Traveling solo has always been one of my favorite ways to explore the world. There’s something liberating about wandering through new cities on your own, setting your own pace, and getting to experience places in a way that feels deeply personal.
But as much as I love it, solo travel can sometimes get expensive if you don’t choose the right destination. Over the years, I’ve discovered that there are still plenty of budget-friendly tourist spots for solo travelers—places where you can stretch your budget without sacrificing amazing experiences.
Oaxaca, Mexico – Affordable Culture and Cuisine
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If you’re a solo traveler who loves vibrant culture, delicious food, and plenty of history, Oaxaca is a fantastic choice. I fell in love with this colorful city from the moment I arrived, and best of all, it’s incredibly affordable. You can easily find comfortable accommodations in hostels or budget hotels, and the food? Let’s just say it’s one of the best things about Oaxaca—tacos, tamales, and tlayudas are cheap, filling, and bursting with flavor.
The city itself is a joy to explore on foot, with colonial architecture, vibrant markets, and plenty of cultural sites to dive into, like the Templo de Santo Domingo or the ancient ruins of Monte Albán, which offer stunning views over the valley.
Why it’s budget-friendly: Oaxaca is known for its low cost of living, making it easy to enjoy great food, accommodations, and attractions without spending much. Street food is top-notch and cheap, and entrance fees to cultural sites are generally low.
Best solo activity: Wander through the colorful Mercado Benito Juárez, where you can try local snacks, browse artisan crafts, and get a real taste of Oaxacan culture.
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Hanoi, Vietnam – A Solo Traveler’s Paradise
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Hanoi is one of those cities that just buzzes with energy, and as a solo traveler, you’ll never feel out of place. The streets are a vibrant mix of scooters zipping by, food vendors selling steaming bowls of pho, and locals enjoying their morning coffee on tiny stools by the roadside. What I loved most about Hanoi was how easy it was to explore on foot—and how budget-friendly everything was.
You can find a bed in a hostel dorm for just a few dollars a night, and the street food is not only delicious but dirt cheap. One of my go-to meals was banh mi (a Vietnamese sandwich) from a street vendor—filling, flavorful, and usually less than $1.
Why it’s budget-friendly: Vietnam in general is known for being one of the most affordable destinations in Southeast Asia. Hanoi is packed with cheap accommodations, food, and free or low-cost attractions like the Hoan Kiem Lake and the city’s many temples.
Best solo activity: Take a stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake at dawn when the city wakes up. It’s a peaceful, reflective time, and you’ll see locals practicing tai chi by the water’s edge.
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Krakow, Poland – History, Charm, and Affordability
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When it comes to affordable European destinations, Krakow is at the top of my list. This Polish city is rich in history, with its beautifully preserved medieval architecture, winding cobblestone streets, and fascinating historical sites. What’s great about Krakow is that it’s incredibly walkable, and many of the city’s best attractions, like the Main Market Square and Wawel Castle, can be visited for little or no cost.
As a solo traveler, I loved how easy it was to meet other travelers in Krakow’s hostels, where dorm beds are inexpensive and often include breakfast. The local food scene is also a winner—hearty dishes like pierogi and zapiekanka are cheap and delicious.
Why it’s budget-friendly: Poland, in general, offers great value for travelers, and Krakow’s affordable accommodations, food, and transportation make it a prime spot for solo travelers on a budget.
Best solo activity: Take a free walking tour of the Old Town to get your bearings and dive into Krakow’s history. There are plenty of options that work on a tip basis, so you can give what you feel is fair.
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Tbilisi, Georgia – A Hidden Gem for Solo Adventurers
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If you haven’t considered Tbilisi for your next solo adventure, it’s time to put Georgia’s charming capital on your radar. I was blown away by the city’s blend of old-world charm and modern vibes. The best part? It’s incredibly affordable. You can find hostel beds for as little as $5 a night, and food—especially the local favorites like khachapuri (cheese-filled bread) and khinkali (dumplings)—is not only tasty but also very cheap.
