Broke But Wanderlust? 14 Beautiful Places to Travel Cheap
If your travel dreams are bigger than your bank account, we’ve got some good news. We’ve found the most breathtaking destinations where you can stretch your dollars and still have an amazing trip.
Dust off your passport and let’s go on a budget-friendly journey to some of the most beautiful places on Earth!
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1. Ubud, Bali
Ubud invites you with open arms into a world where green rice terraces paint the horizon and ancient temples guard the culture. Your mornings could start with a gentle hike along the Campuhan Ridge Walk, where the soft rays of sunrise dance on the lush hillsides.
Spend an afternoon getting to know the friendly monkeys at the Sacred Monkey Forest, but remember to hold your belongings tight!
In the spirit of adventure, take a glimpse into history at the Elephant Cave, an archaeological wonder that whispers tales from a millennium past.
Recommended Hotel: At Royal Kamuela Villas & Suites, you’re treated to a luxurious stay amid Ubud’s natural beauty.
2. Siem Reap, Cambodia
Traveling on a budget? You can’t miss Siem Reap. This town is your ticket to the ancient world with the stunning temples of Angkor Wat. Wake up early and catch a sunrise over the temples; it’s a sight you’ll talk about for years.
Hungry after all that temple gazing? Siem Reap’s street food will fill you up without emptying your wallet.
Strong on culture and light on costs, local markets are packed with crafts and vibrant colors. And yes, bartering is part of the fun, so get ready to negotiate.
Recommended Hotel: The uniquely designed Shinta Mani Angkor offers a refreshing poolside escape amid Siem Reap’s buzz.
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3. Budapest, Hungary
Budapest offers a lot without asking for much. Your wallet rests easy here. Split by the Danube, the city flaunts history with its hilltop castle and the Parliament’s grandeur along the riverbank.
Some spots give you a two-for-one deal on views and architecture, like the Fisherman’s Bastion, with its turrets and terraces overlooking the water.
Hungary’s capital keeps things lively even after dark. Ruin bars in the Jewish Quarter, like Szimpla Kert, let you sip on local wines in eclectic, art-smothered spaces.
During the day, don’t skip the vibrant Central Market Hall – your senses get a workout with the scents and colors of fresh paprika and sweet pastries.
Recommended Hotel: Aria Hotel Budapest is unique for its musical theme, where each room is dedicated to a different genre or artist.
4. Hanoi, Vietnam
In Hanoi, your wallet stays plump while the city unfurls its charm with streets humming with history. Sail through the serenity of Hoan Kiem Lake, a morning’s walk here energizes with calm greens and ripples reflecting ancient stories.
Meander into the Old Quarter, where art leaps from every corner and you snag cool keepsakes without breaking the bank. Seeking a culture fix? The Temple of Literature stands proud as a beacon of scholarly pursuits, fascinating without a fee.
And when dusk falls, the scent of sizzling Bun Cha leads you to feast on street eats fit for a king, yet priced for the people.
Recommended Hotel: La Siesta Classic Ma May sets itself apart with personalized service in the heart of the Old Quarter.
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5. Krakow, Poland
Krakow beckons with charm that doesn’t break the bank. Your wanderlust is rewarded by streets echoing with history, and the majestic Wawel Castle guards the skyline like a timeless guardian.
Let the aroma of fresh pierogi lead you through the bustling Market Square, a social hub buzzing with locals and travelers alike. As night falls, the Kazimierz district thrives with quaint bars and lively melodies, perfect for your thirst for culture and fun.
Recommended Hotel: The Secret Garden Hostel snuggles you in its unique, artistic flair right in the historic Kazimierz district.
6. Chiang Mai, Thailand
Traveling on a budget? Chiang Mai has your back with its affordable riches. Your time here is a chance to unwind beneath the shade of a temple spire, delve into bustling markets, and meet friendly locals.
Let your curiosity lead you to the Wat Phra Singh temple, where Lanna culture comes alive in wood carvings and serene monks’ chants. Your senses will spark at the vibrant colors and spiritual calm.
Eager for an adventure? Embark on a hike to the Sticky Waterfalls or mingle with majestic elephants in a kind and respectful way.
Recommended Hotel: The Dhara Dhevi Chiang Mai Hotel stands out for its traditional Lanna Kingdom architecture.
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7. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur is bright and buzzing, with tall buildings that reach up to tickle the clouds. You can wander around the colorful streets, finding tasty street food that costs less than a comic book.
Ever seen a park in the sky? Visit the KL Forest Eco Park and feel like a bird high up in the treetops. And remember to wave to the Petronas Twin Towers – they’re really famous and look like silver rockets shooting into the sky.
