Top 09 Cheapest Countries to Visit in 2024

If you’re planning your next holiday, we’ve uncovered the cheapest countries to visit throughout the world. Despite the consequences of inflation on everything from eggs to electric automobiles, there are certain locations where your dollar will work to your advantage, allowing you to take an exotic trip for less than you may anticipate.

Our rating is based on the average total daily cost you could incur after you get at your location, which includes housing, food, and the daily cost of living. We have some techniques for finding and saving money on flights to Europe.

To get you started, here are the top 10 cheapest countries to visit in 2023.

09. Greece

Greece might not be the absolute cheapest country to visit in Europe, but it definitely offers incredible value for the experiences you get, especially compared to other Western European destinations.

While the popular Greek islands like Santorini and Mykonos can be pricey during peak summer months (June-August), traveling during shoulder seasons (April-May, September-October) or even winter (November-March) can slash your accommodation and travel costs significantly. You’ll also encounter far fewer crowds, making your exploration more peaceful and authentic.

Greece boasts a wide range of accommodation options to suit any budget. From charming family-run guesthouses and hostels to campsites and vacation rentals, you can easily find comfortable and affordable stays, especially outside peak season. Hostels in Athens, for example, can be found for as low as €10 per night, while guesthouses on smaller islands might start around €30-40 per night.

Greece is overflowing with historical and cultural treasures, many of which are free or very affordable to access. Explore ancient ruins like the Acropolis in Athens or the Palace of Knossos in Crete for under €20. Public museums often offer free entry on specific days, and charming coastal towns like Nafplio and Rhodes have picturesque old towns to wander through for free.

08. Portugal

Portugal might be Western Europe’s hidden gem when it comes to budget travel. While not the absolute cheapest, it offers incredible value compared to its pricier neighbors, with stunning scenery, rich history, and delicious food, all without breaking the bank.

Lisbon and Porto are charming, but venture outside these bustling cities and discover a treasure trove of affordability. Places like Fafe, Amarante, and Oliveira de Azeméis boast stunning landscapes, friendly locals, and a laid-back atmosphere, with accommodation starting at just €20 per night and hearty meals for under €10. Think quaint villages nestled amidst rolling hills, charming cafes lining cobbled streets, and fresh seafood caught right off the coast.

Portugal’s rich tapestry of history and culture is yours to explore without spending a fortune. Wander through the medieval streets of Óbidos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, for free, or marvel at the Jerónimos Monastery in Lisbon for just €10. Take a day trip to Sintra, a fairytale-like town perched on the hills, and explore its Pena National Palace for under €15. You’ll be transported back in time without emptying your wallet.

07. Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is known for its stunning beaches and all-inclusive resorts, and while some high-end options exist, there are also plenty of affordable choices. Look outside Punta Cana to smaller towns like Puerto Plata or Cabarete, where all-inclusive packages can start around $100 per night. These deals often include meals, drinks, activities, and even airport transfers, making budgeting a breeze.

Skip the overpriced hotel buffets and dive into the vibrant world of Dominican street food. Local markets brim with fresh fruits, vegetables, and seafood, perfect for DIY meals or budget-friendly bites. Sample “Pescado Frito” (fried fish), “Pastelón” (a savory plantain dish), or “Concón” (fried rice and beans) for under $5. Don’t miss the local “Comedors,” small family-run restaurants offering heaping plates of Dominican home cooking for a fraction of the price of tourist traps.

06. Mexico

Mexico, the land of vibrant culture, stunning beaches, and ancient ruins, might surprise you with its affordability. While luxurious options exist, there’s a whole world of budget-friendly experiences waiting to be discovered.

Cancun might be a magnet for spring breakers, but venture beyond the tourist traps and discover a wealth of affordable gems. Oaxaca, a UNESCO World Heritage City, boasts charming colonial architecture, delicious street food like tlayudas (giant Oaxacan pizzas) for under $2, and vibrant mercados where you can score handcrafted souvenirs for a steal. In Puebla, wander through colorful streets lined with Talavera tiles, and savor mole poblano, a complex and flavorful sauce, for under $10.

Mexico’s rich tapestry of history goes beyond Chichen Itza and Teotihuacan. Explore the ancient ruins of Palenque in Chiapas for under $15, or climb the Pyramid of the Moon in Teotihuacan for just $6. In Guanajuato, a charming colonial city, wander through underground alleys called callejones for free, or catch a serenade by mariachi bands for a few pesos. Mexico’s cultural treasures are accessible and affordable, waiting to be discovered with an open mind and a curious heart.

05. Costa Rica

Skip the pricier Pacific coast towns like Tamarindo and Manuel Antonio and explore the heart of the country. Head to charming inland towns like La Fortuna, nestled near the Arenal Volcano, where budget-friendly guesthouses start around $30 and delicious “Casados” (traditional plates with rice, beans, and meat) can be found for under $5. In Monteverde, known for its cloud forests and hanging bridges, find affordable hostels for less than $20 a night and explore the lush biodiversity on free self-guided trails.

