20 best cheap places to travel in 2026: Beautiful destinations on a budget

Where is the cheapest place to travel to right now?  

If you’re looking for the cheapest places to travel right now, your best bets are in Southeast Asia, South America, and Eastern Europe. These regions offer incredible experiences at a fraction of the price you’d pay elsewhere. For just a few dollars, you can get delicious street food in Thailand or visit charming European capitals like Sofia and Budapest.

We’ll walk you through some of the best cheap destinations to visit right now, detail what makes them special, and how much you can expect to spend. We hope this will help you plan a trip that’s big on experience but light on cost!

Cheap places to travel in Europe 

Europe isn’t really known as the most budget-friendly continent to visit, but that doesn’t mean affordable adventures aren’t possible. Some European countries offer incredible value without sacrificing charm, culture, or comfort. Forget Paris and Rome for a moment — your next unforgettable (and affordable) European adventure might be waiting somewhere unexpected. 

1. Budapest, Hungary

Budapest is a city that blends old-world grandeur with relaxed modern energy. At the same time, it’s surprisingly kind to your wallet.

The Danube River divides the city into two distinct areas — elegant Buda with its hilltop castle and panoramic views, and buzzing Pest, home to art nouveau cafés, ruin bars, and vibrant street life. But what makes Budapest truly special is its incredible thermal bath culture, built on natural hot springs that have been used since Roman times.

You can soak in the grandiose Széchenyi Thermal Bath (open daily 7 AM-8 PM) together with the iconic chess-playing locals, or experience the authentic Ottoman atmosphere at Rudas Thermal Bath, where daily Turkish bath tickets cost just around US$18. Most thermal baths stay open every day, including holidays, and some even offer night bathing on weekends.

Budget travelers can explore Budapest comfortably for US$35-50 per day, with hearty traditional meals costing US$8-12 and hostel beds starting at around US$12-15 per night.

2. Transylvania, Romania

You’ve probably heard of Transylvania, the home of Dracula. But did you also know that it’s a very affordable place to visit? Well, if you’ve ever been tempted by vampire legends and misty mountain castles, Transylvania might be your dream destination — this Romanian region is full of gothic charm, medieval towns, and eerie beauty. 

The real Dracula connection runs deeper than Bram Stoker’s fiction, though. Vlad the Impaler (Vlad Dracula), the brutal 15th-century Wallachian prince who inspired the vampire novel, was indeed connected to Transylvania. While scholars debate whether he actually lived in Bran Castle, the fortress certainly embodies the dark medieval atmosphere that made it legendary. Beyond the vampire lore, here you’ll discover perfectly preserved Saxon villages, fortified churches, and the stunning Carpathian Mountains that create those famously atmospheric misty mornings.

A Romanian meal there will set you back around US$5, a pint of local beer about US$1.50, and charming guesthouses start at US$10-12 per night. Round-trip flights from the US to Bucharest or Cluj-Napoca average US$700-900, making it a surprisingly budget-friendly escape.

3. Sofia, Bulgaria

Sofia packs a surprising punch for one of Europe’s most affordable capitals — and in 2026, it’s easier than ever to visit thanks to Bulgaria’s entry into the Schengen area on January 1. This 7,000-year-old city is a fascinating blend of eras and influences, where golden-domed Orthodox churches rise above Roman ruins, and snow-capped mountain views meet colorful street art and lively cafés.

Start your Sofia adventure at the magnificent St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral — one of the largest Orthodox churches in the Balkans — before joining one of the city’s excellent free walking tours to uncover its layers of history. Then dive into Sofia’s vibrant graffiti scene or explore the National Archaeological Museum for a glimpse into Bulgaria’s fascinating past. And when you need a break from the city, its parks provide the perfect escape. You can even take a day trip to see UNESCO-listed Rila Monastery — a wonderful mountain retreat and one of the country’s most treasured landmarks.

You can expect to spend around US$35 in Sofia per day. A traditional Bulgarian meal costs around US$8-12, local beer runs about US$2, and decent guesthouses start at US$15-20 per night. Round-trip flights from the U.S. to Sofia average US$387-718, depending on your departure city and timing.

