12 Cheap Places to Travel That Are Worth It

Let’s be real, traveling on a budget isn’t always easy, especially in 2025. But that doesn’t mean it’s out of reach. Whether you’re saving for something bigger or just tired of seeing your travel dreams sit on hold, there are places where your money can take you far.

We have a few suggestions that we think you should explore! Here are 15 cheap places to travel in 2025 that are not only affordable but absolutely worth your time.

1. Mexico City, Mexico

Average daily budget: $35–$60
Best time to go: March to May (pleasant weather, fewer crowds)

Mexico City is a foodie’s dream and one of the best value destinations in North America. Street tacos? Around $1. Local buses and the metro? About $0.25 per ride. You can stay in a decent hotel or Airbnb for under $40/night.

What makes it great: Art, architecture, amazing food, and low costs in a huge, vibrant city.

2. Lisbon, Portugal

Average daily budget: $50–$80
Best time to go: April to June or September to October (mild temps, fewer tourists)

Lisbon gives you old-world Europe with a much smaller price tag. Public trams and trains are under $2, and a full meal at a local tasca might run $10–$15. Hostel beds start at $20, and private rooms or budget hotels are often under $60.

What makes it great: Historic charm, coastal views, and super affordable compared to most of Western Europe.

3. Hoi An, Vietnam

Average daily budget: $25–$40
Best time to go: February to April (dry season, cooler temps)

Hoi An is one of those places where your money stretches like crazy. Need clothes? You can get custom-made outfits for less than you'd spend at the mall back home. Meals cost around $1–$3, and the vibe is peaceful, walkable, and full of charm. Bonus: beaches are nearby, and bike rentals are just a few dollars a day.

What makes it great: Beautiful lantern-lit streets, cheap local eats, custom clothing, and a peaceful pace.

4. Budapest, Hungary

Average daily budget: $35–$60
Best time to go: May to early October (great weather, outdoor festivals)

Want a beautiful European city that doesn’t destroy your travel budget? Budapest is it. You can soak in natural hot springs, cruise the Danube, explore historic castles, and still have money left over for dinner (which, by the way, is usually under $10). Hostels, budget hotels, and even some Airbnb options are very doable price-wise.

What makes it great: Thermal baths, castles, river cruises, and prices that let you say yes to everything.

5. La Paz, Bolivia

Average daily budget: $20–$35

Best time to go: May to October (dry season)

La Paz is not your average destination, but if you're craving adventure and you’re working with a limited budget, it’s a gem. It’s cheap, high up in the Andes, and full of character. Local transportation is incredibly affordable (they have a city-wide cable car!), and meals will run you just a couple of dollars. Don’t miss the chance to visit the salt flats while you’re there.

What makes it great: Surreal landscapes, cable cars for public transport, and ultra-cheap cost of living.

6. Krakow, Poland

Average daily budget: $30–$50
Best time to go: April to June or September (mild weather, lower prices)

If you want Europe without the European prices, Krakow should be on your list. It’s beautiful, welcoming, and affordable. You can explore the Old Town, take a tour of Auschwitz, and enjoy hearty meals for cheap. Hostels and guesthouses are everywhere, and most are really well kept.

What makes it great: Historic city squares, budget-friendly tours, and cozy cafés that won’t break your budget.

7. Bali, Indonesia

Average daily budget: $25–$50
Best time to go: April to October (dry season)

Yes, Bali can be expensive, but it doesn't have to be. If you skip the luxury resorts and stick to places like Ubud or Sidemen, you’ll find cheap accommodations, affordable food, and plenty of nature to enjoy for free. It’s great if you’re looking to slow down, recharge, and not spend much in the process.

What makes it great: Nature, spirituality, beaches, and big value if you avoid the tourist-heavy spots.

8. Sofia, Bulgaria

Average daily budget: $25–$45
Best time to go: May to September

Bulgaria might not be at the top of your list, but that’s exactly why it’s so budget-friendly. Sofia has a mix of old ruins, colorful churches, and great food, all at prices that’ll surprise you (in a good way). It’s a solid choice if you want something unique and affordable in Europe.