Ditch the expensive tours and embrace the local buses and shared vans. They provide a safe and affordable way to explore the country, with fares rarely exceeding $5 for longer journeys. Skip the fancy meals and indulge in the vibrant markets and “sodas” (small family-run restaurants) where you can savor authentic Costa Rican dishes like “Gallo Pinto” (rice and beans) and “Patacones” (fried plantains) for under $10. Pack your swimsuit and towel, and discover hidden waterfalls, secluded beaches, and stunning natural pools – all accessible for free and offering unforgettable experiences.

04. Hungary

While Hungary might not top the charts for cheapest countries in Europe, its affordability hides in plain sight, waiting to surprise budget-conscious travelers.

Step outside the bustling capital and discover Hungary’s hidden gems. Picturesque Szentendre, nestled on the Danube bend, boasts colorful houses and an artistic vibe, with guesthouses starting at around €20 per night and hearty goulash for under €10. In Eger, explore the majestic castle and indulge in thermal baths for less than €15, enjoying a rejuvenating experience without the luxury price tag. These charming towns offer authentic Hungarian experiences at a fraction of the cost of Budapest.

Explore the UNESCO-listed caves of Aggtelek for just €7, marvel at the Gothic architecture of Pécs for free, or wander through the historic town of Sopron, known as “Little Vienna,” for the cost of a delicious Hungarian pastry. Beyond the cities, hike the scenic trails of the Bükk Mountains or cycle through the Danube Valley, both offering breathtaking landscapes and fresh air for free.

03. Thailand

Thailand might be synonymous with stunning beaches and vibrant culture, but it’s also a surprisingly budget-friendly destination. While Bangkok offers its own brand of charm, venture beyond the capital and discover a treasure trove of affordability. Head north to Chiang Mai, a backpacker haven where cozy guesthouses start at around $10 per night, and delicious khao soi (coconut curry noodles) can be found for under $2. In the vibrant coastal town of Krabi, bungalows on idyllic beaches go for as low as $20 a night, and fresh seafood platters cost around $10. Thailand’s beauty unfolds beyond the tourist hotspots, offering affordability with every step.

Thailand’s rich cultural heritage offers awe-inspiring experiences without hefty price tags. Explore the majestic ruins of Ayutthaya for under $15, marvel at the intricate mosaics of Wat Pho in Bangkok for a few baht, or climb the iconic Wat Arun temple for breathtaking views, all for less than $5. Beyond the cultural treasures, Thailand’s pristine beaches beckon. Soak up the sun on hidden coves in Koh Lanta, where beach huts start at $10, or catch waves on the surf haven of Koh Phi Phi for under $20 per night. From ancient temples to turquoise waters, Thailand’s beauty is as affordable as it is unforgettable.

02. Indonesia

Bali, which is regularly ranked as the finest destination to visit in the world, is located in Indonesia. But this jewel of a country is more than just picturesque scenery. Indonesia is the world’s biggest island country, with over 17,000 islands and breathtaking beaches, volcanoes, rainforests, orangutan colonies, massive Komodo dragons, and immense mountain ranges. And best of all, your money will go a long way here.

Skip the pricier Bali scene and explore lesser-known islands like Lombok, where cozy bungalows on pristine beaches start at around $15 a night, and warung meals featuring nasi goreng (fried rice) or mie goreng (fried noodles) can be found for under $2. In Yogyakarta, Java’s cultural heart, discover ancient temples like Borobudur for under $10, and savor traditional dishes like soto ayam (chicken soup) for less than $5. Indonesia’s beauty unfolds beyond the usual suspects, offering breathtaking landscapes and authentic experiences on a shoestring.

Local markets brim with exotic fruits and vegetables, perfect for DIY meals or budget-friendly snacks. Explore bustling night markets, hop on colorful angkot (mini buses) for under $1, and island hop on slow ferries for around $10, connecting with the rhythm of everyday life without breaking the bank.

01. Turkey

Turkey is one of the most visited nations in the world, but it remains an underappreciated tourist destination. Turkey, which straddles Europe and Asia, is a fantastic mixing pot of civilizations, as seen by everything from architecture to gastronomy. Turkey offers a wide range of options for travelers, from mountain ranges to beach-littered beaches to the huge colorful metropolis of Istanbul. Despite the devastating earthquakes that struck the country, numerous tourist spots in the country’s west (hundreds of kilometers from the damaged areas) are open and actively inviting guests. Tourist dollars will be all too vital for the rebuilding effort.

Remember, flexibility is key. Travel during shoulder seasons, be open to trying new things, and embrace the Turkish hospitality. With a little planning and resourcefulness, Turkey will reward you with an unforgettable, budget-friendly adventure that leaves you saying “Tamam” (perfect) to your travel dreams. So pack your walking shoes, a reusable water bottle, and an open mind, and get ready to discover the wonders of Turkey on a budget that won’t leave you drained.