15 Best Places to Travel Internationally on a Budget

Last Updated: March 05, 2025

Tweet

Key Takeaways:

Destination	What’s Inside?
Mexico	- Offers budget-friendly street food (e.g., tacos al pastor) and cheap local buses (ADO). - Markets, beaches, and historical sites can be enjoyed without straining finances.
Guatemala	- Affordable lodging in hostels/guesthouses, and “chicken buses” keep travel costs low. - Must-sees: Antigua’s colonial charm, Lake Atitlán’s scenery, and Tikal’s Mayan ruins.
Portugal	- Inexpensive local bites (bifanas, pastries) and the Lisboa Card for discounts. - Travel off-peak for better deals on flights and accommodations.
Thailand	- Renowned for cheap street eats and domestic budget flights. - Bangkok’s bustling markets, Chiang Mai’s temples, and tranquil islands are highlights.
Morocco	- Marrakech’s souks, Chefchaouen’s blue streets, and Fes’ medina enchant visitors. - Tasty local cuisine (e.g., tagine) at reasonable prices.
Greece	- Shoulder-season travel cuts costs and crowds; lesser-known islands are more affordable. - Ancient ruins, Santorini’s volcanic beaches, and local tavernas highlight Greek charm.
Peru	- Book Machu Picchu tickets early for better rates; market meals keep food expenses low. - Cusco, Lima, and Arequipa each offer cultural and historical depth.
Nepal	- Trekking and cultural sites are accessible for budget travelers. - Himalayan views, temples, and local traditions create a unique journey.
Sri Lanka	- Cheap accommodation (guesthouses/homestays) and economical public transport. - Ancient temples, scenic hill stations, and coastal charm cater to all tastes.

And, more to explore below,

Are you looking for travel experiences without surrendering your entire savings? For your delight cheap vacation destinations exist, and in great abundance. With the right approach, you can travel, immerse yourself in new cultures, and bring back cherished memories without emptying your wallet.

Below, discover fourteen tourist attractions around the world where vibrant cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and sunny escapes go hand in hand with savings.

Whether you crave relaxing on pristine beaches, exploring lively cities, or marveling at awe-inspiring historical sites, these places prove that traveling far away isn’t just reserved for the deepest pockets.

1. Mexico

Mexico offers stunning beaches, rich cultural heritage, and surprisingly affordable food and accommodations. If you’re looking to soak up history and flavor, make sure to explore Oaxaca, Mexico City, Guanajuato, or Tulum, where street food stalls serve authentic meals at low prices.

Transportation is also budget-friendly, especially if you rely on local buses like ADO. From savoring traditional Mexican dishes such as tacos al pastor to strolling colorful markets, Mexico shows that you can indulge in dream-like adventures without straining your finances.

2. Guatemala

Volcanic landscapes, ancient Mayan ruins, and colorful markets await you in Guatemala. Places like Antigua, Lake Atitlán, and Tikal provide budget-friendly adventures, with hostels and guesthouses offering cheap yet comfortable lodging.

For transportation, hop on the famous “chicken buses” to truly experience the local vibe. These rides are not only an economical way to see the countryside but also a fantastic chance to connect with friendly locals and immerse yourself in traditional culture.

3. Colombia

On average, travelers in Colombia can budget around €30 per day. Accommodation ranges from low-cost hostel dorms (around ten euros) to more upscale rooms if you want extra comfort. Whether you’re exploring the vibrant streets of Cartagena, sipping coffee in Salento, or enjoying the lively scene in Medellín, you’ll find that Colombia welcomes you with open arms and a warm spirit.

Food can be incredibly cheap, particularly when sampling street eats. Local buses and short-haul flights within the country are often affordable, making it easier to wander from the sunny Caribbean coast to the lush coffee regions nestled in the mountains.

4. Portugal

Portugal is brimming with picturesque corners, from the steep hills of Lisbon to the dreamy banks of Porto and the sun-kissed Algarve region. Prices remain surprisingly accessible, and you can keep costs in check by enjoying bifanas (pork sandwiches) or local pastries instead of splurging on high-end dining.

Lisbon itself bursts with color and history. Use the Lisboa Card for free or reduced entry to museums and unlimited public transport. If you prefer more flexibility in your itinerary, guided tours often bundle tickets and tastings together so you can get a full cultural immersion without overspending.

5. Vietnam

Vietnam’s combination of scenic landscapes, mouthwatering street food, and rich history has won the hearts of budget travelers worldwide. In cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh, hostels and street vendors help you stretch your funds while diving into authentic local culture.

You can explore Hoi An, wander through the ancient alleys, and hop on a bus or train for a few dollars to reach iconic Ha Long Bay. Street food like bánh mì or phở usually costs just a couple of euros, ensuring your taste buds are as satisfied as your travel budget.

6. Thailand

Thailand is celebrated for its beautiful temples, bustling markets, and tranquil beaches. From Bangkok’s neon-lit streets to Chiang Mai’s serene elephant sanctuaries, there’s something for every kind of traveler.

Local food stalls and budget airlines within the country allow you to travel Thailand smartly while still experiencing the uniqueness of Thai culture. Whether you’re island-hopping in Krabi or exploring the temples up north, Thailand teaches you that unforgettable experiences don’t have to be expensive.

7. Indonesia (Bali)

In Indonesia, especially around Bali, you’ll find guesthouses for just a few euros a night, flavorful meals for a couple of dollars, and temples with entry fees that fit nicely into a tight budget. The island itself is brimming with natural wonders, from lush rice terraces in Ubud to the picturesque shores of Nusa Penida.

