What if international travel didn’t have to cost an arm and a leg?
Good news: if you pick the right country and activities, the world can be your oyster. Enjoy a delicious meal in Vietnam for less than the cost of a cup of coffee in the U.S. Rent a scooter to explore the island paradise of Bali for the same amount you would tip a taxi driver in America. Sleep in a hotel room in Portugal for less than half of what you’d pay back home.
Here are the countries that offer all the perks of luxury travel at a fraction of the cost:
Vietnam
Vietnam’s economy allows travelers to enjoy lodging, food, and sightseeing for a fraction of what it might cost elsewhere. A full meal can often be found for under $2, especially if you venture into street food territory. The stunning Ha Long Bay and the bustling streets of Hanoi provide once-in-a-lifetime experiences that are incredibly affordable.
Mexico
Mexico offers an impressive exchange rate that stretches the U.S. dollar, particularly in less touristy areas. From the sun-kissed beaches of Tulum, pulsing with exciting events in Tulum like lively music festivals, to the captivating historical sites in Oaxaca, visitors can explore a vast array of attractions without breaking the bank. Local markets and street vendors provide meals and souvenirs at very reasonable prices.
Colombia
In Colombia, the cost of living is low, making it a great destination for budget-conscious travelers from the U.S. Cities like Medellin and Bogota offer exciting nightlife and immersive cultural experiences for a fraction of the cost you’d expect. Transportation within cities is often less than a dollar, and accommodations are both affordable and comfortable.
India
India’s diverse regions offer dramatically different experiences at costs that are generally low across the board. You can rent a boat for a day on the Ganges in Varanasi for about $15. Street foods like samosas and chai are not only delicious but are also priced at mere cents.
Indonesia
Bali, Indonesia, is renowned for its stunning beaches and incredibly low-cost living. A scooter rental to explore the island might cost around $5 a day, while a traditional Balinese massage could set you back only $10. Dining in local warungs (cafes) provides an authentic taste of Indonesian cuisine for less than $3 per meal.
Philippines
The Philippines features over 7,000 islands, many of which offer stunning accommodations at very low prices. Local transportation, like jeepneys and tricycles, offers fun and quirky travel options for pennies. The abundance of natural beauty—from pristine beaches to lush terrains—is accessible without hefty fees.
Morocco
Morocco presents an exotic escape where your dollars can be stretched beyond expectation. A guided tour of the historic medina in Fez might cost about $10, while a lavish meal complete with tagine and couscous could be less than $5. The souks and bazaars invite wandering at little to no cost, with bargains aplenty.
Portugal
While it is part of Western Europe, Portugal offers significantly lower living costs compared to its neighbors. In smaller cities and towns, comfortable accommodations can be found for about $30 a night. The fascinating history and architecture, from Lisbon’s trams to the port wine cellars in Porto, are economically accessible.
Bulgaria
Bulgaria boasts some of the lowest prices in Europe for travelers, especially when it comes to food and lodging. A hearty traditional meal at a local tavern might cost as little as $5. Sofia, the capital, offers numerous cultural and historical attractions at very affordable prices.
South Africa
The strength of the U.S. dollar against the South African Rand makes it a budget-friendly destination. Activities like safaris can be experienced at a fraction of the cost compared to other countries. Cape Town and Johannesburg offer fascinating urban cultures with plentiful affordable dining and entertainment options.
Guatemala
Guatemala is known for its storied Mayan history and stunning landscapes, all accessible on a budget. Lake Atitlan and the ancient ruins of Tikal can be enjoyed without spending a lot. Local markets offer handcrafted textiles and pottery at prices that are hard to find elsewhere.
Hungary
In Hungary, particularly Budapest, your dollar stretches far, thanks to favorable exchange rates. The city’s famous thermal baths offer a unique experience at a low entry cost. Fine dining, including dishes like goulash and paprikash, remains surprisingly affordable.
Egypt
In Egypt, the cost of visiting world-renowned historical sites like the Pyramids of Giza is surprisingly low. Local guides often offer tours for around $20, providing insights into ancient history that are priceless. Even a cruise down the Nile is accessible for those on a tight budget.
Turkey
The Turkish lira’s value means travel expenses in Turkey are generally low for Americans. Accommodations, particularly in areas outside of Istanbul, are both high quality and affordable. The exotic history of places like Cappadocia, with its fairy chimneys and ancient cave homes, can be explored economically.
Nepal
Nepal is a paradise for trekkers and offers experiences like the Annapurna Circuit at low costs. Guest houses along the trekking routes provide comfort and sustenance for under $20 a day. The monasteries and temples often require just a small donation for entry.
Argentina
Argentina’s fluctuating economy means increased purchasing power for those with U.S. dollars. Buenos Aires offers steak dinners at parrillas (steakhouses) for under $10. The stunning landscapes of Patagonia are more accessible financially from here than almost anywhere else in the world.
Czech Republic
Despite its popularity, the Czech Republic remains an affordable travel destination. Beer in Prague is famously cheaper than water, often costing less than $1 at local pubs. Historical tours of the Old Town are plentiful and provide deep dives into the nation’s history for a modest fee.
Greece
Greece’s economic situation has improved, but prices for tourists remain competitive. You can explore ancient ruins like the Acropolis for a small fee. The local gastronomy, featuring items like gyros and fresh seafood, provides a feast for the senses without a hefty price tag.
Poland
Poland offers a blend of historical sites and modern attractions at very low costs. A visit to the Wieliczka Salt Mine, for instance, offers a unique subterranean experience at a budget-friendly price. Polish cuisine, from pierogi to borscht, is both hearty and inexpensive.
Peru
Peru is most famous for Machu Picchu, but the entire country offers affordable travel opportunities. Local markets in Cusco sell handcrafted alpaca textiles for bargain prices. The diverse landscapes, from the Amazon rainforest to the Andes mountains, are teeming with adventures that won’t drain your wallet.
Thailand
Thailand continues to be an affordable hub in Southeast Asia, where luxuries like beachfront hotels cost a fraction of what you would pay elsewhere. Street food like pad Thai and mango sticky rice are both delicious and incredibly cheap. Activities such as snorkeling and temple visits are low-cost yet enriching.
Romania
Romania offers stunning landscapes and storied history at very low prices. A journey through the Transylvanian Alps or a visit to Dracula’s Castle can be done on a modest budget. Local eateries serve hearty portions of dishes like sarmale (cabbage rolls) and mamaliga (polenta) for just a few dollars.
Croatia
Croatia provides the Mediterranean experience at significantly lower prices than its western counterparts. You can rent a kayak and explore the Dalmatian coast for about $20 a day. The historical cities of Dubrovnik and Split offer ancient walls and lively cafes at prices that invite exploration.
