Amazingly Cheap Places You Should Travel To In 2023

Are you craving a thrilling adventure without breaking the bank? Look no further! We've compiled a list of amazingly cheap places you should travel to in 2023, where you can satisfy your wanderlust without emptying your pockets. These hidden gems offer breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cultures, and unique experiences that won't burn a hole in your wallet.

Picture yourself strolling through the colorful streets of Hoi An, Vietnam, where ancient temples and lantern-lit alleys transport you to another world. Or perhaps you'd prefer the enchanting beaches of Zanzibar, Tanzania, where turquoise waters and white sandy shores create a tropical paradise on a budget.

For history buffs, the ancient ruins of Athens, Greece, beckon with their rich mythology and awe-inspiring architecture. And if you're seeking a vibrant city escape, head to Budapest, Hungary, where stunning architecture, thermal baths, and lively nightlife await.

But the adventure doesn't stop there! Explore the untouched beauty of the Balkans in Albania, where rugged mountains and pristine beaches offer a paradise for nature lovers. Or immerse yourself in the vibrant markets and delectable street food of Marrakech, Morocco, where every corner reveals a new sensory delight.

Whether you're yearning for breathtaking landscapes, cultural immersion, or simply an escape from the ordinary, these amazingly cheap destinations will leave you with unforgettable memories, all while being gentle on your wallet. So, pack your bags, grab your passport, and get ready to embark on an adventure of a lifetime, without breaking the bank!

🌟 Remember, the world is full of affordable wonders waiting to be explored! 🌟

1. THAILAND

Thailand is back! And now is a perfect time to visit, with tourism fully back online but popular sights still being pleasantly uncrowded.

Resort tourism on the islands and beaches is more expensive than traveling around the inland provinces, though it can be a wonderfully cheap place to travel either way — and you can find great value on any budget.

For the best prices, make your way to the northern Chiang Mai region and you’ll be in budget travel heaven. Amid the rice fields, Buddhist temples, and hill tribes you can find some of the best-value accommodation anywhere—whether you’re looking for a backpacker dorm bed (from $6 per night) or a quality hotel with a swimming pool (from $35).

New regulations have made world-famous Maya Bay picture-perfect once again, with all boat traffic banned and visitor numbers capped.

Backpacker Budget: $30 a day (inland)

Mid-range Budget: $50-$60 a day

Highlights: superb beaches, ancient temples, amazing street food

When to go: peak season Nov-Feb — shoulder season Apr-Jun, Oct

2. TURKEY

Turkey’s economy is suffering lately, but it’s one of the best deals on the planet at the moment for anyone exchanging Dollars or Euros for lira. Istanbul is the perfect starting point for a trip in Turkey but equally perfect for a city trip, being such an amazing and modern city but having prices you might expect from a remote or much less developed place.

Located between East and West and once home to the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires, you’ll find Roman ruins, cave cities, buzzing bazaars, and of course plenty of Mediterranean beaches.

Tip: Istanbul is amazing for a stopover; Turkish Airlines will even provide you with a free hotel if you visit on a layover.

Backpacker Budget: $35 a day

Mid-range Budget: $55 a day

Highlights: balloon flights over Cappadocia, cultural Istanbul, beach resorts

When to go: peak season May-Sep — shoulder season Apr, Oct

3. COLOMBIA

Colombia is an amazing country to travel (and no, these days it’s luckily nothing at all like Netflix’ Narcos, a show that is set over 50 years ago!).

Within Colombia, you can find a bit of everything, having both a Pacific and Atlantic coast, the Amazon rainforest, and the start of the Andes mountain range. Add to this the buzzing cities of Medellín and Bogota, and the warmth of Colombians and their vibrant culture, and you’ve got one of the best budget-friendly travel destinations in the Americas.

I recently came back from a second trip in Colombia and wrote a guide for a one-week beach and nature holiday in Colombia and itineraries for several weeks. It’s one of my favorite countries and against the USD or even EUR it’s amazing value right now. In local Colombian restaurants, you can get a set lunch (soup, main, fruit juice + desert) for just $2.50.

