Best and Cheapest Places to Travel

Best and Cheapest Places to Travel Around the World in 2025

Exploring the world doesn’t have to cost you an arm and a leg. In fact, the most stunning, culturally significant, and thrilling places in the world are also, in many cases, very affordable—if you know where to find them.

Whether you’re a budget-conscious backpacker, a freelance worker looking for low-cost living, or a leisure traveler wanting to make your vacation money go further, there are hundreds of destinations worldwide that provide excellent experiences without the high price tag.

From urban metropolises to beach resorts and mountain hideaways, the most affordable and best places to visit can surprise even experienced travelers. They provide low daily expenses together with exciting attractions, tasty local cuisine, and welcoming people. In 2025, through intelligent planning and an eye for adventure, you can have world-class travel without breaking the bank.

In this guide, we are going to tell you which countries are Best and Cheapest Places to Travel and why they must be high on your travel agenda.

Best and Cheapest Places to Travel Around the World in 2025

Traveling does not have to be costly if you pick the right destination. In 2025, certain countries present good value without settling in terms of experience. Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway, a gap year, or extended travel, traveling to countries where your money will stretch can make all the difference.

These countries have cheap accommodation, low-cost transportation, low food prices, and a rich cultural experience. Some of the best and most affordable places to visit this year are as follows:

1. Vietnam

Vietnam remains a favorite with budget travelers. It has stunning scenery, lively cities, cultural landmarks, and an affordable cost of living. You can travel in comfort on a budget of $20–$35 a day. There is plenty of accommodation available, from hostels to guesthouses, with prices as low as $7 a night. The street food is big, with offerings such as pho or banh mi for $1–$2.

Trains and buses are cheap and will transport you up and down the country without costing you the earth in flights. Domestic flights can also be extremely reasonable if booked earlier. More touristy places like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Hoi An, and Da Nang mix history, contemporary culture, and stunning scenery.

Whether you are walking the rice paddies, gliding through Ha Long Bay, or sampling local food, Vietnam provides terrific value for every dollar spent.

2. Georgia

Georgia is a developing country that provides beautiful mountain scenery, ancient churches, and friendly hospitality. It lies between Eastern Europe and Western Asia and is still very cheap for tourists. $25–$40 per day is enough for food, accommodation, and transportation.

The capital, Tbilisi, is sophisticated but full of historic atmosphere. Local transport is inexpensive, and it is possible to travel around the city for a few cents. Food is delicious and low-cost, and traditional Georgian meals cost $3–$5. Wine is locally produced and cheap.

There are guesthouses and hostels from $10–$15 a night. Beyond the capital, other cities such as Kutaisi and Batumi are also affordable and culturally rich. Hiking and outdoor activities at low costs can be enjoyed in the Caucasus Mountains.

Georgia’s liberal visa policy also makes it an easy destination for extended stays, particularly for digital nomads and slow travelers.

3. Albania

Albania blends Mediterranean beaches, mountainous terrain, and old cities at economical prices. One of the cheapest countries to visit in Europe, with an average budget per day from $30 to $45. Tirana, Berat, and Gjirokastër are great for experiencing culture and have low-cost hostels and hotels.

The Albanian Riviera, covering towns such as Saranda and Ksamil, has stunning beaches with crystal-clear water at a price barely higher than other European locations. Seafood is affordable and fresh, and dishes eaten at local eateries cost less than $10.

Traveling is also cheap, with buses and minibuses (furgons) traveling often and going almost anywhere in the country. Albania is not nearly as populated as other countries in Europe, so it is an excellent option for travelers seeking tranquility, nature, and a low cost all together.

4. Mexico

Mexico is famous for its rich culture, lively cities, historical ruins, and cheap travels. The standard of living in most of Mexico is still low, particularly away from the tourist resort towns. A travel budget of $35–$50 per day is enough to travel comfortably.

Places like Oaxaca, Guadalajara, Puebla, and Guanajuato provide excellent cultural exposure, tasty food, and cheap accommodations. Street food is a specialty of Mexico, and tacos, tamales, and tortas can be had for a mere $1–$2 per item.

