best travel places on a budget

10 Best Places to Travel on a Budget

An ancient Buddha statue with a sash at a historic site in sunny Thailand

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.

Longtail boats parked on a beautiful beach on an island in Thailand

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?

Palm trees on the lush coast of Panama, taken by Nomadic Matt

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

Ancient Buddhist relics at a historic site in beautiful Cambodia

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

Clear, stunning water near the lush mountains of Albania

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

The famous Great Wall of China rolling over the landscape

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

A view of old buildings along the famed Ganges River in India, with lots of people and boats

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?

The bustling capital of Georgia, Tbilisi, on a bright and sunny day

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

A narrow street with bright colors and an old tram going up the hill in Lisbon, Portugal

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

An iguana relaxing on the warm stones of Tulum, Mexico

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

A view looking over the blue roofs of Chefchaouen in sunny Morocco

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)
InsureMyTrip (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.

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.

A narrow alleyway in a quiet market in Morocco, lined by small shops selling colorful wares

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The 31 Cheapest Places to Travel in 2024

05/01/2024 by Kristin Addis 90 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?

I’ve traveled to over 65 countries over the past decade, and that on the ground research informs this list year after year.

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

The Cheapest Travel Destinations In the World in 2024

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

READ NEXT: The Cheapest 5-star hotels in the USA

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!

About Kristin Addis

Kristin Addis is the founder and CEO of Be My Travel Muse, a resource for female travelers all around the world since 2012. She's traveled solo to over 65 countries and has brought over 150 women on her all-female adventure tours from Botswana to the Alaskan tundra.

Cheapest Nicest: 10 European Cities to Visit on a Budget

10 Cheapest Cities in Europe to Visit on a Budget

Getting to Europe is expensive these days—by the time you're there, you might feel like you can't afford to do anything. Fear not, some of the cheapest cities in Europe can be just as exciting as a Venice or a London (some of the continent, and the world's, more expensive places to spend time). There's some equally beautiful tourism spots where you can get around much more cheaply. We've broken down some of the latest data to find the cheapest cities in Europe to visit in 2023. A coastal cosmopolis, snow-capped city, and more await without breaking the bank.

Note: you’ll notice some wonderful European cities missing from this list, namely Kiev in Ukraine . It has been tragically affected by the war in Ukraine, and should be avoided until safe to visit – until then, find out how to help the people of Ukraine right now.

Athens, Greece

This year’s Post Office City Costs Barometer ranked Greece’s historical capital as the cheapest location for an autumn city break in Europe, and noted that priced have dropped by 15 per cent since 2021. Hotels in Athens are of particularly good value, with plenty of small, family-run and boutique spots. According to the survey, two nights at a three-star hotel for two guests average $110–but super-central One Three One is steps away from Monastiraki Flea Market and goes as low as $68 per night, while guests will find balcony views of the acropolis at Hotel Adonis, which has a rooftop terrace and costs as low as $102 for a double room (breakfast included).

Lisbon, Portugal

While the pretty Portuguese capital is known for its award-winning restaurants , travelers can still dine out on a dime–after Athens, it’s the cheapest city for a three-course meal (averaging around $50). On the move, you’ll get change from a two-euro coin when buying coffee or a mandatory pastel de nata from Pastéis de Belém, a beer costs around $3 (putting London’s £6 pints to shame) and a $0.75 Viva Viagem card can save you up to half off tram journeys. For a place to stay, there are plenty of affordable hotels in Lisbon . We love Hotel 1908 , where smart rooms in one of the city’s most iconic buildings can be booked from $160 per night. Or you can save further by opting for an Airbnb. Some of the city's top trending Airbnbs, like this pretty apartment with a private balcony in Lapa , can be taken over for around $60 per night.

Klagenfurt, Austria

Klagenfurt is one of Austria’s most affordable cities to visit (main courses are around $7; the farmers’ market on Benediktinerplatz is a great place for local bargains), and its spectacular setting on the eastern bank of Lake Wörthersee makes it one of the most scenic, too. June is the cheapest time to go, before the summer crowds and wild swimmers descend on the waterfront.

Kaunas, Lithuania

Vilnius has long been topping lists of the cheapest places to go on holiday, but Kaunas to the west is even less expensive, and earlier this year was named as one of 2022’s European Capitals of Culture for its music, art and theatre. Its yearly CityTelling Festival hosts a wide variety of performances and exhibitions that place the city’s Jewish heritage centre stage, and access to most events is free, while four-star hotel rooms are as little as $75 a night. For the best views of the Baltic city, a funicular up Aleksoto Hill will cost just a couple of euros. The best bargain in town? Spurginė’s $0.92 spurgos (or doughnuts).

Riga, Latvia

According to the Post Office, Riga is one of the cheapest cities in Europe, coming in a close second after Dublin for culture and Athens for accommodation. Wind your way through the narrow alleyways of the charming Old Town, find €2 samsas for lunch at the central covered market located in converted Zeppelin hangars, watch free live music in Dome Square and see striking architecture such as the House of the Blackheads ($7 entry) and the medieval Swedish Gate. But one of the most underrated ways of seeing Riga is on the water–rent a paddleboard for just $18 on the banks of the Daugava River.

Berat, Albania

Like Puglia’s trulli or Chefchaouen’s all-blue buildings, Berat’s unforgettable white Ottoman houses are totally unique in their collective existence and visual impact. The simple, traditional rooms inside also provide a super-affordable way to stay here, as many are guest-houses or independently-run hotels, such as Hotel Vila Aleksandar or Hotel Mangelemi , both around $43 per night. Head up the steep cobblestoned streets to see the 13th Century Berat Castle (entry is free) and take in the ‘town of a thousand windows’ from the top.

Brașov, Transylvania, Romania

A cheaper alternative to Bucharest (which is still, by European standards, incredibly good value), Brașov is surrounded by the scenic Carpathian Mountains. A cable car up to the top of Mount Tampa costs just 20 lei ($4.20) for aerial views of the brick-red rooftops, whilst local tour operator Walkabout provide a free walking tour every morning at 10.30am, setting off from the fountain in Piata Sfatului. Pick up local delicacy kürtőskalács (a spit-roasted, sugar-covered ‘chimney cake’) to maintain your energy levels from the stall nearby.

Sofia, Bulgaria

Not only did Bulgaria take the lead (side by side with Turkey ) as cheapest all-round destination in Europe in the Post Office’s Holiday Money Report 2022, but the country is also home to some of the world’s cheapest ski resorts. Sofia, the capital, is just over 10km away from the Vitosha Mountains which provide impressive winter conditions for snow bunnies and cost a fraction of the price of resorts in France or Italy. Wine and Bulgarian beers are notoriously cheap, and downtown Sofia is known for its high-energy party atmosphere. Entry to clubs is seldom more than $13, with live DJ sets and late-night events at Maze or Culture Beat (which also has a great summer terrace for cocktails).

Alacati is a beautiful and small Aegean town on the western coast of Izmir Province in Turkey which has been famous for...

Izmir, Turkey

Travelers to Turkey can get great value for money. On Turkey’s Aegean coast, Izmir has resisted the price hikes of Istanbul and tourist traps of Ankara whilst preserving its 8,500-year-old Kemeraltı bazaar and ancient Roman agora. The historic sites and architectural relics coexist with cosmopolitan culture and traditional cuisine–try pide on the pier or baked potatoes with a choice of toppings at Atıştır Café. An hour out of town is Ephesus, an ancient city built by the Greeks and well worth a detour.

Tbilisi, Georgia

Whilst the transcontinental city of Tbilisi is the most expensive place to live in Georgia, by European standards it’s exceptionally affordable for holidaymakers. A cascade of new hotels have opened in the last few years, such as the lovely Guest House Lile with double rooms from $25 per night. Foodies should book a table at Barbarestan, a family-run restaurant with authentic recipes and local ingredients, where you can eat for around £40 each – not bad for somewhere given a nod by the crew behind the World’s 50 Best Restaurants .

This article originally appeared on Condé Nast Traveller U.K. All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

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20 Best Cheap Places to Travel in 2024

Explore a national park, see a space shuttle launch or even leave the country with these safe, family-friendly vacation destinations.

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It’s true that those bucket-list destinations might have to move to a back burner for many travelers due to financial considerations. That doesn’t mean they need to sit at home, though. More people are turning to smaller cities, national parks, and other destinations they’ve never considered as they plan their next adventure.

Utilizing chain hotels with reward programs is one way travelers can save money, as is choosing cabins or condos with kitchens. Every fourth grader in America (and their family) is eligible for a free National Parks pass , as are people with disabilities and military members. Travel does not need to be expensive to be valuable. The benefit of looking at travel through this lens is that these locations are still packed with amenities and attractions at a lower price point. Check out some of the best cheap places to travel in 2023 that might not be on your radar — yet. I was lucky enough to be invited as press by many of the locations, and got to explore all the fun they have to offer firsthand.

Looking for more unique travel ideas? Good Housekeeping's Family Travel Awards features top-tested locations, based on data from travel experts and real families.

Lassen Volcanic National Park, California

California draws thousands of tourists each year to its most widely-known national parks, like Yosemite and Joshua Tree . They are fabulous, but the state is also home to Lassen Volcanic National Park . Located in the Cascade Mountains, Lassen has everything that visitors could need within the park, including lodging, junior ranger programs and dining options. Most visitors camp or stay at cabins or the guest ranch located within the park, but neighboring towns have a slew of motels and chain hotels that are incredibly affordable. According to Priceline , the average hotel room near Lassen costs around $116. There are also some kitschy properties like the River Inn , which evokes Schitt’s Creek vibes, for around $80 bucks a night.

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

an aerial shot of pittsburgh, a good housekeeping pick for best cheap places to travel

An example of Rust Belt Revival, the steel city has worked hard to shed its smoggy skies and expose its award-winning skyline . With more than 400 bridges and steeper streets than San Francisco, the city often surprises first-time tourists with how vast it is and how much there is to do. Pittsburgh is home to Mr. Roger’s legacy and is still the filming location for Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood . Stop by The Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh to pose by Roger’s iconic shoes and explore four floors of hands-on activities. There are also Carnegie Museums , a Smithsonian location and the National Aviary to explore. An influx of tech and medical sector workers has kicked the local food scene up a notch, too. While in town, every tourist must ride the Duquesne Incline to the top of Mount Washington to absorb that stellar skyline. An average domestic plane ticket to Pittsburgh costs around $280.

MORE INFORMATION

Badlands, South Dakota

a family poses for a photo by a rock formation in badlands national park, a good housekeeping pick for best cheap places to travel

Most Americans have seen a photo of Mount Rushmore, but more than half have never been there. While stopping by the mountain carving is a cool photo opp, the Badlands of South Dakota have so many other attractions to visit in addition. It’s also ultra-affordable, with an average hotel price of under $100. The Crazy Horse Memorial is an impressive rock carving — still uncompleted — honoring the Lakota leader who fought back against colonization. Badlands National Park is one of the richest fossil beds in the world, making it particularly enticing for dinosaur lovers. Every visitor to the Badlands is also required (unofficially, of course) to stop by Wall Drug , the rambling curiosities shop that attracts millions of visitors each year.

New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, West Virginia

a water park in west virginia, a good housekeeping pick for best cheap places to travel

Of America’s 63 national parks, New River Gorge is the most recent. The park is centered around the dramatic path of New River — which is, ironically, one of the oldest rivers on the planet. Geared towards adventure, there are more than 1,600 climbing routes , world-class whitewater rafting and amazing fishing. There’s plenty of camping within the park and hotels averaging $100 per night in nearby Beckley. ACE Adventure Resorts has everything from luxe cabins to rustic campsites as well as whitewater tours where kids raft free with an adult ticket. Locals love Tudor’s Biscuit World — a regional chain based in West Virginia — for a hearty breakfast before outdoor adventures.

Door County, Wisconsin

A popular getaway for locals, the waterfront fun of Door County is actually a great budget option for travelers from any region. Lodging in Door County ranges from chain hotels and Airbnbs to condo communities with amenities such as The Landmark Resort , with rooms starting at around $150. From sand sculpture contests to kayak and stand-up paddleboarding rentals, there are a ton of low-key affordable and free activities in Door County. While water sports are one of the biggest draws, it’s also a great winter-time getaway for ice fishing and cross-country skiing. It’s also a great spot to curl up with a good book in front of a fire.

RELATED: The Most Unique Airbnb Properties in Every State

Panama City, Panama

Who says you can't go international on a budget? Travelers who frequent Mexico’s resort towns should try Panama City, a wallet-friendly option with so much to do. While flights from the U.S. can be a bit expensive — Priceline cites an average cost of $650 — the affordability of lodging and dining makes up for it. At Riane Aeropuerto Hotel and Casino , which has a pool with swim-up bar, outdoor games and a round-the-clock airport shuttle, a standard hotel room is around $100. Hyatt’s Hotel La Compañía , located in a former Jesuit convent in the historical cultural district, offers a luxury stay for around $350 per night — half what a comparable room would be in Cancun. Along the Amador Causeway, which has a bit of a Key West Vibe, guests can explore museums, check out a sloth preserve, bike or grab dinner at a local favorite — Fishlovers Ceviche y Bar.

Québec City, Canada

Tourists regularly flock to Canada’s two largest cities, Toronto and Montreal, when it's time to head up north. But travelers shouldn't miss their third-largest metropolis, Vieux Québec, or Old Québec City. The destination is a UNESCO World Heritage site lined with cobblestone streets and 400-year-old buildings. Don’t worry about not speaking the language: Québécois kids begin learning English in first grade and residents are happy to assist tourists. With an average hotel price of $200 per night, Quebec City is often described by visitors as having a European feel due to the architecture and French language, but at a fraction of the cost of an overseas trip.

Titusville, Florida

the apollo 16 space vehicle is launched from kennedy space center

Florida has developed a reputation for affordable oceanfront vacations, but the post-pandemic travel boom has left many top spots like Daytona and Tampa short on hotel rooms. Titusville, located near Cape Canaveral on “ The Space Coast ,” offers everything more populous beach towns do at a more affordable price. The flight to Titusville costs around $250 and hotels average just $150. The Kennedy Space Center provides a full day of space flight simulations, tours and interactive experiences for kids and adults. While rocket launches are visible from many spots in and around Titusville, Marriott has a new hotel with rooftop launch viewing. There’s also a robust ecotourism industry in the region. The Marine Discovery Center offers boat tours, exploration, and even an occasional manatee sighting.

Washington, DC

While it’s not a small city or a lesser-known vacation spot, the nation’s capital is a truly affordable vacation with endless entertainment options. The Smithsonian museums and galleries, as well as the National Zoo, are all admission-free. D.C. has a vibrant and ever-evolving food scene that is perfect for a splurge dinner during a trip, but the cafés within museums as well as the food trucks and food halls across the city are packed with options at a much lower price point. The metro system is simple to navigate, so most visitors who fly to the capital will not need to rent a car.

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

the streets of downtown gatlinburg, a good housekeeping pick for best cheap places to travel

A survey by Campspot for their 2023 Outdoor Almanac ranked Great Smoky Mountains National Park as one of the top five national parks Americans hope to visit in 2023. Gatlinburg, considered the gateway to Smokies, is the perfect home base for travelers who want to explore the area. There are family-friendly campgrounds packed with amenities like Jellystone Pigeon Forge ; motels and cottages like Carr’s Cottages with family suites starting under $150 and plentiful chain hotels. From Ripley’s museum to mountain coasters and even their own space needle , it's impossible to get bored in Gatlinburg.

Indianapolis, Indiana

view of indianapolis skyline and canal walk

The largest children’s museum in the world is located in Indianapolis. The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis covers nearly 30 acres and draws over one million visitors each year. For families with kids, this attraction alone makes Indy a great destination for a vacation. There’s so much more to do there, though. Time your visit to coincide with the Indy 500 , or visit the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum to learn about the history of auto racing any time of year. For an experience with a slower pace, take a pedal boat tour on a portion of the Indiana Central Canal . Like most smaller cities, Indy is home to a plethora of hotels and Airbnbs — the average cost of a nightly stay is only $130.

Big Bear Lake, California

Located in San Bernardino National Forest , Big Bear Lake is an easy drive from Phoenix, SoCal and Las Vegas. Some visitors compare it to Lake Tahoe at a lower price point. The skiing includes more beginner trails and affordable lift tickets — and is generally less crowded than Tahoe. During the other months of the year, Big Bear has all the popular mountain town activities like kayaking, horseback riding, mountain coasters and ziplining. There’s also a vibrant mountain biking community in and around Big Bear Lake.

