburg tops our list as the cheapest European city to visit in 2022.

17) Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Average Cost: $50.76/day

Kuala Lumpur is the capital of Malaysia and one of the most visited cities in the world. The city itself is instantly recognizable because of the Petronas Towers – the tallest twin skyscrapers in the world. Although Kuala Lumpur has plenty of notable sites, touring the Batu Caves makes for a great day trip outside the city.

18) Mexico City, Mexico

Average Cost: $52.26/day

Mexico City is one of the largest cities in the world, and – by our numbers – the cheapest place to travel in North America. With world-class museums, incredible architecture, and historical sites, Mexico City is a religious and cultural mecca that deserves a spot on your budget travel destinations list. While you’re there, take a day trip to the famed Aztec temple Teotihuacan – known as the “Pyramid of the Sun.” If you’re traveling with the kids, a stop by Six Flags Mexico may also be in order.

19) Buenos Aires, Argentina

Average Cost: $53.18/day

Continuing it’s rise in both popularity and our rankings, Buenos Aires jumped inside the top 20 on our list of cheapest places to visit. Tourists will find Buenos Aires to be one of South America’s most cosmopolitan areas. While you’re there, be sure to visit the Casa Rosada, Argentina’s famous presidential palace. The Teatro Colon, a 2,500 seat opera house, is also worth a visit.

20) Zhuhai, China

Average Cost: $54.25/day

Neighboring Macau, but significantly less expensive, is the thoroughly modern Chinese city of Zhuhai. While Macau offers more adult-themed entertainment (like casinos), Zhuhai can be considered more family friendly. In addition to golf courses and parks, the Chimelong Ocean Kingdom is one of the most popular attractions here. Thankfully, adults can still take advantage of the sites in nearby Macau but at a fraction of the cost.

Cheapest Places to Travel: Destinations #21-#30

21) lima, peru.

Average Cost: $55.35/day

As the capital of Peru, Lima is the nation’s largest city. Hotel prices in Lima rank inside the top 40. However, food and beverage prices speak to every budget traveler’s heart – ranking 14th and 24th, respectively. While spending time in Lima’s well-preserved town center is enjoyable, taking a trip to the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu is a must while in Peru.

22) Hurghada, Egypt

Average Cost: $55.79/day

Hurghada is the third Egyptian destination to make our top 25 cheapest places to travel. Located on the Red Sea, Hurghada’s sandy beaches occupy roughly 25 miles of coastline. Still, beaches and scuba diving isn’t all the city has to offer. This resort town is also known for its restaurants, nightclub scene, and even it’s old town known as El Dahar.

23) Beijing, China

Average Cost: $59.41/day

For 2022, Beijing moves up 9 spots to #23 on our list of cheap places to travel. Although the city is roughly 3,000 years old, the Chinese capital offers an excellent blend of ancient and modern sites. Inside Beijing, visiting the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square are a must. You should also be sure to make the 1.5 hour drive to the Great Wall of China while you’re there. Don’t miss it.

24) Cancun, Mexico

Average Cost: $59.76/day

Warm weather? Check. Beautiful sandy beaches? Check. Fantastic nightlife? Cancun has it all. Even better, it is one of the cheapest places to travel in North America. While you can find super-cheap hotels, if you want to stay in the hotel zone along the beach (and you definitely do), you’ll end up paying significantly more. Still, that’s right in line with most hotels throughout North America and Europe. Meals here still rank #45 overall, and prices for an adult beverage rank just outside the top 25 of all the destinations listed here. So, if you’re looking for cheap beach vacations, Cancun should be near the top of your list.

>>Related:  Cancun Travel Guide

25) Mecca, Saudi Arabia

Average Cost: $60.43/day

Mecca is the birthplace of the Prophet Muhammad and is Islam’s holiest site. Millions of muslims descend upon the city each year during the Hajj pilgrimage, making their way to the Kaaba – the most sacred shrine in all of Islam. Be aware that only muslims are allowed to enter this sacred city. Non-muslims could be fined or deported for trying to pass through.

26) Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Average Cost: $61.66/day

Located south of Cancun on the Yucatan Peninsula, Playa del Carmen is the crown jewel of Mexico’s Riviera Maya region. Famous for its incredible sandy beaches and thriving coral reefs, this exciting city is more than a simple beach town. Lively 5th Avenue and the city’s close proximity to several Mayan archeologial sites makes Playa del Carmen a great and cheap vacation destination for almost any type of traveler.

>>Related: Playa del Carmen Travel Guide

27) Osaka, Japan

Average Cost: $66.03/day

Osaka may be the 3rd largest city in Japan, but it makes the biggest jump forward on this years’s list – ranking as the 27th cheapest city in the world for 2022. The city is most famous for its popular entertainment district, but it is also packed with museums, a stunning castle, and a family-friendly aquarium. Universal Studios Japan is also located here.

28) Busan, South Korea

Average Cost: $66.85/day

Busan is the second most populous city in South Korea, but don’t believe for a second that it takes a backseat to the capital city of Seoul. Here, you can wander through the bustling international market or go ice skating inside the world’s largest department store. Want to hit the beach? Busan has got that too. Haeundae Beach boasts nearly a mile of beautiful sandy beach while Gwangalli Beach offers a quieter respite from the city (and beautiful views of the evening lightshow at Gwangan Bridge).

29) Prague, Czech Republic

Average Cost: $66.93/day

When searching for affordable European holidays, be sure to put Prague near the top of your list. Why? For starters, it’s one of the cheapest place to travel in Europe, according to our methodology. Known for its cheap beer, affordable hotels, and reasonable meal prices, Prague is a great place to hang out. Sure, there is plenty to see – like visiting the Old Town Square and Prague Castle – but simply soaking up the atmosphere is the city’s main attraction.

30) Marrakech, Morocco

Average Cost: $67.57/day

Located in western Morocco, Marrakech is an important economic and cultural center in North Africa. A former imperial city, one of the most popular things to do here is to tour the palaces and their gardens. Also consider getting lost in the chaotic streets of Medina, the walled medieval city within the city which is designated as an UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located relatively close to both the mountains and the desert, nature and wildlife tours are also popular.

Cheapest Places to Travel: Destinations #31-#40

31) kiev, ukraine.

Average Cost: $68.67/day

Home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Kiev is more than just the capital of Ukraine. It is one of the most important cultural, educational, and industrial hubs in all of Eastern Europe. Packed with beautiful churches and a thriving street art scene, this city will delight art, history, and architecture lovers alike. Although political tensions in the region are currently running extremely high, be sure to put Kiev back on your travel bucket list once the tensions subside.

32) Seoul, South Korea

Average Cost: $69.46/day

South Korea’s largest city, Seoul, is widely considered to be one of the world’s top cultural and economic hubs. Blending ancient cultures and architecture with modern skyscrapers and entertainment, Seoul provides a unique mix of the past meeting the present. In addition to visiting the area’s numerous palaces and temples, be sure to check out the incredible views at nearby Bukhansan National Park.

33) Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Average Cost: $69.49/day

If beautiful beach vacations are more your thing, Punta Cana may be a great fit for you. As one of the cheapest places to travel in the Caribbean, Punta Cana is an attractive option for budget travelers from the United States and Canada. With spectacular sandy beaches, relatively affordable prices, and the incredible turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sean, this place is sure to help you get your relax on.

34) Sapporo, Japan

Average Cost: $69.97/day

Known across the world for its beer, the Japanese mountain city of Sapporo is also one of the world’s most affordable travel destinations. Skiers come for the magnificent slopes while ice scupltors from around the world transform the city into a winter wonderland during the Sapporo Snow Festival. Check out the city’s fantastic museums, catch a game at the Sapporo Dome, and sample a local dish called “kegani” (hairy crab) while you’re there!

35) Budapest, Hungary

Average Cost: $70.96/day

Central and Eastern Europe are full of cheap vacation ideas, and Hungary is one of the cheapest countries to visit. Budapest, the nation’s largest city and capital, is a delight for tourists – both for its sightseeing and the fact that it’s easy on their pocketbook. While food, hotel, and beverage prices are some of the cheapest you’ll find in all of Europe, taking a short cruise through town on the Danube River is something you’ll never forget.

36) Fukuoka, Japan

Average Cost: $72.22/day

Situated on the northern coast of Kyushu Island, Fukuoka, Japan is known for more than just its beaches. It is a popular destination for shopping, boasting the enormous Canal City Hakata shopping center. You’ll also want to explore Fukuoka’s historic ancient temples and check out the view from the Fukuoka Tower observation deck – Japan’s tallest seaside tower.

37) Taipei, Taiwan

Average Cost: $72.64/day

Taipei, Taiwan ranks as the 37th cheapest city in the world for 2022. With incredible night markets and tons of street food, Taipei is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world. The city is also home to a host of temples and museums for tourists to enjoy. Elephant Mountain and Yangmingshan National Park make for great day trips from the city.

38) Moscow, Russia

Average Cost: $74.87/day

Speaking of cheap places to travel, in terms of value, Russia’s capital city is one of the best places to visit in Europe. While you’ll definitely want to spend time visiting the Red Square and the Kremlin, Moscow is also a major cultural hub. Wander around the city’s cadre of art and history museums before catching a performance from the Bolshoi Ballet.

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39) Macau, Macau

Average Cost: $75.74/day

Like its neighbor Hong Kong, Macau is an autonomous region of China located on the country’s south coast. As a former Portuguese territory, the area features a mix of cultural influences and tastes. The area is also home to several mega casinos, earning the nickname the “Las Vegas of China.” Unlike other areas known for their showy nature, food and hotel prices in Macau rank relatively affordable on our list. However, prices for adult beverages are more in line with what you’d find in Western Europe and North America.

40) Porto, Portugal

Average Cost: $77.20/day

Slipping barely inside the top 40 of our cheapest places to travel list is Porto, Portugal. Located on Portugal’s northwestern coast, this city is known for its majestic bridges, cobbled streets, and port wine. While prices for accommodations and meals are some of the best you’ll find in Western Europe, beverage prices rank as some of the cheapest in the world. Porto ranks a solid 31st overall in the beverage category. We’ll drink to that!

Cheapest Places to Travel: Destinations #41-#50

41) tokyo, japan.

Average Cost: $77.56/day

Tokyo is another ultra-modern city that finds itself on our list. Although finding cheap places to travel in Asia is pretty easy, Tokyo ranks among the most expensive in the region. Still, Japan’s largest city is relatively affordable compared to many places in Europe and North America. With that said, Tokyo is one of the world’s hottest tourist destinations, ranking 15th overall on Euromonitor’s Top City Destinations Index for last year.

42) Johannesburg, South Africa

Average Cost: $78.27/day

Johannesburg is the largest city in South Africa and ranks as the #42 cheapest travel destination in the world for 2022. Beverage prices rank in the top 25%, but hotel and meal prices helped push the city further down the list (39th for accommodations, 56th in restaurant costs). Popular things to do in Johannesburg include visiting the Apartheid Museum, checking out the “Cradle of Humankind” UNESCO World Heritage Site, and enjoying nature safaris.

43) Sharjah, United Arab Emirates

Average Cost: $79.06/day

Located in the UAE, Sharjah is a popular and affordable travel destination which sits on the shores of the Persian Gulf. Families love the fun-filled theme parks and aquarium. Architecture lovers and religious travelers enjoy the Al Noor Mosque and the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization. Of course, the bustling waterfront attracts travelers of all types.

44) Heraklion, Greece

Average Cost: $80.26/day

Located on the island of Crete, Heraklion is a popular resort area in Greece. Heraklion remains a relatively cheap vacation spot in Europe, coming in at #44 overall. While families may come to enjoy a beach vacation, they can also soak up some of the area’s remarkable museums and ancient ruins. Just a few minutes from the city, tourists will find the ancient archaeological site of Knossos, believed to be Europe’s oldest city.

45) Krakow, Poland

Average Cost: $80.66/day

Cracking the top half in two of our three categories, Krakow lands at #45 on our list of the cheapest places to travel in the world. The city is famous for its medieval town center, which is remarkably well preserved considering all of the political turmoil this country has faced throughout history. Wandering through the large Jewish quarter is also a must. Located within close proximity to Auschwitz-Birkenau, Krakow also makes a good home base for a journey there.

46) Athens, Greece

Average Cost: $82.07/day

In my opinion, a trip to Greece represents one of the best value vacations in all of Europe. Although some tell you to hit the highlights in Athens and leave quickly, I disagree. The birthplace of western culture, Athens is an incredibly unique city, filled with some of the most amazing historical and cultural sites you’ll find anywhere. Sure, you’ll want to head out into the Greek countryside, but the gritty, lively streets of Athens are something you should consider taking a few days to enjoy.

47) Cape Town, South Africa

Average Cost: $82.45/day

The second largest city in South Africa, Cape Town is another newcomer to our list. This naturally beautiful seaside city is filled with fun things to do. It also serves as the home of South Africa’s parliament. Be sure to check out the various beaches, check out the Bo-kaap neighborhood, and ride the cable car to the top of Table Mountain for some breathtaking views.

48) Kyoto, Japan

Average Cost: $85.81/day

Once the capital of the Japanese empire, Kyoto is now one of Japan’s best places to travel. Famous for its traditional wooden houses, buddhist temples, and imperial palaces, the city also provides beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. While you’re there, be sure to enjoy a kaiseki dinner and a geisha show.

4 9) Guangzhou, China

Average Cost: $86.94/day

Located just to the northwest of Hong Kong and Shenzhen is Guangzhou, China. Like its neighbors, Guangzhou is a popular destination for tourists of all stripes. Adventure seekers may wish to go bungee jumping at nearby Baiyun Mountain. The Chimelong Safari Park and Chimelong International Circus tend to be popular for families traveling with children.

50) Medina, Saudi Arabia

Average Cost: $86.98/day

Located in western Saudi Arabia, Medina is an extremely popular destination for pilgrims. Inside the city, you’ll find the Al-Masjid an-Nabawi mosque. The mosque was originally built by the Prophet Muhammad in the year 622 and is considered to be the second-holiest site in Islam – containing the tomb of the the Prophet Muhammad himself. Medina is also home to another important mosque, Masjid al-Qiblatain. After the Prophet Muhammad received the revelation to change the direction of prayer, it was here that Muslims first began to pray toward Mecca instead of Jerusalem.

Cheapest Places to Travel 2022: Complete Results

Our methodology.

Let me assure you, we haven’t taken this project lightly.

To accurately measure the cost of each location, we’ve created a methodology which ensures that each destination stands on relatively equal footing. So, as we’ve done in the past, we have focused our efforts on factors that were universal, controllable, and useful.

First, we had to decide which destinations to include. Although Brookings, South Dakota may be a cheap place to travel for fellow South Dakotans, how many people actually visit Brookings each year? How useful is that to the vast majority of people?

For that reason, we have limited inclusion on our list to the cities which appear on Euromonitor International’s  Top 100 City Destinations Index  for 2021. The index ranks international travel destinations accross 6 key metrics – including Economic & Business Performance, Tourism Perfomrance, Tourism Policy & Attractiveness, Tourism Infrastructure, Health and Safety, and Sustainability. It also replaces Euromonitor’s now defunct Top 100 City Destinations Report – which is what we have used in the past to determine which cities make our list.

Since everybody’s travel style is different, we also must determine which factors best represent the overall cost of a destination. Average food and beverage costs are an important factor in our rankings, as we feel they are indicative of an area’s overall affordability.

Using numbers from  Numbeo , our food and entertainment numbers are based on the average cost of a meal at an “inexpensive” restaurant (3 per day) and the average cost of a domestic beer (3 per day). We have added an extra 10% to both, just to be on the safe side.

Prices for accommodations are also a major factor in our rankings. Clearly, one’s travel preferences will affect the amount it costs to stay in a certain area. For instance,  overwater bungalows , no matter how affordable, are going to cost a heck of a lot more than a standard hotel room.

Additionally, because rates change based on occupancy and the time of year in which they are booked, it is important to find a consistent way in which to apply our methodology. Therefore, our numbers are based on a midweek stay during the “low season” in each destination – averaging the 5 cheapest 3-star options for accommodations during that time. We have also ensured that the accommodations are located within the most popular tourist areas of the city.

To help you put this all together, here’s a quick breakdown of our methodology:

• Must be listed in Euromonitor International’s Top 100 City Destinations Index
• 3-star+ accommodations
• “Low season” pricing
• Located within popular tourist area
• Midweek stay
• Double occupancy
• Plus 10% for accuracy

Known Issues with Our Methodology

This isn’t to say that our methodology is perfect.

As with any study, our rankings are only as accurate as the data we’ve collected. While we’re confident in our sources, there is certainly some room for error. However, the results tend to correlate with what most experienced travelers would expect.

Of course, there are some really cheap places to travel that didn’t make the list because – well – they don’t qualify. For instance, Sofia, Bulgaria and Bucharest, Romania are widely considered some of Europe’s most affordable travel destinations. However, they didn’t meet the standard of the number of visitors needed to make our report.

This year, in particular, sees a big change in some of the destinations that made our list. In the past, we have used Euromonitor’s Top 100 City Destinations Report to determine the 100 cities on our list. This report ranked cities based entirely on international arrivals. With Euromonitor replacing the report with their Top 100 City Destinations Index (which ranks destinations on a number of factors outside of simply arrivals), this has caused a reshuffling of which cities we’ve included on our list.

For example, since the last time we published our list, 12 of the cheapest 20 cities are no longer included because they did not qualify for Euromonitor’s Top 100 City Destinations Index. That is a huge shift.

Although this may seem unfair, many of these cities represented a redundancy of cheap tourist areas. The 12 cities no longer listed are located in just 5 different countires. All but one of those countries is still represented by other cities in the top 20 cheapest places to visit.

Additionally, the new index allows for a broader representation of cheap travel destinations across the world. In our last survey, all of the top 20 cheapest places to visit were located in Asia and Oceania. While these areas still dominate the top spots, at least one city from every region of the world now cracks the top 20.

Moving on, one of the biggest expenses for any vacation is transportation. This is an extremely difficult metric to gauge. Flight costs vary wildly depending on where you’re flying to and from. Because we couldn’t find a consistent way to apply airfares across the globe, we decided to leave them out entirely.

For that reason, some of the cheapest places to travel may not be as affordable for  you . For example, flights from New York City to most Asian destinations can cost 2 or 3 times as much as flights to Europe. Keep this in mind before settling on a destination for your next vacation.

Since it’s nearly impossible to predict transportation costs from around the world, our list represents a metric of what you can expect to spend once you arrive.

Final Thoughts on Cheap Travel Destinations

If you’re a  veteran of budget travel , the results of our study shouldn’t shock you.

As expected, the cheapest countries in the world are found mostly in Asia. However, while travel destinations throught Asia dominate the top spots on our list, our new criteria has opened the door for places around the world to climb in our rankings.

Several affordable destinations in South America, Africa, and the Middle East now grace our list. And, although travel destinations in Europe and North America are generally the most expensive places to visit, our updated criteria even allows a few cities from these regions to sneak into our top 20.

Keep in mind, however, that comparing the best travel destinations by price is extremely relative. When searching for cheap places to travel, numerous factors come into play – including your proximity to the destination and the time of year you plan to visit. Seemingly cheap vacation spots can quickly turn into budget busters if you don’t account for every expense.

We hope you’ve enjoyed our list of the cheapst places to travel in the world. Thanks so much for reading and happy traveling!

Are any of these cheap travel destinations in your budget travel plans? Let us know in the comments below!

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Greg Johnson is the co-founder of Club Thrifty and an expert in personal finance, family travel, and credit card rewards. His work and commentary have been featured in publications like Newsweek , Kiplinger’s Personal Finance , Dough Roller , CreditCardReviews.com , and more. He also works as a freelance personal finance editor at Bankrate.com.

Greg travels the world for about 20 weeks each year and has visited over 40 countries. He holds two bachelor's degrees, is the co-author of the book Zero Down Your Debt , and owns his own independent travel agency. Learn more about Greg here.

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22 Comments

This list is great for any budget traveler and it provides enough destinations for anyone looking to include new places on their bucket list. I’m glad to see that Romania is also included, especially because it’s one of the most affordable European travel destinations.

I love all of these destinations. I will include most of them in my travel plans. Please consider Montreal, Canada. It’s gorgeous and affordable, especially for US citizens. Also, Iceland is more and more popular. It has the most beautiful landscapes in the world. Finally, for non-US citizens, Habana Cuba it affordable, happy, and beautiful.

San Francisco is a really good place for fun where I stay for two days. I had a blast of fun at this most amazing and alluring destination and came back with a lot of pleasant memories. Truly your shared all these places are the best for travelling and you can comfortable stay with family and kids at reasonable prices.

San Francisco doesn’t qualify for cheap in any category..

What a great list you have here and the details are very informative. A trip to Europe seems everything but cheap, thanks for including some great destinations.

Great list! City travels are really cheaper than any other kind of travel. Thanks for posting this.

London, Italy and Thailand are definitely on my top 3 bucket list. Although Scotland wasn’t on this list, I heard their castles are great for sight seeing.

Will include some of these travel destinations in my travel list! Thanks for this.

Wow, awesome list of places! I can’t even decide which I should visit first.

I know, right?!? Thanks for reading!

Thanks for this great post, i enjoyed reading it. But: unbelievable that u left out the whole philippines!

Thanks for reading! Yes, the Philippines is certainly a cheap place to travel, but there isn’t a spot there that makes the top 100 most visited destinations in the world. So, it didn’t quite make the list 🙂

Hey, thank you so much bud! this is what I exactly needed couldn’t figure it out at first where should I trip this year after reading the whole blog now I have some in my bucket list, keep it up thanks for sharing such wonderful article across the internet.

Hi Greg, I have been to 5 of your top 10 but nothing is as cheap as GOA, India. I have visited GOA 8 times and the affordability is unbelievable. Would suggest these places in Goa if you are looking out for specifics. Trust me these places have wonderful food and most affordable accommodation, restaurants and beer. Listed down a few for your reference: calangute, baga, condolem, Palolem, Anjuna, colva and vegator.

I’ve already checked out up to ten items from this list. Lviv is probably the most memorable. This year I’m travelling to Porto with my girls. We’re really excited about cheap beverages. Thanks for the article, makes it easier to choose my next 90 destinations.

Fantastic! Glad you enjoyed it and happy traveling!

This is a fine list of bucketlist destinations, but you lost me on the budget/cheap angle when you mentioned taking “a sunset cruise, and maybe try a helicopter ride over the active volcanoes” in Hawaii.

I’ll definitely be getting myself to India though. So many incredible places to explore there.

Hey Man! Where is Cox’s Bazar? It’s a beautiful and longest sea beach in the world. You should include it in your article.

Where is the Philippines? El nido, Coron, Port Barton, Cebu etc. Any of those destination can make the top 10 cheapest.

Hey !! Thanks ,its really informative. Just tripped over this and I love the info. Well done! I’m a “young” active 65 year old looking to start traveling alone to places more intriguing than Paris or Rome( which I love ,but…)

I have always had a penchant for travel and have visited a number of countries throughout my life. This year, I decided to take a trip to a country that I had never been to before- this has been the cheapest country where I have ever visited. After much deliberation, I opted for the Central African Republic (CAR). I researched the country extensively before deciding to make the trip, and found that there were a number of reasons why this was the perfect country for me. First and foremost, it is one of the least developed countries in the world, which means that there are a lot of opportunities for tourism. Second, it is a country with a rich historical heritage, which I was interested in learning more about. Third, it is a safe country, which is important to me as a traveler. Finally, it is a country with a large variety of landscapes, which I knew I would enjoy.

Awesome travel guide on the internet, I’m feeling more confidence after reading the article.

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Budget trips: 20 of the cheapest places to travel

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That ever-growing travel wish list might be putting pressure on your pocket – but there are plenty of destinations where you'll get more bang for your buck. From Greece to Guatemala , here are 20 of the cheapest places to travel.

1. Thailand — for fantastic local food and more

2. south africa for safari adventures at an incredible value, 3. vietnam for an affordable country with a lot to offer, 4. uruguay — for a budget destination with beaches, 5. cuba: a cheap destination with very few tourists.

• 6. Prague, Czech Republic — one of Europe's most affordable destinations

7. Greece for popular tourist destinations on a budget

8. guatemala: one of the cheapest countries to learn spanish, 9. bulgaria for an underrated tourist destination, 10. india: an all-time favourite for budget travellers, 11. portugal for a cheap country in western europe, 12. bolivia for natural beauty on a budget, 13. mexico: one of the cheapest places to travel, 14. new orleans — one of the cheapest major cities in the usa, 15. laos for national parks and more, 16. the gambia for a cheap destination with nature, 17. shanghai, china for delicious street food, 18. save money in istanbul, turkey, 19. london — for free things to do in a capital city, 20. egypt for one of the most memorable cheap travel destinations, plan your perfect trip.

This article is inspired by our Rough Guide to Europe on a Budget — your essential guide to making the most of this great region without breaking the bank. You might also want to discover how to explore the world's most expensive city without breaking the bank — find out how to visit Tel Aviv on a budget .

Tailor-made travel itineraries for Greece, created by local experts

10 days  / from 2657 USD

The Historical and Mythological Cyclades islands

The Cyclades islands include two of the most famous Greek Islands: Mykonos and Santorini. Visit these and some of the smaller, quieter, islands. With white washed houses, narrow cobbled streets, blue domed roofs and stunning beaches, they are what Greece is all about.

9 days  / from 2246 USD

A secluded villa stay on Mainland Greece

Stay in a secluded private villa with magnificent views to the sea and explore this beautiful corner of Mainland Greece with your own rental car. Under the impressive Mt Taygetos in Southern Peloponnese, the region of Mani will give you a snapshot of authentic Greece.

10 days  / from 2030 USD

Along the Coast of Crete: from Heraklion to Platanias

As Greece's largest island, Crete's culture and atmosphere is distinctly different from mainland Greece. Thousands of years of unique culture and rich history complement the island's untamed natural beauty. Explore Crete at your own pace with this unique self-drive trip!

There’s a reason why Thailand remains so popular with backpackers. It’s got idyllic islands , a rich culture, beach huts aplenty, tantalising local food and adventures galore , and all are available at often staggeringly low prices.

Despite the well-trodden routes through the country, it’s not hard to get away from the crowds. Check out Nakhon Si Thammarat for some of the very best food the country has to offer or hire a motorbike to make the 600km trip along the Mae Hong Son Loop through the forested northern mountains. See why Thailand made our list of the best places to travel alone.

Find budget places to stay in Thailand

The Great Holy Relics Pagoda Nabhapolbhumisiri, Chiang Mai, Thailand - still one of the cheapest places to travel © Shutterstock

One of the great things about travelling in South Africa next to the beautiful landscapes is that it’s possible to have a safari experience here – complete with the Big Five – without encountering a budget-breaking bill. Head to Hluhluwe-Imfolozi to see a white rhino and avoid the crowds of Kruger .

Head to the Drakensberg for superlative hiking. Don’t forget to factor in at least a few days in the amazing Cape Town or Johannesburg to experience the nightlife in South Africa .

Start planning your trip with the best time to visit South Africa and our collection of the best South Africa itineraries .

Find budget places to stay in South Africa

Cape Town — popular with budget travellers © Mark Van Overmeire/Shutterstock

Vietnam is one of the best and cheapest places to travel. The country’s greatest attraction is its sublime countryside, from the limestone karsts of the north to the waterways and paddy fields of the Mekong Delta , with blissful beaches and frenetic cities crammed in between - see our reader's vote for the most beautiful places in Vietnam .

Then there’s the cuisine – pull up a stool at a pho stall and for just a few dollars you’ll eat some of the best food on offer, shoulder to shoulder with the locals. Check out our 9 tips for backpacking Vietnam and the best time to visit Vietnam , plus discover how to get off the tourist trail before you go.

Street Pho - Vietnam street food options make it a great cheap place to travel © JNEZAM/Shutterstock

If you’ve already visited Brazil and Argentina , or are just looking for a better value destination in South America, head instead to neighbouring Uruguay. You’ll be relieved to hear you can still find excellent steak here and some amazing restaurants .

Plus, there are plenty of lovely beaches to choose from – head to Cabo Polonio for quieter sands and abundant wildlife – and the gorgeous old capital of Montevideo. Want to learn more? You'll find all the information you need to plan a budget trip in our Rough Guide to South America on a Budget .

Find budget places to stay in Uruguay

Uruguay. Punta del Este - a great place to go on a tight travel budget © Chaykovsky Igor/Shutterstock

Related articles from the blog

Since relations between Cuba and the US started rapidly warming up, there's never been a better time to visit this Caribbean island. Go now before it changes beyond recognition – and before the prices start to go up and up even more.

Hit the salsa clubs of Havana , get caught up in the heady July carnival of Santiago, or dip your toes in the warm Caribbean at one of the picture-perfect beaches in Cuba – whatever you do, you’ll find it hard not to leave utterly intoxicated.

Get started with these 12 tips for backpacking Cuba , the best places to go on your first trip to Cuba and the best time to visit Cuba .

Cuba is a great place for cheap travel © Pixabay

6. Prague, Czech Republic — one of Europe's most affordable destinations

Despite being firmly on the tourist – not to mention bachelor party – trail these days, Prague still remains one of Europe’s cheapest capital cities to visit. For just a few Czech Crowns you can enjoy a hearty meal of Czech food , washed down with decent local Czech beer (of course).

The city itself is a beauty, crammed full of history and perfect for leisurely explorations by foot - check here to see how to avoid the crowds in Prague , and a great train travel itinerary starting in Prague. Want to explore more of Europe on the cheap? Check out The Rough Guide to Europe on a Budget .

• For Baroque touches with a view : Questenberk
• For gardens and views: Golden Well Hotel
• For budget stays : Adeba Hotel

Find places to stay on a budget in Prague .

Save money when travelling to Prague © Shutterstock

Greece has been having a tough time economically in the past few years. It finally started trading on financial markets in mid-2018 after years of bailouts, but for many, making ends meet day-to-day is still hard.

If anything, the financial situation is all the more reason to travel here and to support the local people. Prices are still cheaper than they once were, so you might be able to squeeze an extra Greek island or one of the beautiful beaches into your itinerary.

Pay by credit card for whatever you can in advance, but take enough cash with you for your travels, and you’re pretty much guaranteed an amazing trip. Read our indispensable travel tips for Greece by Nick Edwards, co-author of The Rough Guide to Greece , before you go - and of course, the best Greek food you need to try.

Find budget places to stay in Greece

Greece — one of the best budget destinations © Anastasios71/Shutterstock

It’s hard not to fall under the spell of Guatemala and its compelling mix of natural beauty, Mayan traditions and colonial legacies. Rock-bottom prices make this one of the best places to study Spanish.

Once your linguistic skills are up to scratch, jump onto one of the country’s famous camionetas or “chicken buses” to explore. Soak up the sights of graceful Antigua in the south of the country, explore Guatemala City or be wowed by the monumental Maya temples of Tikal .

For planning your trip , check out the best time to travel to Guatemala . It's also easy to extend your trip to see more of Central America, too.

Find budget places to stay in Guatemala

Guatemala for affordable accommodation and more © Shutterstock

Often unfairly overlooked, Bulgaria has a lot to offer budget travellers – not least some of the most deserted beaches in Europe, at bargain prices. In addition to its appealing coastline, there are also lots of lovely old towns.

One of the best and cheapest places to travel is Varna on the coast. Or the ancient Plovdiv — which made our Rough Guide list of the Best Places to Travel this year. Bulgaria also boasts a number of dramatic mountain ranges that are perfect for exploration on foot or by bike.

Find budget places to stay in Bulgaria

The underrated country of Bulgaria © Aleksandar Todorovic/Shutterstock

India is such a vast country and remains one of the ultimate destinations among the cheapest places to travel. There are few countries where you can still travel so extensively and eat so well for so little.

If you’re after a beach break, eschew Goa for the gorgeous beaches of the temple town of Gokarna. For amazing food, it’s hard to beat the puris and kebabs of Mumbai’s street stalls or head to the Golden City of Jaisalmer from where you can explore the seemingly endless sands of the Thar Desert. Need more inspiration? Check out our favourite places off the tourist trail .

Varanasi, India © Shutterstock

Portugal remains one of the best bargains in Western Europe and is especially worth considering if you want to avoid the more crowded resorts and cities of Spain. Skip the Algarve for the ruggedly beautiful Alentejo coast (with its cheap, fresh seafood) and vibrant, uber-cool Lisbon. If you're not sure where to start, read our top tips for travelling in Portugal and discover the best of Lisbon's food scene .

Find budget places to stay in Portugal

Portugal is arguably the cheapest country in Western Europe © Shutterstock

One of the cheapest places to travel in South America, Bolivia is also one of its most misunderstood . Travelling here may be a little uncomfortable at times, but it’s more than worth it for the wealth of amazing sights on offer.

Top of the list is undoubtedly the astounding Salar de Uyuni salt flats, a two or three-day tour of which will usually set you back less than £100/$150. Plan your trip with The Rough Guide to South America on a Budget , and be sure to try at least some of these best things to do in Bolivia .

Find budget places to stay in Bolivia

Salar de Uyuni - Bolivia is one of the cheapest places to travel in South America © Shutterstock

Your budget will definitely stretch to tacos and tequila aplenty in Mexico – which is great news as there’s a lot of ground to cover in this vibrant country.