Hostels and budget hotels will begin at $10–$20 per night. Public transportation is reliable and inexpensive. Long-distance buses are comfortable and reasonably priced, and local transport such as colectivos and buses are plentiful.

Mexico has free or low-budget activities like public beaches, parks, cultural attractions, and local markets, which are easy to access without burning a hole in your pocket.

5. Indonesia

Indonesia is a huge and multicultural country consisting of more than 17,000 islands that has something for everyone. Though Bali is popular, there are plenty of other islands such as Lombok, Sumatra, and Flores that are even cheaper.

Indonesia is also one of the most affordable countries in Southeast Asia, with an average of $25–$40 spent per day. Hostels and guesthouses are easily found and cost from $8–$15 per night. Local cuisine like nasi goreng and satay ranges from $1–$3. Domestic flights and ferries are cheap, so island-hopping on a shoestring is definitely achievable.

Outdoor enthusiasts can explore volcanoes, jungles, beaches, and coral reefs. Whether you’re diving in the Gili Islands, trekking Mount Rinjani, or exploring traditional villages, Indonesia delivers high value for a low price.

6. Nepal

Nepal is an ideal destination for budget-conscious travelers who enjoy nature and adventure. With a daily budget of just $20–$30, it is possible to experience both the Himalayas and the cultural richness of the Kathmandu Valley.

Accommodation is simple guesthouses to low-budget hotels that can cost as little as $5–$10 for a night. Food is also inexpensive, with simple dishes such as dal bhat and momos costing about $2–$3. Transport within cities and across regions is inexpensive but sometimes slow owing to road conditions.

Trekking is one of the major draws in Nepal, and many routes such as the Annapurna Circuit or Langtang Valley can be done on a modest budget, especially if done independently.

Entrance fees to temples and monuments are low or optional, and the overall hospitality of the country makes it easy for travelers to enjoy a rich experience without overspending.

7. Turkey

Turkey provides a stunning combination of ancient history, contemporary culture, and natural beauty at a relatively inexpensive cost. A budget of $30–$45 per day provides ample opportunities to enjoy both urban and rural areas.

Hostel and low-budget hotel stays can be had for $10–$20 per day. Turkish cuisine is delicious and cheap, with street food such as simit, kebabs, and gözleme often costing less than $3. Public transportation, particularly intercity buses, are trustworthy and affordable.

Istanbul is a favorite among many tourists, but smaller communities such as Selçuk, Fethiye, and Cappadocia offer the same enriching experiences at reduced expenses. With the Turkish lira continuing to remain weak against major currencies, 2025 is still an excellent year to travel to Turkey for tourists wishing to get the most out of their money while being able to indulge in both European and Asian cultures.

8. Bolivia

Bolivia is among the cheapest places to visit in South America, with amazing scenery and colorful local culture available for the budget-conscious traveler. A minimum daily budget of $25–$35 will cover the cost of accommodation, meals, and transport.

Budget hostels and guesthouses in La Paz and Sucre can be found for $10–$15 per night. Lunches in local markets are as low as $1.50, and bus fares between cities are some of the lowest on the continent. Low in price, Bolivia boasts unusual attractions such as Salar de Uyuni salt flats, Lake Titicaca, and the Andes Mountains.

Costs of tours are less than in surrounding countries, and numerous treks and cultural activities can be accomplished independently. Bolivia is affordable and a great option for long-term travelers or people wanting to get a taste of South America without breaking the bank.

9. Morocco

Morocco is one of North Africa’s leading destinations, providing a rich culture, tasty cuisine, and varied landscapes from desert dunes to coastal towns. With a budget of $30–$45 a day, visitors can visit cities such as Marrakech, Fez, and Chefchaouen in comfort.

Accommodation is cheap, with budget hotels and old riads costing $10–$20 per night. Food from Moroccan street vendors and café meals usually cost less than $5. Public transport in the form of buses and shared taxis is cheap and everywhere.

Historical site visits, medina explorations, and guided desert safaris are all within budget. Morocco’s affordability and exotic cultural environment also render it a fulfilling destination for budget-conscious visitors wishing to have a low-budget but rich experience.