4. Krakow, Poland

You might expect Poland’s former royal capital to come with royal prices, but actually, Krakow surprises you with medieval charm at refreshingly modern budget rates. This UNESCO World Heritage city captivates visitors with Europe’s largest market square (Rynek Główny), a magnificent St. Mary’s Basilica with its famous trumpet call, and the legendary Wawel Castle, overlooking the Vistula River.

The castle sits atop Wawel Hill, which according to local legend was once home to a terrible fire-breathing dragon that terrorized the city. It all continued until a clever shoemaker defeated it with a sulfur-filled sheep. Today, you can visit the actual Dragon’s Den cave beneath the hill and see the 6-meter fire-breathing dragon statue that commemorates this beloved tale.

As a student city, Krakow excels at delivering cheap food and authentic experiences without tourist markup — you’ll only need around US$30-50 per day. A meal at a local restaurant costs around US$7-10, with three-course dinners at mid-range places running for just US$14-18. Hostel dorm beds start from US$15 per night, while basic private rooms for two begin around US$58. Even tram tickets cost around US$1-2, making city exploration incredibly affordable.

5. Lisbon, Portugal

You might expect Portugal’s capital to come with incredibly high price tags, but Lisbon delivers its charm at surprisingly affordable rates. This hillside city captivates visitors with its iconic yellow Tram 28 winding through narrow streets, the magnificent Mosteiro dos Jerónimos showcasing Portugal’s golden age, and the historic Alfama neighborhood where colorful tiled buildings cascade down toward the Tagus River.

Have you ever heard about the city’s soul-stirring fado music, recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage? This mournful, expressive folk music originated in Lisbon’s oldest neighborhoods during the 1800s, capturing the Portuguese concept of saudade — a deep longing or yearning that’s central to Portuguese identity. You can experience live fado in traditional houses tucked into Alfama’s winding streets, where centuries of history and bohemia come alive through haunting melodies. And no Lisbon experience is complete without sampling pastéis de nata — iconic custard tarts — at the legendary Pastéis de Belém where they’ve been perfecting the recipe for generations

Portugal offers the lowest cost of living in Western Europe, and Lisbon proves this beautifully — you can explore the city comfortably for around US$43-80 per day. Daily food costs average around US$27, with individual meals running about US$11.

Cheap places to travel in the US 

Who says you need a passport to find incredible travel deals? While everyone’s fussing about expensive getaways abroad, some of the best experiences are hiding in your own backyard — and they won’t destroy your budget. We put together five US destinations which deliver authentic culture, unforgettable experiences, and prices that’ll make you wonder why you were stressing about international exchange rates in the first place. These are also some of the best places to visit in the USA for first time visitors! 

6. San Antonio, Texas

San Antonio proves that everything’s bigger in Texas — including the value you get for your travel dollar. The vibrant Tex-Mex capital attracts families, history buffs, and anyone craving authentic Mexican-American culture without the border crossing.

The famous River Walk offers miles of free strolling along scenic waterways, lined with restaurants serving Tex-Mex classics. The Alamo, Texas’s most iconic historical site, costs absolutely nothing to visit, while the city’s four UNESCO World Heritage missions provide hours of free exploration. Even the downtown atmosphere along the River Walk creates entertainment value without demanding entrance fees.

You can enjoy the city comfortably for about US$65 per day. Hotels start at just US$45–54 per night, and since most attractions cluster around the River Walk and downtown, you’ll save on transport, too. Daily costs average around US$35–45 for food and US$10–15 for drinks.

The best value timing? June through August, when hotel prices drop to their lowest despite the Texan heat. Domestic flights to San Antonio typically run US$200-400 from most US cities.

7. Nashville, Tennessee

Nashville attracts country music fans, live music enthusiasts, and anyone craving Southern hospitality mixed with honky-tonk energy. The city’s affordability stems from Tennessee’s lack of state income tax and a competitive music tourism industry that keeps many attractions accessible.

The famous Broadway strip offers free entertainment with no cover charges at most venues — you can bar-hop and catch live music all night without paying entrance fees. Beyond the music shows, Nashville delivers plenty of free experiences — the Tennessee State Museum, Centennial Park walks, Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park with Capitol building views, and mural hunting throughout the city. The famous Grand Ole Opry, while not free, offers tickets starting at just US$40.

