15 Cheapest Places to Travel Outside of the US offer amazing experiences without draining your savings. Want to explore stunning beaches, ancient temples, and vibrant cultures while keeping your wallet happy? Many incredible destinations welcome travelers with open arms and budget-friendly prices.
Local street food, comfortable accommodations, and unforgettable experiences await at prices that might shock you. Think beyond expensive tourist spots and discover places where $30 gets you a charming hotel room, $2 buys a delicious local meal, and priceless memories come free of charge. Ready to learn about destinations where you can stay longer, experience more, and spend less?
Let’s explore these budget-friendly countries that prove international travel doesn’t require a big bank account.
#1. Peru
Ancient ruins and vibrant culture await in this South American gem. Wandering through Cusco’s cobblestone streets, you’ll find delicious local meals for under $5. The majestic Machu Picchu stands as the country’s crown jewel, with entrance tickets costing around $45. Many travelers enjoy staying in cozy hostels throughout Peru for just $12 to $15 per night.
Local markets burst with colors and flavors, offering fresh fruits and traditional dishes at incredibly low prices. Taking public transportation between cities keeps costs down, with comfortable bus rides starting at $15. The Sacred Valley presents countless opportunities for hiking and photography without spending much.
Friendly locals often share tips about hidden spots and authentic restaurants. Mountain views come free of charge, while guided tours to archaeological sites typically cost less than $40.
#2. Vietnam
Charming streets and mouthwatering street food make Vietnam a budget traveler’s paradise. Traditional pho noodle soup costs merely $2 from local vendors, while fresh spring rolls go for less than $1.
Accommodations in bustling Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City start at $8 for hostels and $20 for private rooms. Stunning Halong Bay offers day trips from $35, including kayaking and lunch. Rice terraces stretch endlessly across the countryside, providing free natural entertainment.
Night markets buzz with energy and bargains, where shopping rarely breaks the bank. Local buses and trains connect major cities for just a few dollars. Coffee culture thrives here, with strong Vietnamese coffee costing about $1. Beach lovers can relax on pristine shores without spending much, as most beaches are public and free.
#3. Portugal
Sun-soaked Portugal welcomes visitors with open arms and modest prices. Lisbon’s historic neighborhoods offer countless free walking opportunities and viewpoints. Fresh seafood dinners in local restaurants typically cost $10 to $15.
Train rides between major cities remain affordable, usually under $25. Small cafes serve pastéis de nata (custard tarts) for about $1.50. Accommodation options include hostels from $15 and apartments from $40.
Porto’s wine cellars provide tours and tastings starting at $5. Beautiful beaches line the Algarve coast, offering free days of sun and surf. Local markets sell fresh produce at bargain prices. Public transportation within cities costs around $1.50 per ride. Museums often offer free admission on Sundays.
#4. Thailand
Tropical bliss meets affordability in Thailand’s diverse landscape. Street food stalls serve pad thai and curry dishes for $1 to $2. Beach bungalows on stunning islands start at $15 per night.
Buddhist temples welcome visitors with minimal entrance fees, usually $3 or less. Local transportation via tuk-tuks costs a few dollars per ride. Island hopping tours run about $20 to $30 for full-day adventures.
Fresh fruit smoothies refresh for less than $1. Night markets provide endless entertainment and shopping opportunities. Massage services help you relax for $5 to $10 per hour. Cooking classes teach authentic Thai cuisine for $25. Clean and comfortable hostels in Bangkok start at $10.
#5. Mexico
Rich culture combines with reasonable prices throughout Mexico. Authentic street tacos cost around $1 each in most cities. Comfortable hotels in colonial towns start at $30 per night. Ancient Mayan ruins like Chichen Itza charge entrance fees of about $25. Local buses connect destinations safely and cheaply.
Fresh agua frescas cool you down for less than $2. Colorful markets sell handmade crafts at negotiable prices. Beautiful beaches offer free days of relaxation. Small restaurants serve complete meals for $5 to $8. Museums often reduce prices on Sundays. Traditional cooking classes teach authentic recipes for $25 to $30.
#6. Hungary
This European gem sparkles with affordable charm and rich history. Wandering through Budapest’s streets, you’ll discover stunning architecture at every turn. Thermal baths offer relaxation for around $20 daily.
Local restaurants serve hearty goulash and traditional dishes for $7-10. Budget hotels and hostels provide comfortable stays starting at $15 nightly. Public transport tickets cost merely $1.50 per ride. Street food vendors sell delicious lángos (fried bread with toppings) for $3. Stunning castle views come free of charge from many spots.
Ruin bars transform old buildings into unique hangout spots where beers cost $2. Museums often offer student discounts and free days. Train trips to nearby towns run about $10 round trip. Local markets burst with fresh produce and handmade goods at reasonable prices.
#7. Indonesia
Thousands of islands create endless possibilities for budget travelers here. Simple guesthouses on Bali start at $20 nightly. Street food vendors offer tasty nasi goreng (fried rice) for $2. Public ferries connect major islands affordably.
