Whether you’re on a budget, or simply looking to travel for less, here are all the BEST cheap places to travel around the globe this year and beyond
Travel doesn’t have to be expensive
In fact, for 2 years we traveled all around the world on little more than $30/day each
It’s possible to travel to different places, on a variety of continents, all while spending less than you would at home
Whether you’re interested in beaches, mountains, Asia, South America, Europe, or island-hopping, you can travel cheaply.
However, with so many different places out there, it can be a little daunting to figure out where exactly you can travel to on a budget.
That’s why we’ve rounded up this ultimate list of the best cheap places to travel to.
To help you figure out exactly where you can go that's affordable
So, whether you’re on a budget, or simply looking to travel for less, here are the BEST cheap places to travel to this year
Starting with…
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1. Philippines
Our favorite cheap place to travel to is the Philippines.
The archipelago is not only affordable to visit, but has some of the most beautiful beaches, kindest people, and incredible natural landmarks that you could ever imagine
We spent 4 weeks in The Philippines, and could easily have spent 4 months as there’s so much to do
Some of our favorite places in this country include El Nido, Coron, Siargao, and Siquijor. If you've got some extra time then you'll want to visit Bohol and Cebu too.
Cost of visiting the Philippines. $30/day
Backpacking in the Philippines is incredibly affordable. For a bed in a dorm room, you can expect to pay about $7-$10.
Food is very affordable as well, and you can easily get by with spending $5-$15 a day on food. If you budget is closer to $15/day on food, you’ll be able to have some really nice meals.
Drinks are super cheap, and you can expect to pay $1-$2/drink.
For activities and attractions, you can safely budget about $10/day. Visiting sights like waterfalls usually only costs a few dollars, and tours cost about $10-$20 max.
Keep in mind that the prices listed above are specifically for single budget travelers.
If you’re looking to get a private, air-conditioned room, it’ll likely cost closer to $20/night.
Things to do in the Philippines
- Visit Nacpan Beach.
Nacpan Beach is incredible. It’s massive, so you can always find solitude on it, and the crystal clear waters are absolutely amazing for swimming.
- Island Hopping in El Nido
One of the best things to do in the Philippines is to go island hopping in El Nido. There are 4 different tour options, and you’ll get to see some incredible beaches and other natural landmarks like a blue lagoon.
- Bohol’s Chocolate Hills
The chocolate hills in Bohol are a naturally occurring phenomenon and they’re incredibly cool to see. It’s also very affordable to visit them. They’re only ‘chocolate’ in the dry season though, in the wet season they turn green. This full-day Bohol tour includes a visit to the Chocolate Hills
- Cambugahay Falls
Visiting Cambugahay Falls was one of my favorite things to do in the Philippines. They’re free to visit, and interactive, meaning you can swim in them, and use the swings in the falls for a small fee.
2. Sri Lanka
With beautiful beaches, friendly locals, and vibrant jungles, is an incredible experience.
It’s also one of the cheapest places to travel to, with so many world famous destinations like Anuradhapura, Arugam Bay, Ella, and Nuwara Eliya
You've also got Mirissa, Trincomalee, Kandy, and Mullaitivu; trust me you'll be spoilt for choice
We recommend spending at least 3 weeks in Sri Lanka to truly take it all in. For such a small country, there really is SO much to do here
It's honestly one of the best places to travel in the world, especially if you're on a budget as there are so many affordable accommodation options
Cost of visiting Sri Lanka. $30/day
For a single traveler on a budget, staying in dorm rooms, and eating local [but delicious. ] food, Sri Lanka can easily be visited on a budget of $30/day.
Typically, a bed in a hostel will cost about $8-$15, and meals will cost $5-$10 a day. This leaves you with some money leftover for activities, transportation, and souvenirs.
There are a couple of big ticket items in Sri Lanka that you can do which will cost money, namely, taking a safari.
A safari in Sri Lanka can cost anywhere from $100, to several 100. If this is something you might want to do in Sri Lanka [and we highly recommend it. ] then this will push your daily budget up from $30.
Things to do in Sri Lanka
- Take a safari.
Taking a safari is easily one of the best things to do in Sri Lanka. There are tons of options, and it’s not as pricey as some African safaris, and you’ll see loads of animals
Yala National Park is one of the most popular places to on a safari, or you can head to Wilpattu like we did
- Visit Sigiriya
is a unique rock formation that was created around 2 billion years ago from a mound of molten magma.
It’s great to visit, and the view from the top is amazing.
- Snorkel
Because the water in Sri Lanka is so blue and clear, it’s a great place to snorkel. If you do it on your own, snorkeling is also free which is great.
While there are lots of great places in Sri Lanka to snorkel, if you do it along the south coast in Unawatuna, you’re bound to see some sea turtles. Here are some other great snorkeling spots in Sri Lanka
3. Nicaragua
Another one of the best cheap places to travel to is Nicaragua.
This warm, central American country boasts affordable prices, warm locals, a vibrant Latin culture, and some beautiful natural landmarks.
Be sure to explore top destinations like Leon, Granada, and Ometepe
Cost of visiting Nicaragua. $25/day
Being one of the cheapest countries in Central America, you can get by pretty well in Nicaragua on a tiny daily budget. For a single traveler staying in dorms and eating local meals, you can get by on about $25/day.
