Last updated on February 16th, 2025

After traveling and living in Asia for 10+ years, I’ve learned a lot about the cost of living in each country. The continent offers many affordable countries with vibrant cultures, tasty cuisines, beautiful nature, and rich history. Whether you’re seeking city life, tranquil beaches, or remote villages, there’s something for every type of traveler in Asia. Below are the 7 Best Cheap Travel Destinations in Asia along with estimated expenses such as food/accommodation/transport, and pros and cons (not necessarily in order.)

Let’s dive into the details!

1. Vietnam

• Top Destinations in Vietnam: Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Ho Chi Minh City, Hoi An, Ha Long Bay
• Pros: Affordable street food, budget-friendly accommodations, stunning landscapes, rich history.
• Cons: Busy traffic in big cities, occasional language barriers.
• Cost Breakdown:
  • Street food: $1 – $3
  • Hotels: $15 – $30/night
  • Buses: $5 – $10

Vietnam is a traveler’s paradise if you’re on a budget. From the ancient streets of Hanoi to the bustling markets of Ho Chi Minh City, the country is steeped in history and culture. One of the biggest highlights is Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage town, famous for its lantern-lit nights and tailor shops. Exploring its old town is like stepping back in time, and it won’t cost much at all. The beaches around Da Nang and Ha Long Bay offer stunning natural beauty, all while keeping your expenses low.

The food scene is another reason to love Vietnam. Street food like pho, banh mi, and spring rolls are incredibly cheap and flavorful. For accommodation, budget hostels and guesthouses are easily found in tourist areas, allowing you to stay in comfort without overspending. The downside? Cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh can get overwhelming due to the sheer volume of people and traffic, but with a little patience, it’s manageable.

2. Thailand

• Top Destinations in Thailand: Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Krabi
• Pros: Diverse landscapes, fantastic street food, excellent infrastructure.
• Cons: Some areas, especially touristy islands, can be pricey. Traffic in Bangkok can be frustrating.
• Cost Breakdown:
  • Street food: $1 – $3
  • Hotels: $20 – $40/night
  • Tuk-tuks: $2 – $5

Thailand is one of the best cheap travel destinations in Asia, and for good reason. Whether you’re exploring the vibrant streets of Bangkok, soaking in the mountainous beauty of Chiang Mai, or relaxing on the beaches of Krabi, you’ll find that traveling in Thailand is both affordable and rewarding. The street food is legendary – for just a few dollars, you can feast on kao pad, pad thai, mango sticky rice, or som tam.

Bangkok is known for its buzzing atmosphere and incredible temples like Wat Pho and the Grand Palace. If you want something more laid-back, Chiang Mai offers a peaceful vibe and opportunities for hiking and exploring ancient temples. For beach lovers, Krabi is a must-see, with its limestone cliffs and crystal-clear waters. The downside? While Thailand is cheap, places like Phuket can get expensive due to the influx of tourists. To save money, opt for exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations.

3. Indonesia

• Top Destinations: Bali, Jakarta, Yogyakarta
• Pros: Beautiful beaches, rich culture, affordable accommodation.
• Cons: Tourist-heavy areas like Bali can be pricey, especially for food and excursions.
• Cost Breakdown:
  • Meals: $2 – $5 for local dishes
  • Hotels: $15 – $35/night
  • Scooter rentals: $3 – $5/day

Indonesia, particularly Bali, is renowned for being an affordable paradise, depending on where you go. While Bali is more touristy and expensive, exploring places like Yogyakarta can give you a more authentic and budget-friendly experience. Yogyakarta is a hub for Javanese culture, and its proximity to the iconic Borobudur and Prambanan temples makes it a must-see. If you’re in Bali, renting a scooter for a day or more and exploring hidden beaches or local villages is a great way to experience the island without spending too much. Just be safe!

Bali offers a unique blend of spirituality and relaxation. You can find yoga retreats, surf lessons, and stunning beach resorts at varying price points. Though some areas cater to luxury travelers, it’s still possible to find budget accommodations and cheap eats if you avoid tourist traps. For example, sticking to local warungs (small restaurants) rather than high-end cafes can significantly lower your costs and they’re everywhere.

