For budget-conscious international solo travelers, Southeast Asia and parts of Europe offer excellent value. Vietnam, Thailand, and Indonesia are particularly popular choices in Southeast Asia due to their affordability and diverse attractions. In Europe, Portugal, Bulgaria, and Hungary stand out for their lower costs compared to the conventional Western European countries.
Traveling solo internationally doesn’t have to be expensive. Start by choosing budget-friendly destinations where your currency stretches further — such as Southeast Asia, Eastern Europe, or Central America. Book flights in advance, travel during the shoulder (lean) season, and stay in hostels, homestays, or Airbnb to save on accommodation.
Going on solo trips – whether as females in a group, or completely solo can seem daunting at first but if planned the right way, depending on the location, it can turn out to be a memorable exciting experience for a lifetime.
Top 5 Budget-Friendly Countries for Solo Travel
1) Sofia, Bulgaria –
Sofia, Bulgaria’s capital, is one of Europe’s oldest cities, where Roman ruins sit beside Orthodox churches and Soviet-era monuments. Top attractions include Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Vitosha Boulevard, and nearby Mount Vitosha for nature lovers. It’s affordable, less crowded, and culturally intriguing.
Getting There: Flights from India cost about INR 35000/-. Land travel from nearby cities like Istanbul is affordable.
Daily Budget: INR 3000/- – 4000/- for accommodation, food, and transport.
Top Attractions:
– Alexander Nevsky Cathedral: Free to enter and admire its architecture.
– Boyana Church: Entry fee is Rs 600.
– Vitosha Boulevard: Great for shopping and people-watching (free to visit).
2) Kotor, Montenegro –
Picturesque scenic beaches with the cleanest water you’ve ever seen, a mesmerizing landscape of luscious mountains, and Kotor, which offers a rich history and cultural depth inside its Old Town walls.
Getting There: Flights from India cost about INR 60,000 – 65,000 for a return trip/-. There are no direct flights from India to Montenegro. You’ll need 1–2 layovers.
Daily Budget: INR 3500 – 4500/- for accommodation, food, and transport.
Top Attractions:
– Kotor Old Town (Stari Grad)
– St. Tryphon Cathedral & Orahovac Beach
– San Giovanni Fortress, Bay of Kotor,
3) Madeira, Portugal –
Madeira is a stunning Portuguese island in the Atlantic Ocean, often called the “Hawaii of Europe.” Known for its volcanic mountains, lush greenery, ocean cliffs, and year-round spring weather, it’s perfect for nature lovers, hikers, and peaceful luxury seekers. With its stunning coastline, historic cities, and delicious cuisine, Portugal is becoming an increasingly popular destination for budget travelers.
Getting There: Since there are no direct flights, you’ll need to book a connecting flight, likely with a layover in a major European city. Popular airlines include Emirates, TAP Portugal, and others that connect through hubs in Europe.
The average time is around 18 hours, which will cost around INR 45000 for a round trip.
(Mumbai International Airport >> Funchal International Airport)
Daily Budget: INR 4000 – 6000/- for accommodation, food, and transport.
Top Attractions:
– Pico do Arieiro, Zona Velha (Old Town)
– Dolphin & Whale Watching Tour
– Levada Walks (Irrigation Trails)
4) Prague, Czech Republic –
Prague, the “City of a Hundred Spires,” is famous for its stunning Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance architecture. Highlights include Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, and the Astronomical Clock. The city blends fairytale charm with vibrant nightlife, cozy cafés, and historic charm, all set along the scenic Vltava River.
Getting There: Flights from India to Prague cost around Rs 35,000. Alternatively, take a budget train from Vienna or Berlin.
Daily Budget: INR 4000/- – 5000/- for accommodation, food, and transport.
Top Attractions:
– Charles Bridge: A picturesque walk with street performers (free).
– Prague Castle: Entry tickets start at Rs 900.
– Old Town Square: Watch the Astronomical Clock performance every hour.
5) Budapest, Hungary –
Budapest, split by the Danube River into Buda and Pest, offers thermal baths, grand boulevards, and majestic architecture. Must-see spots include the Parliament Building, Buda Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion, and Széchenyi Thermal Bath. It’s a lively city known for its rich history, ruin bars, and beautiful bridges.
Getting There: Flights from Delhi to Budapest start at Rs 30,000 (round trip). Another option is to fly to Vienna and take a train or bus (Rs 2,000– Rs 3,000).
Daily Budget: INR 3,000–Rs 4,000 for accommodation, food, and transport.
Top Attractions:
– Buda Castle: Explore the history of Hungary (free entry to the grounds).
– Széchenyi Thermal Baths: Tickets start at Rs 2,500.
– Fisherman’s Bastion: Enjoy panoramic views of the city (Rs 500 for access to the upper deck).
Tips for Budget Travel:
- Travel during the shoulder season: This is when you can find better deals on flights and accommodations.
- Utilize public transportation: Buses and trains are often much cheaper than taxis or rental cars.
- Eat like the locals do: Try the street food or local restaurants, which are often much more affordable than tourist-oriented establishments.
- Consider volunteering or work exchange programs: This can be a great way to save money and experience a destination in a deeper way.
- Be mindful of your belongings and take necessary safety precautions, especially in crowded areas.
