Top 20 Cheap Places to Visit in 2025: Ultimate Budget Travel Guide & Tips
Introduction –
Have you ever dreamt of travelling the globe but worried that your wallet might not make it? You’re not the only one. The myth that cheap places to travel is expensive in real but has kept a lot of wanderlust souls grounded, but the reality is that some of the world’s most amazing destinations are quite cheap to visit. If you are a backpacker looking for an adventure, a family in search of cheap vacations and holiday destinations or simply a person planning a budget tour who wants to get the most out of your vacation experiences without breaking your bank, then there are numerous cheap places to visit which have rich cultures, beautiful nature and are memorable.
Smart travelers of today’s budget travel world know that with the right information, plan, and reliable travel booking websites, you can enjoy luxury holiday destinations on a shoestring. The affordable travel destinations, cheap holiday destinations and affordable vacation destinations are the gems of Southeast Asia, the emerging European hotspots and the rest of the world in general. So, the thing is to know the places to go and the way to give your money more value.
This guide lists the top 20 most affordable countries to visit and cheap vacation spots in 2025, along with the daily budget and insider secrets to help you make your next affordable trip come true. The accuracy and comprehensiveness of these budget-friendly destinations have been researched and verified. If you are looking for low-cost holidays in exotic locations, planning your next vacation, searching for the cheap places to travel in the world or organizing a budget tour where you can have authentic experiences, then you are sure to find something in this list for your kind of budget traveler.
1. Laos – $27/Day
In 2025 Laos is going to be one of the cheap places to travel in the world, making it a perfect holiday destination for budget tour enthusiasts, whereby it would be a dream destination for budget travelers who want to have a real Southeast Asian experience. Despite being a country without access to the sea, it offers amazing wonders at very low prices such as temples that are listed in the World Heritage List by UNESCO in Luang Prabang, the great Kuang Si waterfalls and the very calm capital of Vientiane. The country’s slow pace and beautiful unspoiled nature make it a nice getaway from the more popular ones in the neighborhood.
One of the main reasons why Laos is so cheap to live in is the fact that the country is blessed with very cheap and reasonably priced accommodation options, excellent street food that can be had for less than $2 per meal, and quite affordable local transportation. There are guesthouses that cost no more than $5-8 per night where one can stay and local buses and tuk-tuks are relatively cheap. The development of the country’s tourism sector means that you will have the luxury of sometimes having the attractions there in front of you, thus, you get the feeling of being the only one and at the same time paying backpacker prices.
2. Kazakhstan – $19/Day
For 2025, Kazakhstan is an unexpected cheap travel destination that shines for those seeking cheap vacations on a small budget. The Central Asian country offers amazing and remarkable adventures for low costs. This gigantic country is full of gorgeous scenery starting from the Caspian Sea and going up to the Altai Mountains, it also has some very modern cities like Almaty and the quite futuristic capital, Nur-Sultan. With the country’s rich nomadic heritage and the remnants of the Soviet era, you get an eclectic mix of culture that is not only fascinating but also affordable.
The low daily budget in Kazakhstan is enough to cover a stay in a local guesthouse, meals of local/traditional food (horse meat and koumiss) and an extensive public transportation network. Moreover, there are many places (such as national parks and monuments of culture) where the pay for entry is very low, so it is easy to make a diverse tour of the country without spending too much money.
3. Thailand – Budget Travel Paradise at $37/Day
Thailand remains among the cheap places to visit and most sought-after vacation spots globally, making it an ideal holiday destination for budget tour packages that offer a combination of exotic beaches, historical temples and lively cities at incredibly low prices. It offers an extremely diverse and plentiful experience to tourists of all types ranging from the madness of Bangkok to the perfect islands of the south. Moreover, its tourism infrastructure which is quite developed, makes it easy and very convenient for the first time visitors of Southeast Asia.
The street food scene which is nothing less than a culture is perfect in Thailand as in just $1-3 you can get a delicious meal and accommodation ranges from $8 hostels to $25 mid-range hotels. In addition to that, the bus and train services that cover almost all the places make the commute not only cheap but also very easy. Their perfect mix of natural wonders such as the pristine beaches, the rich cultural heritage of the country and the tradition of hospitality that has gone down in history are still the reasons why Thailand keeps on being ranked as the best budget trip destination for the people all over the world.