If you want extra freedom, rent a scooter for roughly 5 euros a day to explore hidden gems and less touristic corners. Adventurous souls often opt for climbs like Mount Batur, and the trek itself can be surprisingly affordable for an experience that rewards you with dazzling sunrise panoramas.

8. Morocco

Morocco brims with cultural and sensory delights. The bustling souks, ornate palaces, and lively squares of cities like Marrakech, Chefchaouen, or Fes create an enchanting atmosphere, one that remains budget-friendly if you shop around for good deals.

Staying in a traditional riad provides a memorable sense of local life. Make sure to bargain in markets; it’s part of the culture and can help you stretch your travel budget further, ensuring you savor every intricate tile detail and aroma of spiced tagine without worrying about your wallet.

9. Greece

Greece has ancient ruins, postcard-perfect islands, and a mouthwatering food scene. Traveling in the shoulder season (spring or fall) means cheaper flights, more reasonably priced accommodations, and fewer crowds at famous sites like the Acropolis or the black-sand beaches of Santorini.

Consider exploring lesser-known islands like Naxos or diving into Athens’ historical neighborhoods. Wherever you roam, you’ll uncover a treasure-trove of Mediterranean flavors, like spanakopita or souvlaki, that come at wallet-friendly costs when you’re off the typical tourist trail.

10. Peru

Peru calls out to travelers with its majestic Andes, captivating Inca history, and vibrant local cultures. While Machu Picchu is the star attraction, the cities of Cusco, Lima, and Arequipa also deliver on heritage and affordability.

Scheduling trains or trekking permits in advance for Machu Picchu can help you snag lower prices. Pair that with budget-friendly market eats, such as a hearty plate of lomo saltado, and you’ll see how Peru seamlessly mixes epic adventure and wallet-conscious planning.

11. Hungary (Budapest)

Hungary’s capital, Budapest, stands out for its thermal baths, grand architecture, and spirited nightlife. You can easily traverse the city by public transport or on foot, taking in the Chain Bridge, the Great Synagogue, and the iconic Parliament building that presides over the Danube.

Meals like goulash are both delicious and affordable, and you can often find hotels or hostels at very reasonable rates. Whether you soak in one of the many thermal springs or explore the Buda Castle district, Hungary’s charm proves that culture and savings can go hand in hand.

12. Nepal

Nepal is an affordable destination for travelers from the USA or Europe due to a favorable exchange rate and low cost of living. The Nepalese Rupee (NPR) has a lower value compared to the US Dollar or Euro, allowing travelers to stretch their budget further. This means accommodations, food, and transportation are significantly cheaper than in the USA. Budget-friendly options like guesthouses, local eateries, and public transport make it easy to explore without spending much.

Additionally, many of Nepal's popular activities, such as trekking and visiting cultural sites, are accessible on a budget. While high-end adventures like Everest expeditions can be costly, there are plenty of affordable alternatives. The combination of a strong US dollar or Euro and Nepal's low expenses creates a budget-friendly experience for travelers seeking adventure and cultural immersion without breaking the bank.

13. Bulgaria

Bulgaria, with its capital Sofia, remains an underrated gem for budget explorers. Low accommodation costs, hearty meals at around 5 euros, and an abundance of cultural sites make it a top choice if you’re looking for an authentic Eastern European experience.

Outside the city, the Black Sea coast welcomes you with sunny beaches and lively nightlife, while the mountains cater to winter adventurers with ski slopes at places like Bansko. Wherever you choose to go, expect a warm welcome and refreshingly low prices.

14. Cambodia

Cambodia invites travelers to discover its stunning Angkor temples, vibrant cities like Siem Reap, and the bustling energy of Phnom Penh, often on as little as €25 a day. Food, accommodation, and transport are incredibly affordable, with hostel dorms for around €6 and flavorful local dishes for just a few euros.

While plane tickets might be pricier from certain parts of the world, the balance quickly tips in your favor once you’re on the ground. Whether you’re exploring the Bayon temple or glimpsing the giant Angkor Wat at sunrise, Cambodia delivers a magical adventure that won’t break your bank.

14. Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is an affordable destination for travelers with a diverse range of budget-friendly options. Accommodation choices, such as guesthouses and homestays, are inexpensive and often include meals, while local transportation like buses and trains is highly economical.

Sri Lankan foods are both delicious and affordable. Key attractions like ancient temples, wildlife parks, and scenic beaches can be enjoyed at reasonable costs, and activities such as hiking in the hills are cheap.

Exploring Sri Lanka comes with all budgets, offering affordable transportation, dining, and activities. Traveling during the off-season, when prices are lower due to varying monsoon patterns of Sri Lanka, can further reduce costs. With its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and delicious food, Sri Lanka provides exceptional value, making it an ideal destination for frugal travelers.

FAQs

How can I travel cheaply to these destinations?

Choose low-cost carriers, use public transport, and stay in budget accommodations like hostels or guesthouses.

Which places have the most affordable meals?

Mexico, Vietnam, and Thailand are known for cheap, delicious street food that helps keep dining expenses low.

What’s the best time to visit on a budget?

Travel during off-peak or shoulder seasons to snag cheaper flights and enjoy fewer crowds.

How do I save on accommodations?

Opt for hostels, homestays, or guesthouses, and book early to secure discounted rates.

Are these destinations safe for solo travelers?

They’re generally safe, but stay aware of local advisories, keep your belongings secure, and respect cultural norms.

Conclusion

Traveling the world doesn’t have to bankrupt you. By focusing on destinations where the cost of living is lower and local experiences are abundant, you can connect with vibrant cultures and build lasting memories, while keeping an eye on your expenses.

We hope that the information we provided will be helpful to pick your best budget destination for you where you can immerse yourself fully, savoring every dish, every conversation, and every new place without compromising your finances.