16 Cheap Places to Travel

With a strong U.S. dollar, there are a lot of great international travel destinations that won’t break the bank this year. We looked at costs like lodging and transportation, currency exchange rates, and visa and entry fees to determine affordable places to visit.

Whether a country is cheap will also depend on your preferred style of travel and budget. Using points and miles to save on airfare or hotels can help significantly reduce your travel costs. To make the most out of your budget, you can also leverage common money-saving tactics, such as traveling during the shoulder season and using a travel credit card that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees.

From night markets in Southeast Asia to less-traveled countries in Eastern Europe, here are some cheap places to travel in 2025.

Why we chose it: U.S. tourists don’t need a visa to go to Taiwan, where you can easily get a good meal for less than $10. It’s also cheap to get around. A bus ride in Taipei will cost you just under 50 cents, while subway rides start at 60 cents.

What to do: With cheap breakfast stalls and bustling night markets, Taiwan is a food lover’s paradise. But beyond the bubble tea and pineapple cakes, there’s so much more to explore. In Taipei, the largest city by population, you’ll find not only modern marvels like Taipei 101, a soaring skyscraper, but also national parks and hot springs right nearby. The public transportation is easy to navigate, and Taiwan’s rail network can quickly connect you across the island.

Fastest way to get there: West Coast flyers are spoiled for choice, with direct flights from Delta Air Lines and United Airlines, as well as the three major Taiwanese airlines: EVA Air (Star Alliance), China Airlines (SkyTeam) and Starlux Airlines (bookable with Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan miles). You can also fly EVA Air and China Airlines direct to Taipei from other U.S. airports, including New York-John F. Kennedy.

Why we chose it: U.S. travelers can get a visa on arrival for 500,000 Indonesian rupiah, or roughly $31, the highest visa fees for a country on this list. However, it’s worth it for the cheap food and lodging. While we wouldn’t recommend this for budget travelers, you could easily snag a night at the Four Seasons Hotel Jakarta for well under $200, making it perfect for those seeking luxury on a budget.

What to do: Indonesia comprises more than 17,000 islands, giving travelers the flexibility to tailor their trip itineraries exactly to their liking. Divers seeking to explore the pristine underwater beauty of Indonesia might head to Raja Ampat, while those looking for a spiritual retreat often flock to Ubud, a town in Bali, or Yogyakarta, the home of the world’s largest Buddhist temple, Borobudur.

Fastest way to get there: There are no nonstop flights from the U.S. to Indonesia. However, those traveling with points and miles should consider flying or connecting to airlines that are part of Oneworld (Cathay Pacific, Japan Airlines, Qatar Airways, Malaysia Airlines), SkyTeam (China Airlines, Korean Air, Saudia) or Star Alliance (Air India, All Nippon Airways, EVA Air, Singapore Airlines). Other airlines bookable with points that can get you there include Emirates and Etihad.

Why we chose it: India can be as inexpensive as you want it to be, with subway fares starting at just 11 cents per ride in Delhi. And if you’re not near public transportation — or find it difficult to navigate — ridesharing services are also an affordable option. Some of your pricier expenses might be hiring a guide to show you around, since it can be an overwhelming destination for first-time visitors. Expect to pay between $10 and $25 for a visa depending on what time of year you visit.

What to do: India is one of the most culturally and linguistically diverse countries in the world, and everywhere you go offers something distinctly original. First-timers might consider visiting the Golden Triangle, encompassing majestic sites in Delhi, Agra and Jaipur like the Taj Mahal and the Red Fort, where the Mughal emperors lived. Adventure seekers looking for the fastest and cheapest way to get around should try Uber’s motorbike service. If you’re not a daring eater, consider booking a tour guide to bring you to the best street food stalls around town.

Fastest way to get there: Star Alliance partners United and Air India both operate direct flights from the U.S., although Air India will offer the most choice for those looking to fly nonstop. Like United, American Airlines flies direct only to New Delhi.

Why we chose it: Tourists from the U.S. don’t need a visa to enter South Africa, where $1 will get you about 18.3 South African rand. While prices may not be as cheap as they are in Asia, that favorable exchange rate will help a lot in making your trip that much more affordable.