4. Vietnam – $45/Day
Vietnam is known as one of the most worthwhile vacation destinations and holiday spots by people who travel the world, offering excellent budget tour opportunities. It is a perfect combination of stunning nature, rich history and delicious meals that can be eaten surprisingly at very low prices. Beautiful Ho Chi Minh city, magnificent Halong Bay, and lovely colonial-styled Hoi An are only the first step to what Vietnam has in store for you.
Indeed, the country allows the most varied experiences, with something suitable for everyone’s likes and budget.
Vietnam’s street food scene proves this point perfectly, as street food is not only abundant but also extremely cheap. it usually would cost no more than $3-4 per day to eat pho, banh mi, and fresh spring rolls are available even for the least experienced foreigners who dare to walk around the streets and try the food. Accommodation is priced between $6 for a dormitory bed and $30 for a private room in a boutique hotel. Vietnam is home to the well-publicized bus system and low ticket price domestic flights, which is why traveling the whole country by a budget traveler is not a problem at all.
5. Rwanda – Affordable Travel Destination at $20/Day
Rwanda has become one of the safest and most affordable destinations in Africa, and it offers great value to those who want to have authentic African experiences. Labeled as the “Land of a Thousand Hills”, the country provides visitors with the necessary facilities to hike with mountain gorillas, visit untouched national parks and get firsthand knowledge about the country’s amazing comeback and progress.
One of the main facts that have not changed is that gorilla permits are still quite expensive and that’s why Rwanda is not the best place for extremely tight-budget travelers. However, the ones that are ready to spend a little bit more are not barred from visiting Rwanda and experiencing the country’s beautiful lakes, traditional villages and vibrant markets besides seeing the gorillas. Besides, the costs of local accommodation, food and transport are quite reasonable. Besides that, the small size of the country makes it possible to have a tour of various destinations cheaply.
6. Turkey – $47/Day
Turkey is a country that is both bridging and linking Europe and Asia, not only geographically but also culturally and consequently is offering an extremely diverse holiday and vacation experience at very attractive budget tour prices. The fairy chimneys of Cappadocia, the ancient ruins of Ephesus and the vibrant bazaars of Istanbul, all these are a few of the endless things to do or see that Turkey has to offer.
Firstly, the country’s favorable exchange rates make everything from accommodation to dining very cheap for foreign visitors. Turkish food is not only tasty but also cheap and if you want to eat on the go, you can get a döner kebab, simit and Turkish tea for only a few dollars. In addition, public transportation is convenient, and the country’s diverse past ensures that you will always stumble upon interesting places to visit no matter which region you go to.
7. Romania – $50/Day
Romania is among the most affordable countries to visit and inexpensive countries to visit in Europe, offering cheap vacations and still manages to save the things for which the continent is known: centuries-old castles, stunning mountain landscapes and vibrant cities. If you are looking to immerse yourself in the culture of the region while saving the amount that you would have spent in Western Europe, then it is an ideal place to visit.
The country has the mountains, river and old towns of the rustic Europe that are just as good as the expensive ones in the western part of the continent. Paying for a hotel, eating and sightseeing are all about half the price of what you can do in the neighboring countries, but the quality of the experiences is still very high.
8. Peru – Cheap Vacation Spot at $55/Day
Peru offers the most amazing holiday attractions and the most wonderful vacation experiences through affordable budget tour packages at very cheap prices. Therefore, it is one of the most accessible countries of South America. Besides being the home of Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley and colorful cities like Cusco and Lima, Peru is the cheapest destination in the world if you are willing to make a trip that includes both outdoor adventure and cultural immersion activities.
Despite that Machu Picchu is a place that requires a ticket bought in advance and that the visit is of a moderate spending level, the rest of the places to see in Peru are super affordable. In fact, the country’s diversity in nature is made up of the Amazon rainforest, deserts at very high altitudes and the shore along the Pacific Ocean, all of which can be reached by staying at budget accommodations and using the affordable local transport. Peruvian food, whether it is from a food stall or a restaurant is a great bargain and can be hard to forget because of the taste.
9. Georgia – $35/Day
Georgia is now one of the cheapest hidden gems of Europe, perfect for cheap vacations, which has captivated visitors with the amazing mountain beauty, the revival of the wine culture and the incredibly friendly atmosphere at amazing low prices. It is a country in the Caucasus that gives almost everyone the chance to enter without a visa and offers a unique mix of the Old and the New World which is very refreshing.