Beers run for US$8-10 at Broadway bars, mixed drinks cost around US$11-16, and meals start at budget-friendly US$7-10 options. The key is to avoid tourist traps and seeking out established local eateries known for value-focused meals.

8. New Orleans, Louisiana

The Big Easy weaves a spell that goes far deeper than budget travel — this is where legends, spirits, and music collide in ways you won’t find anywhere else. New Orleans attracts jazz lovers, ghost hunters, and culture seekers drawn to a city where the famous Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau still reportedly wanders the French Quarter centuries after her death in 1881. Her tomb in St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 remains one of the city’s most visited spots, and locals swear they can still hear mysterious chanting and drumming from her former house.

This is also the birthplace of jazz itself, where legends like Louis Armstrong and Buddy Bolden created a uniquely American art form from the city’s incredible cultural melting pot of French, Spanish, Congolese, Haitian, and Native American influences.  If you want to hear the music live, the French Quarter delivers lots of free entertainment through street performers. Also, the New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park is known for its free jazz performances. However, skip the touristy Bourbon Street for authentic experiences on Frenchmen Street, where locals gather for genuine live music scenes.

New Orleans proves you don’t need a big budget to experience big flavor. A week in the city can cost between US$1,500 and US$3,000 in total, with most couples spending around US$150–200 per day for food, accommodation, and entertainment. The local dining scene offers incredible value — po’boys for about US$9, red beans and rice for under US$8, and plenty of budget-friendly meals in the US$5–15 range. Hostels often start at US$30–60 per night, while mid-range hotels offer comfortable stays without the hefty price tags of other major US cities.

9. Jackson Hole, Wyoming

At a glance, Jackson Hole might seem like a playground for the wealthy, but this stunning mountain town offers surprising value for outdoor enthusiasts willing to time their visit strategically. This Wyoming gem attracts adventure seekers, wildlife watchers, and anyone craving authentic experiences. The secret to affordable Jackson Hole trips lies in visiting during spring and fall, when hotel prices drop significantly from peak ski season rates, yet the natural attractions remain just as spectacular.

The real magic happens just outside town, where the Grand Teton National Park delivers million-dollar views for the cost of a park pass. Jenny Lake reflects the jagged Teton peaks, while trails to Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point reward hikers with magnificent scenery. The Snake River winds through valleys where you might spot moose, elk, or bears going about their daily business — nature’s own reality show, completely free of charge.

Spring transforms Jackson Hole into a budget traveler’s dream, with free outdoor concerts, uncrowded trails where you can actually hear your own steps, and wildlife emerging from winter hibernation in a spectacular seasonal show. The National Museum of Wildlife Art offers indoor culture when mountain weather turns unpredictable — and it’s refreshingly affordable compared to typical resort town attractions.

In spring and fall, hotel prices range from US$93-250 per night, with budget options starting as low as US$93 for basic accommodations and around US$130-145 for decent quality lodging. Summer brings slightly higher rates, with double rooms in the town starting around US$250, while upmarket lodges average US$550 and higher, so spring and fall offer the best lodging deals and package discounts.

10. Historic Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston wraps you in Southern charm so thick you can practically taste the sweet tea in the air. Surprisingly, your wallet won’t suffer from the experience. The Holy City earned its nickname from its skyline of church steeples, and today those same historic churches offer free tours alongside dozens of other budget-friendly attractions that showcase centuries of American history.

Charleston’s historic district can become your personal outdoor museum, where every cobblestone street tells a story you can explore for free. Wander past Rainbow Row’s famous pastel houses that look like beach vacation dreams turned into architecture, then cool off at Charleston Waterfront Park, where you’ll find the famous Pineapple Fountain.

The Charleston City Market buzzes with local artisans and sweetgrass basket weavers, offering hours of browsing without any pressure to buy. For harbor views that rival expensive boat tours, walk across the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge or explore the College of Charleston’s beautiful campus, where Spanish moss drapes ancient oaks. 

The federal per diem rates suggest US$68 per day for meals and US$110 for lodging, though budget hotels start from US$81 per night. Many accommodations include complimentary breakfast, helping keep daily costs down, while the city’s compact historic district means most attractions are within walking distance. Domestic flights to Charleston typically range US$200-450 from most US cities, and once you arrive, the abundance of free historic attractions mean you can spend days soaking up the culture without constantly reaching for your wallet.

