The true luxury of these 10 affordable destinations isn’t just in what you spend, but in the freedom from financial stress that allows you to say “yes” to unexpected adventures, authentic local experiences, and that extra helping of street food you didn’t need but deserved.

In a world where inflation seems determined to turn your travel dreams into financial nightmares, a select group of destinations continues to offer sanctuary for the budget-conscious explorer.

While your friends post photos captioned “selling a kidney to fund day 3 days in Switzerland,” you could be uploading images of sumptuous street food feasts, breathtaking landscapes, and cultural treasures that cost less than their morning latte.

Welcome to the magical realm of budget travel in 2025, where adventure doesn’t require a trust fund and your bank account might return from vacation with you.

Budget Calculation Breakdown

These daily budget figures represent the typical costs a budget-conscious traveller might expect to spend each day. The calculations include-

1. Basic but comfortable accommodations (guesthouses, hostels, or budget hotels)
2. Three meals, including some street food and local restaurants
3. Public transportation within the country
4. Entrance fees to key attractions

International flights to reach these destinations are not included—consider those your separate investment in affordable adventure.

1. Laos – Average Daily Budget: $15

Leading our parade of affordability is Laos, the landlocked Southeast Asian nation where $15 daily buys a travel experience rich in culture and natural beauty. This Buddhist country offers some of Asia’s most pristine landscapes at prices that seem like they’ve time-traveled from the 1990s.

In Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage site, comfortable guesthouses can be found for $5-7 per night, while a bowl of traditional khao soi noodles costs barely $1.50. The country’s transportation network, though sometimes slow, remains incredibly affordable.

What makes Laos so affordable is its still-developing tourism infrastructure combined with a predominantly rural economy.

The Laotian kip’s relatively weak position against major currencies further stretches the traveller’s budget, creating a paradise for those seeking authentic experiences without financial strain.

2. Kazakhstan – Average Daily Budget: $19

The world’s 9th-largest country offers an astonishing array of experiences for just $19 daily. Kazakhstan’s combination of vast steppes, soaring mountains, and modern cities presents a diverse adventure playground at prices that seem disconnected from global inflation.

In Almaty, the country’s cultural capital, hostels and budget hotels start around $8-10 per night, while hearty meals of beshbarmak (national dish of meat and noodles) or plov (rice pilaf) cost $2-4 at local eateries. Public transportation remains a particular bargain!

Kazakhstan’s affordability stems from its resource-rich economy that hasn’t yet translated into tourism price inflation, plus significant government investment in infrastructure without corresponding tax burdens on visitors.

3. Rwanda – Average Daily Budget: $21

Known as “The Land of a Thousand Hills,” Rwanda offers remarkable experiences for $21 daily. This East African nation has transformed itself into one of the continent’s safest and cleanest destinations while maintaining budget-friendly pricing for everyday travellers.

Basic but clean accommodations in the capital, Kigali, start around $10 nightly, while local restaurants serve substantial plates of grilled meats, beans, and plantains for $2-4.

The country’s excellent public transportation system includes motorcycle taxis and an extensive bus network connecting major attractions for minimal cost.

Rwanda’s affordability comes with some health considerations—travellers should take precautions against mosquito-borne diseases—but the country’s remarkable development story includes universal healthcare access that benefits visitors through clean conditions and improved sanitation nationwide.

4. Ghana – Average Daily Budget: $22

West Africa’s stable democratic star offers cultural richness and Atlantic coastlines for just $22 daily. Ghana combines historical significance as the first sub-Saharan African country to gain independence.

In Accra, the energetic capital, budget accommodations start around $8-12 nightly, while street food staples like jollof rice, waakye (rice and beans), and kelewele (spiced plantains) cost $1-3 per portion.

The country’s tro-tro minibus network connects towns and attractions for minimal fares, while entrance to historical sites like Cape Coast Castle typically costs $5-10.

Ghana’s affordability comes with tropical considerations—mosquito protection is essential—but the country’s relatively developed infrastructure and political stability create a comfortable environment for budget travellers.

5. Mongolia – Average Daily Budget: $24

The land of Genghis Khan and endless steppes offers nomadic adventures for $24 daily. Mongolia, with the world’s lowest population density, provides genuine wilderness experiences at prices that defy global tourism trends.

