TRAVEL

Top 30 Cheap Travel Places For Budget Friendly World Exploration

As an avid traveler, I’ve always been inspired by the idea of discovering new places, meeting different people, tasting exotic foods, and immersing myself in various cultures. However, traveling often comes with a hefty price tag that can put a damper on our wanderlust.

Over the years, I’ve dedicated my time to scouring the globe for affordable yet equally exciting travel destinations. And I’m thrilled to share my discoveries with you. I usually never share my travel details but I thought I should discuss my travel journey so far with our readers at ChivMen.

I am going to share some of my favorite cheap travel places that offer rich experiences without breaking the bank. From the bustling streets of Asia to the ancient sites of Eastern Europe, these budget-friendly locations are sure to satisfy your travel cravings.

1. Hanoi, Vietnam

View of the bustling streets in Hanoi, Vietnam, one of the best places to travel on a budget

As one of the most affordable destinations in the world, Hanoi is a city I frequently recommend. My round-trip flight cost was approximately $600, and I found comfortable accommodations for as low as $10 per night. The city’s rich history, vibrant street food scene, and free pagodas make it a top budget destination.

2. Kathmandu, Nepal

Sunset over the vibrant cityscape of Kathmandu, Nepal, a country that offers affordable day tours

Known for its budget-friendly charm, Kathmandu offered me an enriching travel experience for less than $500 round-trip airfare. With cost-effective accommodations starting around $5 per night and plenty of low-cost attractions, it’s one of the cheapest countries I’ve visited.

3. La Paz, Bolivia

Stunning mountainous landscape surrounding La Paz, Bolivia, a hidden gem to find on a South American journey

My round-trip travel to this stunning South American city cost about $700. With daily expenses as low as $30, including accommodation, food, and local transportation, La Paz offers a unique and affordable travel experience.

4. Sofia, Bulgaria

A day visit to the historic center of Sofia, Bulgaria, showcasing its rich architectural heritage

As one of the cheapest cities in Europe, Sofia was a refreshing experience. My round-trip airfare was under $500, and accommodation was available as cheap as $15 per night. Its rich history and free walking tours made it an ideal budget destination.

5. Chiang Mai, Thailand

Temple in Chiang Mai, Thailand, an ideal place to get a taste of authentic Thai culture on a budget

This city is my favorite budget travel place, with round-trip airfare costing around $600 and daily expenses, including accommodation and food, as low as $20. The city offers rich cultural experiences at very affordable prices.

6. Budapest, Hungary

Budapest, with its enchanting architecture and thermal baths, cost me around $500 for a round-trip flight and offered comfortable accommodation for as low as $20 per night. It’s one of the best budget-friendly cities in the world.

7. Cusco, Peru

Colonial architecture of Cusco, Peru, a must-visit South American city for budget travelers.

Despite its popularity as the gateway to Machu Picchu, Cusco remains a budget-friendly destination. My round-trip flight was around $800, and daily costs including food, accommodation, and local transportation were around $30.

8. Istanbul, Turkey

Breathtaking view of the Blue Mosque in Istanbul, Turkey, an affordable world travel destination

Istanbul, a city straddling two continents, offered me a unique blend of cultures for around $600 round-trip airfare. With daily expenses as low as $30, it’s an affordable destination full of historic marvels.

9. Krakow, Poland

View of the medieval streets of Krakow, Poland, a place where history and affordability meet

Known as one of Europe’s cheapest cities, I spent around $500 on a round-trip ticket to Krakow. I found affordable accommodations starting from $15 per night, and its captivating history and culture made it a worthwhile budget trip.

10. Goa, India

Stunning beach scenery in Goa, India, a paradise for budget travelers

My trip to this beach paradise cost around $700 for round-trip airfare. With budget accommodations available as low as $10 per night and affordable local cuisine, Goa is one of the cheapest and most enticing destinations I’ve visited.

11. Lisbon, Portugal

Scenic view of the historic cityscape in Lisbon, Portugal, a best pick for budget travelers

Lisbon is one of my favorite European cities to visit on a budget. The round-trip flight cost me approximately $550, and I found wonderful hostels starting at $15 per night. Its charming streets, historic tram 28, and delicious pasteis de nata make it one of the best cheap places in the world to explore.

12. Bucharest, Romania

Intricately designed buildings in Bucharest, Romania, a country that offers a unique blend of modern and traditional experiences

Bucharest, with its unique blend of architecture and vibrant nightlife, offers a unique travel experience. My round-trip flight cost was around $600, and accommodations were as cheap as $20 per night. The city’s affordability and rich history make it an ideal budget destination.

13. Quito, Ecuador

Panoramic view of Quito, Ecuador, a beautiful place to visit and discover South American culture on a budget

As the gateway to the Galapagos, Quito is a South American city that offers a lot for budget travelers. My round-trip flight was about $700, with daily expenses, including accommodations, local food, and transportation, coming in at around $30.

14. Bangkok, Thailand

Bustling street life in Bangkok, Thailand, one of the most vibrant places to travel affordably

Known for its bustling street markets and affordable street food, Bangkok is a city that I always recommend to budget travelers. A round-trip flight cost me about $600, and I found comfortable accommodations for as low as $10 per night.

15. Belgrade, Serbia

Belgrade, Serbia at sunset, showcasing its rich historical architecture, a must-visit for budget travelers

Belgrade offers a unique European travel experience at a fraction of the cost. My round-trip ticket was around $500, and daily expenses, including food and accommodation, averaged at $25. The city’s historic sites and vibrant nightlife make it one of the best budget destinations in the world.