Cheap places to travel in Asia 

The flight to Asia might be your biggest expense, but once you land, the incredible value becomes immediately apparent. In fact, these five destinations might completely flip your perspective on what travel should cost. Street food that rivals fancy restaurants, comfortable accommodations at a fraction of Western prices, and cultural experiences that remain in your memory forever — all of this will make you ask yourself why you didn’t come here earlier.

11. Bangkok, Thailand

It’s time to pack your bags for Thailand! Bangkok has a way of swamping every single one of your senses from the moment you step off the plane. The symphony of tuk-tuks weaving through the traffic, the intoxicating aroma of street food mixing with urban energy, the sight of ancient temples standing defiantly between glass towers — this beautiful chaos somehow works perfectly.

Like Thai cuisine, where sour, sweet, salty, and spicy can each feel overpowering alone but together create perfect balance, Bangkok offers incredibly varied choices that exist side by side. You can experience a Michelin-starred fine dining meal, discover a hipster café tucked inside a community mall, or pull up a plastic stool for som tam (papaya salad) at a street stall — all in the same day, all for a fraction of the price you’re used to at home.

The genuine Thai hospitality grounds you amid all this wonderful chaos. Whether it’s a street vendor asking "phet mai?" (do you like it spicy?) while preparing your pad thai, or locals offering directions with warm smiles, these small touches create memories that last far longer than any itinerary. It’s these authentic moments that make Bangkok addictive.

The rough edges aren’t flaws to be fixed — they’re part of the charm that draws people to this incredible city. Budget travelers can navigate this paradise for just around US$50 per day, covering hostel accommodation, street food for all meals, temple visits, and evening beers. 

Street food costs an incredible US$1-2 per dish for pad thai, fried rice, or mango sticky rice, while local restaurants charge just US$4-8 per meal. Many temples like Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen offer free entrance, letting you experience spiritual moments without spending a single dollar. Round-trip flights from the US run for US$800-1,200, but once you’re discovering your own perfect Thai flavor balance, you’ll understand why so many travelers never want to leave.

12. Hanoi, Vietnam

Hanoi overwhelms you with layers of sensory experiences. It’s a place where motorbike engines create a constant symphony, and the aroma of pho broth wafts from dawn till dusk. The best time to visit Vietnam, particularly Hanoi, is between October and April, when the weather is cooler, drier, and ideal for sightseeing. During these months, you can comfortably explore markets, temples, and street stalls without the intense heat or heavy rains of summer.

During this time, feel free to lose yourself in the Old Quarter’s maze of narrow lanes, where every corner reveals something new — from traditional water puppet shows to the cultural exhibits at the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology. When you need a breather, the leafy boulevards of the French Quarter offer elegant cafés and shaded strolls. And don’t forget the city’s bia hoi (fresh beer) corners — they will invite you to grab a cold local beer and simply watch Hanoi’s beautiful chaos unfold.

Vietnam is one of Asia’s most affordable and rewarding destinations for travelers on a budget. In Hanoi, you can spend a day exploring the city for around US$25, with local meals and accommodation included. Street food is famously cheap — a bowl of pho or a rice dish costs just US$1.60-2.40, and hostels or guesthouses usually range from US$5-15 per night.

13. Cebu, Philippines

The Cebu province is where the Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan first landed in March 1521, introducing Christianity and Spanish influence to the archipelago. The island’s legendary status grew when local chief Lapu-Lapu killed Magellan in the famous Battle of Mactan, making him an enduring symbol of Filipino resistance against colonization. But Cebu’s stories reach back even further — local creation myths tell of the Sun God falling in love with a sea nymph, and their son Lupa becoming the island itself.

This stunning Philippine island attracts backpackers and diving enthusiasts drawn to destinations offering both ancient legends and crystal-clear waters. The island maintains its storytelling tradition through the "babayeng sugid," where women serve as custodians of myths, legends, and cautionary tales that have been passed down through generations. Pre-colonial Bisayan deities called "diwata" once ruled these islands, and their spirit seems to linger in the natural wonders you’ll encounter.

