Traveling is more costly than before. One of the best ways to keep to a low budget is by seeking out cheap holiday destinations.
Of course, there are alternative ways to do so. Our suggestions on inexpensive traveling and cost-friendly holiday destinations will help anyone who feels the need for a change.
10 Cheap Holiday Destinations
The world is full of exciting, cost-friendly destinations that won’t stretch the budgets of thrill-seeking travelers. These are the ten places you must visit if you want to travel the world on a budget.
1. Croatia
First of all is Croatia, famous for an aqua-blue coast that hugs the Adriatic Sea. If you have a love for sunshine, turquoise seas, or history, this is the place to visit.
For those who are unsure of its location, Croatia is in Eastern Europe. It lies South of Slovenia and Southeast of Hungary.
Travelers from the United States, Canada, and Australia don’t need to present their Visas. The intrepid explorer can visit the country for less than $50 a day. Stay in guesthouses and cook your meals whenever possible. Buy your food from farmers markets or supermarkets; avoid dining at restaurants.
Island-hopping in Croatia is delightful but costly. Take a trip to Zagreb, the country’s city center, instead. Visit the old town and the Zagreb Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. It is Croatia’s tallest structure; you can’t miss it.
Croatia will appeal to the romantic in you. Tour the Museum of Broken Relationships. As its name suggests, it is a museum that relates stories of unrequited love.
You may also pay your respects at the Mirogoj Cemetery. It has been the resting place of Croatia’s departed since the 19th Century. You will adore it for its wealth of history and vine-covered structures.
These activities require little if any cost. If you are searching for budget accommodations, try Airbnb. You get the freedom of living in a holiday apartment at a low price.
2. Cyprus
Cyprus lies south of Turkey and on the far east of the Mediterranean Sea. This Mediterranean country is a melting pot of cultures, having ties to both Asia and Europe. Note that the Turkish Invasion of 1974 divided the country, so there are places that aren’t open to visitors.
So, where can you go if you’re on a budget? Visit the walled city of Famagusta, which is presently a thriving port. Tour the Gothic Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque. This historic structure began as a church and was the creation of the kings who ruled Cyprus from 1192 to 1489. It became a mosque after Cyprus fell to the Ottoman Empire. Alternatively, pay your respects to the departed at the Barnabas Monastery.
Akamas Peninsula, situated on the Western tip of Cyprus, is the place for you if you wish to go off the beaten track. It has no paved roads! Go scuba diving and see first hand Croatia’s diverse marine life.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly place to stay, Nicosia has inexpensive hotels where you can spend a few nights.
3. Egypt
Egypt is a spectacular place to visit on a budget. One of the oldest civilizations in the world, the country is awash in culture. Besides, it’s one of the most popular cheap holiday destinations to visit.
The Pyramids of Giza aren’t in a city but are cost-friendly for travelers. Stay on budget and experience one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. You have the option of buying tickets if you wish to tour the inside of the pyramids.
Satisfy the music lover in you with a visit to the Cairo Opera House. You can catch a show almost every day of the week. If you want a bird’s eye view of the city, tour the Cairo Tower. It costs only $10 if you are a non-Egyptian visitor.
The Egyptian Museum captures nearly 5000 years of history. See mummies up close for about $9 if you are a foreign visitor. Tour the Colossus of Ramses II which measures 10 meters. Pay your respects at the City of the Dead and scale the tall mountains nearby.
The City View Hotel, Windsor Hotel, King Hotel, and Osiris Hotel are all excellent ways to experience Egyptian hospitality on a budget. Each of them has rooms that cost less than USD 100 a night.
4. The Greek Islands
Another of the world’s most historical countries, Greece, is one of the top holiday destinations that are both cheap and lovely. It is the country to fly to if you want a budget island holiday.
Consider the island of Agistri if you wish to go back to nature. Covered by pine forests and home to pebbled beaches, it is the place to go if you want a relaxing getaway. Hotel Agistri has prices that start from USD 30 a room.
Then, there’s Kythnos island, home to 70 sandy-white beaches. The Kolona beach is a must-see. It also boasts cafes and taverns where you can grab a quick drink. Accommodation here is slightly more expensive; it starts at USD 46.
Are you a food enthusiast? Visit Lefkada island for its Ionian Cuisine. Spend time on its lovely beaches as well.
5. Portugal
Portugal is also on this list of budget holiday destinations, quite a cheap country that has everything a tourist needs. With its stunning beaches and hiking opportunities, you will have plenty to do, even with a tight budget.
The history buff in you will be ecstatic in Sintra. You will have a field day(or a few) visiting the city’s many historic castles.
Take the road less traveled by visiting the Azore Islands. They are budget-friendly like the rest of the country. Hike around the coastal areas and finish off with the Praia Lagoa de Fogo trail. It has a volcanic Lagoon where you can have a refreshing swim.
Lisbon has become a draw for backpackers. View the city from the Belem Tower. Buy street art from one of its many creatives or visit one of its many nightclubs. Whatever you choose to do, you can enjoy yourself without breaking the bank.
6. Spain
The country of Spain brings visions of fashionistas and dancers with castanets. Spain can be inexpensive, despite its exotic charm.