What makes it great: A relaxed, authentic European vibe, without the crowds or the cost.

9. Medellín, Colombia

Average daily budget: $30–$50
Best time to go: December to March (dry season)

If you're craving great weather, friendly people, and a city with serious energy, Medellín delivers. It's warm year-round, the metro system is clean and cheap, and meals at local restaurants often cost less than $5. It’s also one of the most affordable cities in Latin America for longer stays.

What makes it great: Warm weather, a buzzing city atmosphere, and big-city experiences on a small budget.

10. Thessaloniki, Greece

Average daily budget: $35–$55
Best time to go: May, June, or September (warm but not peak tourist season)

Love the idea of Greece, but can’t swing Mykonos prices? Thessaloniki gives you everything you love about the country, beautiful coastlines, Greek food, and history, but at a fraction of the cost. It’s a more local vibe, and that’s exactly why it’s great for budget travelers.

What makes it great: Seaside views, incredible street food, and rich history, without the crowds (or prices) of the Greek islands.

11. Tbilisi, Georgia

Average daily budget: $25–$45
Best time to go: May to June or September to October

Tbilisi is one of those places that feels totally underrated and completely affordable. Wine is a huge part of the culture (and cheap), the people are kind, and the city has a creative, artsy vibe. You’ll find budget-friendly hostels, guesthouses, and homemade meals that feel more like a warm welcome than a transaction.

What makes it great: Warm hospitality, ancient-meets-modern charm, and some of the best (and cheapest) wine in the world.

12. Puerto Escondido, Mexico

Average daily budget: $30–$50
Best time to go: November to April (dry season)

Need a chill beach getaway without resort prices? Puerto Escondido is perfect. It’s laid-back, surfy, and still relatively untouched compared to touristy spots like Cancun. You can find beach bungalows, eat street food, and watch sunsets for free. What more do you need?

What makes it great: A relaxed surf town vibe, stunning beaches, and sunset views, all without the overpriced resort scene.

Final Thoughts: Travel Is Possible, Even When You’re On a Budget

Let’s be honest, prices are up, the economy’s unpredictable, and it can feel like travel is only for people with huge budgets. But that’s just not true. Life keeps moving, and you deserve to experience it, not just watch it from home.

The 15 cheap places to travel we’ve covered prove that you don’t need a luxury-level income to explore amazing destinations. Whether you want to walk through centuries-old streets, unwind on a quiet beach, or eat your way through local markets, there’s a budget-friendly spot out there waiting for you.

So if you’ve been putting off a trip because of money, let this be your sign: it’s possible, and totally worth it. Go make some memories. You won’t regret it.

FAQs About Cheap Places to Travel

1. What is the cheapest place to travel to?

It depends on where you’re starting from, but places like Hoi An (Vietnam), La Paz (Bolivia), and Tbilisi (Georgia) consistently rank as some of the most affordable destinations worldwide. These cities offer low daily costs, budget-friendly meals, and affordable accommodations, often under $30–$40 per day.

2. Can you go on a trip with $500?

Yes, absolutely, but you’ll need to plan smart. Stick to nearby destinations to save on airfare, travel during the off-season, and consider hostels, couchsurfing, or budget Airbnbs. A $500 budget could cover a 3–5 day domestic trip, or even a week in a low-cost international destination like Mexico or Southeast Asia (if you score a cheap flight).

3. What is the cheapest vacation month?

Generally, January and September are some of the cheapest months to travel. These fall outside of major holidays and peak travel seasons, which means lower prices on flights and hotels. Plus, you’ll avoid the big crowds.

4. How do I find cheap flights for budget travel?

Use flight comparison tools like Google Flights, Skyscanner, or Hopper, and be flexible with your travel dates. Flying mid-week (like Tuesday or Wednesday), booking 1–3 months in advance, and considering nearby airports can all help you find deals.

5. What are the best tips for traveling on a budget?

A few simple tricks go a long way:

• Travel off-season
• Eat where locals eat (not tourist spots)
• Use public transportation
• Book longer stays for discounts
• Prioritize experiences over expensive souvenirs

Budget travel isn’t about cutting corners; it’s about making smarter choices so you can do more with less.