Traveling doesn’t have to be expensive. Whether you’re looking for cheap vacation trips, budget-friendly destinations, or simply the cheapest places to travel, there are plenty of exciting locations where you can stretch your dollar further. In 2025, savvy travelers can take advantage of affordable travel destinations that offer great experiences at a fraction of the cost.
From cheap tropical vacations to affordable cities rich in culture, this guide will highlight 18 of the best cheap places to travel in 2025, covering a mix of international and U.S. destinations perfect for budget-conscious travelers.
Vietnam – One of the Cheapest Countries to Visit
Vietnam continues to be one of the cheapest travel destinations in the world. Street food like pho and banh mi costs just a couple of dollars, and budget accommodations are widely available.
✔ Explore Hanoi’s Old Quarter
✔ Cruise through Ha Long Bay
✔ Visit Hoi An’s Ancient Town
Mexico – Affordable Beach and Cultural Getaways
Mexico offers cheap vacations with stunning beaches, historic sites, and incredible food. Avoid touristy areas like Cancun and opt for Oaxaca, Guanajuato, or Puerto Escondido for an even more budget-friendly experience.
✔ Wander the colorful streets of San Miguel de Allende
✔ Relax on the beaches of Puerto Escondido
✔ Experience the rich cuisine of Oaxaca
Albania – Europe’s Hidden Gem
Albania is one of the cheapest places to visit in Europe, offering breathtaking beaches and historical towns without the high prices of neighboring Greece or Italy.
✔ Sunbathe on the Albanian Riviera
✔ Explore the UNESCO-listed city of Gjirokastër
✔ Hike in the stunning Valbona Valley National Park
Guatemala – A Cheap Adventure Destination
For those seeking affordable travel destinations rich in history and nature, Guatemala is a top pick. From volcano hikes to ancient ruins, this Central American gem is perfect for budget travelers.
✔ Visit the Tikal ruins
✔ Explore the colorful streets of Antigua
✔ Hike Acatenango Volcano
Portugal – Affordable European Charm
While some parts of Europe can be pricey, Portugal remains one of the most affordable places to travel on the continent. From Lisbon’s historic trams to Porto’s riverside beauty, Portugal offers a lot for less.
✔ Enjoy cheap wine in Porto
✔ Surf in the affordable town of Ericeira
✔ Wander through the Alfama district in Lisbon
Bolivia – One of the Cheapest Countries to Travel
Bolivia is a budget-friendly destination offering stunning landscapes, from the world-famous Uyuni Salt Flats to the bustling capital of La Paz.
✔ Visit the Salar de Uyuni
✔ Explore the Amazon rainforest on a budget
✔ Experience the local markets of La Paz
India – A Classic Budget Travel Destination
India remains one of the cheapest countries to visit, offering rich culture, history, and adventure for a fraction of what you’d spend in other countries.
✔ Admire the Taj Mahal in Agra
✔ Explore the beaches of Goa
✔ Trek through the Himalayas in Himachal Pradesh
Colombia – Affordable South American Paradise
Colombia has transformed into a must-visit budget-friendly travel destination with affordable cities, stunning beaches, and vibrant culture.
✔ Walk the colonial streets of Cartagena
✔ Visit the colorful town of Guatapé
✔ Hike in Tayrona National Park
Thailand – A Cheap Beach & Adventure Destination
Thailand has long been a favorite among budget travelers, thanks to its affordable accommodations, cheap food, and beautiful islands.
✔ Party on a budget in Koh Phangan
✔ Discover ancient ruins in Ayutthaya
✔ Eat street food in Bangkok’s night markets
Georgia – Europe’s Most Underrated Cheap Destination
Not to be confused with the U.S. state, the country of Georgia is one of the cheapest places to visit in Europe, with a mix of mountains, historic towns, and a growing wine scene.
✔ Explore the old town of Tbilisi
✔ Visit the mountain region of Kazbegi
✔ Try traditional Georgian wine
Nicaragua – A Budget Traveler’s Dream
Nicaragua is one of the cheapest tropical vacations, with gorgeous beaches, volcanoes, and colonial cities that are perfect for travelers on a budget.
✔ Surf at San Juan del Sur
✔ Hike Masaya Volcano
✔ Explore the city of Granada
Hungary – Affordable Travel in Central Europe
Hungary, particularly Budapest, is one of the most affordable travel destinations in Europe. The city is full of thermal baths, ruin bars, and stunning architecture.
✔ Relax in the Széchenyi Thermal Baths
✔ Walk along the Danube River
✔ Visit Buda Castle
Laos – Southeast Asia’s Most Underrated Cheap Destination
While many travelers flock to Thailand or Vietnam, Laos remains a cheap travel destination with fewer crowds and breathtaking landscapes.
✔ Visit the Kuang Si Waterfalls
✔ Take a slow boat down the Mekong River
✔ Explore the temples of Luang Prabang
Bosnia & Herzegovina – A Budget Destination in the Balkans
Bosnia offers affordable European charm, with beautiful landscapes and a rich history at a fraction of the price of other destinations in the region.
✔ Visit the famous Stari Most Bridge in Mostar
✔ Explore the capital city of Sarajevo
✔ Hike in the Una National Park
Cambodia – Low-Cost Travel in Southeast Asia
Cambodia is home to Angkor Wat, one of the most famous temples in the world, but it also offers stunning islands and lively cities at very affordable prices.
✔ Watch the sunrise at Angkor Wat
✔ Relax on Koh Rong Island
✔ Visit the bustling capital of Phnom Penh
Turkey – A Cheap & Diverse Travel Destination
Turkey offers a unique blend of European and Middle Eastern culture with budget-friendly accommodations and attractions.
✔ Explore the ancient city of Ephesus
✔ Take a hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia
✔ Wander through the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul
The Philippines – Cheap Island Adventures
If you’re looking for cheap islands to visit, the Philippines offers some of the best tropical landscapes for budget travelers.
✔ Swim with whale sharks in Oslob
✔ Relax on White Beach in Boracay
✔ Explore the limestone cliffs of El Nido
Peru – An Affordable Destination for Nature Lovers
Peru is one of the cheapest countries to travel in South America, offering a mix of history, adventure, and stunning landscapes.
✔ Hike to Machu Picchu
✔ Visit the floating villages of Lake Titicaca
✔ Explore the desert oasis of Huacachina
Final Thoughts: Affordable Travel in 2025
Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean missing out on amazing experiences. These 18 cheap places to travel in 2025 offer stunning landscapes, rich culture, and affordable adventures that won’t break the bank. Whether you’re looking for cheap vacation ideas, budget-friendly cities, or inexpensive tropical getaways, there’s a destination on this list for every type of traveler.
Start planning your affordable adventure today and make 2025 a year of exploration without overspending.
