Broke But Love to Travel? No Worries! These Destinations Won’t Break The Bank
Think travel is only for those with deep pockets? Think again. The truth is, some of the most incredible places on Earth are also ridiculously affordable.
You just need to know where to go and how to do it right. Imagine feasting on street food for under $2, wandering through ancient cities for free, or stretching your budget so far that a week feels like a month.
Sounds too good to be true? It’s not! Pack light, plan smart, and get ready—because adventure is a lot cheaper than you think.
1. Hanoi, Vietnam
Vietnam’s capital knows how to treat budget travelers well. Hanoi offers a blend of ancient temples, chaotic street life, and some of the best cheap eats on the planet. If you’re here, you must start with a bowl of pho—which costs about the same as a bottle of water back home.
Wander through the Old Quarter, where history whispers through French-colonial buildings, and motorcycles weave through streets like an unchoreographed dance. Entry to Hoan Kiem Lake and its legendary Ngoc Son Temple is just pocket change. If you love history, don’t miss the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum—it’s free!
For the best entertainment? Grab a tiny stool at Bia Hoi Junction, where locals and travelers alike sip fresh beer for under a dollar while watching the city pulse with life. Cheap, lively, and absolutely unforgettable.
2. Chiang Mai, Thailand
Forget Bangkok’s chaos! Chiang Mai is where your money works overtime. This northern Thai city is a dream for budget travelers, offering centuries-old temples, night markets, and stunning nature. All without the hefty price tag.
The famous Sunday Night Market is a feast for the senses, where you can eat like royalty for a few dollars—crispy pad Thai, mango sticky rice, and fresh fruit smoothies? Yes, please.
For a break from the city, hike up Doi Suthep Mountain for panoramic views, or rent a motorbike and cruise through rice fields to hidden waterfalls. Cheap, thrilling, and packed with adventure. Just how travel should be!
3. Kraków, Poland
Europe on a budget? Kraków makes it possible. Unlike pricier cities like Paris or Rome, Poland’s cultural hub delivers medieval charm, deep history, and incredible food for just a fraction of the cost.
Start with St. Mary’s Basilica and the Main Market Square, both completely free to explore. Take a walking tour of the Old Town and let the stories of Kraków’s past unfold. Feeling ambitious? Hike up to Wawel Castle, where parts of the grounds are open to the public without spending a dime.
And the food? Now we’re talking! You can devour a plate of pierogi (dumplings) or a massive zapiekanka (Polish pizza bread) for just a couple of bucks. And, of course, if you want to dive into history, visit Auschwitz or the Wieliczka Salt Mine, both surprisingly affordable for such powerful experiences.
4. Mexico City, Mexico
Think Mexico City is expensive? Not if you know where to go. This metropolis is a goldmine for cheap eats, rich culture, and jaw-dropping sights that won’t empty your wallet.
Start at Zócalo, the massive main square surrounded by historic landmarks like the Metropolitan Cathedral and the Palacio Nacional. Check this out: they’re both free to visit! Then head to Chapultepec Park, a green oasis bigger than Central Park, packed with free museums, lakes, and even a castle.
Hungry? Street food is king. Grab tacos al pastor, tamales, or a cup of esquites for just a few pesos. And don’t forget the free walking tours. They’re perfect for exploring neighborhoods like Coyoacán, where Frida Kahlo once called home.
5. Budapest, Hungary
Budapest feels luxurious, but it’s shockingly affordable. From thermal baths to historic castles, this city offers European charm without the hefty price tag.
The best place to start is the Fisherman’s Bastion. Here the sweeping views of the Danube cost you exactly nothing. Walk across the Chain Bridge at sunset for postcard-worthy sights, then explore Buda Castle’s grounds for free. Just when you think you’ve seen the most beautiful landmark, you turn around and see even prettier!