What to do: South Africa has three capital cities, but tourists are most likely to flock to Cape Town, a beautiful coastal city set against a mountainous backdrop. Nearby, take in the panoramic views from atop Table Mountain and Lion’s Head, and admire the adorable African penguins at Boulders Beach on the way to the Cape of Good Hope. To the east, enjoy the wineries of Stellenbosch, a town less than an hour outside of Cape Town. Those looking for more wildlife can head out on a safari to catch a glimpse of the Big Five: elephants, buffalo, lions, leopards and rhinoceroses.

Fastest way to get there: Both Delta and United fly direct to South Africa’s two major airports in Johannesburg and Cape Town. Delta’s nonstop flights depart from its hub in Atlanta, while United flies to Johannesburg from Newark and to Cape Town from Newark and Washington-Dulles.

Why we chose it: U.S. tourists don’t need a visa for the Philippines. It’s also easy to find hotels for under $30 a night.

What to do: Those seeking a tropical climate should head to the Philippines, an island nation with more than 7,000 islands boasting beautiful white-sand beaches and clear water for snorkeling and diving. There’s plenty to do here, whether exploring the waterfalls of Cebu or sampling street food at night markets in Manila and Davao. If you’re especially daring, go for balut, a fertilized duck egg embryo that’s a popular delicacy and packed with protein. Finish off the evening with the popular halo-halo shaved ice dessert.

Fastest way to get there: United flies direct from San Francisco to Manila, but those looking for more options might consider flying Philippines Airlines, which flies to numerous U.S. airports, including JFK. Here’s the catch: The airline is not part of an alliance, making it extremely difficult to book on points.

Why we chose it: Malaysia offers cheap food and lodging, especially if you visit night markets and the open-air mamak stalls. A night at the Hilton Garden Inn in Kuala Lumpur might cost as little as $35, while a night at the five-star Shangri-La can be had for just $110. To top it off, U.S. tourists don’t need a visa to visit Malaysia.

What to do: Malaysia is beautiful, but here, the culinary tradition really shines. Sample the delicious street food in Penang and Kuala Lumpur to your heart’s delight. Local favorites include nasi lemak, a spicy fried chicken and rice dish, and laksa noodle soup. If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, try the pungent durian fruit. Besides food, there’s plenty to explore, from climbing the 272 steps into the Batu Caves to relaxing on Langkawi’s white-sand beaches and sipping tea in the Cameron Highlands.

Fastest way to get there: There are no nonstop flights to Malaysia from the U.S. Just as with booking award travel to Indonesia, you should look into airlines in the region that are a part of an alliance to get you to Malaysia.

Why we chose it: The exchange rate is at an all-time high for U.S. travelers visiting Vietnam, but the numbers can be a bit mind-boggling. For $1, you can get 25,527 Vietnamese dong, and for around $40, you can be a millionaire. Lodging here can be as affordable as you want it to be, with several well-rated properties in Ho Chi Minh City going for less than $20 a night. For the best food prices, stay outside of touristy areas, and if you run into any Vietnamese menus, remember that Google Translate is your friend. You’ll pay $25 when applying for your e-visa to enter Vietnam.

What to do: Vietnam boasts natural beauty and historical sites, offering travelers a mix of activities to do. For a laid-back vibe, take an overnight cruise in Ha Long Bay. If you’re a history buff, explore the Cu Chi tunnels in Ho Chi Minh City, an underground network used by Viet Cong soldiers during the Vietnam War. You also won’t want to miss Da Nang, with attractions like My Khe Beach and the Dragon Bridge with its nearby Son Tra night market. After all that exploring, chow down on Vietnam’s popular street food options, with dishes like pho, banh mi, bun cha and spring rolls.

Fastest way to get there: Vietnam Airlines is the only airline that operates nonstop service between the U.S. and Vietnam. San Francisco-based flyers can fly direct to Ho Chi Minh City, the country’s most populous city, on this SkyTeam member.

Why we chose it: Hotels in Japan can be expensive, but luckily the easy availability of cheap food and convenient public transportation make up for it. Budget travelers will particularly appreciate the prevalence of convenience stores that offer inexpensive yet delicious bites, as well as shokudos, which are local family-owned restaurants. U.S. tourists can enter Japan visa-free.