Tbilisi is perfect for wandering, with its narrow streets, colorful balconies, and ancient churches. And if you’re looking for something extra special, head to the Abanotubani sulfur baths for a soak—affordable, relaxing, and a great way to meet locals.
Why it’s budget-friendly: Tbilisi is one of the cheapest capitals in Europe, with low-cost food, accommodations, and public transport, making it a fantastic destination for solo travelers on a budget.
Best solo activity: Hike up to Narikala Fortress for a panoramic view of the city. The hike is free, and the view at the top is worth every step.
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Medellin, Colombia – Affordable Urban Adventure
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I’ll admit, Medellín wasn’t always at the top of my solo travel list, but after spending some time there, I realized why so many solo travelers love it. Known as the “City of Eternal Spring” for its perfect weather, Medellín is not only safe and welcoming but also incredibly affordable for solo travelers. I was surprised at how far my money went—public transport is cheap and efficient, and meals at local restaurants rarely cost more than a few dollars.
The city has a vibrant cultural scene, with art, music, and dance filling the streets. I spent hours exploring the Comuna 13 neighborhood, known for its colorful street art, and taking the Metrocable up to the surrounding mountains for stunning views of the city.
Why it’s budget-friendly: Colombia’s low cost of living makes Medellín a great destination for solo travelers looking for urban adventure on a budget. Hostels are cheap, food is inexpensive, and the city offers plenty of free activities.
Best solo activity: Take a walking tour of Comuna 13—it’s not only an affordable way to explore but also gives you insight into Medellín’s transformation from its troubled past to its vibrant present.
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Sofia, Bulgaria – Europe’s Best-Kept Budget Secret
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I wasn’t expecting to fall in love with Sofia, but this underrated European capital quickly charmed me with its mix of ancient history and modern culture. What’s even better? It’s one of the most affordable cities in Europe. From hostel beds that cost as little as $10 a night to hearty meals for just a few dollars, Sofia is a dream for budget-conscious solo travelers.
The city’s rich history means there’s plenty to see and do without spending much. You can visit the impressive Alexander Nevsky Cathedral or explore the ancient ruins of Serdica, both of which are free to enter. Plus, Sofia’s vibrant café scene offers the perfect setting to relax and people-watch while enjoying a budget-friendly coffee.
Why it’s budget-friendly: Bulgaria’s low cost of living means that accommodation, food, and transportation are all incredibly affordable, even in the capital.
Best solo activity: Take a free walking tour of Sofia’s Old Town to dive into the city’s history and meet fellow travelers along the way.
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Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina – A Budget-Friendly Hidden Gem
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Sarajevo has a fascinating history, and as a solo traveler, I found it to be one of the most welcoming and affordable destinations I’ve ever visited. The city’s Ottoman-style architecture, bustling markets, and friendly locals make it feel both exotic and familiar at the same time. Best of all, it’s incredibly cheap, even by Eastern European standards.
I stayed in a cozy hostel for less than $15 a night, and every meal—whether it was burek (a savory pastry) or cevapi (grilled meat)—was affordable and delicious. Sarajevo’s rich history means there’s plenty to explore, from the Latin Bridge, where World War I began, to the haunting Tunnel of Hope.
Why it’s budget-friendly: Bosnia and Herzegovina is one of the cheapest countries in Europe, with low-cost accommodation, food, and transportation, making it ideal for solo travelers on a budget.
Best solo activity: Walk through the Baščaršija (Old Bazaar), where you can explore artisan shops, sip Bosnian coffee, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the city.
Conclusion
Solo travel doesn’t have to be expensive. In fact, some of the most memorable adventures I’ve had were in places where my money stretched further, allowing me to focus on the experience rather than my budget. So, grab your backpack, book that ticket, and get ready to explore the world without breaking the bank.