In Ulaanbaatar, the capital where nearly half the population lives, hostels and guesthouses start around $8-10 nightly, while meals of buuz (steamed dumplings) or khorkhog (traditional barbecue) cost $3-5 at local establishments.

Mongolia’s extreme seasonality contributes to its affordability—summer visitors benefit from perfect conditions, while brave winter travellers encounter even lower prices during the -40°F cold season.

The country’s nascent tourism industry means authentic experiences haven’t yet been commodified and priced accordingly, creating exceptional value for adventurous travellers.

6. Armenia – Average Daily Budget: $26

This Caucasus nation packs extraordinary cultural heritage and dramatic landscapes into a country smaller than Maryland, all accessible for $26 daily. Armenia’s 3,000 years of history include early Christian heritage, Soviet-era remnants, and distinctive cuisine that rivals more expensive European destinations.

In Yerevan, the pink-stone capital, budget accommodations start around $10-15 nightly, while restaurant meals featuring local specialities like khorovats (barbecue) or dolma (stuffed vegetables) cost $4-7. The country’s compact size makes transportation affordable!

Armenia’s economic positioning between Europe and Asia creates a sweet spot for travellers—European-influenced infrastructure at Asian price points.

The country’s ongoing development following the Soviet collapse means tourism services improve annually without corresponding price increases, creating excellent value for cultural travellers.

7. Burkina Faso – Average Daily Budget: $26

Tied with Armenia at $26 daily, this West African nation offers authentic cultural experiences largely untouched by mass tourism. Burkina Faso’s rich artistic traditions, distinctive mud architecture, and vibrant festivals provide unforgettable experiences at minimal cost.

In Ouagadougou, the capital, basic guesthouses start around $8-12 nightly, while street food and local restaurants serve substantial meals for $2-4. Transportation options include shared taxis between towns ($3-8 for longer journeys) and bicycle rentals ($2-3 daily) for exploring local areas.

Burkina Faso’s affordability comes with infrastructure challenges that require additional planning but reward flexible travellers with genuine connections.

While security considerations exist in certain border regions, most tourist areas remain accessible and affordable due to the country’s position outside mainstream tourism circuits.

8. Georgia – Average Daily Budget: $28

Not the American state but the Caucasian country, Georgia, offers a Mediterranean climate, breathtaking mountains, and 8,000 years of winemaking tradition for $28 daily.

In Tbilisi, the charismatic capital, hostels and guesthouses start around $10-15 nightly, while traditional restaurants serve khachapuri (cheese bread), khinkali (dumplings), and other local specialities for $5-8 per feast-like meal.

The country’s modern transportation network includes a metro system and marshrutkas connecting major destinations for $3-8.

Georgia’s affordability stems from its strategic positioning outside the Eurozone while maintaining European standards.

9. Mali – Average Daily Budget: $29

This West African nation offers access to legendary destinations like Timbuktu and the Niger River for $29 daily. Mali’s combination of ancient civilisations, distinctive mud architecture, and vibrant musical traditions creates extraordinary cultural experiences on a minimal budget.

In Bamako, the riverside capital, basic accommodations start around $10-15 nightly, while local restaurants serve dishes like tigadegena (peanut stew) or capitaine (Nile perch) for $3-5. Transportation includes shared taxis ($2-5 for city journeys) and regional buses connecting major destinations like Mopti and Ségou.

Mali’s position outside mainstream tourism circuits contributes to its affordability, though travellers should note that security considerations restrict access to certain regions.

10. Burma (Myanmar) – Average Daily Budget: $34

Rounding out our list at $34 daily is Burma, where ancient temples, floating gardens, and traditional villages create unforgettable experiences without breaking the bank. This Southeast Asian nation offers cultural riches comparable to Thailand at a fraction of the cost.

In Yangon, the former capital, budget accommodations start around $15-20 nightly, while traditional teahouses serve mohinga (fish noodle soup) and other local specialities for $1-3. Transportation options include the circular train around Yangon and overnight buses connecting major destinations for $10-15.

Burma’s complex political situation has slowed tourism development, creating an unusual situation where infrastructure sometimes lags while prices remain exceptionally low.

