11 Summer Travel Destinations That Are Actually Affordable

You don’t need a big budget to have a summer you’ll never forget. I’ve tracked down places where you can bask in the sun, dive into local culture, and still keep your wallet happy. Some are quiet corners of Europe, others are beach escapes that feel far more expensive than they are.

If you’re itching for an adventure that won’t leave your bank account in tears, these 11 destinations are worth a look.

1. Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula

Beyond Cancún’s tourist zones lies a world of affordable adventures. Ancient Mayan ruins, crystal-clear cenotes (natural swimming holes), and colorful colonial towns await budget travelers willing to venture slightly off the beaten path.

Street food here is both delicious and incredibly cheap – think fresh tacos for under a dollar each. Many gorgeous beaches are completely free to visit. Public transportation is reliable and inexpensive, making it easy to explore this fascinating region without renting a car.

2. Greek Islands (Beyond Santorini)

While Santorini commands premium prices, dozens of other Greek islands offer similar charms at a fraction of the cost. Naxos, Paros, and Milos feature those iconic whitewashed buildings and azure waters without the crowds or inflated prices.

Family-run tavernas serve authentic Greek cuisine at reasonable prices. Many islands have excellent public beaches with free access. Accommodations range from budget hotels to affordable vacation rentals, especially if you book a few months ahead or visit in early June or September.

3. Vietnam’s Central Coast

From the ancient lantern-lit streets of Hoi An to the pristine beaches of Da Nang, Central Vietnam delivers extraordinary experiences at astonishingly low prices. A full day of activities might cost what you’d spend on lunch alone in more expensive destinations.

Luxurious beachfront hotels can be found for under $50 per night during summer. The food scene is incredible – fresh, flavorful, and remarkably affordable. You’ll find everything from street food banh mi sandwiches for $1 to seafood feasts for under $10 per person.

4. Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast

If you’ve drooled over photos of Mediterranean beauty but balked at Italian or French Riviera prices, Croatia’s your answer. The Dalmatian Coast offers similar stunning landscapes, historic towns, and crystal waters at significantly lower prices.

Split and the nearby islands provide excellent bases for exploration. Apartment rentals often cost half what you’d pay in Western Europe. Public transportation is efficient and affordable, connecting coastal towns and islands. The food scene features fresh seafood and Italian-influenced cuisine at reasonable prices.

5. Portugal’s Algarve Coast

The stunning beaches along Portugal’s southern coast offer Mediterranean vibes at Atlantic prices. You’ll find dramatic cliffs, golden sand, and charming fishing villages that haven’t been overrun by mass tourism.

Accommodations range from budget-friendly guesthouses to affordable apartment rentals, often at half the price of similar spots in Spain or Italy. Local seafood restaurants serve up fresh catches without the premium price tags you’d expect for such quality.

6. Bali, Indonesia (Away From Resorts)

Skip the luxury resorts and discover the affordable side of this island paradise. In areas like Ubud or less-developed beach towns, you’ll find beautiful accommodations starting around $25 per night, often with private pools or rice field views.

Food costs are remarkably low – a delicious local meal might set you back just $2-3. Transportation, activities, and spa treatments are similarly budget-friendly. Even with airfare from the US or Europe, the overall trip can end up costing less than a week at domestic destinations.

7. Ecuador’s Highland Cities

Historic Quito and charming Cuenca offer incredible value with their blend of colonial architecture, indigenous culture, and stunning Andean landscapes. Summer brings mild temperatures and lower humidity – perfect for exploring these high-altitude gems.

Your dollar stretches remarkably far here. Quality hotels run $30-50 per night, while full meals at good restaurants might cost $5-10. Public transportation is efficient and dirt-cheap. Cultural experiences abound, from colorful markets to museums, many with minimal entrance fees or completely free.

8. Bulgaria’s Black Sea Coast

Eastern Europe’s best-kept secret offers golden beaches, historic towns, and lively resorts at prices that seem from another era. Sunny Beach and Golden Sands provide resort experiences at a fraction of Mediterranean costs.

Expect to pay half what you would in Greece or Spain for similar accommodations and activities. The food is delicious – a blend of Mediterranean and Slavic influences – and remarkably affordable. Bulgaria’s summer climate rivals more expensive European destinations, with warm waters and reliable sunshine from June through September.

9. Northern Thailand

Chiang Mai and the surrounding region offer an incredible cultural experience at prices that seem impossible. Summer brings the green season – occasional rain showers but lush landscapes and fewer tourists.

Comfortable guesthouses start around $15 per night, while luxury boutique hotels might cost what a budget chain would in the US. The food is legendary – both in flavor and value. Temple-hopping, hiking, and cooking classes are just a few affordable activities. Even with the long flight, you’ll spend less here in two weeks than one week in many domestic destinations.

10. Peru (Beyond Machu Picchu)

While Machu Picchu tickets require planning ahead, much of Peru remains accessibly priced and absolutely breathtaking. The Sacred Valley, Lake Titicaca, and colonial Arequipa offer unforgettable experiences without premium pricing.

Summer in North America is winter in Peru – meaning perfect, dry conditions for exploring. Mid-range hotels typically cost $30-60 per night, with meals at good restaurants averaging $5-15. Public transportation is very affordable, though internal flights save time when covering longer distances.

11. Turkish Riviera

Turkey’s southwestern coast combines stunning Mediterranean beaches with ancient ruins and charming towns at prices that will make you wonder why more Americans don’t visit. The exchange rate heavily favors dollar-spending travelers.

Boutique hotels and vacation rentals offer exceptional value compared to similar European destinations. Fresh, delicious Turkish cuisine costs a fraction of what you’d pay elsewhere on the Mediterranean. From the blue lagoon of Ölüdeniz to the historic harbor of Antalya, unforgettable experiences await without the Western European price tag.