In Nicaragua, the cost of a single bed in a dorm is around $10. Groceries are cheap, and local meals cost about $2-$5, so if you budget $5-10/day for food you’ll be able to eat pretty well.
Transportation is incredibly inexpensive in Nicaragua as well, and you can get around on local “chicken buses” for a very low price
Things to do in Nicaragua
- Visit San Juan Del Sur
This coastal town in the far south of Nicaragua is known for its vibrant backpacking culture and proximity to some awesome beaches. Be sure to check out our full guide on what to do in San Juan Del Sur
- Try surfing
Nicaragua has some of the best surfing in the world. The water temperature also hovers right around 80 degrees, making it incredibly comfortable to be in the ocean.
- See Lake Nicaragua
Lake Nicaragua is incredible, and it has 2 volcanoes in the middle of it. It’s also the only freshwater lake to have ocean life, including bull sharks.
This kayaking tour will allow you to explore the lake and admire the epic views all around you
4. Vietnam
Next up on our list is Vietnam. We spent 3 weeks exploring Vietnam and had the most wonderful time
This incredible Asian country has a lot to offer, from stunning crystal blue waters, delicious street food, and incredibly cheap prices.
Now, where to start
There are tons of fantastic places to visit in Vietnam with some of the most popular being Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Hoi An, and Hue
If you've got the time then you can also head to Mui Ne, Da Lat, and Nha Trang
When it comes to cheap travel destinations, Vietnam is one of the best options
Cost of visiting Vietnam. $25/day
A single person traveling on a budget in Vietnam can easily get by on $25/day.
A bed in a dorm costs about $4-$10 a night. You can get a meal for $1, or $4-$5 at a sit down restaurant, so you won't need to spend much on food either
Public transport is also extremely affordable with some local buses costing less than $1.
Activities in Vietnam are relatively cheap too. A tour of Halong Bay starts at around $50, but most tours in Vietnam are much much less expensive.
Things to do in Vietnam
- Ride a moped around
Riding a moped around the country is by far one of the best things to do in Vietnam. It’s not only a great way to get around, but one of the best ways to take in all the amazing scenery.
- Explore waterfalls
Vietnam has some absolutely breathtaking waterfalls; two of the best are Datanla Falls and Elephant Falls. Here's some more information on the waterfalls in Vietnam
- Take a cruise in Halong Bay
Halong Bay is a Unesco World Heritage site, and it’s absolutely incredible. We did a Halong Bay boat tour with Rosa Cruise and it was amazing.
5. Indonesia
Indonesia is another incredibly affordable yet amazing destination to travel to. In fact, Indonesia is one of the cheapest countries to visit if you're looking for a tropical getaway
While some things in the country can be very expensive, it can also be traveled to at a very low cost, especially as getting around Indonesia is relatively easy
Even if you're traveling on a budget, you can still experience the beautiful islands of this country including Java and Bali
Bali is the most popular island of Indonesia by far, although Java has lots to offer with its variety of fantastic destinations including Yogyakarta and Malang
Cost of visiting Indonesia. $35/day
Whilst backpacking in Indonesia, one person can get away with a budget of $35/day.
Accommodation in a dorm costs $10-$15/night, meals cost less than $5, and transportation costs are as low as $1 to get from town to town.
Here's some information on the best places to stay in Indonesia
Drinks tend to be a little more expensive due to taxes levied by the government, and cocktails can cost up to $10. The local beers run about $2-$3
Things to do in Indonesia
- Explore Bali
Bali is the most popular country in Indonesia amongst backpackers, and there are lots of super romantic things for couples to do
If you're simply looking to see the most popular spots then you might want to check out this full-day highlights tour
- Visit waterfalls
Indonesia has TONS of beautiful waterfalls. One of our favorites is Tumpak Sewu in East Java
- Sunrise at Mount Bromo
The sunrise from Mount Bromo is one of the best in the world
6. India
India is probably the cheapest place in the world to travel to. It’s certainly a chaotic place, but it’s also wonderful to visit, and you can live like kings and queens on a budget
Not only will your wallet thank you for traveling to this beautiful country, but you'll be left with memories to last a lifetime
There are tons of fantastic places to visit in India including Delhi, Mumbai, Udaipur, Jaipur, and Jodhpur
We traveled India for 3 weeks and here’s what we discovered …
Cost of visiting India. $20/day
A single traveler can visit India on $20/day, and the slower you travel, the less expensive it will be.
A bed in a dorm goes from $4-$10, you can budget $4-$10 a day on food, transportation is incredibly affordable, and activities don’t cost much more than $5-$10.
Things to do in India
- See the Taj Mahal
The Taj Mahal in Agra is one of the grandest sights to see in India, and a must-visit for travelers. You'll also find plenty of fantastic hotels near the Taj Mahal
- Visit Varanasi
Varanasi is the Holy City of India, and it’s an incredibly important site for Hinduism. For the best experience, make sure you go on a sunrise boat tour
- Enjoy the beaches of Goa
The beaches in Goa are absolutely incredible, featuring bright blue waters, palm trees, and even sea turtles at some of them.