Bottom Line

As your flight touches down back home after exploring these budget-friendly destinations, you might notice something unusual—your credit card isn’t sobbing in the corner of your wallet.

Instead of vacation debt that requires a payment plan with more instalments than your country has states, you return with memories, photos, and possibly even some unspent currency.

The true luxury of these affordable destinations isn’t just in what you spend, but in the freedom from financial stress that allows you to say “yes” to unexpected adventures, authentic local experiences, and that extra helping of street food you didn’t need but deserved.

After all, the best souvenir isn’t the trinket that collects dust on your shelf—it’s returning home with stories that didn’t cost your financial future to collect.

Here’s when to plan a trip for fewer crowds, lower prices, and good weather.

When you think of an Italian vacation, what comes to mind? Perhaps you picture Rome’s historic attractions, Tuscany’s idyllic vineyards, or Milan’s fancy hotels and shopping. No matter what part of Italy you want to experience, though, you’ll need to know the best times to visit. Spring and fall are generally regarded as the sweet spots for fewer crowds, better weather, and shoulder season deals, but each season has benefits and drawbacks. While some regions have their own peak and off-seasons, here’s a general breakdown of the tourism calendar:

• High Season: May to September
• Shoulder Seasons: March to April and October to November
• Low Season: December to February

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best (and worst) times to visit Italy, covering all the angles from climate to crowds.

Best Times to Visit Overall

Summer in Italy is the stuff that dreams are made of, but it’s also when temperatures, crowds, and prices are highest, especially in popular spots like Rome. For a “best of all worlds” trip, mid-to-late spring (April and May) or early-to-mid fall (late September through October) are ideal, with pleasant weather, lower prices and foot traffic, shorter lines at top attractions, and more availability at hotels. If you do plan to visit in summer, book accommodations and activities well in advance. The best time to visit also varies by region, and some visitors may want to plan a trip around specific festivals, like Venice’s legendary Carnival (usually in late February and early March), or heading to wine country for the fall harvest.

Best Times to Visit for Smaller Crowds

Not long ago, Italy’s busy season only lasted around three months from June to August, with low or moderate traffic for most of the year. But now, it’s become such an in-demand destination that its high season stretches all the way from May to September.

Because of this, winter is the best time to avoid crowds. Many visitors to Italy are seeking a warm, sunny Mediterranean vacation, and the country’s winter climate—with temperatures in the 40s and 50s in the south and snowy conditions in the north—isn’t conducive to those plans. Unless you’re headed to a Dolomites ski town like Cortina D’Ampezzo, a winter trip to Italy will likely mean uncrowded hotels and piazzas with plenty of elbow room.

If you want to avoid the winter weather and don’t mind some crowds, spring and fall are ideal times to visit as well, especially for popular destinations like Rome and Florence. During these shoulder seasons, museums and historic sites usually have shorter lines and more availability than in the summer.

Best Times to Visit for Good Weather

“Good weather” generally refers to bountiful sunshine and balmy temperatures, which Italy delivers in spades during the warmer months. But Europe’s evolving climate is having an impact on Italian summers. Certainly, sun-seekers will still find plenty to enjoy, with warm, largely rain-free weather, but soaring temperatures can make July and August uncomfortable in some regions. Temperatures above 100 degrees are increasingly frequent in southern cities like Rome and Naples, so heat-sensitive travelers may want to avoid the peak of summer in these areas.

For fair weather and sun-bathed beaches without sky-high heat indices, Italy’s best seasons are late spring and early fall. Months like May and September offer temperatures in the 70s and 80s throughout much of the country’s south, making conditions ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and taking walking tours through historic towns and cities.

In northern Italy, conditions typically remain pleasant for the duration of the summer, particularly if you’re near water or at a high elevation. A getaway to Venice or Lake Como, for instance, can see temperatures in the 60s and 70s, even during June, July, and August.

Best Times to Visit for Lower Prices

Prices in Italy tend to move in tandem with the seasons. When there are lots of visitors, prices are high, and when tourist numbers taper off, so do the costs of airfare and accommodations. If you hope to score a deal on flights or hotel rooms, aim for the quieter period between October and April. This is especially true in popular cities like Rome and Florence. While these urban areas can be pricey and packed at any time, things do slow down in winter.

