Traveling doesn’t have to be very costly. In 2024, there are plenty of affordable destinations around the world that promise great experiences without carrying expensive price tags. Here is a top ten selection for those who dream about traveling around the world on a budget. Each of them will make your tour a unique adventure, full of great cultural traditions and breathtaking sceneries.

1. Portugal

Nowadays, Portugal is one of the most attractive countries to visit for budget travelers, due to low-cost accommodations and inexpensive dining options. Its landscapes are also breathtakingly beautiful. Lisbon is proud of its charismatic neighborhoods, historic tram rides, and street art. No doubts, the Belém Tower is famous, while the Alfama area is highly picturesque. In turn, the city of Porto can provide less noisy housing and boasts famous port wine cellars and colorful Ribeira district along the Douro River. The Algarve boasts some of the prettiest beaches, with dramatic cliffs, sunbathing, hiking, and charming fishing villages to explore-all without the crowds characteristic of more touristy spots.

2. Mexico

Mexico remains a great, affordable destination thanks to its many diverse regions and attractions, including cultural cities such as Oaxaca and Guanajuato. You can also experience authentic local food in street stalls and family-run eateries, and for just a few dollars a meal. Meanwhile, beach towns like Tulum and Puerto Escondido offer affordable accommodations and delicious street food-perfect for people who want to soak up the sun without breaking the bank. The good exchange rate you get is spending your money a little more extravagantly than usual so that you can enjoy excursions to the ancient ruins at Chichen Itza or explore the natural beauty of a cenote.

3. Vietnam

Vietnam bursts with great landscapes, vibrant cities, and delicious food at super reasonable costs. From the bustling streets of Hanoi, where a bowl of pho can be enjoyed for under US$2, to the breathtaking landscape of Ha Long Bay and the historic town of Hoi An, there is no doubt that great adventures can be had on low cost. Take advantage of the affordable public transport system, or the rent of a motorbike as an adventure in itself. Further, the local markets should not be missed, where everything, from handicrafts to fresh vegetables, is sold to give one a taste of the daily life of the Vietnamese people.

4. Greece

Greece, while to some degree expensive in certain parts, does have islands like Naxos and Paros that offer more inexpensive accommodations and dining options. The best time to go, if you are trying to save money, would be during the shoulder season: from May to June and September to October. You’ll still get to spend your days on beautiful beaches and see historical sites sans the hordes. Visit the ancient ruins of Delphi, try some of the local foods-moussaka-while you’re taking in the breathtaking sunset views with fewer crowds. Places like Thessaloniki give you an affordable city break with rich history and a great food scene, ideal for soaking into Greek culture.

5. Thailand

Thailand is dirt cheap and has always been a favorite for budget travelers. Explore the bustling markets of Bangkok, which are full of delicious street food and cheap souvenirs. Relax on the beautiful beaches of Koh Samui or Phuket, with numerous options of inexpensive bungalows and guesthouses. Chiang Mai, in mountainous northern Thailand, is another laid-back retreat with some truly magnificent temples and a deep sense of cultural tradition-the perfect place for cooking classes and local festivals. Getting from place to place is easy and not too expensive, with buses and trains connecting all the main towns.

6. Romania

Romania is a new budget travel destination in Europe; it offers a landscape replete with beautiful castles, medieval towns, and breathtaking scenery. The capital city, Bucharest, has cheaper accommodations, as well as a buzzing nightlife scene. The quaint town of Sibiu is culturally rich. Transylvania is known for its abundant castles, from where Bran Castle was chosen to be firmly associated with Dracula. Nature lovers can hike and enjoy the breathtaking Carpathian Mountains. In addition, getting around Romania is cheap as public transportation is not too expensive.

7. Colombia

Colombia is becoming increasingly popular because it offers all types of landscapes and culture in abundance, all at a fraction of the cost compared to other touristy areas. Come to Medellín for its vibrant art scene, where public murals and the flower festival are at their best. Enjoy a leisurely walk on the historic streets of Cartagena, with colorful colonial architecture lining up the cobblestone streets. With guided tours through lush plantations, nature lovers will find the Coffee Triangle very appealing, with an explanation of coffee processing. Meanwhile, budget accommodations and cheap eats won’t have you breaking the bank to experience it.

8. Indonesia

Indonesia, particularly Bali, is an absolute fit for a traveler in search of adventure and relaxation within the budget. From inexpensive villas to beautiful beaches and street delicacies, one may indulge in a tropical retreat without breaking their wallet. In Bali, visit Ubud, a culturally superior town that serves as an epicenter of rice terraces, art galleries, and yoga retreats. Relax on Seminyak’s golden beaches or take in breathtaking scenery and snorkeling opportunities on the island of Nusa Penida. There is, of course, way more to Indonesia than just Bali-from dragons in Komodo Islands to lush landscapes in Sumatra-one can visit all this on a budget.

9. Hungary

Rich history and stunning architecture burst out of Budapest, not to mention an amazingly lively cultural scene-all at very affordable costs. It means visiting the most famous places of interest: the Buda Castle, the Bastion of Fishermen, and taking thermal baths for your pleasure. Ruin bars in the city will surprise you with how pleasant nightlife can be, offering you a chance to have cocktails in artsy surroundings. Hungarian food is very cheap, too; huge bowls of goulash are waiting for you in every restaurant. Then, there is the great public transport making Budapest easy to get around without breaking the bank.

10. South Africa

For the adventurous and lovers of awesome sceneries, South Africa is fairly cheap and offers plenty. Take in the vibrant streets of Cape Town with the imposing Table Mountain and lovely beaches. A trip to Kruger National Park allows one to take a safari drive and view wildlife up close, and there are several budget-friendly accommodation options available. Other highlights include the Garden Route, a feast of scenic drives, picturesque towns, and hiking and whale watching-mostly very affordable.