7. Bosnia
Bosnia is a beautiful Mediterranean country, and is rich in both history and natural beauty. It’s also one of the most affordable countries on the European continent to travel to.
Although Bosnia has a complicated and tragic past, today it's one of the best places to visit in Europe
Here's some more information on the top places to visit in Bosnia
Cost of visiting Bosnia. $40/day
A solo traveler backpacking in Bosnia, eating locally, cooking, staying in a dorm, and taking local transportation, can expect to spend $40 a day in Bosnia.
A bed in a dorm room runs for about $10-$15 a night. For food, you can easily get a meal for $4, and groceries are inexpensive
Things to do in Bosnia
- Visit the Mostar Bridge
Mostar is an incredible town in Bosnia, and one of the best things to do in here is to check out the super tall, 25 meter bridge. If you’re feeling daring, you can also jump off the Mostar Bridge
- Explore Sarajevo
Sarajevo is the capital of Bosnia, and it’s incredibly rich in history and culture. There's a fantastic walking tour that you can do too.
- Kravice Waterfalls
The massive Kravice Waterfalls are absolutely stunning, and a great place for outdoor recreation
8. Thailand
Beautiful islands, wild nightlife, and endless golden temples - Thailand is truly a traveler’s paradise. The best part?
It’s one of the cheapest vacation destinations in the world as everything is super affordable here
Some of the most popular places to visit in the country include Chiang Rai, Chiang Mai, Pai, and Bangkok
You can check out our 3 week Thailand itinerary for a full rundown of what we got up to here
Cost of visiting Thailand. $25/day
It’s extremely cheap to travel around Thailand. Staying in hostels, taking public transportation, and eating the delicious street food will only run you about $25/day.
A bed in a hostel is only $5-$10, and you can eat tasty street food for less than $1 per meal.
Transportation is incredibly affordable, with taxis costing $3 or less, and buses costing under $1.
Tours are also fairly inexpensive in Thailand, typically running anywhere from $10-$35.
To get scuba dive certified in Thailand costs around $300, and that's one of the most expensive activities you'll find in the country
Things to do in Thailand
- Visit the Grand Palace in Bangkok
The Grand Palace is massive, and incredibly beautiful. Paying a visit to the Grand Palace is one of the most popular things to do in Bangkok
- Snorkel in Koh Tao
When island hopping Thailand, be sure to stop at Koh Tao which has some of the best snorkeling in the country. With crystal clear waters and vibrant marine life, you’ll see tons of fish if you decide to go snorkeling or diving
- Experience a floating market
The floating markets are unlike anything else in the world, and a must-see in any Bangkok itinerary.
9. Guatemala
Guatemala is a small country in Central America with insane natural landmarks and beautiful colonial cities
It’s also incredibly affordable to visit, and is a great backpacking destination.
Great places to visit, not listed below, include Lake Atitlan, Flores, and the Tikal Mayan Ruins
Cost of visiting Guatemala. $30
One person backpacking frugally in Guatemala, eating local meals, and staying in hostels can expect to spend around $30/day.
A bed in a dorm costs about $5-$12, local foods cost about $1-$4 a meal, and local transportation [buses and tuk tuks] is very cheap.
Activities typically are the most expensive cost, and include things like volcano hikes, coffee farm tours, and cooking classes.
Things to do in Guatemala
- Wander around Antigua
Antigua is a lovely colonial city surrounded by mountains. It’s a great place to take Spanish immersion classes, and base yourself in Guatemala for longer trips
- Visit Semuc Champey
Semuc Champey is a massive natural bridge in Guatemala. The pools are very refreshing, and you can take some beautiful photos
- Hike Acatenango
Acatenango is a volcano you can hike up, and camp overnight near Antigua. From the top, you get an insane view of the Fuego Volcano erupting
Here's an overnight hiking tour that will take you to Acatenango
10. Cambodia
Cambodia is full of beautiful temples, friendly locals, and incredibly natural landmarks
It’s also one of the cheapest holiday destinations in Southeast Asia
Some of our favorite locations include Kampot and Battambang. , although you've also go the capital of Phnom Penh and Siem Reap
If you love animals you'll want to visit the Phnom Tamao Wildlife Center too
Here's some more information on things to do in Cambodia
Cost of visiting Cambodia. $20/day
For $20/day, you can afford a bed in a dorm, basic meals, local transportation, and some activities.
A bed in a dorm runs for about $3-$10, meals cost $5-$10 a day, activities are very inexpensive and you can even rent a motorbike for less than $10/day depending on your haggling skills.
One of the most expensive things in Cambodia is a 3 day pass to Angkor Wat, which currently costs $62.
Things to do in Cambodia
- Visit Angkor Wat
Angkor Wat is a massive Buddhist Temple Complex. It’s also one of the best places to catch the sunrise in Cambodia, and you can actually go on a sunrise guided tour here.
- Adventure in the Cardamom Mountains
The Cardamom Mountains is a mountain range that's home to the largest rainforest in Southeast Asia. There are several treks you can do through the jungle here - but they aren’t for the faint of heart
- Visit uncrowded beaches
Cambodia has some incredibly beautiful beaches that are not overly touristy. Some great beaches to visit in Cambodia include Sihanoukville and Koh Rong
11. Laos
Laos is a beautiful Asian country, and a true paradise for travelers on a budget. For this reason, it's a great option if you're looking for cheap places to go on holiday
This country also happens to be home to some of the most beautiful waterfalls in Southeast Asia.