Backpacker Budget: $30 a day

Mid-range Budget: $50 a day

Highlights: Caribbean beaches, Tayrona National Park, Medellin

When to go: peak season Dec-Mar — shoulder season Jul-Sep

COLOMBIA INSPIRATION

4. ALBANIA

Some say this underrated country could be “the next Croatia”. For now, it remains very much under-the-radar.

Albania’s unspoiled coastline, quirky capital, well-preserved Ottoman-era towns, and impressive Alps offer so many reasons to go. You can learn about the fascinating history of this once-isolated country, which was known during the Cold War as the ‘North Korea’ of Europe. Today, it’s a developing democracy, and improved infrastructure has made it easier to travel.

Oh, and did I mention it may well be the cheapest destination in Europe? You can easily find hostel dorms for $10 or budget hotel rooms for around $25. Albanian cuisine is fantastic and a good lunch or dinner might cost you about $2 to $4.

Backpacker Budget: $25 a day

Mid-range Budget: $50 a day

Highlights: Hiking the Accursed Mountains, cheap beach stays, the historic town of Gjirokaster

When to go: peak season Jul-Aug — shoulder season Apr-Jun, Sep-Oct

5. MEXICO

Mexico is one of the cheapest places to travel in 2021 thanks to currency exchange fluctuations

Mexico is typically best known for its beach resorts like Cancun, Cabo, or Tulum. They’re great, though these tourist-priced locations are only ‘inexpensive’ if you compare them to, say, Miami or Hawaii. Many would already consider that a good deal, but if you really want cheap, you have to explore other places in Mexico.

One classic (and safe) cultural travel route runs from the buzzing Mexico City to Oaxaca and ending on the Yucatan Peninsula. If you’re on a budget, check out Chiapas state: it’s filled with jungles, waterfalls, and epic Mayan ruins — and travel costs are among the lowest in all of Mexico.

Backpacker Budget: $40 a day

Mid-range Budget: $65 a day

Highlights: hopping around the Yucatan, Mexico City, Oaxaca for foodies

When to go: peak season Jun-Sep, Jan — shoulder season Oct-Nov, Apr-May

6. ARGENTINA

Poor Argentina. Its economy has seen more ups and downs than a yo-yo. But for foreign travelers with Western currency, it still means Argentina is extraordinarily cheap. Much of its appeal is enjoying European-like development (Buenos Aires was once known as ‘the Paris of the south‘) but paying prices far below what you’d expect.

Just one thing: you will get the best prices by paying locally in Argentinian pesos that you’ve exchanged at the so-called “blue rate”. If you book hotels on international platforms then prices will be higher.

Oh, and Argentina is a delightful country to travel, of course. The north has Andean and Quechua regions as well as the epic waterfalls of Iguazu. Cities like Cordoba and Buenos Aires have so much culture to offer. And don’t miss the Patagonia mountain region in the far south, famed for its snowy peaks, glaciers, and the chance to see penguins and whales.

Tip: can’t find a cheap flight to Buenos Aires? Try Santiago, Chile, from where you can also launch your trip into northern Argentina

Backpacker Budget: $30 a day

Mid-range Budget: $50 a day

Highlights: Patagonia, Iguazu Falls, Buenos Aires

When to go: peak season Nov-Feb, shoulder season Sep-Oct, Mar-May

7. NEPAL

Oh, Nepal… you had me at “namaste.” The kind-hearted nature of the Nepalese and the wonderful bustle of Kathmandu instantly enchanted me when I visited a few years ago. Nepal also happens to be one of the world’s cheapest places for mountain trekking, whether guided or independent.

There are routes throughout the Himalayas that are very well-supported and have many tea houses where you can eat and sleep. When doing the epic 7-day trek to Annapurna Base Camp I spent just under $20 a day.

Backpacker Budget: $20 a day

Mid-range Budget: $40 a day

Highlights: chaotic Kathmandu, trekking in the Himalayas

When to go: peak season Oct-Nov — shoulder season Sep, Dec, Mar-Apr

8. CAPE VERDE

Can an entire country be labelled a ‘hidden gem’? If so, then Cape Verde is definitely one. This small archipelago off the coast of Africa is little-known but it’s such a wonderful winter escape.

The island of Sal is known for its inexpensive package holiday resorts, though for culture and nature, it’s truly all about the magnificent island of Santo Antao. I did some of my best hiking and trekking there in years. The landscapes are just unbelievable.

