If you're planning your next solo or family vacation and must stick to a strict budget, no problem. We've found the cheapest countries to visit around the world.
Despite the effects of inflation on everything from eggs to electric cars, there are many places where the dollar will work in your favor, getting you an exotic trip for less than you might expect.
Our ranking is based on the average estimated daily cost you'll pay once you reach your destination, considering daily prices for accommodation and food for one person.
If you want to know how to find and save money on flights to Europe, we've got some strategies for doing just that.
To inspire your flight hunting, here are 10 of the cheapest countries to travel to in 2025.
Data sources include TheGlobalEconomy.com, Numbeo's cost of living database, and Budget Your Trip.
10. South Africa
- Average hotel cost per night: $144
- Average cost of daily meals: $36
- Typical round-trip fare from San Diego: $2,041
- Travel advisory level: Level 2 – Exercise increased caution
- Approx. 1 USD = ~ 17.8 South African rand (ZAR)
South Africa offers a breathtaking blend of wildlife, natural beauty and adventure, making it a bucket-list destination for travelers. One of the best reasons to visit is to go on a safari.
The country is one of the world's best places to see the Big Five (elephant, buffalo, rhino, lion and leopard). With numerous national parks and private game reserves to choose from, such as Kruger National Park and Sabi Sands, unforgettable wildlife encounters await.
That's not all the country has to offer. While there, be sure to walk among the wildflowers of Namaqua, hike up Table Mountain, go whale-watching or spend a day relaxing on the beach.
Sponsored Content
9. Dominican Republic
- Average hotel cost per night: $202
- Average cost of daily meals: $60
- Typical round-trip fare from San Diego: $512
- Travel advisory level: Level 2 – Exercise increased caution
- Approx. 1 USD = ~ 64.2 Dominican pesos (DOP)
Only a two-hour flight from Miami and less than four hours from New York City, Americans are frequent visitors to this sunny, year-round Caribbean destination.
The Spanish-speaking Dominican Republic makes up half of the second-largest island in the Caribbean (Hispaniola); French-speaking Haiti makes up the western half.
With white sand beaches, lagoons and rainforests, there’s plenty to explore while enjoying the natural beauty of the country.
There are numerous hotels from which to choose from, and staying at the JW Marriott Hotel Santo Domingo will bring you close to the beaches and within a short walk of the Blue Mall and Agora Mall for shopping.
Sponsored Content
8. Costa Rica
- Average hotel cost per night: $168
- Average cost of daily meals: $40
- Typical round-trip fare from San Diego: $879
- Travel advisory level: Level 2 – Exercise increased caution
- Approx. 1 USD = ~ 502 Costa Rican colones (CRC)
Despite being the size of West Virginia, Costa Rica is a land of abundance and adventure.
The quiet Central American country has miles of coastline on both the Pacific and Caribbean oceans, and with jungle lodges, rainforest treks, volcanoes and cloud forests, it boasts some of the most diverse ecosystems on the planet.
From the wildlife-rich Osa Peninsula to the vibrant Monteverde Cloud Forest, you can see everything from howler monkeys and sloths to dazzling tropical birds such as toucans and scarlet macaws.
With fresh food and fruit in abundance, you can truly enjoy the “pura vida.”
One study even named Costa Rica as the best country to retire in 2024.
Sponsored Content
7. Portugal
- Average hotel cost per night: $102
- Average cost of daily meals: $78
- Typical round-trip fare from San Diego: $1,034
- Travel advisory level: Level 1 – Exercise normal precautions
- Approx. 1 USD = ~ 0.86 euros (EUR)
Portugal is one of the best-value destinations in Europe. It's known for its seafood, wine, views, delicious custard tarts (pastéis de nata) and 300-plus days of sunshine.
Whether you head for vibrant Lisbon, to the sandy beaches of the south or for a wine and port tour in Porto, you’ll get a reasonably priced vacation while enjoying the sights and sounds of this friendly southern European country.
Portugal is also on our list of the 10 Safest Countries to Visit and Best Countries to Retire 2024.
Sponsored Content
6. Poland
- Average hotel cost per night: $101
- Average cost of daily meals: $30
- Typical round-trip fare from San Diego: $540
- Travel advisory level: Level 1 – Exercise normal precautions
- Approx. 1 USD = ~ 3.65 Polish złoty (PLN)
Poland delivers exceptional value for travelers who want rich culture and history at an affordable price.
Visitors can explore the Wieliczka Salt Mine and stroll through Kraków’s and Wrocław’s colorful market squares. In Warsaw, the Royal Route and Palace of Culture and Science highlight the city’s blend of tradition and modern energy.
Beyond the cities, the Tatra Mountains offer hiking and skiing, while the Masurian Lakes invite peaceful sailing and outdoor adventures.
History lovers can visit Malbork Castle, the world’s largest brick fortress and food enthusiasts can enjoy classic pierogi and hearty Polish cuisine.
Sponsored Content
5. Turkey
- Average hotel cost per night: $118
- Average cost of daily meals: $52
- Typical round-trip fare from San Diego: $576
- Travel advisory level: Level 2 – Exercise increased caution
- Approx. 1 USD = ~ 40.6 Turkish lira (TRY)
Turkey is one of the most visited countries in the world but remains an underrated tourist destination.
Straddling Europe and Asia, Turkey is a fabulous melting pot of cultures that can be seen in everything from architecture to cuisine.
