The stress of life can be relentless, and many people are constantly holding out until their next vacation. However, vacationing can be another stressor when you start researching hotel prices. Your trip immediately becomes less enjoyable when your bank account is depleted. Rather than skip out on your much-needed vacation, choose one of the more affordable destinations.
Believe it or not, there are plenty of hidden gems throughout the world where you can have a once-in-a-lifetime experience without emptying your savings account.
1. Bali, Indonesia
Indonesia has always been an affordable place to vacation, but currency exchange rates make it even cheaper these days. Specifically, Bali is a dream location for many, with picturesque beaches, mountain views, and friendly locals. It’s a charming place for a peaceful getaway.
2. Placencia, Belize
Belize is one of the most beautiful places in the world, and it’s surprisingly cheap to visit. This quaint country has some of the most incredible beaches, with welcoming people and a laidback vibe. Placencia is a village in Belize with a Caribbean resort vibe at a wonderfully low rate.
3. Marrakesh, Morocco
If you want an unforgettable trip, Marrakesh, Morocco, is a sensational holiday destination. This bustling city is spirited, with open-air markets and intricate architecture. The colorful atmosphere is invigorating, and there’s plenty of rich history here to learn about.
4. Colombo, Sri Lanka
Colombo is the country’s capital and has a lavish aura with luxurious hotels, high-end restaurants, and more. While the experience is opulent, the price tags are not. You can stay in an awe-inspiring hotel and live like royalty, even when traveling on a budget.
5. Dalyan, Turkey
Turkey has several marvelous and affordable places you can enjoy for a week, but one of our top picks is Dalyan, Turkey. Daylan has a slow-paced vibe, but the beauty and culture in this area are exquisite. Enjoy natural mud baths, soft beaches, and ancient tombs.
6. Lisbon, Portugal
While much of the world deals with relentless inflation, Portugal’s prices have stayed the same, and the economy is stable. This wallet-friendly nation offers delicious tapas, fun nightlife, stunning hotels, and more for a fraction of what you’d pay in other cities.
7. Serrekunda, Gambia
Serrekunda, Gambia, is a bustling urban area with plenty to do. This African nation is home to idyllic beaches, exciting marketplaces, lively restaurants, and much more. It’s an excellent place to immerse yourself in a new culture and connect with the playful wildlife.
8. Tallinn, Estonia
For foodies traveling on a budget, Tallinn might be the perfect place to vacation. This area has some of the highest-rated restaurants in Europe, serving a variety of cuisines that will impress anyone. The charming city is shockingly affordable for the level of luxury you can enjoy there.
9. Ohrid, Macedonia
We also recommend Skopje, the capital of Macedonia, but Ohrid is a dazzling place with an expansive lake. This city has medieval fortresses, cozy beaches, historic churches, and more to see. Despite these attractions, tourism here is mild, and the prices are low.
10. Montego Bay, Jamaica
Many consider Jamaica the best place for an affordable but unforgettable vacation. Everything is cheaper than expected, including hotels, restaurants, boat rentals, island tours, scuba diving, snorkeling, and other excursions. We recommend Montego Bay, but you’ll have an incredible trip in most spots around the country.
11. Brasov, Romania
Romania is a painfully underrated vacation destination with gorgeous monasteries, churches, baroque buildings, and more. Brasov is a particularly lovely area, with welcoming cafes and colorful architecture against the backdrop of the Carpathian Mountains—and the hotel and food prices are wonderfully low.
12. La Paz, Bolivia
La Paz is the scenic capital of Bolivia and has much to offer visitors on a tight budget. The city sits on the Andes’ Altiplano plateau, about 11,500 feet above sea level, giving you spectacular views of the country. It’s the perfect destination for adventurous and frugal travelers.
13. Mombasa, Kenya
Many people travel to the heart of Kenya for the thrilling jungle safaris, so the country’s beach tourism is not as prominent. You can take advantage of this and enjoy a relaxing and cheap vacation in Mombasa, a coastal city with elegant architecture and irresistible beaches.
14. Luang Prabang, Laos
Luang Prabang is one of the most breathtaking cities in the world and is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. Laos does not have a substantial tourism industry, with a rural vibe and miles of lush forests. It’s ideal for outdoorsy people looking to save money on their holiday.
15. Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town is easily one of the most popular destinations in Africa, but it’s also astonishingly affordable. This South African city is safe and cheap, with free attractions, low cab fares, special restaurant deals, and more. You’ll be amazed by the money you can save here when you look for discounts.
16. Iguazu, Argentina
Argentina has majestic wildlife, roaring waterfalls, and vivacious forests, making it look like paradise. Buenos Aires is somewhat of a tourist hotspot, but the waterfall-rich region of Iguazu is much more peaceful and affordable. The sightseeing and culture here are magnificent and tranquil.
17. Havana, Cuba
The capital of Cuba is simply enchanting, with Spanish colonial architecture, aqua-blue buildings, mouthwatering food, and friendly locals. There are pricey hotels and restaurants, but if you look closely, you’ll find high-quality amenities at low prices, so avoid chain hotels and stick to mom-and-pop spots.
18. Boracay, Philippines
The Philippines has over 7,000 tropical islands, so finding a remarkable place to unwind and dip your toes in the water is easy. Places like Manila can be costly, but Boracay is a hidden gem with white beaches, mountain views, and a laid-back resort atmosphere.
19. Chiang Mai, Thailand
Chiang Mai, Thailand, is a haven for budget travelers. It’s the largest city in northern Thailand, with dazzling Buddhist temples, antique architecture, and a peaceful atmosphere. It’s an extraordinary place to experience Thai culture and enjoy staggeringly beautiful mountain views.
20. Hoi An, Vietnam
Much of Vietnam is affordable, but Hoi An is ideal for frugal folks. Almost everything here is cheap, including beer, coffee, hotels, moped rentals, clothing, restaurants, and more. You can afford a luxury hotel on your next trip with the money you save here.
21. Tirran, Albania
When people think of their dream vacation, they don’t usually think of Albania. Many people consider Eastern Europe cheap, but Albania makes its neighbors look wildly expensive. This country is affordable but offers pastel architecture, charming bistros, fascinating museums, and more.
22. Jaipur, India
Not every part of India is affordable or desirable, but Jaipur might be one of the best destinations in the world. Also known as the Pink City, Jaipur shines with lavish buildings, impeccable architecture, thriving gardens, and a royal energy, all at a low price. The food across the country is fabulous, and the locals are kind to visitors.
23. Kathmandu, Nepal
For mountain trekkers on a budget, it doesn’t get better than Kathmandu. If you’re up for a snowy adventure, you can stay for days in Kathmandu and spend very little. This capital city is simultaneously calm and exciting, with a slow-paced atmosphere but no shortage of activities.
24. Arinsal, Andorra
Arinsal is one of the ultimate hidden gems of the world. It’s a tiny village in Andorra between France and Spain and offers superb skiing and snowboarding. While many European ski spots are expensive, Arinsal is miraculously cheap, especially for families who want to hit the slopes without hitting the ATM every five minutes.
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