Cape Verde offers good value for money, while also being safe and fairly well developed. I spent about $45 a day as a budget traveler, staying in B&Bs and eating the local food. Don’t miss my 7 reasons why you should travel to Cape Verde.

Backpacker Budget: $45 a day

Mid-range Budget: $70 a day

Highlights: hiking on Santo Antao, beach resorts on Sal

When: peak season Dec-Jan, Jun-Sep — shoulder season Feb-Apr, Sep-Nov

9. VIETNAM

Vietnam is one the cheapest Asian countries — and one of the most exciting!

There is more to Vietnam than the typical itineraries. Take the northern province of Ha Giang, which is as pure and authentic as it gets. The limestone landscapes at Tam Coc are also not to miss. The town of Phong Nha is a fantastic adventure tourism and caving hotspot; camping inside the world’s third-biggest cave is a trip I’ll never forget

The costs in Vietnam? Simply put: very low. Eat local and you’ll struggle to spend more than a few dollars per meal, while locally brewed beers cost as little as $0.20 a glass. Hotel rooms offer incredible value; as little as $10 will get you a clean and comfortable place to stay. Whether you’re a backpacker or just looking for a holiday on a budget, Vietnam has you covered.

Backpacker Budget: $25 a day

Mid-range Budget: $45 a day

Highlights: Ha Long Bay, cute Hoi An, the chaos of Hanoi

When to go: peak season Nov-Mar, shoulder season Apr-Jun, Sep-Oct

10. ROMANIA

Seriously: don’t dismiss Romania.

People seem to have preconceptions about this Eastern European country. Only when they visit does the penny drop that it is simply incredible.

Just like the Dracula it inspired, the spectacular Transylvania region has a whole lot for you to sink your teeth in. Consider its cute medieval towns, ancient fortified churches, and mighty Carpathian mountain range. It’s perfect for a spring or summer trip, but equally enchanting in winter, with low-cost ski resorts and snow-covered castles.

You can easily get by on a backpacker budget of about $30 – $40 a day in Romania. If you’re on more of a holiday, you can find cute B&Bs starting at $30/night. Don’t miss out on this European travel secret.

Backpacker Budget: $40 a day

Mid-range Budget: $60 a day

Highlights: Towns in Transylvania, European safaris in the Carpathian

When to go: peak season Jun-Aug – shoulder season Apr-May, Sep-Oct

11. BOSNIA-HERZEGOVINA

Most people still associate Bosnia mainly with the war that took place there — checks calendar — an entire twenty-seven years ago.

But this Balkan country next to Croatia has gotten back on its feet and has so much to show you if you give it a chance.

The Medieval town of Mostar is a real highlight, its iconic bridge once connecting trade routes going as far as Venice and Constantinople. I was also impressed by the capital Sarajevo, which has such genuine warmth, interesting architecture, and a wonderful historic quarter. It’s delightfully budget-friendly and one of the truly underrated capitals of Europe.

Backpacker Budget: $30 a day

Mid-range Budget: $50 a day

Highlights: Sarajevo and Mostar

When to go: peak season Jul-Aug, shoulder season May-Jun and Sep

12. CAMBODIA

Angkor Wat in Cambodia, the cheapest country in Southeast Asia

You’ve probably heard of Angkor Wat— a vast temple complex that was once the heart of the ancient Khmer empire. This sprawling site is highly worth a visit, especially if you take the time to go beyond just the central temples.

But there is much more to Cambodia, from the gentle town of Kratie along the Mekong River, to the unspoiled jungles of the Cardamom Mountains and the laidback island of Koh Rong Sanloem. Happily, it’s also one of the cheapest destinations in Asia.

Backpacker Budget: $25 a day

Mid-range Budget: $45 a day

Highlights: Angkor Wat, Battambang, islands off the coast

When to go: peak season Dec-Feb, shoulder season Apr-May, Nov

13. LAOS

4000 Islands, Mekong River

Think of Laos as Thailand but without the mass tourism. It’s sparsely populated, mountainous, and has nearly 70% forest coverage, making it a paradise for outdoor activities like trekking, climbing, kayaking, zip-lining, and hot air ballooning — all at budget prices.