Whether you want to string your hammock up along dazzling white sands, sample some of the country’s best street food in Oaxaca or cool off in a crystal-clear cenote (sunken swimming hole), the country will leave you eager to come back for more. To kick-start your wanderlust, these are 12 of our favourite places to visit in Mexico .

Find budget places to stay in Mexico

Zipolite beach, Oaxaca, Mexico © Shutterstock

You can’t escape from music in New Orleans – and with buskers on what often seems like every corner, and music in every courtyard and bar, it’s not hard to experience the city’s musical heritage without spending much more than the price of a beer.

The city is best experienced slowly, and on foot; it’s hard to beat people-watching over a cup of coffee and a plate of sugar-dusted beignets at the Café du Monde. Find out where to sample the city's top cocktails with our best bar guide .

Where to stay in New Orleans

• For a budget-conscious alternative: Hotel Provincial
• For classic New Orleans charm: Wyndham New Orleans French Quarter

Find budget places to stay in New Orleans

Bourbon St, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA © Sean Pavone/Shutterstock

Even in a region of the cheapest places to travel, Laos stands out. It’s hard not to be captivated by the slow pace of the country.

Head just north of elegant Luang Prabang to riverside Nong Khiaw, where for a small change you can bag a waterside bungalow and watch the boats travel up and down the karst-surrounded river over a cold bottle of Beer Lao. Get the full lowdown on this enchanting and unspoiled corner of Southeast Asia with The Rough Guide to Laos . And to better prepare for your upcoming trip to Laos read the Laos travel tips we've collected.

Find budget places to stay in Laos

Laos is famous for its national parks and more © akedesign/Shutterstock

Africa’s smallest country is already known for its beautiful beaches, but it’s well worth venturing beyond them to experience its other delights . Top of the list has to be the Chimp Rehabilitation Centre in the River Gambia National Park, where you can watch the primates in their natural habitat.

For birdlife, Baobolong Wetland Reserve is arguably the best place for ornithology on the continent and is at its most atmospheric at sunset. Read on for 8 off-the-beaten-track experiences in the Gambia.

Find budget places to stay in The Gambia

Gambia is Africa's smallest country © Dave Montreuil/Shutterstock

The biggest appeal for budget – if not all travellers – to Shanghai is undoubtedly the abundance of amazing street food on offer, from xiao long bao soup dumplings to scallion pancakes and sticky rice parcels ( zongzi ).

It’s still possible to find an accommodation bargain at the lower end of the scale, and much of the city’s appeal lies in exploring its busy streets on foot and experiencing for yourself the juxtaposition between old and new China. You'll find recommendations for where to find the city's best street eats and budget sleeps in The Rough Guide to Shanghai .

Find budget places to stay in Shanghai

Shanghai for street food and more © Shutterstock

With one foot in Europe and the other in Asia, Istanbul is undeniably alluring. Though seeing all the major sights – the Aya Sofya, Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace to name but a few – can quickly eat into your lira, the city can still be great for tighter budgets.

Arguably the best ways to really soak up the city are from a Bosphorus ferry, wandering the streets of the Grand Bazaar or on a streetside terrace with a freshly-cooked kebab - read up our Turkish food guide before you go.

Where to stay in Istanbul

• For views: Hotel Poem
• For B&B: Mest Hotel Istanbul Sirkeci
• For location: Boutique Saint Sophia

Find budget places to stay in Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey © Shutterstock

First things first – we know London is not cheap. There’s no denying that even staying in hostels, using public transport and eating in cafés is going to massively eat into your budget.

But – and it’s a big but – there are few places in the world that can rival the capital city for its plethora of free sights, where you can see the Rosetta Stone and the Lindow Man, works by Monet and Dalí, not to mention dinosaur and blue whale skeletons, for absolutely nothing. Get off on the right foot by choosing the right area to stay .

Find budget places to stay in London

Hampstead Heath during the summer months in London © Chris Seddon/Shutterstock

Considering the abundance of mind-blowing ancient sights, you’d expect travel to Egypt to cost a lot more than it does. Sure, if you tick off all the major attractions – including the Pyramids, the Valley of the Kings and Abu Simbel – then costs are going to creep up, but tempered with cheap (and excellent) food and decent budget accommodation, it’s not hard to feel like you’re almost able to live like a Pharaoh.

Note, that due to safety concerns some governments currently advise against travel to certain parts of the country; check the latest advice before you go.

Find budget places to stay in Egypt

Egypt is a fantastic travel destination © Shutterstock

Want to travel without the hassle of planning and booking? Our local experts can plan wonderful trips for you to anywhere you have been dreaming of travelling. Simply get in touch when you would like to travel. We will then create a personalized itinerary, which you can amend until you are totally happy with every detail of the booking. All of our planned itineraries can be tailored to meet your specific needs.

Inspired to take a trip to Europe? Don't miss our Rough Guide to Europe on a Budget for more tips on making the most of this great region without breaking the bank.

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21 Cheap Places to Travel in 2024

By Caitlin Morton

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

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There are many factors to consider when planning a vacation, from finding cheap places to travel and the safety of your intended destination to hotel options . But like it or not, there’s one thing that influences our travel decisions more than anything else: money. All those resort fees, plane tickets , and life-changing meals add up pretty quickly—so at the end of the day, we really want to prioritize places where our greenbacks have the most spending power.

We did a little digging to find the countries where the U.S. dollar goes the furthest, based on current exchange rates. And while our fickle global economy means those rates can change at any time, certain places have consistently offered more bang for our buck over the years—and, fingers crossed, they should stay that way well into 2024 .

Without further ado, here are 21 of the best cheap places to travel around the world.

Budapest, Hungary

1 USD = 351.21 HUF

Hungary’s favorable economy is great news for anyone planning a trip to Budapest , where a growing scene of Michelin-starred restaurants and high-tech spas are calling to us from across the globe. The city just celebrated its 150th anniversary in November 2023, which means there are even more reasons to visit during the next calendar year, including the newly reopened Chain Bridge and the brand-new House of Music Hungary . Be sure to book a room at the art deco W Budapest —formerly a palace and on a UNESCO World Heritage-listed street—which opened in July 2023 opposite the Hungarian State Opera.

South Korea

1 USD = 1,301.45 KRW

While other travelers head to the popular tourist destinations of Seoul , Busan, and Jeju Island, we have our eyes set on another South Korean city:  Mokpo , located in the Jeolla region at the southern tip of the peninsula. The port city offers some of the most interesting dining in the country, and specialty dishes like  hongeo (a naturally fermented, extremely pungent skate-fish dish) attract food lovers from around the world.

1 USD = 17.22 MXN

Mexico is consistently one of our favorite places to travel on a budget. In Mexico City , with a street food culture rivaled only by its forward-looking restaurant scene, you’ll be spending most of your money on eats. But make sure to leave some bucks to visit all the cultural wonders the city has to offer, starting with the iconic Museo Jumex . If you’re looking to go a little farther afield, head to Jalisco to see tequila being made at the source, or Isla Holbox for a sleepy beach scene.

An eagle hunter riding near the Altai Mountains in Mongolia.

1 USD = 3,449.69 MNT

We’ve long been fans of Mongolia for its seemingly limitless expanses and adventure camps—and the fact that travel here costs as little as $75 per day (including accommodations). The country is on a mission to lure even more travelers into its borders in 2024, with upcoming initiatives like its first-ever direct US flight and visa-free travel for dozens of nationalities. You can also expect even more offbeat cultural experiences next year: Local operator Breanna Wilson is expanding her 2024 tours to include a digital nomad week, a women-only retreat in Orkhon Valley, and a three-day archery training session.

1 USD = 24,275.00 VND

Plenty of countries in Southeast Asia are great deals for dollar carriers right now, but we recommend a trip to Vietnam—in part because of the steadily increasing exchange rate, but mostly for the country’s mind-blowing beauty. Hanoi is arguably the most romantic city in the region, but don’t be afraid to venture off the beaten track during your next visit: Places like  Ninh Van Bay and Phú Quốc island have pristine beaches and intimate resorts you won’t find in the more touristed areas.

1 USD = 4.94 BRL

Caitlin Morton

Jessica Puckett

Jamie Spain

Meaghan Kenny

Like much of South America, Brazil is a good place to visit if you don’t want to break the bank. But the fact that a dollar gets you nearly five Brazilian reals means you can get even better value than usual. Rio de Janeiro is the most obvious place to spend time and money, with incredible restaurants—like  Lasai , a 2023 Hot List winner—just steps away from some of the world’s  best beaches . But don't forget to visit  São Paulo , too, where a younger generation has introduced hip galleries, museums, and bars to several long-neglected neighborhoods.

South Africa

1 USD = 18.30 ZAR

The value of the South African rand has fluctuated a lot over the past few years, but we’re pretty happy with where it is today. (To compare, one U.S. dollar only got you 8.57 ZAR 10 years ago.) Stretch those bucks on the  Test Kitchen ’s 21-course tasting menu in Cape Town , then head into the wilderness at  Singita Castleton Lodge in the Sabi Sand game reserve.

Traditional stilt fishermen in Sri Lanka

1 USD = 327.31 SLR

The Sri Lankan rupee has slowly gotten more and more favorable over the past couple of decades, but it completely skyrocketed starting a couple of years ago (a dollar converted to 200 SLR in February 2022, and now look where we are). We’re more excited than ever to explore this incredible island nation, where you can see leafy tea plantations, Buddhist temples, golden beaches, and 200-mile hiking trails in one memorable trip.

1 USD = 525.96 CRC

The Costa Rican colón has depreciated a bit in recent months, but it remains favorable for US travelers. Then there’s the fact that the country’s best asset (i.e. its natural beauty) is mostly free to enjoy. From trekking through the tropical cloud forests in the mountains of Alajuela to surfing off the coast of Peninsula Papagayo, Costa Rica is one of the world’s best countries for outdoor adventure. (And the  hotels are pretty great , too.)

Philippines

1 USD = 55.89 PHP

We’re never not dreaming about island hopping in the Phillippines. It’s hard to believe that places like Palawan and Siargao are so economically accessible, given that they are some of the most beautiful places on the planet. Even five-star resorts like  Shangri-La Boracay can be reserved for under $350 per night, which is all the incentive we need to book a trip right now.

1 USD = 4,580 MGA

For your next tropical island vacation, skip pricey, popular locations like the Maldives and Bora Bora for inexpensive Madagascar—an Indian Ocean treasure filled with breathtaking rainforests and lemur-filled national parks. Plan your visit around the opening of Namoroka Tsingy Exploration Camp ( scheduled for mid-2024 ), which will feature seven luxury safari tents inside the essentially unvisited Namoroka National Park. Alternately, swing by the island nation as part of a cruise itinerary: Luxe cruise lines like Silversea , Lindblad , Swan Hellenic , and Seabourne have all added the country as a port of call on new voyages.

Cairo, Egypt.

1 USD = 30.93 EGP

Following in the footsteps of pharaohs in Egypt feels like it should be expensive, but the Egyptian pound has skyrocketed this year—that means touring the Pyramids, cruising the Nile, and exploring Cairo has never been more affordable. We’re excited to check out relatively new openings, like St. Regis Cairo and the beach villas at Four Seasons Hotel Alexandria . And we’ve been anxiously awaiting the official opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum for years now, but it looks like it might actually happen in 2024.

1 USD = 4.67 MYR

Your cash will stretch far in Malaysia, especially if you fill up on street food and explore cities like Kuala Lumpur on foot. It’s also inexpensive (or in some cases, free) to visit the country’s pristine beaches, limestone caves, and some of the most beautiful tea plantations. If you’re ready and willing to shell out the big bucks, however, we highly recommend shacking up at  The Datai Langkawi —it’s definitely expensive but wholly worth it.

1 USD = 83.04 INR

India has always been a cheap travel destination; now that you can get 83 rupees to the dollar, however, the country is more affordable than ever. Hotels run the gamut from $60-per-night bungalows to pricy Oberoi and Six Senses outposts, plus hundreds of options in between. But as long as you don’t hole up in your resort the entire time, you can visit plenty of attractions and dine at local restaurants on an extremely tight budget.

1 USD = 107.45 RSD

Belgrade continues to emerge as one of Europe’s most exciting cultural epicenters, but it’s massively less expensive than, say, Paris or Berlin (at least for now). It’s relatively easy to find hotels under $100, though accommodations aren’t all that important when you spend all night dancing in clubs around the city. But you will want to get some rest to explore Belgrade’s wealth of museums and contemporary art installations, many of which just opened in the  past few years .

Ohrid, North Macedonia

North Macedonia

1 USD = 56.44 MKD

Perhaps it’s because the coastal countries get all the attention, but North Macedonia remains one of the most  criminally underrated (and therefore affordable) countries in Europe. The landlocked nation is a sleeper hit for those in the know, especially if you head to the charming city of Ohrid. It has all the cobbled streets and quaint churches one would expect from a European town, with the added advantage of being right on the shores of the incredibly gorgeous and biodiverse Lake Ohrid.

1 USD = 132.92 NPR

Nepal is one of the cheapest countries to visit for all travelers, but the U.S. dollar is particularly strong there right now. Most people immediately associate Nepal with Mt. Everest, but the tiny nation has much more to offer than bucket-list climbs. Kathmandu is overwhelming at first, but it hides some great hotels and museums once you start digging. Bhaktapur and Patan—both close by in the Kathmandu Valley—are a bit more low-key but still packed with culture.

1 USD = 66.99 GMD

It may be continental Africa’s smallest country but don’t you dare overlook the Gambia . The ultra-affordable nation has long been a coveted spot for wildlife enthusiasts, but it’s starting to rise in the ranks as both a  food destination and luxury cruise  port of call .

1 USD = 15,556.65 IDR

Despite the post- Eat, Pray, Love influx of tourists, Indonesia remains an affordable vacation spot overall. While millions of people flock to Bali (where resort prices are steep in response), you can enjoy a much cheaper and more peaceful trip on  the islands of Sumba and Lombok. And don’t forget about Jakarta, where a solid day includes filling up on greasy noodles and  nasi goreng gila  from makeshift street stalls—all for just a couple of US bucks.

Beach near Ksamil, Albania.

1 USD = 93.95 ALL

Albania is much less expensive than other European countries—and it’s a bit under the radar as a tourist destination, which means there’s still a chance to visit before the word gets out and the crowds descend. One of the most enticing reasons to plan a trip is the food: Picture tables filled with rosemary-scented lamb, tart mountain cheeses, blackened sea bass, and bottles of fruit juices. In Tirana, book a stay at Agroturizëm Gjepali , a restaurant turned hotel with river views and doubles starting at just $70.

1 USD = 12,375.00 UZS

Uzbekistan is still on the up-and-up when it comes to foreign travel, which makes it one of the most exciting and affordable destinations in Central Asia. The major cities are filled with both intricate mosques and brutalist monuments—all free to explore—and you’ll be hard-pressed to spend more than $5 per meal at restaurants. There aren’t too many name-brand hotels set up yet, but even places like the Hyatt Regency Tashkent have nightly rates below $170.

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40 Cheapest Countries To Visit in 2024

This article may contain affiliate links, please read our disclosure policy .

Looking to travel the world and explore new places to travel on a budget? Count me in! Here, you’ll find a list of the cheapest countries to visit in 2024  for an affordable yet unforgettable experience.

Love this? Check out the 15 Cheapest Places To Visit In Europe !

Table of contents

Want to save money and still travel the world? You can!

Travel doesn’t have to be expensive. And if you live in a big city, it could be cheaper to travel around the world than to stay at home! How do I know that? In 2019 Dan and I traveled for 4 weeks in Indonesia. Guess what? We ended up spending less than staying at home. And we booked some pretty awesome accommodations too! 

How is that possible? There are plenty of dream destinations where you can get a lot more for your money! And these incredible countries offer not just the best value but also unforgettable sights and experiences. The trick is knowing where to go and how to spend your money wisely.

To help you decide where to go, I convinced a group of expert travel bloggers to share their favorite cheapest countries to visit on a tight budget. Some of them spent months (or even years) in these countries and have revealed the smartest ways to visit these popular destinations without spending a fortune (we are talking $50 a day or less!!! ).

From Morocco to Guatemala, here are 35 beautiful places you can visit without breaking the bank.

How to Read My Daily Budget Estimate

My daily budget is based on food, accommodation, and transport per person, in USD. It’s based on a backpack hostel budget (low range) to mid-range hotel accommodation (higher range). You can, of course, spend even less if you are a thrifty traveler or are traveling as a couple or with friends. Or more if you want to splurge a little!

Also check, 27 Historical Places In The World That Will Take Your Breath Away !

Cheapest Countries To Visit in 2024

Cheapest countries to visit in Asia Vietnam , Myanmar , Cambodia , India , Nepal , Indonesia , Sri Lanka , Thailand , Iran , Laos , Philippines , Malaysia

Cheapest countries to visit in America Ecuador , Colombia , Bolivia , El Salvador , Guatemala , Nicaragua , Honduras , Cuba , Mexico , Argentina

Cheapest countries to visit in Europe Greece , Turkey , Armenia , Georgia , Croatia , Czech Republic , Latvia , Lithuania , Poland , Portugal , Romania , Serbia , Estonia , Spain

Cheapest countries to visit in Africa Kenya , Ethiopia , Morocco , Egypt

Cheapest countries to visit in Asia

DAILY BUDGET: $25-$35 per person Eating out: $5-$10 Accommodation: $10-$20 per night Transportation: $1

Emily from Wander-Lush

In a region known for being budget-friendly, Vietnam is one of the top value-for-money destinations in Southeast Asia. A backpacker can get by on as little as $25 per day and still experience the best of what the country has to offer.

Most nationalities require a tourist visa to enter Vietnam. Don’t let this initial cost put you off: once you’re in, everything is cheap. You can find a bed in a decent hostel in the bigger cities or at a homestay in rural Vietnam for as little as $10 per night.

Street food dominates in Vietnam, and a bowl of pho, a plate of Banh Cuon, or any one of the county’s other delicious delicacies will set you back less than $2. A glass of Bia Hoi (keg beer) in Hanoi goes for as little as 20 cents. Expect to pay between $5 and $35 for an inter-city bus or train ticket, depending on the distance. 

Of course, there are lots of good reasons to travel to Vietnam beyond the low costs.

The country is incredibly diverse, offering everything from trekking in the magnificent hills of Ha Giang to boat rides in the Mekong Delta backwaters.

An excellent way to experience the country is to travel between Hanoi and Saigon on the Reunification Express train, stopping at beaches, historic towns, and national parks along the way.

Please read: A state of emergency remains in place across Myanmar. You are strongly advised not to travel to Myanmar right now. Come back for updates.

DAILY BUDGET: $35-$45 per person Eating out: $5 Accommodation: $20 Transportation: $2

Miguel from Travelsauro

Myanmar, also known as Burma, is unlike any other country in Southeast Asia. Because they have opened up to tourism in the last decade, you’ll find that infrastructure can be lacking, and travel can be challenging.

However, visitors will be rewarded with hundreds of temples, pagodas, and monasteries, plus of course, some of the friendliest people in the world.

Myanmar can be slightly more expensive than some of its Southeast Asian neighbors, but not significantly so. Most services are still pretty cheap, including accommodation, transportation, and tours.

Expect to pay around $3 for a basic meal, $2 for a bottle of beer, $10 for a dorm bed, and $2 for a short taxi ride. I’d say that $25 or $30 a day is a pretty realistic budget.

Among the best things to do in Myanmar, we can highlight: visiting Yangon and Mandalay, cycling around the temples of Bagan, climbing up to the Golden Rock, and visiting the Inle Lake.

If you have time, I recommend that you hike all the way from Kalaw to Inle Lake . This trek is a highlight for many first-time visitors to Burma, and it can be completed in 3 days and is of medium difficulty.

You’ll find beautiful landscapes, traditional villages, remote monasteries, and welcoming people!

3. Cambodia

DAILY BUDGET: $30-$40 per person Eating out: $5 Accommodation: $12 Transportation: $20

Andrea from Happy Days Travel Blog

Cambodia is a country we return to again and again.

It has so much to offer: the vibrancy and grandeur of the capital Phnom Pehn, the awesome history on display at Angkor Wat, the old-world charm of Battambang, the beautiful beaches of Sihanoukville, the stunning natural landscapes of the north, the chance to see Irrawaddy dolphins in the Mekong River, the delicious food, and, above all, the friendly people.

Despite their horrific recent history, Cambodians are open and welcoming to visitors, relishing the opportunity to share the secrets of their homeland.

Not only does it have all of these fantastic attractions, but Cambodia is also a great place to visit if funds are limited. Independent travelers can spend as little as $10/12 per day on accommodation, food, and travel.

For a budget of $20-$30 per day, you can live very comfortably, staying in a room with private facilities in a guest house and eating street food ($1/2 per meal) or in basic restaurants (US$3-$5 per meal).

Bus travel between destinations in Cambodia is cheap and efficient. Expect to pay around $10 for a reserved seat on an air-conditioned coach between Phnom Pehn and Siem Reap or Sihanoukville. If time and money allow, don’t miss the boat trip between Siem Reap and Battambang.

For $20, you get to spend 8 hours on a boat getting up-close and personal with the people who make their homes around Tonle Sap, the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia and one of the richest fishing grounds in the world.

Overland transport connections to neighboring Thailand, Vietnam, and Laos are also frequent and affordable, making Cambodia the ideal place to base yourself while exploring this fascinating part of the world.

DAILY BUDGET: $25-$35 per person Eating out: $1.50 Accommodation: $23 Transportation: $9

Sarah and Olivier from Off The Tourist Treadmill

India is an excellent destination for backpackers and tourists looking for one of the cheapest places to visit.

First: you can stay for a long time on a minimum budget.

Second: you can’t be indifferent to India – you will either love it or hate it.

Our first impressions were noise, confusion, and overcrowding. After a few days, you quickly adjust and learn to embrace the organized chaos. Third: India is a mix of different cultures where everybody lives together in harmony. If you open your mind and forget your prejudices, India can offer you so many experiences and beautiful sights.

India is perfect for backpackers because you can experience all of this by spending very little money. We stayed in some great small guest houses for $13-$25 a night during our trip to India. In the spiritual town of Pushkar, we stayed at the centrally located Everest Hotel for just $23. Our room was very comfortable, and we could share experiences with other backpackers on the roof terrace.

Food in India is also cheap. For just a few dollars, you can taste many different dishes. Ask the locals, and you will find places to eat thali (a big plate with a selection of various spiced dishes) for 100 Rupees ($1.50). However, you quickly appreciate that India is a land of contrasts. Slums reside next to 5-star hotels, and you can spend $1.50 or $100 on food.

Traveling in India is also very cheap. India has a good rail network, so we traveled by train. There are different classes, but you will pay approximately $9 for 200 km if you opt to travel in the second class.

India is an incredible country. If you can open your mind and be accommodating, you will improve your patience the more you stay in India.

DAILY BUDGET: $25-$35 per person Eating out: $5 Accommodation: $6 Transportation: $8

Sophie from Third Eye Traveller

Nepal has something for everyone: from the snowy peaks of the Himalayas to peaceful Buddhist temples and lush green nature parks. What’s even better is that this trekker’s paradise is friendly on a shoestring budget. 

Backpackers can spend as little as $20-30 a day in total for a bed for the night, transport, attraction prices, and food. Hostel beds are as cheap as $3 in Kathmandu or Pokhara, and budget guesthouses are $5-$6 for a double room. As you’re in a mountain country, buses are king here and typically cost $5-8 to get to your next destination. 

If you’re feeling hungry, Dal Bhat, or lentils with rice, is a local favorite and will cost you less than $1 .  Thukpa (noodle soup) and Momos (dumplings) are tasty Himalayan delicacies that you can’t miss for a mere $1-3 a meal. Chai tea, an addictive sweet and spicy hot drink, is only 20 cents! 

Guided trekking in Nepal can be expensive, especially if you need equipment. But, there is the option to do treks self-guided and make use of the tea houses, which provide cheap shelter for hikers along the way. 

Nepal is my paradise. Waking up to mountain views each day, hearing the chimes of the stupa temples, and experiencing the welcoming hospitality of the Nepali people all made this a spectacular destination. 

If you’re up for an adventure but don’t want to stretch your purse strings, Nepal is one of the perfect cheapest destinations to visit on a budget. 

6. Indonesia

DAILY BUDGET: $40-$50 per person Eating out: $1.50 Accommodation: $30 Transportation: $8

Halef and Michael from The Round The World Guys

It’s no secret that Asian countries are amongst the cheapest in the world to visit, as well as to settle in. While many visitors flocks to well-known places in Thailand or the Philippines, Indonesia is probably one of the best and cheapest countries to live in.

What not to love about Indonesia? This vast nation with more than 17,000 islands offers so much cultural diversity and natural beauty. From the ancient Buddhist temple of Borobudur to the underwater marine paradise of Raja Ampat, there is always something to explore.

Many visitors and digital nomads flock to the touristy island of Bali, which is a stunning part of Indonesia. But if you want more value for your money, try different parts and islands of Indonesia, such as Lombok, Sumatra, or Java.

On Java, the densest island on earth, you can always rely on public transportation. Hop on a shared cab, rickshaw, or train to go around – and even flights are frequent and reasonably priced.

The cost of living in Indonesia is relatively cheap; for example, in many traditional warungs (food stalls), you can expect to pay no more than $1.50 to get a full meal. If you are not familiar with the local food, here are some basic Indonesian food facts and dishes to try.

Budget backpackers can expect to pay $10-$30 per day on Java by staying with locals or a budget hostel and eating in local establishments.

7. Sri Lanka

DAILY BUDGET: $30-$40 per person Eating out: $6 Accommodation: $17 Transportation: $2

Bradley and Cazzy from Dream Big, Travel Far

If you’re on the lookout for a destination that’s not only cheap but stunning and offers lots of great things to do , then Sri Lanka should be number one on your list. You can get by easily on a low budget. To backpack Sri Lanka, you’re probably looking at an average budget of around $20-30 per day.

Sri Lanka is a beautiful country with gorgeous beaches, stunning waterfalls, mountains, culture, and safaris. You’ll never get bored, and you’ll struggle to leave.

Hostels and hotels in Sri Lanka are very reasonable. Dorm rooms start at around $5-10 per night, or you can get shared rooms in a hotel for as low as $17 per night (and that typically includes air conditioning).

Transport is very affordable too: if you use local buses/trains, don’t expect to pay more than $1-2 for long journeys.

And the trick with food is to eat where the locals eat, and the food in Sri Lanka will be super cheap. Local food hovers around the $2-3 mark for a meal. If you decide to eat in “Westernized” restaurants, expect to pay around $6 upwards, depending on the quality.

8. Thailand

DAILY BUDGET: $50-$65 per person Eating out: $10 Accommodation: $30 Transportation: $21

Josie from Josie Wonders

Thailand is one of the cheapest countries to visit on a budget. It’s beautiful, well set up for travel, and incredibly affordable.

Visitors can see everything from jungles to temples, white beaches, and striking blue water. It’s warm all year round, so always great for a visit.

For the super-budget traveler, it’s possible to find basic dorm accommodation for as little as $4. Mid-range accommodation can be found for around $30, in some places much less, and go up to about $60 for a western-style three-star hotel such as an Ibis in Bangkok.

At the markets or in a local restaurant, it’s possible to get a dish of noodles and a non-alcoholic drink for $1.50-$3. In a more western or touristy restaurant, expect to pay about $8-$10 for a meal.

Local transport can be as little as just a few Baht, depending on how you are getting around. Long-distance buses can also be very cheap. The ten-hour trip between Chiang Mai and Bangkok, for example, starts at approximately $19.

An overall budget of $63 per day should give most visitors a good experience. If you are super frugal, traveling on even half of that is possible without too much effort.

DAILY BUDGET: $35-$45 per person Eating out: $3.50 Accommodation: $16 Transportation: $6

Joan from Against the Compass

Home to some of the most mind-blowing mosques on earth, composed of eyed-blessing domes and jaw-dropping madrassas; some of the most welcoming and genuine local people you will ever encounter; and contrasting landscapes that range from the deserts in the south to the snowcapped mountains in the north; Iran is, definitely, the ultimate destination of the year.

But besides being a great country, Iran is cheap, really, and with the continuous Rial devaluation, it is getting even more affordable.

Meals in local eateries range from $1 to $3.50 (30,000 to 120,000IR), whereas you would pay around $6 (200,000IR) in a higher-quality restaurant.

You can find decent hotels as cheap as $9 (300,000IR), with mid-range options starting at $16 (550,000IR).

The different Iranian cities are really well-connected by buses, which is the preferred way of transportation for locals. A VIP bus ticket, which is the kind of bus you must take, never costs more than $5 or $6 for several hundred-kilometer journeys.

DAILY BUDGET: $25-$35 per person Eating out: $5 Accommodation: $50 Transportation: $16

Emma from Explore Shaw

Often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors in Thailand and Vietnam, Laos is not to be missed on your next Southeast Asian itinerary.

This tiny country is an absolute gem with cheap eats, accessible transportation, and more natural attractions than you could imagine. Travel through Laos can be easily worked into any budget, with options for all kinds of price points.

Depending on your budget, there are hotels for everyone, with hostels averaging about $10 – $15 and mid-range hotels sitting around the $30 – $50 price point per night.

Traveling between cities throughout Laos is also very affordable. A train between Luang Prabang and Vientiane costs around $16 one way, and a one-way flight between the two cities starts from $45.

Once you’ve arrived and got settled in your accommodation, it feels like everything else in Laos is only a couple of dollars. Delicious street food can be found all over Laos, with meals starting under a dollar.

Tuk Tuk rides average only a couple of dollars to get you around the towns and cities. Even entrance into some of the most beautiful waterfalls and attractions costs as little as $2.

It’s the perfect place to unwind and give your budget a break!

11. The Philippines

DAILY BUDGET: $35-$50 per person Eating out: $10 Accommodation: $50-$100 Transportation: $40

Pam from Hey Miss Adventures

Southeast Asia is home to the cheapest countries to live in, and the Philippines is no exception. We traveled as a family (2 adults and 1 toddler) for almost a month and spent less than $800 for EVERYTHING. 

And what I love about my country is that it offers pretty much everything: cities, mountains, beaches (lots of this!!!). In some places like Cebu (where I live, which is also why I’m biased), you can experience all three in just a single day!

Living on $50-$100 a day as a family is already a reasonable range when traveling around the Philippines and could already put you in a flashpacker/mid-range budget. 

Meals in carenderias (native restaurants) can cost around $2 per person or about $6-10 in a fine dining setting. You can stretch this budget further if you rent an Airbnb and cook your own food.

As for transportation, you may have to budget a bit more.

The Philippines is an archipelago so expect a lot of boat trips that can start at $10 per way, depending on the type of accommodation (economy or premium) and the destination.

Some smaller motorized boats can already bring you to the next island for as little as $0.40. Or you can use the local budget airline and book a round-trip ticket for as low as $40.

For trips around the city, you can take the jeepney (minimum of $0.15), bus ($4-$10 depending on the destination) or taxis and Grab cars (around $6 for a 1-hour trip)

12. Malaysia

DAILY BUDGET: $25-$50 per person Eating out: $5 Accommodation: $10 Transportation: $10

Luke at The Coastal Campaign

Malaysia is a great country to visit for those backpackers who are traveling on a budget.

My girlfriend and I recently explored Malaysia and found it relatively cheap, especially compared to neighboring Thailand. As a couple, we spent approximately $50 USD a day, which is just $25 a day per person, and this included accommodation, food, and activities for the day.

We definitely backpacked around Malaysia on a shoestring budget, but we always had clean, air-conditioned rooms and delicious food each day.

We spent an average of $10 USD per night for a double room and $5 for a meal in a local restaurant. The food in Malaysia is incredible, especially if you like Indian food. Short bus journeys cost a couple of dollars, while trips of several hours cost $10 USD plus.

One of the highlights of Malaysia was actually visiting Kuala Lumpur.

We had heard mixed reviews from other travelers, but we thought it was a brilliant city to spend a few days in with lots of awesome things to do. Malaysia is definitely a great country to visit on a budget, and if you are a foodie, you will absolutely love it.

Cheapest countries to visit in South America

13. ecuador.

DAILY BUDGET: $30-$50 per person Eating out: $1-$8 Accommodation: $10-$40 Transportation: $0.35

James Ian at Travel Collecting

Ecuador is a budget traveler’s paradise and still one of the cheapest countries to visit in South America. It has islands, the Andes and the Amazon rainforest; colonial towns, lively markets, and a strong indigenous culture; hot springs, wild rivers, and unique wildlife.

There is an incredible variety of things you can do. The capital, Quito, is the most expensive city, but even there, you can easily get a budget breakfast for $1.50-$3, lunch for $2-$5, and dinner in a budget restaurant for $3.50-$8.

A bus in Quito costs $0.25-$0.35, and taxis are only a couple of dollars around the center of town. A dorm bed in a hostel will set you back $10-$15, and you can get a double room in a budget hotel for less than $40 per night easily.

A typical daily expenditure for a budget traveler would be about $30-$50 (more if you do more, of course).

One of my favorite activities is cycling down the Andes from Banos , and bike rental is $10 for the whole day, so this is a cheap activity.

There are also markets in many Andean towns where you can get local handicrafts for very reasonable prices (though you do need to bargain to get a bargain!).

It’s even possible to travel around the Galapagos islands (notoriously expensive) for about $120/ day if you do land-based budget travel.

14. Colombia

DAILY BUDGET: $20-$30 per person Eating out: $15 Accommodation: $35 Transportation: $6

Barbara from Mums on Flip Flops

Like most countries in South America, Colombia is an absolutely incredible country and a great budget destination too!