Leesburg, Virginia

For East Coast travelers looking for a quaint town to spend a quiet vacation in, Leesburg fits the bill. Located within Loudoun County just about an hour outside of Washington, D.C., it also makes a great home base from which to explore the city without staying in an expensive hotel. Downtown Leesburg looks like stepping into a postcard, with art galleries, restaurants and retail space tucked into historic buildings. Shoe’s Cup and Cork is a popular local spot located in a former shoe store that serves local sustainable food, wine and beer. In surrounding Loudoun County , there are tours of wineries, breweries and a woman-owned distillery, Catoctin Creek , inside a former Pontiac dealership. Flights to nearby Dulles Airport average just over $300 for domestic flights.

Flagstaff, Arizona

When tourists think of visiting the Grand Canyon , the most popular base camps are Phoenix and Las Vegas — which can be pricey. Flagstaff , which is just over an hour away, allows vacationers to explore the canyon on a smaller budget. Flying to Flagstaff can be expensive, but it makes a great road trip destination for folks who want to explore the southwest. There are many hotel and bed-and-breakfast options that average just over $100 per night. For a quirkier accommodation, the vintage Airstreams at Village Camp Flagstaff are adorably Instagrammable.

Columbus, Ohio

Half of the U.S. population lives within a one-day drive of Columbus — making it both accessible and affordable. Columbus is home to Jack Hannah’s zoo , which includes a water park called Zoombezi Bay . Visitors should give themselves two days to enjoy everything the zoo has to offer. The local science center, COSI , has been rated the best science center in America for three years in a row by USA Today . Many museums and zoos have reciprocal programs with the Columbus attractions, so check your local memberships for discounts. While in town, guests can spend a free evening walking, biking or enjoying the spray park along the river on the Scioto Mile .

Galveston, Texas

Galveston has developed a reputation for Texans as an affordable beach getaway — but with the average flight costing under $300, the Gulf Coast hotspot is a great option for any traveler on a budget. It’s easy to use hotel rewards in Galveston, but there are also RV parks like Camp Margaritaville and plenty of privately owned rentals averaging $160 per night. There is also no shortage of delicious beach-town eateries in Galveston that are uber-affordable. Playground Patio Bar & Grill has entertainment for all ages, and the Shark Shack makes a great quick lunch stop without having to brush off too much sand.

mother and toddler daughter exploring the famous wave of coyote buttes north in the paria canyon vermilion cliffs wilderness of the colorado plateau in southern utah and northern arizona usa

Arches National Park is one of the most stunning geographical formations in America. It’s also very, very rural. For adventure-seeking travelers who want to explore the 2,000 documented rock arches, the tiny town of Moab is a great spot to stay. Devil’s Garden Campground , located within the park itself, is traditional rustic camping with stunning desert views. Expedition Lodge , a vintage motel, is a better choice for visitors who want their own toilet and shower. Despite its rural roots, Moab has a great little food scene . The food truck park is a hit with visitors because everyone can get exactly with they want — no compromising necessary.

San Juan, Puerto Rico

Since Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory, visitors do not need a passport — which can be an expensive document to obtain. The average flight, according to Priceline, is also just around $300. San Juan is more than 500 years old and filled with historic buildings — with stunning beaches and rainforests surrounding it. Spotin Tours offers ecologically-conscious rainforest excursions for adults as well as kids. The Hotel El Convento is a registered historic hotel in Old San Juan with rooms starting under $150, and the Sheraton by Marriott in the same historic district is a great option for utilizing reward points.

Jekyll Island, Georgia

the jekyll wharf on jekyll island, ga, a good housekeeping pick for best cheap places to travel

The sleepy sister to the more popular Saint Simon, Jekyll Island is a budget-friendly way to enjoy Georgia’s Golden Isles . The oceanfront Holiday Inn resort includes free meals for kids 11 and under at any time of day as well as sweeping views of the Atlantic with a full-service poolside tiki bar restaurant. It’s a quick trip over to Saint Simon for more plentiful dining options, but part of the draw of Jekyll Island is its slower pace. Driftwood Beach has plentiful climbing opportunities for little kids, and the Summer Waves Water Park provides a great break from the waves. It’s not easy to fly to Jekyll, but it makes a great road trip.

Estes Park, Colorado

This mountain town situated just outside of Rocky Mountain National Park is made for individuals and families who love adventure. The average flight to Estes Park is under $250, and the town is less than 90 minutes from Denver. With classic eateries like Penelope’s World Famous Burgers and Fries and more foodie-friendly spots such as Himalayan Curry & Kebab , there are great meals for any budget. ATV and horseback tours allow visitors to see the mountainous terrain, and the fly-fishing is world-class.

Meg St-Esprit (she/her) is a freelance writer chasing down and covering the most interesting and quirky ideas about parenting, home design, education and travel. She lives with her husband, four kids and way too many pets in Pittsburgh. Her work has appeared in a variety of publications including The New York Times , Washington Post , Romper , Fodor's , and more. When she's not writing, she's definitely camping. Follow her on Twitter , on Instagram or at her website .

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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 .

Travel ideas for Greece, created by local experts

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.

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.

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!

Cultural and natural sites of Athens and the Peloponnese

Welcome to wonderful Athens for an unforgettable adventure. Enjoy getting lost in this maze of charming streets, where the modern sits beautifully with the ancient. Venture out into the Peloponnese on mainland Greece, and discover historical, cultural and natural wonders the region is blessed with.

An Odyssey Adventure in Ancient Greece

Learn the secrets of Ancient Greek mythology and history visiting the world-renowned site of the Acropolis, explore the unspoiled landscape of Peloponnese, become a true Spartan warrior in Thermopylae and much more - this self drive tour takes you on a real Greek adventure.

Explore Classical Greece: self-drive motorhome trip

This 15-days motorhome road trip will take you to Athens, the city of legends and some of the most fascinating classical sites, such as Epidaurus, Olympia, Delphi and the man-made marvels of the Corinth Canal and Byzantine monasteries of Meteora. A perfect tour for history.

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 © Shutterstock

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, South Africa - aerial view © Mark Van Overmeire/Shutterstock

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.

food-street-pho-vietnam-shutterstock_274359428

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 © Chaykovsky Igor/Shutterstock

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

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

Hydra Island, Greece © Anastasios71/Shutterstock

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 visit Guatemala , our tips for travelling in Guatemala and read our breakdown on how many days are the best to spend in Guatemala .

Want to ensure a carefree vacation? Also, check out our important safety tips for Guatemala .

Find budget places to stay in Guatemala

el-arco-antigua-city-agua-volcano-guatemala-shutterstock_769890442

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

Panoramic view of Golden Sands beach (Zlatni Piasci) in Bulgaria © Aleksandar Todorovic/Shutterstock

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

alentejo-portugal-shutterstock_105769898

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 .

Tip from Rough Guides: Learn about the best ways to get to 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

Beach Zipolite Oaxaca, Mexico © Shutterstock

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

song-river-at-vang-vieng-laos-shutterstock_655851064

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

green-vervet-monkey-shutterstock_178117055

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

lujiazui-shanghai-china-shutterstock_425475433

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

Blue mosque, Instanbul © OPIS Zagreb/Shutterstock

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

Small Temple of Nefertari, Abu Simbel, Egypt © Shutterstock

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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30 places to travel on a budget

Updated On 28th February, 2024

Travelling on a budget is a win-win situation, really. You get to have just as much fun and adventure, without breaking the bank.

Anyone who’s followed me for a while now knows that I love a good bargain. And for me, this is so important when I’m travelling. Yes, luxury travel has it’s place and I’ve been fortunate enough to go on some pretty epic, deluxe adventures . But, some of my favourite travel memories have been from the cheaper trips: trips where I consciously tried to travel on the cheap and save money for more adventures later down the line.

Check out my top tips for travelling on a budget here!

SEE ALL MY BUDGET TRAVEL ADVENTURES HERE

SEE ALL MY MONEY SAVING TRAVEL TIPS HERE

In this blog post I’m going to share some of the best places to travel on a budget. There are cheap destinations all over the world, it’s just a case of choosing one and then planning your next adventure! See my top tips for planning your next trip here.

Note: the budget destinations I’m sharing in this post reflect the cost on the ground, when you get there. This list doesn’t take into account getting to your chosen destination, because flight prices vary depending on where you’re coming from. However, please do factor this into your costs when looking into budget travel options! To check flight deals on Skyscanner, click here.

Note: The daily budgets suggested in this blog post don’t include flights, and are approximate budgets for shoestring backpackers. If you prefer something a bit more lavish, you’ll need to account for this in your planning!

Here are 30 of the best places to travel on a budget…

Asia is an excellent place to travel on a budget, because of the cost of living there. In many countries in this vast and diverse continent you can sleep and eat for less than £10 a day (combined!), leaving you more of your budget for activities and tours… or, if you don’t want to do these, giving you a very cheap adventure!

Here are a few of my favourite places to travel on a budget in Asia…

1. indonesia.

Approximate daily budget: Rp 300000/day (≈£16/€18/$20 USD)

A country that I’ve fallen in love with time and time again, Indonesia really is a great place for budget travel. I’d say it’s one of the cheapest places to travel in Asia, or even in the world! From the famous island of Bali , to the smaller, less travel islands that are equally as beautiful, and the larger islands of Java and Sumatra, Indonesia provides plenty of opportunity for adventure on a budget.

Check out my post on budgeting for Bali here.

An Uluwatu Bali travel guide: The best things to do, see and eat

EXPLORE INDONESIA ON MY BLOG HERE

2. The Philippines

Approximate daily budget: ₱ 1000/day (≈£16/€18/$20 USD).

The Philippines is a destination that changed my approach to travel , and I can’t wait to return there one day. From the stunning beaches to the deep blue lagoons, you can really have a ‘luxury’ holiday on a backpacker budget in the Philippines! The Philippines is also one of the cheapest places to do adrenaline-rushing activities such as canyoneering, skydiving, paragliding, and swimming with whale sharks. Check out my experience of canyoneering here.

Moalboal Travel Guide Cebu Philippines | Where's Mollie? A Travel and Adventure Lifestyle Blog

EXPLORE THE PHILIPPINES ON MY BLOG HERE

Approximate daily budget: रू 2500/day (≈£17/€19/$20 USD).

This small country in the Himalayas is a cheap and safe destination for every backpacker. Nepal is really popular for its trekking, so if you want to join guided treks, you may be closer to the top end of the budget. I’d love to incorporate a trek with relxing in Pokara and exploring Chitwan National Park!

Preparing for a trekking holiday? Check out my beginner’s guide to hiking here.

Approximate daily budget: ₹ 1350/day (≈£14.50/€16.50/$17.50 USD).

India has been on my bucket list for such a long time, and so it’s even better that it can be done on a backpacker budget! From the mountains in Ladakh, to the tropical haven of Goa, and the beaches of Kerala to the hustle and bustle of Dehli… I cannot wait to go and explore!

India Google Map Legend

Get lifetime access to my endless hours of research and time spent on the ground finding the best places to eat, drink, relax and explore in the area. You simply open the Google Map on your device and all my pins are at the touch of your fingertips.

5. Cambodia

Approximate daily budget: 82000 r/day (≈£16.50/€18.50/$20 USD).

I first went to Cambodia during my first solo backpacking trip , and loved it. A country with a complex history worth learning about while you’re here, but also with beautiful islands, beaches and mountains, as well as the famous Angkor Wat.

EXPLORE CAMBODIA ON MY BLOG HERE

6. Malaysia

Approximate daily budget: RM 100/day (≈£19/€21/$23 USD).

Budgets for Malaysia depend entirely on where you stay; Kuala Lumpur is a lot more expensive than the rest of the country. I’d love to spend more time in Malaysia and explore more of the jungle and the islands.

EXPLORE MALAYSIA ON MY BLOG HERE

Approximate daily budget: ₭ 180000/day (≈£16.50/€18.50/$20 USD).

This landlocked Asian country is often overlooked by backpackers, who often visit just for a visa run. Take some time to explore the caves, mountains and culture in Laos, and I can guarantee you’ll be surprised!

8. Pakistan

Approximate daily budget: Rs 3000/day (≈£15/€17/$19 USD).

Tensions in Pakistan in recent years have subsided, and I’ve heard that it’s a beautiful country to explore. From the stunning mountains to the cities full of culture and colour, Pakistan can offer something to every budget traveller!

Note: The visa application for Pakistan is long – just something to be aware of! You also need a ‘Letter of Invitation’ from a tour company, so you’ll have to book onto a tour for at least part of your trip.

Approximate daily budget: ₫ 400000/day (≈£14/€16/$22.50 USD).

I loved exploring Vietnam during my solo backpacking trip and I’d return in a heartbeat. As well as rediscovering Hanoi, I’d love to see more of the waterfalls, beaches and National Parks this beautiful country has to offer.

Check out my backpackers guide to Hanoi here.

EXPLORE VIETNAM ON MY BLOG HERE

10. Thailand

Approximate daily budget: ฿ 800/day (≈£20/€23/$25 USD).

Thailand was the first place I went on my first backpacking adventure, back in 2013. The islands, jungles and cities stole a piece of my heart forever. Thailand… I promise I’ll be back soon!

Remember that the north is cheaper than the south! Check out my budgeting guide for Thailand here.

EXPLORE THAILAND ON MY BLOG HERE

11. Sri Lanka

Approximate daily budget: රු, Rs 4700/day (≈£21/€23/$25 USD).

This small island off the coast of India is well worth exploring. Beaches, surfing, wildlife, hiking, waterfalls, wellness… you name it, Sri Lanka’s got it, and all on a budget!

EXPLORE ASIA ON MY BLOG HERE

Backpacking for the first time? Check out this bucket list of destinations for the first-time backpacker!

Sri Lanka Google Map Legend

Central america.

There are a few big gaps to fill on my travel bucket list, and Central America is one of them! Having put together this list of budget destinations, I now have even more of an urge to go…

Here are a few cheap places to visit in Central America…

Approximate daily budget: Mex$ 700/day (≈£25/€27/$30 USD).

Mexico is a really diverse country and how much you spend really depends on where you want to go. For a budget adventure, avoid tourist hotspots like Cancun, and head to the hidden gems such as Baja California and Oaxaca.

13. Guatemala

Approximate daily budget: Q 200/day (≈£21.50/€24/$26 USD).

A unique destination for your list, Guatemala is home on Mayan ruins, dense rain forests, cascading waterfalls, black sand beaches and more!

Travelling sustainably helps the planet and also your budget, for example taking a reusable water bottle so you don’t have to pay for water! Here are 15 tips for travelling sustainably.

14. Nicaragua

Approximate daily budget: C$ 600/day (≈£15/€16.50/$18 USD).

Nicaragua is one of the cheapest countries in Central America. If you’re backpacking across Central America and you’re on a budget, you’d be wise to spend more time here than the more expensive likes of Costa Rica. The beaches, cities and islands are all worth exploring here, and you can even go and see the lava bubbling inside a volcano near Managua!

Cuba is one of the lesser travelled Caribbean countries. There are a lot of rumours that Cuba is expensive and difficult to travel around, but this is not the case! As long as you are happy to travel like a local (local buses), eat like a local (street food), and sleep in dorms, there’s no reason why Cuba can’t be a really cheap place to travel!

One strange thing about Cuba is the dual currency… the ‘local’ National Peso (CUP) and the ‘tourist’ convertible Cuban Peso (CUC). It reflects the wealth of tourists compared to the locals. Advice seems to be that you will need both currencies, but it’s much more expensive to travel on a CUC budget, so use the National Peso where you can!

25 National Pesos (CUP) = 1 Cuban Convertible Peso (CUC)
1 Cuban Convertible Peso (CUC) = $1 USD

This is why it’s harder to give an approximately daily budget for Cuba… it can be anywhere from $15-50 USD (£12-40/€14-46) depending on your backpacking style and the currency you use! But, you can definitely travel Cuba on the lower end of that budget relatively easily using the National Peso.

EXPLORE THE CARIBBEAN ON MY BLOG HERE

SOUTH AMERICA

Another huge destination on my travel bucket list, South America is somewhere that I can’t wait to take my backpack and explore. Most of South America is quite cheap, so it was hard to choose which ones to feature on this list, but if you have any other favourites then do let me know!

Here are some budget destinations in South America…

16. ecuador.

Approximate daily budget: $25 USD/day (≈£21/€23).

There is more to Ecuador than the Galapagos Islands, which as stunning as they are, come at a huge cost. Naturally if you book onto group excursions to see the Amazon rain forest or the Andes mountains then you will spend more money, but there are plenty of budget options available. The cities of Quito and Baños are also well worth spending some time in!

17. Bolivia

Approximate daily budget: Bs 150/day (≈£18/€20/$22 USD).