Of course, there are other ways to save money on your Italian vacation besides just aiming for the off-season. Keep an eye out for flight deals, or check out cruise packages that can help you avoid expensive hotels and flights. Finally, consider traveling off the beaten path to the small towns, quaint villages, or overlooked regions and areas like Molise that most tourists skip—even during busy periods, these can make for affordable vacations.

Best Times to Visit by Region

Best Times to Visit the Italian Coast

Spring, summer, and autumn are often heralded as the best times to head to the beach in Italy. But late spring and summer can be especially crowded as schools let out for summer vacation and Italians take time off in August. Umbrella and beach chair rental prices are exorbitant, and the beaches, especially along the Amalfi Coast and in Cinque Terre, can get congested and noisy. Look instead to lesser-known coastal destinations like the island of Elba or smaller villages near the sea, like Terlizzi in Puglia, for access to quieter beaches with warm waters.

Best Times to Visit Italy’s Wine Country

Early spring and early fall can be ideal times to visit Italy if you hope to explore wine regions like Tuscany. The grape harvest occurs each September and October (exact dates vary from year to year), so this can be a fun time for wine lovers, especially with harvest festivals like Tuscany’s Expo Chianti Classico.

In the spring, the rolling hills are bright green, and many festivals celebrating seasonal foods take place throughout the region, like the Artichoke Festival in the town of Chiusure near Siena, or Terricciola’s Strawberry Festival. Just be aware that the towns can get crowded the week before Easter when religious parades and celebrations take over.

Best Times to Visit the Dolomites

If you dream of seeing the stunning Dolomites in northeastern Italy, we have good news. The destination is worth visiting year-round, with plenty of things to do. Hit the ski slopes in winter, tour historic castles, or spend summer hiking and taking in the mountain views on soaring cable car rides. However, many of the hotels and resorts in the Dolomites close during the spring and fall shoulder seasons, so prepare in advance if you plan to visit during those months.

Worst Times to Visit

Italy is a beautiful destination year-round, but if you want to avoid packed tour buses, long museum lines, and extreme heat, you probably don’t want to plan a summer getaway to Rome, Venice, or Florence. Venice hosts one of the best Carnival festivals in the world, but the celebration—typically in late February and early March—also brings premium-priced hotels and swarms of mask-wearing revelers.

Tuscany can also be tricky for solitude-seeking travelers, given its mass popularity. Cities like Siena and medieval hilltop towns like San Gimignano can be full of tourists in the summer and autumn, so try planning your trip for the winter or spring to see slightly smaller crowds.

No matter where you’re going, be sure to take note of any major local holidays planned during the dates of your visit. For example, Christmas is a beautiful time to explore Italy thanks to charming holiday markets and festive decor, but some shops and attractions will be closed or have restricted hours. Easter pilgrimages, meanwhile, are beloved among Catholic travelers wanting to see the Vatican—but their popularity also means that prices will be higher and crowds larger during Holy Week.

Many businesses shut down for vacation around the Italian holiday of Ferragosto, celebrated on August 15. Italians tend to take their own vacations during August as well, so you’ll need to be flexible if you plan to travel then, as businesses can be closed.

On every trip, I’ve found Slovenians to be highly welcoming and proud of their country, particularly of Slovenia’s commitment to the environment and sustainability. English is widely spoken and you’re unlikely to have any problems hitting the ground running.

That said, a little local knowledge can help grease the wheels and make a trip to this beautiful country more rewarding and pleasurable. Here are some ideas and tips for how to prepare before you get there.

1. Book hotels and popular restaurants well in advance

By now, word has traveled far and wide about Slovenia’s immense physical beauty and its emerging rep as a high-end foodie destination. That means it’s no longer possible simply to turn up and expect to find accommodation bargains or tables at top restaurants. Ljubljana is popular year-round, so start your room hunt the moment you decide to visit. The same goes for Lake Bled and Lake Bohinj and the towns and resorts along the country’s Adriatic coastline. These all can get full to bursting in high season (July and August).

Top Slovenian chefs like Ana Roš, and her Michelin-starred restaurant Hiša Franko in Kobarid, have got gourmands around the world salivating at the very prospect of visiting the country. Book any restaurant with a whiff of foodie cred at least a month in advance.

