If you’ve been dreaming about an exotic vacation but think you can’t afford it, think again. These affordable destinations around the world offer the best value, which could help turn that dream into a reality. From picture-perfect European cities to coastal hotspots and Caribbean islands, these are the top budget-friendly destinations to add to your growing bucket list.
Porto, Portugal
Portugal is considered one of the most affordable Western European destinations, less expensive than its neighbor Spain as well as the popular Greek Islands. It also retains much of its old-world charm and is dotted with ancient castles, picturesque fishing villages, and endless olive groves. Porto, the nation’s second-biggest city, offers especially budget-friendly and accommodation, along with inexpensive museums and tours, yet it’s filled with a wealth of delights, like its historic center that dates back to 300 BC, a colorful riverside quarter, world-famous port wine houses and dramatic 12th-Century Romanesque cathedrals.
La Paz, Baja California, Mexico
Just about any destination in Baja offers the opportunity for an affordable vacation, but La Paz arguably tops them all. This peaceful town not only offers lots to see and do, but it provides a more authentic experience without the crowds, and at a much lower price than popular Cabo. From November through April, it’s one of the world’s best places for whale watching, with some 18,000 California gray whales migrating toward the area’s lagoons where they spend the winter. This is also a fantastic time for swimming with whale sharks, sea lions, manta rays, and the hundreds of colorful, tropical fish in the Sea of Cortez. No matter when you arrive, you’ll be able to dine on mouth-watering meals, many of which include fresh seafood and organic produce, for a fraction of the cost of what you’d pay in the states.
Bac Son Valley, Vietnam
Vietnam is well-known as a budget destination, but the region north of Hanoi is often overlooked. While it’s even more affordable, it’s also home to some of the most stunning scenery and culture, with soaring mountains, rice terraces, and more. Budget travelers can book private accommodation for only $10-15 a night or dorms as low as $5. Camping out on the beach is a relatively easy and free option too, and meals range from just 50 cents to a couple of dollars a dish.
Ljubljana, Slovenia
Tucked in an alpine valley along the Ljubljana River, this capital city looks as if it’s part of a fairy-tale. Often ranked as Eastern Europe’s most beautiful city, Ljubljana is not only romantic, a bit quirky, and very walkable, but it’s also incredibly affordable. You can wander charming cobblestone streets lined with interesting museums and art galleries, as well as hip bars and charming cafes that offer lots of fun after dark. At the hilltop castle, learn about Slovenian history in the interactive museum and then take in the jaw-dropping view of the city and well beyond from the tower.
St. Maarten
While St. Maarten itself isn’t exactly known as a cheap destination, it is home to beachfront resorts that offer outstanding value. A popular place for honeymooners and beach lovers alike, it’s beloved around the world for its picture-perfect coastline and range of outdoor adventures you can add to your bucket list.
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Myrtle Beach is renowned as one of the best budget-friendly family beach destinations, and you’ll find a number of good, affordable accommodation options. In addition to its alluring coastline, you’ll find lots of things to do here, including its iconic boardwalk and promenade. Head to the top of the SkyWheel for city views, hop on a bike and cruise through the adorable coastal town, or try a round of mini-golf.
Vieques, Puerto Rico
If you’re seeking an affordable Caribbean destination, room rates in Puerto Rico pale in comparison to other islands in the region. Fly into the capital city of San Juan, to explore the numerous cultural attractions and experience the lively nightlife, and then take the ferry to Vieques Island, just a few dollars round-trip, to relax and soak in the sunshine on miles of secluded sandy beaches. Blue Beach is famous for outstanding snorkeling with an abundance of colorful fish as well as giant sea turtles. You’ll also see plenty of wild horses, which run rampant across the island and can even enjoy a romantic horseback ride along the beach.
Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia
Bolivia is one of the most spectacular and underrated destinations on the planet. It’s long been a favorite among adventure travelers and backpackers due to the scenery, a wealth of things to do, and being remarkably affordable. It’s also home to the largest salt flat in the world, Salar de Uyuni. Located in the Bolivian Andes, the expanse of salt creates an unending white landscape during the dry season, though the area is most breathtaking in the rainy season when it’s covered in water. The reflection of the blue sky creates an even more surreal landscape.
Nicaragua
Nicaragua is another ideal destination that backpackers have known about for years, but all types of travelers have been discovering it as of late. It’s loaded with fantastic, budget-friendly options. The country’s peaceful wilderness is full of beautiful views and colonial culture. Make sure to stay in Granada for a while to check out the architecture and then head to Laguna de Apoyo to see the volcanic lake.