10. India

India is still among the most affordable nations globally. Its varied landscape, ancient history, and extensive cuisine draw visitors from all corners of the world. You can travel reasonably comfortably throughout much of the country on a daily budget of only $20–$30.

Accommodation is very affordable, with budget hotels and guesthouses for $5–$10 per day. Local cuisine is delicious and inexpensive; full meals are $1–$3. Transportation is widespread and affordable—trains, buses, and metro systems link cities and towns across the country.

Every region has its own special experiences, from the desert of Rajasthan to the coastline of Goa to the backwaters of Kerala. Entry charges to places of historical significance are minimal, and most cultural activities are free or on a donation basis. The affordability and range of India make it perfect for short trips as well as longer journeys.

11. Philippines

The Philippines is a tropical heaven consisting of more than 7,000 islands that present unspoiled beaches, crystal-clear waters, green mountains, and rich native culture — at a low cost. Most visitors can get by with a daily expenditure of $25–$40.

Guesthouse or hostel accommodation is $10–$20 per night, and local food costs between $2 and $4. Transportation is cheap, particularly jeepneys and tricycles for short hops, with ferries and low-cost airlines providing island-hopping on a budget. Palawan, Siargao, Bohol, and Cebu are some of the most well-known low-cost hotspots.

Snorkeling, waterfall hiking, and rice terraces are free or very low-cost activities. English is widely spoken, which makes communication easy for travelers. If you’re looking for a mix of adventure, natural beauty, and friendly locals without breaking the bank, the Philippines is an excellent choice.

12. Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a compact yet incredibly diverse country perfect for budget travelers looking for beaches, mountains, wildlife, and ancient ruins—all within a short travel radius. A budget of $25–$35 per day can stretch to cover meals, transport, and accommodation.

Budget hotels and guesthouses are available from $10 a night, and rice and curry meals are usually only $2–$3. Local trains and buses are very cheap, with scenic trips like the train from Kandy to Ella costing just a few dollars.

The most popular spots are Ella, Galle, Mirissa, and Sigiriya. Cultural heritage attractions come with low ticket prices, and nature-based pursuits such as trekking, surfing, and wildlife safaris are affordable too. With its sunny climate, friendly locals, and variety of low-cost experiences, Sri Lanka is an ideal choice for budget-conscious tourists.

13. Nicaragua

Nicaragua is the most under-rated and affordable country to visit in Central America, a great destination for travelers who want a combination of colonial history, volcanoes, beaches, and adventure. A daily budget of $25–$40 is typical.

Hostels and local inns are available for less than $15 per night, and comedores (local restaurants) meals for $2–$4. Transport is inexpensive and consists of local “chicken buses,” which serve to link most towns. Granada and León are cultural centers with vivid buildings and budget accommodations.

For the nature enthusiast, there are chances to surf along the Pacific coast, kayak on Lake Nicaragua, or climb active volcanoes—low-budget. Nicaragua is a rich experience for the traveler willing to see Central America without crowds and high prices of nearby countries.

Conclusion

Budget travel in 2025 is not only affordable—it can be profoundly enriching. By choosing destinations where your money goes further, you can experience diverse cultures, stunning landscapes, and unforgettable adventures without financial stress.

Countries like Vietnam, Georgia, Albania, Mexico, and Nepal offer exceptional value, combining low daily costs with rich travel experiences. Similarly, places like the Philippines, Sri Lanka, and Nicaragua prove that affordable travel isn’t limited to one region or continent.

These places offer inexpensive lodging, cheap local cuisine, low-cost transportation, and an abundance of free or low-price attractions.

What makes these destinations even more attractive is that they provide authentic, real travel experiences without the commercialized atmosphere of over-touristed areas. Whether you’re a solo backpacker, a long-term-traveling couple, or just seeking a low-cost holiday, these nations can enable you to gain the most from your time and money.

With clever planning and an open mind, budget travel can be as rewarding—if not more so—than costly vacations.

No matter your travel style or budget, the key is choosing the right destinations. And the best and cheapest places to travel in 2025 are waiting to be explored.