Bolivia is said to be one of the cheapest, safest and most beautiful countries in South America! I’d love to explore the world-famous salt flats, rain forest and Lake Titicaca.

For top tips travelling solo as a female, check out my guide here !

18. Colombia

Approximate daily budget: COL$ 120000/day (≈£25/€28/$30 USD).

When I get to backpack through Colombia, I’d love to explore the city of Bogota, hire a moped and explore Colombia’s countryside, use my PADI on the north coastline and hike the Cocora Valley!

Want to check out the reefs and explore the deep blue? Here’s my guide to getting PADI certified.

Africa is the most diverse continent I’ve visited. Mountains, desert, lakes, coral reef, rain forest, savanna… And hundreds of opportunities for adventure!

Here are some budget adventures to have in Africa…

19. south africa.

Approximate daily budget: R 700/day (≈£31/€35/$38 USD).

South Africa is where I went on my budget safari . Yes, you read that correctly; not every safari has to cost you £100s per person, if not more! Sure, any kind of tour adds to your budget significantly, so avoid if you’re on a really tight budget, but if you’re after a once in a lifetime budget experience, this is the one. Check out my budget safari guide here.

EXPLORE SOUTH AFRICA ON MY BLOG HERE

SEE ALL MY YOUTUBE TRAVEL VIDEOS HERE

20. Tunisia

Approximate daily budget: د.ت 45/day (≈£12.50/€14.50/$15.50 USD).

With 8 UNESCO world heritage sites, it’s no wonder that Tunisia was included on Lonely Planet’s Best in travel 2020 list ! The city of Tunis looks beautiful, as does exploring the Sahara in a 4×4!

21. Morocco

Approximate daily budget: DH 250/day (≈£21/€23/$25 USD).

With cities full of culture and colour, such as Fez and Marrakech, as well as the famous Casablanca, you’ll be pleased to hear that Morocco can be a really cheap place to travel!

Most of the budget destinations on this list can be travelled in even cheaper (as little as £10/day!) if you’re able/willing to free camp and cook for yourself for the whole trip, and don’t do any excursions.

22. Tanzania

Approximate daily budget: TSh 70000/day (≈£25/€28/$30 USD).

Tanzania, in particular Zanzibar, has been on my bucket list forever. Get on Pinterest to check out pictures of the tropical beaches, and you’ll see exactly why. If you’re on a shoestring budget, it’s best to avoid Zanzibar, however, as it’s one of the more expensive parts of the country. The beach town of Pangani also has beautiful beaches, and Tanzania is another great destination for a budget safari. Paradise on a budget? Yes please!

EXPLORE AFRICA ON MY BLOG HERE

Europe, the continent I’m lucky enough to call home. For me, Europe is the perfect destination for a cheap break because it’s only a short flight or train journey away. But if you’re further away, don’t worry; the long flight will be worth it when you get there!

Here are some places to travel on a budget in Europe…

Approximate daily budget: 100 zł/day (≈£20/€22/$24 USD).

An often overlooked destination, but one with plenty of adventure. Poznań and Wrocław are student cities, so naturally more budget friendly than Warsaw or Krakow , but you can still get great deals there too!

EXPLORE POLAND ON MY BLOG HERE

24. Albania

Approximate daily budget: L 3400/day (≈£25/€28/$30 USD).

Albania is the country that has taken me by surprise the most on my travelling journey so far. A country that I’d almost never heard of before my trip there, it surprised me with a stunning coastline , a wonderful capital (Tirana) , beautiful natural surroundings , and plenty of adventure.

Check out more hidden gems in Europe in this blog post.

36 amazing things to do in Europe: a Europe bucket list!

EXPLORE ALBANIA ON MY BLOG HERE

25. Georgia

Approximate daily budget: ₾80/day (≈£21/€23/$25 USD).

An underrated destination with vibrant cities, beautiful national parks, and excellent wine. You had me at wine on a budget!

26. Romania

Approximate daily budget: L 100/day (≈£18/€21/$23 USD).

With an eclectic history and a variety of things to do, Romania is great if you are travelling on a budget. Dracula’s castle, vibrant Bucharest, the Danube delta, brown bears and beaches, you will have a unique combination of everything you could possibly imagine, all in one budget friendly trip!

For safety tips for solo travel, check out these 12 ways to stay safe on your solo adventure!

27. Hungary

Approximate daily budget: Ft 9000/day (≈£23/€25/$27 USD).

Budapest is one of the cheapest cities in Europe (budget accommodation starts from Ft 2000/night!), and it’s great fun to explore too! From the thermal baths to a beautiful castle, the Danube river bank and more, you won’t be short of things to do in this European city.

Check out 22 top tips for travelling in Europe in this blog post!

Approximate daily budget: €30/day (≈£27/$32 USD).

Granted, some parts of Italy are really expensive (yes, I’m looking at you Rome , Milan and Florence!). However, if you head further south to the city of Naples, or the regions of Calabria, Puglia or Sicily, you’re guaranteed to have a much cheaper trip with just as much fun!

If you want to head to a big city, expect to spend closer to €50/day.

EXPLORE ITALY ON MY BLOG HERE

29. Portugal

Portugal is a stunning country, and one of the cheapest in the Eurozone. Some of the best things to do in Portugal are hiking and exploring the beaches… both of which are free! Bonus!

The cities of Porto and Lisbon are also very backpacker budget friendly, making it really easy to explore everywhere on a budget.

Portugal Google Map Legend

For even more places to travel on a budget in Europe, check out this post full of cheap European destinations!

EXPLORE EUROPE ON MY BLOG HERE

30. Australia

Approximate daily budget: $70 AUD/day (≈£37/€41/$45 USD).

Australia is certainly not the cheapest place on this list, and not usually included on ‘travel on a budget’ bucket lists. But, if you really want to see Australia, it can be done on the cheap! If you stay in hostels and cook your own food, you have more money to spend on activities, which you can get really good deals on! From Fraser Island and the Whitsundays to exploring Sydney , so much is available in Australia on a budget; you just have to look. Check out my budgeting for backpacking Australia guide here

Australia Google Map Legend

EXPLORE AUSTRALIA ON MY BLOG HERE

Have you travelled on a budget?

Where was your budget travel destination? I’d love to know!

Love as always and happy adventuring,

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IT’S LOVELY TO MEET YOU

I’M MOLLIE AND I STARTED THIS BLOG BACK IN 2013 WHEN I HEADED OUT ON MY FIRST BACKPACKING ADVENTURE.

I’D LOVE TO SHARE THE JOURNEY WITH YOU, WE’VE GROWN A LOT SINCE THEN!

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22 Best Budget Places to Travel This Year (2024)

Written by Becca

Updated on May 15th, 2024

Red roofed white buildings and a pedestrian walkway full of people next to a river with boats

What are the cheapest places to travel in the world? Check out these budget-friendly travel ideas for your next domestic or international travel.

This article may contain affiliate links. We earn a small commissions when you purchase via those links — and it's free for you. It's only us (Becca & Dan) working on this website, so we value your support! Read our privacy policy and learn more about us .

Best Budget Places to Travel

Medellin and Guatape, Colombia: Best for backpacking
India: Good for everyone!
Argentina: Search for your Latin soul
Porto, Portugal: Keep an eye on the sunsets
Tenerife, Canary Islands: Experience the island life
Peru: skip Machu Picchu
Tallinn, Estonia: Enjoy the long summer days
Guatemala: See Mayan ruins, volcanic eruptions and culture
Sri Lanka: Get adventurous
Panama: See beaches, mountains and cities
Taipei, Taiwan: Eat your way through!
La Paz, Bolivia: See indigenous Bolivian Culture
Mexico City, Mexico: Explore tacos, museums and mezcal
South Africa: Must-see vineyards, safaris and hiking
Vietnam: Let your budget take you far
Thailand: Trekking, Markets, Nature and amazing food
Philippines: Under-the-radar natural and cultural finds
New York City, USA: Find free things to do
Nicaragua: Climb volcanoes and visit colonial towns
Ecuador: Enjoy high-altitude living

Lithuania: Travel the less-visited country!

Laos: Take an adventure

Travel doesn’t have to be expensive! In my years of taking trips, I’ve felt the most confident (and happiest) when I’m in a destination with a budget-friendly cost of travel.

Some of my favorite places for travel are the cheapest, like Mexico, India, Colombia and Vietnam. I now make it my mission to travel to the affordable places with a bang for my buck.

Here’s muy list of the consistently most affordable places to travel where you can take a trip on the cheap.

Typical historic Canarian village buildings in La Orotava Tenerife

Medellin and Guatape, Colombia: Best for backpacking

There are so many things to do in Medellin and its neighboring town Guatape that make them excellent destinations for any time of year.

Medellin is known as having ‘eternal spring,’ meaning it’s slightly cooler in Northern Hemisphere winter time, and a bit warmer in summer.

As for rainfall, it’s slightly “lower” in fall (September - December), but, as it rains mostly every day anyway, every month of the year is a fair time to visit Medellin and the surrounding region.

Despite what you may have heard, Medellin is an awesome place to be as a traveler, from heaps of types of accommodation for every budget, to delicious food options ranging from Colombian to other types of South American for every taste bud.

You can eat great early, late and for inexpensive prices. One of our favorite things to do is to try Colombian coffee at some of our favorite cafes near El Poblado and take the free city walking tour .

As for the rest of the region and to get out of the city, two of our favorite weekend or two-day breaks are Guatape and Santa Fe de Antioquia .

Guatape is easy to get to from Medellin and even if you don’t speak Spanish, people will help you navigate the bus station. And if you’re wondering about safety, head over to our article answering the question, “Is Medellin safe for travel?”

View of Guatape islands and lakes from the Piedra del Penol in Guatape, Colombia

India: Good for everyone!

Yeah… India is really cheap for backpacking and international travel, and the rumors are true. The cost of accommodation is cheap in India. The cost of food is cheap. It’s a great place to pick when you need to travel for super cheap .

The only thing you have to watch out for in India is being gawked at as a foreigner or from looking different from the locals (and it’s likely you will), but the food is incredible, the markets are a shopper’s dream and basically everything is incredibly cheap.

On my first day in India, I picked up a pair of backpacker balloon pants for $4, and it felt expensive.

The currency in India is the Indian Rupee, and you can exchange it widely to and from the USD or other major currencies like EUR and GBP.

Bonus: if you’re gluten-free like I am, you’ll find Indian food rather gluten-free-friendly , so put it on the list.

Argentina: Search for your Latin soul

It happens to be an interesting time to visit Argentina , as the currency recently became favorable to holders of the US Dollar. In fact, (as of 2021), very favorable.

Argentina’s peso has fallen very sadly and incredibly against the USD, giving Americans lots of unexpected buying power in this otherwise slightly-pricey country for travelers.

Among some chilled-out things we have done in Argentina are exploring the cafe scene in Buenos Aires and walking for miles soaking in lots of the free sights of the downtown areas and cool neighborhoods.

If you venture westward toward Cordoba and the Sierra region, you’ll find that Cordoba, Argentina’s “second city,” has some unique things to do that travelers often overlook, and you can rent a car to road trip to small towns with scenic views.

Woman wearing a magenta pashmina walking on a side street with murals in Buenos Aires

Porto, Portugal: Keep an eye on the sunsets

We found Porto to be an absolutely wonderful place to be in summer, with late sunsets, great weather (most of the time) and friendly locals.

In summer, it’s a great time to picnic in Porto and watch the sunset near Gaia, or walk for hours seeing the different neighborhoods and beautiful tiled buildings.

For us, the highlights of Porto were all the places to see architecture, the trendy cafes, the views from Dom Luís I Bridge and the hilly streets of Ribeira.

Oh, and don’t forget the national artistic treasures all over the São Bento Train Station. This is a great sight to see, and it’s free.

We loved Porto and wished we had more time during summer to explore the nature not too far away. We continued on to the capital city of Lisbon , just a train ride away (book in advance for sure!).

Golden hour in Porto Portugal, a view of red-roofed buildings and homes of Gaia among green cliffs

Tenerife, Canary Islands: Experience the island life

In going back to Spain , we had no idea what to expect from Tenerife, a volcanic island famed for Carnival and the highest point in all of Spain, El Teide .

Summer is a great time to go, as rainfall is typically lowest during summer months, and this will be a pretty great time to travel there and enjoy the nature!

To get there, we had a layover and quick stop in Madrid that got our rusty Spanish back for the next few days we’d have in the Canary Islands.

In Tenerife, we spent some time in the absolutely lovely and relaxing town of La Orotava , working our legs on the hilly streets.

Tenerife has its own culture that’s similar yet different to that of mainland Spain. There are interesting outside influences (like an accent influenced by Cubans) and local cuisine as well.

For a coliving experience, if you’re traveling while working remotely or looking to stay in a house among some experienced travelers with a professional mindset, check out Nine Coliving , which was by far the best thing that happened to us in Tenerife!

With more time, you can island hop to Gran Canaria , which is worth a visit to see some awesome sand dunes in the south and the spectacular views along the roads in the southwest.

While we didn’t feel the Canary Islands were as budget-friendly as we had hoped, when it came to renting a car, but it was not terrible, either.

If you really want to keep your budget down, you can travel the entire island of Tenerife or Gran Canaria by public bus. Just keep in mind that you won’t be able to access every village or off-the-beaten-path beach inlet with the Canarian mass transit system.

Playa los Gigantes scene with tourists on a black sand volcanic beach and massive brown cliffs overlooking the sea

Peru: skip Machu Picchu

Peru is an affordable destination for travel if you skip the hyped super-touristy path that has now become a mainstay in ‘wonders of the world’ and bucket lists.

Peru is much more than Machu Picchu, which has come to be such a bucket-list item that you’ll find long lines, strict rules and crowds.

The cost of heading up to Machu Picchu for a few days will also set you back a few hundreds of dollars (even thousands, depending on which level of excursions you buy) as everything is priced for tourists, and even the train has a different prices for foreign nationals than for domestic travelers.

So, what to do in Peru, and why should you go there? Peru is massive, and for that reason, it can’t possibly be all touristy.

Get out to places like Arequipa, Iquitos, Mancora, Huaraz and Puno, if you want to skip Cusco, with its higher prices geared toward foreign tourists.

In Lima alone you can see authentic Peruvian-Chinese culture , a city park with rainbow fountains and heaps of other things to do in Lima on a modest budget like trying ceviche, ice cream made from local fruits and beer bars in Miraflores.

In Lima, we walked for miles, taking photos and eating street food, getting to know the city by foot. Do as the locals do: shop in the big markets, rent a bicycle and see some nice neighborhoods, sip a coffee at a cafe and people-watch in Barranco.

Then, take buses to the out-of-town destinations like Ica to go sandsurfing in Huacachina or Arequipa, one of my more favorite places, where Colca Canyon is another weekend trip away for hiking.

Silhouettes of two figures watching the sun set at the pacific ocean at the Malecon park of Lima, Peru

Tallinn, Estonia: Enjoy the long summer days

All of Tallinn, Estonia , was like a big surprise for us. In fact, we wish we could have stayed a whole lot longer in Estonia.

The charming city of Tallinn seems best to enjoy during summer, when the sun sets as late as 10:45 pm! (And you better have blackout curtains, because it rises at 4:00 am in July! Bring a sleep mask for sure).

Around the summer solstice, Estonians (and other cultures in the region, from Finland to Latvia) celebrate the Midsummer Festival, which means people take off from work, go to spend some time in the countryside and party all night (which is very short, because of how little darkness there is).

In Tallinn, walking around the compact Old Town is a great way to see architecture, history and lots of food, pubs and cafes. We stayed at one of the best hostels in Tallinn and found the city’s best cafes for digital nomads .

What we also liked about the Baltic region, especially in summer, is that it was easy (and picturesque!) to get from Estonia to Latvia .

With the stops along the way, we saw all the greens and other colors of Estonia (and the north of Latvia) that we had yet to see because we hadn’t left the Tallinn metro area.

Tallinn, Estonia, is a destination that will set you back in your budget more steeply than the Latvian capital of Riga or the Lithuanian capital of Vilnius, but believe me, the prices in Tallinn are a far cry from Western European destinations like France, Switzerland and England.

Shadow of a black rock jetty stretches into the Baltic Sea while the sun sets in Tallinn Estonia Pirita Beach

Guatemala: See Mayan ruins, volcanic eruptions and culture

I went to Guatemala specifically because I wanted to travel somewhere very cheap. I also lucked out because I chose Guatemala and it’s a fantastic budget destination.

