Dreaming of far-flung adventures but worried about your budget? Fear not! In this post, we’re going to show you some of the most budget-friendly destinations around the world that offer incredible experiences without the hefty price tag. If you’ve been following us for awhile, you know we’re trying to travel on $100 a day. Except for a few places (we’re looking at you, Sydney Australia!) we’ve been able to stay pretty close to our budget. With a little planning, it’s possible to travel on a budget.
From hidden gems in Southeast Asia to affordable European cities and off-the-beaten-path destinations closer to home, these budget-friendly destinations are perfect for travelers looking to maximize their experiences while minimizing costs. Get ready to explore the world on a shoestring budget with these wallet-friendly travel destinations.
1. Southeast Asia:
Thailand: With its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine, Thailand is a budget traveler’s paradise. From the bustling streets of Bangkok to the idyllic islands of Koh Phi Phi and Koh Lanta, there’s something for everyone in this diverse country. Accommodation options range from budget guesthouses to beach bungalows, and street food vendors offer cheap and delicious meals. Don’t miss exploring the ancient temples of Ayutthaya or trekking through the lush jungles of Chiang Mai.
Accommodation: In Thailand, budget travelers can find comfortable guest houses or hostels for as little as $10-$20 per night. Mid-range hotels typically range from $30-$50 per night.
Food: Street food is a must in Thailand and incredibly affordable, with meals costing around $1-$3. Dining in a mid-range restaurant can cost $5-$15 per meal.
Activities: Visiting temples and markets is often free or very inexpensive, with entry fees typically under $5. Excursions like island hopping or cooking classes can range from $20-$50.
Transportation: Local transportation, such as tuk-tuks and buses, are very cheap, usually costing under $1 per ride. Long-distance travel by bus or train is also affordable, typically costing $10-$30.
Total Estimated Daily Budget: $30-$60 per person
Vietnam: Vietnam offers incredible value for money, with affordable accommodation, delicious street food, and a wealth of cultural experiences. Explore the chaotic streets of Hanoi, cruise through the stunning landscapes of Halong Bay, or trek through the terraced rice fields of Sapa. Don’t forget to indulge in a steaming bowl of pho or banh mi from a local street vendor—it’s the perfect way to experience the flavors of Vietnam without breaking the bank.
Accommodation: Budget accommodations like hostels and guesthouses in Vietnam cost between $5-$15 per night. Mid-range hotels are usually $20-$40 per night.
Food: Street food is delicious and very cheap, with dishes costing around $1-$2. Eating at a nice restaurant can cost between $5-$10 per meal.
Activities: Many cultural and historical sites charge minimal entry fees, often under $5. Organized tours, such as Halong Bay cruises, can cost between $20-$50.
Transportation: Local buses and motorbike taxis are very cheap, typically under $1 per ride. Intercity travel by bus or train can cost $10-$30.
Total Estimated Daily Budget: $25-$50 per person
Cambodia: Home to the iconic Angkor Wat temple complex, Cambodia is a budget traveler’s dream destination. Accommodation and food are incredibly affordable, and the country’s rich history and culture provide endless opportunities for exploration. Don’t miss exploring the bustling markets of Phnom Penh, relaxing on the pristine beaches of Sihanoukville, or experiencing rural life in the countryside around Battambang.
Accommodation: Hostels and budget guesthouses in Cambodia are very affordable, costing around $5-$15 per night. Mid-range hotels are typically $20-$40 per night.
Food: Street food and local restaurants offer meals for $1-$3, while dining at a mid-range restaurant costs around $5-$10 per meal.
Activities: Visiting the Angkor Wat temples is the most expensive activity, with a one-day pass costing $37. Other activities and entry fees are generally under $10.
Transportation: Local tuk-tuks and buses are very cheap, often under $1 per ride. Long-distance travel by bus is also affordable, ranging from $5-$15.