There are plenty of incredible places to visit in Laos so here's an article that might help you plan your travels
Cost of visiting Laos. $30/day
On about $30/day, one person can afford a bed in a dorm, cook themselves and eat local meals, and do some fun activities like river tubing
A bed in a dorm runs for about $5-$10, meals will be around $3-$10/day, and you can rent a motorbike for under $15 a day.
Things to do in Laos
- Tube down the Vang Vieng River
One of the most popular tourist activities in Laos is to tube down the Vang Vieng river. There are tons of other things to do in Vang Vieng as well.
- See the Kuang Si caves and waterfalls
The Kuang Si waterfall is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Laos. You're also able to swim in the pools at the base.
This fantastic tour will take you to Kuang Si waterfall and Pak Ou Caves
- Visit Wat Phu
The Buddhist temple Wat Phu is a Unesco World Heritage site, and one of the oldest places of worship in Laos.
12. Nepal
The mountainous country of Nepal is both incredibly cheap, and incredibly fun to travel to
Most necessities like food, accommodation, and transportation only cost a few dollars if you keep to the local options
The main reason people visit Nepal is to explore the mountains and there are plenty of fantastic hikes to do. However, you'll also be treated to some pretty epic views from destinations such as Nagarkot and Pokhara if you're not up for the exertion
Cost of visiting Nepal. $25/day
Nepal is by far one of the most affordable places to travel to. On $25/day, you can afford a bed in hostels, do plenty of hikes [aside from Everest], and eat some delicious food.
On average, a dorm bed in Nepal costs about $5/night, food costs around $5/day, transportation is very cheap, and many hikes and activities are free.
Things to do in Nepal
- Trek
Nepal is best known for its trekking. Home to the infamous Himalayan Mountains, there is a TON of trekking to be done in Nepal, including Mount Everest.
Aside from Everest, some of the most popular treks in Nepal include the Annapurna Base Camp Trek from Pokhara and the Gokyo Lakes Trek
- Explore Kathmandu
Kathmandu is the capital of Nepal, and it’s home to bustling city streets, temples, and delicious food. Check out more in our guide on the best places to see in Kathmandu
- Visit Chitwan National Park
Chitwan National Park is a UNESCO site and it’s home to some impressive wildlife such as elephants, pythons, Bengal tigers, and more.
Here's a 3-day Chitwan safari tour if you're thinking of visiting
13. Mexico
Mexico is one of the most beautiful countries in the world, with one of the most diverse landscapes
It’s home to some delicious food, friendly people, and is actually one of the cheapest places to go on holiday.
Cost of visiting Mexico. $40/day
Mexico is generally pretty cheap to visit, although its size makes transportation a bit more expensive. But travelling in an RV can be a great way to tackle transportation and accommodation costs as one
Generally, a bed in a dorm costs $10-$15, street food costs $1-3$/meal, and the public bus only costs a few dollars.
Activities and entry fees are also inexpensive in Mexico, usually costing no more than a few dollars.
Things to do in Mexico
- Experience the cuisine
Mexican food is SO good, and it’s also very cheap. Tasty street tacos, tamales, burritos, and pozole are all cheap and delicious foods to try in this country
If you're spending some time in Mexico city [which you 100% should] then here's an authentic food tour that will show you some of the best dishes around
- Swim in Cenotes
Cenotes are natural sinkholes with underground pools of water. There are tons of them on the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico, and they’re super fun to visit and swim in
I recommend staying in Valladolid to best experience the sinkholes, as this area is home to the famous Cenote Suytun
- Enjoy the beaches
Mexico has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Some of the most popular are in Cancun, Tulum, Playa Del Carmen, and Puerto Vallarta. However, there are TONS more waiting to be explored.
14. Georgia
Georgia is a beautiful and underrated European country that happens to be extremely cheap to travel to
It’s best known for its incredible Black Sea beaches, and Vardzia - a cave monastery.
Here's some more information on the best things to do in Georgia
Cost of visiting Georgia. $30/day
Europe is known for being a pretty expensive place to travel. However, Georgia is very affordable to visit and can be traveled on a budget of $30/day.
A bed in a dorm in Georgia costs anywhere from $3-$15. I know that’s a pretty big range, and that’s because in Tbilisi, accommodations go for $10-$15/night, while in smaller cities it is much, much cheaper.
Food costs will be around $10-$15, and transportation is about $3 for local buses, and $10 for intercity buses.
Things to do in Georgia
- Wander the Tbilisi Old Town
Old Town Tbilisi is full of ancient churches and other beautiful buildings that rest against a hillside. It’s a great place to explore and get lost in
- Visit Vardzia
Vardzia is the remnants of a cave monastery site built in the 12th century. This day tour from Tbilisi will take you to Vardzia and Borjomi Central Park
- Hike in the Caucasus Mountains
There are some incredible treks you can do in the Caucasus Mountains. It’s also the best way to take in the beautiful landscape of Georgia.
15. Malaysia
Malaysia is home to some incredible jungles, beautiful beaches, and temples. Not to mention delicious food….