2. Tack on an extra couple of days to your trip

Many travelers, regrettably, allocate just a long weekend or perhaps a week at most here. That may be enough time to get a sense of Ljubljana and possibly make a side trip to Lake Bled or the Adriatic coast, but it’s not enough for taking in all the sights Slovenia has to offer. The country may be small, but it packs in tremendous geographic diversity. After you’ve hit the main highlights, consider at minimum visiting the Soča Valley, the Goriška Brda wine communities, and the spectacular caves and landscapes of the Karst Region.

And certainly don’t overlook the east of the country, around cities like Maribor and Ptuj, which sees far fewer visitors than the Alpine and coastal regions of the west. In interacting with many, many travelers over the years, I’ve never once heard a visitor on returning home say they wished they’d planned to spend fewer days here.

3. Call ahead when visiting wineries

A visit to a Slovenian winery, with a chance to meet the winemakers and sample the grape, is a highlight of any visit to the country. Prime tasting areas include Goriška Brda, Metlika, Brežice, Maribor, and many others. That said, resist the temptation simply to pull up at a winery gate and expect a tasting (as you might in other countries). It’s better to phone in advance or book a tasting over the winery website.

4. Take advantage of discount cards

Travelers are often reluctant to invest in city tourism cards out of skepticism for how much money they’ll actually save. In Slovenia, that’s a mistake, as these cards can represent good value. The Ljubljana Card, sold at tourist information centers, includes free entry to many museums as well as unlimited travel on city buses, a free funicular to Ljubljana Castle, and bus transfer to Ljubljana Airport.

Additionally, students and people over 65 often qualify for discounted admission at museums and other attractions. When traveling with kids, look out for special “family” admission prices for up to two adults and two children.

5. Learn some Slovenian phrases

Slovenians are polyglots. In addition to English, many people speak German and Italian. However, it doesn’t hurt at all (and may even open some doors) if you can muster a few common phrases in Slovenian. Start off with dober dan, meaning “good day.” Prosim means “please,” and hvala is the way to say ”thank you.”

6. Get chatting with locals

Many Slovenians can be reserved in their daily interactions, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t friendly. Feel free to say hello to or ask questions of anyone you might meet. Most people will happily engage and pass along helpful information. Making contact goes beyond merely saying hi; it’s a great way to learn about the country. Don’t be surprised if a casual greeting leads to a longer chat over beer, coffee or schnapps. It’s all part of the culture.

7. Pack clothes for the outdoors

Slovenians enjoy getting out into the fresh air. Even if you’re just planning a city break in Ljubljana, you never know when you might get tempted by or pulled out on a hike. That means it’s best to bring along comfortable walking shoes (or boots if you’re planning on spending time in the higher elevations) as well as rain gear or a windbreaker (or whatever might be appropriate for the season). That said, don’t worry about packing too many fancy clothes. Slovenians aren’t overly dogmatic about fashion. When in doubt, go smart casual; even the most famous restaurants in the country keep it pretty chill.

8. Walk or cycle when you can

Slovenians love their cars, but wherever possible they often prefer to walk, hike or bike (rather than simply jump behind the wheel). It helps that well-marked walking and cycling trails crisscross just about every city, town and region in the land. Moving around on your own power isn’t just a good way to keep fit, it’s often faster and more convenient than waiting for public transportation. Ljubljana is a prime cycling territory, but pedestrians need to watch out so that they don’t accidently walk into a designated cycling lane. That’s sure to earn a shrill bicycle bell and, potentially, a stiff word or two.

9. Be aware of ticks in open areas

Like much of Central Europe, Slovenia’s forests and grasslands are filled with ticks. On hikes or treks, use repellents and cover up exposed skin. Always check your legs and arms after any prolonged hike or camping in the open air. Ticks can carry two serious diseases: tick-borne encephalitis and Lyme disease. The latter can sometimes be treated with antibiotics; the former is rarer but can only be avoided by prior vaccination. Mosquitoes can also be an annoyance around lakes and ponds in warmer months. Bring a good mosquito repellent just in case.