You get to see the world’s most giant palm trees, tropical beaches, charming colonial towns, glorious mountains, and ancient cultures, and we can go on and on!

We are a 2 mums and 1 daughter family, and our budget is situated somewhere between backpackers and mid-range (with an occasional splurge). Our average daily budget for Colombia for the 3 of us was 200.000 COP ($62).

When we are talking lodging, we want our ho(s)tel rooms as cheap as possible, but with good hygiene, a private bathroom, and – if possible – with breakfast included. In Colombia, you can expect to pay around $35 for a double room like that.

As breakfast is usually included, we eat out at lunch and grab something small in the supermarket or at a food stall for dinner. We spent about $15 a day on food.

Because we are traveling with a small child, we like to stay put in one place for 5-7 days, and with nap times, sightseeing is done in a very chill way.

We also love to find cheap or free activities. This means we spent about $3 a day on transport and $6 on activities and sightseeing. 

15. Bolivia

DAILY BUDGET: $20-$30 per person Eating out: $3 Accommodation: $15 Transportation: $2

Daniel James from  Layer Culture

Bolivia is a country that many people tend to skip. However, it is the cheapest country to visit in South America.

This vast and mysterious country is also home to one of the top destinations in South America, which is Salar de Uyuni, one of the dreamiest destinations in the world.

The southern portion of the country is home to the majestic Lake Titicaca, which is the highest navigable lake in the world.

It is no secret that  Bolivia is known for  its diversity in culture as well as its cheap backpacker-friendly prices. You can spend as little as $10/15 dollars per day and cover accommodation, food, and travel.

A lunch, which usually includes a starter, a main course, dessert, and a refreshing drink, costs around $2-3 dollars. Overland transport is cheap and cheerful, and since Bolivia is a landlocked country, you can easily cross back and forth to Peru.

Around 32% of the population of Bolivia is considered rural, so you can easily escape the bigger cities such as Santa Cruz and La Paz to explore more off-beaten-track cities such as Potosí.

16. Argentina

DAILY BUDGET: $45-$50 per person Eating out: $15 Accommodation: $20 Transportation: $42

James Ian from Travel Collecting

Argentina is a large country with a great deal of diversity – from the gorgeous lake district; to wine country, the bustling and vibrant Buenos Aires, and down to the spectacular scenery in Patagonia, Argentina has it all. 

The currency in Argentina fluctuates wildly at times, making a big difference in how cheap it is for travel, but right now is a good time to go; after a recent currency devaluation, it is dirt cheap.  You can get a nice glass of Argentinean Malbec wine for as little as $2! 

Tours can be expensive, but you can also travel very cheaply.  You can get a bed in a hostel dorm in Buenos Aires for as little as $9.50/ night ($12-$20/ night in El Chalten).  The Glaciers National Park has an entry fee in El Calafate and the Perito Moreno Glacier (approx. $12.50 pp) but is entirely free for spectacular hiking in El Chalten. 

A steak dinner in a regular parrilla (steak house) in Buenos Aires, with a glass of wine, costs less than $15 each.  You can eat more cheaply than this, of course, and prices decrease outside the capital. 

Tango shows in Buenos Aires can set you back about $70 pp (skip the dinner and get just the show to save money), but you can also see great tango completely free in the street. 

Public transportation in Buenos Aires costs only about 35c.  So book a ticket and head down to Argentina right now!

Cheapest countries to visit in Central America

17. el salvador.

DAILY BUDGET: $25-$35 per person Eating out: $1 Accommodation: $10 Transportation: $0.25-$5

Joanna from The World In My Pocket

El Salvador is a great country to visit when you are on a backpacker’s budget. I really loved El Salvador’s diversity and the number of things to see in such a small country.

There are volcanos, lakes, beaches and Mayan ruins, traditional cities, all waiting to be explored here.

Traveling inside the country is very easy, as there are a lot of local buses that connect the cities. Because the country is so tiny, the journeys are pretty fast as well.

The capital, however, does get the rush hour traffic when nothing seems to move, so avoid traveling at those times. The cost to travel around the country varies from $0.25 cents to $5, depending on the distance.

Food in El Salvador is extremely cheap. Pupusas, the national dish of the country, only costs between $0.50 cents and $1. This delicious tortilla filled with cheese, refried beans, and many other combinations of ingredients is served with a cabbage slaw and tomato sauce. It’s the perfect food to have when going out over a glass of local beer.

Hotels in El Salvador are budget-friendly, and there are plenty of different ones you can choose from. There are boutique hotels, local B&Bs, and even chains such as Barcelo, which you can book for so much less than you would in any other country. For example, a room at the Barcelo costs around $60, and a private room at a local hotel costs around $10.

18. Guatemala

DAILY BUDGET: $30-$40 per person Eating out: $5-$15 Accommodation: $7 Transportation: $30-$50

Roz from Irish Nomads

Guatemala may seem like an off-track destination for some, but, trust me, it’s one the best places you can visit on a budget. What absolutely blew me away was the volcanos. You can toast marshmallows on an active volcano, hike to see the sunrise over twin volcanos, and swim in an enormous volcano crater lake.

As well as that, you can visit the most extensive Mayan city in the world and visit the unique turquoise limestone pools at Semuc Champey.

One of Guatemala’s most significant exports is coffee, and you can tour artisan coffee farms in the country, sampling some of their best produce.

But, the best part about Guatemala is that it’s unbelievably cheap, and it’s perfect for anyone on a budget. For broke backpackers, expect to spend less than $30 per day. You can get hostel dorm beds for around $7, pick up local, freshly cooked food in the markets in Antigua for about $3 a meal and buy a beer for less than $2, too.

If you have a little more to spend, you’ll have a luxurious time in Guatemala on a mid-range budget. Get a whole chalet with unrivaled views entirely to yourself at Lake Atitlan for $50, spend a relaxing time at a volcano lodge near Antigua for $30 and eat in great restaurants for around $15 per meal.

At those prices, combined with all of the fantastic things to do, going to Guatemala on your next trip is a no-brainer.

19. Nicaragua

DAILY BUDGET: $35-$50 per person Eating out: $1.50-$3 Accommodation: $5 Transportation: $0.30

Claudia from My Adventures Across The World

Nicaragua is one of the cheapest countries to visit in the world – the kind of place where your dollar goes a long way. More than that, Nicaragua is a fascinating country to visit.

Through time, it has retained its raw character, and that – partly for the political unrest – has yet to become a mass tourism destination. 

Packed with gorgeous beaches, it’s an excellent destination to learn how to surf. It has beautiful colonial cities that make it all the more interesting to explore, and with jungle and volcanoes, Nicaragua is a natural paradise for backpackers who will have plenty of things to do to keep entertained and who will hardly have to worry about managing their budget. 

A $50 USD daily budget in Nicaragua will go a long way, including activities such as volcano boarding and more. Should you decide you are not interested in such things, you can get by on much less!

Here’s a breakdown of costs:

• Bed in a dorm in a good hostel = $5
• A full meal at a local eatery = $3 
• Breakfast = $1.50
• Snack and street food for lunch = $2
• Bus ride = $0.30 cents
• Volcano boarding on Cerro Negro = up to $40 if bought online, cheaper if bought locally.

If you are planning to visit Central America, make sure to add Nicaragua to your bucket list!

20. Honduras

DAILY BUDGET: $35-$45 per person Eating out: $5 Accommodation: $12 Transportation: $45

William from Nomadic Urges

Honduras is a gorgeous and ecologically diverse nation. With the second largest barrier reef on the planet, the second largest rainforest in the Americas, 470 miles of Caribbean coastline, a zillion different kinds of birds, too many beaches to count, many tropical islands, and plenty of ancient ruins to explore, it’s got a lot to offer.

Too bad the ratio of risk-to-reward is so high. As far as desirable travel destinations go, It’s not very safe.

Honduras suffers from rampant gang violence and severe poverty and enjoys the notorious distinction of being one of the murder capitals of the world. These statistics, though certainly a deterrent to most, have seen some positive change of late.

The recommended advice to those looking to travel to Honduras is to stick to tourist-friendly locations like the Bay Islands, Trujillo, La Ceiba, Utila, and a handful of others. Plan to travel on a lower to mid-range budget (approximately $45 should cover a day’s expenses). To explore the country outside of established “safe” areas, hiring a guide is recommended.

In time, hopefully very little, Honduras will see a much-needed trend toward social improvement, and travelers from all over can enjoy the immense beauty it offers.

Cheapest countries to visit in North America

DAILY BUDGET: $40-$60 per person Eating out: $6 Accommodation: $50 Transportation: $20

Mayuri & Salil from To Some Place New

Cuba is one of the stunning places that I have been to. I loved the cultural vibes and the history of Havana.

Did you know that Cuba is also one of the inexpensive destinations in the Americas? Havana can be explored in 2-3 days , ideally covering Old Havana, taking a classic car tour, drinking mojitos, and learning all about their history from their museums. And you don’t have to break the bank.

There is a wide range of hotels available in Havana. Typically one night will cost $50 and above. Keep in mind that the 3-star in North America will be a 4+ star in Cuba (as a reference scale). Casa particulars (like your Airbnb) are also quite affordable, starting from $25-$30 and above.

And the FOOD – for $6 – you can have an entire meal with a drink, dessert, and main course in Old Havana. Ice creams and mojitos in most food stalls and casa paladars (privately owned restaurants) will be around $3-$4. If you are willing to line up and get food from a government-operated restaurant, you might end up paying less than $1.

There are so many tourist spots that are actually FREE in Havana (leaving the museums) for sightseeing. If you wish to take a classic car ride, you can rent one for 4-5 hours for $20.

We are primarily mid-level range travelers, but Havana is a treat for all travelers (from budget to high-end, from solo travelers to couples).

DAILY BUDGET: $40-$50 per person Eating out: $3 Accommodation: $6 per night Transportation: $20

Hannah & Adam from GettingStamped

Mexico is one of those places that is for everyone with any kind of budget. From budget backpackers to luxury travelers. We have visited Mexico on both budgets, but we always have a blast, no matter our budget for the trip.

One of our favorite places to visit is Playa del Carmen, and we lived there for six months as we loved it so much.

The best tacos are often at food trucks with lines full of locals or hole-in-the-wall plastic chair kinds of places. Our favorite restaurant has Al Pastor tacos for 13 pesos ($0.60) each. Many places have good happy hour specials where beers are often under $2 and margaritas for $3.

Getting around Mexico is super easy as well. The major cities are connected well. Right from the airport, we suggest the ADO buses for around $10-$20, depending on where you are going. Once in the local cities, jump in the local collectivos for cheap transportation.

If you want to visit some of the best cenotes in Tulum collectives, go right down the main highway where several are located and the famous Tulum Ruins.

You can easily travel to Mexico on a budget of $50 a day or less and eat like a king, visit some of the best beaches, and some epic day trips too.

Cheapest countries to visit in Europe

DAILY BUDGET: $65 per person Eating out: $20 Accommodation: $40 per night Transportation: $5

Melissa Douglas of High Heels and a Backpack

Greece is a wonderful budget travel destination. While a lot of people associate traveling to Greece with the popular (and expensive) islands of Santorini, Crete , and Mykonos, you can easily embark on a trip to lesser known and equally gorgeous islands that do not break the bank. There are over 6,000 islands in Greece, and yet, most visitors to the country tend to travel to the same few!

Instead of the most popular hotspots, consider quieter, lesser-known alternatives such as Skopelos, Alonissos, or Kalymnos. By venturing somewhat off the beaten path in Greece, you are by no means compromising your experience.

You may even enjoy traveling to quieter parts of the country more. After all, doing so enables you to escape the crowds and gain a more authentic glimpse into life in Greece. For even better savings, consider traveling during the shoulder season. Greece is still hot in May and June, and September and October, and you can still enjoy swimming at this time. Better still, hotel and flight prices often drop by as much as 50%. You can expect a stay at a budget hotel to cost around $40 a night in most parts of Greece. Traveling on a backpacker budget is a little trickier because most islands do not have hostel accommodations. 

However, you can secure dorm beds for as little as $8 a night in Athens, Thessaloniki, and other large cities.

Meals at traditional tavernas in Greece cost little more than $7-8, and the portions are generally huge, so you may find yourself taking some home. 

Street food bites like gyros and souvlaki are usually $2-3 a piece. Considering this, you should expect to spend around $60 a day in most parts of Greece.

DAILY BUDGET: $25-$35 per person Eating out: $12 Accommodation: $5 per night Transportation: $1.50

Anca and Sinan, from Dream, Book, and Travel

There’s something for every taste in Turkey, from ancient sites and modern cities to endless turquoise beaches, majestic green mountains, the travertine terraces at Pamukkale, the rock formations of Cappadocia, and one of the best cuisines in the world.

Backpackers, culture addicts, luxury travelers, and cruise passengers each find their ideal vacation here.

Turkish people are friendly and welcoming, although they might not speak much English outside the main touristic hotspots such as Istanbul and Antalya.

Economically, Turkey has not been doing great the past few years, as the national currency – the Lira – depreciated drastically. Nowadays, services are six times cheaper in Turkey when compared to Europe – say, if you were to pay $12 for a cab ride in Vienna, the same distance would cost you $1.50 in Istanbul.

Consequently, one-way public transport tickets go for as little as the equivalent of $0.5 – $1, while a meal at a decent restaurant does not cost more than $6-$12.

If you are looking to save some cash, there are fantastic street food options like the Bosphorus fish bread (balik ekmek), the world-famous Döner, or the Izmir Kumru sold everywhere for as low as $1-$2. The traditional breakfast of tea and simit will also go for the same price.

Highly sought-after destinations are, like everywhere, more expensive, but Turkey is a safe country to visit off the beaten path, and we highly recommend renting a car for this purpose.

25. Armenia

DAILY BUDGET: $20-$30 per person Eating out: $5 Accommodation: $30 Transportation: $10

Megan from Megan Starr

One of the cheapest countries to visit is definitely Armenia, a small country of around 3 million residents located in the Caucasus.

But the question a lot of tourists ask is: in which continent is Armenia? This question is difficult as Armenia is situated bang in the middle of Asia and Europe, and it bears the customs and traditions of the two continents simultaneously. And geographically, it’s really part of both!

Armenia has so much to offer travelers and is definitely one of the most up-and-coming tourist destinations worldwide. The world’s first winery has been traced back to the Areni-1 caves in Vayots Dzor province in the country.

Armenia also claims to be the birthplace of Christianity, and it has several historical monasteries dotting its landscape.

In addition, the food scene is nothing short of spectacular. The produce the country has to offer is used in its cuisine in a really delicious way, and it is even infused in wine. You can have a great meal at a restaurant for around $5.

One of my favorite things about Armenia is its capital city, Yerevan. There are so many sidewalk cafes in Yerevan that will delight coffee lovers, and these cafes allow locals and travelers to enjoy the 300+ days of sunshine annually that Armenia receives.

While there are many things to do in Armenia, you can do almost all of them at a very affordable price. Airbnb apartments are, on average, $30/night, hostels can be as low as $10/night, and you can get transport between cities for anything between $2 to $10.

26. Georgia

DAILY BUDGET: 20-$30 per person Eating out: $8 Accommodation: $24 Transportation: $20

Eva from Travellina

There are two types of destinations. First, there are the amazing, hard-to-reach countries where a holiday costs a fortune, and then there are the easily discovered, cheap countries with huge crowds hovering around with selfie sticks.

Oh, and there is Georgia. Amazingly beautiful, exotic, diverse, friendly, one of the cheapest countries to visit in Europe, and relatively undiscovered.

The only thing it lacks is large shopping malls, which is a blessing as it keeps the large tourist groups away – more room left for the individual, intrepid travelers.

Its capital, Tbilisi, is full of quirky buildings, sulfur baths, orthodox churches, and lively cafes. Only two hours drive to the east brings you to the wine region with rolling hills and unique wine-making traditions.

Did you know that the world’s oldest wine was found in 8,000-year-old jars in Georgia? No wonder locals are so proud of their wines.

After exploring the pleasures of the city, head to the countryside, the true gem of Georgia. The four most amazing villages are Mestia, Ushguli, Kazbegi, and Mtskheta.

It is easy to get around in local minivans, marshrutkas. They do not have exact timetables but leave whenever they are full. The drivers hit the road at mad speed, so you should not attempt driving yourself without decades of practice and strong nerves.

But in Georgia, you do not really need to rent a car. Public transport is ridiculously cheap, or you can join the many 1-4 day tours organized by small local agencies.

Prices: 1-day group tour costs around $20-25, a dinner for two people $8, a couple of hours marshrutka ride $10. On average, a traveler would spend about $20 a day.

27. Croatia

DAILY BUDGET: $40-$50 per person Eating out: $14 Accommodation: $45 Transportation: $3.50

Sheila of Dicas De Paris

Croatia has been put under the spotlight recently. Fans of Game of Thrones shot around Dubrovnik know what I am referring to. And with the increase in Croatia’s popularity, you may wonder if Croatia can still be considered a budget destination. My answer to this question is yes!

Although places such as Split and Hvar are not so cheap at the peak of the high summer season, you can still find reasonable prices if you go in late August and September. Temperatures will still be high but milder, which I prefer, and you’ll still have plenty to do there.

I would avoid visiting Croatia between October and April: during this fall/winter period, with the lowest temperatures, a visit to Croatia can be a bit melancholic.

If you want to get the most out of your money, I will avoid visiting the most famous cities in Croatia.

Explore the Istrian region, starting with the city of Rijeka, going up Opatija, going down to the historic town of Pula, with its Roman Coliseum, and ascending to Pórec.

This region inherited the Roman Empire’s rich history and delicious cuisine with many pizzas, local wines, and dishes based on truffles.

Accommodation prices in Croatia can go from $20 to $45 per night, depending on the type (hostel, hotel, or Airbnb). A meal can range from $6 to $14 if you opt for a delicious restaurant in a tourist area.

Transportation between cities in the region can be as cheap as $3.50 if you travel by bus. And good coffee costs between $0.60 to $1.70: the most affordable espresso in Europe!

28. The Czech Republic

DAILY BUDGET: $80 per person Eating out: $25 Accommodation: $40 Transportation: $3.50

Jenn from Sick Girls Travel

The Czech Republic is not only a gorgeous country loaded with stunning medieval towns, soaring mountains, ancient ruins, and historic castles, it’s an excellent destination for budget-minded travelers.

Accommodations in the Czech republic start at $10 USD a night for hostels, $40 per night for budget hotels, and $120 per night for a five-star hotel.

A three-course traditional Czech meal will set you back about $33, and a delicious Czech beer costs $2.

Full-day tours from Prague range from as little as $50 for a trip to the medieval town of Kutna Hora to $180 for a 2-country tour of Czechia’s and Germany’s Bohemian Switzerland and Bohemian Saxon National Parks. 

A backpacker on a budget can expect to spend about $80 per day. A traveler on a mid-range budget should plan for a cost of about $100-$150 per day, making The Czech Republic one of the most affordable countries in Europe. 

DAILY BUDGET: $40-$50 per person Eating out: $13 Accommodation: $28 Transportation: $5

Peter and Lauren from Our So Called Life

Latvia is a great budget-friendly country to visit. Nestled amongst the three Baltic states in northeast Europe and filled with a rich culture and plenty of things to see and do.

We visited the capital city of Riga for three days, spending around $48 per person per day on food and doing one or two of the attractions each. An average evening meal costs approx $13 per person, but there are also more budget-friendly options available for those looking to spend less.

Riga’s transport costs are very reasonable with a 24-hour transport ticket that works on trams, buses, and trolleybuses, costing around $5 per person. Alternatively, if able, you can make your way around the city of Riga on foot, reducing your cost even more. Accommodation can go from $15 for a hostel to $28 a night per person.

We loved Latvia most because it was a melting pot of so many different cultures, which showed in the architecture. No two buildings were the same, with streets filled with colorful architecture from various design periods and influences, including art nouveau and gothic.

If you’re looking for a unique destination that offers plenty of experiences while still being affordable, we can’t recommend Latvia enough.

30. Lithuania

DAILY BUDGET: $30-$40 per person Eating out: $6-$12 Accommodation: $15-$38 Transportation: $12-$50

Oliver from Aciu

If you are already traveling around Europe, consider Lithuania. It’s your gateway to the Baltic region. Getting to Lithuania by bus from other cities is relatively cheap, between $12 to $50.

In Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, you could spend as little as $22 a day. This would include staying at a hostel, buying a few groceries, and enjoying some local food while out and about.

Finding a hostel that includes breakfast is relatively easy, and that will save you one meal a day. You can find hostels for around $10- $15 a night. Aren’t hostels your thing? Don’t worry. You can find some great little minimalistic hotels for $22- $38 a night.

Food is surprisingly cheap. $6 a day goes a long way at the grocery store. Eating at a restaurant can cost $6- $12 a meal, depending on where you decide to eat.

There is so much to discover in Lithuania. Even something as unique as Trakai Castle won’t break the bank. The train to Trakai from Vilnius costs around $4, and the entrance fee is $8 to the castle.

Lithuania can be really cheap to visit but is a super-rich experience. You won’t regret it.

DAILY BUDGET: $40-$50 per person Eating out: $12 Accommodation: $25 Transportation: $35

Dorota from Born Globals

Poland is a beautiful and diverse country. You can find everything there – beautiful architecture in the cities, lovely nature in the mountains. Poland has 28 mountain ranges, and each of them is different! Poland also has spectacular seaside in the north.

And the incredible thing is that Poland is still a paradise for travelers on a budget, especially compared to Western Europe.

You can eat out for less than 15 PLN ($4) if you go to a “milk bar” (bar mleczny). Expect to pay between $8-$12 for your main course in a mid-range restaurant. If you want to save on accommodation, a bed in a backpacker hostel can be as cheap as $5. If you look for more comfort, a mid-range room for two should cost approximately $25.

Costs of transportation depend on how far you’re going. Generally, the fastest train between cities costs $35. However, if you choose slower trains or book a month in advance, you can go the same way for $15.

To sum up, Poland is an excellent destination for all travelers. It’s diversified, and it can fit into your budget much more than other countries in Western Europe.

32. Portugal

DAILY BUDGET: $50-$80 per person Eating out: $8 Accommodation: $80 Transportation: $35

Jéssica from Crunchy Motherhood

Portugal is much more than a holiday country. It’s also one of the most budget-friendly countries in Europe. It’s such a cheap country, then, no matter what diet you are on. You will find plenty of meal diversification for $170 a month or less! So even as a backpacker, you can expect to explore and eat well, with plenty on offer.

Once you are in Portugal, you can choose from different options: you not only have the best surf beaches, but you can also find plenty of mountains to hike, eco-villages to visit, and nature to explore.

There are many other reasons to explore this country, rich in tradition and culture.

Beautiful historic old towns ( Lisbon is one of my favorites), museums, and natural fountains are everywhere. Scuba-diving or airplane jumping are some of the most popular experiences for adventure lovers, but if you fancy something less risky, then a magnificent pirate ship trip to natural coast caves is a lovely experience.

Airbnb apartments can vary from around $20 to $80, depending on the area and season.

You can get a glass of fresh orange juice for $2.80, $0.80 for a coffee, or a full meal for as little as $6-$8.

If you plan to move around by public transportation, you can expect to pay as little as $3.50 a day in bigger cities or about $35 for a 2-way bus ticket from the capital to the south.

33. Romania

DAILY BUDGET: $40-$60 per person Eating out: $12 Accommodation: $17 per night Transportation: $0.50

Or from My Path In The World

Romania is a European destination that often gets overlooked, yet it’s budget-friendly and offers such a wide variety of things to do and see that you have to add it to your bucket list.

You can enjoy its urban side by visiting cities like Bucharest or experience its traditional side by exploring regions like Transylvania (home to the most charming villages).

Romania is also a fantastic destination for nature lovers, with 14 national parks perfect for scenic drives and outdoor activities. It amazes me how such an underrated gem can be such a diverse and exciting place to visit.

To understand the cost of traveling in Romania, it’s important to know that the local currency is Lei (or RON) and that 1 RON is worth around $0.23. You’ll pay about $12 for a 3-course meal at a mid-range restaurant and $1-$2 for coffee.

As for transportation and hotels, a one-way bus ticket should cost about $0.50, a taxi will charge $0.50 per km, and you can find accommodations for literally every budget.

DAILY BUDGET: $40-$50 per person Eating out: $10-$20 Accommodation: $50 Transportation: $5

Stephanie from Sofia Adventures

Serbia is an excellent budget destination. Traveling on $50, you can get a lot of bang for your buck. If you’re traveling solo, you can generally get a dorm bunk or a private room, food, and activities in for this budget.

If you’re traveling with a friend and you can split an Airbnb apartment or private hotel rooms, your money will stretch even further.

While planning your Belgrade activities , note that you can get a taxi to most places in the city for less than $4, most museums cost $5 or less to visit (and many have free days), and so many of the best things to do in Belgrade are free.

Buses around the country are economical, so you can get out to Novi Sad, Novi Pazar, and Nis without breaking the bank.

The only thing that’s really more expensive in Serbia compared to other European countries is renting cars, so use public transportation if you’re looking to keep things on a strict budget.

You can eat street food, groceries, and baked goods from Serbian pekaras for less than $10 a day, or you can splurge and enjoy some of the nicer mid-level restaurants for closer to $20.

35. Estonia

DAILY BUDGET: $50-$80 per person Eating out: $10-$20 Accommodation: $20-50 Transportation: $5-$10

Steve Rohan from The Trip Goes On

Estonia is a great budget destination for backpackers thanks to its low prices compared to the rest of Europe. 

There is plenty to keep travelers occupied, from exploring Tallinn’s beautiful old town (considered one of the prettiest in Europe) to the country’s stretch of sandy beach along the Baltic Sea. 

Getting to Estonia doesn’t break the bank as Europe’s largest budget airline, Ryanair, flies to Tallinn. It’s also very cheap to travel by bus from neighboring countries within  the Baltics , and even by boat from Finland for under $30.00. 

The average budget for Estonia is around $80.00 per day, however, if staying in hostels and eating cheaply, this can be reduced to below $50.00.  

You can find dorm beds in Tallinn for as little as $14.00 per night (about half the price of Italy). 

A meal in a local restaurant will cost you under $10.00. However, this price rises in the more touristy areas such as Town Hall Square in Tallinn. 

Estonia is definitely one of the best places in Europe for budget travelers, and I have visited the country over five times so far.  

DAILY BUDGET: $50-$80 per person Eating out: $14 Accommodation: $24 Transportation: $1.63

Jamie from Crashed Culture

When I moved to Spain, it was definitely a breath of fresh air to find out how cheap it was!

I was only living on 1,000 euros a month, and that was PLENTY for everyday life and a lot of traveling.

Groceries were only about $22 a week. Because I was under 26, I qualified for Madrid’s public transportation deal of 10 euros a month for unlimited travel (which really cut my living costs). And thanks to a really great deal I stumbled upon, I found myself housing for $280 a month which was just a metro trip away!

Thanks to how cheap Spain is, I really got to enjoy the country for what it is.

Especially Madrid, where I was living, is such a popular place to visit. I got to meet so many different kinds of people and have so many different experiences. Honestly, whatever you like to do when you travel, you can find it here: history, culture, languages (and not just Spanish), and even the bar crowd.

You can make Spain whatever you want it to be, and you can do it on the cheap. Remember, authentic tapas are only a couple of euros each ($2.50), and they’re meant to be split between a group of people!

Cheapest countries to visit in Africa

DAILY BUDGET: $50-$80 per person Eating out: $24 Accommodation: $58 Transportation: $29

Lee from The Travel Scribes

Africa is jammed full of cheap destinations, but, of course, not all of these destinations are entirely safe to visit. Kenya, the powerhouse of East Africa, is one notable exception. The country can be seen cheaply and is generally considered safe to travel to.

What makes Kenya so unique is its fusion of local culture and sheer, raw natural beauty.

We love that you can see some of the world’s most incredible national parks by going on safari and seeing wildlife like lions and giraffes roam freely in famous sanctuaries like the Maasai Mara or Amboseli.

If you time it right, you can even see one of the globe’s largest natural migrations – 1.5 million wildebeests and zebras crossing the country.

Beyond seeing animals in the wild, you can relax on Kenya’s beaches, climb its incredible Mount Kenya or even go river-rafting. If it’s a city fix you’re after, Nairobi – the capital – offers you a glimpse into African life with its frenetic streets and loud, colorful culture.

Kenya can be done cheaply at about $15-30 USD a day. This includes staying in cheaper hotels or hostels, eating local food, and visiting affordable attractions like riding an ostrich ($5) or visiting an elephant orphanage.

If you want to add in a traditional safari, you are looking at around $80 per person per day, with the cheaper park being Nairobi National Park, at $40 a day per entry.

If you are staying in Nairobi, a great alternative is to do a walking safari at the Hells Gate National Park . Its entrance fee of $26 for tourists is much more affordable than a full-on safari, and you won’t miss a chance to see animals in the wild.

38. Ethiopia

DAILY BUDGET: $15-$25 per person Eating out: $13 Accommodation: $10 Transportation: $5.50

Nicole from Nicole La Barge

Ethiopia is one of the cheapest countries to visit in the world and has something for everyone. It’s a diverse country with much to offer, from culture, history, food, and wildlife.

You can find a hotel room in Ethiopia for $10 a night. Ethiopia is one of the cheapest countries to travel to in Africa, and you can get a meal for less than $5.

Gondar in Ethiopia is the jumping-off point to go trekking in the Simien Mountains in northern Ethiopia, searching for the Gelada Baboon, which is only found there. This was a highlight for me.

The landscape is spectacular after millions of years of erosion which has created deep valleys and jagged peaks.

Several treks in the Simien Mountains offer fantastic scenery and plenty of wildlife, such as the ibex (a wild goat found nowhere else in the world), caracals, and Ethiopian wolves.

The Simien Mountains are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and well worth a visit as it is like nowhere else on earth.

39. Morocco

DAILY BUDGET: $50-$70 per person Eating out: $5 Accommodation: $20 Transportation: $40

Allison from Eternal Arrival

In general, Africa can be an expensive continent to visit, but Morocco on a budget is possible, especially on a mid-range budget (around $50 per day)!

Traveling in this incredibly photogenic and exciting country is relatively affordable.

A meal can cost anywhere from $1 for a simple street food sandwich to around $4-5 for a sit-down meal in a non-touristic location. Fancier dinners with shows can cost up to around $20+ or more. Alcohol is not illegal in Morocco, but it is not commonly sold, and when it is, it is not cheap, so if you are on a budget, I recommend refraining from drinking.

A lovely but comfortable riad for two people will cost around $20 per night or more.

Transportation can be a bit on the expensive side, with a multi-hour bus, train, or grand taxi between cities averaging around $20-40 on the low end and can rise if you use a fancier company like CTM or purchase a first-class ticket. Tours, however, are incredibly affordable, with a 3-day tour in the Sahara Desert averaging around $40 per day per person or less.

And, of course, you’ll want to factor in some money for shopping in Morocco, which was easily my favorite part of traveling to Morocco (except for seeing the beautiful Sahara Desert!).

To save money, stick to fewer cities to reduce expensive transportation days, eat local, and haggle mercilessly in the souks, especially in Marrakech!

DAILY BUDGET: $40-$50 per person Eating out: $10 Accommodation: $40 Transportation: $35

Sara from Gathering Dreams

I’ve always had a dream of standing in front of the pyramids of Giza one day. Seeing with my own eyes what an ancient civilization could achieve over 5,000 years ago was something I really wanted to experience. And I have to say: it was one of the most incredible things I’ve done in my life.

Despite the recent civil unrest, if you stay safe and travel to tourist destinations, you won’t be in danger in Egypt. People are friendly and want you to experience what their incredible country has to offer.

While Cairo is quite polluted and chaotic, you absolutely have to visit the Egyptian museum. It’s one of my favorite museums in the world, and I’ve seen plenty.

Luxor is also extraordinary. I was in constant awe of every sight: the Valley of the Kings and Karnak Temple are hard to forget. You can end your day on a felucca cruise along the river Nile during sunset: so romantic!

And all of this can be done on a budget! You can eat an excellent local meal for $8-$10 a day. And book a mid-range hotel room for $30-$40 or a hostel for as little as $15 a night. You just need to make sure you budget for transportation (going around in a taxi or Uber is the best option).

Set some money aside to visit the attractions. Approximately $10 for access to the pyramids of Giza grounds. Plus $20 if you want to enter inside the great pyramid. Another $5 for the Valley of the Kings in Luxor.

Overall, very affordable on every budget!

Ready to travel to some of the cheapest countries in the world?

If you have more cheap places to suggest, I would love to hear from you! This list just scratches the surface! There are so many incredible destinations around the world where you can travel on a budget. You really don’t have to break the bank to have a wonderful time on your next vacation. And if you are traveling with friends or as a couple, you can save so much more on accommodation by sharing the cost!

Traveling and exploring the world is so rewarding! So what are you waiting for? 

Now it’s the perfect time to go!

And let me know the cheapest country you’ve ever visited!

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88 Comments

Nice list! 👍

However, I think this list should be titled “40 interesting/popular destinations to visit”. Because there are cheaper destinations in Africa for example to visit than the ones mentioned.

Nigeria is very cheaper and affordable, Ghana, Togo, etc same goes for Asia and Europe.

