Ready to find the world without emptying your wallet? Start planning your next path today and find out how far your money can really go. Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing surprising experiences or settling for less.
Finding cheap countries to visit opens doors to incredible cultures, beautiful landscapes, and unforgettable memories while keeping your expenses low.
Many destinations around the globe offer rich experiences at a fraction of the cost you’d spend in popular tourist hotspots.
From Southeast Asia’s tropical beaches to Eastern Europe’s historic cities, budget-friendly travel spots welcome visitors with delicious street food and inexpensive transportation.
Even if you’re a backpacker, digital nomad, or family seeking value, these affordable destinations prove that dream trips are within reach for everyone.
Top Cheap Countries You Can Visit
Budget travelers can find incredible destinations worldwide without breaking the bank or sacrificing memorable experiences.
1. Vietnam
Image source: Outlook Travel Magazine
Vietnam combines natural beauty with incredibly low prices for travelers. From bustling Hanoi streets to peaceful Mekong Delta waterways. This is one of the best and also a very cheap countries to visit in the world.
You’ll find delicious pho and banh mi on every corner, while scenic spots like Ha Long Bay create postcard-perfect memories.
- Accommodation: $8-15 per night for hostels and budget guesthouses
- Meals: $3-8 daily for street food and local restaurants
- Transportation: $1-3 for local buses and motorbike rentals
- SIM Card: $5-10 for monthly data packages
2. Thailand
Image source: Travel + Leisure
Thailand remains a favorite among budget travelers seeking a tropical paradise combined with cultural richness. They welcome visitors who enjoy affordable beach resorts.
Even if you’re finding Bangkok’s bustling streets or relaxing on Krabi’s white sand beaches, your money stretches remarkably far.
- Accommodation: $10-18 per night for basic rooms and hostels
- Meals: $2-7 daily eating at local food stalls
- Transportation: $1-4 for tuk-tuks and local transportation
- SIM Card: $8-12 for tourist data packages
3. Indonesia
Image source: Lonely Planet
Indonesia’s 17,000 islands provide lasting opportunities for budget-conscious enthusiasts. Beyond Bali’s popular beaches, you’ll check out gems like Java’s ancient temples.
The country’s diverse culture and warm hospitality create welcoming environments for travelers.
- Accommodation: $7-14 per night for simple guesthouses
- Meals: $2-6 daily for Indonesian cuisine
- Transportation: $0.50-3 for local buses and ferries
- SIM Card: $5-10 for prepaid data plans
4. Cambodia
Image source: Britannica
Cambodia attracts visitors with its ancient temples and resilient spirit while remaining extremely budget-friendly.
Angkor Wat’s magnificent ruins draw travelers worldwide, but the entire country offers affordable exploration opportunities.
- Accommodation: $6-12 per night for hostels and budget hotels
- Meals: $2-5 daily for Khmer dishes
- Transportation: $1-3 for tuk-tuks and buses
- SIM Card: $5-8 for monthly data
5. Laos
Image source: Butterfield & Robinson
Laos offers tranquil beauty and authentic experiences away from mass tourism crowds. This landlocked nation is beautiful for visitors with Buddhist temples and structure.
Luang Prabang’s morning alms ceremony and Vang Vieng’s karst landscapes create unforgettable moments.
- Accommodation: $8-15 per night for basic lodging
- Meals: $3-6 daily for local food
- Transportation: $2-5 for buses between cities
- SIM Card: $4-8 for data packages
6. Nepal
Image source: Britannica
Nepal delivers breathtaking Himalayan vistas and spiritual experiences at remarkably low costs. Trekkers find affordable mountain view, and stupas offer cultural immersion.
The combination of Hindu and Buddhist traditions creates a unique atmosphere found nowhere else.
- Accommodation: $5-12 per night for teahouses and hostels
- Meals: $3-7 daily, including trekking meals
- Transportation: $1-4 for local buses
- SIM Card: $3-6 for prepaid plans
7. India
Image source: Live Science
India’s vast diversity means budget travelers can find completely different worlds within one country. Every region offers unique experiences at minimal cost.
The subcontinent’s rich history, vibrant festivals, and varied landscapes create sensory overload in the best possible way.
- Accommodation: $5-10 per night for budget rooms
- Meals: $2-5 daily for Indian cuisine
- Transportation: $0.50-2 for trains and buses
- SIM Card: $4-8 for tourist packages
8. Sri Lanka
Image source: The New York Times
Sri Lanka packs an incredible variety into a small island nation perfect for budget exploration. Ancient ruins, tea plantations, and wildlife safaris all fit within easy reach.
The friendly Sri Lankan people and delicious curry dishes enhance every path through this tropical paradise.