What to do: Japan has something for everyone, from the busy streets of Tokyo to the picturesque bamboo forests of Kyoto. Foodies can gorge themselves on everything from sushi and ramen to yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) and onigiri (rice balls). Meanwhile, skiers can head to the slopes of Hokkaido, and those seeking a truly magical experience should time their visit to coincide with Japan’s cherry blossom season.

Fastest way to get there: Japan is a popular destination, and that’s reflected in the amount of nonstop options to the country. American, Delta and United all operate nonstop flights to Tokyo from multiple hubs, but travelers can also fly on Hawaiian Airlines, ANA, Japan Airlines and budget carrier Zipair. If you have a ton of miles and want a real treat, try to snag an international first class seat on ANA, Japan Airlines or Singapore Airlines. (Singapore Airlines operates a fifth-freedom route — where one country’s airline flies between two other countries — from L.A. to Tokyo.)

Why we chose it: Lodging in Romania is affordable, especially by European standards. You also don’t need a visa to enter Romania as a U.S. citizen; however, in the future, the European Union plans to implement a new European Travel Information and Authorisation System that will require U.S. visitors to fill out an online form and pay a fee.

What to do: When you think of Romania, the first thing that might pop into your mind is Transylvania, the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, thought to be the inspiration for Count Dracula. The region is dotted with castles, medieval towns like Brasov and forests, including Hoia-Baciu Forest, which some consider to be the most haunted forest in the world. Spooky mythology aside, Bucharest, the capital city, is home to grand palaces and churches, making it also worth a visit.

Fastest way to get there: HiSky, a Romanian budget airline, launched its route between New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport and Bucharest in June 2024, the first nonstop flight between the two countries in more than 20 years. If you’re not based in New York, consider flying with a European airline that’s part of an alliance.

Why we chose it: Like Romania, U.S. travelers don’t need a visa to visit Hungary but will be impacted once the ETIAS launches. While prices have gone up in Hungary, it’s still a relatively affordable destination for Europe, where you can get great deals on accommodations.

What to do: Budapest is Hungary’s capital city, known for its eclectic and striking architectural style, its relaxing thermal baths and its status as one of Hollywood’s favorite filming locations. The city is split by the Danube, a river that snakes its way through the European continent. Make the most out of your trip by heading out of the city to the picturesque Lake Balaton, Central Europe’s largest lake. Around here, you’ll find wineries, hiking trails and the stunning Festetics Palace.

Fastest way to get there: There are no nonstop flights to Hungary from the U.S. If you’re looking to book with points, consider flying or connecting to European airlines that are part of Oneworld (British Airways, Finnair, Iberia), SkyTeam (Air France, KLM) or Star Alliance (Austrian, Brussels, LOT, Lufthansa, Swiss).

Why we chose it: In Azerbaijan, $1 will get you 1.7 Azerbaijani manat, a fixed exchange rate. (Compare that to 2015, when $1 was equivalent to 0.78 manat.) Here, ride-hailing services like Uber or Bolt make it easy to get around for cheap. U.S. citizens can apply for an e-visa, which costs $20.

What to do: Nicknamed “the land of fire,” Azerbaijan is home to oil and natural gas deposits that fuel the country’s continuously burning fires, the most well known being Yanar Dag. Flanked by the Caspian Sea and the Caucasus Mountains, Azerbaijan has plenty to offer for travelers, be it in Baku, from the defensive walls of the Inner City to its strikingly futuristic skyline, or further afield in places like Lake Goygol.

Fastest way to get there: There are no nonstop flights to Azerbaijan from the U.S. One of the fastest ways to get to Baku is flying Turkish Airlines with a layover in Istanbul. The airline flies to more than a dozen U.S. airports, many of them American, Delta and United hubs.

Why we chose it: If you’ve been wanting to visit South Korea, 2025 is the year to go. Through the end of the year, U.S. citizens are exempt from having to fill out the Korean Electronic Travel Authorization. The public transportation in Seoul is affordable (subway rides will cost you around $1 each), and you can easily get a meal for under $10.

What to do: Visitors to South Korea have the opportunity to embrace the country’s rich cultural heritage juxtaposed with the neon lights of its vibrant modern cities. K-pop fanatics will enjoy exploring Seoul, while outdoorsy travelers should head to Jeju Island, pictured above, where the orange chocolate is a must-try. Don’t forget to indulge in Korean BBQ and other delicacies like tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) and bibimbap (a rice bowl loaded with toppings). If you’re a home chef, consider taking a kimchi-making class.