Traveling through this tropical paradise doesn’t have to be expensive — you can enjoy it for as little as US$17–26 per day if you stick to hostels and local meals. Most visitors, however, find that a budget of around US$45–55 a day offers the perfect balance of comfort, covering nice accommodation, tours, and transport. Local eateries known as “carinderias” serve delicious Filipino dishes for just a few dollars, which leaves room in your budget for unforgettable adventures like canyoneering at Kawasan Falls or swimming alongside whale sharks in Oslob.

14. Jakarta, Indonesia

Jakarta is a sprawling metropolis of over 10 million people — one of the world’s most fascinating urban experiments, where ancient traditions collide with modern ambitions. The city transformed from the Hindu port of Sunda Kelapa into Dutch colonial Batavia in 1619, then emerged as Indonesia’s diverse capital, where Javanese, Indian, Chinese, and Dutch influences create a unique cultural melting pot.

In the historic Old Town (Kota Tua), you can admire Dutch colonial architecture and go on a free visit to the Fatahillah Museum, where Jakarta’s complex history unfolds through centuries of transformation. The iconic Monas (National Monument) in Merdeka Square provides the city’s most famous landmark, while the massive Istiqlal Mosque and nearby Jakarta Cathedral demonstrate the religious tolerance that defines modern Jakarta.

You can explore Jakarta for just US$20-35 per day, with basic accommodations from US$8-25 per night. Food provides both adventure and savings — restaurant meals average about US$28 daily, while street vendors and local warungs (small eateries) serve authentic Indonesian dishes for a fraction of that cost. Mid-range options cost US$50-90 per day, offering comfort and excellent value compared with other major Asian cities.

15. Kathmandu, Nepal

Kathmandu serves as the gateway to the Himalayas and one of the world’s most spiritually rich experiences — and it still treats your budget more gently than almost anywhere else on Earth. This ancient valley city attracts trekkers preparing for legendary adventures, spiritual seekers exploring Buddhism and Hinduism at their sources, and travelers looking for unique experiences. The city pulses with prayer wheels spinning at Buddhist stupas, Hindu cremation ceremonies along sacred rivers, and the constant hum of motorbikes navigating narrow old streets.

Kathmandu is also strikingly close to the Himalayas. On clear days, peaks like Ganesh Himal (7,422 m), Langtang Lirung (7,227 m), and even the Everest can be seen from Nagarkot or Chandragiri Hill. For serious trekkers, the Everest Base Camp journey starts here with a short flight to Lukla. But the city’s spiritual landmarks are also unforgettable — Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple, and Swayambhunath (the Monkey Temple) offer breathtaking views and cultural immersion. For those less inclined to trek, nearby hill stations provide easier mountain vistas.

However, while Kathmandu is generally safe for visitors, it’s important to stay aware of the local situation. At the moment, the US Department of State advises to reconsider travel to Nepal — civil unrest and political instability can flare up unexpectedly, with demonstrations sometimes turning violent, and curfews imposed at short notice. Travelers are strongly encouraged to follow local news, avoid protest areas, and heed authorities’ instructions — staying informed is the best way to keep your trip safe and enjoyable.

Travelers can live incredibly well in Kathmandu for just US$18 per day, with Nepal overall averaging an astonishing US$15 daily for budget travel.

Cheap places to travel in Africa  

Is breaking the bank for safari adventures the first thing that comes to your mind when you think of traveling to Africa? These five destinations will flip your perspective on what international travel can actually cost. Prepare for ancient pyramids accessible for a few dollars, bustling markets where haggling becomes actual entertainment, and stunning landscapes that cost nothing to explore.

16. Marrakech, Morocco

Marrakech will reach your senses in the most beautiful way possible — imagine stepping into a living, breathing Arabian Nights story where snake charmers compete with street food vendors and centuries-old palaces hide behind unmarked doors.

If the sensory overload becomes overwhelming, you can find a safe sanctuary. One of the best options is to visit the serene Majorelle Garden with its famous cobalt blue buildings, exotic plants, and Berber Museum. Fun fact — this tranquil oasis was once owned by fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent.

History lovers will marvel at the contrasting palaces — Bahia Palace showcases living luxury from the 19th century as one of Marrakech’s best-preserved monuments, while the ruins of El Badi Palace tell stories of Morocco’s lost empire. Throughout it all, the bustling souks weave chaotic, vibrant marketplaces through the medina’s maze-like network of stalls, where getting completely lost becomes part of the authentic Marrakech experience.