- Accommodation: $8-15 per night for guesthouses
- Meals: $3-7 daily for rice and curry
- Transportation: $1-4 for trains and buses
- SIM Card: $5-10 for data plans
9. Bolivia
Image source: National Geographic Kids
Bolivia stands out as South America’s most affordable country for travelers. The surreal Uyuni Salt Flats create bucket-list moments without bucket-list prices.
La Paz’s unique altitude setting and indigenous culture provide authentic experiences. Budget backpackers find that Bolivia’s low costs allow extended stays and multiple excursions.
- Accommodation: $7-13 per night for hostels
- Meals: $3-6 daily for local restaurants
- Transportation: $1-3 for buses
- SIM Card: $5-8 for prepaid data
10. Peru
Image source: Peru Travel
Peru combines ancient attractions with natural beauty at prices reasonable for careful spenders. While Machu Picchu requires investment, the rest of the country remains affordable.
Lima’s food scene, Cusco’s colonial beauty, and the Amazon rainforest offer diverse events. Smart travelers balance splurge-worthy experiences with budget-friendly costs.
- Accommodation: $9-16 per night for basic lodging
- Meals: $4-8 daily for Peruvian dishes
- Transportation: $1-4 for local transport
- SIM Card: $6-10 for tourist plans
11. Guatemala
Image source: Natucate
Guatemala delivers Central American events with Mayan ruins, volcanic landscapes, and colorful markets.
Antigua’s cobblestone streets and Lake Atitlan’s beautiful setting attract budget travelers seeking beauty and culture.
- Accommodation: $8-14 per night for hostels and hotels
- Meals: $3-7 daily for local food
- Transportation: $1-3 for chicken buses
- SIM Card: $5-9 for data packages
12. Nicaragua
Image source: Vogue
Nicaragua offers unspoiled beaches and volcanoes at Central America’s lowest prices. Granada’s colorful structure and the Island’s twin volcanoes create picture-perfect settings.
Surfing spots and freshwater lakes provide outdoor activities without expensive fees. The country’s improving tourism infrastructure maintains authenticity while welcoming visitors.
- Accommodation: $7-12 per night for budget rooms
- Meals: $3-6 daily for Nicaraguan cuisine
- Transportation: $1-3 for local buses
- SIM Card: $4-8 for prepaid plans
13. Mexico
Image source: National Geographic
Mexico surprises budget travelers with how many events fit within spending limits. Beyond resort areas, authentic Mexico offers incredible value in cities like Oaxaca.
Ancient ruins, beautiful beaches, and street tacos make Mexico endlessly appealing. The country’s size means you can travel for months, finding new regions.
- Accommodation: $10-18 per night for hostels and basic hotels
- Meals: $4-8 daily for street food and restaurants
- Transportation: $1-4 for buses and colectivos
- SIM Card: $6-12 for tourist data
14. Poland
Image source: National Geographic Kids
Poland brings European history and culture at Eastern European prices that Western travelers appreciate.
Kraków’s medieval streets and Warsaw’s rebuilt old town showcase the nation’s resilient spirit. Pierogi and kielbasa satisfy hungry travelers without emptying wallets.
- Accommodation: $12-20 per night for hostels
- Meals: $5-10 daily for Polish food
- Transportation: $2-5 for public transport
- SIM Card: $8-15 for prepaid data
15. Romania
Image source: Bloomberg.com
Romania enchants visitors with Transylvania’s castles, medieval towns, and unspoiled countryside. Dracula legends add mystique, while Bucharest’s scene surprises first-time visitors.
The Carpathian Mountains offer hiking and wildlife watching at minimal cost. Romania’s emerging tourism industry means you’ll find experiences before crowds arrive.
- Accommodation: $10-18 per night for budget accommodations
- Meals: $4-9 daily for Romanian dishes
- Transportation: $1-4 for trains and buses
- SIM Card: $7-12 for data packages
16. Bulgaria
Image source: CNN
Bulgaria combines Black Sea beaches with mountain ski resorts at prices that seem too good to be true.
Bulgarian yogurt and shopska salad provide tasty, cheap fuel for exploration. The country’s variety lets budget travelers enjoy multiple vacation styles in one trip.
- Accommodation: $9-16 per night for hostels and guesthouses
- Meals: $4-8 daily for local cuisine
- Transportation: $1-3 for public transport
- SIM Card: $6-10 for prepaid plans
17. Hungary
Image source: Go Kite Tours
Hungary centers around Budapest’s beautiful structure and thermal baths that won’t drain your travel fund.
Goulash and langos fill stomachs affordably, while ruin bars provide unique nightlife. Beyond the capital, the Hungarian countryside and Lake Balaton offer peaceful retreats.
- Accommodation: $11-19 per night for hostels
- Meals: $5-10 daily for Hungarian food
- Transportation: $2-5 for the metro and buses
- SIM Card: $8-14 for tourist data
18. Czech Republic
Image source: CNN
The Czech Republic serves incredible beer and medieval beauty at Central European prices. Prague’s fairy-tale structure draws crowds, but smaller towns like Cesky offer budget alternatives.