Explore the Grand Bazaar, the Blue Mosque and the Hagia Sophia. Beyond the capital, travelers can discover the ancient ruins of Ephesus, the thermal terraces of Pamukkale and the fairy chimneys of Cappadocia, famous for its hot air balloon rides.
There's an assortment of choices for visitors, from mountain ranges to beach-littered coasts, to the sprawling colorful metropolis of Istanbul, Turkey has everything.
Sponsored Content
4. Mexico
- Average hotel cost per night: $150
- Average cost of daily meals: $45
- Typical round-trip fare from San Diego: $600
- Travel advisory level: Level 2 – Exercise increased caution
- Approx. 1 USD = ~ 18.4 Mexican pesos (MXN)
America’s neighbor Mexico is home to Mexico City, the fifth-largest city in the world.
Mexico has several urban oases, such as Guadalajara with its vibrant arts scene and Monterrey’s modern skyline framed by stunning mountains. The North American country is also known for its beautiful beaches, which are regularly listed as some of the best in the world.
Popular beach destinations include the white sands of Cancun, the bohemian vibes of Tulum, the surfing haven of Sayulita and the stunning sunsets of Puerto Vallarta.
You can even take a day trip to see the Mayan ruins and swim in a cenote, an underground chamber. From ancient jungle ruins to iconic buildings, you’ll find pretty much everything you could want on a vacation — and for a good price.
Sponsored Content
3. Thailand
- Average hotel cost per night: $60
- Average cost of daily meals: $20
- Typical round-trip fare from San Diego: $942
- Travel advisory level: Level 2 – Exercise increased caution
- Approx. 1 USD = ~ 32 Thai baht (THB)
Flights to this South Asian country can be expensive, but other costs make up for it. Once you arrive in Thailand, you’ll find affordable luxury accommodations, inexpensive local transportation such as tuk-tuks and longtail boats and delicious street food that won’t break the bank.
Known for its tropical beaches such as Phuket, Krabi and Koh Samui. Thailand also boasts ancient jungle temples such as Wat Phra That Doi Suthep in Chiang Mai and the iconic Buddha statues and temples of Ayutthaya.
It's no wonder that Thailand is the second-most visited country in Southeast Asia.
Sponsored Content
2. Indonesia
- Average hotel cost per night: $70
- Average cost of daily meals: $20
- Typical round-trip fare from San Diego: $952
- Travel advisory level: Level 2 – Exercise increased caution
- Approx. 1 USD = ~ 16,600 Indonesian rupiah (IDR)
Indonesia is home to Bali — often at the top of the rankings when it comes to the best place to visit in the world. There’s more to this paradise of a country than Instagram-worthy views.
With more than 17,000 islands, Indonesia is the world’s largest island country, offering a diverse range of natural wonders and cultural experiences.
Explore Bali’s serene beaches, the dramatic volcanic landscapes of Mount Bromo and Mount Rinjani. Discover the rainforests of Sumatra, home to endangered orangutans, or visit Komodo Island to see the legendary Komodo dragons.
Whether you're diving in Raja Ampat’s coral reefs or hiking the lush mountain ranges of Flores, Indonesia’s beauty is unmatched — and best of all, your money goes a long way with affordable accommodations, local markets and budget-friendly attractions.
Sponsored Content
1. Vietnam
- Average hotel cost per night: $54
- Average cost of daily meals: $20
- Typical round-trip fare from San Diego: $974
- Travel advisory level: Level 1 – Exercise normal precautions
- Approx. 1 USD = ~ 26,500 Vietnamese dong (VND)
Vietnam is a beautiful country with culturally rich cities and diverse landscapes to explore.
There's a never-ending list of things to do while in this Southeast Asian country, such as eating the best banh mi in Ho Chi Minh City, exploring the bustling streets of Hanoi's Old Quarter, visiting the world's largest cave at Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park or taking a tour of Ha Long Bay.
From the terraced rice fields of Sapa to the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An, Vietnam’s charm extends far beyond its cities.
Whether you're cruising the Mekong Delta, relaxing on the beaches of Da Nang or exploring the imperial history of Hue.
In Vietnam, you'll have the experience of a lifetime without going broke.
Related Content
Sponsored Content
-
7 Frugal Habits That Aren't Worth It (and What to Do Instead)Avoiding waste is important, but some frugal habits are just more trouble than they're worth.
-
How Much Should You Spend on Holiday Gifts This SeasonWith U.S. consumers spending near record levels on holiday items, here's how much to allocate for gift-giving, how to avoid debt and how to fit your budget into your bigger financial picture.
-
The States Facing the Biggest Electric Bill Increases in 2025Energy prices keep rising. Discover the reasons behind the hikes, the areas most affected and how you can save on energy costs.
-
A Retirement Guide for Solo AgersIf you’re single without adult children to rely on for help, planning for your older years requires an added layer of intention and urgency.
-
I'm the CEO of a Credit Union: This Is What We Do to Earn Our Members' TrustWhat people want most from their financial institutions is a financial partner that listens, responds and acts with their best interests at heart.
-
What You Will Pay for Medicare in 2026Medicare premiums for 2026, as well as the costs of Parts A, B, and D, have increased. Here is how much you'll pay in 2026.
-
Your Four-Step Guide to True Financial Freedom, From a Financial PlannerYes, you can achieve financial independence, even if it seems elusive. While it may not be an easy journey, these are the steps to get things rolling.
-
Medicare Premiums 2026: IRMAA Brackets and Surcharges for Parts B and DWill you have to pay the monthly Medicare premium surcharge next year? It depends.