Guatemala is one of the cheapest places to travel to in Latin America. If you’re deciding between a destination like Costa Rica and Guatemala, and you have a budget to stick to, you can go to Guatemala and spend half of what you would in Costa Rica.

Guatemala is a special place because the cheap-to-thrilling ratio is certainly at one end of the spectrum, meaning you can spend very little money and have an AMAZING time.

In Guatemala, I have stayed in super cheap hostels at Lake Atitlan and splurged for great value local coffees at Antigua’s cafes .

You can do a lot for free in Guatemala, too. There are markets abound, and volcanic eruptions you can watch as you walk down the street in Antigua .

It’s worth putting together some money to go on a day trip from Antigua to places like Volcan Pacaya, Chichicastenango, Acatenango or Guatemala City.

Planning to work remotely? Coworking spaces like Impact Hub Antigua cost only $6.50 per day for the use of a hot desk with unlimited coffee and tea.

A travel budget of $35 USD per day would get you a pretty fun time in Guatemala for your next adventurous international trip on the cheap.

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Sri Lanka: Get adventurous

All of Sri Lanka is affordable as a destination and all of Sri Lanka is good for all-year travel.

We went in the middle of July, expecting rain showers or monsoons, but we got lucky, and you can, too! We counted rain on two occasions in total, and it goes to show that ‘general climate reports’ may not accurately picture your 12-day holiday. We were mostly greeted with lush and green nature !

There are a few things to know about Sri Lanka , so it pays to see if this is a good place for you and your travel style.

Sri Lanka is an island near India and it’s a fascinating country where the people are peaceful and kind.

It has lots of tropical sub-climates, so it’s hot all year round on the coasts, and pretty moderate, to even chilly, in the center where the altitudes get higher.

Because of Sri Lanka’s location, it has two rainy seasons: at one point in the year, the East has rain, and at another point, the West does.

Again, summer was a fine time to go to Sri Lanka (and winter is as well). During July, we experienced rain no more than twice, which was a miracle, and could happen randomly whenever.

We were amazed at how budget-friendly Sri Lanka is, from guesthouses to meals in restaurants to admission fees at cultural sights like temples and Buddhas. We did awesome things that taught us all about the country.

We loved our visit to the Mackwoods Tea Plantation , which in summer, had a rather temperate climate (I needed a sweater as the sun got lower).

We also spent a half day in Galle Fort , which has a fascinating mix of cultures, from colonial influences to several religious groups all calling this place home.

Walking around Galle Fort was completely free, as was walking along the fortress wall, seeing the famous lighthouse and exploring the historic quarter.

Your budget will take you farther than you ever imaged in Sri Lanka, so with your leftover money, be sure to tip generously, only haggle if you feel you are being seriously ripped off and let shop owners keep the change. It means a lot to them.

A woman wearing a red and orange sarong walks up red steps at the big white buddha of Kandy Sri Lanka

Planning to pull the trigger and take that trip soon? Don’t miss our checklist for international travel prep and favorite apps for travelers .

Panama: See beaches, mountains and cities

Panama is the gateway of North America to South America, and it’s a fascinating narrow country to spend some time in.

In case you hadn’t heard, traveling in Panama is pretty cheap, and it feels that way especially if you’re coming from Costa Rica, like I was.

Panama is a mix of urban (Panama City and the Panama Canal) and rural (Boquete, Volcan Baru) and beachy (Bocas del Toro).

In recent years, places like Bocas del Toro have become incredibly popular with backpackers looking to travel on the cheap, and the standard of accommodations and eating has taken to a touristic level, meaning prices going up.

However, bargains and deals are still around in Panama, because the country is BIG, despite how it looks on a map, and there are lots of things to see if you travel by land from Costa Rica onward to Panama City (it’s around ten hours).

I certainly ate cheaply in Panama as a backpacker, and I stayed in hostels (my favorite was Mamallena in Boquete, as I detail in our guide to booking accommodations ), always dorm rooms, and always with friends.

In fact, I met friends on my Panama backpacking trip with whom I’m still close in touch with, to this day!

Back to the budget, though, you can surely eat for $2-3 in Panama, travel for a few dollars more, and stay in a hostel for $10 or less, per night.

This is a rather straightforward destination to visit if you’re looking for one of the cheapest places to travel in North America.

Taipei, Taiwan: Eat your way through!

Taipei is one of our favorite new destinations, and although summer is high (and hot and humid) season, what’s interesting is that Taipei gets rain all year round.

It can rain any day and sometimes unexpectedly, throughout the year, so considering summertime is a fine thing to do.

In the rest of Taiwan , you can find different climates as altitudes change, and what many tourists fail to do is to go hiking in the center of the country.

This region is tons less touristed , and you could find yourself alone with nature.

As for Taipei, there’s so much culture to see, and we liked learning more about a history we had never been exposed to.

For when you need a break from sun and humidity, there are lots of large shopping malls with huge food courts that have an array of Asian foods from all over the region.

You can have Taiwanese cuisine, Mongolian BBQ, Japanese sushi and Korean kimbap, all in the same spot. It’s impossible to choose!

In Taipei, there are lots and lots of things you can do for free .

We went to night markets (free entrance), famous memorials and their plazas like Chiang-Kai Shek Memorial and even the changing of the guard ceremony that happens daily and the many hikes that exist within the city (all free).

To cool off, try Taipei’s best cafes with WiFi.

It’s easy to spend a lot of time in Taipei and never spend too much money.

Take mass transit like the beautiful and immaculately clean Taipei metro, stay in a local hostel or guesthouse to support local businesses, and shop at local markets, where you’ll find beautiful produce like fruits, veggies and local treats.

Taiwanese locals visit Raohe night market and street vendor stalls in Taipei, Taiwan

La Paz, Bolivia: See indigenous Bolivian Culture

Bolivia is one of my favorite countries because it represents Old World South America.

It is one of the South American countries with the highest percentage of indigenous people, and it makes it a rich cultural experience to visit.

In La Paz, take the city free walking tour and learn about the city prison (I won’t spoil the details), the witches market and why Bolivian women wear Italian bowl hats.

Don’t forget to try the local treats and stay in any of the awesome hostels that provide nightlife for backpackers in La Paz, like Wild Rover or Loki.

In Sucre, see the White City, all for not too much money at all! A dorm bed in Bolivian hostels will be between $7 and $12 USD, and all have great security. Sucre has a laid-back atmosphere and lots of local life. It’s high up, altitude-wise, so make sure to take it easy.

In the middle of your trip, savor the experience of the once-in-a-lifetime trip to the high-altitude Uyuni salt flats. Any tour operator will take you to the highlights on a sunset one-day trip or a three-day trip, during which you’ll stay in a salt hotel (bundle up!).

In Potosi, a mining town, see local markets, local Bolivian street life and a history of silver mining.

Best of all, it’s pretty safe to take night buses in Bolivia, which helps with saving money and traveling sustainably , at the same time!

You can even try to haggle for a two-person deal if you are traveling as a couple .

Bolivia is one of the best value destinations in South America, and because of its landlocked location and the fact that its tourism infrastructure is newer than, say, that of Peru, every visitor is in for a real treat.

Mexico City, Mexico: Explore tacos, museums and mezcal

We couldn’t find anything that we did not love about Mexico City, and for anyone who lives in the Northern Hemisphere, it’s never too long of a flight.

Also, without giving the secret away too much, Mexico City is not expensive to visit (neither is our honorable mention of Merida, Mexico ).

With heaps of things to do Mexico City for every type of traveler, Mexico City is an incredible place to try lots of new foods with a food tour , see the local markets, try a margarita (or three) at a variety of bars (some on rooftops) and cool off with a cold brew at any of the popular specialty cafes .

Travelers like Mexico City for its value. You can Airbnb within your budget, and you can try new hostels like Selina Mexico City , which also has a coworking space and bar.

If we could move to Mexico City, we would. In fact, I’m not sure why we don’t live there. I can’t get enough of the food, the people, the scenery and the culture, and with a trip on the Mexico City costing only USD 0.25, it was hard to leave.

Regarding safety, check out “Is Mexico City Safe?” , our guide to scams, safety and health concerns in CDMX.

Two small white cups of black coffee, a croissant on a white plate and a brown paper bag of craft coffee in Mexico City Drip Cafe

South Africa: Must-see vineyards, safaris and hiking

One thing I have tried to research really intently is where in Africa to travel for cheap. It’s harder than it sounds.

In speaking with a really experienced traveler like my friend Daniel Herszberg , what I’ve learned is that a lot of Africa might be cheap for locals, but plain and simple: as a traveler, you’re in for a pretty penny.

I did not find this to be the case in South Africa, however.

For many reasons, South Africa is not like the rest of Africa. Its major cities have infinitely more Western influence, and South Africa’s European-descent population is about 9%, which is by far higher than other African nations.

This aside, South Africa has had a funny thing happen to it in recent years since about 2015. The currency took a big slide downward in value, and I talk about how this benefits the foreign traveler in my money tips for international travel .

What’s going on here is that the South African Rand (the national currency) devalued three to four times its former value pre-2015. This means thing started costing you, the visitor, only 25% of their previous prices.

So, for cheapest places in the world to travel, South Africa came out as an incredible destination of value. A $100 dinner cost $25, and that’s including steak and wine. A cocktail came out to $3 at a nice bar.

I could’ve done without these luxuries, and could’ve kept my budget even lower, to travel super cheaply in South Africa (but instead, I lived like a king).

My best recommendation for “know before you go” tips for South Africa is to check the exchange rate several months before you plan to travel, to determine what things like travel within the country and accommodation will cost.

I think food was my cheapest expense (it was continually unbelievable) in South Africa, because of that ZAR to USD conversion. These are the types of tricks that will keep you winning if you plan to travel the world cheaply and tick off all those super cheap places to travel (safely).

Vietnam: Let your budget take you far

Vietnam is incredibly affordable, even as prices might rise in summer (high season). Okay, Vietnam is actually one of the cheapest places I’ve ever been (I haven’t been to Pakistan, which many people say is the cheapest country in the world.)

During the summer, heaps of visitors from all over the world come to Vietnam, whether Europeans on summer holidays, Australians on their winter breaks, or Americans coming out for a big month-long Southeast Asia bender.

If you can book your Vietnam trip in advance, you’ll probably do fine, as most major Vietnamese holidays fall in January-February, when prices go up and have surcharges due to the new year festivals.

Vietnam is where your Dollar (or Euro) will for sure go further, from eating out to accommodation at great value. For example, it’s hard to get bored in the capital city of Hanoi, with all these things to do . Hanoi is a special place for us and we loved talking pictures to capture everything Hanoi has to offer.

Woman wearing a blue dress and jean jacket at a Buddhist temple in Hanoi Vietnam

You can drink Vietnamese coffee every day at [awesome cafes], take a trip to Ninh Binh or Sapa for the northern cultures, and see an impressive amount of the country without breaking the bank.

While summer is known as being wetter, with rainfall on average surpassing that of summer months in Vietnam, this is when places like the Sapa rice terraces will be vividly green, making for an incredible sight to see.

In winter, the same region of rolling hills is dry and brown because of lack of rainfall. Summer brings back the brilliance and the fresh crops.

Eat whatever’s on the street in cities in Vietnam. You can usually have a meal for 2 USD.

Thailand: Trekking, Markets, Nature and amazing food

I’m sure you’ve heard of Thailand, and I’m sure you have heard that Thailand is cheap.

How do I put this simply…. yes, Thailand is cheap (but Vietnam and Laos are cheaper - ha!).

But really, Thailand is an affordable place to travel on a budget. If you stick to Bangkok alone and you take guided tours or excursions, you will probably spend more than you thought you would.

However (!), if you head up north to Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai, and you go to smaller towns with equally-beautiful things to do like hikes and minority cultures and eco-tourism, you’ll be very satisfied with a small budget in Thailand for travel.

Having been to Thailand three times, I’ve stayed in cheap hotels, cheap hostels and also really expensive hotels (on my friend’s frequent flyer miles points).

There are many ways to ‘do’ Thailand, and there is something for everyone.

If you’re on an extreme travel budget, you can make Thailand work, and have an amazing time. Things also change very fast in Thailand due to the fact that it is one of the most popular travel destinations on the planet .

In January 2012, I stayed in Julie’s Guesthouse in Chiang Mai, Thailand, for $2.50 USD per night. It’s true. And I was a broke backpacker looking for a good deal.

Places like Chiang Mai have since skyrocketed in popularity, bringing the type of luxe travel to become quite mainstream there, but you can still find good deals, bargain for prices and stick to a low trip budget.

If your budget is on the extreme low end and you’re seeking the cheapest things to do, I recommend going to smaller locales in the center and northeast of the country, where tourism is newer.

I’d recommend avoiding the south of Thailand and the islands, where you’ll have to dish out for ferries, and where tourism has been strong for 30+ years, making competition rather tough.

Philippines: Under-the-radar natural and cultural finds

I bet you don’t know many people who’ve been to the Philippines and haven’t been to Puerta Princesa or Boracay. I personally have not been to either.

I’ve had two low-budget trips to the Philippines, traveling in the Manila metro region and in Cebu and Bohol.

What I am positive of is that the Philippines is one of the cheapest places to travel to in Asia. I really mean that. It is up there with Vietnam.

For a small fee, you can stay in a hotel or hostel, and for only several dollars you can take a taxi to a beautiful beach.

The street food will cost you less than what you could imagine, and bargaining is fair game. While awesome natural landmarks like the Chocolate Hills (Bohol) may have an entrance fee, it won’t be hefty.

A small budget will take you a serious long way in the Philippines, where there are more than 7,000 islands (you probably can’t see them all, nor would you need or want to) and a heap of things to keep you occupied on a trip of a month or more.

New York City, USA: Find free things to do

Now, we know what you’re thinking: isn’t NYC one of the most expensive places to travel ? The short answer is yes, but the long answer is no.

Let me explain.

If you know what to do in NYC, you can have a fantastic time on a low budget. NYC can be a value destination if you know how to stretch a budget thinner and do all the free amazing things in NYC during your trip.

First, I’d really recommend finding a friend, family member or friend’s family member to stay with. Accommodation in NYC is one of the things that will cost the most, but if you can pin that down as a freebie, the rest will work itself out. See here.

If you’re okay with skipping the “must-see” tourist attractions that every book says you have to do, such as the viewing platform at the Empire State Building , the Top of the Rock, the MoMA and any type of entertainment (save it for another time), you can have a budget in NYC of around $50 USD per day (if you travel with a buddy) or if you stay in hostel dorms .

If you’re a traveling digital nomad , check out our favorite laptop-friendly NYC cafes where you can spend time in cafes with WiFi and sometimes even a backyard or two.

If you’re a coffee fanatic, we’ve already listed our favorite cafes in Brooklyn , which make for a great way to venture into different areas, for coffee. Lastly, bookmark our guide to safety and avoiding crime in NYC , which will be very helpful indeed.

A few budget hacks for traveling in NYC on the cheap and not breaking the bank are these following tips:

Stay in a hostel-hotel like The Local , which books up fast, but plan ahead! They’ve got coworking space, rooftop views, a cool cafe-bar with friendly staff and clean, quiet shared rooms and privates.
Skip the paid attractions and opt for walking endlessly through NYC’s many neighborhoods like the gorgeous and walkable Brooklyn Heights and ethnic enclaves. Check out Coney Island, Jackson Heights, Flushing Chinatown and Little Italy of the Bronx (Arthur Avenue) and ‘pass’ on those lists of hot restaurants that ‘every visitor to NYC must visit.’
Take the subway and buses, always. This is the best way to get around New York, and if you opt for an unlimited weekly subway card, it’ll pay for itself in only a few days.
If you don’t want to hostel, Airbnb in one of Brooklyn or Queens’ outlying neighborhoods and get a feel what it is like to stay outside Manhattan (the center of it all, of course!). You’ll find the most affordable Airbnb options in Greenpoint, Williamsburg, Bed-Stuy, Ditmas and Forest Hills.

Woman walking on Broadway in Soho and Grand St in Soho, New York City

Nicaragua: Climb volcanoes and visit colonial towns

Nicaragua is a place that’s great for travel at any time of year and you can be sure that your budget will take you far.

From eating in markets for prices comparable to $2 for a vegan meal of rice, beans and avocado, to taking 2-day treks for around $70 with all-included guides, transport and camping for a night with Quetzaltrekkers, you can do everything you ever dreamed of in this Central American nation.

For beaches, don’t miss San Juan del Sur, the center of all backpacker life on the coast.

Take chicken buses, the quintessential Central American transport on old yellow school buses that have new lives in countries like Nicaragua, and sit next to locals, plants and sometimes… chickens.

This is the way to get around for around a dollar or less.