The country’s castle-dotted landscape and hearty cuisine satisfy travelers seeking European culture without Western European costs.
- Accommodation: $12-20 per night for budget lodging
- Meals: $6-11 daily for Czech dishes
- Transportation: $2-5 for trains and trams
- SIM Card: $9-15 for data packages
19. Portugal
Image source: portugal.com
Portugal delivers Western European quality at surprisingly affordable prices compared to neighboring Spain. Lisbon’s hills, Porto’s wine cellars create diverse experiences.
Fresh seafood and pastel de nata pastries make every meal special without being expensive. The Portuguese people’s and the country’s safety make it perfect for first-time travelers.
- Accommodation: $15-25 per night for hostels and pensions
- Meals: $7-12 daily for Portuguese cuisine
- Transportation: $2-6 for buses and metro
- SIM Card: $10-18 for prepaid plans
20. Greece
Image source: Royal Caribbean
Greece combines ancient history with an island paradise, especially affordable outside peak summer months.
Athens’ iconic ruins and Crete’s beaches offer Mediterranean dreams on moderate budgets. Souvlaki and Greek salads taste better by the sea, where fresh ingredients shine.
- Accommodation: $13-22 per night for budget rooms
- Meals: $6-12 daily for Greek food
- Transportation: $2-6 for local transport
- SIM Card: $10-16 for tourist data
21. Turkey
Image source: National Geographic Kids
Turkey bridges Europe and Asia with incredible history, food, and hospitality at budget-friendly rates. Istanbul’s mosques and bazaars attract visitors.
Turkish breakfast spreads and kebabs provide delicious, affordable sustenance. The country’s size and variety mean extended trips remain economical.
- Accommodation: $10-18 per night for hostels and pensions
- Meals: $4-9 daily for Turkish cuisine
- Transportation: $1-4 for buses and ferries
- SIM Card: $7-12 for data packages
22. Egypt
Image source: National Geographic Kids
Egypt’s ancient wonders and Red Sea diving come at prices accessible to most travelers. The pyramids and temples fulfill history lovers’ dreams.
Cairo’s chaotic energy contrasts with desert tranquility in fascinating ways. Bargaining in souks and enjoying koshari meals add to the authentic experience.
- Accommodation: $8-15 per night for budget hotels
- Meals: $3-7 daily for Egyptian food
- Transportation: $1-3 for metros and buses
- SIM Card: $5-10 for prepaid plans
23. Morocco
Image source: Zicasso
Morocco enchants travelers with colorful souks, desert landscapes, and coastal cities at moderate costs.
Marrakech’s medina maze and Sahara camel treks create unforgettable memories. Tagines and mint tea fuel explorations through this North African kingdom.
- Accommodation: $9-16 per night for riads and hostels
- Meals: $4-8 daily for Moroccan dishes
- Transportation: $2-5 for buses and trains
- SIM Card: $6-11 for data packages
24. Albania
Image source: Planet of Hotels
Albania emerges as Europe’s hidden gem with pristine beaches and mountain villages at bargain prices. The Albanian Riviera rivals Greece and Croatia without the crowds or costs.
Tirana’s colorful buildings and ancient Berat’s stone design showcase the country’s character. Few tourists mean authentic interactions and excellent value.
- Accommodation: $8-14 per night for guesthouses
- Meals: $4-8 daily for Albanian cuisine
- Transportation: $1-4 for buses
- SIM Card: $6-10 for prepaid data
25. Ukraine
Image source: National Geographic Kids
Ukraine offers Eastern European culture, hearty food, and welcoming people at very low prices. Kyiv’s golden domes and Lviv’s coffee culture create memorable city experiences.
The country’s complex history and beautiful countryside reward curious travelers. Budget backpackers find their money goes incredibly far throughout Ukraine.
- Accommodation: $7-13 per night for hostels
- Meals: $3-7 daily for Ukrainian food
- Transportation: $0.50-2 for metro and marshrutkas
- SIM Card: $4-8 for data plans
26. Georgia
Image source: Modern Adventure
Georgia surprises visitors with the beauty of the Caucasus Mountains, ancient wine traditions, and incredibly affordable travel.
Tbilisi’s quirky capital vibe and Kazbegi’s dramatic peaks create diverse experiences. Georgian hospitality means generous portions of khachapuri and wine at low prices.
- Accommodation: $8-15 per night for hostels and guesthouses
- Meals: $4-8 daily for Georgian cuisine
- Transportation: $1-3 for marshrutkas and metros
- SIM Card: $5-9 for prepaid packages
27. Philippines
Image source: Travel + Leisure
The Philippines’ 7,000 islands mean endless beach-hopping events for budget travelers seeking a tropical paradise.