If you want to relax like royalty, skip the overpriced spas and head to Rudas Baths, where budget-friendly options let you soak in history for less. I’m going to tell you a little secret. Budapest is my favorite on this list!
6. Cusco, Peru
Most people think of Machu Picchu when they hear Cusco, but this city has tons to offer even if you’re on a tight budget.
You can wander the San Blas district, where cobblestone streets lead to colorful markets and stunning views—completely free. Plaza de Armas, the heart of Cusco, is the perfect spot to soak up history, street performances, and colonial charm.
Eating cheap in Cusco is easy and delicious. Local markets serve hearty soups and empanadas for less than a dollar. And if you still dream of visiting Machu Picchu? Take the budget-friendly local bus and hike up yourself. It’s totally worth every step!
7. Prague, Czech Republic
Prague looks like something straight out of a storybook, but unlike many European capitals, it doesn’t drain your wallet.
Start with Charles Bridge, where street musicians, artists, and centuries-old statues create a perfect scene. You guessed it… completely free.
Then, get lost in Old Town Square, where medieval buildings and the famous Astronomical Clock put on a show every hour. If you want the best views, skip the expensive tours and hike up to Petřín Hill. It’s a workout, but your budget (and Instagram) will thank you.
8. Sofia, Bulgaria
If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination where your money stretches far, this is it.
Start at Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece that’s completely free to enter. Then wander through the city’s Roman ruins, casually scattered among modern buildings. For an escape into nature, Vitosha Mountain is right on the city’s doorstep, offering stunning hikes without a price tag.
Food is where Sofia truly shines. You can feast on banitsa (a flaky pastry), shopska salad, and grilled kebapche for just a few bucks. And don’t leave without checking out the open-air flea markets, where you can score unique souvenirs at bargain prices.
9. La Paz, Bolivia
La Paz might take your breath away, literally! At nearly 12,000 feet above sea level, it’s one of the world’s highest cities. But what really stands out? How cheap everything is.
The best way to see the city? Ride the Mi Teleférico cable cars! They’re a sky-high view of La Paz for less than a cup of coffee.
Then, explore the Witches’ Market, where you’ll find everything from traditional potions to handmade souvenirs. If you’re up for adventure, take a local bus to Valle de la Luna. It feels otherworldly, let me tell you that. The landscape? Straight out of a sci-fi movie. Entry’ dirt cheap!
10. Marrakech, Morocco
Marrakech is chaotic, colorful, and ridiculously cheap if you know how to navigate it. The trick? Haggle, eat local, and embrace the energy of the city.
By day, it’s packed with snake charmers, storytellers, and street performers. By night, it transforms into a giant outdoor food market, where steaming tajines and sizzling kebabs cost next to nothing.
The best part? Just walking through the medina (old city) is an experience in itself. I’m talking about free entertainment at every corner.
11. Belgrade, Serbia
Belgrade doesn’t try to impress. It just does! This city delivers history, nightlife, and culture, all without the usual European price tag.
It’s one of those places you have to visit to understand how worth the visit it is. First, walk up to Kalemegdan Fortress, where the views of the confluence of the Danube and Sava Rivers are free (and breathtaking). Stroll down Skadarlija, the city’s bohemian street, where cobblestone paths lead to affordable kafanas (traditional Serbian taverns).
Want to experience Belgrade’s famous nightlife? Floating river bars (splavovi) offer cheap drinks and an unforgettable atmosphere. Let’s not forget the food! It’s delicious, massive, and cheap. Rakija? Be warned, it’s strong!
12. Manila, Philippines
Manila might be chaotic, but it’s also packed with culture, history, and some of the best street food in Asia—all at bargain prices.
Start with Intramuros, the city’s historic heart, where you can wander through centuries-old Spanish-era buildings and cobblestone streets for free. Then, take a jeepney ride for just a few pesos. It’s an experience in itself.
Need a break from the city? Hop on a cheap ferry to Taal Volcano for a budget-friendly nature escape.