16. Cape Town, South Africa

Breathtaking landscape of Cape Town, South Africa, a gem to find on any travel journey

This picturesque South African city offers stunning landscapes and affordable adventures. The round-trip flight cost me around $800, and I found accommodations starting from $20 per night. From hiking up Table Mountain to visiting the beautiful beaches, Cape Town is an affordable gem.

17. Jakarta, Indonesia

The vibrant city skyline of Jakarta, Indonesia, a place where tradition and modernity meet affordably

Jakarta is an affordable city bustling with energy and rich in culture. I found a round-trip flight for about $650, and accommodations were available for as cheap as $15 per night. The city’s vibrant street food scene and historical monuments make it a great budget destination.

18 Riga, Latvia

A splendid day view of the old town in Riga, Latvia, one of the best places to visit for history enthusiasts looking to find affordable travel experiences

This Baltic city is one of Europe’s cheapest destinations. My round-trip airfare was about $500, with affordable accommodations starting from $20 per night. Riga’s medieval old town and the Art Nouveau district are must-visit.

19. Tbilisi, Georgia

The vibrant streets and traditional architecture of Tbilisi, Georgia, a country that offers some of the best and most affordable travel experiences

Tbilisi surprised me with its affordable prices and rich history. I spent about $600 on a round-trip flight, and daily costs, including accommodation and food, averaged around $25. The city’s warm hospitality and delicious food make it a top budget-friendly destination.

20. Pokhara, Nepal

tranquil Phewa Lake in Pokhara, Nepal, an idyllic place to visit, showcasing the country's natural beauty, perfect for those seeking the best budget-friendly travel spots

Known for its stunning natural beauty, Pokhara is a haven for budget travelers. My round-trip flight cost was around $700, and accommodations were as cheap as $10 per night. From trekking in the Annapurna range to boating in the Phewa Lake, Pokhara offers a lot for very little cost.

21. Prague, Czech Republic

Day view of picturesque Prague, Czech Republic, an affordable place to visit

The city of a hundred spires, Prague, has always been on my list of best cheap travel places. I found a round-trip ticket for about $550 and accommodations for as low as $20 per night. The city is rich in history with its beautiful Old Town Square, astronomical clock, and Prague Castle, making it a must-visit destination.

22. Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Exploring Phnom Penh, Cambodia, an ideal country to find budget-friendly experiences

As one of the cheapest countries in Southeast Asia, Cambodia offers a great deal for budget travelers. My round-trip flight to Phnom Penh cost about $650, and I was able to find accommodations for as low as $10 per night. The city’s vibrant markets and historic sites, including the Royal Palace and the Killing Fields, provide a rich cultural experience.

23. Bogota, Colombia

Historic sites in Bogota, Colombia, a must-visit country for affordable travel

Colombia’s high-altitude capital, Bogota, is a South American treasure for budget travelers. My round-trip flight cost was around $550, and daily expenses, including food and accommodation, came in at around $30. The city’s historical Candelaria district and the Gold Museum are among the affordable attractions.

24. Amman, Jordan

ancient sites in Amman, Jordan, a top budget-friendly place to visit

With a round-trip ticket costing around $800 and daily expenses averaging around $25, Amman stands out as a budget-friendly Middle Eastern city. My trip was full of rich historical visits to sites like the ancient Roman Theatre and the Amman Citadel.

25. Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn, Estonia, a country offering best value for day trips

One of the best-kept secrets in Europe, Tallinn, offers a medieval charm at affordable prices. My round-trip flight cost was around $500, and I found comfortable accommodations for as cheap as $20 per night. The city’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, was a pleasure to explore.

26. Manila, Philippines

Busy streets of Manila, Philippines, a perfect place to get good travel experiences.

As one of the cheapest countries to visit, the Philippines offers a lot of bang for your buck. My round-trip flight to Manila was about $650, and daily expenses, including accommodation and food, averaged around $25. The city’s mix of Spanish colonial architecture and modern skyscrapers make it an exciting destination.

27. Santiago, Chile

Santiago, Chile, a country offering affordable places to visit

I found Santiago to be a very affordable South American city. A round-trip flight cost me around $800, and accommodations were as cheap as $20 per night. From its lively markets to its historic city center, Santiago offers a great travel experience on a budget.

28. Tunis, Tunisia

Historical tour in Tunis, Tunisia, a budget-friendly country to explore

My trip to this North African city cost around $700 for a round-trip flight. With daily costs, including food and accommodation, averaging around $25, Tunis offers an affordable gateway to explore the rich history and culture of Tunisia.

29. Rabat, Morocco

Rabat, Morocco, one of top places to find great travel experiences

As a budget traveler, I was drawn to Rabat for its affordable travel costs. The round-trip flight was about $600, and I found accommodations for as low as $20 per night. The city’s historic sites, including the Kasbah of the Udayas and the Hassan Tower, made my trip both cheap and culturally enriching.

30. Lima, Peru

Lima, Peru, a country offering some of the best places for budget travel

Lima, the capital of Peru, is another South American city that is surprisingly affordable. My round-trip flight cost around $700, and I found accommodations starting at $15 per night. With its rich history, world-renowned food scene, and vibrant nightlife, Lima is a destination that offers a lot of value for budget travelers.

As I continue my journey around the world, my goal is to find the best cheap places that offer memorable experiences without breaking the bank. Each country I visit, and each city I explore, brings a unique flavor and charm that enhances my travel experience.

Every day on my trip, I aim to discover hidden gems and authentic experiences that embody the spirit of budget travel. From bustling cities to the serene countryside, these affordable destinations prove that you don’t need to spend a fortune to see the world.

So, whether you’re planning your next trip or looking to satisfy your wanderlust, remember, the world is full of cheap yet incredible places waiting for you to visit. Happy travels!

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