The country is very affordable to travel through, and is a great option if you're looking for cheap holiday destinations
You'll also find plenty of fantastic places to visit in Malaysia
Cost of visiting Malaysia. $35/day
While eating street food, taking local buses, and staying in hostels, Malaysia will run you about $35/day.
A bed in a dorm costs $5-$15, you can easily spend less than $10/day on food, and buses only cost a few dollars.
Things to do in Malaysia
- Visit the Cameron Highlands
Tea lovers rejoice - the Cameron Highlands in Malaysia produce tons of tea, and they’re also an incredibly beautiful place to explore.
- Explore the Batu Caves
The limestone Batu Caves are an important site for Hindu Pilgrims. They are also fun to explore, and there are tons of rock climbing routes around them.
You can visit Batu Caves on a half-day tour from Kuala Lumpur
- Hop around the Perhentian Islands
The Perhentian is home to some of the most beautiful islands in Asia. You'll find lots of awesome snorkeling opportunities here, as well as some of the cheapest Scuba Diving certification there is.
16. Ecuador
Ecuador is a beautiful and affordable country in South America to travel to. It’s home to the Amazon rainforest, Andes, and even the Galapagos Islands
Here's a 4-week Ecuador itinerary if you're looking to plan your route
Cost of visiting Ecuador. $25/day
For $25/day in Ecuador, you can afford a bed in a dorm, local meals & transportation, and some fun activities.
A dorm bed in Ecuador goes for about $10-$15, and you can get by on $10/day with groceries and local meals. Transportation and activities are all pretty cheap too.
Things to do in Ecuador
- Learn Spanish
Ecuador is one of the best places to learn Spanish due to cheap classes, and an easy accent to understand
- Trek the Quilotoa Loop
The Quilotoa Loop is one of the best ways to see some of the incredible natural sights Ecuador has to offer, such as stunning lakes and mountains
- Adventure in Banos
Banos is the adventure capital of Ecuador. There are incredible waterfalls, mountain biking, and one of the most popular things - the swing at Casa De Arbol.
From Banos you can also go on a full-day Amazon tour
17. Peru
Peru is yet another incredible country to visit on a budget. This backpacking gem is known for its food, Machu Picchu, Amazon rainforest, and rainbow mountains
Exploring Peru is one of the best things to do in South America so what are you waiting for?
Here's some more information on the best places to visit in Peru
Cost of visiting Peru. $25/day
With a budget of $25/day, one person can afford a bed in a dorm, a mix of groceries and local meals, budget transportation, and some fun activities.
Overall, Peru is a very affordable place to travel to. A bed in a dorm ranges from $6-$15, food costs are about $5-$10/day, and most activities are free or very cheap.
One of the most expensive things in Peru is to see Machu Picchu, which typically starts at $250.
Things to do in Peru
- Visit Machu Picchu
While it may be pricey, it’s definitely worth it - the ancient Incan citadel of Machu Picchu is incredible, and either a trek or a visit to it is by far one of the best things to do in Peru. Here's some more information on how to visit Machu Picchu
- See the rainbow mountain
The hike there may be strenuous, but it's entirely worth it to see the magnificent rainbow mountain. You can take a full-day tour from Cusco to see this breathtaking wonder
- See Lake Titicaca
Lake Titicaca is the highest navigable lake in the entire world, and is home to the famous floating houses.
18. Romania
Romania is another incredible yet cheap country to travel to. In fact, it's one of the cheapest countries in Europe.
You'll find plenty of exciting places to visit in Romania including charming towns, medieval villages, and historic castles
This country is also known for its folklore including the famous Count Dracula.
Here's an example of a 2-week Romania itinerary if you're planning a trip
Cost of visiting Romania. $35/day
With a budget of $35/day, a single traveler can travel throughout Romania staying in dorms, eating from local markets and shops, and traveling slowly using local transportation
In Romania, hostels go for about $10-$15/night, food costs run about $10-$15/night, and a full day of transportation will run you about $10
Things to do in Romania
- Visit Castles
Romania is FULL of beautiful castles. Some of the best sites to see include Bran Castle, Peles Castle, and Corvin Castle.
- Explore Bucharest
Romania’s capital is full of charm and rich history. It also isn’t over touristed like many other European capital cities, making it wonderful for exploring
You can also go on a walking tour to learn about the city's communist history
- Chase the Dracula folklore in Sighisoara
Sighisoara is said to be the home of Dracula. Even if you aren’t entranced by the folklore, it’s still a really cool town to visit, and the town center is a UNESCO world heritage sight
19. Czech Republic
The Czech Republic is [surprisingly] another of the best places to travel for cheap
This fun Central European country has some culturally rich cities, beautiful mountains, and tasty cuisine to discover.
If you're looking to visit this beautiful country then here's some information on the best places to visit in the Czech Republic
Cost of visiting the Czech Republic. $40/day
With a budget of about $40/day, you can afford to travel in the Czech Republic while staying in dorms, eating locally, and traveling slowly.
In the Czech Republic, a room in a dorm goes for about $10-$20, and you can eat pretty well with a food budget of $10-$15/day.
It also only costs about $15-$20 to take a bus from city to city, and the slower you travel, the less your travel costs will be per day.
