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Best budget travel destinations in 2023 :
The world is full of cheap travel destinations. And it doesn’t take much effort to find it today. Whatever your continent and interests. There are a lot of places you can visit on a budget.
As long as you do your research, no destination is really “too expensive”. Be creative and flexible You may not live long during your visit.
Luckily, there are a few destinations that can make cheap travel easy, fun, and safe.
After being a frugal nomad for over a decade, I’ve had the privilege of visiting dozens of low-cost countries that make traveling on a budget as easy as possible.
These destinations offer affordable accommodation, cheap food and plenty of activities and excursions that can be done for free.
Whether you are a history buff, foodie, beach lover or party lover. This project has what you need.
Here’s a list of my favorite cheap travel destinations right now to help you plan your next budget adventure:
1. Thailand
Thailand is a country located in Southeast Asia known for its rich culture, tropical beaches, ancient temples, and delicious cuisine. Some of the most popular travel destinations in Thailand include:
- Bangkok – The capital city of Thailand, famous for its vibrant street life, shopping, and delicious street food.
- Phuket – A beautiful island located in the Andaman Sea, known for its beaches, nightlife, and water sports.
- Chiang Mai – A city in northern Thailand, known for its ancient temples, night markets, and stunning natural scenery.
- Krabi – A coastal province located in southern Thailand, known for its stunning beaches and rock formations.
- Pattaya – A beach resort town located on the east coast of the Gulf of Thailand, known for its vibrant nightlife and water sports.
- Koh Samui – An island located in the Gulf of Thailand, known for its beaches, diving, and luxurious resorts.
- Ayutthaya – An ancient city located north of Bangkok, known for its stunning ruins and historical significance.
- Kanchanaburi – A province located west of Bangkok, known for its natural beauty, waterfalls, and World War II history.
- Hua Hin – A seaside resort town located on the Gulf of Thailand, known for its beaches, golf courses, and upscale resorts.
- Phi Phi Islands – A group of islands located in the Andaman Sea, known for their stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters.
2. Central America
Central America is a region located between North America and South America that comprises seven countries: Belize, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Panama. The region is known for its natural beauty, rich culture, ancient ruins, and stunning beaches. Some of the most popular travel destinations in Central America include:
- Costa Rica – Known for its tropical rainforests, biodiversity, and adventure tourism activities such as zip-lining and white-water rafting.
- Panama – Famous for its Panama Canal, a man-made waterway that connects the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans.
- Guatemala – Home to ancient Mayan ruins such as Tikal, as well as colonial architecture and indigenous markets.
- Belize – Known for its barrier reef, diving, and snorkeling, as well as ancient Mayan ruins and lush jungles.
- Honduras – Home to the ancient Mayan city of Copan, as well as stunning beaches on the Caribbean coast.
- Nicaragua – Known for its colonial architecture, volcanic landscapes, and beautiful beaches on the Pacific coast.
- El Salvador – Famous for its surfing beaches, national parks, and archaeological sites.
Each country in Central America has its own unique attractions, culture, and history, making it a fascinating destination for travelers.
3. Cambodia
Cambodia is a country located in Southeast Asia known for its rich culture, ancient temples, and beautiful landscapes. Some of the most popular travel destinations in Cambodia include:
- Angkor Wat – A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest religious monuments in the world, known for its intricate carvings and stunning architecture.
- Phnom Penh – The capital city of Cambodia, known for its lively markets, historical sites, and delicious street food.
- Siem Reap – A city located near Angkor Wat, known for its lively night markets, luxury hotels, and vibrant arts scene.
- Battambang – A city located in the northwest of Cambodia, known for its colonial architecture, cultural performances, and scenic countryside.
- Sihanoukville – A coastal city located in the southwest of Cambodia, known for its beautiful beaches and tropical islands.
- Koh Ker – A remote temple complex located in the northeast of Cambodia, known for its ancient ruins and peaceful atmosphere.
- Kampot – A small town located in the south of Cambodia, known for its scenic riverside location, pepper plantations, and colonial architecture.
- Kep – A coastal town located in the south of Cambodia, known for its seafood, beautiful beaches, and national park.
- Tonle Sap Lake – The largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia, known for its floating villages and diverse wildlife.
Cambodia has a lot to offer travelers, from stunning ancient temples to beautiful natural landscapes and delicious cuisine.
4. The Balkans
The Balkans is a region in southeastern Europe that encompasses several countries, including Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Greece, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, and Slovenia. The region is known for its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning natural landscapes. Some of the most popular travel destinations in the Balkans include:
- Dubrovnik, Croatia – Known for its stunning medieval architecture, picturesque old town, and crystal-clear waters.