I’ve always wanted to embark on a journey like this. Thanks for sharing your experiences and tips – it’s super helpful for travel enthusiasts like me!

Thanks so much 🙂

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10 Best Places to Travel on a Budget

The world is full of cheap vacation spots. No matter what continent — and no matter what interests you have — there are countless places you can visit on a budget.

Few destinations are “too expensive” as long as you do some research, get creative, and have some flexibility. You just might not be living large when you visit them.

Fortunately, there are lots of destinations out there that make budget travel easy, fun, and safe.

These destinations offer affordable accommodation, cheap food, and plenty of activities and excursions that can be enjoyed without breaking the bank.

Here’s my list of the best cheap travel destinations so you can get inspired and plan your next affordable adventure!

Table of Contents

1. Thailand

2. central america, 3. cambodia, 4. the balkans, 8. portugal, 10. morocco.

It’s also super affordable.

With a tourist trail going back decades, Thailand is the heart of backpacking in Southeast Asia , and you can get by on between $25-35 USD per day thanks to cheap guesthouses, budget street food (which can be found for as little as $1 USD!), local buses, and the many cheap and free attractions. If you spend all your time on the islands and in expensive accommodation, expect to pay closer to $60 USD per day. However, even at the price, Thailand is still one of the most bargain-friendly destinations in the world and should not be skipped!

• The Ultimate Thailand Travel Guide
• 9 Incredible Things to Do in Thailand
• How Much Does It Costs to Visit Thailand?

Belize , Panama , Costa Rica — these are expensive destinations by regional standards (yet they are still quite affordable). If you visit these central Central American countries, you can get by on $45-60 USD per day as a backpacker or splash out and spend $100-120 a day to live large. Your money goes really far in this part of the world. And with so many countries to choose from, it’s easy to bounce around and see a lot without going broke.

READ MY TRAVEL GUIDES TO THE REGION:

• El Salvador

Cambodia is cheaper than popular Thailand but just as beautiful and filled with some of the nicest people in the world. Plus, it’s home to the incredible Angkor Wat (which, while expensive to visit, is worth the expense!).

• Cambodia Budget Travel Guide
• Backpacking Cambodia: 3 Suggested Itineraries for Your Trip
• Angkor Wat Travel Guide

You can get by for as little as $45 USD per day — a fraction of what you’d pay in Western Europe. A week’s worth of groceries costs as little as $25 USD while a beer costs around $2-5 USD.

And while the region was once known for being unsafe, things have greatly improved over the past decade. There’s a growing backpacking trail here and tourism is on the rise. It’s Europe least-explored region — but not for long so visit before you crowds arrive and the price skyrocket.

• Bosnia & Herzegovina

But the country becomes even cheaper when you get off the beaten path and the interior . This is where you’ll find the best travel deals and bargains. China still remains one of the best value places in the world and, with it’s massive size (it’s the 3rd largest country by landmass), there is a ton to see and do here!

• 7 Lessons Learned from 3 Months in China
• China Travel Guide: What to See, Do, Costs, & Ways to Save
• What Hitchhiking as a Solo Female in China Taught Me

India is a cheap backpacking destination with a rich cultural history, mouthwatering food, helpful and curious locals, incredible regional diversity, great tea, and a lot to do. It’s a gigantic place best either explored in either one large trip or a few smaller chunks. Either way, don’t miss India.

• 13 Amazing Things to Do in India
• India Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors
• Is It Safe for Women to Travel India?

Tucked away in the Caucasus, Georgia has been at a cultural crossroads for centuries yet it’s not nearly as popular as it should be. Tbilisi is a city bursting with activity, while the rest of the country offers intrepid adventures a rugged, off-the-beaten-path feel.

You can get by on next to nothing here too, with budget travelers spending as little as $30 USD per day. Beer is around $3 USD, a week’s worth of groceries costs around $25-30 USD, and most museums and historic sites cost just $2-5 USD.

While it might feel out of the way, Georgia is one of the next big backpacking hubs. I’d go back in a heartbeat!

• The 15 Best Things to See and Do in Georgia
• The Ultimate Georgia Travel Guide
• Finding Love and Home in Tbilisi, Georgia

Portugal has become a lot more popular and crowded in recent years (it has a growing expat and digital nomad scene) and Lisbon has become especially expensive was people move there and drive up prices. It’s a great place after all! However, once you get outside of Lisbon, prices are still relatively cheap compared to the rest of Western Europe — and you’ll see far fewer tourists too. Expect to get by on $50-60 USD per day if you’re a budget backpacker.

While is gorgeous in the summer, if you’re looking for a cheap place to spend the winter in Europe, Portugal is one of your best options.

• Portugal Budget Travel Guide
• That Time I Went to Portugal and fell Madly in Love with It
• Porto Travel Guide

While there are some regions that aren’t that safe to explore, the majority of the country is yours to enjoy. No matter your interests — beaches, partying, food, history, nature — there’s a corner of the country that you can enjoy safely without breaking the bank.

• Mexico: A Love Story
• The 20 Best Things to Do in Mexico City
• The Ultimate Mexico Budget Travel Guide
• How to Stay Safe in Mexico as a Solo Female Traveler

I fell in love with Morocco when I visited, and not just because it’s super affordable (though that did help!). Budget backpackers can get around on just $30-40 USD per day here, while midrange travelers can have a comfortable trip for around double that. You get a lot of value here. In fact, I love it so much I used to run tours there!

Morocco is a country that mesmerizes. Don’t miss it.

• 11 Reasons Why I Fell in Love with Morocco
• Morocco Budget Travel Guide
• Is Morocco Safe?

I believe most destinations in the world can be explored on a budget without sacrificing too much comfort ( heck, I even traveled Iceland on $50 USD per day ).

If you’re a savvy traveler, you know how to maximize your money no matter where you go in the world. But your mission to travel on a budget gets a lot easier when the places you’re going to are already affordable, allowing you make the most of your budget without missing out!  

Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner . It’s my favorite search engine because it searches websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is being left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld . If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• SafetyWing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those 70 and over)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Want to Travel for Free? Travel credit cards allow you to earn points that can be redeemed for free flights and accommodation — all without any extra spending. Check out my guide to picking the right card and my current favorites to get started and see the latest best deals.

Need Help Finding Activities for Your Trip? Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can find cool walking tours, fun excursions, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more.

Ready to Book Your Trip? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use when I travel. They are the best in class and you can’t go wrong using them on your trip.

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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The 31 Cheapest Places to Travel in 2024

05/01/2024 by Ashley Yap 89 Comments

Which countries offer the most value? Where can you travel to in 2024 that will allow you to go for longer, enjoy a higher standard, and save more money?

The following are 31 destinations around the world that offer the essentials — accommodation, transportation, and food — for less:

Table of Contents

Our Favorite Cheap Destinations Quick List:

• Best in Southeast Asia for Food:  Vietnam
• Best in Southeast Asia for Beaches:  Philippines
• Best in Asia for Hiking:  Kyrgyzstan
• Best in Europe for Food:  Greece
• Best in Europe for Beaches:  Croatia
• Best in Europe for Quaint Towns:  Estonia
• Best in Europe for Smaller Crowds:  Georgia
• Best in the Americas:  Guatemala
• Best for Safari:  South Africa

1. Laos, $30/day

Back in my  budget backpacking days around Southeast Asia , Laos was one of the two destinations where I was able to keep my budget at $30/day, even though accommodations were slightly more expensive than most places in Southeast Asia at that time. Many of the amazing activities you can do in Laos are very affordable. For example, I paid $2.50 to see one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world, $7 for a full-day tubing experience along the Vang Vieng river, and $6 for an awesome tiger-balm massage. You can also rent an inexpensive motorbike and venture off to smaller towns, where everything is even cheaper!

With more and more new hostels built to cater to the increasing number of backpackers, you can go for less money and for longer. However, if you have a bit more to spend, you can get a gorgeous room for closer to $35/night, which would easily cost $100 in the US.

• Meals:  $3–9 per day. Some hostels provide a basic breakfast
• Accommodation:   $5-10 per night in a hostel
• Transportation:  $6–15 for a motorbike for the day (prices may vary depending on the bike condition and your haggling skills), or up to $25 for an intercity bus ticket
• SIM card with data:  $6 for 1.5GB with 30-day validity

– Read More –

A Complete Guide to Laos

2. Vietnam, $30/day

I probably had the healthiest and cheapest  street food in Vietnam . Think soup with rice noodles, cilantro, amazing broth, and a whole shank of pork for $1.50, or a cup of strong, aromatic coffee for $1. Regarding transportation, if you rent a motorbike, you are all set for the day. However, I understand that not everyone is comfortable riding one, especially in countries like Vietnam, where the traffic can be overwhelmingly chaotic. The good news is that GrabBike (similar to Uber but on bikes!) is widely available in all major cities, and the cost is as low as $0.50 for a 2km ride! Long-distance buses and trains are also affordable and reliable. Accommodation is similarly pleasant and easier to afford than almost anywhere else in the world.

• Meals:  $5–12 per day. Some hostels provide a basic breakfast.
• Transportation:  $8–15 for motorbike rental or GrabBike trips

The Ultimate Backpacking Vietnam Route Planner

A Complete Guide to Vietnam

3. Cambodia, $30/day

I know for sure that if you choose to rough it, you can easily spend a month in Cambodia with just $1000. Dorms are very basic but can be dirt cheap; the same goes for food and alcohol. I also had my haggling skills to thank, as I was almost always able to talk my way out of being charged unfairly by tuk-tuk drivers. There are some one-off expenses, such as the three-day pass to Angkor Wat, which is currently set at $62, and diving trips that add up, but there will also be days of riding a bicycle in a small village and eating cheap and delicious meat skewers when just a dollar or two could stretch very far.

Another thing is to consider the gorgeous, mostly new  boutique hotels on Booking.com . They are obviously not as cheap as staying in hostels, but for the price, they are so worth it! I’d definitely splurge on a couple of nights and have some R&R time by the pool.

READ NEXT:  23 Cheapest 5-Star Hotels around the World

• Meals:  $5–10 per day. Some hostels provide breakfast.
• Accommodation:   $5-15 per night in a hostel
• Transportation:  $6-15 for a motorbike for the day (prices may vary depending on the bike condition and your haggling skills) or for an intercity bus ticket
• SIM card with data : $2 for 1.5GB with 30-day validity (yes, it is that cheap!)

A Perfect Cambodia Itinerary

A Complete Guide to Cambodi a

4. Northern Thailand, $32/day

The north of Thailand is easy on a tight budget. As one moves south, costs for accommodation start to double, triple, and even quadruple. Stay up north if you are short on time and money for your Thailand trip. Even in popular places like  Chiang Mai  and  Pai , you can easily find basic dorms for less than $7/night. If you stick with eating street food (to each her own, but why eat pasta when you can have pad thai, am I right?), not only will you save yourself some money, the experience will be much more authentic and tasty, too.

As far as activities go, you really do not need a lot of money to enjoy your day, as most activities such as visiting the White Temple, hiking, or gathering three other people from your hostel to rent a car and  go on some day trips , are all affordable.

• Meals: $5–15 per day. Some hostels provide breakfast
• Transportation: $6-10 for a motorbike for the day (prices may vary depending on the bike condition and your haggling skills) or  a rental car split between four people
• SIM card with data: $7 for 1.5GB with 30-day validity. See the best SIM cards in Thailand .

Thailand Bucket List: 50 Best Things to Do

A Complete Guide to Thailand

5. Indonesia, $35/day

The thing about Indonesia is that  it can be really cheap , or it can be quite expensive, depending on one big thing: transportation. Intercity traveling can be very time-consuming and costly, as is traveling from one island to another in a private boat. To save costs, stick with one region or two.  There’s a lot to do and see , and spending more time in one place will allow you to travel deeper and have  a more meaningful experience  anyway. If you want to travel far and wide on a budget, my biggest tip is to take local transportation!

On the flip side, food and drinks are cheap throughout the country, not to mention absolutely yummy too! Riding a scooter through the mountains costs very little, and so does hiking,  chasing waterfalls,  and slouching in a hammock  by the  beach  all day long. Hostels are plentiful, social, and affordable, especially in places like  the Gili Islands .

• Meals:  $5–15 per day. Some hostels provide breakfast.
• Accommodation:   $7-15 per night in a hostel
• Transportation:  $8–15 for a motorbike for the day (prices may vary depending on the bike condition and your haggling skills)
• SIM card with data:  $5 for 2GB with 30-day validity

The Perfect Indonesia Itinerary for 2 Weeks to 2 Months

A Complete Guide to Indonesia

6. The Philippines, $37/day

The Philippine archipelago can cost quite a lot of money and time to get around, and the hostel options aren’t nearly as abundant as in other Southeast Asia countries. While these two factors seem like a big turn-off for travelers trying to stretch their budget as far as possible, there are ways to keep your costs there low. If you choose to travel during shoulder seasons, book your flights and plan your journey way in advance (it is not the country to always wing it!), and try to stick within 1-2 regions, the Philippines can still be affordable.

On top of that, the country has some of the  most gorgeous islands , beautiful dive sites,  affordable group island-hopping tours , and  hidden gems  that you’d have had to pay so much more to experience in other parts of the world. In that sense, the Philippines is worth every peso you spend.

• Accommodation:   $7-20 per night in a hostel
• Transportation:  $10–15 for a motorbike for the day (prices may vary depending on the bike condition and your haggling skills) or $15–20 for a boat ride from one island to another
• SIM card with data:  $6 for 2GB with 30-day validity

The Perfect Philippines Itinerary

A Complete Guide to the Philippines

7. Malaysia, $40/day

Being one of the most economically developed Southeast Asian countries, Malaysia is often  perceived as expensive . On top of that, when I visited for the first time, a few people told me it wasn’t worth staying long. However, I ended up meeting lots of locals, was more able to communicate , and found more common ground with them than I had in Cambodia or Laos. I also had so much fun exploring Cameron Highlands,  the jungles of Borneo , and the gorgeous islands.

The cherry on top?  They were all affordable . An overnight bus from Kuala Lumpur to the Perhentian Islands costs as little as $15. There are also so many interesting local neighborhoods and markets that are free to explore. Finally, Malaysian cuisine is like no other — you can find food from just about any culture, and it’s so cheap and tasty (but not necessarily healthy). Malaysia is also one of the cheapest places in the world to get a PADI scuba diving certificate .

The one thing that could make Malaysia expensive to travel in is alcohol, which is highly taxed. However, if you don’t plan on drinking every night, or maybe consider staying sober during your trip, that will not be an issue.

• Meals:  $5–10 per day. Some hostels provide breakfast
• Accommodation:   $7–15 per night in a hostel
• Transportation:  $5–7 for a full day of train and bus rides, or $15–20 for an overnight intercity bus ride
• SIM card with data:  $8 for 2GB with 30-day validity

The Best Places to Visit in Malaysia

A Complete Guide to Malaysia

8. Sri Lanka, $35/day

Like many countries, Sri Lanka can be seen on  a backpacker budget , or one can spend a small fortune there. The biggest kicker was the price of activities, such as safaris, and admission into the UNESCO World Heritage sites.  With each running about $40-$50 per ticket, this made Sri Lanka more expensive to fully explore.

That said, Sri Lanka can be done on closer to $30 per day on the days that you don’t pay for expensive activities. Food, transport, accommodation, and the internet are relatively cheap. One thing to note about transportation is that in some cases, taking a taxi or Uber (in major cities) can be cheaper than renting a bike. Hiring a driver for the day can be as low as $5 per person if you can find people in your hostel to split the cost. The cheapest transportation is the train, which is delightful and (IMO) the best way to travel through Sri Lanka.

• Accommodation:   $8–15 per night in a hostel
• Transportation : $15–20 per person for a private car and driver split between four people, or $3–5 for a second-class cabin train ride between cities
• SIM card with data:  $2 for 1.5GB with 30-day validity (yes, it is that cheap!)

Sri Lanka’s Best  Plac es to Visit

A Complete Guide to Sri Lanka

9. Nepal, $25/day ($15/day if trekking)

Nepal is a very cheap country to travel through, with most food, accommodation, and transport running just a few dollars if you eat, sleep, and travel using local options. The street food in Nepal does not have the best reputation, though I never seem to get any stomach problems eating it. You can get cheap and delicious home-cooked meals in local-run small cafés though.

Be very mindful when you book your accommodation online, as big corporations have taken over homestays and turned them into boutique hotels and resorts, so the “local guesthouses” you’ve booked may very well be part of a big hotel chain. I suggest booking the first couple of nights online, and looking for accommodation from real local guesthouses when you arrive.

If you end up trekking , as long as you do so independently and avoid Mt. Everest itself, which costs tens of thousands of dollars, you can travel for as cheap as $10 per day on food and accommodation at the lower elevations, and closer to $20 USD at higher elevations on popular routes like the  Annapurna Circuit .

• Accommodation : $7–12 per night in a local guesthouse
• Transportation:  $10–15 per person for a private car and driver split between four people, or a local bus ride between cities
• SIM card with data:  $3 for 1.25GB with 30-day validity (yes, it is that cheap!)

A Complete Guide to N epa l

10. Taiwan, $45/day

Two words: street food, which is delectable and ridiculously cheap. For less than $2, you can get a plate of fragrant rice with pork or chicken on top, a large deep-fried chicken chop, or a bowl of yummy vermicelli with oysters. If you are a foodie on a budget, you know where to go!

In cities like Taipei and Tainan, you can register for city bikes, which cost less than $0.50 per hour per ride and are free for the first 30 minutes. This means you can possibly get around the city all day without spending any money on transportation at all.

That said, high-end food and clothing prices in Taiwan can sometimes be at US levels. Intercity traveling is either expensive on the high-speed rail (HSR) or time-consuming (if slightly cheaper). The internet is also not as cheap as in the countries above.

• Accommodation:   $10–35 per night in a hostel  (I highly recommend  this one in Taipei !)
• Transportation : $0–3 for a full day of bike, bus, and train rides, or $20–40 for an HSR ride between cities
• SIM card with data:  $33 for unlimited data with 28-day validity

That One Time I Became an Illegal Alien in Taiwan

11. India, $30/day

India  is one of the cheapest countries to travel to, but if and only if you’re willing to haggle and hunt for deals. Keep in mind that cheap rooms that run in the $3 range will be very basic, and it’s normal to shower with buckets of heated water. You will be hard-pressed to find cheap gems in the north, but the south, with its gorgeous beaches, may prove more fruitful when it comes to budget accommodation.

The best way to travel through India on a budget is to book things yourself. This means no agents and no online booking sites (except for some intercity travel — for that, check out  12Go Asia ). Similar to Nepal, if you walk into local guesthouses, restaurants, and tour companies, you could easily get the same things in person for half the quoted price online.

• Meals:  $3–6 per day
• Accommodation : $5–10 per night in a local guesthouse
• Transportation : $1–3 for a full day of bus and train rides, or $8–30 for an intercity train ride (sometimes a domestic flight costs as little as $30, if you want to splurge without actually splurging!)
• SIM card with data:  $3 for 1.5GB with 30-day validity (yes, it is that cheap!)

Solo Female Travel Stories: Archana from India

12. Kyrgyzstan, $25/day

Kyrgyzstan is the country of choice for most travelers interested in trying out Central Asia, and thus most well-suited to  travelers of all budgets . The cuisine is cheap and interesting, and so is getting around using the minibuses. Public transportation prices are fixed and are probably the cheapest aspect of traveling in Kyrgyzstan. If you are doing a multiday hike like the  Tian Shan Mountains , the tour price should include most things.

As for accommodation, you can find hostels in major destinations and local homestays in more rural places for less than $10/night.

• Meals:  $4–8 per day
• Accommodation:   $8–12 per night in a hostel  or a local guesthouse
• Transportation:  $0.20 for a local minibus ride, or $4 for an intercity bus ride — yep, that’s right!
• SIM card with data:  $3 for 3GB with 30-day validity, though I wouldn’t expect it to work in the mountains

A Quick Guide to Kyrgyzstan

13. Uzbekistan, $35/day

I bet Uzbekistan wasn’t originally on your radar when it comes to cheapest places to travel, but I’m here to tell you that it should be. This Central Asian country has so much to offer, including stunning architecture, the legendary Silk Road, and an awesome blend of old and new. And the best part? It’s incredibly budget-friendly. We’re talking $20 for food and drinks in even the fanciest of restaurants. On top of that, Uzbekistan is one of the safest countries to travel in , and the locals are known for their welcoming hospitality. Win-win!

• Meals:  $8–10 per day
• Accommodation: $8–10 per night in a hostel dorm
• Transportation:  $1 for a subway day ticket in Tashkent, or $9 for a high-speed train ticket
• SIM card with data: $3 for 8GB of data with 30-day validity

Things I Wish I Knew before Visiting Uzbekistan

14. Romania, $40/day

If you are planning a  European trip that’s affordable  and a little bit off the beaten path, Romania is perfect for you. While the country is known for Dracula, many charming towns and free activities remain unknown to most foreigners. Whether you’re taking a long stroll through the medieval villages or people-watching in one of the beautiful parks, Romania is great for anyone after a European experience on a budget. You can also make use of the free walking tours to check out the numerous historical sites.

Hostels run $10–15 per night, and the food is hearty and scrumptious (a money-saving tip: have your breakfast at the hostel, have a big hearty lunch, and cook your own dinner — it’s easy and affordable to get fresh produce from the local market, so make sure your hostel has a kitchen!). Public transportation is reliable and affordable.

• Meals:  $10–15 per day
• Accommodation:   $12–20 per night in a hostel  or a local guesthouse
• Transportation : $5–10 for a full day of bus and train rides
• SIM card with data : $6 for 3GB with 28-day validity

The Top 14 Cheapest European Countries to Visit

15. Georgia, $30/day

Georgia is another underrated European destination that’s absolutely beautiful and affordable. Also, get this: most of you will be able to enter Georgia  without a visa , and stay for  one year .  Say what?!

Quality hostels at a reasonable price range, a meal at a local restaurant for as low as $3, and a local minibus ride for less than $1 are just some of the great things Georgia can offer to its visitors. What’s more? Entrance fees to museums and historical sites are mostly less than $2.  The locals are extremely warm and welcoming, and hitchhiking is totally possible for short and long-distance travel. There are many day trips, hikes, and monasteries in Georgia, so one can easily spend months here and not get bored. It’s perfect if you have more time than money.

• Accommodation:   $10–15 per night in a hostel
• Transportation:  $3–5 for a full day of bus and train rides, $5–10 for an intercity ride, or $0 if you hitchhike!
• SIM card with data:  $3 for 1GB with one-month validity

16. Greece, $45/day

Timing is crucial if you want to travel in Greece on a budget. While prices of flights, accommodation, and tours have been largely cut down since the country’s debt crisis in 2010, summer months still cost more than others. This means avoiding July and August, which are the hottest and busiest months in Greece. Instead, go a few weeks before or after summer, and you will be able to enjoy the country with smaller crowds and a lower budget. You can also cut down on food costs by buying fresh produce from the market and making your own meals, since eating out in restaurants can be expensive in certain areas. A little picnic by the gorgeous beach can be as enjoyable as a lavish meal at a seafood restaurant!

As far as activities go, opt for free walking tours, and if you are planning to do some  island-hopping in Greece , plan well and stick with a group of islands to minimize transfers. Remember that sometimes a domestic flight can be cheaper than a bus ride for any long-distance travel.

• Transportation : $10–15 per person for  a rental car split between four people  (note: scooter rental costs about $25–30/day), or $10–20 for ferry tickets around the islands
• SIM card with data : $12 for 2GB with 30-day validity

Elafonisi Beach, Greece: The Ultimate Travel Guide

31 of the Absolute Best Things to Do in Greece

17. Czechia, $40/day

As more and more tourists flock to Czechia, or more specifically Prague, for its rich history and cheaper-than-water beer, prices have inflated over the last few years. However, it is still easily one of the cheapest Central European countries to travel in, especially if you go beyond Prague, such as Český Krumlov and Telc, to experience true Czech culture at a much lower cost. Local transportation is reliable and affordable, and if you plan to do a lot of traveling, consider getting a three-day pass for $16.

Czech cuisine is very hearty and comes in large portions. While it’s not the healthiest (most meals consist of potato and meat), it will surely fill you up, so to stretch your budget: eat out at a restaurant for lunch, and have a light snack for dinner. Entrance fees to historical sites and museums can be quite expensive ($18 to enter the Prague Castle), but you don’t always have to actually enter — the hike up is awesome, and you can always admire the architecture from outside, and pick only the most intriguing destinations to go in.

• Meals : $10–15 per day
• Accommodation :  $12–20 per night in a hostel
• Transportation:  $5 for a full day of tram rides, $15–20 for an intercity bus ride
• SIM card with data : $13 for 2GB with one-month validity

15 of the Best European Cities to Visit in December

18. Poland, $44/day

It’s a shame that Poland is often overlooked by tourists. It’s one of those countries where you can easily spend an entire day just wandering and people-watching. There will be days when you spend nothing else but on essentials.

If you are a fan of heritage sites, Poland, rich with culture and history, has 14 to offer. It costs an average of $5 to enter museums and historical sites, which is fairly affordable by European standards. The cuisine is delicious and has a bit more variety than its neighboring countries, though it’s still heavy on the calories. (Make sure to eat at a “milk bar,” an affordable yet tasty option that’s popular with locals.)

The trains are a bit dated but cost very little. Go beyond Krakow and Warsaw, and explore other smaller towns like Gdansk, Wroclaw, and Zakopane, which are all stunning and possibly even cheaper to travel in.

• Accommodation :  $9–20 per night in a hostel
• Transportation:  $1–3 for a full day of train rides, $10–15 for an intercity train ride
• SIM card with data:  $3 for 2GB with one-month validity

19. Croatia, $50/day

If you like turquoise waters, sunshine, and parties,  look no further than Croatia  for your next budget trip. There are thousands of islands off the mainland, excellent weather from May to October, and beach and yacht parties year-round. There is also beautiful architecture to marvel at, interesting sights such as the  Museum of Broken Relationships , and cute small towns to explore.

The essential expenses, including accommodation, transportation, and food, all come with a reasonable price tag. To travel in Croatia on a budget, you need a similar approach to Greece — go in the shoulder season. July and August are the country’s busiest months, so avoid them if possible. Also, keep your island-hopping to a group, to minimize transfers. Since Croatia is gaining more popularity each year, expect prices to keep rising, and aim to visit sooner than later if you want to snag a deal.

• Meals:  $10–15 per day. Some hostels offer complimentary breakfast.
• Accommodation :  $12–30 per night in a hostel
• Transportation : $12–15 per person for  a rental car split between four people , or $10-$15 for a ferry ride
• SIM card with data : $8 for 2GB with 30-day validity

20. Turkey, $45/day

Turkey can be cheap or expensive, depending on what you want to do and how deeply you want to travel through the country.  A hot-air balloon ride  costs around $400–500, and intercity traveling can be really long and costly. However, there are a bunch of other bucket list–worthy items that cost way less, and if you plan your route well, it is definitely possible, if not easy, to travel through Turkey on a budget.

The stunning Blue Mosque in Istanbul, the breathtaking white travertines in Pamukkale, and the hustling bazaars all over the country are relatively affordable to enter. While long-distance buses are expensive, if you plan well and take overnight buses, you get to save on accommodation. If you are short on time and money, stick with a city or two. Turkish food is delicious and cheap, so that’s one less thing to worry about!

• Transportation : $1–3 for a taxi ride or $30–60 for an intercity overnight bus ride

21. Lithuania, $44/day

Lithuania is a small country that most travelers skip or spend at most a night or two in, just the capital city, Vilnius. However, this charming place is not only underrated but also very affordable! If you enjoy partying, the nightlife scene in Vilnius is vibrant and fun, and alcohol is fairly affordable. If you’d like a quieter experience, check out the Old Town in Kaunas, Klaipeda, and Curonian Spit. Bear in mind that outside of the capital, hostels can be hard to come by, so book in advance or even consider Couchsurfing!

• Accommodation :  $10–20 per night in a hostel
• Transportation : $3–6 for a full day of bus rides within the city, or $15–20 for an intercity bus ride. Buses seem to be more reliable than trains in Lithuania!
• SIM card with data:  Get a Baltic SIM card for $7 for 3GB with 30-day validity

22. Estonia, $44/day

Nature lovers will love Estonia — 53% of the country is forested. This also means that activities like hiking and exploring the national parks are plentiful and affordable (if not completely free). The small towns are also great for walking and cycling, so transportation costs can be minimized. On that note, affordable hostels can be hard to come by in these towns, so consider basing yourself in the capital city, Tallinn, and make day trips to visit them.

• Accommodation:   $10–20 per night in a hostel
• Transportation:  $3–6 for a full day of train rides within the city, or $10–15 for an intercity train ride

23. Latvia, $47/day

Similar to Estonia, half of the country is covered in forests. There are also thousands of lakes and rivers, perfect for canoeing lovers. One can also easily spend an entire day wandering through the enchanting forests with castles hidden in them (okay, maybe not “hidden,” but this sounds dreamier, as castles should be). The best time to go to Latvia is during fall or winter, when you can canoe down the rivers with the color-changing leaves accompanying you, or when the  Christmas vibe  is on full display at the markets. All of these activities are affordable/free, which is why traveling in Latvia can be done on a budget.

• Meals : $12–15 per day. Some hostels offer complimentary breakfast.
• Accommodation:   $14–25 per night in a hostel
• Transportation:  $2–5 for a full day of train rides within the city, or $10–15 for an intercity train ride.
• SIM card with data : Get a Baltic SIM card for $7 for 3GB with 30-day validity

The Americas

24. mexico, $42/day.

From  Tulum  to  Baja California , Mexico is full of  endless adventures . This vast country is rich in culture, nature, and some of the best food in the world. Though it does not have the best reputation  as far as safety goes , most violence takes place in certain areas, and Mexico has  plenty of safe places to explore .

The best news? It’s easy to travel in Mexico on a budget. For less than $20, you will be able to explore  at least five stunning cenotes , like the one in the picture above; for less than $3, you can devour delicious street food like tacos (I love tacos), quesadillas, and tortillas;  the white-sand beaches  are essentially free; and the hospitality? — priceless.

While getting around within a city is cheap, intercity traveling in Mexico can be costly, mainly because of how big the country is. The best-case scenario is to  rent a car , which costs about $50–70 per day and can be split between four people. If you are  backpacking Mexico solo , try to stay in the same place for a longer time to stretch the transportation costs out. That way, you are able to  travel deeper  and experience authentic Mexico too.

• Meals:  $8–15 per day. Some hostels offer complimentary breakfast
• Accommodation:   $10–17 per night in a hostel  ( click here for the best hotels in Tulum )
• Transportation:  $3–5 for a full day of bus and train rides, or $30–50 for an intercity bus ride (yikes!)
• SIM card with data:  $10 for 2GB with a 30-day validity

Solo Female Travel Guide to Mexic o

A Complete Guide to Mexico

25. Nicaragua, $35/day

Nicaragua is one of the cheapest  Central American destinations  to travel in, although it’s not likely to stay that way for much longer. The country is nicknamed “the next  Costa Rica ,” and we all know what that means. For now, it remains affordable, fun, and interesting, so go before the prices go up and mass tourism hits.

For outdoor lovers, Nicaragua is great for surfing, volcano hiking, and diving. For a more relaxing journey, the colonial cities are beautiful to take a stroll in, and there are plenty of gorgeous beaches to lie on all day on. the cuisine is cheap and tasty, albeit repetitive. There are hostels all over, so you don’t have to worry about finding cheap accommodation.

One thing to note is that there are unfortunately safety concerns, so check  the official advisory site  and be your own judge before going.

• Meals:  $6–10 per day. Some hostels offer complimentary breakfast
• Accommodation :  $5–15 per night in a hostel
• Transportation : $3–5 for a full day of chicken bus rides, or $8–15 for an intercity bus ride
• SIM card with data : $12 for 1GB with a 30-day validity

26. Guatemala, $38/day

For an amazing Central American adventure on a budget, check out Guatemala. A visit there is no complete without seeing the beautiful  Lake Atitlán , but that’s not all — the country is covered in lush jungles, volcanos, and ruins, ideal for outdoor lovers. When you need a break from outdoor sports, colonial cities like  Antigua  or unique spots like  Hobbitenango  will capture your heart with their stunning architecture and cobblestone streets.

Local food is delightful and affordable, at about $3 for a full meal (except in Antigua, where prices are actually close to US levels).

Local transportation can be very cheap but at times confusing and risky. The locals typically take the “chicken buses,” converted school buses from North America, which are the cheapest way to get around. The buses do not have specific stops, nor is there a board with prices on it. Instead, people simply wave them down and pay the collector. Watch how much the locals are paying and do the same.

• Accommodation :  $10–15 per night in a hostel
• Transportation:  $1–3 for a full day of chicken bus rides, or $5–10 for an intercity bus ride
• SIM card with data:  $13 for 2GB with a 30-day validity

27. Colombia, $35/day

A colorful destination with a dark past, Colombia is fast becoming a popular affordable destination. If you are a history geek, you will love the museums and historical sites in Bogotá, the Lost City, and beyond. If you are into nature, the Amazon awaits. As for diving enthusiasts, Colombia also boasts some of the world’s best sites and gorgeous beaches. With accommodation, transportation and food being so affordable, you will have room for some occasional splurges, so consider booking a luxurious villa for a night or two — you won’t get a deal this great anywhere else in this part of the world!

