If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably spent more time than you’d like to admit daydreaming about sipping coconut water on a tropical beach or strolling through charming European streets. But then reality hits... that bank account balance isn’t exactly “vacation ready.”
Here’s the good news—you don’t need a massive budget to explore dreamy destinations! I’ve put together a list of gorgeous places you can totally afford, so go ahead and start packing (mentally, at least!).
1. Tulum, Mexico
Tulum is what Instagram dreams are made of—white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and laid-back vibes. You can find cozy hostels or Airbnbs for under $50 a night, and honestly, street tacos here taste better than most fancy meals! Spend your days biking around town, exploring cenotes (those magical underwater caves), and watching the sunset over the beach. Oh, and don’t skip the Mayan ruins right by the ocean—it’s the perfect budget-friendly day trip!
Top Things to Do:
Visit the Tulum Ruins overlooking the sea
Explore Gran Cenote or Cenote Calavera
Relax on Playa Paraiso Beach
Bike around town and explore cute local shops
Grab street tacos from a local food stand
2. Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon is full of colorful streets, amazing food, and a whole lot of history. Public transportation is super cheap, and you can grab a delicious pastel de nata (trust me, you’ll want more than one) for less than a dollar. Take a tram ride through the hilly streets or head up to one of the many lookout points for the best city views. Many museums offer free entry on certain days, so keep an eye out for deals!
Top Things to Do:
Ride the famous Tram 28 through historic neighborhoods
Visit the Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery
Try pastéis de nata at Pastéis de Belém
Explore the Alfama district’s narrow streets and fado music
Watch the sunset from Miradouro da Senhora do Monte
3. Savannah, Georgia (USA)
Want some serious Southern charm? Savannah’s cobblestone streets and beautiful squares are perfect for exploring on foot. Bonus—it’s packed with free things to do, like wandering through Forsyth Park or checking out the historic district. Grab a sweet tea, stroll along River Street, and soak up the old-world charm. If you’re into spooky stories, Savannah is famous for its haunted history—some of the ghost tours are super affordable and a lot of fun!
Top Things to Do:
Wander through Forsyth Park and take photos at the iconic fountain
Explore the historic district and beautiful old homes
Stroll along River Street for shopping and river views
Take a budget-friendly ghost tour
Visit Bonaventure Cemetery for a peaceful (and slightly eerie) walk
4. Bali, Indonesia
Ah, Bali. The ultimate tropical escape that won’t empty your wallet. You can easily find budget-friendly villas with pools (yes, really!), and don’t even get me started on the $10 massages. Spend your days relaxing on gorgeous beaches, visiting peaceful temples, or chasing waterfalls in Ubud. And if you’re feeling adventurous, take a sunrise hike up Mount Batur—it’s tough, but the views are totally worth it!
Top Things to Do:
Watch the sunset at Tanah Lot Temple
Visit the stunning Tegallalang Rice Terraces
Explore Ubud’s art markets and Monkey Forest
Hike Mount Batur for sunrise views
Relax on the beaches of Seminyak or Uluwatu
5. Budapest, Hungary
This city is a total fairytale with its stunning architecture and magical thermal baths. Plus, a hearty Hungarian meal costs less than your average fast-food combo back home! Don’t miss the iconic Chain Bridge and the beautiful Fisherman’s Bastion for incredible views. And if you’re into relaxing, grab a day pass to the famous Széchenyi Thermal Baths—lounging in warm pools under open skies is pretty unforgettable.
Top Things to Do:
Soak in the Széchenyi Thermal Baths
Walk across the Chain Bridge for amazing views
Explore Fisherman’s Bastion (perfect photo spot!)
Stroll along the Danube River at night
Visit ruin bars like Szimpla Kert for a unique night out
6. Puerto Rico (USA)
No passport? No problem! Puerto Rico is packed with tropical beaches, vibrant culture, and rainforest adventures—all without the international travel hassle. Spend the day exploring the colorful streets of Old San Juan, then take a nighttime kayak tour to see the glowing bioluminescent bays—talk about magical! And the beaches? Absolutely stunning and totally free to enjoy.
