2024 is a great year to embark on new adventures, rich in natural and cultural attractions, yet easy on the wallet.

From the traditional flavors of Central and South America to the historic charm of the Balkans, the exotic landscapes of India, the vibrant markets of Morocco, and the captivating allure of Southeast Asia, there are plenty of budget-friendly destinations waiting to be explored.

When making your travel plans, keep in mind this list of cities and countries where your money can go a long way.

Vietnam

Vietnam offers the budget traveler a range of affordable options, from inexpensive accommodations and cheap, delicious street food to many free attractions. 

This Southeast Asian country, once devastated by war, is now emerging as a premier destination, thanks to the warmth of its people and breathtaking natural wonders. 

Whether exploring the lively streets of Ho Chi Minh City, taking in the majestic views of Ha Long Bay, witnessing the Ban Gioc waterfalls, or marveling at the Hang Son Doong caves, there’s something to captivate every visitor. 

Average Costs: Hostels start at $10, with mid-range hotels from $50 per night. Street food ranges from $1 to $5. Enjoy a local beer (bia hoi) for as little as 30 cents a glass. Public transportation begins at a dollar for local buses.

Sightseeing: Don’t miss the War Remnants Museum and the Cu Chi Tunnels in Ho Chi Minh City; Hanoi, and Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park.

Best Time for Savings: Between April to June and September to November.

Travel Tips: Try local delights such as pho soup and banh mi sandwiches for an authentic and frugal culinary experience.

Cambodia

Visiting Angkor Wat, one of the world’s most photographed temples, is surprisingly accessible, given Cambodia’s status as a budget-friendly destination.

Beyond its ancient Khmer temples and idyllic rural villages, Cambodia boasts picturesque islands like Koh Rong and the bustling urban landscapes of Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.

In 2023, the revered city of Koh Ker was honored with a place on UNESCO’s World Heritage list.

Thanks to many inexpensive hostels, homestays, and affordable transportation, Cambodia remains a haven for backpackers.

Average Costs: Hostels and homestays from just $5 a night, apartments from $20, and hotels from $20. Street food can cost less than $1, with local beers at $1. Public transportation is a bargain, starting at less than 50 cents.

Sightseeing: Angkor Wat, Koh Ker, the National Museum, Royal Palace, Killing Fields, and the Silver Pagoda. 

Best Time for Savings: The low season, from April to October.

Travel Tips: Take overnight buses for lengthier journeys. For local travel, consider using ride-share apps like Grab or PassApp, and the ubiquitous tuk-tuks.

Laos

Southeast Asia continues to enchant with Laos, an affordable gem waiting to be explored. Nestled amidst China, Myanmar, Vietnam, Thailand, and Cambodia, Laos is the only landlocked country in the region.

Visitors can enjoy its rugged mountains, tranquil towns along the Mekong River, and stunning Buddhist temples. 

In an effort to draw more tourists, the Laotian government has launched the “Visit Laos Year 2024” campaign, showcasing the nation’s historical, cultural, and natural attractions. 

Travelers will find Laos’s relaxed pace ideal for “slow tourism,” enjoying budget-friendly accommodations, transportation, food, and modest fees for a host of attractions.

Average Costs: Hostels from $5, hotels from $15, and private rooms at $20. Local buses start at 50 cents, intercity buses at $5, tuk-tuks from $1, street food from $1, and local beer from just 70 cents.

Sightseeing: Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng, Vientiane, Si Phan Don (Four Thousand Islands), the Plain of Jars, and the Tad Fane and Tad Yuang waterfalls. 

Best Time for Savings: The ideal period for visiting is from May to October.

Travel Tips: Renting a motorbike at $5 a day is a great way to explore the countryside. Carrying a reusable water bottle with a filter will keep you hydrated without extra costs.

Sofia, Bulgaria

Away from Europe’s prime destinations, Bulgaria offers an enchanting and affordable Balkan adventure. Sofia, the capital, is a treasure of historical, cultural, and culinary delights with Thracian, Byzantine, and Roman influences.

Indulge in delectable Bulgarian specialties such as banitsa (pie) and shopska salad, and relax at the mineral springs in Pancharevo or Banya.

Adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers will appreciate the well-kept green forests that surround the city.

Average Costs: Budget accommodations are priced around $20-$30, with meals in local eateries between $5-$10.

Sightseeing: The St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the Rotunda Church of St. George, Vitosha Mountain, Boyana Church, and Vitosha Boulevard.

Best Time to Save: The best period for outdoor adventures is from May to September.

Travel Tips: Navigate the city with Sofia’s metro system, and enjoy the local fare at bakeries and markets (Zhenski Pazar, Halite) for an authentic and budget-friendly experience.

Budapest, Hungary

Budapest’s appeal lies in its combination of affordability, cultural richness, impressive Art Nouveau architecture, and famous thermal baths.

The Hungarian capital has an efficient and budget-friendly public transportation network, with buses, metro, and iconic trams.

Visitors can soak up the city’s cool ambiance in famous ruin pubs like Szimpla Kert, or stroll across the Chain Bridge linking Buda and Pest.

Known as the “City of Spas” since the 1930s, Budapest’s thermal baths are very popular, with dedicated websites for advance ticket purchases. Larger spas such as Széchenyi and Lukács host night parties featuring light shows and circus performances.

Average Costs: Affordable accommodations start at $20, with mid-range options around $50-$70. Dining out averages $5-$15.

Sightseeing: Not-to-be-missed sights include Buda Castle, the Hungarian Parliament Building, the St. Stephen’s Basilica, and the city’s numerous thermal baths.

Best Time to Save: The most budget-friendly times to visit are November and January to March.

Travel Tips: For savings, consider purchasing the Budapest Card, which offers free public transport and discounts on numerous attractions.

Jaipur, India

India, a haven for budget travelers, dazzles with its vibrant culture and stunning scenery. As the world’s 7th largest country, it presents an endless itinerary of destinations and landmarks.

Jaipur, the “Pink City,” is beautiful and more affordable than many other tourist hotspots in India. To enjoy the best experience, avoid the intense heat of April through June.

As the capital of Rajasthan, Jaipur features not only impressive forts and palaces from the 16th to 18th centuries, but also bustling markets, hectic streets, and monkeys!

Average Costs: Lodging is inexpensive, with hostels from $5, private rooms and hotels from $15, and daily tuk-tuk or tam-tam transport from $6. Enjoy samosas for as little as 18 cents.

Sightseeing: Attractions include Amber Fort, Hawa Mahal, the Jantar Mantar Astronomical Observatory, Jaigarh Fort, Nahargarh Fort, City Palace, and the vibrant Johari and Bapu bazaars.

Best Time to Save: The ideal visiting months are March, October, and November.

Travel Tips: To save, buy a Tourist Composite ticket for a discounted price, granting two-day access to multiple attractions such as Amber Fort and Hawa Mahal.

La Paz, Bolivia

Brace yourself for both high altitudes and low prices in La Paz. The Bolivian city offers a wealth of rich culture, traditional cuisine, and unique markets that won’t break the bank.

Wander the cobblestone streets, immerse yourself in the museums, and admire the well-preserved colonial splendor of picturesque Calle Jaén, dating back to the 16th century.

Ascend the hills via the teleférico, which holds the title of the world’s longest and highest urban cable car system, for a breathtaking cityscape.

Don’t miss out on local snacks like empanadas salteñas or tucumanas, savory pastries filled with meat and potatoes.

For those wishing to visit the mesmerizing Salar de Uyuni, the planet’s largest salt flats, a few budget overnight buses are available from La Paz.

Average Costs: Hostels start at $10, with local restaurant meals ranging from $3-$6.

Sightseeing: Highlights include the Witch Market, Moon Valley, Chacaltaya Mountain, and Mount Illimani.

Best Time to Save: The optimal travel period is from May to October during the dry season.

Travel Tips: Utilize public transportation and savor meals at local eateries and markets.

El Salvador

El Salvador, the smallest nation in Central America, has recently made headlines for all the right reasons. Previously feared due to gang rule, the country’s image is transforming under the presidency of Nayib Bukele, who also introduced bitcoin as a legal tender alongside the US dollar.