Just keep in mind that the capital of Prague is the exception, as prices here are much higher than elsewhere in the country
Things to do in the Czech Republic
- Explore Prague
Prague is the capital of the Czech Republic, and an incredible European city to explore.
One of the best ways to see the city is by heading out on a sightseeing evening cruise
- Christmas markets
The Christmas markets in the Czech Republic are so fun to explore. They run from late November to early January
- Visit Cesky Krumlov
Less than a 3 hour train ride from Prague; Cesky Krumlov is a fairytale-esque city with castles, gardens, and a magnificent old town. Here's some more information about Cesky Krumlov
20. Turkey
Turkey is a unique travel destination, with a rich history and buzzing culture
It’s one of the cheapest places to travel to, and there is a lot to see in this mysterious country.
Here are some of the top things to do in Turkey
Cost of visiting Turkey. $30/night
Turkey can be quite cheap to travel to, depending on how you do it. With $30/night, you can sleep in a dorm, sample delicious Turkish foods, travel locally, and explore many of the churches and architectural wonders in Turkey.
Generally, a bed in a dorm costs $5-$15/night, food costs $10-$15 a day, and taxis only cost a few dollars a ride
Things to do in Turkey
- Wander Istanbul
Istanbul is a bustling city filled with marvelous sights like Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Grand Bazaar
- Explore the caves in Cappadocia
Cappadocia has one of the most unique landscapes in the world, filled with caves and cone-chapped rock formations known as “fairy chimneys. ”
This full-day tour will take you to all the best locations in Cappadocia.
- Visit Ephesus
Ephesus is one of many incredible architectural sights in Turkey. Exploring Ephesus, and many other destinations in the country will allow you to travel through time back to the Ancient World.
21. Estonia
This Baltic country is known for its lovely cities, exciting nightlife, and beautiful, untouched forests and national parks.
It’s also incredibly affordable to visit, and can be traveled to on a budget of as little as $35/day
So, if you're looking for cheap places to visit in Europe then don't miss out on Estonia
We actually visited this country during our Baltic road trip which saw us travel through Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia
For an idea of what to expect in this incredible destination, read our guide on the best things to do in Estonia
Cost of visiting Estonia. $35/day
Spending $35/day in Estonia, you can sleep in dorms, eat a mix of cooked and local meals, wander the cities and explore the national parks.
Typically, a bed in a dorm in Estonia goes for about $8-$15 a night, and food costs range from $4-$15 daily.
Bus tickets only cost a few dollars, and activities are free or very inexpensive
Things to do in Estonia
- Visit national parks
Over half of Estonia is forested, which means there is a lot of natural beauty in this Baltic country. Some of the best national parks to explore are Lahemaa National Park and Soomaa National Park
You can actually visit Lahemaa National Park from Tallinn on a day trip
- Explore Tallinn
Tallinn is the capital of Estonia, and it has a vibrant nightlife. It's also fun to explore the Old Town, and check out the Gothic Town Hall
You'll find plenty of things to do in Tallinn so don't miss out on this place
- See castles
Estonia is full of awesome medieval castles. Toompea and Helme Castle are two of many that are worth paying a visit to.
22. Latvia
Latvia is a beautiful and affordable country, best known for its lovely beaches, castles, and forests.
There are so many great things to do in Latvia, and as an added bonus, it’s extremely affordable
I'd go as far to say that it's one of the best options in Europe if you're looking for cheap places to go on vacation
Cost of visiting Latvia. $40/day
For $40/day, you can easily travel around Latvia while staying in hostels, cooking, eating out for some meals, and exploring castles and dense, magical forests.
A bed in a dorm typically goes for about $8-$12/night, meals will cost about $12-$15 a day, and transportation costs less than $5 locally, and only $10-$15 for intercity rides
Some of the best things to do in Latvia are also free, like wandering around Riga, and exploring the forests, which is another reason why Latvia is such a budget friendly travel destination
Things to do in Latvia
- Explore the coffee shops in Riga’s Old Town
Riga is the capital of Latvia, and the Old Town is lovely with cobbled streets and painted houses.
The coffee in Riga is delicious, and sitting with a cup of coffee in the old town is a peaceful and inexpensive way to take in the sights
If you're looking to see the best of Riga then why not check out this private tour? You'll get to experience the city with a local guide
- Wander Gauja National Park
While there are a number of awesome national parks in Latvia, Gauja National Park is one of the best.
It’s also easy to explore, as it has plenty of walking trails suitable for all abilities.
- See Turaida Castle
Turaida Castle is nestled right in the middle of a dense forest, and it’s truly beautiful to visit. Plus, if you go in the fall, the leaves will be changing color and it will be that much more beautiful
23. Colombia
Colombia is one of the most colorful and exciting countries in the world to travel to
It’s also one of the cheapest travel destinations, and a small budget can go a long way there.
There are plenty of fantastic places to visit in Colombia so you'll want to spend at least a couple of weeks here. However, you want to exercise more caution when putting together an itinerary as some areas are known for having higher crime levels
Cost of visiting Colombia. $35/day
With a budget of $35/day, you can live pretty well in Colombia. That would be plenty of money to sleep in dorms, enjoy a mix of cooked meals and meals in restaurants, and enjoy some of the incredible beaches and cities Colombia has to offer.