It is quite possible to visit the country’s legendary vineyards, picturesque mountains and the lovely city of Tbilisi even with a limited budget. Georgian food is amazing and very cheap, and places to sleep are from cheap guesthouses to middle-range hotels at a price that one would pay for a bed in a hostel in Western Europe.
10. Armenia – Affordable Vacation Destination at $32/Day
For a very reasonable price, Armenia is a combination of the ancient past, breathtaking nature and a true warmth of the people. Beyond being a perfect place for those who are passionate about the earliest Christian history, the peculiar architecture of the Soviet-era and the impressive mountain view, this tiny Caucasus country is an absolute bargain for travelers.
Recently listed among the top destinations for the next year, Armenia is rapidly making its name in the travel world while still managing to be a budget destination.
Thanks to the country’s small size, it is possible to visit many regions without spending too much on transportation. Not only is Armenian food tasty and cheap but also the country’s diverse cultural heritage that features ancient monasteries, the revival of Armenian musical instruments and the arts scene can be experienced at a low cost.
11. Sri Lanka – $30/Day
Sri Lanka is a fabulous mix of nature and culture and is still a great value for money after the recent economic changes that have made it very cheap for international visitors. This island nation is the combination of beautiful beaches, old temples, verdant tea plantations and wildlife reserves all in an area that is ideal for budget travelers with less time.
The country’s wonderful train system offers amazing rides at very low prices, while staying in a range of $8 guesthouses to $25 boutique hotels. Sri Lankan food is nice and cheap too, and a plate of rice with curry can be bought for only a few dollars. The island’s cultural and natural diversity means not having to spend a lot of money while experiencing something new every day.
12. Bolivia – $40/Day
Bolivia is home to some of the most bizarre and one of the cheapest landscapes of South America, and this is the main reason why it is the perfect place for money-savvy adventure tourists. The adventures that can be done in Bolivia are countless and it is a dream coming true for both nature and outdoor fans. One can experience the perfectly mirrored Salar de Uyuni, the most rugged mountaintops of La Paz and be very close to the rarest animals of the Amazon basin without making a lot of money.
Despite the harshness and the altitude, the country remains very inexpensive to live in with accommodation, food and transportation being quite cheap. The local markets are great if you want to have a really good meal for less than $3 and you can also find a very nice room in a hostel or a guesthouse for $10-15 per night. The peculiar landscapes of Bolivia and the very diverse and colorful indigenous culture will become your travel souvenirs forever.
13. Nicaragua – Cheap Places to Travel at $38/Day
Nicaragua is the most affordable destination in Central America that offers great value for money thereby making it possible to travel to the rest of the countries by being the most expensive ones especially Costa Rica. This country of scare tourists is combining the Pacific and the Caribbean coastlines, the volcanoes, the colonial cities and the unspoiled natural reserves all that for a price that makes an extended trip very doable for those on a tight budget.
Due to the developing tourism sector in the country, you will find yourself frequently around places that are not the usual tourist spots. Hence, you will be able to enjoy the authentic life of ordinary people and at their prices. Nicaraguan cuisine is tasty and affordable and there lodging varieties for every budget. It is also great to visit different places within the country where the distance is not that far and the buses are the most common means of transport, this way you can travel to many places at a minimum cost.
14. South Africa – $45/Day
South Africa is even more affordable by a big margin for tourists coming from abroad, the exchange rate changes made it 75% cheaper than 10 years ago. This four seasons country, despite its cheap prices, provides you with spoiled wildlife, beautiful beaches and lively cities and also allows you to immerse yourself in its rich and unique culture.
Not only will lower-cost travel be safe and comfortable because of the excellent infrastructure in the country, but the favorable exchange rates will make your money go a longer way than in other safari destinations. The beauty of Cape Town, the wildlife of Kruger National Park and the Garden Route are some of the best experiences that South Africa has to offer at affordable prices.
15. Albania (Tirana) – $35/Day
Albania is now Europe’s best-kept secret, offering all the beauty of the Mediterranean and the charm of the Balkans at less than one-third of the price of Greece or Italy. The country is a blend of beautiful beaches, high mountains, lively ancientness and friendly people and is a perfect spot for those who wish to see the real Europe but do not want to be in the center of the masses or spend a lot of money.
Albanian dishes are a good example of the country’s position in the Mediterranean with such products as fresh fish, wines of local origin and typical mountain dishes, which are not expensive at all. The small size of the country and the constantly improving transportation network have made it easy to visit several places in one trip, such as the Albanian Riviera and the historical towns of Berat and Gjirokaster without spending much money.