Ecuador: Enjoy high-altitude living

Ecuador might be a country you skip over in your mind. Did you know that its name means Equator in Spanish? Now you know why this country was named after its location, with the Equator running right through its middle.

What’s there to do in Ecuador? You can explore Cuenca, a beautiful colonial city, by foot, and see the birthplace of the Panama hat (yep, a bit of a mis-nomer).

For beaches, there’s Montanita, the hippie-dippie backpacker hub of the Pacific coast.

For museums, there’s the culture of Quito, the hilly capital, where you can climb a cathedral and look out at a rolling expanse of scenery before climbing down and exploring colonial architecture in the old quarter.

Lastly, get lost in Parque Nacional Cajas, named for ‘boxes,’ which will remind you of mossy scenes from Scotland.

Ecuador will give you highs and lows, from high-altitude cities where you really have to watch your health and how your body handles altitude high up, to the coast — Guayaquil and the lowlands.

There’s something for everyone, and the prices will not set you back much at all.

If we told you we wished we had more time in Lithuania, would you believe us? We were lucky enough to have a whirlwind tour if Lithuania’s top sights by traveling from Riga, Latvia, to Vilnius, Lithuania with Traveller Tours.

What we liked best was the mythical Trakai castle, the pastel walls of Vilnius’s Old Town, the bizarre Hill of Crosses and beautiful and medieval Kaunas.

Had we had a week to spend, we would’ve loved to see all of Lithuania’s historic and cultural sights, including more about its Jewish history, by renting a car and going around.

Check out how excited we got about Lithuania in our interview on the Voyages of Tim Vetter podcast .

Sunlight lighting up the leaves of a hanging plant on a residential street in old town Vilnius, Lithuania

What’s more is that Lithuania is the most affordable of the three Baltic countries — we stayed at a hostel on Airbnb for under $30.

Wondering how we decide where to stay? Check out our comparison of Airbnb vs Hostels vs Hotels .

Laos: Take an adventure

Laos is a diverse and often forgotten-about country bordering Thailand, China, Vietnam and Cambodia. Why go here?

Laos is interesting because it’s landlocked, and so many travelers arrive by land via China, Thailand, or Vietnam. Well, what’s there to do?

The fact that tourism is newer in Laos than it is in Thailand makes Laos a bit less discovered. And being less discovered means that it’s a great place to travel to avoid other tourists !

See Buddhist culture at its finest in Luang Prbang, where you can also explore exquisite waterfalls and nature.

See the stars and give night photography a try at night in places like Vang Vieng, and explore a city through its cafes in Vientiane.

For the adventurous, there’s the Plain of Jars (it’s weird) and Phonsavan with its temple ruins.

If you’re not afraid to get off the beaten path, while not spending a lot of your savings, try some time in Laos and you could be surprised at what this modest country has to offer its visitors.

You can stay in hostels in Laos at prices as low as $4 USD per night for a dorm bed, depending on the city or town.

Can you beat that?

We hope you got tons of ideas from this list about where to travel on a budget and save money on your summer trip this year.

Protect Your Trip »

44 cheap tropical vacations that feel expensive.

These tropical vacation spots boast affordable accommodations, incredible scenery and more.

Aerial of Entalula Island Beach Lagoon with typical Filipino Balangay boats.

(Getty Images) |

Stretch your dollars further on your next trip.

The arch of Cabo San Lucas in Mexico at sunrise.

Los Cabos, Mexico

Montego Bay, Jamaica

Phuket, Thailand

Zakynthos, Greece

A fountain in a roundabout with Hindu statues, Bali, Indonesia.

Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia

Colorful buildings and residences along pier in Curaçao.

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Colorful façade of the old colonial building in the town of Pedasi, Panama.

Pedasí, Panama

A couple sea kayaking in St. George's Caye, Belize.

Corfu, Greece

Gili Islands, Indonesia

Krabi, Thailand

Crete, Greece

Menorca, Spain

Phu Quoc, Vietnam

Sarandë, Albania

Koh Lipe, Thailand

People walking along a beach in Costa Rica.

Marmaris, Turkey

Aerial view of Gulf Shores & Orange Beach, Alabama.

Gulf Shores, Alabama

Cancún, Mexico

Langkawi, Malaysia

Kefalonia, Greece

Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic

View of the city of Patras from staircase leading from city center to the top of the castle hill.

Patras, Greece

Milos, Greece

Caribbean coral reef off the coast of Bonaire.

Ischia, Italy

Bahia, Brazil

Isla de Providencia, Colombia

Djerba, Tunisia

Catalina Island, California

Corn Islands, Nicaragua

Zanzibar, Tanzania

Ubatuba, Brazil

Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India

Costa del Sol, Spain

Cebu, Philippines

Puerto Rico

Rosario Islands, Colombia

Koh Rong, Cambodia

El Nido, Palawan, Philippines

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

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Cheap Places To Travel on $100 a Day or Less

Posted: August 22, 2023 | Last updated: August 22, 2023

A romantic couple on summer vacation enjos the sunset over the mediterranean sea by the pool

Although it's tempting to book a spontaneous trip to that Instagram-worthy locale on your bucket list, chances are you'll come back from those sought-after travel destinations with your pockets empty -- or worse, stuck in debt for the foreseeable.

Find Out: 5 Best US Locations To Travel To on a $2,000 Budget Learn: How To Save $200 on Your Grocery Bill Every Month

To help avoid such unpleasant outcomes, consider a cheaper alternative to a luxury destination. Many affordable vacation spots boast a mixture of affordable hotels, food and local transportation, along with all the sightseeing and experiences you could want out of a vacation. Here's a list of 15 hot destinations that you can visit for around $100 per day or less .

15. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Average cost per day: $60

The country of Vietnam is notoriously one of the most affordable in the world. Naturally, its largest city, Ho Chi Minh City, offers all the amenities of a bustling metropolis without breaking the bank.

Hostels run anywhere from $24 to $50 a night, or up to $20 for private rooms, with budget hotels running as low as $15. Transportation will set you back around $1 to $2 a day. As far as food, you can get all the eclectic flavors of the country served in a variety of dishes that range from $3 to $10, which is less than some fast food meals you may be used to ordering.

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14. Buenos Aires, Argentina

Average cost per day: $85

Buenos Aires is known as "the Paris of South America," and Argentina's largest city (and capital) provides a world-class experience even for the budget-minded. You'll find affordable local transportation for around $0.30 a day, with a day's worth of meals costing around $7. Hotels for two people average around $64 a night, as well.

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13. São Paulo, Brazil

Average cost per day: $33

With free concerts, plenty of running trails and food vendors, not to mention its top attraction, Ibirapuera Park, São Paulo is a great destination for the frugal spender. You can expect to spend as little as $10 per night for hotels and just under $3 on local transportation. Food is pretty easy on the budget as well, with the average cost for a day's worth of meals totaling out to around $19.

12. Bali, Indonesia

The tropical paradise of Bali is much more affordable than you might think. Visitors can stay in hostels for as little as $4 per night. If hostels aren't your thing, you can get a hotel for as little as $30 a night. As far as food, expect to pay around $15 per day for meals. Transporting yourself from place to place will cost roughly $0.60 a day.

11. Shanghai, China

Average cost per day: $78

Shanghai is an ideal city for budget travel. The cost of hostels starts at around $6 per night, with a midrange hotel costing about $85. Food will set you back about $32 a day. Meanwhile, transportation costs average out to just over $1 per day, making it one of the more affordable cities to get around in.

10. Cancun, Mexico

Average cost per day: $62

Nestled against the Caribbean Sea, Cancun is a major tourist destination in Mexico, but it doesn't have to destroy your budget. Hostels start as low as $12 a night, with budget hotels averaging around $42. Meals at inexpensive restaurants can be had as low as $11. Travel costs hover around $1.30 a day. Along with the popular beaches and nightlife, visitors can swim with dolphins or tour the Chichén Itzá, a famous Mayan archaeological site.

Explore: 5 Affordable Up-and-Coming US Locations To Buy Vacation Property in 2023

9. Johannesburg, South Africa

Average cost per day: $89

The largest city in South Africa and one of the hundred largest urban areas in the world can be surprisingly affordable depending on where you stay. Hotels in the city start as low as $13 per night and average out at around $78. You can expect to spend around $40 on food per day, and just under $4 a day for transportation.

8. Athens, Greece

Average cost per day: $102.50

Home to ancient ruins such as the Acropolis and the Parthenon, Athens is perfect for history junkies. Hotels will cost you an average of $69 per night, though hostels hover around $24. You can expect to pay around $55 per day on meals, which is higher than many other destinations on this list. Public transit will probably cost you around $2.66 a day

7. Panama City, Panama

Average cost per day: $70

Located on the Pacific entrance to the Panama Canal, it's a hub of banking and commerce -- as well as tourism. The city costs around $0.70 a day for transportation, and about $50 on meals. Plus, average hotel costs in Panama City are affordable at $70 per night, though hostels cost around $35 a night.

6. Lisbon, Portugal

Average cost per day: $121

One of two cities in Portugal to be considered 'global,' the other being Port, Lisbon is home to bustling finance, fashion, arts and education. Expect to spend an average of $64 a night for hotels and $5 a day for transportation. Meals for the day will run around $52.

5. Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

Average cost per day: $152

This major city on an island in the Persian Gulf (along with plenty of space on the UAE mainland) can often feel like a look into the near future. Expect to pay about $53 for a day's worth of meals. Local transportation will run about $1 a day, with hotels average about $98.

Read: Don't Book a Vacation on This Day of the Week

4. Prague, the Czech Republic

Average cost per day: $123

A travel hotspot for decades, Prague offers old-world charm, complete with businesses that have operated since the 16th century. You can dine at the city's restaurants for around $49 for the day. And expect to pay an average of $74 for each night at a hotel. Some of its many architectural attractions include Old Town Square, Charles Bridge and Prague Castle, the third-largest in the world

3. Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Average cost per day: $129

While the city of Dubai was largely a desert just two decades ago, it's now one of the most-traveled cities on the planet that now boasts the world's tallest building. Hotels in Dubai vary greatly in price, but if are booked in advance you can look for an average rate of $65. Daily meals will run about $61, with around $3 going towards transportation.

2. Singapore

Average cost per day: $135

A sovereign island city-state, Singapore's history goes back nearly 1,000 years. To soak up this unique history for yourself, you'll be spending an average of $111 per night on hotels in Singapore -- one of the more expensive lodging costs on this list. Of course, hostels average closer to $40 if that's more your speed. Meals will total about $56 each day, with transportation making up another $4 or so.

1. Madrid, Spain

Average cost per day: $115

As the capital of flamenco, Madrid offers exciting song and dance performances, along with a very active nightlife. As far as feeding yourself in Madrid, it will run around $52 per day. Transportation costs about $4 a day, while the average hotel runs about $89 per night. Hostels as usual are the more affordable option, starting at $28 a night.

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A Quick Budget-Friendly Guide To Kenya

If you want to experience a diversity of environments, visiting Kenya should be on your bucket list . What's more, this East African nation is also a very affordable destination for Indian travellers. Kenya, although termed a "developing nation," has witnessed considerable economic growth over the past decade, with the government investing in tourism and infrastructure. This growth has led to increased competition among businesses in the tourism sector, driving prices down to attract more visitors. According to a report by a New Delhi-based media conglomerate, the influx of Indian tourists to Kenya increased by 14 per cent in 2023 compared to 2022. Visiting Kenya will give you a chance to take advantage of its many offerings without trying to save too much.

Top Attractions

At the heart of Kenya's allure lies its breathtaking wildlife, showcased in iconic national parks and reserves such as the Masai Mara National Reserve in southwestern Kenya along the Tanzanian border, Amboseli National Park in southern Kenya, and Tsavo National Park in the Taita-Taveta County. The snowy Mount Kenya, Africa's second-highest peak, offers great trekking opportunities amid stunning alpine scenery. You can also take a tea tour with lunch at the Kiambethu Farm in Limuru in Nairobi under INR 2,800 or enjoy the beautiful beaches in the coastal town of Watamu north of Mombasa.

Indians need to apply online (etakenya.go.ke) for an electronic travel authorisation before travelling to Kenya. The cost of the eTA is INR 2,900 and is processed within seven business days.

The designated currency in Kenya is the shilling. As per the present exchange rates, INR 1 equals KES 1.62. You can get your Indian currency exchanged at airport kiosks and other local exchange places. Travel during shoulder season and compare flight fares and stays via multiple sources.

Flying is the fastest and most popular way to reach Kenya. The primary entry point, Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) in Nairobi, serves flights from various global destinations. Alternatively, travellers can opt for Moi International Airport (MBA) in Mombasa. Non-stop flights to Nairobi from Delhi start at INR 34,369 for a round trip.

Accommodation

If you are visiting Masai Mara, the lodges on the park's outskirts are much more affordable than options inside the park. Budget accommodations in Nairobi start from INR 2,253 depending on the season. Mid-range hotels or homestays (from INR 5,000) and luxury hotels (from INR 14,200) are also options. Private budget safaris start from around INR 17,500, and go up to as high as you can afford.

Local Travel

If you want to travel in Kenya the local way, take advantage of their well-connected bus services. These long-haul buses connect most cities, including like Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu and are cheap, costing approximately INR 2,080. There are many private operators nationwide so it's best to ask for the most recommended ones. If you are travelling to Mombasa from Nairobi and have time, the Madaraka Express is a non-stop night train. Tickets can be bought online on krc.co.ke. To get around in a city, you can easily take a taxi or a matatu (minivan) at reasonable rates.

While on your Kenya vacation, enjoy local delicacies such as irio (potatoes and vegetable mash), nyama choma (grilled meat), ugali (a starchy, spongy side dish), kuku paka (chicken curry) and the popular Kenyan snack, mutura (stuffed intestines). Don't forget to try mandezi, a popular sweet fritter, which is often eaten with coconut milk. The cost of eating out at popular restaurants like The Carnivore Restaurant and Mawimbi Seafood Restaurant & Café is approximately INR 2,000 per person.

You can shop to your heart's content at one of the many flea markets in Nairobi. Various malls, such as The Junction and Galleria Shopping Mall Market, host flea markets throughout the week. At these markets you can buy affordable clothes and other souvenirs to take home.

Best Time To Visit

If you are visiting Kenya to enjoy a safari, anytime between June and October is ideal. If you want to witness the famous migration of the wildebeest across the Masai Mara, travelling in early September is recommended. May is ideal for some great wildlife photography.

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Budget Travel

15 Most Affordable Places to Travel in the U.S. in August

We've gathered some of the most affordable places to travel this August so you can plan your next summer vacation.

Sean Pavone/Getty Images

While August is one of the most popular travel months, that doesn’t necessarily mean your trip has to cost a small fortune — especially if you know where to go.

To determine the most affordable places to travel in August, we tapped the pros at Kayak to pull flight and hotel data between Aug. 1 and Aug. 31, 2024. The prices listed for each destination below include a combined average for round-trip economy airfare and rate for one overnight stay in a standard double hotel room. “Among the cheapest destinations to fly this August are southern hotspots with major airports like Orlando, New Orleans, and Miami,” says Cara Johnson, Kayak’s consumer travel trends expert. “While these southern destinations come with a lower price tag (and warmer temps!), if you want something on the cooler side, try Denver or San Francisco.”

Additionally, it’s worth noting that all but one of these destinations are located in the mainland United States, making for an easy long weekend escape . So, whether you’re craving a serene beach retreat or an action-packed city adventure, the below destinations offer something for every type of traveler — and, best of all, they won’t break the bank.

Here are 15 of the most affordable places to travel in the U.S. this August.

Orlando, Florida

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Average cost (including round-trip flights and a one-night hotel stay): $519

A trip to Orlando is always a good idea — especially in August. While the weather’s hot (tip: be sure to pack plenty of SPF and lightweight clothes), you’ll be rewarded with fewer crowds. And while the city is best known for its theme parks — looking at you, Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando — budget-conscious travelers may choose to take advantage of Orlando’s many free activities and attractions , including the UCF Arboretum , the Dr. P. Phillips Community Park, and live performances and movie screenings at Lake Eola Park. We’d also be remiss not to mention the city’s burgeoning food and drink scene: There are nearly a dozen Orlando restaurants that have earned the coveted Bib Gourmand designation from Michelin — which highlights top-notch cuisine at excellent value — including Sushi Saint , Otto’s High Dive , and Zaru .

Where to stay: There are countless accommodation options in the Orlando area — check out the Disney and Universal websites to find special seasonal offers to save money. Disney's Pop Century Resort and Universal's Cabana Bay Beach Resort offer great value for people planning to spend time at the theme parks.

