The most affordable tourist destinations: where to go on holiday in 2024
You can get the most out of any holiday. When planning a trip, there are many factors to consider: from finding cheap flights to discounts when choosing hotels. It is worth looking for destinations with a favourable exchange rate, as well as taking into account the cost of living. Some of the most famous tourist cities in the world are great for travellers on any budget. Find out more about the most budget-friendly travel destinations in 2024
Kayak, the world's leading travel search engine, unlocks the secrets of affordable adventures. The company's experts have studied search query data from July 2023 to December 2023, identifying 250 popular destinations for travel in 2024. Among them, the most budget-friendly destinations with the best flight and hotel prices were identified. These trips were selected based on combined prices and safety criteria. As a result, we offer you a list of the most affordable and exciting locations for unforgettable trips around the world in 2024.
1. Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo is a city of contradictions, where luxury meets affordability. Capsule hotels here are becoming the choice of travellers on a budget, where for the price of a dorm bed you can get a comfortable horizontal cabin with more privacy. Another pleasant surprise is the price of hot ramen in a typical restaurant, which is only $4. From the bustling cross walk in Shibuya to the majestic Buddhist temple in Senso-ji, Tokyo offers free emotions on any budget.
Average prices: coffee $1.80, dinner $5.50, beer $3.
Interested in travelling to Japan? Check the entry rules here.
2. Jerez de la Frontera, Spain
Jerez, the birthplace of magical wines, impresses with its Andalusian elegance and freedom from the tourist flows of neighbouring Seville. Here you will be pleasantly surprised by the modest prices, especially in the Tabanco Plateros restaurant, where you can enjoy a serving of five sherries, fine cheese and mouth-watering cuts of meat for 10 euros. Or choose the del dia menu, a two-course set lunch menu with wine for around €15. Winery tours and tastings are an integral part of a visit to the city, but Jerez also values tranquillity, so you'll be welcome on the café terraces for a relaxing view of the city.
Average prices: coffee $0.9, dinner $12, beer $1.70.
See the rules for entering Spain in the checklist here.
3. Turkey
Turkey is a budget travel destination where you can enjoy the spectacular culture and nature without spending a lot of money. Mysterious historical monuments such as Gagganuya and Yeremekli provide travellers with a unique experience of architectural grandeur. The beautiful beaches of the Mediterranean and Aegean coasts, such as Antalya and Bodrum, beckon with their beauty and immediate accessibility. Traditional Turkish cuisine amazes the taste buds with its variety and colourfulness. Let Turkey be a discovery for those who seek an unforgettable experience without burdening their budget.
Average prices: coffee $2, dinner $6.50, beer $2.50.
Checklist for travelling to Turkey here.
4. Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon, the leader in the City Cost Barometer, remains an unrivalled European gem where savings thrive. In the most recent report by the Post Office's Postal Costs Division, Lisbon retained its top spot with virtually no price hikes. Two nights in a three-star hotel now costs only $121. The Portuguese capital boasts the title of the most budget-friendly in Western Europe, confirming this with a variety of bars where you can enjoy petiscos (small plates), such as a delicious octopus salad.
Average prices: coffee $1.50, dinner $14, beer $2.50.
Find the rules for entering Portugal here.
5. Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is an exotic land with a rich history and fascinating culture that is also becoming a great budget travel destination. In recent years, this island in South Asia has gained popularity among travellers. The nature of Sri Lanka is striking in its diversity - from tropical forests to exotic beaches. Nature reserves such as Yala and Uda Walawe offer the opportunity to observe wild animals such as elephants and leopards in their natural environment. Sri Lanka is rich in a unique cultural heritage that attracts those interested in history and architecture.
The Buddha's Tooth Temple in Kandy, the ancient cities of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, and the Adam's Shrine, a place for spiritual renewal, are among the must-see sites. The cost of food, transport and entertainment is significantly lower than in many other tourist destinations.