Total Estimated Daily Budget: $25-$45 per person
Bali: Bali combines affordability with stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and a vibrant culinary scene, making it an ideal destination for budget-conscious travelers seeking a tropical paradise. The island offers an incredible variety of experiences without the high costs typically associated with tropical getaways. From pristine beaches and lush rice terraces to vibrant markets and tranquil temples, there’s something for every type of traveler.
The cost of living in Bali is remarkably low compared to many other tourist destinations, allowing travelers to stretch their budgets further while still enjoying a high quality of life. Delicious and inexpensive local food, affordable transportation, and reasonably priced accommodations mean you can experience the best of Bali without spending a fortune. Additionally, Bali’s welcoming atmosphere and diverse range of activities, from yoga retreats and wellness centers to adventurous outdoor pursuits, provide ample opportunities for both relaxation and excitement, making it a versatile and budget-friendly destination. Whether you’re a backpacker looking to explore on a shoestring or a traveler seeking an affordable yet luxurious escape, Bali has it all.
Accommodation: Bali offers a wide range of budget-friendly accommodation options, from hostels and guesthouses costing $10-$20 per night to mid-range hotels at $30-$50 per night. For those seeking a more luxurious experience without breaking the bank, private villas can be found for around $50-$100 per night.
Food: Bali is a paradise for food lovers, with affordable local dishes available for $1-$3 at warungs (small family-owned restaurants). Dining at mid-range restaurants usually costs between $5-$15 per meal. Western-style cafes and restaurants are slightly more expensive but still reasonably priced.
Activities: Bali boasts a plethora of activities, many of which are budget-friendly. Exploring temples like Tanah Lot and Uluwatu typically costs $2-$5 in entrance fees. Outdoor activities, such as hiking Mount Batur, surfing, or visiting waterfalls, range from free to around $30 for guided tours.
Transportation: Renting a scooter is a popular and cost-effective way to get around Bali, costing around $5-$7 per day. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Gojek and Grab are also affordable, with short rides costing between $2-$5. For longer distances, hiring a private driver for a day can cost around $30-$50.
Total Estimated Daily Budget: $30-$60 per person
2. Europe:
Portugal: Portugal offers incredible value for money, with affordable accommodation, delicious food, and stunning scenery. Explore the historic streets of Lisbon, relax on the golden beaches of the Algarve, or sample the world-famous port wine in Porto. Don’t miss visiting the picturesque towns of Sintra and Obidos or hiking through the rugged landscapes of the Douro Valley.
Accommodation: In Portugal, budget accommodations like hostels cost between $15-$30 per night. Mid-range hotels range from $50-$80 per night.
Food: Eating at local cafes and tascas (traditional restaurants) costs about $5-$10 per meal. Dining at a mid-range restaurant can cost between $10-$20 per meal.
Activities: Many museums and attractions have entry fees of $5-$10. Outdoor activities like hiking are often free, while organized tours can cost $20-$50.
Transportation: Public transportation is reliable and affordable, with metro and bus tickets costing around $1-$3. Intercity buses and trains can cost $20-$40.
Total Estimated Daily Budget: $40-$70 per person
Hungary: Hungary’s capital, Budapest, is often hailed as one of Europe’s most budget-friendly cities. With its grand architecture, thermal baths, and vibrant nightlife, there’s plenty to see and do without spending a fortune. Explore the historic Buda Castle, soak in the healing waters of the Széchenyi Thermal Bath, or take a scenic cruise along the Danube River. Don’t forget to indulge in a hearty bowl of goulash or langos from a local market stall—it’s the perfect way to experience Hungarian cuisine on a budget.
Accommodation: Budget travelers can find hostels for $10-$20 per night in Hungary. Mid-range hotels typically cost $40-$70 per night.
Food: Eating at local eateries and markets costs about $5-$10 per meal. Dining at a mid-range restaurant can cost $10-$20 per meal.
Activities: Entry fees for museums and historical sites are generally around $5-$10. Thermal baths, a must-do in Hungary, cost between $15-$25.
Transportation: Public transportation in cities is affordable, with tickets costing around $1-$2. Long-distance buses and trains are also reasonably priced, usually $10-$20.