Street food like b’ssara (fava bean soup) costs less than US$2, and local restaurants serve tagines for US$3-8. With lots of haggling opportunities in the medina, negotiation becomes part of the adventure, while many of the city’s most stunning sights can be enjoyed entirely for free. Traveling here in comfort typically costs around US$30-45 per day.

17. Cairo, Egypt

Cairo is a must for every history enthusiast, and with the 2026 opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum — the world’s largest archaeological museum devoted to a single civilization — there has never been a better time to visit. But the city offers more than its famous landmarks. Cairo unfolds in layers, and travelers on a budget can explore its rich history and vibrant streets without spending a fortune.

Just outside Cairo, the Giza plateau rises with the iconic pyramids of Khufu, Khafre, and Menkaure, watched over by the Great Sphinx. Many visitors head straight to Giza, yet the city itself brims with treasures — vibrant markets, historic mosques, and cultural experiences waiting to be discovered. Only 25 kilometers further south lies Saqqara, the vast necropolis of ancient Memphis, where the Step Pyramid of Djoser, the world’s oldest, continues to yield remarkable discoveries.

In the heart of Cairo, the newly opened Grand Egyptian Museum showcases over 50,000 artifacts, including the complete Tutankhamun collection. Also, the original Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square still holds tens of thousands of treasures, including a carefully preserved replica of the Rosetta Stone. Between museum visits, you should wander the winding alleys of Khan El-Khalili bazaar, savor koshary — Egypt’s national dish of rice, macaroni, and lentils — and end the day with the hypnotic spin of Sufi whirling dervishes at Wekalet El Ghouri Arts Centre.

Exploring Egypt doesn’t require a big budget. Traditional meals offer authentic flavors at a fraction of Western prices, Uber rides cost just a few dollars, and entrance fees to most sites remain remarkably low. Travelers can experience this archaeological wonderland comfortably for as little as US$15 per day, and a more generous budget of US$100 per day easily covers extensive shopping and multiple museum visits.

18. Zanzibar, Tanzania

Zanzibar feels like paradise, where the scent of cloves and cardamom drifts through ancient streets, and sandy beaches stretch beneath swaying palms. The archipelago charms travelers with a unique fusion of cultures — Arabian architecture blends with Swahili rhythms, Indian spice markets, and warm African hospitality.

Begin your adventure in Stone Town, the historic heart of Zanzibar and one of the finest examples of a Swahili coastal trading town. Built from coral stone, it preserves much of its 19th-century character from its days as a major hub for slave trade and spice commerce. Landmarks like the House of Wonders — once the Sultan’s palace and the first building in East Africa with electricity — reflect the town’s former grandeur, while spice tours reveal why Zanzibar earned its nickname, the Spice Islands.

Beyond Stone Town, island adventures await. Prison Island (Changuu Island) offers encounters with giant Aldabra tortoises and snorkeling opportunities, while Jozani Forest is home to the endangered red colobus monkeys, found nowhere else on Earth.

Zanzibar offers unforgettable experiences without high prices. You can spend your days touring fragrant spice plantations, island hopping to pristine beaches, snorkeling with vibrant marine life, or exploring local culture — all for just US$25-51 per day. Comfortable budget accommodations start at US$20-50 per night, and authentic Swahili meals cost as little as US$5-12 when you eat like a local.

19. Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town earns its nickname — the Mother City — as South Africa’s first modern metropolis, founded by the Dutch East India Company in 1652. This historic city of nearly five million proud Capetonians has evolved from a crucial global trading post into one of the world’s most stunning destinations. While the city carries a complex apartheid-era history that ended in 1994, Cape Town has transformed into a tourism magnet — the 2010 FIFA World Cup sparked international interest that continues to grow, now served by direct flights from three airports in the United States.

Cape Town combines natural beauty with rich history, making every experience feel worthwhile. Table Mountain dominates the skyline as one of the world’s most iconic landmarks — take the cable car for breathtaking views or tackle the hiking trails if you’re seeking adventure. A short drive brings you to Simon’s Town, where African penguins waddle along the pristine sands of Boulders Beach. And just beyond the city, the Cape Winelands invite day trips to historic estates like Stellenbosch and Groot Constantia, where centuries-old vineyards pair world-class wine tastings with stunning mountain scenery.

