I feel that the five examples weren’t enough, so I’ve brought you five more beautiful and affordable places that are truly worth visiting.
1. Sumba, Indonesia
Why is it cheap? Less touristy than Bali, with budget-friendly accommodations and food.
Why is it a hidden gem? Unlike Bali, Sumba is still untouched by mass tourism, offering stunning waterfalls, traditional villages, and wild horses running on the beach.
What to do? Visit Weekuri Lagoon (a natural saltwater pool), explore traditional Sumba villages, and watch the sunset on Walakiri Beach, famous for its surreal mangrove trees.
2. Kotor, Montenegro
Why is it cheap? Montenegro is much more affordable than nearby Croatia or Italy.
Why is it a hidden gem? Kotor is a medieval coastal town with jaw-dropping fjord-like scenery, old stone buildings, and fewer crowds than Dubrovnik.
What to do? Hike up to San Giovanni Fortress for a panoramic view, wander through the old town’s narrow streets, and take a boat tour around the Bay of Kotor.
3. Sucre, Bolivia
Why is it cheap? Bolivia is one of the cheapest South American countries, and Sucre is very budget-friendly.
Why is it a hidden gem? Sucre is known as the “White City” because of its well-preserved colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and relaxed atmosphere.
What to do? Explore the Casa de la Libertad (where Bolivia’s independence was declared), visit Cal Orck’o (a fossil wall with thousands of dinosaur footprints), and hike around the Seven Cascadas waterfalls.
4. Gjirokastër, Albania
Why is it cheap? Albania remains one of the most affordable destinations in Europe.
Why is it a hidden gem? Often called the “Stone City,” Gjirokastër is a beautiful UNESCO-listed Ottoman-era town with fairy-tale architecture and a castle overlooking the valley.
What to do? Explore the Gjirokastër Castle, visit the cold blue waters of the Blue Eye Spring, and try traditional Albanian dishes like qifqi (fried rice balls).
5. Isfahan, Iran
Why is it cheap? Iran is incredibly cheap due to currency exchange rates.
Why is it a hidden gem? Isfahan is home to some of the most beautiful Islamic architecture in the world, with blue-tiled mosques, stunning bridges, and a rich Persian history.
What to do? Visit Naqsh-e Jahan Square (one of the world’s largest squares), admire the Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, and walk along the 33-arched Si-o-se-pol Bridge, which is breathtaking at night.