4. Cambodia

• Top Destinations: Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, Sihanoukville
• Pros: Extremely affordable, home to the world-famous Angkor Wat, welcoming locals.
• Cons: Infrastructure can be lacking, transportation can be challenging at times.
• Cost Breakdown:
  • Meals: $1 – $4
  • Hotels: $15 – $40/night
  • Buses: $6 – $10

Cambodia is one of Southeast Asia’s most affordable destinations, and it’s especially famous for the ancient Angkor Wat temple complex near Siem Reap. The entry fee might be one of the higher expenses you encounter, but the sheer size and beauty of the temples make it worth every penny. Siem Reap itself is a budget traveler’s dream with cheap hostels, restaurants, and bars catering to backpackers.

Phnom Penh offers a deeper dive into the country’s recent history, particularly with the haunting reminders of the Khmer Rouge regime at the Killing Fields and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum. Meanwhile, Sihanoukville and the surrounding islands offer some fantastic beaches at a fraction of the cost you’d pay in more famous destinations like Thailand. However, Cambodia’s public infrastructure isn’t as developed as other countries in the region, which can make traveling between destinations a bit more challenging.

5. Laos

• Top Destinations: Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng, Vientiane
• Pros: Beautiful, serene landscapes, budget-friendly accommodation, friendly locals.
• Cons: Public transport is somewhat limited and can be challenging to navigate.
• Cost Breakdown:
  • Meals: $1 – $4
  • Hotels: $10 – $25/night
  • Buses: $5 – $10

Laos is one of the best cheap travel destinations in Southeast Asia, perfect for travelers looking for peace and nature. Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is known for its serene temples and scenic waterfalls, while Vang Vieng is more famous for its adventurous tubing down the Nam Song River. The pace of life in Laos is slow, making it an ideal place to unwind and explore nature without the crowds you’d find in neighboring countries.

Vientiane, the capital, is quieter compared to other Southeast Asian capitals but offers a few gems like the That Luang stupa and Patuxai monument. You’ll find accommodation and food to be very cheap, and while public transport is available, it can sometimes be unreliable. Renting a motorbike can be a more convenient way to get around the rural areas and fully enjoy Laos’ breathtaking landscapes.

6. India

• Top Destinations: Delhi, Jaipur, Goa, Varanasi
• Pros: Extremely cheap, diverse experiences, rich culture, incredible history.
• Cons: Overwhelming for first-time travelers, especially in big cities, crowds and pollution can be an issue.
• Cost Breakdown:
  • Meals: $1 – $3
  • Hotels: $15 – $45/night
  • Trains: $2 – $10

India can be one of the cheapest travel destinations in the world, offering an incredibly diverse range of experiences. From the chaotic streets of Delhi to the peaceful ghats of Varanasi, India is an assault on the senses. You can explore the historic wonders of Jaipur’s Amber Fort or the iconic Taj Mahal in Agra for next to nothing. Beaches in Goa offer a more laid-back vibe with budget beach huts and delicious seafood available at every turn.

While public transport, especially India’s iconic train system, is affordable and generally efficient, it can also be overwhelming. India can sometimes be a culture shock for first-time travelers due to its sheer size, noise, and crowds. However, it’s also one of the most rewarding travel experiences if you’re up for the adventure. To get the most out of India, slow travel is key, allowing you to soak in the country’s rich culture and history.

7. Philippines

• Top Destinations: Manila, Palawan, Cebu
• Pros: Stunning beaches, affordable stays, English-speaking locals.
• Cons: Inter-island flights can add up, underdeveloped transportation in rural areas.
• Cost Breakdown:
  • Meals: $2 – $5
  • Hotels: $18 – $45/night
  • Inter-island flights: $30 – $50

The Philippines is a paradise for beach lovers and adventurers alike, known for its white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and friendly locals. Whether you’re exploring the limestone cliffs of Palawan or diving in Cebu’s famous coral reefs, there’s plenty to see on a budget. The cost of living is affordable, and because English is widely spoken, it’s easier to navigate compared to other Southeast Asian countries.

However, the challenge with the Philippines is its geography. The country is made up of over 7,000 islands, which means inter-island transportation can get pricey, especially if you’re relying on flights. That said, if you plan your travel routes carefully and take advantage of budget airlines, it’s possible to explore this beautiful country without breaking the bank.

Conclusion of The Best Cheap Travel Destinations in Asia

Asia is a treasure trove the best cheap travel destinations in Asia, offering everything from bustling cities and ancient temples to tranquil beaches and breathtaking mountains. It’s also where I got my start with international travel so I will always have a warm spot for everything Asian!

Whether you’re into history, culture, food, or nature, there’s a place for you that won’t break the bank. Wherever you choose to go, Asia as a whole offers high-value experiences at often lower costs compared to many other parts of the world. So what are you waiting for? Book your ticket now.