11 Budget-Friendly Dream Vacations Around the World

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From Portugal to Panama, here’s where you can get the most bang for your buck.

1. Toronto, Canada

Just north of the U.S. border is a growing city bursting with culture, a diverse culinary scene, and activities catering to a range of age groups and interests. Often mistaken for the Canadian capital, Toronto is sometimes known as “Hollywood North” for its wealth of celebrity residents. Foodies will appreciate the stops in Little Italy, several Chinatowns, and Little Portugal for a gastronomic jaunt around the world. Tourists may also be inclined to catch a hockey game, sample craft beer, and trek to the famous CN Tower for unmatched city views.

Kayak data indicates that Toronto’s low season runs from October to March, with the exception of December because of holiday travel. The cheapest flights can be found for about $180 from New York’s JFK Airport in October. A direct flight from JFK to Toronto takes less than two hours.

Hotels downtown are cheapest in January and February, where you can expect to pay as little as $33 per night for three-star accommodation. However, they cost more in September, averaging $371 per night.

2. Grand Est, France

The area formerly known as Alsace (now part of the Grand Est region) is popular among French travelers due to its scenic charm. It attracts fewer visitors compared to Paris or the Cote d’Azur, allowing a quieter exploration experience. Kaysersberg, highlighted in the TV program Le Village Préféré des Français, showcases the attributes that endear Alsace to locals, featuring architecture from the 13th century, celebrated wine cellars, and hearty Alsatian fare.

For the best prices, fly into Strasbourg, the capital of Grand Est, during February or March. From New York City, round-trip flights cost under $700, and you can find three-star hotel stays for as low as $89 per night in the off-season. The cheapest months for accommodations in Grand Est are generally August and October.

3. Armenia

Armenia captures the interest of tourists with its vibrant arts scene, high-end shopping, and history museums filled with treasures. While Yerevan, the capital, draws significant attention, a visit is incomplete without exploring the stunning countryside. Experience Khor Virap, a monastery established in the 600s, for breathtaking mountainside views and ancient architecture located just 45 minutes from Yerevan.

Winter is considered Armenia’s low season. The most affordable month to fly from NYC to Yerevan is November, averaging $838 for a round trip, although flights from January through March are similarly priced. Also, expect to pay around $90 per night for three-star hotels in January, the cheapest month for accommodations.

4. Brisbane, Australia

The capital of Queensland, located along Australia’s east coast, is arguably the country’s design capital. Drop by the Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art (commonly called QAGOMA) or the Institute of Modern Art for insights into Asian-Pacific art. Experience shopping in the Fortitude Valley district, where both local and international designers can be found. Additionally, visit the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary to interact with a variety of wildlife.

Typically, Australia is not categorized as a “budget travel” destination for Americans, with a cheapest round-trip flight from NYC to Brisbane nearing $1,000. However, relative to other Australian destinations, this waterfront city offers more affordable access. The cheapest month to secure a flight to Brisbane is September, which marks the beginning of spring in the Southern Hemisphere. Also, budget for around $150 per night for three-star hotels from April through July, with higher prices seen in August.

5. Madeira, Portugal

It has been 600 years since the Portuguese colonized Madeira, and this archipelago continues to amaze visitors with its natural allure. Walk along rugged coastal trails for breathtaking vistas of the Atlantic Ocean. The capital, Funchal, features numerous hotels offering luxury and lively nightlife. Don’t forget to try the famous fortified wine named after this beautiful island.

Typically, a round-trip flight from NYC to Funchal costs between $650 and $1,100, with the lowest prices available from November and January to May. When it comes to hotel prices, expect a similar range from $150 to $330 per night for a three-star property.

6. Tunisia

For a more affordable Mediterranean vacation, venture south to Tunisia. The country offers rich history (like the Roman colosseum—the Amphitheatre of El Jem—which is often touted as even better than its Roman counterpart), miles of scenic sandy beaches, and bustling bazaars filled with carpets, ceramics, and metalwork.

According to Kayak data, the best time to fly from NYC to Tunis, the capital, is November (about $560), followed by September to October and January to May ($608 to $768). Prices for a night at a three-star hotel in Tunis fall between $100 to $200, with the cheapest months on Kayak being September and December through March.

7. Etyek, Hungary

While Budapest attracts the majority of Hungary’s visitors, Etyek offers a glimpse into the country’s deeper culture, located just 18 miles west of the capital. Known as the “vineyards of Budapest,” this area has produced quality grapes since the 18th century and is celebrated for excellent wines like Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. Etyek has a notable film history as well, having hosted productions like “Blade Runner 2049” and “The Martian.”

According to Kayak data, the cheapest flights to Hungary from NYC are typically between September through November and January through April, averaging $524 to $620. While September is cheap for flights, it’s the most expensive month for accommodations. Booking a trip in January, February, or March can secure a three-star hotel for $160 a night or less.

8. St. Vincent and the Grenadines

Despite being the last British colonies in the Caribbean to gain independence in 1979, St. Vincent and the Grenadines offer stunning beaches and crowded hiking trails surrounded by lush rainforest. Visitors will arrive at St. Vincent’s Argyle International Airport, opened since 2017, and ferry over to the Grenadines from Kingstown.

Round-trip flights from NYC can be secured for under $600 in March, May, and November. Throughout the year, hotels on St. Vincent remain affordable, with average nightly prices under $200 for three-star options. December is the cheapest month for accommodation at approximately $50 a night.

9. Panama City, Panama

Meander through Panama City’s old quarter, characterized by Spanish-style houses lining cobblestone streets. Indulge in Panamanian cuisine—such as yuca, plantains, empanadas, sancocho de gallina (chicken stew), and fish soup—while enjoying the city’s vibrant cocktail culture. The rainforest is a short distance away, offering a contrast to the urban jungle.

Despite being in the Northern Hemisphere, Panama’s two seasons are opposite to those of the U.S. The “winter” (wet season) spans from May to December, while “summer” (dry season) lasts from December to May. Traveling during the wet season is generally more affordable, despite the less favorable weather.

Round-trip flight prices from NYC to Panama City’s Tocumen International Airport range from $339 to $659, with the best deals found from April to June and September to October. The most expensive flights occur in December, but budget accommodations are available. Expect to find three-star hotels for under $130 per night during June to September.

10. Guatemala

Guatemala consistently ranks as a reader favorite due to its blend of natural beauty and historic wonders. Visitors can explore ancient Mayan ruins, hike through mountainous jungles, or stroll the historic streets of the UNESCO World Heritage site, Antigua. Guatemala also offers a vibrant arts scene, beautifully preserved Spanish architecture, and unique local dishes like chuchitos (Guatemalan-style tamales).

Plan your trip for May or September for the most affordable flights ($269 to $344) via Kayak. Accommodations during that period are generally priced between $120 to $140 per night for three-star hotels, while August emerges as the cheapest month for lodging, averaging about $108 nightly.

11. Hanoi, Vietnam

A visit to Hanoi offers a rich palette of experiences, including vibrant culture, millennia-old history, and a food scene ranging from street carts to Michelin-starred establishments. The enticing flavors of Vietnamese cuisine, such as the beloved banh mi, remain accessible; with $1 USD converting to about 25,000 Vietnamese dong, travelers will find budgeting for indulgences easier than ever.

Round-trip flights from NYC to Hanoi average $870 during low periods, specifically between September and November, when the transition from the hot, humid season to the dry (and tourist-friendly) season occurs. During this timeframe, three-star hotel rates typically range from $125 to $150 per night.