Incredible Destinations for Less: 14 of the Cheapest Places to Travel in 2018
Greece
A troublesome economy gives travelers two very good reasons to visit Greece. Firstly, it means Greece is one of the cheapest vacation destinations in the world. Secondly, locals could use tourists’ support.
When you get there and fall hard for the charm of small eateries run by a grandmother, and hotels draped in brightly colored flowers, you’ll be happy to trade in large resorts for these much more charming options. Eating and staying locally is the best way to make sure your money is going to the right place, while also getting a better deal and a more enriching experience.
While some of the more touristy areas such as Athens and Santorini remain on the higher end of the budget ladder, many of Greece’s less popular islands boast even more beautiful views than those of its tourist traps. Consider exploring some of its smaller, lesser-known islands for a private, budget-friendly vacation you’ll be sure to remember.
Portugal
If you have a hankering to explore Western Europe, but without the cost, you can easily plan an affordable vacation to Portugal. Portugal offers all the beauty and sunshine of Spain for more affordable prices. With similar food and culture, Portugal is a means by which travelers can experience the best of both worlds, while indulging in Portugal’s stunning sights and scenery.
There is also a deep history here which not only makes for fascinating walking tours and museum visits, but gives the cities of Porto and Lisbon the old world glamour of places like Paris. Portugal’s lengthy coastline is another huge draw. The Algarve in the south is a fairly resort-ridden spot, but further up the coast you’ll find plenty of hidden beaches and quiet towns to escape.
A budget of around $70 USD a day per person will be enough for nights in simple hotels, meals in local restaurants, and a glass of port or two.
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Bolivia
Hidden away right in the middle of the continent, Bolivia is one of the cheapest and most exciting destinations in South America. It would be an oversight to ignore Bolivia as a holiday destination. The country is teeming with traditional South American culture, food and music for a much more affordable price than in neighboring Brazil or Argentina.
La Paz is a high altitude and fast paced city you’ll find difficult to leave. Despite not having a coastline, you’ll also find some of the greatest natural wonders on the continent in Bolivia. No trip to South America is complete without a visit to the Salar de Uyuni, the magical salt flats in the south.
In the north there is the vast expanse of the Amazon jungle, where you could disappear for days and spend hours exploring rivers in canoes or basking on the deck of your wilderness lodge while watching capuchin monkeys dance through the trees.
Budget around $50-$80 USD a day for a comfortable trip that covers all the main attractions.