Focus on a small area when planning your itinerary. Off-the-beaten-track regions like Galicia, Asturias, Teruel, and Valderrobres are worth a visit. Hobnob with the locals in small villages instead of big towns. Tour the picturesque coastal district of Tossa De Mar.
Money is always a concern for the budget traveler. Save by taking public transport instead of taxis. To reduce accommodation costs, stay at one of the many Budget Hotels in Barcelona, Seville, Palma, and Madrid.
7. Malta
Europe isn’t just about French chic or Italian charm; why not tour the Republic of Malta? After all, it doesn’t cost anything to enjoy its pristine beaches. It is one of the greatest cheap holiday destinations.
Thanks to climate change, swimming in clear waters is a rare experience. However, you can do this in Malta. Tour its awe-inspiring churches for free. Furthermore, a Malta Tourist Card will save you about 5 Euro.
Are you looking for cost-friendly accommodation? Check into one of Malta’s many budget hotels. Their prices start at just 9 Euro.
8. Morocco
Morocco exemplifies the exotic. The best part of its Mediterranean charm is that you can enjoy it on a budget.
Scale the breathtaking Atlas mountains and let their neatly terraced structures impress you. Take the chance to learn about the Berbers for less than $5. Have you a mind for a hot air balloon ride? Experience these gargantuan slopes from the air.
Take in the beautiful Ozoud Falls and backpack through Marrakech. A low-cost way to enjoy Morocco is to tour the Marjorelle Garden for less than $10.
Who says that roughing it out means no enjoyment? Experience life in the Morrocan desert. Backpackers can book accommodations at the Ghwirate Taalab Bivouac for a low fee.
9. Turkey
Turkey allows you to experience majesty on a budget. There is a host of activities you can do at little or no cost. Photograph the ferry chimneys or tour Pammukale Cotton Castle. Pay a visit to preserved archeological sites like the Theater and Temple of Hadrian.
Of course, an inexpensive way of experiencing Turkey is to take in the Aegean Sea. Comb the beaches, swim, and do some people-watching.
If you are in Cappadocia to witness its incredible rock formations, you can cut costs by staying at Ali’s Guesthouse. Should you want to visit the Cotton Castle at Pammukale, Ephesus Palace offers low-cost lodging.
10. Bulgaria
Located on the Black Sea Coast, Bulgaria offers majestic dunes and pristine beaches.
Bulgaria also provides an inexpensive way to experience history. Tour Sofia, a district filled with ancient ruins. Take a trip to Burgas, which has an excellent balance of beach locations and shopping.
Tour the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, one of the largest Eastern Orthodox churches in the world, or visit Rila Monastery, the best-known Eastern Orthodox Monastery in Bulgaria.
If its budget accommodation you seek, try the Mansion Apartments, which offers a full-sized kitchen with utilities. If you’re tired after a long trip, turn on the flat-screen TV in the apartment.
How to Create a Vacation Budget
Travel expenses can vary widely, depending on where you wish to go. A travel budget will rein in costs. Here’s how to make one.
1. Budget for transport
First of all, unless you’re planning a staycation, transportation will be a humongous part of your budget.
Consider enormous costs like airfare. Do some research and estimate how much it will cost. You will also need other forms of transport. Travel on public buses when possible.
2. Consider accommodation
Accommodation is another significant part of any travel budget. Research the cost-friendly lodgings where you are going.
3. Budget for food
It’s difficult to estimate how much you will spend on food since prices vary. However, it’s possible to research budget-friendly places to buy mineral water and other necessities. Eat at local establishments instead of restaurants.
4. Budget for Activities
Think about the places you’ll visit. Will you be going on tours, or visiting the attractions yourself? Will you be shopping? Adding up these costs will help you eliminate those that are unnecessary.
How to Stay On Budget While On Vacation
You don’t have to break your bank to have a dream holiday – all you need is to pick an affordable travel destination. You can travel on a shoestring budget if you know where your dollar should go.
1. Plan
First of all, plan. Although going where the road takes you brings freedom and excitement, it can be expensive. Planning your holiday doesn’t mean coming up with a comprehensive itinerary, but you must, at least, have an idea of how long you’ll be spending at each destination. You’ll have less tendency to buy unnecessary items.
2. Don’t travel at peak times
Travel agencies typically raise their prices during holiday seasons because families have more freedom to roam. Therefore, it’s best to plan your vacation after these dates. Hotels and airlines lower their prices during these times.
3. Consider budget accommodations
Is it necessary to stay at a 5-star hotel if you’re only going to be at a place for a few days? Trade expensive hotel rooms for youth hostels or off-campus housing. Airbnb and Couchsurfing offer travel accommodations at low prices.
4. Pack smart
Make sure that you pack all your necessities and toiletries so that you won’t have to shop for them while you’re on holiday. Take at least a pair of jeans, a waterproof jacket, and a hoodie for unpredictable weather conditions.
5. Book flights early
Going overseas without a guaranteed return ticket home is a recipe for travel disaster. Prices increase close to departure dates.
6. Don’t fly first class
Long flights are uncomfortable, hence the temptation to stretch one’s legs in first class. However, first-class flights are costly. Although economy flights are less comfortable, they are budget-friendly options and are ideal if you’re only flying for a few hours.
In all, don’t let a tight budget shortchange you. Get the holiday experience you deserve at these cheap destinations.