• Meals:  $10–15 per day. Some hostels offer complimentary breakfast
• Accommodation :  $8–12 per night in a hostel
• Transportation : $1–3 for a full day of bus rides, or $10–50 for an intercity bus ride (be sure to check the domestic flights, which can sometimes be cheaper than buses)
• SIM card with data : $13 for 2GB with a 30-day validity

28. Arizona & Utah (for a road trip!), $45/day

While the US is generally not a super budget destination, if you are doing a road trip, you can definitely save in some areas and splurge in others to even out your overall budget. For my  American Southwest road trip , I spent  an average of $110/day , which included a camper van rental, food, gas, and camping, plus little splurges here and there. Now, it was definitely more expensive because I was solo; if you had just one other person, you’d be able to split the costs almost perfectly in half (more if you had two other people along, and so on). The more, the merrier (until you run out of room and start elbowing each other).

Some quick tips on saving money:

• Get a national park pass and for $80, you will be able to get a carload of people into any national park in the US for an entire year.
• Rent a camper van  if you are renting a car. Then your accommodation, apart from the van fee, can be absolutely free by  camping only on BLM land .
• Cook your own meals! Again, renting a camper van with kitchen facilities will enable this and save you a lot of money
• Meals : $12–15/day
• Accommodation : free
• Transportation : $9/day for a camper van split between four people
• SIM card with data : $35 for 1GB with a 30-day validity

A Complete Guide to Utah

A Complete Guide to Arizona

29. South Africa, $42/day

If you are traveling on US dollars or euros, the exchange rate alone will do you a big favor. At this time of writing, one South African Rand is equal to six cents US.

Any hostel, guesthouse, or tourist accommodation in South Africa is called a “backpackers,” and they are typically in beautiful settings and have a unique personality, not to mention they are  affordable too . Food is where the big budget eater or saver can be, as it can get expensive in South Africa. To save money, cook your own food. Grocery stores are plentiful and have reasonable prices. By at least preparing your own breakfast and the occasional dinner, you can save a lot.

Unfortunately, public transportation outside of  Johannesburg  and  Cape Town  can be pretty limited. While there are a few private companies and trains that provide transportation around the country, the best (and possibly) cheapest way to get around is to rent a car and share with three other people, and go on  an epic road trip  together.

• Meals : $12–15 per day
• Accommodation :  $14–18 per night in a “backpackers”
• Transportation : $9 per day for a camper van split between four people

What Does It Cost to Travel in South Africa?

A Complete Guide to South Africa

30. Namibia, $45/day

Namibia is home to some of the world’s most spectacular views, including  the gorgeous Sossusvlei , the hauntingly beautiful Deadvlei, and the massive Fish River Canyon, just to name a few. At first glance, Namibia may not seem like a budget destination, as most accommodations cater to the luxury category, and transportation from one place to another can be limited in such a vast country. However, you just need to  do things a little bit differently  to save a lot of money.

The most important thing is to choose to camp instead of staying in a lodge. The luxury lodges cost about $50–200 per night, but you can camp at their sites for about $8–10 per night; government campsites will set you back about $15–18 per night. As for transportation, ideally you would want to rent a 4×4 and share it with a few people to split the cost. If your accommodation comes with a communal kitchen, make full use of it as cooking your own meals will definitely save you money. Entrance fees are generally cheap!

• Accommodation : $8–18 per night
• Transportation : $15–18 per day for a 4×4 split between four people
• SIM card with data:  $16 for 1.5GB with a 60-day validity

The Perfect Namibia Road Trip Itinerary

A Complete Guide to Namibia

31. Egypt, $30/day

Pyramids, ancient temples, and royal palaces once inhabited by pharaohs make Egypt seem like it would come at a high price. However, the reality is that this Middle Eastern country can be surprisingly affordable for travelers. One of the biggest expenses in Egypt is getting there, but with some planning and flexibility, you can find decently priced flights to Cairo or Luxor. Once you’ve arrived, you’ll find that hostels and guest houses, food, and transportation costs are surprisingly affordable, especially if you avoid resort cities like Hurghada.

• Meals : $3–5 per meal
• Accommodation : $10–15 per night for a dorm room
• Transportation : $0.50 for a ride on a local bus
• SIM card with data : $2.81 for 12GB with a 30-day validity

Is Egypt Safe?

How Low Can You Go?

The suggested budget above includes basic accommodation, transportation, and three meals, with a mix of simple breakfasts, hearty lunches, and light dinners, as well as Internet and one paid activity for the day. You will need to add on the other costs, like shopping, alcohol, and little splurges here and there to understand how much exactly is needed.

Some may want to dive or ski, which are typically higher-cost activities, and some just want to walk around and explore neighborhoods. If you are on a shoestring budget, the suggested budgets can be cut down further should you choose to couchsurf, hitchhike, and skip certain activities.

Are there any destinations that you would add to this list? Let us know in the comments below!

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Nicoline says

01/03/2019 at 11:00 pm

There are so many of these places I would love to visit or revisit. Especially a Namibian road trip is on top of my bucket list and I hope that I can do it this year. 42$ per day is alright and the flight tickets from Denmark aren’t that bad right now – it must be a sign! ?

Kristin says

01/05/2019 at 9:12 am

It must be!

01/04/2019 at 9:09 pm

Bosnia is one of the cheapest places in Europe with so much to see! It’s a good deal cheaper than its neighbor Croatia.

Good to know! Thank you!

Anonymous says

04/25/2021 at 5:55 pm

Absolutely! Go hungry!! Food is excellent too!!

Jessa L says

06/10/2019 at 2:35 am

Excellent info but main thought regarding SE Asia, especially regarding Vietnamese street food: #1 many foreigners do not have the gut bacteria to fight off many forms of food poisoning that occurs from street food. #2 All the food in SE Asia has loads of MSG which immediately makes it NOT healthy. Sorry but there’s no cheap Vietnamese that can be considered healthy with the amount of MSG they put in the food. Tasty, yes. Addictive, yes. Healthy, ummm nope.

06/10/2019 at 6:54 am

Fact checking this. #1: The food is mostly bought fresh from the market each day and cooked right in front of you. If you go to a stand with lots of people eating there, you can trust it’s good for you, too. I have never had food poisoning after 7 years of traveling and eating street food. #2: I’ve seen the food made fresh from each raw ingredient and I also know what MSG looks like. I’ve seen it on the stands in China but not in Veitnam. I think it really depends on which stand you eat from, and if you’re worried about MSG the restaurants you eat at can just as easily, if not more easily, add it to the food. I wouldn’t avoid street food because of these reasons. Tourist restaurants serve the same thing, but often less fresh, for more money and you DON’T see it cooked in front of you.

09/09/2019 at 11:01 pm

I agree with your comments Kristen, its also easy to ask and or learn the local word to say dont put it in as a lot of stands will add a little MSG for “extra flavour”

01/17/2023 at 3:56 am

‘Hoom, Hoom, Ajinomoto’, is what to say if you don’t want MSG

Marissa says

01/20/2020 at 12:45 pm

Agreed. Kristen

Daniel says

01/11/2024 at 9:22 am

I am a US Citizen and often travel to Vietnam at least once a year and I believe you have no idea what you’re talking about. Do not eat food sold on the street or others food stands around the corner. You have no idea what they did to the pre-made ingredients that are served to you in front of you. Most of them do not even have gloves while handling YOUR foods. Most of the times, ingredients are prepared somewhere else and none are monitored as far as food safety is concerned. Anyone can prepare foods without any inspections or licenses requirements and sell to the public whenever, where ever they want!!! Rotten meats are often used to make egg rolls by adding artificial flavorings and fried until the bad smell is gone. Food stands are notorious for being dirty and contaminated badly because they do not have enough clean water to wash or sanitize utensils used to handle their foods. There was a big issue in Vietnam recently when a street vendor was caught “recycling” leftover from the previous customer and sell it to the next customer… Just google about food safety standards in Vietnam and you’ll know.

Kristin Addis says

01/11/2024 at 4:08 pm

If there’s a long line of locals eating there, and they’re bringing their kids there, I’m also going to eat there.

04/19/2020 at 11:09 pm

You clearly dont have a clue abour vietnamese food..they are not into Msg…dont get confuse them with China Mf

06/07/2020 at 10:28 pm

Jessa, I think you should educate yourself before taking such a strong opinion on MSG because you clearly don’t have your facts straight. Vietnamese food is pretty healthy whether or not there is MSG in it. MSG alone is simply not bad for you.

If you don’t believe me read this article:

https://health.usnews.com/health-news/blogs/eat-run/articles/2018-10-10/scientists-have-known-msg-is-safe-for-decades-why-dont-most-americans

07/29/2021 at 8:16 pm

So safe it will puff many up like a puffer fish. So safe.

Hugo Lindum says

02/07/2022 at 6:15 am

Street food is about as safe as it gets. Rarely had problems, nor do most people. As for MSG being bad, it must be the most researched food product in human history and no peer reviewed researched shows there is anything wrong with it. Even the EU says its safe. MSG being unsafe is up there with antivax and Elvis being alive on the moon.

12/21/2023 at 1:14 pm

i think it sounds really delicious and MSG is very healthy for you

Jonene Oxford says

02/25/2023 at 3:45 pm

Wish I could add the scientific info on here about MSG not being bad for your health. You should read up on it. You’d be surprised

Mohsen Ghiasi says

06/14/2019 at 7:48 am

Whay you dont write iran at the top man, its cheapest in the world with much more facility.

06/15/2019 at 9:17 am

As an American I can’t go there without taking a tour so to me it’s not that cheap, unfortunately 🙁

mark doty says

07/01/2020 at 6:18 pm

who in their right mind would go to Iran?

09/23/2020 at 1:33 pm

I lived there in the 70s and would love to go back to hike the mountains and ski again. Maybe someday.

02/07/2022 at 6:16 am

I would go there in the 1970s in a heart-beat. But today is 2022.

06/18/2019 at 7:45 am

Great list! Makes my bank account seem all that bigger 😉

06/18/2019 at 9:12 am

06/19/2019 at 9:36 am

Great list! You have been very helpful in getting some unique options together for a Christmas getaway for my husband and I! Although we will probably do AirBnB places instead of hostels, I feel like I have a much better idea of how far our money will go and tips on how to avoid being overcharged.

The biggest expense for me is always the flights since we live in Colorado, but I did find a really good website that has given me fares below what places like Expedia can offer called Skiplagged. If you haven’t checked it out, it can definitely save you some $$! I’m not affiliated with them or anything. Just thought I’d put it out there for other savvy travelers like me who are looking for the best deals!

06/19/2019 at 10:09 am

Thanks Lissa! I’d also suggest travel hacking! I have tips here: https://www.bemytravelmuse.com/how-to-fly-for-free/

Leena Malhotra says

06/23/2019 at 1:28 am

What about Russia ?

Russia is on my list for next year – it has so much to explore but can’t make it in a single trip. How about Russia from India ?

06/23/2019 at 9:45 am

I have heard the cities in Russia can be quite expensive but a few years ago the Ruble fell in value quite a bit which has made it much more affordable.

07/11/2019 at 5:59 am

Nice list. I am planning for Ukraine. Any specific suggestions

08/02/2019 at 12:27 pm

I have been to Ukraine many times so here is a rundown.

Kiev the capital historical city and very beautiful. Liviv cultural capital with some of the best food. Odessa seaside vacation hub and center of comedy.

Each city offers so much to see and do.

These are the cities that you are more likely find someone who speaks english, however I would recommend learning a couple of phrases. The people are hospitable but there still a language barrier.

08/03/2019 at 5:14 am

Thanks for the info!

07/17/2019 at 1:56 pm

Tanzania is pretty cheap too and the people here are very welcoming! You should try it out.

07/18/2019 at 12:05 pm

Agreed I love it there.

Brad Carss says

07/30/2019 at 6:57 pm

I love Namibia and persisted in my efforts to visit the Himba People in Opuwo by catching a taxi from my hostel in Windhoek to the pickup point for the van taking locals to the north of the country. There I arranged with the local tour hut (John Jakurama) to go on day and an overnight visit to the villages of these rarely visited people. It was a very cost-effective and engaging interaction to experience the harsh reality of their lives. At the end of my stay the elder of the family kissed my hand in blessing for seeking his village out and bringing them much needed food stuffs and supplies. My kind of travel, cheap, interactive, moving and low priority on most people’s destinations.

Augustin says

08/03/2019 at 2:16 am

You had already mentioned about a lot of places with less expensive, but the matter is that the flight charges are not economical to many of the destinations. I am from India and feel affordable rates with some southeastern Asian countries like Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, loas, Burma, Vietnam and Sri Lanka. The flight charges to these places are about 100 US Dollars with Air Asia flights, but it is really too high to Europe, Africa or America. This makes trips costlier. Anyway it is good exploring one.

08/03/2019 at 5:13 am

That’s true, I’m not taking into consideration where you might be flying in from, since we are all coming from different places, but once you get there it’s cheaper than other countries like Norway or Iceland.

08/03/2019 at 3:12 am

Hi! I have travelled before, I worked for a long haul airline and spent a few days in most countries. However, I really want to travel properly. What place would you recommend for newbie backpackers? Do you have any tips for me? Thanks 🙂

08/03/2019 at 5:12 am

Southeast Asia! https://www.bemytravelmuse.com/best-countries-for-beginner-travelers/

MikesRoadTrip says

08/05/2019 at 7:14 am

Really great piece!

08/17/2019 at 12:14 pm

It seems you generated this list based on where you went. I’m surprised Belorus, Russia, Abkhazia, Azerbaijan are not there

08/17/2019 at 12:19 pm

I haven’t been to most of these places, actually, but thanks for sharing more places that are affordable!

08/30/2019 at 7:47 pm

Pakistan is another beautiful country to visit and also very cheap. The Northern parts of Pakistan are full of natural beauty. People of Pakistan are very friendly and when you go there you will be amazed to find out that country is so different than what it is portrayed in NEWS. The hospitality of people there is simply amazing and food is simply awesome. Highly recommended place to visit.

09/02/2019 at 9:50 am

I’d love to visit!

Marianne says

10/09/2019 at 3:24 am

Hi! My boyfriend and I took a year off to travel Asia, and about 4 months in we have spent wayyy too much money (oops). We would like to settle down somewhere cheap for a month to try and make up for it. We are hoping to find somewhere close to the beach where the food is good. If there were some (free or cheap) things to do and see so we wouldn’t be too bored that would be even better. Does such a place even exist? ? I was thinking Cambodia, maybe, or Vietnam (cause I love Vietnamese food) but really anywhere in SE Asia would be perfect. Do you have any suggestions for a specific place like that you really loved?

Also, I love this blog, I have probably visited daily in the couple of years leading up to our trip ?

10/09/2019 at 10:22 am

Hey Marianne. It happens! I’d look at Southeast Asia for sure. I’d thought about Hoi An personally. The food is good, wifi is fast, it’s cheap. You can also think about Cambodia or even southern Thailand. You could think about Kuta in Lombok, Indonesia as well. Such a place definitely exists 🙂

Keep in mind it’s usually much cheaper to go check things out in person and ask around for places to rent longer term than it is to try to find them online.

Ian Culbertson says

10/13/2019 at 5:15 pm

Hi Kristin, I’d really like to do Incan trail in Peru to MP in December, any advice on tours for doing routes less traveled? Thanks Ian

10/19/2019 at 12:02 pm

If you want to do the Inca Trail unfortunately there’s just one trail and it’s not less-traveled, but there’s also the Lares trek and the Salkantay which will end up in Machu Picchu. I liked Alpaca Expeditions for the Inca Trail.

marla braden says

11/09/2019 at 11:18 am

I second Alpaca Expeditions. I did the Inca trail in December, not really high season. I got tickets when I got to Cusco (not 6 months advance) and our group of maybe 10 people plus the guides and porters were the only people I saw for 4 days until we arrived at Machu Picchu itself. Off season is the way to go anywhere, imo.

11/10/2019 at 11:36 am

Wow that’s amazing! Definitely wasn’t my experience. Nicely planned.

Renuka Walter says

12/06/2019 at 5:13 am

That’s a great list! I’m glad India is on the list. I have been exploring it for a decade now, and I agree it’s affordable and so rewarding! Would love to experience Romania.

12/06/2019 at 11:06 am

I’d love to experience India!

Md. Shakhawat Hossain says

01/08/2020 at 11:31 am

Hello there, Thank you very much for sharing a nice as well as the well-informative article here. The information you have described herewith was really amazing! However, if you allow me to add one more place to must-visit I would be glad, and the place name Bangladesh. The place of natural beauty and many more. And, also very cheap.

Thank you very much.

01/08/2020 at 7:01 pm

I’d love to go! Yes it should be on the list.

neymasport says

01/14/2020 at 8:18 pm

Thank you for sharing the colorful collection here, thank you for this article. This country is very beautiful. Hope to come here and try it once  

Nikola Webster says

01/22/2020 at 6:10 pm

Hi there, Wow – super-comprehensive list! I’ve been to more than half on this list. A couple I have on my list to visit that I’m told a super cheap (even cheaper than India) are Pakistan and Bangladesh. I’ve also heard Laos is wicked cheap! Nikki

01/22/2020 at 8:12 pm

I’d love to see Pakistan too! Laos is indeed pretty cheap.

Doona Neace says

02/04/2020 at 1:44 am

You recommended most of the places are on my list. Next year I want to visit Croatia and Turkey.

02/15/2020 at 6:31 pm

This is such a great list which really breaks down the costs and saves a lot of research time! Thanks for sharing.

02/16/2020 at 10:55 am

Thanks for such a great post! And thanks for sharing your valuable experiences. I already traveled to Most of EA countries but i have no any idea for african and S. American countries, i will use this post for my future plan.

05/03/2020 at 11:11 am

Wow, that’s article is amazing. I did not know that you can travel to places this cheap. This article chsnge the way I look at traveling. I have always thought it costly as I spend a lot when traveling, but after reading this things have changed.

takeoffwithme says

05/08/2020 at 7:21 am

Very nice article. Will be really helpful for backpackers

Vaishnavi Omprakash Jadhav says

07/08/2020 at 4:38 am

There is lot more in INDIA. Do come. We have a lot more than expected.

Samson says

08/21/2020 at 5:38 am

How is the Covid-19 situation there?

08/21/2020 at 5:39 am

How is the Covid-19 situation in India?

08/29/2020 at 4:32 am

Great article. Thanks

Greg Christensen says

09/03/2020 at 9:11 am

Recently did southern Utah (from OH) for 6 weeks and spent 9000 dolllars … that’s about 200 dollars per day. Gasoline 1500 (8000 miles), hotels and campsites 1200, NP pass and BLM trail fees 100, topo maps/books/gifts 400, my own jeep routine and unexpected service 500, jeep rubicon 4WD 10 day rental for The Maze 1950, 4WD and backpacking supplies 400, laundry 50, food/beverages/snacks/water 2900. Biggest expenses are always food from restaurants and the remote expensive trips that are hard to access.

09/03/2020 at 9:40 am

Yes restaurants can be a lot. If you have to rent the 4×4 yes that really adds up!

Amogue says

09/15/2020 at 3:54 am

all this country are awesome I am going ti visit vietnam after the covid situation

10/09/2020 at 2:22 pm

Maybe Nicaragua is not safe, but I think it’s way safer than Guatemala. Please, be careful if planning to travel to any of this countries. Specially women travelling alone.

Michelle says

11/30/2020 at 12:03 pm

Yes, very surprised you didn’t include Morocco! Marrakech (or Casablanca) can get expensive if you want the most luxurious accommodations/prefer gambling, but overall a very cheap country to travel. You can get around easily if you wish to visit multiple cities, for as little as $8 or so intercity. (overnight sleeper trains will cost a bit more) You can even fly from Madrid or Lisbon to Marrakech for around $100 if you know where to look 🙂 I’d say to definitely visit Marrakech, Fes, and Chefchaouen if you are not sure where to travel. Stay in riads or hostels. Walk around the souks, and take in all the sights the cities have to offer. Getting to the desert is a little more difficult and costly, but worth the experience if it is something you have always dreamed of doing!

12/03/2020 at 8:57 am

Good to know!

Catherine says

05/16/2021 at 5:54 am

India very risky for woman, last time I went there was groped, not once but multiple times. In india get used to man staring at your cleavage, boobs and ass all the time.

01/12/2023 at 8:24 pm

Did that happen in North India?

08/17/2023 at 3:52 am

Only in Punjab . Rest of India is very safe

Linniey???? says

05/22/2021 at 7:51 pm

Thank you for sharing… Very interesting and nice places for backpakers… South Korea is also very cheap and beautiful nature for nature lovers… ????

Tina Hallmark says

07/15/2021 at 2:27 pm

I know you are already bogged down with reply’s and on to your next adventure but I wanted to pick your brain. Myself, husband and our daughter, age 10 want to spend a month next year in another country (if all goes well, we may make it into an annual thing). We are great outdoors, we love food, we love history and love animals and we are all well traveled. We would like to pick our first month long trip for June 2022 (climate has to be below average of 85 degrees F). Basically we can’t decide on where we should go to stay around 10k for all 3 of us and how best planning for a month in a country. Any insight would be wonderful! We have thought about Bali/Philippians, Greece or Italy but I saw you mention Namibia and that sounds wonderful too! PS We do not want to stay in hostiles. Thank you for any information you may want to send our way! Tina

07/17/2021 at 12:40 pm

I’m not sure all of those places fall under your temperature requirements but it really depends on what kind of experience you want. I think they could all be wonderful.

02/20/2022 at 4:29 pm

03/01/2022 at 11:02 pm

Excuse me, but Georgia is not in Europe!! It is part of the Caucasus, which is in Asia. And as for Vietnam & most of southeast asia, can we say KRAITS!!! You fail to mention this very big danger…many people have gotten bitten by these snakes and died! Last but not least, that chicken or pork you get in Taiwan and China: might be DOG or CAT!!! Think about that B4 you scarf down just any streetfood!!

03/02/2022 at 11:19 am

lol I don’t think they’re eating cat or dog in Taiwan and I don’t know a soul who has been bitten by that snake you mention.

12/21/2023 at 1:21 pm

John im glad you got all your anger out on this message but no one really cares and all u did was waste everyones time thanks a lot JOHN!!

07/14/2022 at 9:22 pm

Ukraine really?

07/23/2022 at 11:50 am

Prior to the current situation it was a great place to travel, and it will be again one day.

Grace Christopher says

01/22/2023 at 9:01 am

I would love if someone can put me through how to go about the process of applying to any of the country mentioned above. That is work visa

01/26/2023 at 6:38 am

Hi I am planning to travel to Greece combined with some islands. Could you please tell me more about which places and accommodations you recommend and suggest. I will be traveling with my 21 year old son .

07/01/2023 at 9:54 am

Hi Nora: Recommend looking at this great BMYM post: 31 of the Absolute Best Things to Do in Greece It includes a huge variety of things to do which I am sure your 21 year old son would enjoy too! Also, in BMTM website, click on “Destinations” at the top of this page and pick “Greece” and it has other great resources! Good luck!

Austin A. McCary says

06/02/2023 at 8:27 pm

This article on the cheapest destinations to travel to is a goldmine of budget travel inspiration! I appreciate the thorough breakdown of affordable destinations across different continents. The inclusion of budget-friendly activities and accommodation options is incredibly helpful for planning a cost-effective trip. I’m excited to explore some of these destinations that offer incredible experiences without breaking the bank. Thanks for sharing this valuable resource!

Mani Venkat says

05/09/2024 at 2:59 am

Nice blog!!! Thanks for information

How To Travel The World Cheap: 57 Epic Budget Travel Hacks for 2024!

There are lots of practices you can adopt in order to travel the world cheap . The most effective ways are to take advantage of Airmiles, exchange work for free food and accommodation, have a well researched travel plan and to be savvy with bank cards and money exchanges.

Since 2008 I’ve travelled all over the world on a fairly tight budget, often working as I go. In this guide I want to share 57 cheap travel hacks that I’ve picked up which will have you exploring the globe for less.

So, let’s get straight into it!

Transportation Travel Tips & Hacks

1. Flight booking hacks. One of the biggest initial costs when travelling is your flight ticket. So in order to travel cheap, use flight comparisons sites such as Kiwi . You may find booking directly through the airline is cheaper but always use a price comparison engine to check before you book.

Pro Tip : Make sure to clear your cookies and browsing history to avoid price increases. By searching for flights you are signalling to the world that you are looking to buy, so prices will then increase daily in order to get you to panic buy. Delete cookies or browse in incognito mode to avoid this. @import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Inter&family=Inter:wght@500&family=Noto+Serif&family=Noto+Serif:wght@500&display=swap'); .tp_wrapper { font-family: 'Inter', sans-serif; /* the font, can be replaced with 'Noto Serif' */ max-width: 1024px; } .tp_content { background-color: #DEE9F0; /* main block background color */ padding: 24px 32px 32px; } .tp_subtitle { margin: 0 0 16px; font-size: 22px; font-weight: 500; } .tp_text { font-size: 17px; font-weight: 400; line-height: 145%; margin: 0; } .tp_button { display: inline-block; background: #2A243B; border-radius: 6px; box-sizing: border-box; cursor: pointer; color: #fff; font-size: 20px; margin-top: 24px; padding: 12px 32px; text-decoration: none; }

2. Try changing the home location of flight booking websites to see if purchasing in another currency is cheaper.

3. One of the cheapest ways to travel is through offering to get bumped off a flight in exchange for a flight voucher. These can be seriously rewarding! Companies will regularly overbook flights on the assumption that people will cancel or not show up. On those times when this doesn’t happen the airlines need to free up seats quick, and that’s where you step in!

4. For short trips choose carry on only or if you need to check baggage, pay for it online before you travel. Airlines will often charge more at the airport.

5. Save on rail travel costs by using railcards. I saved a ton through using the Japan Rail Pass during one visit, however they only save money if you use them to the full so do the research first.  Also consider using overnight trains to save on accommodation costs. This works great in some countries such as India and is an awesome local experience too.

6. If you feel comfortable, consider hitchhiking. Alternatively, connect with other travellers at your hostel to carpool.

7. If you have a flexible plan, investigate relocating vehicles to get free or discounted car hire.

Consider renting a car with Rentalcars , an international car rental booking service that is present all over the world. With Rentalcars you will definitely find a perfect car for your perfect trip wherever you are.

8. When travelling for long periods save money through walking or using buses, instead of using expensive taxis. Use ride sharing apps such as Uber, Lyft, Cabify and Grab. Uber opened the door for cheap car journeys but now there are lots of different companies operating all over the world. Research which ones are best for the areas you’re traveling too and download the app before you go.

9. One of the biggest ways to traveling on the cheap by far, is to use an Airmiles credit card. Every time you spend money with that credit card you will be earning Airmile points which can be exchanged for flights. Just remember to always pay off your credit card every month to avoid high interest fees.

10. Create frequent flyer accounts with every airline you travel with then sit back and enjoy the rewards.

11. A top sneaky travel hack is to jump on airline price errors. Sometimes airfares can pop up at crazy low prices, often caused by a glitch in the Matrix (or something!). If you manage to purchase one of these flights the airline will often honour the incorrect price. Act fast and take advantage of these opportunities by following these ninja websites:

• Secret flying.com
• Jacks Flight Club (UK) or Scott’s Cheap Flights (US)
• The Flight Deal

12. Pack light and smart to avoid excess baggage fees. Roll your clothes or use packing cubes to save on space.

13. Take advantage of layovers to enjoy a quick city visit without any extra flight costs.

14. Try booking two one-way trips rather than a return. I’ve had success with this on flights and rail trips.

15. Keep receipts for gift purchases and claim back the tax at the airport before you leave the country.

16. Travel by campervan. If you’re looking to explore your own country (or continent), consider buying a campervan to combine your method of transportation with your accommodation. My campervan has been one of the best investments I’ve ever made and I can highly recommend it. For all the latest info on converting your own campervan check out my van life section .

Accommodation Travel Hacks

17. Get cheap or free accommodation through housesitting . With housesitting you will generally look after the persons house whilst they are away. Many housesitting jobs often include pet sitting.

18. Get free accommodation and learn all about life from a local through couch surfing .

19. Pick accommodation with free breakfast to save on food costs.

20. Choose private hostel rooms instead of more expensive hotels.

🏨 Where can I find the cheapest hostels?

You will definitely find the hostel you need with Hostelworld , the global hostel-focused online booking platform, inspires passionate travelers to see the world, meet new people, and come back with extraordinary stories to tell.

21. Use booking.com ‘s price matching promise to get the best price on hotels.

22. Travelling on a special occasion? Be sure to let your hotel know and they might offer you a free upgrade.

Work Abroad

23. Exchange work for accommodation and/or food with companies such as Workaway or World packers. Or, if you want to learn about organic growing, check out WWOOF .

24. Earn a passive income to support yourself whilst travelling. There are so many ways to get a side hustle going these days but some examples include;

• Selling your photos on stock photography websites such as Dreamstime or Shutterstock.
• Starting a website. Make sure you use a fast and reliable host. For my websites I use Siteground .
• Selling your photos directly with a website that does it all for you. I use Smugmug .
• Teaching English online.

25. Join a voluntary programme abroad for example VSO. Many volunteer programmes charge a fee and in return they will provide accommodation, food and training. There are volunteer programmes all over the world in all sorts of different professions. For example, I joined the American Conservation Experience as I was interested in conservation and wanted to explore the South West . Here are some other ideas to explore .

26. Work in a travel job, for example as a tour guide with Contiki, Exodus or Backroads. For adventure travel consider life as an Overland Leader. I’ve worked as an overland leader for severn years and have travelled extensively through Asia, Africa and the Americas. Read more about this job here . If you have a particular trade you can also work on cruise ships or private yachts.

27. Work abroad with a work visa. Below the age of 30 work visas for many countries are quite straight forward to get. Whilst in that country you can then pick up temporary work which is usually unskilled, such as fruit picking, retail or a bar work.

After a certain age, usually 30, some countries will still allow you to work but will require work visas for specific professions, for example as a ski instructor or scuba dive instructor.

Alternatively you could get your TEFL certificate and teach English abroad. This can also be done remotely, online.

28. Do your job online. Can your work be done remotely? Post Covid it seems like more companies are exploring this as a full time option so this could open new avenues for many. If you have a service that can be provided online you could also offer your services on Craigslist or Fivrr. 

Destination Tips For Budget Travel

29. A cheap way to travel is to visit destinations where your home currency is strong. You’ll benefit from a strong exchange rate and from cheaper costs of living.

30. Whilst you’re on a tight budget, skip destinations with expensive visas.

31. Stick to one region at a time to avoid air travel costs. When I first went travelling I booked a round the world air ticket thinking I could see the world in 6 months. Boy did I have a lot to learn! Pick one region to fully explore first before moving onto the next. Don’t do what I did and be in a hurry to see everything all at once.

32. Travel during the shoulder season to benefit from lower costs and avoid the crowds at the same time – double win!

Food Travel Hacks To Save Money

33. Cook your own food. One of the best ways to travel around the world for cheap is to limit the amount you spend of food. Now don’t get me wrong I am a complete foodie and believe one of the best things about travelling is experiencing new types of cuisine. However, eating new types of food doesn’t mean going to the most expensive restaurants, in fact it’s often the opposite. But travelling on a limited budget does mean it’s not possible to eat out everyday since the cheapest way to eat often involves cooking your own food. Therefore choose accommodation with kitchens included such as hostels or rent an apartment.

34. Jump on happy hours and all you can eat deals.

35. Eat out at delicious and cheap street food stalls with the locals.

36. Avoid restaurants near popular tourist spots as these will often be overpriced.

37. Limit your alcohol if you have a limited budget.  Alcohol is often expensive and isn’t a necessity.

38. Use a filtered water bottle and never buy water again. Check out this guide to discover which filtered water bottle I recommend for travel .

39. Stealth budget travel hack: Use chewing gum or tic tac containers to transport your favourite spices. Cheap food doesn’t have to be bland!

Planning Tips For How To Travel On The Cheap

40. Set a budget and stick to it. But be sure to include a generous contingency to allow for times when things don’t go to plan or to cover a once in a lifetime opportunity if it arrises. 

41. If you are travelling on a tight budget you need to make a plan before you leave. List your priorities before you set off and refer to the list once you’re on the road. That way you won’t get sucked into doing expensive tours that you weren’t interested in anyway. Check out Google Maps Trip Planner for a great free trip planning tool.

42. Research whether activities you want to enjoy are cheaper to book in advance or are best left open and flexible. Last minute trips can sometimes work out cheaper.

43. If you don’t want the hassle of planning a trip use a travel agent. They know what they’re doing and can often find you the best deals.

44. Get smart and savvy with city tourist cards which provide entrance fees for multiple sites. If you know you’re going to visit all the top sites these will definitely save you money overall. 

45. Enjoy free city walking tours. I’ve enjoyed great free city tours in Galway and Yerevan to name just two. But of course they’re not completely free – don’t forget to tip!

46. Research entrance prices beforehand to avoid getting scammed. However, just be aware of what the local currency is doing as prices can jump up if a currency weakens.

47. Follow your favourite travel companies on social media to learn about special promotions or giveaways.

Money Top Tips For Traveling Cheap

48. Get smart on money Exchange. Never change money at the airport or at busy tourist spots as these will have the worst rates. Hotels or hostels may also offer exchanges which again typically aren’t the best rates but they are safe and convenient so way up the risks/benefits of both.

