How to travel this summer without breaking the bank
Are you dreaming of a summer vacation but worried about your budget? Don’t worry — you can still have the trip of a lifetime without spending a fortune. In this blog post, we’ll explore the best cheap places to travel summer and give you practical tips on how to save money while still having an unforgettable experience.
Whether you want beaches, food, culture, or adventure, these three destinations deliver all the fun — without the crazy price tag. Finding cheap places to travel summer isn’t just possible, it’s a smart way to explore more for less.
Let’s dive in!
Lisbon, Portugal
A Mediterranean Dream Without the Price Tag
Why you should visit:
✅ Beautiful coastal views and golden beaches
✅ Budget-friendly food & wine culture
✅ Free or low-cost attractions across the city
Lisbon is one of the best cheap places to travel summer in Europe — and arguably, the most underrated. Portugal’s capital is packed with charm, sunshine, and that perfect mix of beach relaxation and vibrant city life.
The best part? It’s incredibly affordable compared to cities like Paris or Rome. You can grab a pastel de nata (iconic custard tart) and a strong coffee for under $3, and dine on fresh seafood for less than $15.
What to do in Lisbon on a budget:
- Ride Tram 28 for a scenic tour through Lisbon’s historic neighborhoods — just a regular transit ticket needed!
- Visit Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery — low entry fee or free with Lisboa Card
- Take the ferry across the Tagus River for amazing skyline views
- Enjoy Fado music in the Alfama district – some spots are donation-based
If you love the idea of summer on a budget, Lisbon is your place. It truly stands out as one of the top cheap places to travel summer in Europe.
Tbilisi, Georgia
The Ultimate Hidden Gem for Budget Travelers
Why you should visit:
✅ One of the cheapest countries to travel to in summer
✅ Unique mix of European and Asian cultures
✅ Hearty, delicious food for super low prices
Tbilisi is a city that surprises most travelers — in the best way. This capital of Georgia (the country, not the U.S. state) is safe, stunning, and wonderfully inexpensive.
You can get by on $20–30 per day here, and still enjoy incredible experiences. That’s why it ranks among the most exciting cheap places to travel summer.
Highlights not to miss:
- Wander the Old Town with its colorful wooden balconies and cobblestone streets
- Take a sulfur bath in Abanotubani — a relaxing must-do starting at just $10
- Ride the cable car up to Narikala Fortress for epic views (about $1)
- Feast on khinkali (dumplings) and khachapuri (cheese-filled bread) for under $5
For those looking for low-cost travel ideas, Tbilisi is a jackpot — it’s full of culture, nature, and affordability, making it a standout among cheap places to go this summer.
Cheap Places to Go This Summer: Southeast Asia’s Hidden Star 🌴
Da Nang, Vietnam
Beach + Culture + Comfort… For Less Than You’d Think
Why you should visit:
✅ Stunning beaches that rival Thailand — without the crowds
✅ Some of the cheapest street food in the world
✅ Access to nearby Hoi An, a UNESCO gem
If you’re looking for cheap places to travel summer where you can combine nature, food, and culture, Da Nang should be on your list. Flights from Europe or the U.S. can be surprisingly affordable during low season — especially if you book early or use a flight alert service like Skyscanner or Google Flights.
Once you’re there? It’s paradise for budget travelers.
You can get:
- A beach-view hotel room for $15/night
- Full meal from a street vendor for $1.50
- A Grab taxi across the city for under $2
Top things to do:
- Relax at My Khe Beach – long stretches of golden sand and crystal water
- Visit Marble Mountains – entry costs around $2 and offers caves, temples & views
- Day trip to Hoi An – just 30 minutes away, perfect for lantern-lit evenings and tailormade clothes
If you want to mix tropical views with low prices, this is one of the best cheap places to travel summer — especially in Southeast Asia.
Bonus Tip: Save Even More While Traveling
If you really want to stretch your travel budget, consider:
- Staying in hostels or Airbnbs instead of hotels
- Eating at local street markets rather than tourist restaurants
- Using public transport or bike/scooter rentals
- Traveling with a refillable water bottle & snacks
This strategy works in all the cheap places to travel summer, whether you’re headed to Europe or Asia.
Final Thoughts 🌍
Affordable destinations this summer aren’t just possible — they’re some of the best travel experiences you can have. By choosing locations like Lisbon, Tbilisi, and Da Nang, you’ll not only save money but also discover places that are full of heart, flavor, and adventure.
So… which one are you adding to your summer list? Let me know in the comments or tag me on Instagram when you go! ✈️💬
Psst — Want more ideas? Check out my post on Cheap Travel in Europe for even more budget-friendly inspiration.
Thanks for reading, and happy travels! 💛
/Thomas
FAQ – Cheap Places to Travel Summer
Where is the cheapest place to travel in summer?
Lisbon, Portugal is perfect — beaches, history, great food, and low costs. One of the all-time best cheap places to travel summer.
Where is the best place to visit in summer in low budget?
Lisbon, Portugal is perfect — beaches, history, great food, and low costs. It’s ideal for a full summer trip on a modest budget.
Which is the cheapest country to travel to?
Vietnam consistently ranks as one of the world’s cheapest countries to travel to, especially places like Da Nang and Hanoi.
Where is the cheapest nicest place to vacation?
Da Nang, Vietnam offers luxury-level beaches and affordable living costs — a perfect combo of cheap and amazing.
Which country is cheapest in July?
Georgia is incredibly affordable in July — plus it’s not overwhelmed with tourists like many other European countries. A prime cheap place to travel summer.
Which country is best to visit in summer?
Portugal is one of the top picks: sunny, safe, delicious and cheap. Lisbon especially offers amazing summer vibes.