Thanks to improved infrastructure Laos has become more accessible in recent years while retaining its low-key rural vibe. That makes now the perfect time to go. If you want to escape the crowds and crave some authenticity, skip the Thai beaches and go to Laos. You won’t regret it.

Don’t miss sleeping in tree huts and zip-lining through the jungle canopy at the infamous Gibbon Experience, or Laos’ most epic waterfalls in the Bolaven Plateau.

Backpacker Budget: $25 a day

Mid-range Budget: $45 a day

Highlights: Luang Prabang, Mekong river journeys, the Gibbon Experience

When to go: peak season Nov-Feb, shoulder season Oct, Mar-Apr

14. INDIA

A “country of contrasts” is a travel writing cliche, but this definitely describes India. While it can be a place of poverty, India’s economy is also booming — and what’s most striking is the sheer range of development and prices you can experience.

A modern mid-range hotel in central Mumbai might cost you at least about 60 USD a night, whereas a room in the desert city of Jaisalmer might cost you just 5. That’s just India for you. But if you are on a budget, you can definitely travel India on a shoestring budget

Due to the chaos and patience needed India may not be the first overseas country to tackle, but many regions have a reputation for being particularly easy to travel, including the northern desert region of Rajasthan and the laidback tropical state of Kerala in the south.

Backpacker Budget: $15-20 a day

Mid-range Budget: $40 a day

When to go: peak season Nov-Feb, shoulder season Oct, Mar

15. INDONESIA

The Komodo islands, one of the top destinations in Indonesia

Indonesia’s best known destination is of course the resort island of Bali. But in this massive archipelago — that is wider than the United States — there is so much more to discover.

Consider Bali’s neighboring islands of Lombok and Java, the spectacular Komodo islands and rural Flores, or go further into Sumatra, West Nusa Tenggara, or Sulawesi. While many consider Bali cheap, Indonesia’s other islands are even more so.

From white sand beaches to jungles and savannahs, and from blue flame spewing volcanoes to remote rainforests where you can meet orangutans in the wild — Indonesia is a budget traveler’s dream.

Backpacker Budget: $30 a day

Mid-range Budget: $50 a day

Highlights: Bromo volcano, Borobodur temples, Bali, islands beyond Bali

When to go: peak season Jun-Sep, shoulder season Mar-May & Oct-Nov

16. BOLIVIA

Anyone looking for 5-star luxury should maybe give Bolivia a pass. Life is simple in these parts and travel can be slow and at times a bit uncomfortable. But… it’s also South America’s ultimate budget destination, where you could easily get by on about $20 a day.

Not only that, Bolivia has some of the continent’s most amazing sights, such as the world’s highest lake Titicaca and the jaw-dropping and otherworldly salt flats of Salar de Uyuni. With its remote feel and sense of adventure, it’s one of my favorite backpacker destinations in South America.

Not many airlines fly directly to Bolivia, but the country combines well with neighboring Peru, where the capital Lima is well connected internationally.

Backpacker Budget: $25 a day

Mid-range Budget: $45 a day

17. PHILIPPINES

The best beaches in Southeast Asia? If you ask me, with over 7,000 tropical islands, Philippines is the place to go.

Besides having oodles of unspoiled coastline, it’s also a culturally fascinating place, with its mix of Asian and Spanish/US colonial influences. You’ll also find spectacular rice terraces in the north and incredible nature with jungle and volcano treks.

Consider the island of Palawan, the diverse central Visayas islands or Batanes province, among many other destinations.

Backpacker Budget: $35 a day

Mid-range Budget: $60 a day

Highlights: islands in Palawan, surfing in Siargao, Batad rice terraces

When to go: peak season Dec-Feb — shoulder Nov, Apr-May

18. CUBA

“See it before it changes,” is the familiar refrain when it comes to Cuba. And it still feels very much like stepping through a time machine.

Before I visited I had always heard Cuba of as an expensive country, but this seems to be based on its state-run luxury hotels focused on high-spending tourists. Travel in Cuba can actually be quite easy on the wallet, especially when using its huge network of family-run Casas Particulares offering affordable and charming local accommodation.