Top Things to Do:
Wander through the colorful streets of Old San Juan
Visit El Yunque National Forest for waterfalls and hikes
Relax on Flamenco Beach in Culebra
Take a nighttime bioluminescent bay kayak tour
Try mofongo and local street food
7. Chiang Mai, Thailand
Chiang Mai has everything—beautiful temples, amazing street food (seriously, you can eat for $2), and the sweetest locals. Wander through the Old City, explore vibrant night markets, and don’t miss the weekend street markets for all kinds of local treasures. If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, visit an ethical elephant sanctuary where you can spend the day feeding and caring for rescued elephants.
Top Things to Do:
Visit the stunning Wat Phra That Doi Suthep temple
Explore the famous Sunday Night Market
Take a Thai cooking class (so fun and affordable!)
Spend the day at an ethical elephant sanctuary
Try mango sticky rice and local street snacks
8. Mexico City, Mexico
Don’t sleep on Mexico City! It’s full of culture, art, and incredible eats (I’m still dreaming about the churros). Check out the famous Frida Kahlo Museum or take a relaxing boat ride through the colorful canals of Xochimilco. You can also explore massive parks like Chapultepec for free, and honestly, just walking through the city’s lively neighborhoods is an experience all on its own.
Top Things to Do:
Visit the Frida Kahlo Museum (La Casa Azul)
Take a colorful boat ride in Xochimilco
Stroll through Chapultepec Park (it’s huge!)
Explore the historic Zócalo square
Eat your way through the Mercado de Coyoacán
9. Algarve Coast, Portugal
If you’re a beach lover, the Algarve Coast is pure magic. Think golden cliffs, hidden caves, and crystal-clear water—without the crazy price tags of other European beach destinations. Rent a kayak and explore the famous Benagil Cave, or just relax on the quiet beaches. It’s the perfect spot to unwind, and the coastal towns are full of cute little cafes and affordable seafood restaurants.
Top Things to Do:
Explore the iconic Benagil Cave by kayak or boat
Relax on Praia da Marinha Beach
Visit the charming town of Lagos
Hike along the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail for coastal views
Try fresh grilled sardines at a seaside café
10. New Orleans, Louisiana (USA)
NOLA knows how to have a good time without breaking the bank. Free live music is everywhere, and just walking around the French Quarter feels like a party. Wander down Bourbon Street, then head to Frenchmen Street for some of the best (and free) live jazz performances. And don’t worry about expensive meals—grab some beignets at Café du Monde and call it a day!
Top Things to Do:
Explore the French Quarter and Bourbon Street
Catch free live jazz on Frenchmen Street
Visit Jackson Square and St. Louis Cathedral
Take a walk along the Mississippi Riverfront
Treat yourself to beignets at Café du Monde
11. Cartagena, Colombia
Colorful streets, Caribbean beaches, and rich history—Cartagena is a dream! Stroll through the old walled city and soak up the vibrant atmosphere. When you’re ready to relax, hop on a boat and head to one of the nearby islands for a tropical beach day. And the best part? Fresh seafood and tropical fruit are super cheap and beyond delicious.
Top Things to Do:
Wander the colorful streets of the Walled City
Watch the sunset at Café del Mar along the old city walls
Take a boat trip to Playa Blanca or Rosario Islands
Visit Castillo San Felipe de Barajas for amazing views
Try fresh ceviche from a local food stall
12. Prague, Czech Republic
Want to feel like you’re in a real-life fairytale? Prague’s stunning old town, charming bridges, and budget-friendly prices make it a top pick. Wander across the famous Charles Bridge, explore ancient castles, and enjoy riverside walks. Even better, the city’s public transport is super affordable, and you’ll find tons of free walking tours to learn all about its fascinating history.
Top Things to Do:
Cross the iconic Charles Bridge at sunrise or sunset
Visit Prague Castle and St. Vitus Cathedral
Stroll through the charming Old Town Square
Take in the views from Petrin Hill
Try the famous chimney cake (trdelník)
13. Hoi An, Vietnam
Hoi An is pure magic, especially when the lanterns light up the night sky. Stroll along the riverside and enjoy the glowing lantern displays that feel like something out of a movie. You can get a tailored outfit made for a fraction of what you’d pay back home, and the local food scene is unreal. Don’t forget to try a bowl of Cao Lau noodles—it’s a Hoi An specialty!