49. An easy but important cheap way to travel is to use a travel card or join a bank with no overseas fees. This way you can hit the ATM without getting hit with overseas withdrawal fees. I use Starling Bank which is an online bank. All of my transactions are managed online via an app. Also, if purchasing online, they don’t charge for overseas transactions and have decent exchange rates.

50. Haggle but don’t be a d**k! Some cultures embrace bartering, expect it even, but these local people also have to support themselves so don’t be the person that walks away from a purchase for the sake of a dollar! 

51. Use donatefull.com or groupon.com to find best coupons or use wikibuy to apply coupon codes at checkout.

52. A top life hack for travelling is to purchase a Scrubba bag and save on laundry bills. This nifty little bag packs down really small so doesn’t take up any room in your luggage and with just a 3 minute shake, can wash your clothes as good as any washing machine!

53. Keep rechargeable batteries in the fridge or at least in shady places. Rechargeable batteries retain 90% of their full charge if they’re kept cold. Not freezer cold though as this will have the opposite effect.

Phone and Internet

54. Get a local sim card and avoid hefty roaming fees. In some countries these can be a rather involved process but for most it’s quite straight forward. You often need your passport to register the sim card.

55. Use offline maps to save data. I use maps.me for most places when I’m travelling.

56. Consider investing in your own wifi router if you require a good connection. In our campervan we use this super fast Huawei wifi travel hotspot which allows us to connect multiple devices in areas where signal is typically poor.

Travel Insurance

57. Last but by no means least, get yourself some good travel insurance. Travel insurance can be expensive for long trips but you just never know when you might need it. The world of insurance can be a minefield but the guys at SafetyWing do great deals for long term travel through allowing you pay on a month by month basis. I highly recommend checking them out.

Summary On How To Travel The World Cheaply

Travelling around the world cheaply can do be done in many ways but it often requires a good amount of planning in advance. Be prepared for your trip through investigating the best deals, signing up for Airmile credit cards and joining frequent flyer programmes. Consider exchanging work for accommodation and reduce food costs through cooking your own food. Ensure you have the best bank cards to avoid big transaction fees, choose destinations where your currency is strong and use local Sim cards for the best phone and internet deals.

Through incorporating even just a few of these cheap travel tips you’ll be well on your way to exploring further, for longer 🙂

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Louise is an Adventure Tour Guide & Mountain Leader from South Wales. Through working as a tour guide and snowboard instructor, she has spent the last 15 years travelling Asia, Africa and the Americas. Louise is a published photographer and is currently based in the UK.

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• Citizen Science departures available on this trip

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• Discover the four distinctive capital cities of Budapest, Bratislava, Vienna and Prague
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London to Istanbul Rail Adventure

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Imperial Escape

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• On this guided vacation of Central Europe, experience the rich history and most popular destinations without the crowds—and even better—without the high-season prices
• This Central Europe escorted tour is a magnificent journey through the former Habsburg Empire offering romantic castles, churches, villas and modern architecture, vineyards, breweries, first-class shopping, art, and culinary delights

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South American Odyssey with Amazon & Peru

• Rio de janeiro : Cable-car ride up Sugar Loaf Mountain and Sugar Loaf cocktail party; sightseeing with a Local Guide; visit Corcovado Mountain and the cathedral; Churrascaria dinner
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• Buenos aires : Walking tour; visit the Metropolitan Cathedral and Recoleta Cemetery; empanada cooking class; Tango lesson & show; visit a local estancia
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Diverse Experiences on Around the World Tour 

• Meeting locals from several different countries and discovering wonderful similarities and differences
• Seeing whales breach from the balcony of your cruise stateroom and diving and snorkeling in vibrant coral reefs like the Great Barrier reef
• Enjoying local cuisines, exploring street food markets, and taking cooking classes to learn how to make traditional national dishes
• Wandering around many archaeological ruins and historical sites like Machu Picchu , pyramids of Giza , and the historical city of Petra
• Discovering unique cultures and taking part in traditional festivals or ceremonies like Holi or Día de Muertos 
• Hiking among different landscapes, encountering majestic wildlife on African Safaris , and taking memorable pictures
• Making lifelong friends from around the world
• Indulging in luxury around the world trips featuring traditional Japanese ryokan, floating hotels in the Maldives, or ice hotels in Sweden for a unique experience.
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Around the World Tours & Travel

Around the World Attractions & Landmarks Guide

World travel is truly one of the most unforgettable experiences. As you visit multiple countries and continents, you gain a deep understanding of hundreds of cultures and forge wonderful connections with people around the world.

A small ship or 'expedition' cruise is one of the most popular modes of travel for a trip around the world. Many young people opt for overland tours to see the world because of budget and the community style. They usually use a few different modes of travel like trains or buses or join small group tours to individual destinations. 

You can also design a custom round-the-world trip to suit your preferences for price, duration, accommodation, and more. Choose the countries you wish to visit and super-personalize your world tour for the activities you enjoy. 

Luxury Around the World Trips

Imagine waking up in lavish four or five-star accommodations, imbibed with unmatched comfort and elegance. Think boutique lodges nestled in scenic landscapes to high-end homestays steeped in local charm!

That's the essence of our exclusively curated around-the-world luxury tours. Choose one of our private guided world tours to explore iconic landmarks, access hidden gems, and indulge in gastronomic experiences redefining culinary pleasure. 

Raise the bar for your travel experience—personalize your world trip and enjoy unparalleled service at every stop tailored to your preferences. 

How Long Should You Go For?

A round-the-world trip typically takes longer than a week or two. Your world tour should not be much shorter than one month. 

With one month to go around the world, you'll probably stick to one broad region. Long trips are a great way to really learn the nuances and extensiveness of human and geological history and how pronounced they can be in a relatively small area. You'll also gain a unique insight into fascinating cultural similarities and differences.

Most trips around the world are a bit longer than one month, typically between two and four months. The number of countries and continents you'll visit on your world tour can vary quite a bit, mainly based on how you get from place to place and the length of excursion allotted for by the itinerary.

How Much Does a Trip Around the World Cost?

One of the benefits of traveling on a package tour around the world is the cost-cutting aspect. Typically, some of your meals will be covered, along with a good amount of transportation and almost all accommodations (this is an excellent reason to book a small ship cruise).

In addition, your tour will have many activities planned to explore the culture and history of each destination, as well as enjoy the natural beauty with hikes and other exciting outdoor ventures. These activities are not always included in the price, which can be a good thing as it allows you to join as many or as few activities as you'd like, depending on your preferences. 

Typically, airfare to and from the start city and ending city to your final destination is not included in the tour price, but after that, you can expect to save a lot in expenses.

Note that you'll be around the same group of people for a very extended period, and your ability to be flexible in each destination will be limited. If you want to stay longer or shorter, this isn't typically an option.

Planning a Trip Around the World on Your Own

Traveling around the world on your own is an entirely different ball game. Transportation and accommodation are usually challenging to budget around. Budget hotels can help; however, finding a good deal can be tiresome. Travel agents can help, but this typically comes with a premium.

Certain airlines offer special round-the-world tickets, which could be an excellent way to book an independent trip around the world if you have miles to cash in. Otherwise, you're a bit stuck with the one-way ticket route. Try booking smaller airlines and shorter flights to keep costs manageable.

Choosing your destination and activities also requires a ton of research. You could spend a hefty amount of time trying to plan this yourself.

How To Pack for a Trip Around the World?

Ironically, you will be better off packing less than more for a longer journey. As you'll be on the move, you want a lighter suitcase and backpack to deal with. It's both more comfortable to move and far easier to store.

That's one significant benefit of traveling by cruise when you go around the world: the luxury of only unpacking once and being able to do laundry on board. You can lock your stateroom, so there's no worry about theft as you roam the boat and enjoy your shore excursions.

• Winter vs Summer Weather:    Since your tour around the world is likely to cross hemisphere lines more than once, you may experience warm highs and icy lows during your trip — bring clothing that can layer easily. 
• Shoes:    Footwear can easily become a packing challenge since it can take up a lot of space in suitcases. Choose shoes according to the planned activities and terrains. Pack a versatile selection: a pair for relaxation, one for hiking, another for city strolls, and one for a more refined option. 
• Dress Like a Local:    The beauty of a trip around the world is the opportunity to visit many far-flung places with diverse cultures and ways of life. You may encounter many different cultures, some with specific dress expectations. For example, in most Middle Eastern countries, expect to dress modestly—cover shoulders and legs and keep a scarf handy for covering your head. A similar dressing is also a good rule for touring many religious establishments.

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Brilliant trip.

This is a well designed trip giving an excellent overview of all three Baltic states. This not only included the capital cities but other towns and much countrysid...

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A bit of a whirlwind tour although the three Baltic States relatively small, green and flat. I knew virtually nothing about them before I went but learned a lot ...

Great holiday

Really interesting trip made extra special by our guide Melia, whose knowledge was incredible. We were really lucky with the weather and had a really good group o...

Explore and discover the Baltics

I enjoyed discovering an area of Europe I knew little about. Visiting many areas of all 3 countries. Guide well organized and itinerary good. Only problems were T...

Three small countries with a lot of character

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2025 departure dates for our Italy tours are now live on the site! 🇮🇹⁠ ⁠ 📍Best of Italy: Embark on a journey through Italy`s iconic cities of Venice, Florence, and Rome, blending must-see sightseeing with enriching local experiences. Led by an expert guide, indulge in Tuscan wine tastings, savor regional specialties, and immerse yourself in the rich history of ancient Rome for an immersive Italian adventure. Enrich your experience with an extension on the gorgeous Amalfi coast. 🌴⁠ ⁠ 📍Flavors of Sicily- Our newest Italian Adventure that keeps selling out! Embark on an unforgettable culinary and cultural journey through Sicily, exploring UNESCO sites like Agrigento`s Valley of the Temples and the Baroque towns of Ragusa and Noto. With a seasoned guide, discover Sicilian culture through its diverse cuisine, from panelle to pistachios, for an authentic and memorable exploration. Check another country off your bucket list by adding an extension in Malta 🇲🇹⁠ ⁠ Book early & save 10% on 2025 tours to Italy for a limited time! Link in bio to book.

Happy Mother`s Day to all the phenomenal moms, in whatever form they may be! Today, we honor the remarkable women who bring light into our lives each day. ✨ Tag the extraordinary women you`d love to embark on adventures with! Here`s to a day filled with joy and celebration! ⁠

#smarTeam Spotlight: Product Manager Katie just returned from an epic adventure to Morocco!⁠ ⁠ "It was truly a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. From traversing snow-capped peaks one day, to a camel ride through the desert the next, each moment was a breathtaking exploration. Thanks to the small group size and our amazing tour director Mohammed, we got to experience hidden gems that other tours might overlook." As a solo traveler joining a group tour, Katie recalled that it "allowed me the chance to forge deep connections with my fellow travelers and also with myself." ⁠ ⁠ Her favorite experience was the cooking workshop held on the terrace of a villa nestled in the Atlas Mountains. There, they handpicked fresh produce, indulged in spice tasting, and collaborated with the chef to craft a splendid dinner.⁠ ⁠ Learn more about our Majestic Morocco tour: link in bio⁠

We`re celebrating Mother`s Day a little early with a special feature on the smart blog! Meet #smarTraveler Linda, who has shared the joy of exploring with her kids on three unforgettable tours. From her own words: `Traveling as a family creates timeless memories, witnessing the world through their eyes is a true privilege.` 💖 Click the link in bio to read more.

Last Minute Monday Deals! Save big on these amazing destinations departing soon. ✈️⁠ ⁠ 📍Jewels of the Adriatic; Departs Jun. 20 ⬅️ $450 off⁠ 📍Magical Ireland: Departs Jun. 21 ⬅️ $500 off⁠ 📍Amazing Thailand; Departs Jul. 6 ⬅️ $450 off⁠ ⁠ Book your last minute adventure 👉🏻Link in bio⁠ ⁠ 📸 #smarTraveler Louis in Thailand

Smart Fact 📕 Did you know that the Viñales Valley in Cuba is not only renowned for its breathtaking landscapes but also for its world-class tobacco cultivation? Thanks to the unique microclimate and fertile soil, Viñales produces some of the finest tobacco leaves globally, coveted by cigar aficionados worldwide. 🇨🇺⁠ ⁠

"Excellent tour! Guidry was an outstanding guide. We saw the Northern Lights and a whale on the same night - pretty amazing! Don’t worry if you’re not going to the Blue Lagoon; the replacement is phenomenal!" -#smarTraveler Irene⁠ ⁠ Dreaming of Iceland? Our Spirit of Iceland tour hits the highlights in 6 days, from Reykjavik to Thingvellir National Park.

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Save money on airfare by searching for cheap flight tickets on KAYAK. KAYAK searches for flight deals on hundreds of airline tickets sites to help you find the cheapest flights. Whether you are looking for a last minute flight or a cheap plane ticket for a later date, you can find the best deals faster at KAYAK.

New York Flights

• Flight Chicago - New York (ORD - LGA) $40+
• Flight Miami - Newark (MIA - EWR) $40+
• Flight Fort Lauderdale - Newark (FLL - EWR) $51+
• Flight Atlanta - Newark (ATL - EWR) $53+
• Flight Orlando - Newark (MCO - EWR) $55+
• Flight Fort Lauderdale - New York (FLL - LGA) $57+
• Flight Atlanta - New York (ATL - LGA) $64+
• Flight Orlando - New York (MCO - LGA) $65+
• Flight Dallas - New York (DFW - LGA) $85+
• Flight Dallas - Newark (DFW - EWR) $87+
• Flight Houston - New York (HOU - LGA) $87+
• Flight Houston - Newark (HOU - EWR) $91+
• Flight Chicago - Newark (ORD - EWR) $96+
• Flight Miami - New York (MIA - JFK) $115+
• Flight Chicago - New York (ORD - JFK) $127+
• Flight Los Angeles - New York (LAX - LGA) $135+
• Flight Los Angeles - Newark (LAX - EWR) $144+
• Flight Dallas - New York (DFW - JFK) $194+
• Flight San Francisco - New York (SFO - LGA) $215+
• Flight Los Angeles - New York (LAX - JFK) $238+
• Flight San Francisco - Newark (SFO - EWR) $246+
• Flight Seattle - Newark (SEA - EWR) $246+
• Flight San Francisco - New York (SFO - JFK) $267+
• Flight Seattle - New York (SEA - JFK) $297+

Orlando Flights

• Flight Atlanta - Orlando (ATL - MCO) $36+
• Flight Baltimore - Orlando (BWI - MCO) $43+
• Flight Philadelphia - Orlando (PHL - MCO) $43+
• Flight Cleveland - Orlando (CLE - MCO) $51+
• Flight Newark - Orlando (EWR - MCO) $51+
• Flight Raleigh - Orlando (RDU - MCO) $58+
• Flight Houston - Orlando (IAH - MCO) $59+

London Flights

• Flight New York - London (JFK - LGW) $310+
• Flight New Windsor - London (SWF - STN) $345+
• Flight New York - London (JFK - LHR) $346+
• Flight Boston - London (BOS - LGW) $404+
• Flight Boston - London (BOS - LHR) $433+
• Flight New York - London (LGA - LHR) $449+
• Flight Newark - London (EWR - LHR) $453+
• Flight Washington, D.C. - London (IAD - LHR) $455+
• Flight Miami - London (MIA - LHR) $456+

Fort Lauderdale Flights

• Flight Atlanta - Fort Lauderdale (ATL - FLL) $30+
• Flight Newark - Fort Lauderdale (EWR - FLL) $39+
• Flight Philadelphia - Fort Lauderdale (PHL - FLL) $39+
• Flight Baltimore - Fort Lauderdale (BWI - FLL) $40+
• Flight Chicago - Fort Lauderdale (ORD - FLL) $40+
• Flight Atlantic City - Fort Lauderdale (ACY - FLL) $44+
• Flight Cleveland - Fort Lauderdale (CLE - FLL) $46+

Boston Flights

• Flight Baltimore - Boston (BWI - BOS) $40+
• Flight Charlotte - Boston (CLT - BOS) $44+
• Flight Chicago - Boston (ORD - BOS) $62+
• Flight Fort Lauderdale - Boston (FLL - BOS) $62+
• Flight Orlando - Boston (MCO - BOS) $63+
• Flight Philadelphia - Boston (PHL - BOS) $68+
• Flight Atlanta - Boston (ATL - BOS) $74+

India Flights

• Flight New York - New Delhi (JFK - DEL) $580+
• Flight New York - Mumbai (JFK - BOM) $583+
• Flight San Francisco - New Delhi (SFO - DEL) $649+
• Flight San Francisco - Bengaluru (SFO - BLR) $650+
• Flight San Francisco - Mumbai (SFO - BOM) $650+
• Flight Boston - Mumbai (BOS - BOM) $683+
• Flight Seattle - New Delhi (SEA - DEL) $707+

Japan Flights

• Flight New York - Tokyo (JFK - NRT) $599+
• Flight New York - Tokyo (JFK - HND) $616+
• Flight Los Angeles - Tokyo (LAX - NRT) $637+
• Flight San Francisco - Tokyo (SFO - NRT) $638+
• Flight Seattle - Tokyo (SEA - NRT) $738+
• Flight Houston - Tokyo (HOU - NRT) $742+
• Flight Los Angeles - Tokyo (LAX - HND) $748+

Phoenix Flights

• Flight Ontario - Phoenix (ONT - PHX) $38+
• Flight Dallas - Phoenix (DFW - PHX) $39+
• Flight Los Angeles - Phoenix (LAX - PHX) $53+
• Flight Salt Lake City - Phoenix (SLC - PHX) $55+
• Flight Portland - Phoenix (PDX - PHX) $60+
• Flight Santa Ana - Phoenix (SNA - PHX) $67+
• Flight Seattle - Phoenix (SEA - PHX) $68+

Honolulu Flights

• Flight Los Angeles - Honolulu (LAX - HNL) $216+
• Flight San Diego - Honolulu (SAN - HNL) $253+
• Flight Ontario - Honolulu (ONT - HNL) $258+
• Flight San Francisco - Honolulu (SFO - HNL) $267+
• Flight San Jose - Honolulu (SJC - HNL) $267+
• Flight Oakland - Honolulu (OAK - HNL) $277+
• Flight Las Vegas - Honolulu (LAS - HNL) $351+

Los Angeles Flights

• Flight Salt Lake City - Los Angeles (SLC - LAX) $39+
• Flight Oakland - Los Angeles (OAK - LAX) $40+
• Flight San Francisco - Los Angeles (SFO - LAX) $44+
• Flight San Jose - Los Angeles (SJC - LAX) $62+
• Flight Minneapolis - Los Angeles (MSP - LAX) $67+
• Flight Dallas - Los Angeles (DFW - LAX) $75+
• Flight Portland - Los Angeles (PDX - LAX) $83+
• Flight Seattle - Los Angeles (SEA - LAX) $83+
• Flight Baltimore - Los Angeles (BWI - LAX) $101+

Chicago Flights

• Flight Fort Lauderdale - Chicago (FLL - ORD) $40+
• Flight New York - Chicago (LGA - ORD) $40+
• Flight Atlanta - Chicago (ATL - MDW) $47+
• Flight Atlanta - Chicago (ATL - ORD) $50+
• Flight Philadelphia - Chicago (PHL - ORD) $56+
• Flight Denver - Chicago (DEN - ORD) $58+
• Flight Boston - Chicago (BOS - ORD) $61+

Denver Flights

• Flight Minneapolis - Denver (MSP - DEN) $58+
• Flight Ontario - Denver (ONT - DEN) $61+
• Flight Chicago - Denver (ORD - DEN) $62+
• Flight Houston - Denver (IAH - DEN) $78+
• Flight Dallas - Denver (DFW - DEN) $84+
• Flight Philadelphia - Denver (PHL - DEN) $86+
• Flight Cincinnati - Denver (CVG - DEN) $87+

Washington, D.C. Flights

• Flight Atlanta - Baltimore (ATL - BWI) $38+
• Flight Boston - Baltimore (BOS - BWI) $40+
• Flight Fort Lauderdale - Baltimore (FLL - BWI) $40+
• Flight Chicago - Baltimore (ORD - BWI) $70+
• Flight Houston - Baltimore (IAH - BWI) $73+
• Flight Dallas - Baltimore (DFW - BWI) $86+
• Flight Los Angeles - Baltimore (LAX - BWI) $101+
• Flight Boston - Washington, D.C. (BOS - DCA) $133+
• Flight Boston - Washington, D.C. (BOS - IAD) $139+
• Flight Denver - Baltimore (DEN - BWI) $143+
• Flight Dallas - Washington, D.C. (DFW - DCA) $154+
• Flight Seattle - Baltimore (SEA - BWI) $157+
• Flight Minneapolis - Washington, D.C. (MSP - DCA) $158+
• Flight New York - Washington, D.C. (LGA - DCA) $183+
• Flight Chicago - Washington, D.C. (ORD - DCA) $184+
• Flight San Francisco - Baltimore (SFO - BWI) $188+
• Flight Los Angeles - Washington, D.C. (LAX - IAD) $197+
• Flight Atlanta - Washington, D.C. (ATL - DCA) $202+
• Flight Los Angeles - Washington, D.C. (LAX - DCA) $212+
• Flight Dallas - Washington, D.C. (DFW - IAD) $219+
• Flight San Francisco - Washington, D.C. (SFO - DCA) $222+
• Flight Seattle - Washington, D.C. (SEA - DCA) $244+
• Flight Seattle - Washington, D.C. (SEA - IAD) $270+
• Flight San Francisco - Washington, D.C. (SFO - IAD) $290+

Atlanta Flights

• Flight Fort Lauderdale - Atlanta (FLL - ATL) $31+
• Flight Miami - Atlanta (MIA - ATL) $31+
• Flight Baltimore - Atlanta (BWI - ATL) $37+
• Flight Houston - Atlanta (HOU - ATL) $38+
• Flight Houston - Atlanta (IAH - ATL) $38+
• Flight Tampa - Atlanta (TPA - ATL) $38+
• Flight Philadelphia - Atlanta (PHL - ATL) $39+

United States Flights

• Flight New York - Chicago (LGA - ORD) $38+
• Flight Newark - Miami (EWR - MIA) $40+
• Flight Newark - Orlando (EWR - MCO) $48+
• Flight New York - Fort Lauderdale (LGA - FLL) $51+
• Flight New York - Miami (LGA - MIA) $51+
• Flight New York - Orlando (LGA - MCO) $65+

Hawaii Flights

• Flight Los Angeles - Hawaii (LAX - USHI) $215+
• Flight San Diego - Hawaii (SAN - USHI) $253+
• Flight San Francisco - Hawaii (SFO - USHI) $257+
• Flight Ontario - Hawaii (ONT - USHI) $258+
• Flight San Jose - Hawaii (SJC - USHI) $267+
• Flight Seattle - Hawaii (SEA - USHI) $297+
• Flight Portland - Hawaii (PDX - USHI) $380+

Tampa Flights

• Flight Atlanta - Tampa (ATL - TPA) $38+
• Flight Raleigh - Tampa (RDU - TPA) $43+
• Flight Baltimore - Tampa (BWI - TPA) $44+
• Flight Atlantic City - Tampa (ACY - TPA) $49+
• Flight Philadelphia - Tampa (PHL - TPA) $56+
• Flight Cincinnati - Tampa (CVG - TPA) $58+
• Flight Newark - Tampa (EWR - TPA) $64+

Houston Flights

• Flight Atlanta - Houston (ATL - IAH) $39+
• Flight Philadelphia - Houston (PHL - IAH) $46+
• Flight Miami - Houston (MIA - IAH) $49+
• Flight Dallas - Houston (DFW - IAH) $50+
• Flight Fort Lauderdale - Houston (FLL - IAH) $50+
• Flight New York - Houston (LGA - IAH) $57+
• Flight Detroit - Houston (DTW - IAH) $61+

Las Vegas Flights

• Flight Los Angeles - Las Vegas (LAX - LAS) $24+
• Flight Oakland - Las Vegas (OAK - LAS) $36+
• Flight Burbank - Las Vegas (BUR - LAS) $39+
• Flight Santa Ana - Las Vegas (SNA - LAS) $41+
• Flight Dallas - Las Vegas (DFW - LAS) $50+
• Flight San Francisco - Las Vegas (SFO - LAS) $51+
• Flight Seattle - Las Vegas (SEA - LAS) $52+
• Flight Houston - Las Vegas (HOU - LAS) $69+
• Flight Houston - Las Vegas (IAH - LAS) $69+
• Flight Denver - Las Vegas (DEN - LAS) $71+
• Flight Baltimore - Las Vegas (BWI - LAS) $87+
• Flight Chicago - Las Vegas (ORD - LAS) $88+
• Flight Fort Lauderdale - Las Vegas (FLL - LAS) $88+
• Flight Charlotte - Las Vegas (CLT - LAS) $96+

Miami Flights

• Flight Chicago - Miami (ORD - MIA) $33+
• Flight Atlanta - Miami (ATL - MIA) $38+
• Flight Baltimore - Miami (BWI - MIA) $38+
• Flight Philadelphia - Miami (PHL - MIA) $39+
• Flight Charlotte - Miami (CLT - MIA) $48+
• Flight Dallas - Miami (DFW - MIA) $50+
• Flight Houston - Miami (HOU - MIA) $50+
• Flight Houston - Miami (IAH - MIA) $50+
• Flight Raleigh - Miami (RDU - MIA) $51+
• Flight New York - Miami (LGA - MIA) $52+
• Flight Boston - Miami (BOS - MIA) $84+
• Flight Detroit - Miami (DTW - MIA) $89+
• Flight Minneapolis - Miami (MSP - MIA) $105+
• Flight New York - Miami (JFK - MIA) $117+
• Flight Cleveland - Miami (CLE - MIA) $128+
• Flight Denver - Miami (DEN - MIA) $129+
• Flight Los Angeles - Miami (LAX - MIA) $135+
• Flight Washington, D.C. - Miami (DCA - MIA) $149+
• Flight Austin - Miami (AUS - MIA) $179+
• Flight Ontario - Miami (ONT - MIA) $180+
• Flight Seattle - Miami (SEA - MIA) $197+

San Francisco Flights

• Flight Ontario - San Francisco (ONT - SFO) $38+
• Flight Los Angeles - San Francisco (LAX - SFO) $40+
• Flight Santa Ana - San Francisco (SNA - SFO) $91+
• Flight Denver - San Francisco (DEN - SFO) $123+
• Flight Dallas - San Francisco (DFW - SFO) $130+
• Flight Seattle - San Francisco (SEA - SFO) $144+
• Flight Minneapolis - San Francisco (MSP - SFO) $155+
• Flight Chicago - San Francisco (ORD - SFO) $175+
• Flight Philadelphia - San Francisco (PHL - SFO) $181+
• Flight Atlanta - San Francisco (ATL - SFO) $184+
• Flight Houston - San Francisco (IAH - SFO) $184+
• Flight Cleveland - San Francisco (CLE - SFO) $191+
• Flight Boston - San Francisco (BOS - SFO) $197+
• Flight Detroit - San Francisco (DTW - SFO) $206+

Seattle Flights

• Flight Los Angeles - Seattle (LAX - SEA) $61+
• Flight Ontario - Seattle (ONT - SEA) $66+
• Flight Phoenix - Seattle (PHX - SEA) $71+
• Flight San Diego - Seattle (SAN - SEA) $82+
• Flight Denver - Seattle (DEN - SEA) $86+
• Flight San Jose - Seattle (SJC - SEA) $95+
• Flight Santa Ana - Seattle (SNA - SEA) $107+

Paris Flights

• Flight Washington, D.C. - Paris (IAD - CDG) $295+
• Flight Boston - Paris (BOS - CDG) $296+
• Flight New Windsor - Paris (SWF - CDG) $302+
• Flight Baltimore - Paris (BWI - CDG) $303+
• Flight Newark - Paris (EWR - ORY) $351+
• Flight New York - Paris (JFK - ORY) $352+
• Flight New York - Paris (JFK - CDG) $365+

Europe Flights

• Flight New York - Lisbon (JFK - LIS) $334+
• Flight New York - Paris (JFK - ORY) $354+
• Flight Newark - Barcelona (EWR - BCN) $357+
• Flight New York - Paris (JFK - CDG) $359+

Florida Flights

• Flight Newark - Florida (EWR - USFL) $39+
• Flight Baltimore - Florida (BWI - USFL) $40+
• Flight Chicago - Florida (ORD - USFL) $40+
• Flight Philadelphia - Florida (PHL - USFL) $43+
• Flight Boston - Florida (BOS - USFL) $52+
• Flight New York - Florida (LGA - USFL) $52+
• Flight Dallas - Florida (DFW - USFL) $60+

Dallas Flights

• Flight Houston - Dallas (HOU - DFW) $47+
• Flight Fort Lauderdale - Dallas (FLL - DFW) $52+
• Flight Phoenix - Dallas (PHX - DFW) $54+
• Flight Miami - Dallas (MIA - DFW) $55+
• Flight Atlanta - Dallas (ATL - DFW) $58+
• Flight Orlando - Dallas (MCO - DFW) $59+
• Flight Minneapolis - Dallas (MSP - DFW) $63+

San Diego Flights

• Flight San Jose - San Diego (SJC - SAN) $40+
• Flight Phoenix - San Diego (PHX - SAN) $46+
• Flight Sacramento - San Diego (SMF - SAN) $48+
• Flight Oakland - San Diego (OAK - SAN) $50+
• Flight Dallas - San Diego (DFW - SAN) $63+
• Flight San Francisco - San Diego (SFO - SAN) $63+
• Flight Houston - San Diego (HOU - SAN) $65+

Frequently asked questions

What do i need to know before booking a flight.

There are various factors to consider when booking a flight including cost, fare classes, baggage policies, the complications of flying long haul, and complying with airport regulations. To make your booking journey smoother KAYAK has developed a comprehensive flight guide including insights on finding affordable flights, packing efficiently, and utilizing the best travel tools.

What is the cheapest day of the week to book a flight?

The best day to book your flight depends on a number of factors, but there are general trends that you can follow to increase your chances of cheaper plane tickets. Based on an analysis of KAYAK data for all flights departing from inside United States over the last 12 months, the cheapest day to fly for domestic flights is Wednesday. For international flights, Tuesday had the cheapest tickets on average.

Which month of the year are flight prices lowest?

It’s well established that flights in the low season are generally cheaper than ticket prices during the high season. That means that knowing which month to find the lowest priced plane tickets will depend heavily on seasonality and your destination. While avoiding peak travel times can help you keep costs down, our data shows that the month with the lowest priced plane tickets for domestic flights based on all searches made on KAYAK in the last 12 months was January, while the most expensive was May. If you’re booking an international flight, then January is the cheapest month to fly and June the most expensive.

When is the best time to buy plane tickets - Last minute or in advance?

Last minute flight deals are definitely up for grabs but when exactly to purchase your plane tickets will depend on where you’re traveling to and from. Based on all data for flight searches made on KAYAK over the last 12 months, prices for domestic flights remained below the average price up to 1 weeks before departure. For international flights, deals could still be had up to 1 weeks prior to the departure date, with prices remaining below average. If you’re flexible, KAYAK brings you both advance and last minute one-way and round-trip flight deals.

Can flying international flights with a layover save money on airfare?

For many long-haul international flights, flying non-stop is not possible and you will have to fly with a layover. Some routes will offer both and you could consider flying with a layover for a number of reasons. Firstly, breaking up what would otherwise be a long-haul flight, taking a rest and then completing the journey might make the flight more manageable. Secondly, prices can also be lower than non-stop flights, so while it might take longer for you to reach your destination, you could save money. We’ve looked at prices over the last 12 months for the 100 most popular international destinations for KAYAK users and on average, prices for non-stop flights were cheaper than flights with a layover.

How does KAYAK find such low flight prices?

KAYAK processes over 2 billion flight queries annually and displays results from hundreds of airlines and third party sites, allowing it to find a variety of flight prices and options. It also displays results from 2M+ properties along with rental cars, vacation packages, activities and millions of verified reviews so users can see as many available travel options as possible.

How do I find the best flight deals on KAYAK?

A simple flight search at https://www.kayak.com/flights scans for prices on hundreds of travel sites in seconds. We gather flight deals from across the web and put them in one place. Then on the search results page you can use various filters to compare options for the same flight and easily choose the best flight deal from all of the deals coming straight from the travel sites to your screen, with no extra fee from KAYAK.

How can Hacker Fares save me money?

Hacker Fares allow you to combine one-way tickets on different airlines when it can save you money over a traditional round-trip ticket.

Does KAYAK query more flight providers than competitors?

Yes, KAYAK has access to more data and information than online travel agencies and consistently outperforms the competition in accuracy, globally.

How does KAYAK's flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy?

KAYAK's flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a given destination and date is likely to change within 7 days, so travelers know whether to wait or book now.

What is KAYAK's "flexible dates" feature and why should I care?

Sometimes travel dates aren't set in stone. If your preferred travel dates have some wiggle room, flexible dates will show you flights up to 3 days before/after your preferred dates. That way, you can see if leaving a day or two earlier will find you a better deal. You can also select the flexible "weekend" or "month" search options to widen your search range and find the cheapest price that works for you.

Search cheap flights with KAYAK. Search for the cheapest airline tickets for all the top airlines around the world, airports around the world and the top international flight routes . KAYAK searches hundreds of travel sites to help you find cheap airfare and book a flight that suits you best. Since KAYAK searches many plane tickets sites at once, you can find cheap tickets from cheap airlines and for trains and buses quickly.

