Travelling as a young adult can be thrilling, especially when you’re on a budget. Here are the top 10 cheap places for 18-year-olds to travel that offer amazing experiences without emptying their wallets.
Looking for affordable travel destinations? Here are the top 10 cheap places to travel for 18-year-olds, offering rich cultural experiences and stunning sights without breaking the bank. Explore budget-friendly spots like Thailand, Vietnam, and Portugal for unforgettable adventures.
Cheap Places to Travel for 18-Year-Olds
Travelling as an 18-year-old can be exciting and affordable. Southeast Asia offers great options like Thailand and Vietnam, which are known for their beautiful landscapes, rich cultures, and budget-friendly accommodations. You can enjoy stunning beaches, vibrant markets, and delicious street food without spending much.
Europe also has affordable destinations for young travellers. Portugal’s Lisbon and Porto are perfect for exploring historic cities and enjoying lively nightlife on a budget. Hungary’s Budapest offers stunning architecture and thermal baths, making it a great budget-friendly destination for 18-year-olds.
Top 10 Cheap Places to Travel for 18-Year-Olds
01. Thailand
Thailand is a paradise for budget travellers. With its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich culture, there’s something for everyone. You can explore bustling cities like Bangkok, relax on the islands, or trek through lush jungles.
- Highlights: Stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich culture.
- Budget Tips: Stay in hostels, eat street food, and use public transportation.
02. Vietnam
Vietnam offers beautiful landscapes, historical sites, and delicious cuisine. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the serene countryside of Sapa, there’s so much to see and do. Take advantage of the famous Halong Bay and its breathtaking limestone islands.
- Highlights: Beautiful landscapes, historical sites, and delicious cuisine.
- Budget Tips: Opt for budget accommodations, take overnight buses, and enjoy local markets.
03. Portugal
Portugal is known for its gorgeous coastlines, historic cities, and affordable cuisine. Lisbon and Porto are vibrant cities with rich histories, while the Algarve region offers stunning beaches and charming villages.
- Highlights: Gorgeous coastlines, historic cities, and affordable cuisine.
- Budget Tips: Use public transport, explore free attractions, and dine in local cafes.
04. Mexico
Mexico is rich in culture and natural beauty. Explore ancient ruins, relax on beautiful beaches, and enjoy vibrant cities like Mexico City and Cancun. The local food is a treat, with plenty of affordable options.
- Highlights: Ancient ruins, beautiful beaches, and vibrant cities.
- Budget Tips: Stay in budget-friendly hostels, eat at local eateries, and use public transportation.
05. Hungary
Hungary, with its stunning architecture and thermal baths, is a must-visit. Budapest is the crown jewel, offering a mix of history, culture, and nightlife. Take advantage of the thermal baths and the historic Buda Castle.
- Highlights: Stunning architecture, thermal baths, and rich history.
- Budget Tips: Book affordable hostels, walk or bike around cities, and enjoy local street food.
06. Greece
Greece is home to historical landmarks and picturesque islands. Athens offers a glimpse into ancient history, while islands like Santorini and Mykonos provide stunning views and vibrant nightlife.
- Highlights: Historical landmarks, picturesque islands, and delicious food.
- Budget Tips: Travel during off-peak seasons, stay in budget accommodations, and use ferries.
07. Indonesia
Indonesia is an archipelago with exotic islands, diverse wildlife, and vibrant culture. Bali is a favourite among young travellers, offering beautiful beaches, temples, and lively markets.
- Highlights: Exotic islands, diverse wildlife, and vibrant culture.
- Budget Tips: Stay in guesthouses, eat at local warungs, and use public transport.
08. Czech Republic
The Czech Republic, especially Prague, is known for its fairy-tale castles and lively nightlife. The architecture is stunning, and the city’s history is fascinating. It’s a great destination for history buffs and partygoers alike.
- Highlights: Fairy-tale castles, lively nightlife, and beautiful architecture.
- Budget Tips: Use public transportation, visit free attractions, and stay in hostels.
09. India
India offers a rich cultural heritage and diverse landscapes. From the bustling streets of Delhi to the serene backwaters of Kerala, there’s something for everyone. The Taj Mahal in Agra is a must-see.
- Highlights: Rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and vibrant cities.
- Budget Tips: Stay in budget accommodations, eat at local dhabas, and use trains and buses.
10. Morocco
Morocco is known for its exotic markets, stunning deserts, and historic cities. Explore the winding streets of Marrakech, trek the Atlas Mountains, or ride camels in the Sahara Desert.
- Highlights: Exotic markets, stunning deserts, and historic cities.
- Budget Tips: Stay in riads, eat street food, and use local transportation.
Budget Travel Tips for 18-Year-Olds
- Accommodation: Opt for hostels, guesthouses, or budget hotels.
- Food: Eat at local markets and street food stalls.
- Transport: Use public transportation or walk to explore the city.
- Activities: Look for free or low-cost attractions and activities.
Table: Budget Tips for Each Destination
| Destination | Accommodation Tips | Food Tips | Transportation Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thailand | Hostels | Street food | Public transport |
| Vietnam | Budget accommodations | Local markets | Overnight buses |
| Portugal | Public transport | Local cafes | Free attractions |
| Mexico | Budget-friendly hostels | Local eateries | Public transport |
| Hungary | Affordable hostels | Street food | Walk or bike |
| Greece | Budget accommodations | Local tavernas | Ferries |
| Indonesia | Guesthouses | Local warungs | Public transport |
| Czech Republic | Hostels | Local eateries | Public transportation |
| India | Budget accommodations | Local dhabas | Trains and buses |
| Morocco | Riads | Street food | Local transportation |
Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean you have to miss out on amazing experiences. These top 10 cheap places to travel for 18-year-olds offer rich cultures, stunning sights, and unforgettable adventures, all without breaking the bank. Plan smart, stay flexible, and enjoy your journey!