16. India – Budget Travel Haven at $25/Day
India is one of the best budget travel destinations and one of the cheap places to travel in the world for holiday and vacation seekers. It is known for its great variety and rich culture, which it offers at very low costs. The snow-covered Himalayas in the north, the tropical beaches in the south, the ancient temples, the crowded cities and the calm backwaters are all there in India providing countless experiences for the different kinds of travelers. Because of the large area of the country, it is possible to discover new things for months without coming to the end of the discoveries in India.
What really makes India a bargain travel destination is the mixture of super-cheap places to stay, mouthwatering street food that will not cost you more than $1 and the vast transport network. There are some hostels and guesthouses that cost only $3-8 per night, local trains and buses are there for people who want to travel long distances at very low prices. The country’s differing terrain, such as the deserts of Rajasthan, the backwaters of Kerala and the beaches of Goa allows for amazing experiences at the cost of a backpacker.
17. Nepal – $20/Day
Nepal has some of the most amazing mountain views in the world at incredible budget-friendly prices of just $20/day, making it one of the most beautiful, affordable or cheap places to visit in the world. Moreover, it is a paradise for trekkers and culture lovers. The eight highest peaks out of the ten in the world are in Nepal along with the combination of nature that is absolutely breathtaking and the typical Buddhist and Hindu cultures, ancient temples and the warm mountain hospitality provide a magnificent stay.
Cheap living in the country cover all the way from lodging and food to trekking permits, domestic flights and cultural experiences. Most of the time in mountains, the traditional dal bhat meal cost only about $2-3 but it would be enough for you to have a good and hearty nutrition. Additionally, teahouses along the trekking routes give you the opportunity to stay at very basic accommodation, which usually costs less than $5 a night. Nepal is a small country with well-laid out trekking facilities therefore, it is an ideal place for those who want to have a top-class mountain adventure but want to avoid the high prices of other mountain destinations.
18. Cambodia – Inexpensive Vacation Destination at $29/Day
Cambodia has been able to charm budget travelers with luxurious temples of the past, houses on stilts and a culture that has survived all this time, all of which are very reasonably priced to get in. The beautiful Angkor Wat temple complex not far from Siem Reap is one of the most incredible archaeological sites in the world and on the other hand, Phnom Penh the capital is a city that tells the country’s complex history and its vibrant present.
Cambodian food is not only tasty but also cheap and Khmer curry, fresh spring rolls and tropical fruits are always at hand and they cost only a few dollars. On the one hand, the downfall of the transportation system in the country and the growing influx of tourists are offering visitors cozy travel possibilities, but on the other hand, the prices are still budget-friendly. The blend of cultural richness, historical importance and perfect nature of Cambodia is letting it people go home with memories of their trips to this country without spending much money.
19. Indonesia – $25/Day
Indonesia remains to be one of the greatest value destinations for adventurous budget travelers who are eager to experience the wonders of the tropical paradises with over 17,000 islands extending to the horizon. The spree from Bali’s iconic beaches and rice terraces to Java’s ancient temples and active volcanoes, Sumatra’s orangutans and immaculate rainforests, is nothing but boundless diversity that caters to every traveler’s mood and interest.
The affordable prices of the country are valid for all the aspects of travel such as $5 guesthouses and $1 street food and also low-priced domestic flights and ferry rides between the different islands. The food of Indonesia is very delicious, as it is both varied and very cheap. The local warungs (small restaurants) are providing tasty meals for just a few dollars. One could travel around the archipelago, which is very huge and be very diverse and still have a low daily budget for months.
20. Bangladesh – $18/Day
One of the most genuine and cheapest travel experiences in Asia that Bangladesh can offer is the combination of incredibly hospitable people, rich cultural heritage and unique natural attractions at rock-bottom prices. The country is home to the world’s largest mangrove forest in the Sundarbans, has the vibrant river life along the numerous rivers and the cities like Dhaka which are full of traditional South Asian culture.
What is best about Bangladesh is that it is an exceptionally budget-friendly minimal tourism infrastructure that keeps the prices at local levels rather than at tourist rates. Eating at local restaurants will cost you between $1 – $2, while you can take basic accommodation for $3 – $5 per night. The country’s long and extensive river transport system offers a beautiful and cheap way of traveling, while its being off the common tourist trail is a guarantee for meeting and conversing with some of the world’s friendliest people in an authentic way.