White sand beaches, diving spots, and friendly locals create Southeast Asian magic. Island hopping tours and fresh seafood remain remarkably affordable despite popularity.
- Accommodation: $9-16 per night for beach hostels
- Meals: $3-7 daily for Filipino food
- Transportation: $2-5 for tricycles and ferries
- SIM Card: $6-10 for tourist data
28. Malaysia
Image source: Tripadvisor
Malaysia blends modern cities with tropical rainforests and beaches at prices lower than many neighbors.
Kuala Lumpur’s skyscrapers and street food contrast with Borneo’s wildlife events. The country’s multicultural means Chinese and Indian cuisines all tempt budget travelers.
- Accommodation: $10-17 per night for hostels and budget hotels
- Meals: $3-7 daily for hawker food
- Transportation: $1-4 for buses and trains
- SIM Card: $7-12 for prepaid plans
29. Ecuador
Image source: Rebecca Adventure Travel
The Galapagos Islands require investment, but mainland Ecuador offers the Amazon jungle, the Andean highlands, and Pacific beaches affordably.
Quito’s historic center and colorful indigenous markets provide cultural richness. Using the US dollar simplifies money matters for American visitors.
- Accommodation: $9-15 per night for hostels
- Meals: $3-7 daily for Ecuadorian food
- Transportation: $1-3 for local buses
- SIM Card: $5-9 for data packages
30. Colombia
Image source: Tripadvisor
Colombia has changed into a safe, welcoming destination that reveals the beauty of its landscapes and vibrant culture at budget prices.
Cartagena’s Caribbean beauty and Medellin’s spring-like weather attract diverse travelers. Coffee region tours and Bogota’s museums provide depth beyond beautiful scenery.
- Accommodation: $10-17 per night for hostels and budget hotels
- Meals: $4-8 daily for Colombian cuisine
- Transportation: $1-4 for buses and metro
- SIM Card: $6-11 for prepaid data
31. Argentina
Image source: Britannica
Argentina offers European smooth with Latin American warmth at prices that fluctuate with the economy.
Buenos Aires’ tango culture and Patagonia’s glaciers create unforgettable experiences. Steak dinners and Malbec wine surprisingly fit budget travel plans.
- Accommodation: $11-18 per night for hostels
- Meals: $5-10 daily for Argentine food
- Transportation: $1-4 for buses and subways
- SIM Card: $7-13 for tourist packages
32. Tunisia
Image source: Lonely Planet
Tunisia provides a North African event with Roman ruins, desert oases, and Mediterranean beaches at a low cost.
The medinas of Tunis and Sousse transport visitors back in time affordably. Star Wars filming locations and Sahara tours create unique memories.
- Accommodation: $8-14 per night for budget hotels
- Meals: $4-8 daily for Tunisian cuisine
- Transportation: $1-3 for louages and buses
- SIM Card: $5-10 for prepaid data
33. South Africa
Image source: Africa.com
South Africa delivers safari event, beautiful coastlines, and wine regions at prices lower than expected.
Cape Town’s beauty and Kruger National Park’s wildlife fulfill bucket-list dreams. The country’s diversity means every traveler finds something special within their budget.
- Accommodation: $12-20 per night for backpacker lodges
- Meals: $5-10 daily for local food
- Transportation: $2-5 for buses and shared taxis
- SIM Card: $8-14 for tourist packages
Tips for Saving Even More Money While Traveling
Smart strategies help stretch your budget even further in affordable destinations.
- Travel Off-Season: Visit during shoulder months when prices drop, and crowds disappear while enjoying better weather and more authentic experiences.
- Cook occasionally: Markets provide fresh ingredients for simple meals in hostel kitchens, and you’ll save money while experiencing local food culture firsthand.
- Use Local Transportation: Skip tourist shuttles and ride buses that locals actually use to save money and see how residents really navigate their cities.
- Book Directly: Contact hotels and tour operators directly to avoid booking platform fees and sometimes negotiate better rates.
- Free Walking Tours: Join tip-based tours that provide local insights without upfront costs. You’ll meet fellow travelers while learning neighborhood secrets.
- Refillable Water Bottle: Avoid buying bottled water by carrying your own reusable container and refilling it at hotels or safe water stations the day.
Conclusion
Your enjoyment awaits in these surprising destinations where your budget stretches further than you imagined.
Start researching flights and planning your itinerary today to turn travel dreams into reality. These cheap countries to visit prove that exploring the world doesn’t require a fortune in the bank.
From Asian temples to European castles, from African safaris to South American peaks, budget-friendly destinations span every continent and climate.
The experiences, friendships, and memories you’ll create matter far more than luxury accommodations or expensive restaurants.
Is smart planning important? Choose one country from this list and begin planning now.