Apart from its capital, San Salvador, which boasts a blend of colonial charm and modern architecture, El Salvador is celebrated for its unspoiled beaches, volcanoes, and Mayan archaeological treasures.

Surf enthusiasts will find their paradise in Surf City with towering waves reaching up to 10 feet at beaches such as El Tunco (rapidly becoming a surfers’ haven), El Zonte, and Punta Roca.

And there’s more good news: visiting El Salvador is less expensive than its Central American counterparts like Costa Rica and Panama.

Average Costs: Hostels from $10, budget hotels from $40, street food such as the traditional Salvadoran pupusas from 50 cents to $1, and local buses from 25 cents.

Sightseeing: Must-visit sites include Tazumal, Suchitoto, El Boquerón National Park, Santa Ana Volcano, Coatepeque Lake, and Ruta de las Flores.

Best Time to Save: The best time for a visit spans from May to November.

Travel Tips: Look into day passes offered by many beach hotels and resorts. These typically include meals, beach and pool access for about $25 per person, providing an affordable vacation experience.

Albania

Albania, a once-overlooked jewel in the Balkans, is now making a name for itself with its stunning beaches, mountains, and historical sites. Despite its rising popularity, it remains a surprisingly affordable destination.

From hostels to guesthouses and boutique hotels, accommodation options cater to all budgets. Extensive bus services offer country-wide travel for under 15 euros.

Albania’s rich tapestry of Byzantine, Ottoman, Roman, Greek, and Astro-Hungarian influences is evident in its architecture, cuisine, and culture.

Begin in the vibrant capital of Tirana, known for its trendy cafes and old bunkers, then travel to the historic town of Berat, known as the “City of one over one windows,” and unwind along the pristine Albanian Riviera.

Average Costs: Local bus fares start at 40 cents, interurban buses at $10, hostels at $12, private rooms at $24, and hotels at $35. Appetizers from $2 and coffee from $1.40.

Sightseeing: Points of interest include Gjirokaster, Butrint National Park, Berat, Shkodra, the beaches of Ksamil and Dhermi, the Valbona Valley, and the Llogara Pass.

Best Time to Save: The best visiting times are May-June and September-October, though the lowest prices are found from November to March.

Travel Tips: Explore Tirana and other pedestrian-friendly cities on foot. Shop at local markets like Tirana’s “New Bazaar” (Pazari i Ri) and Kruja’s “Old Bazaar” (Pazari i Vjeter) for unique finds and better deals.

Morocco

Following the devastating earthquake in 2023, Morocco is revitalizing its tourism sector and eagerly welcoming visitors.

The allure of Morocco’s vibrant culture is irresistible, stretching from the Mediterranean coast to the Saharan desert and the Atlas Mountains.

This North African country offers an affordable escape with lively souks, zesty street food, adventurous desert camps, ancient villages, scenic cities, and more.

Wander through the historic medinas of Marrakesh, Fez, or Essaouira, exploring hidden alleys, haggling with vendors, appreciating traditional architecture, and immersing yourself in a myriad of cultural experiences without straining your wallet.

Average Costs: Hostels start at $10, riads at $30, apartments at $40, with bus and tram tickets as low as 50 cents. Coffee and tea are around $1, with a typical Moroccan breakfast at $3.

Sightseeing: Must-sees include the historic medina and Jemaa el-Fnaa square in Marrakech, the traditional tanneries in Fez, the blue-hued Chefchaouen in the Rif Mountains, Casablanca, the Sahara Desert, the coastal town of Essaouira, and the Atlas Mountains.

Best Time to Save: The best deals can be found in July and August, but prepare for the heat!

Travel Tips: Stay in riads for authentic and cost-effective Moroccan hospitality. Also, take advantage of the new high-speed train, Al Boraq, which offers affordable travel options.

In Summary

With inflation hitting us everywhere, making travel plans can be a challenge. Luckily, there are still places where you can find enriching experiences at affordable prices, compared to what it costs to visit the most popular tourist hubs. So, plan smart and start packing!