Budget travel is a way to travel the world while keeping expenses low. It involves being mindful of spending and seeking ways to save money on transportation, accommodation, food, and activities.
Budget travel tips include booking in advance, selecting budget-friendly destinations, choosing public transportation over taxis, eating street food, and participating in free or low-cost activities. By planning and being flexible, budget travel can provide a rewarding and enriching experience without breaking the bank.
Riga, Latvia
The capital city of Riga has transformed its image in recent years and is increasingly acknowledged as the charming and sophisticated city it always was at heart. With over 800 magnificent buildings, Riga possesses the world’s largest and most striking collection of Art Nouveau architecture. One thing that remains in the past is the high prices, which make the city a more attractive vacation destination than ever before. Take a walk through the Old Town and marvel at the intricacies of the Art Nouveau facades.
- The average daily cost for a hotel, meals, and transportation is $95. A typical beer costs $3.
Budapest, Hungary
Budapest, known as the spa capital of the world, is the sole remaining capital with an abundance of naturally warm thermal water known for its healing properties. After a day of sightseeing or a night of partying, visitors can unwind in one of the city’s 118 springs, which are usually very affordable.
- Daily spending average: $70. A beer costs about $2.5, and a glass of white wine costs about $2.
High Tatras, Slovakia
The High Tatras is a great option for budget travelers seeking excellent hiking and climbing experiences. Located mostly within Slovakia’s borders, it is the smallest alpine mountain range in the world, with 30 spectacular peaks. The trails wind through hundreds of kilometers of wilderness, where you can find steep climbing walls up to 900 meters high and abundant wildlife.
- A meal costs about $10, while a beer is about $2.5.
Warsaw, Poland
The Old Town of Warsaw exudes a fairy-tale charm with its cobbled streets, historic architecture and monuments. The Praga district, on the other hand, stands in stark contrast, as its appearance seems frozen in the 1940s, featuring bullet holes in the walls and dark, winding alleys. Meanwhile, the business district stands out with its modern and cosmopolitan vibe, adding another dimension to the contrasts that define Warsaw.
- Daily spending averages $75. There are meals for $15 or less.
Galicia, Spain
Consider Vigo for your accommodation, a picturesque old provincial capital perched on a hillside that will transport you to San Francisco. The charming waterfront area has numerous cafes and bars where you can relax and refresh yourself between your sightseeing tours.
- Average daily expenditure: A three-course lunch for two costs $37, a coffee averages $2. About $90 per person per day, excluding other expenses and accommodation.
Turunç, Turkey
Turunç is a peaceful beach town that’s situated close to Marmaris, but not too close to its bustling nightlife scene. It’s an ideal destination to unwind and relax on the beach during the day, away from the noise and crowds. However, if you’re looking for some excitement, you can take a 30-minute ride on a cab boat to reach the clubs in Marmaris and dance the night away.
- The average daily expenditure: A three-course lunch in Turkey can cost as little as $10 Including lodging, drinks and other meals, we expect the cost to be around $65 per person.
Skopje, North Macedonia
North Macedonia, considered one of the most affordable countries in Europe, is quickly becoming a favored tourist destination for 2023. If you enjoy staying active and exploring new areas, Skopje, the capital city, offers a variety of options. Visitors can tour archaeological sites, fortresses, historical monuments, and caves. For the best view of the city, hike to the Mountain of Vodno.
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to walk across the Stone Bridge to Macedonia Square and enjoy the scenery. Additionally, a brief 15km trip to Matka Lake is worthwhile, where visitors can take a leisurely stroll or a boat tour if the budget allows. The Matka canyon is home to medieval monasteries and thrilling caves to explore.
Daily spending averages $55.
Golden Sands, Bulgaria
If you’re searching for an affordable beach holiday, Golden Sands in Bulgaria is an excellent choice. The resort on the Black Sea has sandy beaches and terracotta-colored rooftops that bring to mind Croatia. The resort is also proud to have been awarded the Blue Flag for its clean beaches. The marina is dotted with gorgeous yachts, and the beachfront clubs offer a cool and diverse ambiance.
- Each person spends, on average, $75 each day. The average cost of a three-course lunch for two is less than $25. A night in a respectable hotel costs less than $75 for two people.
Berlin, Germany
For those seeking an affordable and happening city, Berlin fits the bill. Begin your day with a stroll along Torstrasse in Mitte to discover the hip boutiques and bars. Then, head to one of the city’s street food havens in Friedrichshain, Neukölln, or Kreuzberg for a budget-friendly lunch. Later on, check out one of the many famous techno clubs. Our top picks include Club der Visionaere, Zur Wilde Renate, Griessmuehle, Klunkerkranich, and Katerblau.
- Daily spending averages $95. A sit-down meal for two will cost approximately $40, but if you want to eat from one of the many fast food outlets, you can spend considerably less.
Saranda, Albania
Saranda, situated on the Albanian Riviera, is a rising budget-friendly tourist destination with over 300 sunny days annually. This former fishing village boasts pristine beaches where you can relish freshly caught fish for a few Euros. The town’s proximity to Corfu allows visitors to experience Greek influences and take a day trip there. South of Saranda lies Ksamil beach, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and called the Ionian Pearl. Mirror beach, located nearby, is equally stunning. For those who crave adventure, the Llogara National Park, located two hours north of Saranda, is a must-see destination, which Julius Caesar traversed en route to Pompey in 48 BC.
- Daily spending averages $95.