Top Things to Do:
Stroll through the lantern-lit streets at night
Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge
Take a budget-friendly cooking class
Get custom clothing made by local tailors
Cruise along the Thu Bon River
14. Costa Rica
Nature lovers, this one’s for you! Costa Rica offers everything from beaches to jungles to volcanoes. Spend your days hiking through lush rainforests, spotting sloths and monkeys, or relaxing on quiet, uncrowded beaches. And if you’re feeling adventurous, there are tons of affordable options for ziplining, white-water rafting, and wildlife tours.
Top Things to Do:
Visit Arenal Volcano and soak in nearby hot springs
Explore the Monteverde Cloud Forest
Spot wildlife at Manuel Antonio National Park
Relax on the beautiful beaches of Guanacaste
Try ziplining through the jungle canopy
15. Cebu, Philippines
If crystal-clear waters and island hopping sound like your kind of vibe, Cebu is the spot. Explore gorgeous waterfalls like Kawasan Falls and take a boat tour to see hidden lagoons and white-sand beaches. And honestly, some of the snorkeling spots here are better than any fancy resort you could think of—at a fraction of the price!
Top Things to Do:
Swim in the turquoise waters of Kawasan Falls
Go snorkeling or diving at Moalboal to see sardine runs
Visit the stunning beaches on Bantayan Island
Take an island-hopping boat tour to nearby islands
Hike to the top of Osmeña Peak for panoramic views
Travel on a Budget: Quick Tips to Save Big
Before you start booking flights and packing your bags, here are a few simple ways to make your dream trip even more affordable:
Travel During Off-Season: You’ll save a ton on flights and accommodations, plus enjoy fewer crowds.
Use Flight Comparison Tools: Sites like Skyscanner, Hopper, and Google Flights help you find the cheapest travel dates.
Book Accommodations with Kitchens: Save money by cooking a few meals instead of eating out every day.
Take Advantage of Free Activities: Free walking tours, public parks, beaches, and street festivals offer unforgettable experiences without costing a dime.
Pack Light: Avoid those annoying checked bag fees by traveling with just a carry-on.
How to Choose the Right Budget Destination for You
Not sure where to go first? Here’s a little cheat sheet to help you decide:
Craving Beach Vibes?
Tulum, Mexico
Cebu, Philippines
Algarve Coast, Portugal
Looking for a City Adventure?
Lisbon, Portugal
Mexico City, Mexico
Prague, Czech Republic
In the Mood for Nature & Adventure?
Costa Rica
Chiang Mai, Thailand
Bali, Indonesia
Want a Quick U.S. Getaway?
Savannah, Georgia
New Orleans, Louisiana
Puerto Rico (No passport needed!)
FAQs About Traveling on a Budget
Q: What is the cheapest dreamy destination to visit?
A: Southeast Asia tends to offer the best bang for your buck. Places like Chiang Mai, Thailand, and Hoi An, Vietnam, are incredibly affordable while offering rich cultural experiences and stunning scenery.
Q: How can I afford to travel internationally?
A: Plan ahead and travel during off-peak seasons. Use points and miles if you have them, stay in hostels or budget Airbnbs, and look for free or low-cost attractions like city parks, beaches, and walking tours.
Q: Are budget-friendly destinations safe for solo travelers?
A: Absolutely! Cities like Lisbon, Chiang Mai, and Prague are known for being safe and welcoming to solo travelers. Just follow common-sense safety tips, and you’ll have an amazing time!
Final Thoughts
See? You don’t need a sky-high budget to experience unforgettable places. Whether you’re craving a tropical beach, a charming European city, or a vibrant cultural escape, these dreamy destinations prove that adventure is totally possible without draining your bank account.
So why not start planning that getaway you’ve been daydreaming about? Even if it’s just a weekend trip or a future travel goal, every adventure—big or small—brings something special to your life.
Have a favorite budget-friendly destination I should add to this list? Let me know in the comments! And don’t forget to save this post for when you’re ready to book that next trip!