Temple visits usually require only small donations. Snorkeling gear rentals cost about $5 daily near beautiful beaches. Local warungs (family restaurants) serve complete meals for $3-4. Mountain treks include guided tours for reasonable prices. Fresh coconuts refresh you for less than $1.
Traditional markets sell colorful batik fabrics at negotiable prices. Scooter rentals help explore islands for $5 daily. Cultural shows showcase local dances for minimal entrance fees.
#8. Morocco
Colorful markets and ancient medinas create magical moments without high costs. Riads (traditional houses) offer atmospheric stays from $25 nightly. Local food stalls serve tagines filled with flavors for $5.
Mint tea flows endlessly for less than $1 per glass. Desert tours include camel rides and camping under stars from $80. Public hammams (bathhouses) charge $2-3 for entry. Markets overflow with spices, textiles, and crafts at bargainable prices.
Local buses connect major cities cheaply. Street vendors sell fresh orange juice for 50 cents. Guided medina tours cost about $15. Mountain day trips run around $30 with transport included.
#9. Colombia
Natural beauty meets cultural richness in this South American destination. Boutique hostels provide beds from $12 nightly. Fresh fruit vendors sell exotic treats for pocket change. Coffee tours show you premium beans for $15.
Local buses transport you between cities affordably. Small restaurants serve filling menu del día (daily menu) for $4. Cable cars lift you to stunning viewpoints for $3. Salsa classes teach basic moves for $10 per hour.
Beach access comes free along both coasts. Street food offerings include arepas for $1. Local markets sell handmade crafts at reasonable prices. Museum entries often cost less than $5.
#10. Turkey
Rich history blends with modern life at surprisingly low costs. Traditional Turkish breakfasts fill you up for $5. Comfortable hotels in historic areas start at $30 nightly. Famous Turkish baths pamper you for $20.
Street vendors sell simit (circular bread) for 50 cents. Public transport between cities runs efficiently and cheaply. Magnificent mosques welcome visitors without charge. Kebab shops serve tasty meals for $3-4.
Rooftop terraces offer city views with tea for $2. Ancient ruins charge modest entrance fees. Bazaars sell spices, textiles, and crafts at negotiable prices. Boat trips along the coast cost about $20 daily.
#11. Sri Lanka
Tropical paradise meets cultural heritage in this island nation. Guest houses near stunning beaches start at $20 nightly. Local restaurants serve spicy curries and fresh seafood for $3-5.
Train rides through tea plantations cost just $1-2, offering breathtaking views. Ancient temples welcome visitors for small donations. Tuk-tuks zip around cities for $2-3 per ride. Fresh coconuts quench your thirst for 50 cents.
Safari tours spot wild elephants for $30. Street markets sell aromatic spices and local crafts affordably. Bus rides between cities run efficiently for a few dollars. Surfing lessons teach basics for $20. Home-cooked meals introduce you to authentic flavors for $4.
#12. Cambodia
Ancient wonders and warm smiles greet visitors in this Southeast Asian gem. Hostels offer clean rooms from $8 nightly. Street food vendors serve tasty noodles for $1-2. Angkor Wat passes provide temple access for $37 daily.
Local markets burst with fresh fruits for pocket change. River boats cruise between towns for $10. Traditional massages relax you for $5 hourly. Food stalls dish out fresh spring rolls for 50 cents. Bicycle rentals help explore temples for $2 daily.
Village tours show rural life for $15. Night markets sell colorful scarves and crafts at low prices. Bus travel connects major sites cheaply.
#13. Greece
Mediterranean charm flows through this historic land. Small hotels in local neighborhoods charge $35 nightly. Gyros wraps fill hungry travelers for $3. Island ferries connect paradise spots from $20. Ancient ruins offer student discounts on entry fees. Local tavernas serve fresh seafood for $10. Beach access comes free on most islands. Street vendors sell sweet baklava for $2. Public buses run between towns affordably. Fresh Greek salads cost $5 in family restaurants. Local wines complement meals for $3 per glass. Museums reduce prices during off-season months.
#14. Philippines
Island hopping becomes affordable in this tropical archipelago. Beachfront cottages welcome guests from $25 nightly. Street food markets serve barbecue skewers for 50 cents. Island boat tours cost $15 daily.
Local jeepneys transport passengers between towns for coins. Fresh mango smoothies refresh for $1. Snorkeling trips reveal underwater beauty for $20. Night markets offer seafood feasts for $5.
Tricycles zip through town for $1 rides. Mountain hikes show stunning views without fees. Local restaurants serve complete meals for $3. Beach massages relax you for $8 hourly.
#15. South Africa
Wildlife meets wine country in this diverse nation. Backpacker lodges provide beds from $15 nightly. Local markets serve traditional boboties for $4. National parks offer affordable wildlife viewing.
Wine tastings introduce local varieties for $5. Public minibuses connect cities cheaply. Street vendors sell boerewors rolls for $2. Hiking trails show dramatic landscapes freely. Local breweries serve craft beers for $3. Township tours share cultural insights for $25. Beach access comes without charge.
Food markets dish out fresh bunny chow for $3. Surf lessons teach basics for $20. Museums charge modest entrance fees. Adventure activities fit various budgets. Cultural shows display local traditions affordably.