South Africa’s favorable exchange rate creates exceptional value for American visitors — daily expenses of US$95 cover most experiences, while US$179 provides mid-range luxury that would cost double elsewhere. Most travelers find that US$75 daily easily covers food, accommodation, and entertainment. Many combination tours bundle Table Mountain access, penguin viewing, and wine tasting into a single package, minimizing individual costs.

20. Lagos, Nigeria

Lagos pulses with the vibrant energy of West Africa’s cultural and economic hub. Streets are full of Afrobeat sounds, contemporary art thrives, and bustling markets offer authentic Nigerian experiences at prices that seem almost unreal. This megacity of over 20 million draws culture enthusiasts, art lovers, and adventurous travelers seeking Nigeria’s rich heritage, dynamic creative scene, and some of Africa’s most affordable urban experiences. Lagos showcases authentic city life without the premium costs found in other major continental destinations.

The city’s cultural landscape reveals itself in unexpected ways. The Nike Centre for Art and Culture houses one of Africa’s largest galleries, blending contemporary Nigerian works with traditional crafts. Balogun Market turns fabric shopping into a sensory adventure, with vibrant textiles and traditional materials creating walls of color and texture. For natural escapes, the Lekki Conservation Centre offers canopy walkways through preserved ecosystems. Guided tours, such as the Lagos Heritage Tour and Makoko Floating Community Tour, provide authentic insights into the city’s complex social fabric.

Lagos also delivers exceptional value. Daily costs range from as little as US$7-16 per person for budget travel to US$30-50 for more comfortable stays covering accommodation, meals, transportation, and activities. Generous budgets around US$100 can unlock luxury experiences unmatched in many other major cities. Road transport options make comprehensive city exploration possible for as little as US$43, including transport and accommodation. The best time to visit is December through February, when weather conditions are most favorable.

Additional tips to save money while traveling 

With smart planning, you can cut costs without missing out on experiences. These strategies will help you stretch your travel budget while enjoying authentic destinations at a fraction of the usual expense:

• Book flights and accommodation strategically. Sunday bookings offer the best savings — domestic travelers save 6% while international travelers save 17% compared to Monday or Friday bookings. For hotels, book domestic travel on Mondays and international travel on Tuesdays for optimal rates. The golden rule remains booking early and traveling during low season, as there’s no real trick beyond timing.

• Stay flexible with dates and destinations. Use tools like Google Flights to track routes and dates, set alternative airports, and remain open to schedule adjustments. Flexibility often unlocks deals that rigid planning misses.

• Think beyond traditional hotels. Consider university dorms (often available during breaks), hostels, and other alternative accommodations that cost significantly less than standard hotels. Longer stays often qualify for weekly or monthly discounts.

• Eat where locals eat. Avoid tourist restaurant districts and seek out local markets, food trucks, and neighborhood eateries where prices reflect local economies rather than tourist premiums. Street food and local markets often provide the most authentic and affordable dining experiences.

• Take advantage of free activities. Many cities offer free walking tours, museums with free admission days, public parks, beaches, and cultural events that provide rich experiences without costs.

• Choose the right connectivity option. Making a good decision on connectivity options can significantly impact your travel budget. Unfortunately, poor planning can result in shocking roaming charges, because international roaming through major carriers can be extremely expensive. Your best option is to get an eSIM app — it will deliver the same connectivity at much lower costs, often saving up to 60-80% compared to traditional roaming plans.

How can the Saily eSIM app save you money on your trip? 

Don’t let connectivity costs sabotage your travel budget! While major carriers charge hefty daily fees for international roaming, the Saily eSIM app offers affordable data plans across 200+ destinations. And if you’re planning to travel to a few different locations, you might want to consider getting the Saily Ultra plan that comes with many additional perks, such as airport lounge access and a NordVPN subscription.

The money you’d save on connectivity could fund extra days exploring cities, street food adventures, or cultural experiences throughout your trip. So for travelers pursuing the budget-conscious experiences, Saily is the best option — its prepaid model eliminates surprise charges.

Also, the digital setup means instant connectivity without hunting for SIM cards abroad. It’s another part of smart travel planning — staying connected to authentic experiences while protecting the budget that makes extended travel possible. Just download the Saily eSIM app, save money and stay connected!