KAYAK also helps you find the right hotels for your needs.

Round the World Tickets: The Ultimate Guide (Updated 2024)

Y ou've probably heard about round the world tickets, a one-stop shop approach to cross-continental flying. But let's be real: it's never been easier to book flight tickets yourself, and round the world tickets are pricey. So why do people book round the world tickets, and are they  actually worth the cost?

The quick answer is, it depends . If you're pressed for time, have a seriously fixed itinerary with many international stops to make, it can be cost-wise. However, if you have a whimsical, budget-conscious trip in mind, or are focusing on just one part of the world, there are cheaper options out there that you should know about  (like finding fares yourself on Skyscanner on Kiwi.com ).

So, here's everything you need to know about round the world tickets, followed by our DIY approach that could save you even more money!

• 1 How do Round The World tickets work?
• 2 How to book a round the world ticket
• 3 What are the restrictions and/or setbacks?
• 4 The alternative: book separate flights yourself
• 5 How to book your own round the world trip
• 6 So, what's the cheapest option?
• 7 A Thrifty Case Study: A Round the World Trip from New York City
• 8 What are the alternatives?
• 9 So, is a round the world ticket worth it?

How do Round The World tickets work?

Round the world (RTW) tickets are flight packages that let you visit a number of destinations around the world for one price. These tickets are offered by airline alliances like SkyTeam, Oneworld, and Star Alliance. All the flights in your itinerary must be served by airlines within the chosen alliance.

RTW tickets require you to select your destinations and departure dates in advance. This means you prepay for the pass and book all of your flights before your trip. Note: you don't have to actually fly “around the world” with these tickets , they're also sold as multi-city flights, continent-based travel, or by miles.

The perk of RTW tickets is the ability to book all flights at once at a discounted price, plus ensures a mass accumulation of frequent flyer miles since you'll only be flying partner airlines. You can even purchase part or all of your RTW ticket with relevant miles, where permitted.

How to book a round the world ticket

Round the world tickets can be purchased directly with airline alliances or via  travel agents .

Airline Alliances

• OneWorld Alliance
• Star Alliance

Each alliance offers an online trip planner that allows you to put in every stop of your itinerary and get a price quote. It also makes it easy to work around the restrictions of round the world tickets, warning you when your planned route doesn't meet the requirements. All alliances offer online booking, or you can call one of the participating alliance airlines directly.

Travel Agents

• AirTreks (U.S. – our top choice & has 32+ years experience in RTW planning)
• Liberty Travel (U.S.)
• Flight Centre ( Australia , U.K. , Canada )
• RoundAbout Travel (Australia)
• Student Flights (Australia)
• A travel agent local to you

Travel agents have exclusive access to flight deals, plus receive discounts accessible only via their IATA code. They also save a great deal of time and money whilst adhering to your budget and needs. Find an agency that specializes in round the world tickets, so they're aware of the restrictions and can secure the best price.

What are the restrictions and/or setbacks?

RTW tickets often more expensive than a DIY approach (covered later), especially given they exclude budget airlines. Furthermore, there are restrictions to follow, so ensure you've read the fine print. Such restrictions typically include:

• A minimum number of flights to book (typically three), as well as a maximum
• Flights usually must be within the same airline alliance. This can sometimes result in obscure stopovers to stay with partner alliances.
• Restrictions on the direction of travel (e.g. East to West only) and/or requiring you to cross both the Atlantic and Pacific oceans at least once
• All flights must end in the city you started from and connect from city-to-city (i.e. you can't fly into London, then take a train to fly out of Paris)
• A minimum number of stopovers
• Additional surcharges for itinerary changes and/or flying to certain destinations
• Missing a flight in your itinerary could result in the remaining flights being cancelled, even if days or weeks away

Whew! Though there are many restrictions, most will come up when making your booking . Simply use the round the world ticket planners provided by each alliance, put in your desired destinations, and the options and costs will be presented automatically.

The alternative: book separate flights yourself

The value of a round the world ticket depends on the route you're taking and the flexibility needed. More often than not, you'll find it's cheaper, easier, and more flexible to book your own round the world trip online across several bookings using multi-destination flight search engines like Kiwi.com  and Skyscanner . You also can mix and match airlines, and aren't confined by the restrictions that accompany an actual RTW ticket.

Credit card points programs also allow multi-city flight bookings, effectively allowing you to book your own round the world trip via points or a combination of cash and points. You can readily rack up a significant amount of miles just by hitting the minimum spend within a set time. The Chase Sapphire Preferred is our top pick as a beginner card. On hitting its minimum spend, you can earn up to 60,000 points worth $750 – more than enough for an international flight .

Flight deal subscriptions like Scotts Cheap Flights compile discounted airfare to your inbox, based on the desired departure airports. Whilst this doesn't include RTW flights, this could help you cover some of the legs of your trip, as it has majorly discounted international flights departing the U.S. For those outside America, similar services exist in the U.K. ( Jack's Flight Club ) and Canada ( Next Departure ).

The only major drawbacks with booking a RTW ticket yourself is the time and patience needed to make the booking. Additionally, you may end up with frequent flyer miles spread across a variety of programs, without enough miles in any program to use them. Most likely though, you'll come out ahead financially doing it yourself.

How to book your own round the world trip

Kiwi.com  and Skyscanner are the two flight search engines we recommend for booking your own tickets for a round the world trip. They include budget airlines and let you search multi-destination flights, letting you see prices for your entire itinerary at once.

The key difference between the two is that Skyscanner prefers results from partner airlines , while Kiwi.com will always  mix and match airlines (including budget airlines) for the cheapest price . Either booking site can be beneficial depending on your trip, so to get the best price, be sure to compare results and follow these tips:

• Experiment with  the order of your destinations for the best price. Just because a flight is shorter doesn't mean it will be cheaper.
• Experiment with the  dates of each flight . This can be time consuming, but if you're dedicated, you can shave hundreds of dollars off your total cost by simply finding the cheapest dates for each flight.
• Multi-city and  return flights are often better value than booking many one-way flights when they can all be fulfilled by the same airline/alliance. For example, Virgin Atlantic has routes from New York to London, London to Shanghai, and Shanghai to New York, so making one multi-city booking with this single airline will be cheaper than several individual bookings with different airlines.
• Skyscanner prefers partner airlines that can fulfil the entire itinerary you submit, which doesn't always get you the best price on complex itineraries. So if you have a lot of destinations, split your searches into 3-4 destinations at a time . For example, instead of submitting New York > London  > Paris > Beijing > New York as a single search, try searching New York > London > Paris as one search, and Paris > Prague > Beijing > New York as a second search. You don't have to worry about this on Kiwi.com , which always mixes and matches airlines to get the best results.

So, what's the cheapest option?

In our tests, the DIY approach is always cheaper, but it depends on the kind of trip you're taking. Round the world tickets can cost anywhere from $1,500 USD to $20,000 USD . The price varies greatly, and depends on your departure point, number of flights, distance flown, continents flown to, and flight class.

On the other hand, regular flight ticket prices are all over the map, dependent mostly on supply and demand. Sometimes a flight across continents can be even cheaper than a flight within your own country. Since regular flight tickets include budget airlines , sale and error fares , and you can still take advantage of discounts with partner airlines,  booking your own flight tickets has always been cheaper for us .

The only way to know for sure is to compare. Use the links provided in this guide and see what gives you the best result!

A Thrifty Case Study: A Round the World Trip from New York City

As an example, let's find the best price for the following round the world trip:  New York City > London > Paris > Prague > Beijing > Hong Kong > New York City . We want to go in  April and May , and we are booking now in  January . We'll start on Tuesday, April 10, and schedule each consecutive flight for the following Tuesday.

Option 1: A round the world travel agent

Booking with AirTreks also gives you a team with over 32 years of experience in RTW planning, all your tickets in one spot (instead of many confusing separate bookings), 24/7 support, and better routes (less layover time, more baggage, etc.) If you do find a cheaper fare yourself, let them know – AirTreks tells us they're confident they could beat it!

Option 2: A round the world ticket booked directly with airline alliances

Putting in the same itinerary into each of the airline alliances' round the world trip planner gives us the following totals:

• OneWorld: $3,738.86 USD
• SkyTeam: $3,904.28 USD
• Star Alliance: $4,543.84 USD

Not exactly thrifty, and up to 3x the advertised price of the travel agent! True round the world tickets require strategic planning, so using a travel agent's expertise can save you time and money. But let's take a look at booking regular airline tickets yourself…

Option 3: Book your own tickets using Kiwi.com and Skyscanner

Using the Kiwi.com multicity search feature, we enter our full itinerary, and within minutes, we have a variety of options from $1,390 – $1,434 USD .

As we mentioned, Skyscanner usually just shows results from  partner airlines that can fulfill a ticket for the entire route. This route is pretty complex, and it's unlikely one airline alliance could fulfill it all, so let's  break it up .

After half an hour of trying different combinations of multi-city and one-way searches, the cheapest combination I could find for these dates was

• New York City > London > Paris > Prague: $390 USD
• Prague > Beijing: $283 USD
• Beijing > Hong Kong: $119 USD
• Hong Kong > New York City: $493 USD
• TOTAL TRIP COST: $1,285 USD

This is the cheapest option, beating Kiwi.com by only $105. What's going on here? In short, trial and error. The first batch of airlines aren't partners, but Skyscanner sometimes lets you mix and match airlines by using Kiwi.com for booking. And although there are partner airlines to fulfill the rest of the route, Hong Kong Airlines is an independent budget airline with competitive pricing, so it ended up being cheaper to book the flights separately in order to include their fares.

You can take this even further by testing different dates in your itinerary, as well as the order of your flights. As you can see, the process can be time consuming, but a little time rewards you with hundreds or thousands of dollars saved!

What are the alternatives?

Regional flight passes.

While not a round the world ticket in itself, this type of flight pass might be more sensible for your trip, depending whether you'll be flying a lot in one region versus globally. For instance, if you are planning to take more flights around South America than across continents, then you may be better off investing in one of their regional passes (check our guide here ).

Some examples of regional flight passes include:

• OneWorld single-continent passes: available for Africa, Asia, Japan, Australia & New Zealand, Malaysia, South America, Europe, North America, Middle East, South Asian Sub-Continent
• OneWorld multi-continent passes: rather than flying all the way around the world, these passes let you fly in a circle around one smaller area of the world
• SkyTeam regional passes : available for Asia & Southwest Pacific, Africa, Asia, Europe, Greater China, Russia, and USA & Canada
• Independent airline passes in South America : these work within specific South American countries (check our comprehensive list and guide here )
• Qantas Explorer pass : a flight pass for exploring Australia and New Zealand

Building your own stopover

A stopover – that is, an extended layover where you can actually leave the airport for 1 or more days or weeks – can be added for cheap or free to any trip, all by yourself. Our how-to guide here explains exactly how to do this.

Essentially, you find a flight fare that includes a layover, but instead of rushing to your connecting flight, you spend days or weeks in the layover destination, visiting 2 destinations for the price of 1. Whether you go round the world or not, it's a great way to squeeze more travel value out of your flight costs.

So, is a round the world ticket worth it?

In short, for most travellers, the answer is probably no. There are a certain set of criteria where it could be more cost-effective, and some travellers may prefer the ease of having all of their tickets booked in one pass anyway. However, the fixed timing, many restrictions, and high price are likely to be unappealing to those who are seeking a thriftier approach, especially when it's so easy to book yourself for less with Kiwi.com and Skyscanner .

The Thrifty Gist

• Round the world tickets are usually pricier than self-booking, but offer peace of mind and a pre-set itinerary
• A dedicated RTW agent such as AirTreks can save you a lot of time, with the added benefit of 24/7 support, having all of your flights in one place, established airlines with shorter routes, and over 32 years of experience in RTW planning. AirTreks tells us they're confident they could beat the other prices in this post, so if you find a cheaper fare yourself, let them know!
• Round the world tickets can be booked with airline alliances or travel agents, while self-booking regular flight tickets can be booked using the multi-destination features of Skyscanner and Kiwi.com
• Self-booking is usually the cheapest approach to a round the world trip, but can also be more tedious
• Reasons to self-book include the abundance of available error/sale fares , budget airlines, the ease with which self-booking can be done, and that stopovers can easily be added to any trip

Our website contains some affiliate links in relevant areas. This means we get a small commission, at no extra cost to you, for recommending a product we personally use, trust, and own.

trying to fin d the cheapest country to start a Oneworld 4 continent ticket July 2022, it used to be South Africa or Jordan, any update links?

Please send complete information for my round the world travel for 2 – up to a year.

Skyteam RTW tickets are not available currently, and haven’t been since the start of COVID. The Star Alliance RTW business ticket I just booked was half the price of using the DIY method.

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Plan Your Trip

Plan your rtw trip.

Finding the right round the world trip planner can be difficult. This is first and foremost because many such tools on the internet are only for planning (and, in some cases, booking) RTW flights. The truly difficult part of planning a trip around the world is deciding where to go, how long to stay and how to arrange your trip, so the content deficit (let alone how rare it is to find a quality world trip planner) is frustrating for many travelers.

The good news? Whether you want to travel all around the world, or simply want to visit multiple continents during a single trip, this guide covers all the bases you’ll need to hit as you plan your trip.

Of course, I’ll also touch on the particulars of buying a RTW ticket, including a somewhat contentious recommendation on my part. I’m about to share a great deal of information with you, but I promise: Planning a RTW trip is much, much easier than it looks.

Booking Round the World Flights

Many a round the world trip planner (which to say, any airline alliance website create for the purpose of selling flights) will tell you that booking a single RTW ticket is essential for a round the world trip. However, I don’t agree with this. In addition to the fact that having a single travel the world for a year itinerary (even a flexible one) can lock you in on a trip that will be anything but predictable, it’s often more cost effective to book individual segments, particularly if you have some miles or points to play with.

Let’s say, for example, that you live in the United States and want to fly around the world westward. After taking advantage of a rock-bottom one-way flight from the US to Japan or China , you can take advantage of low-cost flights as you explore Southeast Asia and Australia , then gradually make your way to Europe (and from there, Africa ), flying to South America before returning home, often for only a few hundred dollars per segment. A round-the-world ticket, on the other hand, which often only includes long-distance flights, can easily cost between $2,000-3,000. And that’s without the fees you’ll certainly have to pay to change it as your plans evolve.

How Long Does a Round the World Trip Take?

Whether or not you work with an around the world trip planner, you should keep in mind that as you plan a round the world trip, the issue of timing can be surprisingly far in the back of your mind, particularly if you’ll be traveling to regions of the world you’ve never visited. While two weeks traveling through Japan or Western Europe can allow you to cover a lot of ground, it’s woefully insufficient in places like India , Africa or even much of South America. In general, it’s safe to assume you’re probably underestimating how long you’ll need to devote to your trip.

Broadly speaking, I’d say the best round the world holidays last a minimum of six months, though I have personally taken epic trips in a shorter amount of time than that. On the other hand, I’d caution against traveling for longer than a year at a time, as being away from your “real life” for such a period can have other impacts on your well-being, ones you might not be able to anticipate right now.

How Much Does a Round the World Trip Cost?

Another deficiency of many a round the world trip planner (which is once again to say a flight booking tool) is that it provides only a piece of the cost puzzle—your round the world trip isn’t only going to cost a few thousand dollars. Generally speaking, the average cost of traveling anywhere in the world is between 50-150 USD per person, per day, which means that a conservative estimate for the cost of the ultimate around the world itinerary for a six-month trip (without your “big” flights) is between $9,000-27,000. Not cheap!

Of course, there are ways to decrease the cost of a travel around the world itinerary, whether you manage to find the cheapest round the world ticket, take advantage of opportunities for free or discounted stays (whether you couch surf or do some sort of volunteer program) or simply keep your dining out and shopping to a minimum. In general, however, I’d recommend over-estimating your budget than under-estimating it, if only so you don’t end up as a “begpacker.”

When to Take a Round the World Trip

When you travel around the world will depend upon where you want to go. While most of the sample round the world routes I’ll recommend in the next section are fairly evergreen, some destinations are better during certain months than others, and planning according to this can influence the rest of your travel trajectory.

For example, let’s assume you want to see the cherry blossoms in Japan , probably the world’s most famous seasonal spectacle. Whether you choose from my round the world trip ideas below or commission a custom 6 month travel itinerary, you’ll want to arrange the rest of your RTW trip to optimize the weather in all your destinations. You might head to Nepal after Japan, for instance, to trek when the country’s famous rhododendrons are blooming, or visit Australia and New Zealand before Japan to catch the tail end of warm weather Down Under.

Round the World Trip Ideas

The best of six continents.

Most round the world trip planners will want to see the “whole world” on their trips—all six inhabited continents, and potentially even Antarctica. Regardless of where your RTW travel originates, the general path you will follow is North America-Asia (Australia/New Zealand)-(Middle East/India) Europe (Africa)-South America-North America, or maybe in reverse depending upon where you start and what time of year you’re traveling.

In terms of a general flight path, this might look something like the following: Los Angeles-Vancouver- Tokyo – Bangkok – Sydney – Dubai – Paris -Cairo-Cape Town-London-Buenos Aires- Bogota -Houston. Needless to say there are countless variations, from a 6 month round the world trip to ones much longer!

Wonders of the World

Rather than taking a comprehensive approach (which can lead to a year or even longer on the road—again, not an option for the majority of travelers), you can start your world travel planner based on a finite list of world wonders, be it classic ones you find on an Asia trip planner like the Great Wall or ones you designate yourself, such as Barcelona ‘s Sagrada Familia church or Ethiopia’s “Door to Hell.”

Assuming you take a more classic route for your around the world itinerary, you might go about planning a round the world trip between wonders as follows. From Chicago to Beijing (for the Great Wall), then to Delhi (for the Taj Mahal), to Cairo (for the Pyramids ), to Athens (for the Acropolis), to London (for Stonehenge), to Rio de Janeiro (for Christ the Redeemer) to New York (for the Statue of Liberty). Again, this is highly customizable!

The Backpacker’s Trail

I’ve taken great pains within this round the world trip planner to be honest and sober about the cost of traveling around the world, but this is still a sort of trip that people on the backpacking spectrum can take. Specifically if you decide to string together affordable destinations like Southeast Asia, India, Eastern Europe, Andean South America and Central America.

For instance, if you’re seeking a cheap around the world itinerary, you might fly from Denver to Kuala Lumpur (via China, as Chinese airlines are the cheapest), then fly to Mumbai or Delhi for a month or two there. From there, head to Ukraine or Poland to begin a month or so backpacking Eastern Europe (I particularly like the Balkans ), before taking a flight (probably a multi-leg one) to Lima (where Peru and Bolivia await) or Cancun, from which can you head south to affordable Honduras, El Salvador and Nicaragua.

Five-Star Frolic

On the other end up to the spectrum for a world trip itinerary, travelers without a set budget can enjoy a round the world business class (or even first class) romp that pulls out all the stops. Rather than focusing on a set range of destinations, you can plan your trip based on luxurious hotels and experiences, be it a Tanzania safari from the opulent Four Seasons Serengeti , sampling award-winning in-flight products and services from airlines like Qatar Airways and Singapore Airlines or dining in foodie capitals like Tokyo and Paris.

If you’re planning a luxury round the world trip, it makes sense to enlist the help of a professional (me or someone else), since the price of such assistance (usually between $100-200 per week of travel) is minimal compared to the overall cost of such a RTW trip.

Other FAQ About RTW Travel

How many stops do you get on a round the world ticket.

Whether you’re planning a 6 month round the world trip or plan to stay on the road for years, I am a proponent of piecemeal booking of air travel, rather than committing yourself to a RTW ticket. Therefore, I consider the number of “stops” permitted on such a ticket to be superfluous.

How do I plan a trip around the world?

Unless you are a very experienced global traveler, I recommend against trying to plan a trip on your trip. Rather, work with a professional (such as Yours Truly) to arrange a travel the world for a year itinerary. Or for longer than a year, or shorter—you get the idea.

Are round the world tickets worth it?

No! As I’ve expressed many times during this round the world itinerary, I am not a fan of RTW plane tickets. They rarely cost less; booking and changing them requires a pedantic phone call—or rather phone calls, since you’ll have to call in every time you want to make a modification.

Round the World Trip Planning

The best round the world trips are the ones where you get out on the road and go where the wind takes you, but that’s not realistic for most people. Whether because of finite funds or a “real life” you need to get back to, round the world trips require more planning than you’d probably like, even if you’re generally an adventurous and spontaneous traveler.

“So,” you might be asking, “can you plan my round the world trip for me?” The answer is yes, though there are a couple caveats. Because of the length and breadth of most RTW trips, many travelers want a more skeletal version of my typical “Travel Coaching” itinerary, which is typical extremely detailed and includes day-by-day recommendations. As a result, my pricing for planning RTW itineraries differs from what I’ve published on my Travel Coaching page , so I’d advise emailing me directly with any inquiries.

The Bottom Line

No matter how extensive a round the world trip planner you’ve been seeking, I’m confident that mine has met your needs. For most travelers, it’s simply a matter of learning your RTW flight booking options, assessing the cost of your RTW trip and deciding upon destinations and routing. However, others might want to hire a world trip planner (or a least a skeleton of it, which puts in place a broad trajectory) on their behalf.

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Which day of the week is the best day to buy cheap airline tickets?

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When is the best time to buy airline tickets?

Based on 2020 And 2021 global flight data for Economy tickets, prices usually start to increase 56 days before departure for domestic flights. When traveling internationally, prices usually start to increase 21 days before departure*. Keep in mind that this isn’t a hard-and-fast rule; keeping an eye on prices is a good idea when trying to find the best airfare deals. Compare fares across different airlines, and set up a price alert for your preferred route.

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Which is the cheapest month to fly?

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How do I book with Expedia?

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What should I look out for when booking flights?

Several factors go into any flight booking, and you’ll need to keep an eye out for them all to ensure that you get the travel time, luggage policy, airline, and class you want. Consider which airport is closest to your ultimate destination (travelers to Los Angeles may prefer flights to LAX over flights to PSP , and make sure that the flight will accommodate all the luggage you plan on bringing. Additionally, consider the different flight classes including economy flights for functionality and premium flights if you want to enjoy a more relaxing experience.

Where’s the cheapest place to travel?

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Where can I fly for cheap?

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Is it cheaper to buy flights last minute?

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Are fully refundable flights available?

Yes, several fully refundable flights are available and will be labeled as such right on your search results page in green text. You may also filter for fully refundable flights specifically to eliminate all flights from your results that don’t qualify. Just make sure to check the specific policy for each flight before booking.

Why should I book my flight with Expedia?

Booking with Expedia makes finding a flight easy, but that’s just the beginning of everything you can take advantage of. We also offer hotels, car rentals, and even activities that you can purchase with package deals available for travelers planning more than one aspect of their trip at a time. Plus, Expedia offers stunning cheap flight deals that can help you save with ease. As a One Key member, you will earn OneKeyCashTM for every eligible booking that you can use to save on future bookings. Plus, OneKeyCash can be earned on top of airline miles.

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The 22 most beautiful beaches in the world.

These stunning stretches of sand are bound to take your breath away.

The Most Beautiful Beaches in the World

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Appreciate nature's beauty at these picturesque shores.

Few vacation spots are as synonymous with relaxation as beaches. From tranquil options set near iconic sights to rugged spots that feel worlds away from reality, there are plenty of incredible choices across the globe for a seaside escape. To help you decide which picturesque coastlines to prioritize, U.S. News compiled this selection of the world's most awe-inspiring beaches. Whether you crave a leisurely afternoon of lounging atop powdery sand or an active day filled with hiking or water sports adventures, you'll instantly feel at ease while visiting these gorgeous beaches.

Whitehaven Beach: Whitsunday Island, Australia

Located off the coast of Queensland on the largest of the Whitsunday Islands, Whitehaven Beach mesmerizes visitors with its bright white silica sand and turquoise water. When they're not snapping photos of their surroundings, beachgoers can swim in the clear water or walk to noteworthy spots like Hill Inlet – a shallow inlet on the northern end of the beach – and Chance Bay, which is a quieter area south of the beach that overlooks Pentecost Island. Keep in mind, though, this 4-mile-long stretch of sand is only accessible by boat, helicopter or seaplane from Hamilton Island (the most popular inhabited island in the Whitsundays) and Airlie Beach on the mainland. Consider staying at Hamilton Island's five-star qualia resort for luxurious waterfront accommodations. The hotel staff can assist with booking excursions to Whitehaven Beach, as well as scuba diving tours of the world-renowned Great Barrier Reef .

Cannon Beach: Cannon Beach, Oregon

If your perfect beach vacation spot features postcard-worthy topography and lots of solitude, look no further than Cannon Beach. In this Pacific Northwest town about 80 miles northwest of Portland , you'll discover nearly 4 miles of shore with jaw-dropping rock formations jutting out of the Pacific Ocean. Head to the center of the beach between Ecola Creek and Tolovana Park to gaze at Haystack Rock, a 235-foot-tall sea stack known for its vibrant tide pools and puffin colony. You can even build a fire on the beach to relax beside while watching the sun set. When you need a break from the beach, walk to downtown Cannon Beach to browse its art galleries, boutiques and eateries. Or, retreat to one of the town's inns, lodges or resorts. Two traveler-approved options within steps of the beach include the Stephanie Inn and The Ocean Lodge.

[Read: The Best Oregon Beaches .]

Horseshoe Bay Beach: Bermuda

Visit Horseshoe Bay Beach to put a unique spin on your next beach getaway. Situated on Bermuda 's South Shore, this pink sand beach – made of a blend of crushed coral – is one of the island's most popular stretches of sand. Families come here to splash in its calm turquoise water and build blush-colored sandcastles. Meanwhile, active travelers love exploring its hidden coves, trekking its trails to Warwick Long Bay , and enjoying water sports like snorkeling and paddleboarding (loaner equipment is available for a fee). Horseshoe Bay Beach's proximity to Gibbs Hill Lighthouse also makes it a prime spot to unwind after you climb the 117-foot-tall structure. Don't forget to save time for a snow cone or rum swizzle (Bermuda's national drink) from the on-site Rum Bum Beach Bar before retiring for the evening at the nearby Hamilton Princess Hotel & Beach Club , one of the area's top beach resorts .

[See: The Most Beautiful Pink Sand Beaches Around the World .]

Mohegan Bluffs: New Shoreham, Rhode Island

What the beach at Mohegan Bluffs lacks in easy accessibility it more than makes up for in natural beauty. Located at the base of its 200-foot-tall namesake, this Block Island shore offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and – on clear days – New York's Long Island. Upon arrival, pause to admire your surroundings and read about the bluffs' ties to the Indigenous Manissean people. Then, take the 141 steps down to the sand to sunbathe or swim. When you do climb back to the top, you can walk to Southeast Light to get an up-close look at its 19th-century lighthouse, then hop on a bike to explore the island. The lighthouse and beach are both stops on the self-guided Block Island Bicycle Tour. Travelers can end the day with a stay at the Spring House Hotel or the 1661 Inn, two boutique properties with spectacular ocean vistas.

[Read: The Top East Coast Beaches .]

Siesta Beach: Siesta Key, Florida

Regularly lauded for having one of Florida's best beaches , Siesta Key – which is located less than 7 miles southwest of Sarasota – boasts three gorgeous shorelines, including Siesta Beach. Here, you'll find colorful lifeguard stands sitting on soft sand made almost entirely of quartz, which gives the sand its pure white appearance and keeps it cool to the touch even on the hottest Florida days. Plus, Siesta Beach offers volleyball courts, a playground, concession stands and beach wheelchairs, among other amenities, making it ideal for everyone from families to fitness buffs. When you're ready for a change of scenery, venture a few blocks north to Siesta Key Village to shop, grab a drink or bite to eat, or listen to live music. For lodging, reserve a vacation rental or a room at a boutique hotel like Tropical Beach Resorts .

[Read: The Top Beach Chairs .]

Reynisfjara: Iceland

Though you may not think of Iceland as a beach vacation destination, its abundance of volcanoes sets the stage for an otherworldly beach experience. The country is home to several black sand beaches made from volcanic ash, but the most striking is Reynisfjara in South Iceland . At this desolate beach, you'll discover jet-black sand, an enormous cave, giant offshore rock formations and a series of stacked basalt columns that will all take your breath away. Plus, the beach offers proximity to Vík, a seaside village known for its Icelandic Lava Show – the world's only opportunity to safely observe molten lava – and outdoor adventures like glacier hikes and ice cave treks. If you time your visit right, Reynisfjara and other black sand beaches can make a great spot to see the northern lights in Iceland . Accommodations by Reynisfjara are limited, so consider making a daytrip from popular hotels like The Retreat or the Silica Hotel, which both overlook Iceland's world-renowned Blue Lagoon and sit about 30 miles southwest of Reykjavik .

[See: The Most Exotic Black Sand Beaches in the World .]

Hidden Beach: Marietas Islands, Mexico

This beach on Mexico's Marietas Islands – off the country's western coast – is truly a hidden gem. Only accessible by boat from tourist hot spots like Puerto Vallarta and Punta Mita, Hidden Beach wows visitors with its soft sand, crystal-clear water and one-of-a-kind location. Upon arrival, beachgoers must swim or kayak through a long water tunnel to reach the secluded beach, which sits within an exposed cave reportedly used for bombing drills during World War I. The unique layout makes the beach incredibly photogenic, as well as a haven for all kinds of wildlife. Birders can look for blue-footed boobies from the sand, while snorkelers should keep their eyes peeled for dolphins, turtles and even humpback whales. Following your visit, travelers can unwind back on the mainland at a chic all-inclusive resort like Hotel Mousai or IBEROSTAR Selection Playa Mita .

[Read: The Best Beaches in Mexico .]

The Baths: Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands

Head to The Baths in the British Virgin Islands if you crave awe-inspiring vistas everywhere you turn. Located on Virgin Gorda, this stretch of sand is one of the world's most beautiful white sand beaches – and it's easy to see why. Granite boulders tower above the beach and shelter rock pools and caves that you can explore on foot. Follow the path of steps and rope handrails to get to Devil's Bay, a prime place for swimming, snorkeling and sunbathing. Or, spend the bulk of your time climbing The Baths' massive boulders and cooling off in one of the beach's grottoes. If you're not visiting The Baths on a Caribbean cruise – many of which offer shore excursions to Virgin Gorda when stopping in the British Virgin Islands – choose the luxe Rosewood Little Dix Bay as your on-island home away from home.

[Read: The Best Caribbean Beaches .]

Anakena: Easter Island

For a truly unique backdrop while sunbathing and swimming, visit Anakena on remote Easter Island. On the island's main beach, you'll find white coral sand, swaying palm trees, and eight broken and intact moai statues. The archaeological treasures sit atop two ahu (stone altars) set near the Pacific Ocean. Contemplate the statues' mysterious origins from up close – according to oral tradition, they mark the arrival of Polynesian settlers, the island's first inhabitants – then head down to the beach to relax on the beautiful sand and in the calm turquoise water. Once you've worked up an appetite, order a tuna empanada or a bowl of poe (a sweet pumpkin- and flour-based pudding) to enjoy picnic-style before exploring other parts of Rapa Nui National Park, which occupies roughly 40% of the island. Although Easter Island accommodations are limited, you'll have a few traveler-approved options to choose from, including Nayara Hangaroa and explora Rapa Nui.

[Read: The Top Beach Hats .]

Navagio Beach: Zakynthos, Greece

Nicknamed Shipwreck Beach because of the shipwrecked vessel that washed up onto its shore in the 1980s, Navagio Beach boasts a breathtaking setting on the northwestern coast of the Greek island of Zakynthos (also called Zante). What's left of the boat, which sits in the middle of the pebbly beach, is surrounded by vertical cliffs overlooking the turquoise Ionian Sea. Beach activities are limited to swimming and sunbathing. However, Navagio Beach's isolated location – which is only accessible by boat from Porto Vromi – means you'll likely see other noteworthy sights, such as the mesmerizing Blue Caves, on your way to and from the shore. Most Navagio Beach daytrips include hotel transfers from tourist areas like Planos (or Tsilivi) and Zante Town, so plan on staying in one of these locations. Traveler favorites include the Lesante Classic Luxury Hotel & Spa and TUI BLUE Caravel.

[Read: The Top Beaches in Greece .]

Papakōlea Beach: Big Island, Hawaii

Prepare to be wowed by the rare sands that cover this Big Island beauty. One of only four green sand beaches known to exist, Papakōlea Beach is a treat for the eyes. To reach the beach, which sits south of the Mauna Loa volcano on Mahana Bay, you'll have to hike nearly 3 miles down from its parking lot. Though the trek can be challenging, the unique setting is well worth the effort. You'll discover vivid green sand made from olivine deposited during volcanic eruptions, plus impressive gray cliffs and clear blue water. (Note, however, that there are no on-site amenities available at the beach.) After a few hours of lounging – swimming is discouraged due to the strong undertow – check out nearby attractions like the black sand Punalu'u Beach and Kula Kai Caverns. There are limited lodging options nearby, but the towns of Waimea, Kailua-Kona and Hilo are home to dozens of top-notch properties. If you're looking for luxury, base yourself in Waimea at a high-end hotel like the Fairmont Orchid, Hawaii .

[Read: The Top Hawaii Beaches .]