New Orleans, Louisiana

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Average cost: $520

New Orleans is famous for its Creole culture and cuisine, vibrant music scene, and abundant festivals — making it nearly impossible to be bored. Throughout the month of August, NOLA offers a handful of free and fun-filled events, including Satchmo SummerFest at the New Orleans Jazz Museum , NOLA Pickle Fest , and Red Dress Run . Travelers can also beat the scorching heat at one of the city’s many museums, including the New Orleans Museum of Art , The National World War II Museum, The Sazerac House, and the Mardi Gras Museum of Costumes & Culture . Finally, cool off with a refreshing daiquiri at the Big Easy Daiquiri or New Orleans Original Daquiri .

Where to stay: The upscale Omni Royal Orleans hotel is within easy walking distance of top sites like Jackson Square, the New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum , and the iconic Cafe Du Monde . The property’s rooftop pool, which offers sweeping city views, is the ideal place to cool off in style. Plus, guests can snag up to 20 percent off summer stays of three nights or longer.

Miami, Florida

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Average cost: $538

With its beautiful beaches, buzzy nightlife, incredible architecture, and captivating arts and culture scene, Miami offers something special for every type of traveler. Best of all, you don’t need to break the bank to have a good time. Many beaches, including the world-famous South Beach, are free, as are parks like the waterfront Lummus Park and Flamingo Park, which offers a swimming pool, playground, and baseball field. Alternatively, take a self-guided tour of the city’s Art Deco Historic District or the eclectic Wynwood neighborhood, which boasts colorful street art, graffiti, and murals at nearly every turn. August also marks the return of Miami Spice Restaurant Month , in which patrons can enjoy three-course meals at some of the city’s top restaurants from $30-$35 for lunch and $45-$60 for dinner.

Where to stay: August is a great time to score a deal on a Miami hotel, so we've rounded up the best hotels in Miami Beach , from five-star resorts to charming boutique properties, so you can find your ideal home base.

Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Average cost: $540

You may equate Fort Lauderdale with spring breakers, but the truth is this bustling South Florida city by the sea — just 30 miles from Miami or 40 minutes by car — is a great summer vacation destination for beach lovers. Moreover, with nearly 25 miles of golden-sand shores, travelers will have plenty of room to roam along the ocean. Beyond the beach, travelers can stroll along the shop- and restaurant-lined Las Olas Boulevard , wander along the scenic Fort Lauderdale Riverwalk , and pop into one of the many museums, including the Bonnet House Museum & Gardens and the Museum of Discovery and Science . Foodies, meanwhile, can take advantage of Dine Out Lauderdale 2024 . Kicking off Aug. 1, the culinary event features multi-course meals at some of the city’s best restaurants at can’t-miss prices.

Where to stay: You can’t go wrong with a stay at the chic Kimpton Shorebreak Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort . The property is just one block from the beach and offers complimentary beach chairs plus two on-site swimming pools. Value-packed amenities abound, including a nightly wine and cheese hour, morning coffee and tea, daily beach yoga, bike rentals, and the use of boogie boards. Bonus: Pets stay for free (read: no hidden fees).

Denver, Colorado

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Average cost: $553

Denver is teeming with things to see, do, and explore, from scenic hiking to brewery hopping and beyond. Speaking of the former, top spots include Mount Galbraith Park, Bluffs Regional Park Trail, and Chavez and Beaver Brook Trail Loop, all within a half-hour drive of downtown. Post-hike, grab an ice-cold beer at one or more of the breweries on the Denver Beer Trail , including Great Divide Brewing Co . and Jagged Mountain Craft Brewery . The city’s River North Art (RiNo) District is teeming with art galleries, concert venues, and eclectic eats, and you can easily spend an entire afternoon exploring the neighborhood. Additionally, no summer trip to Denver is complete without catching a concert at Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre or watching the Rockies play at Coors Field . Pro tip: Purchase a Denver CityPASS to save up to 43 percent on attractions like the Downtown Aquarium , Denver Art Museum , Denver Botanic Gardens , and more.

Where to stay: Art lovers will feel right at home at the Acoma House . Situated just south of downtown in Denver’s Golden Triangle District, this property offers 24 custom rooms, each distinctively designed in collaboration with a local artist. Amenities include 24-hour check-in, bike rentals, and kitchenettes.

Washington, D.C.

Victoria Chamberlain/Travel + Leisure

Average cost: $565

Those craving a history-filled summer getaway won’t want to sleep on our nation’s capital . Here, you’ll find an abundance of complimentary attractions and sites, including the National Mall , the Smithsonian museums , the National Arboretum , the National Archives Building , the National Gallery of Art , and, last but not least, the largest library in the world, the Library of Congress . Free Tours By Foot offers — you guessed it — free walking tours, too. Be sure to also carve out enough time to stroll through picturesque Georgetown , known for its charming cobblestone streets plus dozens of shops and restaurants. Located along the Potomac River, The Wharf is among DC’s hippest haunts, with ample shops, restaurants, entertainment venues, special events, and activities like boating and bike rentals. Also, it’s worth mentioning that the Metro (D.C.'s subway system) makes it easy to get around the city, and it’s much more affordable than taxis or rideshares.

Where to stay: The trendy Yours Truly D.C . is about halfway between Foggy Bottom and Dupont Circle. The design-forward hotel also offers a buzzy on-site restaurant, barber, and record shop — along with prime people-watching opportunities.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

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Average cost: $586

This summer vacation destination — considered one of the country’s most affordable beach towns — is especially popular amongst fun- and sun-seeking families. Myrtle Beach and its surrounding towns boast a whopping 60 miles of wide, sandy beaches, all of which are free to the public. Should you need a break from the beach, consider exploring the tranquil Brookgreen Gardens or the fascinating Ripley’s Aquarium ; otherwise, check out one of the city’s museums or mini golf courses . Visitors can also catch one of several free performances , ranging from magic shows and comedy shows to concerts. Broadway at The Beach , one of Myrtle Beach’s best shopping, dining, and entertainment complexes, also offers weekly fireworks shows. Last but not least, it’s worth carving out a few hours to stroll the 1.2-mile-long boardwalk, where you’ll find shops, restaurants, and the nearly 200-foot-tall SkyWheel .

Where to stay: Several chain hotel outposts including Marriott Myrtle Beach Resort and Spa at Grand Dunes and Hampton Inn and Suites Myrtle Beach/Oceanfront offer brand loyalists the opportunity to cash points in for stays to save even more money.

Atlanta, Georgia

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Average cost: $614

Craving an urban escape? Look no further than Atlanta . Visit this bustling southern city in August to enjoy minimal crowds — you’ll almost feel as if you have the entire city to yourself — coupled with discounted hotel rates and less traffic. Retreat to nature by biking all or part of the 22-mile-long BeltLine trail system , which is dotted with plant and art installations, including murals and sculptures, or the 30-acre Atlanta Botanical Garden . The city is also home to one of the country’s largest aquariums, the Georgia Aquarium , which is sure to impress kids and adults alike with over 120,000 animals spanning 200-plus species. Meanwhile, history buffs can visit the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park and the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum . When hunger calls, make a beeline towards Ponce City Market , which is home to an expansive food hall — plus a bustling bar and ample shops. Finally, art lovers need not miss the annual Piedmont Park Arts Festival , a two-day outdoor event taking place Aug. 17-18 that will feature 200-plus painters, photographers, glass blowers, crafters, and more; highlights include artist demos, live music, and a children’s play area.

Where to stay: The Starling in Midtown is less than a 10-minute walk to Piedmont Park. In between sightseeing, guests can cool off on the breezy terrace, which boasts a sparkling swimming pool plus plush cabanas.

Las Vegas, Nevada

Average cost: $621

While you may equate Las Vegas with glitz, glamour, and high-rollers, keep in mind that Sin City can easily be explored on a budget. Travelers can take their pick of free things to do in Vegas , including the water show and botanical gardens at The Bellagio, circus acts at Circus Circus, the wildlife habitat at The Flamingo Hotel, live music at The Fremont Street Experience , the Wynn Lake of Dreams show, and the volcano eruption at The Mirage . Also, score great deals on some of the city’s best eats by taking advantage of happy hour specials. For example, Brera Osteria at The Venetian Resort has half off pizza, cocktails, and wines by the glass every day between 3:00-5:00 p.m., while Jaleo at The Cosmopolitan hosts daily sangria hour from 5:00-7:00 p.m. with $7 sangria and beers, $9 wines, $12 cocktails, and appetizers as low as $4.

Where to stay: Marriott's Grand Chateau is one of (very) few Las Vegas properties without a resort fee. And while it’s not directly on The Strip, it’s less than a mile away.

San Francisco, California

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San Francisco is famous for its vibrant cultural scene, incredible architecture, and top-notch dining, which means the Golden City truly offers something for everyone. And while the city boasts 20 distinct neighborhoods, Chinatown, The Mission, The Castro, Haight-Ashbury, and Fisherman’s Wharf tend to be the most popular among tourists. It goes without saying, but top sites like Golden Gate Park (home to the majestic five-acre Japanese Tea Garden ), The Painted Ladies (a collection of colorful Victorian and Edwardian-style homes), Alcatraz (a tiny island off the mainland that was once a prison), and The Presidio (a former army post turned national park site) are all must-visits. Music lovers should plan their August trip here around Outside Lands (Aug. 9-11), one of the most exciting music festivals in the entire country.

Where to stay: For a stylish and sophisticated stay near top sites like Union Square, look no further than The Marker . The boutique haunt is housed in a striking Beaux Arts-style building and offers a buzzy on-site restaurant and colorful rooms and suites.

Chicago, Illinois

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Average cost: $628

Come August, Chicago wins travelers over with its warm, sunny weather and ample outdoor events, including the Lollapalooza music festival (Aug. 1-4), the Chicago Air & Water Show (Aug. 10 and 11), the Great American Lobster Fest (Aug. 19 and 20), the Glenwood Avenue Arts Fest (Aug. 16-18), and the Sangria Festival (Aug. 17 and 18). Other highlights include free open-air dance lessons as part of Chicago Summerdance , live jazz courtesy of Jazzin’ at the Shedd , and movie screenings under the stars brought to you by the Millennium Park Summer Film Series . Make your way down the restaurant-lined Riverwalk or Navy Pier , dotted with rides, games, restaurants, and more, before heading out on the water via a boat tour. Also, it wouldn’t be a trip to Chicago without a visit to the (free) Lincoln Park Zoo , the Art Institute , Cloud Gate (known as “The Bean”), or the Chicago Architecture Center .

Where to stay: Located along the Magnificent Mile, the aptly named Aloft Chicago Mag Mile makes a great, affordable home base for exploring. Plus, it’s less than a mile from Navy Pier, the Riverwalk, and Cloud Gate.

Nashville, Tennessee

Average cost: $646

Nashville is world-renowned for its music scene, hence its nickname, Music City. Catch a live performance at the Grand Ole Opry (which also offers tours) or the Ryman Auditorium, explore the Historic RCA Studio B recording studios, and visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum . Come nighttime, head to Robert’s Western World or the Bluebird Cafe to rock out with a drink in hand. For even more fun, bar-hop along Broadway, making stops at the many bars and honky-tonks. Should you need a break from the hustle and bustle, head straight to the 132-acre Centennial Park, where you’ll find a one-mile walking trail, a lake, a sunken garden, and the Parthenon , a replica of the original in Athens. Finally, no trip to Nashville is complete without some hot chicken: Get your fix at beloved haunts like Prince’s , Bolton’s , and Puckett’s .

Where to stay : The new Tempo by Hilton Nashville Downtown offers sleek rooms, a rooftop pool, and a convenient location close to Broadway.

New York, New York

Average cost: $674

While many New Yorkers ditch the city in favor of nearby beach towns in The Hamptons , out-of-towners can soak up the sun and the warm weather from one of the Big Apple’s many parks, including Central Park , where picnicking and people-watching opportunities abound. Bryant Park offers free movie nights , yoga , and live performances. And while Manhattan is wonderful, it’s worth exploring the city’s other four boroughs. Head to Queens to catch a Mets game or explore Flushing’s Chinatown, visit Brooklyn to hit the beach and the amusement park rides at Coney Island, check out the Bronx to eat your way through Little Italy or watch the Yankees in action, and take the ferry over to Staten Island and admire lush flora in the Snug Island Culture Center and Botanical Garden .

Where to stay : We've rounded up 10 of the best affordable hotels in New York City so you can find a perfect spot that won't break the bank, like the Cambria Hotel New York — Chelsea.

San Juan, Puerto Rico

Average cost: $680

The Puerto Rican capital of San Juan was previously deemed the most affordable beach vacation destination for U.S. travelers . And while the stretches of sand and crystal-clear waters here are stunning, it’s the city itself that truly stands out. In Old San Juan, travelers can visit historic sites like Castillo San Felipe del Morro and Castillo San Cristobal ; stroll along quaint cobblestone streets lined with colorful buildings; and sip cocktails at some of the Caribbean’s best bars (looking at you, La Factoría ). Additionally, the Condado neighborhood is especially popular among tourists thanks to its prime oceanfront locale and abundance of hotels and restaurants, as is Isla Verde.

Where to stay: Guests at La Concha Renaissance San Juan Resort enjoy resort-style amenities like three outdoor pools, a casino, a pristine beach area, and eight bars and restaurants, including a swanky Italian eatery and a beach bar and grill. The stylish rooms and suites have a beachy-chic aesthetic and many feature ocean views.

Los Angeles, California

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Average cost: $686

This sprawling SoCal city is teeming with historic attractions, beautiful beaches, scenic hiking, swanky restaurants, and some seriously incredible shopping, which means there’s something for everyone here. And you don’t have to spend a ton of money to have a good time: Trek to the world-famous Hollywood Sign, admire the sweeping city views from the Griffith Observatory, window-shop along Rodeo Drive, and check out the Hollywood Walk of Fame. You’ll also want a few hours to explore the laid-back Venice neighborhood, where you can hit the beach, stroll along the canals, go surfing, and explore Abbot Kinney Boulevard, which is dotted with bars (don’t miss The Brig , which dates back to 1952), galleries (Yiwei Gallery, which spotlights emerging Asian artists, is a favorite), and restaurants, including the oh-so-trendy Gjelina .

Where to stay: The Hoxton Downtown LA is one of several great affordable hotels in Los Angeles ; the city is also a great place to splurge with credit card or hotel loyalty points.

7 of the best places to visit in Southeast Asia

Jul 10, 2024 • 6 min read

Start planning your route through Southeast Asia with our guide to the best places to visit Pakin Songmor / Getty Images

Traveling through Southeast Asia is a rite of passage for many backpackers on a budget, but this stunning region also appeals to adventurers and nature lovers too, with people coming back year on year. Whether you are learning how to drive a motorbike or heading out in scuba gear to dive with reef sharks, Southeast Asia offers fantastic experiences at a fraction of the price found elsewhere.

Leading with curiosity and patience will serve travelers well as they navigate their way through the region. There are many highlights, but the spots that you stumble upon are likely to be the ones you remember most fondly. To help you plan your route, and find your own favorite places, here are our picks of where to visit in Southeast Asia and what makes them so special.

A large multi-level wooden structure and walkway our to sea near a surf spot

1. Siargao, Philippines

Best for surfing

Siargao is a tropical paradise known for its quality surfing, which includes the Cloud 9 break, regarded as one of the best waves in the world. Surfers can take a boat out to Rock Island or Daku, or ride the left reef break at Stimpy’s. Not quite ready for that yet? Surf lessons are available for all levels, then make time to see the island beyond the waves.

Enjoy live music performances at local bars and cafes, such as the Extension or Strum , ride a motorbike out to the North to visit caves, or go to a yoga class and take an ice bath. Whatever you decide, expect to be welcomed warmly into the local community.

Planning tip: Base yourself in General Luna. By staying at least a week on Siargao, you'll be able to experience the best of the island and explore beyond the main town.

2. Amed, Bali

Best for diving and snorkeling sites

Amed — a coastal area located in northeast — has maintained the local charm and warm welcome that initially made the island of Bali so popular. Snorkelers and divers in particular love it here because it's home to iconic dive sites like the Japanese Shipwreck – shallow enough to snorkel – and Jemeluk Bay, packed with colorful coral. From here, take a trip to Bali’s famous Gates of Heaven, Pura Lempuyan , to see one of the holiest temple complexes on the island. Sunsets here are stunning: go to Lahangan Sweet viewpoint or Sunset Point for views over Mt Agung , Bali’s highest peak.

Planning tip: From Canggu , it takes about four hours to get to Amed by taxi. However, if you come from Lombok or the Gili Islands, the ferry is less than two hours depending on the season.