With none of the typical signs of globalization, vintage cars still driving through the streets, not to mention all the rum, sun, and salsa — spending some time in Cuba is guaranteed to be a unique experience.

Backpacker Budget: $40 a day

Mid-range Budget: $65 a day

19. THE BALTIC STATES

Often overlooked and tucked between the Nordic countries and Russia you’ll find the three small Baltic states of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania.

Why go? Just think ‘Scandinavia on a budget’.

Squint your eyes and the Baltics may well remind you of Finland with its many woodlands, peat bogs, lakes, and log cabins painted in deep red. The people are similarly fond of cross-country skiing, saunas, and vodka. One key difference is that the costs are just a third of what you might find in the Nordics.

I enjoyed traveling in Estonia, which has a ton of history and charm all the while also being a tech startup powerhouse. While I was sipping some local IPAs in Tallinn, a few friendly Esti’s were regaling me with tales of IPOs.

Tallinn’s small tourist center can be a bit pricier, but the country as a whole is very inexpensive. Dinner is often under 7 Euro and hotel rooms go for 30 to 40 Euro a night.

Backpacker Budget: $35 a day

Mid-range Budget: $70 a day

20. GUATEMALA

In Central America, Costa Rica tends to get the most attention as a tourist destination thanks to its bundant wildlife and highly developed eco-tourism. But if you ask me, Guatemala deserves strong consideration as well. It may not be quite as developed, though its landscapes have a wow-factor that few countries can match.

Hidden in its northern jungles are the Mayan temples of Tikal, a stunning sight especially at sunrise. Equally breathtaking is the highland lake of Atitlan in the south, ringed by volcanoes and quaint villages where the pace of life is delightfully slow. And don’t miss Semuc Champey, a great place to explore river caves by candlelight and swim through cascading pools in the jungle.

And the best part? Many a traveler ends up spending under $25 a day in Guatemala.

Backpacker Budget: $25 a day

Mid-range Budget: $50 a day

21. MOROCCO

Morocco is just a stone’s throw from Europe and quite cheap to travel. That is, if you manage to steer clear of the pushy salesmen trying to sell you overpriced rugs and trinkets! If you only go on organized tours, you may find Morocco to be quite averagely priced, but expenses drop considerably when traveling independently.

For great value accommodation with a bit of luxury, consider staying in some of the iconic riads—traditional hotels with garden courtyards offering a pleasant relief from the buzzing city streets.

They say the Sahara has more grains of sand than there are stars in the universe, which is a wonderful idea to contemplate while you’re camping under a clear Milky Way sky in the middle of the Moroccan desert.

Backpacker Budget: $40 a day

Mid-range Budget: $60 a day

22. REPUBLIC OF GEORGIA

Georgia (the country) is a fascinating destination that’s right on the edge of Asia and Europe. It’s super cheap, sometimes even rivalling the low costs of countries in South or Southeast Asia. It’s currently dealing with an influx of Russian emigrants fleeing conscription, which has put tourism on a low boil, but it remains a wonderful destination to visit.

In its eccentric capital, crumbling façades of traditional wooden Georgian houses stand next to Soviet-era architecture and daring contemporary designs. I loved my stay in Tbilisi and was surprised by its wonderful soul and character. From Tbilisi, you can explore the stunning Caucasian Mountain range, take a dip in the Black Sea, or visit ancient hilltop monasteries (and a few of them even built inside caves).

With 1-year visas for remote workers, it’s an ideal digital nomad hub within a stone’s throw of Europe.

Backpacker Budget: $20 a day

Mid-range Budget: $40 a day

23. ARMENIA

Geghard monestary in Armenia

Something incredible happened in Armenia in 2018: the people peacefully protested its dictator, who eventually issued a polite mea culpa and promptly resigned. Ever since there’s been a sense of positivity in Armenia and increased interest in tourism there.

It’s still a poor country; its landscapes dotted with Soviet-era relics and ladas still drive the streets. Neighbouring Georgia might have more mainstream appeal for now, but you’ll love Armenia if you’re into places that are off the usual trail. I had the great fortune of visiting during Vardavar, an annual event in which the entire city of Yerevan fights each other with water pistols, balloons, and buckets. Even the police and fire brigade join in!

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