Tulum Ruins Beach: Tulum, Mexico

This beach situated beneath the ruins of Tulum's famed archaeological site provides jaw-dropping views of El Castillo (a cliffside Mayan castle) and the Caribbean Sea. Descend the steps by the castle to get to the stunning white sand beach of Playa Ruinas and swim in its aquamarine waters. To rub elbows with fewer tourists, arrive right when the attraction opens in the morning. Keep in mind that an entrance fee of 85 Mexican pesos (about $4) per person applies. Once you've gotten your fill of the beach and its famous ruins, head to El Gran Cenote to snorkel or peruse the shops, restaurants and bars scattered throughout downtown Tulum . Then, hang your hat at a luxurious waterfront property like Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa or Jashita Hotel . Both sit around 10 miles northeast of the beach.

South Dune Beach: House Harbour Island, Quebec

Canada may not seem like an obvious choice for a beach vacation , but South Dune (Dune du Sud) Beach will sway you to think otherwise. Located on House Harbour Island (also called Île du Havre aux Maisons), one of 12 islands that make up the Magdalen Islands in the Gulf of St. Lawrence, this beach stands out for its towering red cliffs. Not only do the cliffs provide a gorgeous contrast to the gulf's blue water and the shore's white sand, but they also help shelter beachgoers from the wind, making the beach ideal for a stroll. Plus, you'll have access to picnic tables, should you wish to bring some food to enjoy by the water. Be sure to arrive during low tide so you can explore the cliffs' caves, and don't forget to visit the nearby Cape Alright lighthouse. For lodging, consider Domaine du Vieux Couvent, a charming former convent with around a dozen cozy rooms.

Mayflower Beach: Dennis, Massachusetts

The New England haven of Cape Cod is home to dozens of beautiful beaches, but few impress visitors like Mayflower Beach. At this Mid-Cape beach in the small town of Dennis, beachgoers will find amenities like a picnic area and a boardwalk, as well as plenty of space for beach games. But what sets this shore apart from others is what's exposed at low tide. When the water level drops, tide pools are available for kids to play in. Additionally, tidal flats appear, enabling visitors to walk for miles in ankle-deep water. Those who need a break from the sun can catch a performance at The Cape Playhouse – also in Dennis – or tour the Edward Gorey House in Yarmouth Port. Two top properties located within 15 miles of the beach include The Mansion at Ocean Edge Resort & Golf Club and Wequassett Resort and Golf Club .

[Read: The Best Cape Cod Beaches .]

Railay Beach: Thailand

Travel to Thailand's Railay Beach area for incredible scenery and plenty of amenities. Overlooking the Andaman Sea from its perch on this peninsula in southern Thailand , this beach destination's four shores feature massive limestone cliffs, crystal-clear water and clean white sand. Head to Railay Beach's northern stretch of sand (known as Ton Sai Beach) to rock climb, or venture to Railay East for a quiet spot to catch a colorful sunrise. If your main objective is to get in the water, you can check out Phra Nang Beach, a southern shore with shallow, calm water ideal for swimming and snorkeling. For those who crave a little bit of everything, there's Railay West. This beach provides countless opportunities for sunbathing, swimming and rock climbing, plus it sits close to restaurants, shops, bars and accommodations. Stay at Railay West's Rayavadee for five-star digs by the sea.

Marinha Beach: Portugal

Your jaw will instantly drop the moment you arrive here. Situated within southern Portugal 's Algarve region, Marinha Beach (or Praia de Marinha) boasts a hard-to-reach location alongside limestone cliffs. Getting to the beach requires traversing staircases and steep slopes down to the shore. Though this means Marinha Beach isn't suitable for travelers with mobility limitations, its remote location helps prevent overcrowding, meaning you can snap plenty of unobstructed photos. Soak up some sun on the sand, then go snorkeling in the clear water (but remember to bring your own gear, since rentals are not available on-site). If you visit during low tide, you can also walk to additional beaches, sea caves and the famed M-shaped rock formation. After exploring the beach, travelers can sign up for a boat tour to see more sights from the water or unwind at the upscale Vila Alba Resort, which sits about a mile northeast.

Baker Beach: San Francisco

Within San Francisco 's protected Presidio area, Baker Beach offers easy access to some of the city's best views. From the mile-long shore, visitors will enjoy panoramic vistas of the Pacific Ocean, Lands End , the Marin Headlands and the Golden Gate Bridge . Head to the beach to sunbathe on the clean golden sand (keep in mind that the northern end is clothing-optional), or bring bait and tackle for a day of fishing. Baker Beach's position beneath towering serpentine cliffs also makes the shore a prime spot for hiking, so be sure to save time for a trek on the California Coastal Trail, one of several trails in the Presidio. Although most of the city's top hotels are located in the downtown area, a few noteworthy lodging options sit within 5 miles of Baker Beach, including the sophisticated Hotel Drisco Pacific Heights .

[Read: The Best Beaches in California .]

Grace Bay Beach: Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands

Grace Bay Beach , a 3-mile-long white sand beach in Turks and Caicos , is incredibly picturesque thanks to its lack of seaweed and rocks. Plus, its position by Grace Bay makes it a terrific option for water activities. Venture a mile offshore to look for parrot fish, reef sharks and more while snorkeling around the barrier reef. Or, stay close to shore to swim in the calm, shallow water. Travelers can enjoy additional water sports (think: paddleboarding, kayaking and sailing) in the surrounding Princess Alexandra National Park by renting equipment via local outfitter Big Blue Collective. Resorts at Grace Bay Beach are easy to find, so plan on staying at a property with direct beach access, such as Seven Stars Resort & Spa or Point Grace .

Anse Source d'Argent: La Digue, Seychelles

Featuring massive rocks, soft white sand, clear blue water and lush tropical vegetation, Anse Source d'Argent is a feast for the eyes. It sits on the island of La Digue in the Seychelles , off the eastern coast of Africa. In either direction, you'll notice gigantic granite boulders perfectly positioned between the water and swaying palm trees. Follow the lead of countless filmmakers and photographers by capturing the beauty of this beach on camera before stretching out on the sand or dipping your toes in the calm water. Aim to arrive during low tide when the water is below your knees and more sand is exposed. Reaching the beach requires passing through L'Union Estate, a former coconut and vanilla plantation that charges an entrance fee of 100 Seychellois rupee (about $7) per nonresident. Lodging is limited on La Digue, so consider taking the ferry from the larger island of Mahé, where the highly regarded Four Seasons Resort Seychelles is located.

South Beach: Miami Beach, Florida

This tropical district on Florida's Atlantic Coast is world-renowned for its glamourous clientele, vibrant nightlife and powdery white sand. Although it is technically part of the greater Miami Beach area, South Beach is set apart by its Art Deco architecture evident in everything from the beachfront lifeguard towers to the high-rise buildings along the famed Ocean Drive . Lummus Park – equipped with sand volleyball courts, children's playgrounds and restroom facilities – flanks the crystalline shores. Situated on the northernmost corner of the park, The Betsy South Beach hotel offers luxury accommodations just a few blocks from the Lincoln Road pedestrian mall , where travelers will find opportunities for top-notch shopping, dining and people-watching.

Carmel Beach: Carmel, California

This laid-back beach town nestled along California's Central Coast harbors a dog-friendly swath of sand lined with trails and perfect for a beach fire. Carmel Beach is also known for its strong swell patterns ideal for surfing – but not so much for swimming, as riptides are common. Visitors who venture inland are treated to a charming village lined with boutiques, eateries and European-style architecture, plus a vibrant artist colony showcasing an array of work from local painters, sculptors and artisans. The historic La Playa Carmel hotel is located within walking distance to both the beach and the downtown district.

[Read: The Top Beach Wagons .]

Clearwater Beach: Florida

Families flock to this beautiful coastline – located on a barrier island about 25 miles west of Tampa – for its plethora of aquatic activities, waterfront restaurants and spacious sunbathing spots on sugar-white sands. Must-see attractions like the Clearwater Marine Aquarium and dolphin watching cruises keep travelers of all ages entertained for days on end. No matter how you choose to spend your time in Clearwater Beach , make sure you end the day by watching a picture-perfect sunset at Pier 60 . Beach parking can be a pesky (and pricey) problem that a resort with direct beach access – such as the SandPearl Resort – can help guests avoid (although resort and parking fees apply).

You may also be interested in:

• The Best Beaches in the U.S.
• The Best Islands in the World
• The Best Beach Bags
• Cheap Tropical Vacations Around the World
• The Best International Travel Insurance Plans

Tags: Travel , Beach Vacations , Tropical Vacations , Vacation Ideas

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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10 Most Affordable Tropical Destinations to Visit Around the World, According to Travel Experts

Warm, sunny places that won’t drain your entire vacation budget.

Lindsay Cohn is a writer, editor, and avid traveler who has visited 45 countries across six continents — and counting. She contributes to Travel + Leisure, Hotels Above Par, InsideHook, Well+Good, The Zoe Report, and more.

Adrian Rudd/Travel + Leisure

Nothing says vacation quite like jetting off to a tropical destination with sunshine and beautiful beaches or rain forests and perhaps some dramatic mountains. Travelers can post up on the sand and enjoy midday naps under the shade of a palm tree, or take in the melodic soundtrack of jungle creatures. Of course, it's not all lazy days and nights, unless that's your preference.

Many torrid travel spots are ripe with adventure, from snorkeling excursions to ATV tours to zip lining. Culture and fresh, local cuisine also come with the territory. And while equatorial hot spots like St. Barts, the Maldives, and Bora Bora command a high price, it’s certainly not necessary to break the bank on a steamy escape. Prefer to save than splurge? You’re in good company. According to a recent Vacasa survey, 84 percent of travelers are shifting their plans to be more budget-conscious. 

Lush landscapes, reasonable rates, and frame-worthy photo ops lie ahead at these affordable tropical destinations, from Costa Rica to Vietnam.

Mérida, Mexico

Itzel Garrido/Travel + Leisure

Mérida , the capital of Mexico's Yucatan state, is one of the country's most underrated cultural hubs. “Surge tourism-related pricing hasn't arrived yet, as it’s often overlooked by travelers in favor of beachside resort meccas such as Cancun and Tulum ,” says Brandon Berkson, CEO of Hotels Above Par . Days unfold while ambling about the historic downtown, stocking up on affordable souvenirs at design-forward shops, and savoring regional dishes such as cochinita pibil at economical Yucatec restaurants. “If you’re looking for a boutique hotel in Merida that doesn't break the bank, Wayam Mundo Imperial is the move, with suites ringing in at under $175 a night.”

Ubud, Bali, Indonesia

Daniel Gorostieta/Travel + Leisure

Bali might require a long travel day and some pricier plane tickets, but the Island of the Gods offers travelers superb value. The budget-conscious crowd should consider the upland town of Ubud in particular, a bastion of traditional culture and lush scenery with more wallet-friendly rates than along the coast. You can spend the day palling around with cute primates at the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary for just $5. The surrounding landscape brims with rain forests and terraced rice paddies. Food from local warungs and accommodations are inexpensive as well. If you want to splurge, the top-rated Adiwana Unagi Suites is still around $150 a night.

Negril, Jamaica

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The westernmost town in Jamaica, Negril — a.k.a. the Capital of Casual — offers sandy beaches, turquoise water, friendly locals, and a laid-back vibe. This relaxing paradise also won’t put stress on your wallet. Seven Mile Beach is dotted with affordable and delicious local beach shacks. “There are several great boutique properties — notably Skylark Negril Beach Resort , a member of Design Hotels — with rates under $200,” says Chelsea Bicknese, a travel advisor at Fora . “Rick's Cafe does a bar special that’s five Red Stripes and five shots for $25. Split between friends, it’s only a few bucks each.”

Phú Quốc, Vietnam

Qui Thinh Tran/Getty Images

Admittedly, getting to Phú Quốc, a Vietnamese island off the coast of Cambodia, does require connecting flights and higher airfare costs than most places on this list, but don’t let that be a deterrent. Once you arrive at this slice of paradise, it’s an incredible value. Rooms at the top-rated Mövenpick Villas & Residences Phú Quốc start at just $75. The night markets in Dương Đông overflow with cheap and delicious eats. And, of course, catching rays on the white-sand beaches and hiking through Phú Quốc National Park are free.

Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica

Adrian Rudd/Travel + Leisure

While the beach resorts in Santa Teresa and Peninsula Papagayo may fetch high price tags, that’s certainly not the case across all of Costa Rica. Off-the-beaten-path Manuel Antonio — the area including and surrounding seven-square-mile Manuel Antonio National Park — is a bastion of biodiversity with rain forests, pristine white-sand beaches , coral reefs for snorkeling, and diverse wildlife, including three-toed sloths and white-faced capuchin monkeys. Its remote location keeps the prices down. Many of the hotels cost around $100 a night, and eco-tours are fairy reasonable as well.

Madeira, Portugal

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Madeira is an adventure lover's paradise with cinematic scenery and eco-tourism opportunities galore. Its lush forests, black-sand beaches, natural lava pools, and towering mountains with idyllic viewpoints like Lombo dos Palheiros are just a few of the scenic highlights. “In downtown Funchal, many star attractions, including Mercado dos Lavradores and Livraria Esperanca, are free,” says Berkson. Entry to the flower-studded Monte Palace Tropical Garden costs about $13.50. “Right across from the sea and within walking distance of everything, Next hotel is a wallet-friendly stay with rates around $150 a night.”

San Juan, Puerto Rico

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“For travelers looking for an easy and affordable beach vacation, Puerto Rico supplies some of the most reasonable direct flights from the United States — with tickets starting at $129,” says Laura Lindsay, travel trends expert at Skyscanner . Besides low-cost outdoor activities like stretching out on the sun-splashed shores and trekking through tropical rain forests a short drive away, head to the historic district of Old San Juan to experience local culture. It’s free to wander around and snap photos of the colorful buildings. Admission to Castillo San Felipe del Morro, the imposing 16th-century fortress and citadel, is just $10 for adults and free for kids under age 15.

Puebla, Mexico

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“Featuring a subtropical highland climate, the central Mexican city of Puebla remains one of Mexico’s best-kept secrets,” says Berkson. The city is teeming with affordable activities — from checking out the art galleries, colorful facades, and handicrafts along Callejón de Los Sapos and admiring the well-tailored architecture of the historic library Biblioteca Palafoxiana, Catedral de Puebla, and the ornate 17th-century Capilla del Rosario to stocking up on handmade pottery and feasting on delicious local dishes. “You can often book my favorite stay, Banyan Tree Puebla , for under $200 a night.”

Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic

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Droves of sunseekers flock to the all-inclusive resorts in Punta Cana . Far fewer realize the deals that await in Santo Domingo. Round-trip flights as low as $286 leave plenty of vacation budget for lodging, food, and entertainment — not that any of those things will set you back much in the commercial and cultural capital of the Dominican Republic. After lounging on the sandy beaches, take a tram tour of Jardin Botánico Nacional, eat your way through Mercado Modelo for cheap, and visit the famous Basilica Cathedral of Santa Maria la Menor. And be sure to do a day trip to Parque Nacional Los Tres Ojos.

LucBrousseau/Getty Images

In comparison to nearby St. Martin or even Anguilla , St. Kitts flies under the radar. However, it’s deserving of your vacation days and hard-earned dollars — both of which will go far on the 18-mile-long island that’s known for its Atlantic and Caribbean beaches, lush rain forests, and candy-colored buildings in the capital, Basseterre. In November, JetBlue launched nonstop flights from New York (JFK) to St. Kitts (SKB) with one-way tickets starting at $183. But it's not just getting there that’s easy on the wallet; you can snag a room at St. Kitts Marriott Resort & The Royal Beach Casino for just $218.

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7 Scenic, But Affordable Summer Vacation Spots For 2024

• Don't break the bank on summer vacations! Hunt for deals & find cheap international destinations for under $1,000 per week.
• From Greece to Indonesia, scenic & luxurious destinations like Zakynthos & Bali offer beauty without the high price tag.
• Explore affordable gems in 2024 like Istanbul & Hi An for picturesque views, rich cultures, and budget-friendly travel experiences.

Gone are the days when week-long summer vacations would cost a fortune. A big part of travel in 2024 is hunting for the best deals and offers and unearthing cheap last-minute international vacation destinations for summer that give you the best value for your money. In fact, there are several international vacations you can take that will cost less than $1,000 per week !

Whether you're looking for a dreamy island getaway in the US or a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Europe or Asia, you'll be surprised by the number of cheap places to travel to in 2024 that are equally scenic and luxurious. Still not sure what destination to pick? Here are some ideas for scenic, but affordable summer vacations in 2024!

7 Affordable Towns In Western Europe I Loved Staying In During The Summer

Zakynthos, greece, average cost to visit: $331 per week.

Yes! You can visit Greece without spending thousands of dollars! Zakynthos is a beautiful island in Western Greece that is famous for its crystal-clear waters, secluded beaches, and beautiful villages.

One of the many great things about Zakynthos is that you can enjoy the beautiful beaches for free.

In addition to swimming and sunbathing, you can also go snorkeling, sea kayaking, and even scuba diving. For more budget-friendly activities, you can take a hike to the top of Mount Skopos or visit the heavily photographed Shipwreck Beach for stunning views of the coast.

7 Cheap International Family Vacations This Summer

Istanbul, turkey, average cost to visit: $882 per week.

For those who are seeking insanely picturesque views and an entirely new and rich culture to dive into this summer, Istanbul, Turkey is the perfect budget-friendly option. Because of the lira exchange rate in Turkey, you can travel here for a very low cost.

There is so much to see and do in Istanbul on both the European and Asian sides, so it's recommended to spend at least four to six days here to experience everything.

During the summer, beat the heat by visiting Istanbul's numerous beaches or one of the 13 museums in the city that are completely free to visit!

If you're planning to visit the mosques in Istanbul, read up on a guide on what to wear and everything that needs to be covered! The dress code varies for men, women, and children.

Seaside, Oregon

Average cost to visit: $929 per week.

Located on the West Coast of Northern Oregon, Seaside is a beautiful beachy town that's perfect for an affordable summer vacation.

With a three-mile-long beach, seaside promenade, and an adorable downtown, Seaside is never short of fun and affordable activities for all ages.

After swimming in the ocean and relaxing on the sand, rent a bike to explore the town's scenic promenade or go for an evening hike in and around the town to a lookout of the Pacific Ocean.

Seaside is also a next-door neighbor to Cannon Beach, so I highly recommend taking a day trip to see the famous Haystack Rock and enjoy its quirky downtown shops!

Bali, Indonesia

Average cost to visit: $516 per week.

When people think of Bali, turquoise waters, rice fields, and ancient temples are usually what come to mind. But did you know that this tropical island in Indonesia is also extremely budget-friendly to visit?

For an average of $500, travelers can stay in high-quality beach hotels and resorts in Bali for all budgets and enjoy every aspect of the area's rich and inviting culture without breaking the bank.

Bali is every nature lover's dream. The island is filled with beaches and beach clubs, waterfalls, hiking trails , ancient temples, and rice terraces that will keep you busy for days on end!

A great way to immerse yourself in the Balinese culture is to explore the cuisine. Food and drinks in Bali are very inexpensive and even most cooking classes are an average $20-30 per person.

17 Things You Should Know Before Booking A Trip To Bali

Tallinn, estonia, average cost to visit: $712 per week.

Tallinn, Estonia, is Europe's most hidden gem. And not only for its breathtaking views and fairytale streets, but also because of its insanely cheap restaurants, museums, and transportation.

Estonia's capital city sits on the Baltic Sea and is considered one of the most beautiful cities in all of Europe .

Tallinn is also one of the most well-preserved medieval cities. Today, you can wander through the Old Town, walk through the old gates, and explore the museums that feature 17th and 18th-century artifacts. Tallinn also offers free walking tours of the city every day that are worth checking out!

Ferries from Tallinn to Helsinki, Finland are available every day and usually cost around $114.

7 European Vacations Under $1,000

Hi an, vietnam, average cost to visit: $318 per week.

While Hội An is one of the most visited cities in Vietnam, it remains one of the cheapest places to travel in 2024 for summer.

This charming city is known for its ancient architecture, vibrant lantern-lit streets, and mouth-watering street food for an insanely low price.

The cheapest and most efficient way to see Hội An is by renting a bike. For less than $2 a day, you can go on a self-guided tour through the city, the rice fields, and the beaches.

A free activity that everyone can enjoy is the Hội An Lantern Festival , which takes place on the 14th of every lunar month.

Cape Town, South Africa

Average cost to visit: $686 per week.

Cape Town is a beloved city in South Africa that is both a bustling urban center and surrounded by breathtaking nature. Not to mention, it's an ideal place for Americans to visit during the summer on a budget.

The summer months in North America are actually the winter months down in Cape Town, which means fewer crowds, cool temperatures, and great value for low prices.

Plus, the winter in Cape Town means you'll have a great chance at whale watching due to the whale migration at this time of year, and the cooler temperatures make it the perfect season for outdoor activities like surfing, paragliding, and hiking the famous Table Mountain .

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Top cheapest countries to travel from India

TRAVEL TRENDS , WORLD Updated : May 13, 2024, 13:30 IST

Traveling doesn't always have to break the bank. For Indian travellers seeking affordable yet memorable experiences, there exists a number of destinations around the globe that offer incredible value for money. If you are intrigued by now, here’s a curated list of the top cheapest countries to travel from India.

Not so far away from India, Nepal is a budget traveller's paradise. From the majestic Himalayas to the bustling streets of Kathmandu, Nepal offers a wide variety of experiences at pocket-friendly prices. Trek to Everest Base Camp, explore ancient temples, or simply soak in the breathtaking scenery – Nepal has something for everyone.

With its stunning beaches, lush tea plantations, and ancient ruins, Sri Lanka is a gem waiting to be discovered. From the historic city of Kandy to the pristine beaches of Mirissa, Sri Lanka offers tons of attractions at affordable prices. Indulge in delectable cuisine, explore UNESCO World Heritage sites, and try wildlife safaris – all without breaking the bank.

Famous for its lively culture, dynamic markets, and unspoiled coastlines, Thailand stands as a top choice for budget-conscious travelers. While visiting, explore the vibrant streets of Bangkok, the serene islands of Phuket and Koh Samui, and a plethora of other attractions. Additionally, Thailand provides plentiful options for budget-friendly accommodations, transportation, and dining, ensuring an accessible and enjoyable experience for all visitors.

Vietnam is dotted with breathtaking landscapes, vibrant history, and mouthwatering cuisine, all at remarkable affordability. Whether strolling through the lively streets of Hanoi, sailing amid the scenic wonders of Halong Bay, or hiking across the enchanting terraced rice fields of Sapa, Vietnam ensures unforgettable adventures within budget-friendly parameters.

Home to the iconic Angkor Wat temple complex, Cambodia is a treasure trove of cultural riches. From the vibrant capital of Phnom Penh to the tranquil beaches of Sihanoukville, Cambodia offers a wealth of attractions at affordable prices. Explore ancient temples, sample local delicacies, and immerse yourself in the country's rich history and culture.

With its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant culture, Indonesia is a budget traveller's dream destination. From the bustling streets of Jakarta to the tranquil shores of Bali and Lombok, Indonesia offers a diverse array of experiences at affordable prices. Explore ancient temples, hike up volcanoes, or simply relax on pristine beaches – the choice is yours.

With its diverse cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities, Malaysia offers incredible value for money. From the bustling streets of Kuala Lumpur to the idyllic beaches of Langkawi and Penang, Malaysia offers a wealth of attractions at affordable prices. Indulge in delicious street food, explore ancient temples, and immerse yourself in the country's rich cultural tapestry.

Philippines

With its stunning beaches, vibrant cities, and warm hospitality, the Philippines is a budget traveller's paradise. From the bustling streets of Manila to the pristine shores of Palawan and Boracay, the Philippines offers a wealth of attractions at affordable prices. Explore coral reefs, swim with whale sharks, or simply relax on white sandy beaches – the possibilities are endless.

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Traveling doesn't always have to break the bank. For Indian travellers seeking affordable yet memorable experiences, there exists a number of destinations around the globe that offer incredible value ...

Flights from the US to Europe are going to be incredibly expensive this summer — here's why

• Tickets to Europe are averaging just under $1,200, a 37% increase compared to both 2019 and 2022.
• There's high demand for international summer travel and likely not enough seats to satisfy it.
• The costs are likely to cool next summer as travel goes back to normal. 

Americans have their eyes set on international travel — and Europe especially.

Searches for international flights are 42% higher than they were this time last year, with destinations in Europe topping the list, according to travel websites Kayak and Hopper . 

Prices have also surged. Airfare to Europe is averaging just under $1,200 per round trip ticket, Hopper's lead economist Hayley Berg told Insider, a 37% increase compared to both 2019 and 2022. If you want to fly to Europe this summer, you're likely going to spend $300 more than you would have before the pandemic. 

"Most travelers were looking at domestic trips last year," Berg said. "This year they've had the time to really plan European vacations, so we're seeing outsized demand for travel to Europe, but as of May there's still only about 84% of the capacity that was available pre-pandemic."

A lot of demand and not enough seats puts immediate upward pressure on prices, she said. 

Airlines like United and Delta have been ramping up their US to Europe flights, increasing capacity by 31% and 13% respectively compared to 2019, according to data by the flight database OAG seen by Insider. 

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But others still haven't caught up to pre-pandemic levels. German giant Lufthansa, for example, has a planned summer 2023 capacity that is 19% less than what it had in 2019. 

Additionally, while jet fuel is cheaper than last year's record highs, it's still pretty expensive at around $90 per barrel. 

"Long haul flights are high cost to operate," Berg explained. "So the airline really needs a full plane to realize a lot of revenue on those routes, and you have to charge more to keep the margin." 

Trending destinations in Europe include the usual suspects — London, Paris, Rome — but also less popular places, like Milan, Italy; Montenegro; and the Canary Islands in Spain, according to Berg. 

Asia is right behind Europe in terms of searches, with ticket prices averaging at over $1,800, a 62% increase compared to pre-pandemic times. 

The price increases are dizzying, but fortunately, they're probably not here to stay. Last year, it was flights within the US that had their most expensive summer in years, averaging $376 round trip. That was mostly due to jet fuel prices and lack of capacity, but prices for 2023 have normalized . 

"Next summer for international will be less expensive than this summer and probably start returning to some level of normalcy similar to what happened with domestic," Berg said. 

In the meantime, if you really can't give up on Europe in 2023 and don't want to spend too much, she suggests waiting until September to go. 

Watch: What it's like to ride the world's longest flight

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This affordable Nordic city is the sauna capital of the world

Moomins, cheap coffee and icy plunges await in finland’s tampere, just 90 minutes from helsinki.

A sk anyone who lives in Finland’s second city why they love it and they’ll all say the same thing: the easy-breezy access to nature. Tampere is less a city than a country town sandwiched between two mirror-still lakes, with more public saunas than anywhere else (easy to see why it claims the “sauna capital of the world” title) and a nature reserve just beyond its red-brick industrial core. In true second city form, it’s walkable, welcoming and — whisper it — affordable, which has quickly made it the fastest-growing region in Finland. This inland city is a snowy wonderland in winter and a place of never-ending daylight in summer. But whatever the season, you can be guaranteed a good time, probably in a sauna followed by an icy lake plunge.

At a glance

• Morning: Market Hall • Eat at: Ravintola Nasinneula • Afternoon: Moomin Museum • Drink at: Tallipihan Kahvila • Evening: Sauna-Restaurant Kuuma • Eat at: Ravintola Tampella

• Morning: Pyynikki Nature Reserve • Eat at: Pyynikin Munkkikahvila • Afternoon: Tahmelan Huvila • Drink at: Moro Sky Bar • Evening: Nokia Arena • Eat at: Saivo

• In 1901, the Tampere Market Hall was where fishermen brought their salmon, perch and whitefish straight to be sold. Today, the arctic-blue hall is home to mini restaurants (residents say you’ve won the lottery if you score a lunchtime table at the Umami sushi counter), bars and hyper-local grocery shops such as Minna Vallius that are enjoying a Gen Z resurgence. It’s a great spot for a morning coffee (kauppahalli.tampere.fi). • The world’s only Moomin Museum, in the slightly characterless Tampere Hall, is an evocative lens into Tove Jansson’s illustrated troll world. There are plenty of interactive elements such as the Hobgoblin’s hat — great for kids — and original artwork from the books (£12.50; muumimuseo.fi). • Calling itself the “sauna capital of the world”, Tampere has more than 50 public saunas in the city centre and countless more private ones — chances are wherever you’re staying will have one. Of the public ones, Kuuma, in a modernist glass building overlooking the harbour in the city centre, combines a wood-smoke sauna, a wooden deck for lake plunges and a restaurant/bar. It’s the place to be in the early evening when the city lights start twinkling (from £10; saunaravintolakuuma.fi). • The Pyynikki Nature Reserve, on an isthmus between the Nasijarvi and Pyhajarvi lakes, has a variety of hiking trails branching out like spiders’ legs underneath its pine trees. Get your bearings from the top of its 26m-tall red granite observation tower (£2). • Don’t leave town without trying the “loyly” (the unique word given to the steam off the sauna rocks) at Tahmelan Huvila, on the banks of Lake Pyhajarvi, where an exceptional sauna comes with a plunge in the icy lake afterwards. You can also add on a massage, where a therapist will gently whack you with birch leaves — it’s much better than it sounds (from £7; tahmelanhuvila.fi). • The 15,000-seat Nokia Arena is a symbol of modern Tampere’s ambition: it’s now Finland’s biggest after the Helsinki arena closed due to Russian ownership. It hosts a dizzying array of big-ticket events, including matches of Tampere ice hockey teams, Ilves and Tappara, that locals go crazy for — if you’re in town for one of the many high-spirited games, don’t miss it (tickets from £17; lippu.fi).

Where to eat and drink

Ravintola nasinneula.

A favourite among Finns for a special occasion, this fine-dining restaurant at the top of the Sarkanniemi observation tower revolves slowly every 45 minutes to provide jaw-dropping views over the city and the lakes. Dishes from a slim menu are just as pleasing: artfully presented rainbow trout and scallops, whitefish with mussel butter and duck with raspberry sauce (mains from £25; sarkanniemi.fi).

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Tallipihan Kahvila

This atmospheric café in a former stable yard is the ideal place to partake in kakkukahvi : the Finnish version of Sweden’s fika . Order a flaky pulla bun, scented by cardamon, with your cuppa and enjoy your old-fashioned surroundings — all frothy white curtains, pale blue wallpaper and framed paintings of ducks (drinks from £2; tallipihankahvila.fi).

Ravintola Tampella

In a vast 170-year-old red-brick factory building overlooking the Tammerkoski rapids, loft-style Ravintola Tampella serves a crowd-pleasing international menu with Finnish twists. Each dish — including its handmade gnocchi, Finnish tenderloin and even horse steaks — comes with wine-pairing suggestions (mains from £21; ravintolatampella.fi).

Pyynikin Munkkikahvila

Fuel up on cheap coffee and a beloved munkki doughnut from the café beneath the Pyynikki Nature Reserve observation tower before spending a morning hiking and chasing lake views (doughnuts from £2; munkkikahvila.net).

Moro Sky Bar

On the 25th floor of Tampere’s tallest hotel, Torni, Moro has an extraordinary perch above the city to watch the watery sun go down. Black and white photos of Finnish Olympic medallists decorate the walls, while cocktails are the thing to order; try the Monte Cristo Martini, with espresso and Finlandia vodka, or the lingonberry spritz mocktail. Or order one of Finland’s “long drinks”, such as gin and grapefruit or gin and pineapple served on draught (cocktails from £11; raflaamo.fi).

Inside the Nokia Arena is this ambient restaurant with a strong Lapland influence. The decor is all dark wood, low pendant bulbs and reindeer skins; food and drink follows similar lines: “reindeer of the day”, Lappish cheese salads and whisky cocktails with cloudberries (mains from £20; kitchensaivo.fi).

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Where to stay

Radisson blu grand hotel tammer.

Old-school Finnish glamour The neoclassical Radisson is Tampere’s grandest stay with heavy wooden furniture, ice-blue suites and monogrammed carpets, complete with old-world photos and chandeliers in the lobby. It’s right on the Tammerkoski rapids, and is just a few minutes’ walk into the city centre ( room-only doubles from £93; radissonhotels.com).

Unity Tampere

Contemporary apartments in a nature reserve In a former factory on the pine-flushed Pyynikki ridge overlooking Lake Pyhajarvi is this aparthotel. There’s a range of rooms, from studios to larger apartments designed for longer-stay guests, and all come with fittings by the Tom Dixon design studio ( B&B doubles from £138; unity-living.com).

Lapland Hotels Arena

Modern Finnish design in the arena Although not the most evocative location, the Lapland Hotels Arena, which opened in 2021, is contemporary and plush — all dark wood, big windows and textured grey wool throws. Some of the higher category rooms have wooden saunas too — plus there are separate male/female saunas on the rooftop, which also has a funky bar ( B&B doubles from £153; laplandhotels.com).

Need to know

Tampere is a 90-minute train ride from Helsinki, which has regular connections from across the UK. The city does have a small airport, and was previously linked to London Stansted with Ryanair, although the route stopped in 2023 — locals are hopeful it will return.

Getting around

The city centre is compact, with the train station at its heart, and most places (except in the far reaches on the Pyynikki ridge) are walkable within about 20 minutes. For anywhere else, there’s the Nysse network of buses and trams; each journey costs £2.30 and you can use contactless payment. Cathy Adams was a guest of Visit Finland ( visitfinland.com ), Visit Tampere ( visittampere.fi ) and Finnair ( finnair.com )

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