Traveling can be expensive, but it doesn’t have to be. There are many budget-friendly destinations around the world that offer stunning natural landscapes, vibrant cultures, and exciting experiences without breaking the bank. In this article, we’ll explore the top five budget-friendly destinations for each continent and provide approximate costs for accommodation and food.
Affordable destinations in North America
- Mexico – Mexico is a popular destination for budget-conscious travelers, thanks to its beautiful beaches, rich history, and delicious food. Accommodation can cost as little as $20 per night, while a meal at a local restaurant can be as cheap as $5.
- Montreal, Canada – Montreal is a cosmopolitan city with a European vibe, and it’s also one of the most affordable cities in North America. Accommodation can cost as little as $30 per night, while a meal at a local restaurant can be as cheap as $10.
- Nicaragua – Nicaragua is a Central American gem that’s still relatively undiscovered by tourists. Accommodation can cost as little as $15 per night, while a meal at a local restaurant can be as cheap as $3.
- New Orleans, USA – New Orleans is a city with a unique culture and a vibrant music scene. Accommodation can cost as little as $40 per night, while a meal at a local restaurant can be as cheap as $10.
- Cuba – Cuba is a Caribbean island that’s frozen in time, with colourful colonial architecture and vintage cars lining the streets. Accommodation can cost as little as $20 per night, while a meal at a local restaurant can be as cheap as $5.

Affordable destinations in South America
- Peru – Peru is a South American country that’s home to the iconic Machu Picchu and a rich Inca history. Accommodation can cost as little as $15 per night, while a meal at a local restaurant can be as cheap as $2.
- Bolivia – Bolivia is a landlocked country that’s home to the stunning Salar de Uyuni salt flats and vibrant indigenous culture. Accommodation can cost as little as $10 per night, while a meal at a local restaurant can be as cheap as $2.
- Ecuador – Ecuador is a small country with a diverse landscape, from the Andes Mountains to the Galapagos Islands. Accommodation can cost as little as $15 per night, while a meal at a local restaurant can be as cheap as $2.
- Colombia – Colombia is a country that’s rapidly growing in popularity among travellers, thanks to its stunning beaches, vibrant cities, and welcoming people. Accommodation can cost as little as $15 per night, while a meal at a local restaurant can be as cheap as $3.
- Argentina – Argentina is a country with a rich culture, stunning natural landscapes, and delicious food. Accommodation can cost as little as $20 per night, while a meal at a local restaurant can be as cheap as $5.

Affordable destinations in Europe
- Bulgaria – Bulgaria is a country in Eastern Europe that’s still relatively undiscovered by tourists. It’s home to stunning mountain ranges, beautiful beaches, and charming towns. Accommodation can cost as little as $15 per night, while a meal at a local restaurant can be as cheap as $5.
- Hungary – Hungary is a country in Central Europe that’s known for its beautiful architecture, delicious food, and affordable prices. Accommodation can cost as little as $20 per night, while a meal at a local restaurant can be as cheap as $5.
- Portugal – Portugal is a country on the Iberian Peninsula that’s home to stunning beaches, historic towns, and delicious cuisine. Accommodation can cost as little as $20 per night, while a meal at a local restaurant can be as cheap as $10.
- Romania – Romania is a country in Eastern Europe that’s home to medieval castles, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities. Accommodation can cost as little as $15 per night, while a meal at a local restaurant can be as cheap as $5.
- Greece – Greece is a country in Southern Europe that’s home to ancient ruins, beautiful islands, and delicious Mediterranean cuisine. Accommodation can cost as little as $25 per night, while a meal at a local restaurant can be as cheap as $10.

Affordable destinations in Asia
- Vietnam – Vietnam is a Southeast Asian country that’s home to stunning natural landscapes, rich history, and delicious food. Accommodation can cost as little as $10 per night, while a meal at a local restaurant can be as cheap as $2.
- Sri Lanka – Sri Lanka is an island nation off the coast of India that’s home to beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and ancient Buddhist temples. Accommodation can cost as little as $15 per night, while a meal at a local restaurant can be as cheap as $2.
- Nepal – Nepal is a landlocked country in South Asia that’s home to the majestic Himalayan mountain range and a vibrant Buddhist culture. Accommodation can cost as little as $10 per night, while a meal at a local restaurant can be as cheap as $2.
- Indonesia – Indonesia is an archipelago nation in Southeast Asia that’s home to stunning beaches, active volcanoes, and a diverse culture. Accommodation can cost as little as $10 per night, while a meal at a local restaurant can be as cheap as $2.
- Thailand – Thailand is a country in Southeast Asia that’s home to beautiful beaches, stunning temples, and delicious street food. Accommodation can cost as little as $15 per night, while a meal at a local restaurant can be as cheap as $2.

Affordable destinations in Africa
- Morocco – Morocco is a North African country that’s home to vibrant cities, stunning deserts, and delicious Moroccan cuisine. Accommodation can cost as little as $15 per night, while a meal at a local restaurant can be as cheap as $2.
- Tanzania – Tanzania is an East African country that’s home to the Serengeti National Park, Mount Kilimanjaro, and beautiful beaches. Accommodation can cost as little as $15 per night, while a meal at a local restaurant can be as cheap as $2.
- Egypt – Egypt is a North African country that’s home to ancient pyramids, stunning temples, and delicious Egyptian cuisine. Accommodation can cost as little as $15 per night, while a meal at a local restaurant can be as cheap as $2.
- South Africa – South Africa is a country at the southern tip of Africa that’s home to stunning wildlife, beautiful beaches, and vibrant cities. Accommodation can cost as little as $20 per night, while a meal at a local restaurant can be as cheap as $5.
- Madagascar – Madagascar is an island nation off the coast of East Africa that’s home to unique wildlife, beautiful beaches, and stunning rainforests. Accommodation can cost as little as $20 per night, while a meal at a local restaurant can be as cheap as $3.

Conclusion
Travelling on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing experiences or missing out on stunning destinations around the world. These budget-friendly destinations across North America, South America, Europe, Asia, and Africa offer beautiful landscapes, unique cultures, and delicious food at affordable prices. By choosing these destinations, travellers can stretch their budget and experience more of the world.

Jake is an avid sports enthusiast with a passion for both travel and adventure. Jake seeks new cultures and experiences whilst travelling with his young family and trying keeping on budget.