Fastest way to get there: Travelers have multiple options to get to South Korea, although SkyTeam airlines Korean Air and Delta will likely offer the most connectivity. United and Star Alliance partner Asiana Airlines offer direct flights, as well as American. Air Premia, which offers a hybrid between low-cost and full-service carriers, is also an option.

Why we chose it: Thailand offers luxurious five-star resorts, but budget travelers have plenty of options, including street food meals for just a few dollars. While prices have risen as Thailand’s popularity booms, it’s still a fantastic place to travel affordably. U.S. tourists don’t need a visa. Expect even more tourists to flock there this year, after being featured as the backdrop for season three of HBO’s “The White Lotus.”

What to do: Thailand has always been popular with budget travelers. From beautiful beaches and jungles to cheap and tasty Thai food, travelers have an endless supply of affordable activities at their leisure, whether they’re in bustling Bangkok or trekking in Chiang Mai (pictured above).

Fastest way to get there: There are currently no nonstop flights between the U.S. and Thailand. In 2015, the Federal Aviation Administration determined that Thailand’s civil aviation authority did not meet international safety standards, barring Thai air carriers from launching new routes to the U.S. The FAA is expected to reverse its downgrade in 2025, which could open the way for airlines like Star Alliance’s Thai Airways to launch new nonstop service to the U.S.

Why we chose it: While its big cities can be expensive, Brazil still offers visitors a great deal. Get around using public transportation or a ride-hailing service like Uber, which can be incredibly affordable by American standards. U.S. travelers can visit visa-free until April 10, 2025. Afterward, they’ll need to apply for a visa, which costs $80.90 but is good for multiple entries over 10 years.

What to do: Brazil is a travel destination that delights and surprises each time you visit. Experience the food culture in São Paulo while taking in the vibrant street art and excellent museums. If you’re an art lover, get lost for a day at the open-air Inhotim Museum outside of Belo Horizonte. Head to Rio de Janeiro, where the beaches beckon and the enormous Christ the Redeemer statue looms over the city. Want to explore nature? Try the Amazon rainforest or Iguazu Falls, which sits on the border between Brazil and Argentina.

Fastest way to get there: American, Delta and United all fly nonstop to Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro. If you’re looking for a foreign carrier, you also have options. Although none of them are in an alliance, they do have partnerships with the three major U.S. airlines, allowing you to book with miles: Gol (American), LATAM (Delta) and Azul (United).

Why we chose it: You can spend as little, or as much, as you want in Peru to have a great time. You can exchange $1 for about 3.6 Peruvian soles. An added bonus: U.S. tourists can get a free visa when they arrive in Peru.

What to do: Peru is one of the most biologically diverse places in the world, encompassing everything from the towering Andes mountain range to the Amazon rainforest. Nature lovers, in particular, will enjoy hiking up Vinicunca, popularly known as Rainbow Mountain, and the dayslong treks to Machu Picchu. Don’t skip Lima on your way to other destinations. The capital city is one of the world’s most exciting culinary destinations, featuring favorites like ceviche, a raw-fish appetizer; lomo saltado, a beef stir-fry with French fries; and pisco sours, the national alcoholic beverage of choice.

Fastest way to get there: American, Delta and United all fly nonstop to Lima. Two local airlines also operate direct flights between the U.S. and Peru: LATAM, a Delta partner, and Sky Airline, a low-cost carrier.

Why we chose it: The Czech Republic offers the best of Europe — from charming medieval cities to relaxing spa towns — at a discount compared to what you’d find in Western Europe. You don’t need a visa to visit the Czech Republic, which is part of Europe’s Schengen area. However, like Romania and Hungary, keep an eye out for when the ETIAS is launched.

What to do: Take a tour through picturesque Prague with sites like the Charles Bridge and Prague Castle, but also consider exploring beyond the capital city, where prices will be even cheaper. And if you love beer, you’ll love being here, where the beer can be cheaper than water.

Fastest way to get there: Delta operates seasonal nonstop service to Prague from its hub at JFK. But if you’re flying off-season and hoping to book with points, you’ll want to consider European airlines that are part of an airline alliance.