- Belgrade, Serbia – A vibrant city located at the confluence of two major European rivers, known for its nightlife, cultural attractions, and historical sites.
- Athens, Greece – The capital city of Greece, known for its ancient history, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine.
- Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina – A multicultural city known for its historical sites, museums, and stunning natural scenery.
- Sofia, Bulgaria – The capital city of Bulgaria, known for its cultural attractions, beautiful parks, and delicious cuisine.
- Skopje, North Macedonia – A city known for its mix of Ottoman and modern architecture, as well as its lively markets and stunning natural scenery.
- Ljubljana, Slovenia – The capital city of Slovenia, known for its charming old town, beautiful parks, and outdoor cafes.
- Bucharest, Romania – The capital city of Romania, known for its architecture, museums, and vibrant nightlife.
- Kotor, Montenegro – A picturesque coastal town known for its medieval architecture, stunning natural scenery, and crystal-clear waters.
The Balkans offer a wealth of attractions for travelers, from stunning architecture and historical sites to beautiful beaches and natural landscapes.
5. China
China is a vast and diverse country located in East Asia, known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and stunning natural beauty. Some of the most popular travel destinations in China include:
- Beijing – The capital city of China, known for its ancient landmarks such as the Great Wall of China, the Forbidden City, and the Temple of Heaven.
- Shanghai – A modern metropolis known for its skyscrapers, historic neighborhoods, and vibrant nightlife.
- Xi’an – A city known for its ancient history and the Terracotta Army, a collection of terracotta sculptures depicting the armies of Qin Shi Huang, the first Emperor of China.
- Guilin – A city known for its stunning natural landscapes, including the Li River and karst mountains.
- Chengdu – A city known for its pandas, spicy cuisine, and rich history.
- Hangzhou – A city known for its scenic beauty, including the West Lake, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Lijiang – A city located in Yunnan Province, known for its traditional architecture, rich culture, and stunning natural scenery.
- Tibet – An autonomous region in southwestern China known for its Buddhist culture, high-altitude landscapes, and Mount Everest.
- Hong Kong – A special administrative region of China known for its skyscrapers, bustling markets, and stunning harbor views.
China offers a wide range of travel experiences, from ancient landmarks and rich cultural heritage to modern cities and stunning natural beauty.
6. India
India is a vast and diverse country located in South Asia, known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and stunning landscapes. Some of the most popular travel destinations in India include:
- Taj Mahal – A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Wonders of the World, known for its stunning white marble architecture and rich history.
- Jaipur – The capital city of Rajasthan, known for its beautiful palaces, forts, and rich culture.
- Kerala – A state located in southern India, known for its beautiful backwaters, beaches, and lush green landscapes.
- Goa – A state located on the west coast of India, known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and Portuguese heritage.
- Delhi – The capital city of India, known for its rich history, monuments, and vibrant street life.
- Varanasi – A city located on the banks of the River Ganges, known for its religious significance and ancient temples.
- Mumbai – The financial capital of India, known for its vibrant culture, architecture, and Bollywood film industry.
- Agra – The city where the Taj Mahal is located, known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and bustling markets.
- Ladakh – A region located in the northernmost part of India, known for its stunning landscapes, high-altitude lakes, and Buddhist culture.
India offers a wide range of travel experiences, from ancient landmarks and rich cultural heritage to stunning natural beauty and vibrant city life.
7. Georgia
Georgia is a country located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and delicious cuisine. Some of the most popular travel destinations in Georgia include:
- Tbilisi – The capital city of Georgia, known for its charming old town, stunning architecture, and vibrant nightlife.
- Svaneti – A mountainous region located in western Georgia, known for its stunning landscapes, ancient towers, and traditional culture.
- Batumi – A coastal city located on the Black Sea, known for its beautiful beaches, modern architecture, and lively atmosphere.
- Kazbegi – A mountainous region located in northern Georgia, known for its stunning landscapes, ancient monasteries, and outdoor activities such as hiking and skiing.
- Kakheti – A region located in eastern Georgia, known for its vineyards, wine cellars, and traditional wine-making techniques.
- Vardzia – A cave monastery complex located in southern Georgia, known for its stunning architecture, ancient frescoes, and historical significance.
- Uplistsikhe – An ancient cave city located in central Georgia, known for its stunning rock-cut structures and historical significance.
- Mtskheta – A small town located near Tbilisi, known for its ancient churches, monasteries, and historical significance.