Typically, a bed in a dorm goes for about $10/night, food costs range from $10-$15, and local transportation will only run on a few bucks to get around town, and $10-$15 for longer intercity trips
Things to do in Colombia
- Enjoy the beaches
Colombia has some of the nicest beaches in the Americas. Cartagena, and Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona have some incredible blue beaches with sparkling waters.
- Take a salsa class
Colombia has vibrant nightlife, and salsa dancing is one of the best things to do here.
- Trek to the Ciudad Perdida
Ciudad Perdida [Lost City] takes a dense, lush, tropical jungle multi-day hike to reach it, and the journey there is just as incredible as the destination
24. Bolivia
Bolivia is an affordable backpacking destination in South America that's not for the faint of heart
It’s chock full of breathtaking scenery, magnificent landscapes, and opportunities for adventure.
This makes it a great option if you're looking for cheap places to visit.
Here's a Bolivia itinerary to give you a rough idea of what's awaiting you in this magical country
Cost of visiting Bolivia. $35/night
$35/night in Bolivia is more than enough to get you a bed in a dorm, eat at local restaurants, take public transportation, and limit alcohol intake.
In Bolivia, a bed in a dorm room goes for about $10. You can get a full sit down meal at a local restaurant for less than $3, and most of the paid activities only cost $5-$10, with the exception of a visit to the Salt Flats, which starts at $87 USD
Things to do in Bolivia
- Visit the salt flats
The Bolivian Salt Flats are absolutely incredible. It’s the largest salt flat in the world, and is the remnants of a prehistoric lake
- Death Road bicycle trip
One of the most infamous and exciting things you can do in Bolivia is the Death Road bicycle trip. It’ll take you along for some jaw-dropping views, but with sheer ledges and drastic elevation changes, it is not for the faint of heart.
- Tiwanaku Ruins
Some scientists believe Tiwanaku Ruins are as old as 17,000 years, and housed up to 50,000 people. The archaeological site is incredibly interesting and worth a visit.
If you're staying in La Paz then there's a full-day archaeological tour that will take you there.
25. South Africa
Safaris, excellent hiking, and incredible beaches - the country of South Africa is spectacular, and one of the cheapest places to travel to.
Although flights can be expensive depending on where you're traveling from, once you're in the country your money will go far.
There are tons of incredible places to visit in South Africa so don't rush your time here
Cost of visiting South Africa. $40/day
On a budget of $40/day you can get a bed in a dorm, hike, and explore beaches while cooking most of your meals.
If you plan to get out in nature, and do a lot of free activities like hiking and surfing [if you have a board], your money will stretch a lot further
One of the most expensive yet worthwhile things to do in South Africa is take a safari, which starts at about $125/night
Things to do in South Africa
- Take a safari
If you want to see the “Big 5” [elephant, rhino, leopard, lion, African buffalo], you can do so on a South African Safari
- Surf
South Africa is really well known for its surfing scene. Cape Town and Jefferey’s Bay have some excellent surfing
- Explore Cape Town
Cape Town is a lively city with tons of music, restaurants, and a fun waterfront to explore. A great way to explore Cape Town is this sightseeing hop-on hop-off tour
26. Cuba
Cuba has pretty recently opened its doors for travelers to explore a perfectly preserved town with unique Cuban culture
It boasts some incredible beaches, and lively nightlife.
Not only that, but this country is one of the best options if you're looking for cheap places to vacation
You'll find tons of things to do in Cuba too so what are you waiting for?
Cost of visiting Cuba. $40/night
With $40/night you can sleep in dorms, enjoy local meals, and take public transportation. A lot of the best things to do in Cuba [like hit the beaches. ] are free, so your budget will go a long way as far as activities go
On average, a bed in a dorm costs $7-$15 in Cuba, groceries are inexpensive, and a meal in an inexpensive restaurant costs about $7
Things to do in Cuba
- Explore Havana
Havana has a rich culture, with plenty of old cars and colorful buildings to explore
- Vegas Grande Waterfall
A few-hour hike will reveal these awesome waterfalls
- Hit the beaches
Cuba has some beautiful beaches- some of the best to visit are Havana, Cayo Coco, and Playa Paraiso
27. Portugal
Portugal is a beautiful country in western Europe known for its wines, delicious foods, lovely beaches and quaint European cities
Unlike many other countries in western Europe, it happens to be fairly affordable to travel to.
Cost of visiting Portugal. $40/day
While a trip to Portugal can cost much much more, it can be visited on a budget of $40/day.
You just have to stick to dorm rooms, cook some meals, and take local transportation
In Portugal, dorms go for about $15/night, and with a food budget of $10-$15 you can enjoy a mix of cooked meals, and going out
Our top tip would be to rent a campervan in Portugal and explore the epic coastline for at least a couple weeks. This will cost more upfront, but you'll save money on transport and accommodation in the long run
Things to do in Portugal
- Go wine tasting in the Douro Valley
This is one of our favorite things to do in Portugal. The wine is delicious, and you learn so much about the process.