Conclusion
Holiday and vacation planning in 2025 sees more budget tour possibilities than ever before. These 20 cheap places to travel, including some of the cheapest places to travel in the world are proving that you don’t need to spend a fortune to have a great time. Temples of Laos, safaris of South Africa, the list of affordable travel destinations covers all continents and caters to every hobby.
The secret to a successful budget tour or holiday vacation is to select a cheap places to travel where your money can buy you the most beautiful and at the same time, the most authentic and memorable experiences. Using reliable travel booking websites and travel sites can help you find the best deals for cheap places to travel.
These most affordable countries to visit and inexpensive vacation destinations have been researched thoroughly for the lowest cost but still give the local people the highest potential for a good life and for tourists, a memorable stay. They are low on daily costs but high on quality of life. If you are a newbie and this is going to be your first international adventure, or you are an experienced traveler looking for new, cheap frontiers, these destinations will always be a good choice for the beginning of your next journey.
Keep in mind that cheap places to travel doesn’t mean just spending less money, it is about maximizing experiences, which entail connecting with local people and discovering that some of the world’s most wonderful places are also the cheapest ones. Take a trip to one of these incredible places and watch your travel budget stretch further. Check out the Travel category for more information about cheap places to travel
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the daily budget estimates made for cheap places to travel?
A: Daily budgets are basically for accommodation (dormitory or budget private room), meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner – generally street food and local restaurants), local transportation and basic sightseeing. Daily budgets do not cover the cost of international flights, alcoholic beverages, shopping or luxury activities such as guided tours.
Q: Are these locations good for people traveling alone who looking for cheap places to travel?
A: The majority of the places mentioned in this list are generally seen as safe for people traveling alone with a special emphasis on Georgia, Romania, Thailand and South Africa. Still, it is always a good idea to look up the present safety conditions, inform your embassy about where you are going and take the usual safety measures no matter where you are going.
Q: What is the best time to see these cheap places to travel?
A: The best time depends on the place, but normally the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) are the most suitable time to go as you can enjoy nice weather and still pay less. If you want to get the most out of your money and the least amount of people it is better not to go in the peak seasons.
Q:Are these countries required to have visas?
A: The need for a visa depends on the place where you want to go and your nationality. Several countries such as Georgia, Armenia, etc provide free visa access to a large number of nationals. It is advisable to verify the validity of visa requirements in advance of your trip.
Q: How can my money go further in these places?
A: Choose accommodation in hostels or guesthouses, eat at street stalls and local markets, travel by bus or subway, find the walking tours that don’t charge you, go to the attractions which are free like parks and beaches and think about staying there for a longer time so that you can get cheaper rates at accommodations.
Q: Are the following budget estimates feasible for a relaxed trip?
A: Indeed, these budgets permit a comfy backpacker-style journey having the availability of private rooms from time to time, an extensive choice of food and the possibility of visiting the main attractions. It is possible to travel at a lower cost if one stays in a dormitory and eats only basic meals or at a higher cost if one prefers greater comfort.
Q: What are the best value destinations to travel as cheap vacation spots?
A: According to our study Laos, Kazakhstan and Thailand are the three best countries where you can have the most value for your money during your holiday or vacation. They not only provide very low daily costs but also a wide variety of budget tour experiences. These cheap places to travel, including what many consider the cheapest place to travel in the world, are giving very attractive prices for excellent infrastructure, safety and cultural richness.
Q: How are these most affordable countries to visit and inexpensive countries to visit suitable for the different types of travel?
A: They definitely are! These low-cost holiday spots provide what is needed for the different types of travelers including backpackers, families, couples and luxury travelers on a budget. Every country in the world with the cheapest rates to visit can be an option of different comfort and preference levels for the travelers.
Q: What are the best travel booking websites and travel sites for booking these budget destinations?
A: While we focus on destination costs, popular travel sites and travel booking websites like Booking.com, Agoda, Expedia and local platforms often offer the best deals for these holiday destinations and budget tour packages. Always compare prices across multiple travel booking websites to find the cheapest place to travel in the world for your specific dates.
Q: Which cheap places to travel is the best?
A: Based on our research, the most affordable countries to visit for cheap vacations include Laos ($27/day), Kazakhstan ($19/day) and Thailand ($37/day). These inexpensive vacation destinations provide excellent value while offering diverse experiences for every type of traveler.