A many tiered waterfall with a bamboo raft full of tourists in the pool

3. Cao Bang, Vietnam

Best for getting off the beaten track

Cao Bang, in the north of Vietnam , has some of the most impressive natural sites in the country, but without the crowds. Start at Phat Tich Truc Lam , a temple near the Chinese border, that offers wonderful views over the region’s rolling hills. Ban Gioc Waterfall – one of the most magical waterfalls in Southeast Asia and the largest in Vietnam – cascades over multiple tiers and can be visited on a boat trip or bamboo raft. The nearby Nguom Ngao Cave system extends for several kilometers underground, and is home to many breathtaking stalactites and stalagmites.

Planning tip: This is a place to get a glimpse of true rural Vietnamese culture, so be prepared to taste dishes you've never heard of and expect to rely on Google Translate to help you with communicating. Even though it is far off the typical backpacker route (for now), Cao Bang is very safe and has great infrastructure for visitors. It takes about six hours from Hanoi by car.

4. Khao Sok National Park, Thailand

Best for animal lovers

Khao Sok is a stunning national park that is home to hundreds of animal species including bears, monkeys, leopards and wild elephants. If you're lucky, you can see them wandering around on a safari or boat trip. Located just a few hours north of Krabi , Khao Sok National Park also boasts ATV tours, cave trekking, and Elephant Hills , a sanctuary where rescued elephants are allowed to roam freely in the nature park.

Chiaw Lan Lake ’s limestone cliffs and dense rainforest will make you feel like you've been transported to another planet. For the ultimate experience, book a night on the lake in a floating bungalow where you can soak in the park's natural beauty from late-night stargazing to a sunrise safari.

A row of monks in orange robes pass in front of a temple collecting money off people

5. Luang Prabang, Laos

Best for Buddhist culture

The former royal capital of Laos , Luang Prabang , is nestled in a valley in the north. It remains an important site for Buddhist culture with its wonderfully preserved temples (wats) and other spiritual sites.

Those who visit are encouraged to participate in almsgiving, a centuries-old daily ceremony where monks collect alms from locals and visitors. Wat Xieng Thong is one of the most spiritually significant temples in Laos. It was built in 1560 for coronations, and is home to large mosaics and an elaborate library. Another important site is Phu Si , which translates to “sacred mountain” and is dotted with temples and shrines.

Luang Prabang is also close to one of Southeast Asia’s dreamiest waterfalls, Tat Kuang Si , made up of three tiers that cascade into natural pools of mineral-rich water colored milky white by limestone.

Planning tip: For those looking to delve even deeper into Laos’s natural beauty, Luang Prabang is a great jumping point to Nong Khiaw , a village known for its limestone cliffs and outdoor activities.

A man stands by a rickshaw outside a temple with Chinese-style red lanterns

6. Penang, Malaysia

Best for history and culture

Penang , Malaysia is a vibrant mosaic of Malay, Chinese and Indian cultures, all of which are reflected in its food, architecture and traditions.

The capital of this tropical island, George Town , manages to transform its heritage into something that can accommodate tourists all while tastefully maintaining its authenticity. In just one city, you can tour through Chinese clan houses, mosques, Hindu temples, and British Colonial buildings.

Outside of George Town, Penang National Park is home to beautiful beaches and hiking trails through the jungle. Learn more about local fauna at the Tropical Spice Garden packed with spices, medicinal plants and deadly natural poisons – guided tours are available.

Planning tip: As a general rule, it's wise for female travelers to cover their shoulders, chest and knees. While most sites do not require you to cover your head, you may want to bring a head scarf or sarong to enter certain religious or government buildings.

7. Gili Air, Indonesia

Best for relaxation

The Gili Islands — located between Bali and Lombok — consists of three small islets : Gili Trawangan , Gili Meno , and Gili Air . Each island offers its own, unique atmosphere, but for someone looking for peace, relaxation and serenity, they will want to linger on Gili Air with its strong focus on wellness. Motorbikes and cars are not allowed on the island, so visitors can lay back and truly relax on the white sandy beaches, with yoga classes and affordable spa treatments and massages.

One of the top attractions among the Gili Islands are the underwater sculptures, Nest , by artist Jason deCaires Taylor. This site is best enjoyed in the early morning before the crowds arrive, so be sure to book the earliest boat trip possible. There are also opportunities to scuba dive with the area’s many turtles.

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The 12 Best Places To Go In August 2024

All products and services featured are independently selected by forbes vetted contributors and editors. when you make a purchase through links on this page, we may earn a commission. learn more, latifah al-hazza , contributor, forbes vetted.

T he best places to go in August allow you to enjoy a relaxing summer getaway without the swarming crowds. Throughout the month, weather is warm and there’s plenty of sunshine to be had, making it a pleasant time to hit the road. But traveling during August also requires strategy: You’ll want to avoid long lines and hard-to-get reservations.

If you’re looking for a sandy island getaway, Bonaire and Aruba avoid the hurricane seasons and maintain good weather throughout the month. August is also a perfect month to travel to lesser-known European destinations such as Milos and Bodrum, where getting lost wandering through charming beach towns is a must. Below, the best places to go in August 2024.

Where To Stay In The Best Places To Go In August:

Chicago: The LaSalle Chicago, Autograph Collection ; 21c Museum Hotel ; Hip Launching Pad Airbnb
Virginia Beach: The Historic Cavalier Hotel and Beach Club ; Marriott Virginia Beach Oceanfront Resort ; The Pink House
Aspen: Limelight Hotel Aspen ; Mollie Aspen : Modern Riverfront Condo
Washington, D.C.: The Morrow ; Lyle Washington DC ; Luxury Escape AirBnB
Sicily: Hotel Principe di Salina ; Médousa Bistrot & Suites ; Terre e Mare AirBnB
Aruba: Aruba Ocean Villas ; Boardwalk Boutique Hotel ; Shoco Cabin AirBnB
Belize: Cayo Espanto ; Gaïa Riverlodge ; Modern Luxury Cabin
Bonaire: Delfins Beach Resort Bonaire ; Buddy Dive Resort ; Little Gem AirBnB
Milos: Domes White Coast Milos ; White Pebble Suites ; Villa Eva
Geneva: La Réserve Genève Hotel and Spa ; Hôtel Longemalle Genève ; Loft Airbnb
Galápagos Islands: Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel ; Ecoventura ; Ocean View Airbnb
Bodrum: Scorpios Bodrum ; Birdcage 33 Hotel ; Gorilla Suite Airbnb

Chicago skyline aerial drone view from above, lake Michigan and city of Chicago downtown skyscrapers cityscape, Illinois, USA

Chicago, Illinois

Who Will Love It: Travelers looking for a mix of big city activities and outdoor recreation

All-Star Attractions: Lollapalooza; Cubs and White Sox Games; Chicago Air and Water Show

What Not To Miss: Listening to jazz on the patio at Jazzin’ at the Shedd Aquarium; catching a movie at Rooftop Cinema Club Fulton Market

Where To Stay: The LaSalle Chicago, Autograph Collection ; 21c Museum Hotel ; Hip Launching Pad Airbnb

There’s no better time to visit Chicago than in the summer. While this Midwestern city may be landlocked, nearby Lake Michigan and the Chicago River remain huge draws for visitors. Locals and tourists alike spend the summer months boating and partying in “The Playpen,” Chicago’s floating day party, or kayaking along the river. August is a particularly great time to visit, as the city’s largest music festival, Lollapalooza, is held at Grant Park. Sports fans can also catch Cubs and White Sox baseball games all summer long at Wrigley Field and Guaranteed Rate Field.

Where To Stay:

The LaSalle Chicago, Autography Collection : This upscale boutique hotel is in the heart of downtown Chicago and embodies early 1900s architecture. It’s located a few blocks from the Willis Tower and a 15-minute walk to Millennium Park.

21c Museum Hotel : Chicago’s 21c offers guests museum-quality artwork exhibitions throughout the year. Guests can peruse the work of world-renowned artists, take a free tour of the exhibitions, or take a stroll to the Riverwalk, just ten minutes away.

Hip Launching Pad Airbnb : This well-located three-bedroom apartment on the first floor of a two-unit building in West Town is within walking distance of Ukrainian Village, the Brewery District and many art galleries, cafes, and restaurants.

Virginia Beach

Aerial view of the Virginia Beach oceanfront and hotels looking south

Virginia Beach, Virginia

Who Will Love It: Travelers looking for an East Coast beach town getaway

All-Star Attractions: Atlantic Coast Kite Festival; East Coast Surfing Championships; Live! on Atlantic Summer Concerts

What Not To Miss: Trying an orange crush drink at Waterman's Surfside Grille; pottery classes at Jars of Dust; attending the Water Lantern Festival

Where To Stay: The Historic Cavalier Hotel and Beach Club ; Marriott Virginia Beach Oceanfront Resort ; The Pink House

East Coasters should look to Virginia Beach this August, when weather is warm and sunny, but not too hot. The Virginia Beach oceanfront has an expansive boardwalk that allows for bike riding, walking, roller blading and running all summer long. In particular, August offers a slate of fun festivals, such as the Atlantic Coast Kite Festival and the weeklong East Coast Surfing Championships, where some of the best surfers from around the world gather to compete. Live! On Atlantic offers nightly entertainment, the Oceanfront Concert Series happens every Wednesday and the city’s outdoor Beach Blanket Cinema takes place every Thursday.

The Historic Cavalier and Beach Club : Virginia Beach’s most historic hotel is also its most luxurious property. Here, guests can indulge at the city’s best spa, as well as enjoy three restaurants, a distillery and an indoor pool. Guests also have access to the resort’s exclusive beach club that features a clubhouse, an outdoor pool and beach access.

Marriott Virginia Beach Oceanfront Resort : This hotel is located right on the beach and offers rooms with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. One of the hotel’s notable features, as well as a favorite among locals and tourists, is its rooftop bar and restaurant, Orion’s Roof.

The Pink House : This chic rental property is quite literally pretty in pink. It has three bedrooms and comes equipped with high-end appliances, an outdoor saltwater pool and, of course, a pink golf cart for use during your stay.

Sunrise hits snow dusted peaks of Maroon Bells while being reflected in lake below, along with Aspen trees in their full fall foliage display of golden colors.

Aspen, Colorado

Who Will Love It: Travelers in search of outdoor adventure

All-Star Attractions: The Aspen Music Festival and School; Aspen Mountain Yoga

What Not To Miss: A visit to the Aspen Art Museum

Where To Stay: Limelight Hotel Aspen ; Mollie Aspen : Modern Riverfront Condo

Aspen may be best known as the winter playground of choice for A-listers and jet setters alike, but this town also happens to be a very underrated summer destination. For culture lovers, the Aspen Music Festival and School offers daily classes, performances and seminars, and the town offers plenty of outdoor recreation. Whether you’re getting your zen on at Aspen Mountain Yoga or hiking the trails of Roaring Fork Valley, the weather here in August is superb. Aspen is also home to rejuvenating spas, world-class boutiques and outdoor movies, not to mention foodie hot spots like Matsuhisa, French Alpine Bistro and the patio at Ajak Tavern.

Limelight Hotel Aspen : Located in the heart of Aspen’s downtown, Limelight Hotel is a great combination of casual and chic. The hotel offers live music in its lounge along with museum-quality artwork throughout the property. QR codes are placed next to the art pieces for visitors interested in learning more.

Mollie Aspen : New to the Aspen scene, this stylish boutique hotel offers a calming retreat with Japanese and Scandinavian design elements. Rooms have views of either Aspen Mountain or Main Street.

Modern Riverfront Condo : This condo is situated along Roaring Fork, minutes away from downtown and the gondola, with spectacular views of the river. It comes complete with a fireplace, kitchen and riverfront deck.

Washington, D.C.

Washington DC, USA at the Jefferson Memorial and Tidal Basin during spring season.

Who Will Love It: Travelers looking for a city escape with both indoor and outdoor activities

All-Star Attractions: Summer Restaurant Week; Washington Nationals games

What Not To Miss: The International Spy Museum; a walk along District Wharf

Where To Stay: The Morrow ; Lyle Washington DC ; Luxury Escape Airbnb

America’s capital is jam-packed with both indoor and outdoor activities during August. History buffs can spend time at the National Mall, home to numerous historical monuments, while sports fans can catch a ball game at Nationals Park. With so many excellent museums, travelers looking for an air-conditioned reprieve will have plenty to discover at any of the Smithsonians, including the National Portrait Gallery. It’s also a great time to visit for foodies, who will be able to sample a variety of highly-rated restaurant menus at decent prices during the city’s restaurant week, which takes place in August.

The Morrow : Located in the city’s NoMa district, a few minutes from Union Market, The Morrow is themed around the train tracks it overlooks. The rooftop lounge, which offers epic views of the Capitol, is not to be missed.

Lyle Washington DC : Housed in what was once an Art Deco apartment, Lyle, located in Dupont Circle, feels more like a charming condo than a hotel. Its spacious rooms are light and airy, while the service here is warm and approachable.

Luxury Escape Airbnb : This dreamy one-bedroom apartment is located on the third floor of a 123-year-old Victorian home and has a private rooftop deck with a pergola. The rental also has a gas fireplace, solar powered black-out blinds and a washer and dryer.

Beautiful old harbor with wooden fishing boat in Cefalu, Sicily, Italy.

Sicily, Italy

Who Will Love It: Travelers in search of history and quaint villages

All-Star Attractions: The town of Taormina, where White Lotus season 2 was filmed; island hopping the Aeolian Islands

What Not To Miss: International Festival of the Arts; Festa del Santo Salvatore; Ferragosto

Where To Stay: Hotel Principe di Salina ; Médousa Bistrot & Suites ; Terre e Mare AirBnB

The island of Sicily has plenty to offer in the summer, with charming cobblestoned towns, hidden villages, beautiful coastal enclaves and historic sites. The weather in August is particularly excellent for a beach vacation. Lots of festivals are to be found here during August, like the International Festival of the Arts in Taormina, Festa del Santo Salvatore in Cefalù and Ferragosto, which takes place across all of Sicily and consists of a yacht regatta and a longboat race. The Aeolian Islands, a volcanic archipelago in Sicily, are also worth a visit, offering outdoor adventures and remarkable views from every corner.

Hotel Principe di Salina : Located on the Aeolian Island of Salina, a short ferry ride from Sicily, this all-white hotel offers rooms with terraces that have stunning views of the Aeolian Sea. Cooking classes and boat trips are also available.

Médousa Bistrot & Suites : Situated on a hill in Taormina, this family-owned hotel was once a convent. Its lower floors were renovated to reflect a Sicilian villa; the family still resides on-site.

Terre e Mare Airbnb : This home on the island of Lipari overlooks the sea and has plentiful outdoor spaces nestled between lush vegetation. The entire place is eco-friendly with purified water, vegetable foam mattresses, recycled plastics and glass and photovoltaic panels to charge cars and bikes.

Aruba beach with pink flamingos at the beach, flamingo at the beach in Aruba Island Caribbean. A colorful flamingo at beachfront

Who Will Love It: Travelers craving the Caribbean Sea

All-Star Attractions: The Butterfly Farm; Natural Bridge Aruba

What Not To Miss: A kayak and snorkel tour with Aruba Outdoor Adventures; First Class Aruba airport fast-track service

Where To Stay: Aruba Ocean Villas ; Boardwalk Boutique Hotel ; Shoco Cabin Airbnb

Aruba rarely experiences the effects of hurricanes, making it a lovely destination to visit in August. The Caribbean island offers thrilling outdoor experiences, such as ATV tours in Arikok National Park, horseback riding, hiking and some of the best underwater life for snorkelers and divers. The island is also home to some amazing restaurants, such as Flying Fishbone, where tables are placed in the water, over-water dining at Pinchos Bar & Grill and Fred Royal’s three-and-a-half-hour intimate dinner experience. In August, the streets turn into a vibrant scene at the weekly Island Fest, while August 14 marks the Caribbean’s largest vow renewal ceremony.

Aruba Ocean Villas : Aruba Ocean Villas is home to some of the most stunning overwater villas and beach bungalows on the island. Each villa utilizes wood, marble and stone all handpicked by the owner and sourced from places like Brazil, Indonesia and Suriname. Breakfast is served in the villa with a chef cooking in front of you, in the pool as a floating breakfast or on the beach.

Boardwalk Boutique Hotel : This boutique hotel run by local twin sisters was once a coconut plantation. Today, the hotel has complimentary beach huts and sun beds where guests can order food on the beach served by The Ritz-Carlton. Its colorful casitas are the epitome of island vibes.