Georgia offers a unique travel experience, with its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. Its delicious cuisine and traditional wine-making techniques are also major draws for travelers.
8. Portugal
Portugal is a beautiful country located in southwestern Europe, known for its stunning beaches, historic cities, and delicious cuisine. Some of the most popular travel destinations in Portugal include:
- Lisbon – The capital city of Portugal, known for its stunning architecture, vibrant culture, and historic neighborhoods such as Alfama and Bairro Alto.
- Porto – A coastal city located in northern Portugal, known for its historic old town, beautiful bridges, and world-famous port wine.
- Algarve – A region located in southern Portugal, known for its stunning beaches, beautiful cliffs, and outdoor activities such as hiking, surfing, and golfing.
- Sintra – A small town located near Lisbon, known for its stunning palaces, castles, and gardens, including the famous Pena Palace.
- Madeira – An archipelago located off the coast of Portugal, known for its lush green landscapes, beautiful beaches, and traditional culture.
- Coimbra – A historic city located in central Portugal, known for its ancient university, beautiful architecture, and rich cultural heritage.
- Évora – A small city located in southern Portugal, known for its well-preserved Roman ruins, beautiful cathedral, and historic old town.
- Azores – An archipelago located in the mid-Atlantic, known for its stunning landscapes, natural hot springs, and outdoor activities such as whale watching and hiking.
Portugal offers a unique travel experience, with its stunning beaches, historic cities, and beautiful natural landscapes. Its delicious cuisine, including fresh seafood, pastries, and port wine, is also a major draw for travelers.
9. Mexico
Mexico is a country located in North America, known for its rich history, vibrant culture, stunning beaches, and delicious cuisine. Some of the most popular travel destinations in Mexico include:
- Cancun – A coastal city located in the Yucatan Peninsula, known for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and ancient Mayan ruins.
- Mexico City – The capital city of Mexico, known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and vibrant culture, including museums, markets, and delicious food.
- Tulum – A coastal town located in the Yucatan Peninsula, known for its stunning beaches, ancient Mayan ruins, and eco-friendly resorts.
- Oaxaca – A historic city located in southern Mexico, known for its beautiful colonial architecture, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine.
- Puerto Vallarta – A coastal city located on the Pacific Coast, known for its beautiful beaches, lively atmosphere, and stunning sunsets.
- Cabo San Lucas – A coastal city located on the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula, known for its beautiful beaches, outdoor activities such as fishing and diving, and luxury resorts.
- Guanajuato – A historic city located in central Mexico, known for its beautiful colonial architecture, colorful buildings, and rich cultural heritage.
- Playa del Carmen – A coastal city located in the Yucatan Peninsula, known for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and access to the ancient Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza and Tulum.
Mexico offers a wide range of travel experiences, from stunning beaches and ancient ruins to rich history and vibrant culture. Its delicious cuisine, including tacos, enchiladas, and tequila, is also a major draw for travelers.
10. Morocco
Morocco is a country located in North Africa, known for its stunning architecture, vibrant culture, and beautiful natural landscapes. Some of the most popular travel destinations in Morocco include:
- Marrakech – A historic city located in central Morocco, known for its stunning architecture, vibrant markets, and traditional culture.
- Fes – A historic city located in northern Morocco, known for its well-preserved medieval old town, stunning mosques, and ancient madrasas.
- Chefchaouen – A small town located in northern Morocco, known for its beautiful blue-painted buildings, stunning views, and laid-back atmosphere.
- Casablanca – The largest city in Morocco, known for its stunning architecture, including the famous Hassan II Mosque, and vibrant culture.
- Essaouira – A coastal city located in western Morocco, known for its stunning beaches, traditional markets, and relaxed atmosphere.
- Atlas Mountains – A stunning mountain range located in central Morocco, known for its beautiful landscapes, including waterfalls, valleys, and traditional Berber villages.
- Sahara Desert – A vast desert located in southern Morocco, known for its stunning landscapes, including sand dunes, oases, and traditional nomad camps.
- Rabat – The capital city of Morocco, known for its stunning historic landmarks, including the Hassan Tower, the Kasbah of the Udayas, and the Royal Palace.
Morocco offers a unique travel experience, with its stunning architecture, vibrant culture, and beautiful natural landscapes. Its delicious cuisine, including tagine, couscous, and mint tea, is also a major draw for travelers.
CONCLUSION
If you’re a seasoned traveler, you’ll know how to get the most out of your money no matter where you go in the world. But when the places he’s visiting are already affordable, it’s much easier for him to travel on a budget. Let him make the most of his budget without breaking the bank!