10. Drive with caution in winter

Winters often bring treacherous ice and snow to Slovenian roadways, particularly in higher-elevation areas. Indeed, from November to April, many roads may be closed or impassable. These include the country’s highest alpine circuit, the 1611m (5285ft) Vršič Pass, which typically shuts down in late October and reopens only in late April. The Traffic Information Center website has updated information on nationwide road hazards, closures and weather delays.

11. Know your limits before hitting the trails

Sadly, every tourist season brings news of a tragic accident, where someone misjudges the risks and takes unnecessary chances. While some Slovenian trekking routes are well-trodden – the country has more than 9000km (5590 miles) of trails – it’s very easy to get off the beaten path, particularly at higher elevations.

It goes without saying (but it’s worth repeating): always make sure you’re carrying the right equipment and be sure to seek local guidance before setting out. Consider hiring a local guide if in doubt. Let people know where you’re going and be mindful of changing weather conditions. If you have more-ambitious plans to tackle the multiple via ferrata routes (trails with permanent cables and ladders), bring along your own gear, like harnesses, lanyards, gloves and helmets. In any emergency on the trails, contact the Mountain Rescue Association of Slovenia (GRZS) by dialing 112.

Sometimes the joys of traveling can come with unpleasant side effects—namely, stomach issues. Bloating, indigestion, constipation, and diarrhea are all common travel complaints.

“Traveling in general can just naturally disrupt GI function,” says registered dietitian Ethan Balk, clinical associate professor of nutrition at NYU and director of the Masters’ Programs in Nutrition and Dietetics.

Changes in routine and nutrition are the main factors that lead to GI distress while traveling, says Balk. Sleep disruption, not drinking enough water, and eating less nutritious and lower fiber meals—especially more ultra-processed meals and snacks—can all contribute to an unbalanced gut, Balk says.

“Especially if you’re traveling in the United States, you’re more likely to eat more processed foods that are going to have less fiber, that are rich in salt and fat and sugar,” Balk says. “Those three nutrients sort of introduce a party to our intestine tract that can disrupt digestion.”

Below, Balk provides tips to keep your gut healthy and happy wherever you go.

Stay hydrated

Balk recommends bringing a reusable water bottle to fill in the airport—once you’re through security—and before the plane ride. Drinking enough water is especially important to help prevent and treat constipation while traveling, he says.

Balk also adds that despite the social media claims, you likely don’t need to bring electrolyte packets with you.

“Most people don’t need a whole lot of electrolyte replacement, it’s really just making sure you’re getting enough water,” he explains.

Wash your hands frequently

Be wary of traveler’s diarrhea, which is caused by eating or drinking contaminated food or water, or not washing dirty hands before eating or touching your face, cautions Balk. He advises keeping your hands away from your mouth and face, and washing your hands frequently—maybe more so than you would,” he says.

Drinking plenty of water is also important should you end up with a case of traveler’s diarrhea, as it can quickly dehydrate you. Additionally, sleep is key, as that will help keep your immune system strong.

“If you’re tired and dehydrated and then you get a virus, that’s just the perfect storm,” Balk says.

Bring over-the-counter meds

If you’re prone to GI issues, Balk recommends keeping some over-the-counter stomach medications on hand should you need them. That includes drugs like antidiarrheals (like Imodium), Pepto Bismol, antacids, and even probiotics.

“[Over-the-counter medications] can work wonders,” he says.

Balk recommends getting a probiotic that has at least 10 billion strains of bacteria and taking it a few days leading up to travel—but speak with your doctor before beginning any new supplement or medication.

Enjoy your trip—but keep it balanced

Enjoy your vacation and the delicious food you find, but try to eat as balanced as you can. That means incorporating fiber into meals (think: whole grains, fruits, and vegetables) and going easy on foods high in fat, salt, and sugar.

Skip social media hacks

While social media has plenty of travel hacks—like bringing along greens powders, dandelion tea, colostrum, and even chia seed water, Balk is skeptical that they will help your gut issues.

“If it seems kind of out of left field and there’s an expensive price tag attached to it, it’s probably not going to do much,” he tells Fortune.

Move your body

“Don’t discount the effectiveness of physical activity,” Balk says. Walking around the airport and getting up and stretching on the plane are especially important. That can help counteract the issues that arise from keeping your body—and your GI tract—stagnant, like bloating and constipation.

“If you’re moving then things are moving,” Balk says.