Recommended Hotel: The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur stands out for its colonial-era architecture and luxurious ambiance.
8. Prague, Czech Republic
Prague beckons with its charming blend of history and affordability. Stroll through the Old Town with its vibrant colors and cobblestone streets, soaking in centuries-old stories etched into the architecture.
Cross the Charles Bridge early to avoid the crowd and catch the sunrise—a truly magical moment. Jump on a free walking tour to uncover hidden gems and learn about this city.
Hungry? Snack on a delicious traditional open-faced sandwich, called a chlebíček, without breaking the bank. Later, absorb panoramic views from Letná Park, the city’s own hilltop retreat.
Recommended Hotel: Hotel Julian impresses with its rooftop terrace views and a delightful English-style library.
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9. Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon charms with its laid-back vibe and wallet-friendly wonders. Your dollars stretch further amidst the colorful buildings and terracotta roofs. The city’s trams rattle up the hills, offering rides for pennies.
In Alfama, history breathes through the quaint streets and the strum of Fado music. Don’t miss the view from São Jorge Castle; for a small fee, Lisbon’s red-tiled sprawl lies sparkling below.
Tiny cafés serve up fresh, ocean-caught delights, while the local flea market, Feira da Ladra, bursts with budget-friendly treasures.
Recommended Hotel: Solar do Castelo is a charming hotel nestled within the walls of São Jorge Castle, where history sleeps beside you.
10. La Paz, Bolivia
Breathe in the crisp mountain air and let the bustling markets capture your senses in La Paz. Your wallet can relax because adventures here are both thrilling and affordable.
Cycle down the infamous Death Road – the views are vast, the thrills are plenty, and the memories? Priceless. Or maybe you’d rather ride the sky on a cable car, swooping over the city like a bird, without the sky-high price tag.
Recommended Hotel: Selina La Paz. Right in the heart of it, with a perfect mix of lively vibes and relaxing rooms, starting at just $11 a night.
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11. Sofia, Bulgaria
Sofia surprises you with its mix of history and affordability. Its streets tell stories of the past, with stunning buildings like the St. Alexander Nevski Cathedral, one of the largest Eastern Orthodox cathedrals in the world.
Despite its grand size, Sofia feels approachable and even homely, with parks and outdoor spaces where you can relax for free. You don’t need a hefty wallet to enjoy Sofia’s charm.
Indulge in the local cuisine at street markets without spending much. Visit landmarks such as the Rotunda of St. George, the oldest building in Sofia, without the pinch on your pocket.
Recommended Hotel: Sofia Place stands out for its family-friendly vibe and central location.
12. Tbilisi, Georgia
Tbilisi invites you with old-world charm, streets lined with quirky houses and a river that meanders through its heart. As Georgia’s capital, it tucks into valleys and hills, dotted with patches of green and threaded with cobblestone paths.
Your wallet breathes easy here, with tasty khachapuri costing less than a dollar and a public bus ride at just a few cents.
Stroll through the Dry Bridge Market, and you’ll find all sorts of cool stuff from old Soviet memorabilia to handmade jewelry. You can even learn about the country’s history at the National Museum of Georgia without spending much.
Recommended Hotel: Fabrika Hostel & Suites – housed in an old Soviet sewing factory, this spot merges history with hip design.
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13. Cusco, Peru
Traveling to Cusco means stepping back in time amongst ruins that have stood for centuries. This city, cradled in the Peruvian Andes, is where you’ll feel history come alive around every corner.
Wander through the San Blas neighborhood where artisans sell handmade crafts. Don’t miss out on sampling traditional dishes like ceviche at vibrant local markets.
Festivities in the Plaza de Armas are free to enjoy, and many of the ancient sites can be experienced without breaking the bank. Drink in the scenery at Sacsayhuamán, where the massive stones tell tales of the Inca Empire.
Recommended Hotel: The JW Marriott El Convento Cusco stands out with its history as a 16th-century convent.
14. Hoi An, Vietnam
Ah, Hoi An! Its charm captures your heart with vibrant markets and streets lit by colorful lanterns. The Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, feels like stepping back in time with its mustard-yellow French colonial buildings, Chinese temples, and Japanese Bridge.
It’s a living museum, but instead of ropes and glass boxes, you can touch and feel the history. Savor a bowl of Cao Lau, the town’s signature dish, telling tales of centuries past with each bite.
For beach lovers, An Bang Beach offers soft sands and clear waters just a short ride from the town’s buzz.
Recommended Hotel: Vinh Hung Riverside Resort – A serene escape by the river, where traditional architecture meets tropical gardens.