Shoco Cabin Airbnb : A nature lodge for true outdoor lovers, this rental showcases Aruba’s natural beauty. Guests can take a dip in the pool, go on a nearby hike, take a nap in the hammock or read a book by the fireplace. A car is recommended when staying here so that you can easily explore its surroundings.

Palm tree covered island in Belize just off the main coast, with calm blue waters.

Who Will Love It: Marine and nature lovers

All-Star Attractions: A visit to Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye

What Not To Miss: A helicopter tour over the Blue Hole; swimming in Shark Ray Alley

Where To Stay: Cayo Espanto ; Gaïa Riverlodge ; Modern Luxury Cabin

Belize offers a balanced mix of history, culture and outdoor activities. Explore the Mayan Ruins on the mainland before adventuring through the rainforest, followed by taking a helicopter tour over the infamous Blue Hole, a giant sinkhole off the coast of Belize. Swimming, snorkeling or diving in Shark Ray Alley and Hol Chan Marine Reserve is a must. Round out your trip by partaking in a cultural festival. In August, the country celebrates the Deer Dance Festival in San Antonio, where visitors can watch traditional dance rituals that imitate the hunting of a deer. Also taking place this month is San Pedro’s International Costa Maya Festival, one of the largest festivals in Belize, and the Tres Pescados Slam Tournament, where travelers can watch tarpon, bonefishing, casting and boat poling competitions.

Cayo Espanto : This luxurious private island resort offers bungalows right on the water and activities such as kayaking, catamaraning and paddleboarding. Guests can also opt to book private diving, snorkeling, fishing and sunset boat cruises from the island. Private meals are made-to-order and creatively served in different locations on the island each night.

Gaïa Riverlodge : Nature lovers will want to book this lodge, which is well-located for exploring the country’s natural wonders. The lodge sits at the top of Five-Sisters Waterfalls in the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve, surrounded by native birds and indigenous plant species.

Modern Luxury Cabin : This two-bedroom cabin is a hidden gem in the jungle, completely immersed in nature. A car is needed to visit nearby tourist attractions such as San Ignacio, the ATM Cave and the Xunantunich Maya ruins. The space is particularly great for a work-from-home getaway as it offers strong Wi-Fi with beautiful views.

The Colorful waterfront and harbor of Bonaire

Who Will Love It: Travelers seeking the island life

All-Star Attractions: Jibe City and Bonaire National Marine Park

What Not To Miss: Windsurfing; scuba diving; cactus liqueur; iguana soup

Where To Stay: Delfins Beach Resort Bonaire ; Buddy Dive Resort ; Little Gem Airbnb

Bonaire is a Caribbean island located outside of the hurricane belt, making August a wonderful time to visit. The island is home to the oldest marine reserve in the world, a dreamy destination for divers and those looking to get PADI certified while on the island. The tiny island also has a national park, Washington Slagbaai National Park, which is a perfect place for hiking followed by a dip in the sea. Foodies will love Senang’s sushi platter, Sebastian’s romantic over-water setting and Kite City food truck’s tuna burgers.

Delfins Beach Resort Bonaire : This waterfront resort offers studios, flats, penthouses and villas. It is home to a very large gym, a diving school and one of the best Japanese restaurants on the island. Delfins also has a private beach; the property’s beautiful tropical gardens can be admired while walking from your room to the shore.

Buddy Dive Resort : This resort is a haven for scuba diving lovers or those wanting to become certified. The resort has a classroom on-site, and dives take place right from the hotel’s dock. The resort is also home to Blennies, an oceanfront restaurant where shoes are optional and live Caribbean music fills the air.

Little Gem Airbnb : This one-bedroom Airbnb has a fully equipped kitchen and a dedicated workspace. It’s perfect for travelers looking to relax outside, as it offers a garden and a private outdoor pool.

Famous Sarakiniko beach on Milos island, Greece."n

Milos, Greece

Who Will Love It: Travelers who love discovering small beachy towns

All-Star Attractions: Sarakiniko beach; Plaka town

What Not To Miss: A tour of Kleftiko and the sea caves

Where To Stay: Domes White Coast Milos ; White Pebble Suites ; Villa Eva

Milos typically gets overlooked by its neighbors, but this charming Cycladic island has plenty to offer. The moon-like landscape of Sarakiniko beach is one of the most picturesque in the world, while Tsigrado beach is one of the most remote, requiring a ladder climb down a cliff and passing through a hole via a rope. The weather in August is perfect for strolling through the picturesque villages of Plaka and Pollonia or taking a boat excursion to visit the sea caves. August is also when one of the island’s largest and most important festivals takes place: Feast of the Dormition. Every evening until midnight, the streets are filled with dancing, singing and local delicacies. Foodies will love Gialos, a restaurant set on the waterfront that serves some of the freshest seafood on the island, as well as Sirocco restaurant, where fish is prepared in volcanic sand right next to you.

Domes White Coast Milos : This luxury waterfront hotel is the epitome of sleek. All suites come with a private infinity pool and sea and sunset views. A fine dining restaurant as well as a bar is located on the property.

White Pebble Suites : This boutique hotel located in Pollonia features architecture of the Greek islands and local materials such as marble, wood and polished cement. All suites offer beautiful coastal views.

Villa Eva : The spacious villa of this family-run property has four bedrooms, a pool, a BBQ set, a cabana, a patio and a large garden. Homemade breakfast awaits you on the veranda each morning. The owners are beyond hospitable and are always there to provide local recommendations.

Geneva skyline cityscape, French-Swiss in Switzerland. Aerial view of Jet d'eau fountain, Lake Leman, bay and harbor from the bell tower of Saint-Pierre Cathedral. Sunny day blue sky.

Geneva, Switzerland

Who Will Love It: Shoppers; chocolate lovers; watch enthusiasts

All-Star Attractions: Bains des Pâquis; The Flower Clock

What Not To Miss: Pregny Alp Festival; Pachamama Connexion Festival; swimming in Lake Geneva

Where To Stay: La Réserve Genève Hotel and Spa ; Hôtel Longemalle Genève ; Loft Airbnb

This vibrant European city comes alive during the summer months, and August in particular finds Geneva filled with outdoor music, open-air movies, lake swimming and numerous festivals. Lake Geneva provides a picturesque center around which all shops and activities revolve. Known for being the watch capital of the world, visitors can take a Geneva watch tour, visit the Patek Philippe Museum or admire the The Flower Clock. Festivals to attend this month include the Pregny Alp Festival, which commemorates Swiss culture, and the Pachamama Connexion Festival, which celebrates the connection between music and nature.

La Réserve Genève Hotel and Spa : This beautiful hotel has a safari theme and is home to three restaurants, a spa, outdoor and indoor swimming pools and a range of activities. The hotel also offers a summer kids program and a kid’s club.

Hôtel Longemalle Genève : Having undergone a renovation in 2019, this hotel offers four types of rooms in the heart of the city. The hotel is home to a Lebanese restaurant as well as a restaurant that offers seasonal dishes.

Loft AirBnB : Book lovers will fall in love with this spacious, centrally located loft duplex, which features an entire wall lined with books. A queen bed, sunken bath, living room, open kitchen and small garden can be found on the ground floor, while the lower floor has twin beds and a bathroom with a shower.

Galápagos Islands

View of the beach in front of Puerto Villamil on Isabela Island in the Galapagos Islands in Ecuador

Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

Who Will Love It: Wildlife lovers and explorers at heart

All-Star Attractions: The Tortoise Center on Santa Cruz

What Not To Miss: Leaving a postcard at Post Office Bay on Floreana Island

Where To Stay: Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel ; Ecoventura ; Ocean View Airbnnb

Exploring the Galápagos Islands is a bucket list item for many travelers, and August is a great time to visit. In August, weather is cool and dry, allowing for comfortable exploration temperature. It’s also an active month for the wildlife, as this is the month the California sea lions and the Galápagos fur seals typically give birth and are nursing. It’s also when the celebrated Galápagos giant tortoises lay their eggs and when blue-footed boobies nest. Visitors can choose between a land-based visit or a cruise visit, which allows for entrance onto more islands.

Finch Bay Galapagos Hotel : Located on the island of Santa Cruz, the hotel is situated within steps of the beach. All rooms and suites offer shared or private balconies with hammocks. Yellow warblers can be spotted zipping across the mangroves from your window.

Ecoventura : This luxury cruise expedition offers two routes; volcanic wonders and beaches and bays. The routes allow travelers to explore islands they wouldn’t be able to access without a cruise, with an experienced naturalist pointing out the fascinating wildlife and flora.

Ocean View Airbnb : This one-bedroom ocean view suite with a private terrace is located in Puerto Ayora, on Santa Cruz Island. It offers all of the essentials but is most notable for its stunning sunrise views.

View of Traditional white buildings at sunset, Bodrum, Turkey

Bodrum, Turkey

Who Will Love It: Nightlife lovers; culture seekers

All-Star Attractions: Bodrum Castle

What Not To Miss: Bodrum International Ballet Festival; Bodrum Music Festival

Where To Stay: Scorpios Bodrum ; Birdcage 33 Hotel ; Gorilla Suite Airbnb

With stunning beaches, chic beach clubs and stylish hotels, Bodrum is a place to see and be seen. Not only are beach clubs in full swing during August, but festivals such as the Bodrum International Ballet Festival, which welcomes ballet companies from around the world, and the Bodrum Music Festival, which displays the prestigious works of orchestras and soloists, also take place during this month. For partygoers, some of the best beach clubs in Bodrum include The Bodrum Edition and Maca Kizi Beach, while Gumusluk Fenerci and Orfoz are some of the best restaurants for foodies.

Scorpios Bodrum : If you’re a fan of the original Scorpios Mykonos, the Bodrum location offers the same great ambience. Sumptuous amenities include ocean views, terraces, rain showers and an infinity pool overlooking the Aegean Sea. Guests can relax and recharge at the hotel’s ritual space, and music performances take place almost daily on the property.

Birdcage 33 Hotel : Having opened its doors in 2022, this hotel is perched on a hill surrounded by olive and oak trees with views of both the town and the lively marina. All stays include a welcome bottle of local wine, fruit platter, homemade Turkish Delight, daily a la carte breakfast and daily afternoon tea with a selection of sweets and cookies.

Gorilla Suite Airbnb : Located in the center of Bodrum, right along the waterfront, this Airbnb offers exceptional views of Bodrum Castle. The one-bedroom and living room suite also has direct beach access and is within walking distance of a pedestrian street that features many restaurants, shops and bars.

About Latifah Al-Hazza, Your August Vacation Guide

I am an Emmy Award-winning travel journalist and documentary filmmaker who graduated with journalism degrees from the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign (BS) and the University of Southern California (MS). I enjoy writing about all things travel, whether it's about a tribe in the Omo Valley or the latest luxury hotel opening in the Maldives. My first international flight was when I was three months old; since then I've traveled to over 55 countries. When I'm not writing, you can find me (still) traveling solo, with my parents, or with my 4 pound Pomeranian. In addition to Forbes Vetted, my work can be found in Vogue, Harper's Bazaar, Travel + Leisure, Fodor's, INSIDER, CNN Travel, The New York Times, TimeOut , and more. I am also the co-founder (along with my mother) of Femscape Sojourns, a boutique women’s travel company. I currently reside between Virginia, Chicago, and Kuwait. Follow my adventures on Instagram @tifahtravels .

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4 Best Frozen Foods To Buy in Bulk at Costco on a $50 Budget

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Costco is a great place to stock up on pretty much everything, but the freezer section holds a world of excitement. Although its contents are ever-changing, there are always great deals on the most delicious eats that’ll stock your freezer on a budget .

Here’s a list of our favorite Costco frozen foods that’ll keep you full and won’t drain your bank account. And as an added bonus, these items add up to just under $50, so you can stay on budget .

Clovis Farms Organic Super Smoothie Morning Blend

Price: $10.79

Start your day right with this smoothie mix. Each bag has individual packs of fruits and veggies ready for your blender. You get strawberries, blueberries, bananas, mango, kale and spinach. It’s an easy way to eat healthy without the hassle of buying and cutting up all those fruits and veggies yourself.

Bibigo Beef Mandu Dumplings

Price: $9.99

These dumplings are a fan favorite at Costco. They’re big and filled with beef and veggies. You can steam them, fry them or even microwave them for a quick meal. A three-pound bag gives you lots of meals for just under $10.

Cuisine Adventures Green Chile Chicken Firecrackers

Price: $13.49

These are like fancy egg rolls filled with chicken, cheese, and green chilies. They’re great for snacks or as a side dish with dinner. You get 30 in a box, so they’ll last a while. People say they taste like the southwest egg rolls you get at restaurants.

La Boulangerie Smoked Ham and Swiss Cheese Pockets

Price: $15.69

These aren’t your average hot pockets. They’re made by a famous bakery in California and taste way better. The croissant outside is flaky, and the ham and cheese inside is yummy. You can eat them for breakfast, lunch or a snack.

Why These Foods Are Great Buys

These foods give you a mix of meals, snacks and sides. The smoothie mix helps you eat more fruits and veggies. The dumplings and ham and cheese pockets are easy meals for busy days. The firecrackers and naan are good for when you want something extra with your meal or for snacking.

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Buying these foods frozen means they’ll last a long time in your freezer. You don’t have to worry about them going bad before you can eat them. This helps you save money because you’re not wasting food.

How To Make the Most of Your Frozen Foods

To get the most out of these foods, think about different ways to use them. The smoothie mix is great for a quick breakfast, but you could also use it to make delicious summer-time popsicles. The dumplings are good on their own, but you could also add them to soup.

The firecrackers could be a snack, or you could cut them up and put them on a salad. The ham and cheese pockets are good as is and are a perfect breakfast on the go.

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Poland is one of the best places to travel on a budget. One can easily enjoy a beer in a stylish bar for under $4. Accommodation is cheap, and modern buses make travel around the country safe and easy. Currency: Polish Zloty; Accommodation: $5-15 for a dorm bed. $30 for private;
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If you want to travel in Kenya the local way, take advantage of their well-connected bus services. These long-haul buses connect most cities, including like Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu and are cheap, costing approximately INR 2,080. There are many private operators nationwide so it's best to ask for the most recommended ones.
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By staying at least a week on Siargao, you'll be able to experience the best of the island and explore beyond the main town. 2. Amed, Bali. Best for diving and snorkeling sites. Amed — a coastal area located in northeast — has maintained the local charm and warm welcome that initially made the island of Bali so popular. Snorkelers and ...
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Costco is a great place to stock up on pretty much everything, but the freezer section holds a world of excitement. Although its contents are ever-changing, there are always great deals on the most delicious eats that'll stock your freezer on a budget.. Here's a list of our favorite Costco frozen foods that'll keep you full and won't drain your bank account.

10 Best Places to Travel on a Budget

1. Thailand

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The 31 Cheapest Places to Travel in 2024

Our Favorite Cheap Destinations Quick List:

1. Laos, $30/day

2. Vietnam, $30/day

3. Cambodia, $30/day

4. Northern Thailand, $32/day

5. Indonesia, $35/day

6. The Philippines, $37/day

7. Malaysia, $40/day

8. Sri Lanka, $35/day

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

10. Taiwan, $45/day

11. India, $30/day

12. Kyrgyzstan, $25/day

13. Uzbekistan, $35/day

14. Romania, $40/day

15. Georgia, $30/day

16. Greece, $45/day

17. Czechia, $40/day

18. Poland, $44/day

19. Croatia, $50/day

20. Turkey, $45/day

21. Lithuania, $44/day

22. Estonia, $44/day

23. Latvia, $47/day

The Americas

25. Nicaragua, $35/day

26. Guatemala, $38/day

27. Colombia, $35/day

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

29. South Africa, $42/day

30. Namibia, $45/day

31. Egypt, $30/day

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Cheapest Nicest: 10 European Cities to Visit on a Budget

Athens, Greece

Lisbon, Portugal

Klagenfurt, Austria

Kaunas, Lithuania

Riga, Latvia

Berat, Albania

Brașov, Transylvania, Romania

Sofia, Bulgaria

Izmir, Turkey

Tbilisi, Georgia

Sina Brufani

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Lassen Volcanic National Park, California

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Badlands, South Dakota

New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, West Virginia

Door County, Wisconsin

Panama City, Panama

Québec City, Canada

Titusville, Florida

Washington, DC

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Indianapolis, Indiana

Big Bear Lake, California

Leesburg, Virginia

Flagstaff, Arizona

Columbus, Ohio

Galveston, Texas

San Juan, Puerto Rico

Jekyll Island, Georgia

Estes Park, Colorado

Budget trips: 20 of the cheapest places to travel

1. Thailand — for fantastic local food and more

7. Greece for popular tourist destinations on a budget

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