Photo: Contiki
Craving an affordable vacation that won’t empty your pocket? (Aren’t we all?). It must be your lucky day. From affordable tropical vacations with beautiful beaches, to bucket-list adventures packed with history, this list covers the cheapest places to travel in 2025. Pack your bags, and let’s explore these budget-friendly vacation spots brimming with unforgettable experiences.
1. Thailand
Average meal cost: $3–$5
Top affordable trip: Thai Island Hopper West
Thailand is the ultimate destination for affordable vacations, especially if island hopping is your vibe. From sailing to Koh Phi Phi for vibrant nightlife and beaches to Koh Tao for diving adventures, to visiting an elephant sanctuary in Phuket. There’s no end to the grand adventures that Thailand offers for a price that ain’t too grand. Not to mention, the food at the night markets is super affordable (and delicious) too.
Image source:Contiki
2. The Philippines
Average meal cost: $3–$6
Top affordable trip: Philippines Island Hopping West
Turquoise waters. Tranquil islands. Totally-splendid adventures. The Philippines is a treasure trove for island hoppers. Jump between Palawan’s limestone cliffs, Cebu’s white-sand beaches, Bohol’s cool countryside scenery and go snorkelling everywhere. It’s affordable. It’s paradise. It deserves a spot on your list of top affordable vacations.
3. Albania
Average meal cost: $5–$8
Top affordable trip: Albania Beaches & Peaks
Europe has a hidden gem. And it’s pocket-friendly too. Say hello to Albania – a Mediterranean beauty without the hefty price tag. Think: cable car rides, historical architecture, show-stopping beaches, vineyard dinners, cultural gems, panoramic hiking – it’s got everything you’d ever want from an affordable vacation.
Image source:Contiki
4. Portugal
Average meal cost: $10–$15
Top affordable trip: Portugal City & Surf
Cheap vacation? In sun-kissed Europe? With charming cities and golden beaches? And port wine and perfect food? It has to be in picture-perfect Portugal. It might not be the cheapest place to travel to in Europe, but it sure is the place where you get to experience it all (beaches, history, food and wine) for a price that’s slightly more affordable than France or Italy.
5. Peru
Average meal cost: ~$5–$10
Top affordable trip: Peru: Lima to Huaraz
Peru is an adventurer’s dream, and a road trip with Contiki makes it as affordable as a Pisco Sour. From hiking to Machu Picchu, to sailing across Lake Titicaca, seeing 5,000-year-old Chavin architecture, checking out the unbelievable views from Laguna 69, Peru gives you all the goodness of a South American adventure at a price that’s affordable.
Image source:Contiki
6. Morocco
Average meal cost: ~$3–$6
Top affordable trip: Culture & Coastlines in Morocco
From Marrakesh’s bustling souks to the blue streets of Chefchaouen, Morocco is rich in culture, colour and affordable experiences. Whether you’re riding a camel in the Sahara, sipping mint tea, or exploring the bazaars for souvenirs, there’s plenty you can do without spending loads of money. Plus, you get access to deserts, mountains and beaches – all in one single location. Pretty cool.
7. India
Average meal cost: $2–$4
Top affordable trip: Eternal India Express
India is a kaleidoscope of experiences, packed with everything from buzzing streets to tranquil beaches. So whether you’re visiting Jaipur’s historic palaces (feeling like royalty on a shoestring budget? Yes please!), exploring Varanasi’s spiritual ghats, or unwinding at a beach shack in Goa. It’s no secret that your ‘rupee’ can get you far here.
Image source:Contiki
8. Croatia
Average meal cost: $10–$12
Top affordable trip: Croatia Island Sail
Croatia, oh, Croatia. Think crystal-clear Adriatic waters, medieval towns, and wallet-friendly seafood. From exploring Dubrovnik’s Old Town, sailing through the Dalmatian Islands, chilling on Hvar’s beaches and even sample the finest wine by the sea, if you’re looking for the typical beach life and sailing experience that everyone loves in Europe, but wanna do it on a budget, Croatia is your best bet.
9. Türkiye
Average meal cost: ~$5–$8
Top affordable trip: Turkish Sailing
Türkiye is where East meets West, ancient ruins meet bustling bazaars, Europe’s beauty meets Asia’s culture. From checking out Istanbul’s iconic Hagia Sophia to Cappadocia’s hot air balloon views, or the Turquoise Coast’s beautiful beaches, it all comes at a price that won’t make a hole in your pocket. Also, Turkish tea is almost always free with a meal. What’s not to love?
Image source:Contiki
10. Czech Republic
Average meal cost: ~$6–$10
Top affordable trip: Rome to London Quest
Home to stunning castles, cobbled streets, and world-class beer, the Czech Republic (also known as Czechia) is a dream for affordable European vacations. Whether you’re checking out castles, taking a river cruise, munching on a Trdelník or hitting up the clubs, there’s something here for everyone who loves a good affordable vacation.
11. Indonesia
Average meal cost: ~$3–$6
Top affordable trip: Bali Island Hopping
Bali. Gili islands. Flores. Komodo Island. There’s no end to the excitement that Indonesia offers to someone who loves a good affordable vacation. It’s got everything from snorkelling adventures, party vibes, yummy food, tranquil islands, cool blue waters, and even the chance to swim with Manta rays??? It’s the ultimate affordable tropical escape.
Image source:Contiki
12. Namibia
Average meal cost: ~$7–$10
Top affordable trip: Nomadic Namibia
Namibia’s dramatic landscapes might not be the first that come to mind when you think of an African adventure. But my oh my, is it worth the visit. You can explore the towering dunes of Sossusvlei (and see the Big Daddy Dune (yup) IRL). Then you’ve got the wildlife-packed Etosha National Park, and Swakopmund for a dose of adventure – all at an affordable price. How good does that sound?
Affordable vacations don’t have to mean sacrificing adventure, and these 12 destinations prove it. So, what are you waiting for? Plan your 2025 getaway now, and discover just how far your travel budget can take you!
Where is the cheapest place to go in summer?
Head to Eastern Europe or Southeast Asia! Places like Albania, Croatia, and Thailand offer beautiful scenery, great weather, and affordable prices, especially in summer. You can soak up the sun (without draining your wallet).