- Explore the Algarve
The Algarve is a beautiful region in Southern Portugal with some incredible beaches. Definitely a key part of any Portugal road trip
- Visit Sintra
The city of Sintra has some amazing castles to see, and it’s only an hour away from Lisbon, Portugal’s capital
If you don't have the time to stay there then you can also visit on a full-day tour from Lisbon
28. Panama
Panama has beautiful beaches, jungles, and a vibrant capital city. It’s a great place to visit, and one of the cheapest places to travel to
Here's a 2-week Panama itinerary to give you an idea of what this country has to offer
Cost of visiting Panama. $35/day
$35/night will be enough for a dorm room, a mix of cooking and local meals, local transportation, and will leave you with some leftovers for activities.
Panama is a pretty cheap country, and meals, drinks, and other activities are very affordable
Things to do in Panama
- Visit Bocas del Toro
These islands are gorgeous, affordable, and full of other backpackers to meet. If you've got the time then make sure you visit the islands of Bocas del Toro
- Visit a coffee plantation
Panama is known for its coffee, and a tour of a coffee plantation in Boquete is a great way to learn more about the crop, and taste some delicious coffee.
- Snorkel
Isla Coiba National Park has some awesome snorkeling
29. Costa Rica
Costa Rica is one of the safest places to visit in Latin America, and it’s home to beautiful beaches, the rainforest, and incredibly friendly locals
Whether you're looking to surf, spot wildlife, or try some delicious local food, you won't run out of things to do in Costa Rica
Cost of visiting Costa Rica. $40/day
While Costa Rica is more expensive than some of its neighbors like Guatemala and Nicaragua, it’s still a cheap place to travel to.
With a budget of $40/day, you can afford beds in nice dorms, tasty local casados and gallo pinto, and have plenty leftover for activities.
Things to do in Costa Rica
- Surf
Costa Rica has some of the best surfing in the world. If you’re a surfer, it’s worth bringing your board, and if not, you can always take a lesson, as it’s a great place to learn.
- Explore the cloud forest
The cloud forest is beautiful in Costa Rica, and a visit to Monteverde will allow you to explore it to your heart's content
If you're short on time then you can visit on a day trip from San Jose
- Visit Manuel Antonio National Park
Manuel Antonio National park is full of sloths, monkeys, exotic birds, and more. It’s one of the best places to see wildlife up close and personal in Costa Rica. It also neighbors some absolutely gorgeous beaches
30. Croatia
Croatia has sparkling blue waters, delicious seafood, and marvelous waterfalls- and is cheap to travel to.
For the best experience, you'll want to spend at last two weeks in this beautiful country or more if you have the time
Cost of visiting Croatia. $40/day
With a budget of $40/day, you’ll have enough money to sleep in dorms, eat local meals, and enjoy all the natural beauty Croatia has to offer.
On average, dorms in Croatia cost about $15/night. $10-$15/day on food will provide enough for groceries and eating out.
Things to do in Croatia
- Krka National Park
Krka National Park has some of the most stunning waterfalls in all of Europe. This day trip from Split also includes a boat ride
- See Dubrovnik
The city of Dubrovnik has classic European charm, and is a fun place to explore for a day or two
- Enjoy the ocean
Croatia has some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe, with absolutely STUNNING turquoise waters. In fact one of the best things to do in Split is to head over to Brac Island for a day or two
31. Morocco
Morocco is cheap to visit and also beautiful, and full of amazing natural landscapes, colorful unique cities, and lovely beaches.
You'll find tons of incredible places to visit in Morocco aside from its capital of Rabat, so this is a great place to explore - especially if you want your money to go far
This makes it a must for any travel bucket list.
Cost of visiting Morocco. $30/day
On a budget of $30/day, you can afford a bed in a hostel, meals from street stalls, limited drinking, and some budget activities.
On average, a bed in a dorm costs about $9/night, and most meals cost under $5.
Museums and other entrance fees typically cost less than $5 as well
Things to do in Morocco
- Explore Marrakech
We love Marrakech, and some of our favorite things to do there were to visit Saadian's tombs, take a city walking tour, and view The Koutoubia Mosque & Gardens. Or check out one of these awesome Marrakech day trips
- Wander Chefchaouen
This small city in the Rif mountains has vibrant blue streets and stairways, and can be visited on a day trip from Fez
- See the Sahara desert
Seeing the Sahara desert is definitely a bucket-list, must do activity in Morocco.
Which of these cheap places will you visit next?
That concludes our list of the best and cheapest places to visit this year.
I hope that this list has given you some trip planning inspiration, and showed you that traveling doesn’t have to be insanely expensive.
If you believe we’ve left anything out, or you know of some cheap vacation spots that you want to recommend, please drop a comment below.
Now over to you…
Which of these places will you travel to?
Let us know in the comments below
If you've enjoyed this lengthy travel guide then we've got plenty more where that came from [especially if you're on a budget]
- Venice on a Budget. The Complete Guide
- Where to Stay in Bali. No Matter What your Budget
- Norway on a Budget. How to Visit
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Some images courtesy of Deposit Photos
Bradley Williams
I'm an Economics graduate with a passion for travel. In 2016 I decided to ditch the office environment, work from my laptop and travel to every country in the world. You'll find me working out of a cafe in Bali, perhaps on a riverboat in Brazil or maybe even an airport lounge in New Delhi