Total Estimated Daily Budget: $35-$60 per person
Greece: While some parts of Greece can be expensive, there are plenty of budget-friendly destinations to explore. Head to the island of Crete for stunning beaches, charming villages, and delicious Greek cuisine. Alternatively, explore the historic streets of Athens, visit the ancient ruins of Delphi, or hike through the rugged landscapes of Meteora. Don’t miss sampling traditional Greek dishes like moussaka, souvlaki, and baklava from local tavernas—it’s a culinary experience you won’t soon forget.
Accommodation: In Greece, budget accommodations like hostels cost $15-$30 per night. Mid-range hotels are typically $40-$70 per night.
Food: Street food and casual dining options cost around $5-$10 per meal. Dining at a mid-range restaurant costs $10-$20 per meal.
Activities: Entry fees to historical sites like the Acropolis are around $10-$20. Beach access is usually free, but organized tours can cost $30-$50.
Transportation: Public transportation is cheap, with bus and metro tickets costing $1-$3. Ferries between islands can vary, usually between $20-$50.
Total Estimated Daily Budget: $40-$70 per person
3. Off-the-Beaten-Path Destinations:
Nicaragua: While neighboring Costa Rica often steals the spotlight, Nicaragua offers incredible value for money and fewer crowds. Explore the colonial streets of Granada, surf the waves in San Juan del Sur, or hike through the cloud forests of Matagalpa. Accommodation and food are incredibly affordable, and the country’s natural beauty and rich culture provide endless opportunities for exploration.
Accommodation: Budget accommodations in Nicaragua, such as hostels, cost $5-$15 per night. Mid-range hotels typically range from $30-$50 per night.
Food: Local meals are very cheap, costing around $2-$5. Dining at a nicer restaurant costs $10-$15 per meal.
Activities: Many activities, such as visiting volcanoes and beaches, are low-cost or free. Organized tours, like volcano boarding, can cost $20-$30.
Transportation: Local buses, known as “chicken buses,” are very cheap, often costing under $1 per ride. Long-distance bus travel is also affordable, usually $5-$15.
Total Estimated Daily Budget: $25-$45 per person
Romania: Romania is an underrated gem in Eastern Europe, offering stunning landscapes, historic castles, and vibrant cities—all at a fraction of the cost of more popular destinations. Explore the medieval streets of Brasov, visit the legendary Bran Castle, or hike through the dramatic landscapes of Transylvania. Accommodation and food are incredibly affordable, and the country’s warm hospitality and rich cultural heritage make it a budget traveler’s dream destination.
Accommodation: In Romania, budget accommodations such as hostels cost $10-$20 per night. Mid-range hotels typically range from $30-$50 per night.
Food: Local meals are affordable, with costs around $5-$10. Dining at a mid-range restaurant costs $10-$20 per meal.
Activities: Many cultural sites and museums have entry fees around $5-$10. Outdoor activities like hiking in the Carpathians are often free.
Transportation: Public transportation is affordable, with tickets costing $1-$2. Long-distance buses and trains are reasonably priced, usually $10-$20.
Total Estimated Daily Budget: $30-$50 per person
Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing quality or missing out on incredible experiences. With a little planning and creativity, you can explore the world without breaking the bank. Whether you’re exploring the stunning beaches of Southeast Asia, sampling delicious cuisine in Europe, or venturing off the beaten path to lesser-known destinations, there’s a budget-friendly adventure waiting for you. So pack your bags, grab your passport, and get ready to explore the world on a shoestring budget—your next adventure awaits!
About the Author: Hey there, fellow adventurers! We’re Shayne & Shelly, passionate travelers on a mission to explore the world without breaking the bank. With a love for adventure and a knack for finding budget-friendly travel options, we aim to share our passion for travel and help fellow wanderers make the most of their adventures without breaking the bank. From insider tips on finding affordable accommodation and scoring cheap flights to destination guides highlighting budget-friendly destinations, our goal is to inspire and empower others to explore the world on a shoestring budget.
