If you are searching for family destinations on a budget, you will find that there are many excellent options that provide enjoyable experiences without having to spend large amounts of money.
From stunning scenery to free or low-cost fun activities, these destinations offer great opportunities for family fun on a budget
Table of Contents
1. Porto – Portugal
In Porto, Portugal, you can enjoy a number of fun activities and delicious foods without breaking your budget. Explore the streets of the Old City, which are distinguished by their unique architecture and ancient history.
You can take a free walking tour to learn about major sights such as the Clergus Tower and Porto Cathedral. On the banks of the Douro River, you can enjoy an affordable boat tour that takes you through the stunning views of the city.
Savor the flavors of Porto by trying delicious “bacalhao sandwiches” at one of the local restaurants that serve meals at low prices, or visit Bolhao Market for fresh foods and local products at affordable prices.
2. Bali – Indonesia
In Bali, you can enjoy diverse experiences on a limited budget. Start your day with a visit to Kuta Beach, where you can relax in the sun and swim in the warm waters for free.
After spending your time at the beach, head to the local food stalls to try nasi goreng (fried rice) and satay (grilled meat skewers) at reasonable prices.
Don’t miss a visit to Uluwatu Temple for panoramic views and traditional dance performances at low prices. Also take a tour of Ubud Village, where you can explore local markets and buy handicrafts and products at good prices.
In the evening, try local foods like laksa (noodle soup) or nasi goreng.
3. Kuala Lumpur – Malaysia
In Kuala Lumpur, you can visit the Petronas Twin Towers for a great view of the city, then wander through the free Kuala Lumpur Bird Park.
For budget dining, head to Jalan Alor to try delicious Malaysian dishes. In the afternoon, visit Batu Khu Temple, and explore the Bukit Bintang area, which contains lively markets and affordable shopping centers. In the evening.
4. Istanbul – Türkiye
In Istanbul, you can visit Hagia Sophia and Sultan Ahmed Mosque for free or at a low cost, then explore the spice market to sample local foods.
Next, visit Topkapi Palace and nearby Gulhane Park, then head to the Beyoğlu neighborhood to try affordable food. In the evening, enjoy Bakirkoy’s waterfront promenade, have dinner at a local restaurant and visit the Grand Bazaar to buy gifts.
5. Hanoi – Vietnam
You can visit the Temple of Literature to experience Vietnamese culture at a low price, then enjoy walking around Hoan Kiem Lake and visit Nguon Son Temple.
Take a tour of the Old Quarter, explore the alleys and markets, and try food at street stalls like pho and banh kew at affordable prices. You can also visit Ba Dinh Park for a relaxing stroll, or go to Tam Coc Park to rent a boat and explore the scenery.
Eat local in the Tai Ho district, where you will find traditional Vietnamese dishes at reasonable prices
6. Seoul – South Korea
Visit Gyeongbokgung Palace to experience Korea’s architectural history, then stroll through the Bukcheon Hanok neighborhood to see traditional houses.
Relax in the free Namsan Park and enjoy the views from Seoul Tower. In the afternoon, shop at Namdaemun Market and taste local foods like tukbokki.
Try international food in the Itaewon area, then enjoy cheap restaurants in the Hongdae district. In the evening, have dinner in Myeongdong and explore the night markets.
7. Belgrade – Serbia
In Belgrade, families can enjoy visiting Belgrade Castle, which offers stunning panoramic views of the city for free. Next, explore the Old Quarter and enjoy a stroll through the city’s historic streets.
Visit the Nikola Tesla Museum, which offers affordable admission and displays the famous scientist’s innovations. For an affordable local dining experience, head to the small restaurants in the Skadarlija area, where you can sample traditional Serbian dishes such as shaseltic and mish.
Don’t miss the opportunity to relax in the free Tasmagdan Park, and explore the local markets to buy souvenirs at affordable prices. You can also have a good time on the banks of the Sava River, where you can enjoy the landscape and local atmosphere.
8. Quito – Ecuador
You can enjoy a low-cost visit to the old town, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can explore Quito Cathedral and Independencia Square.
Wander the historic streets and admire the magnificent colonial architecture. Visit the Quito Archeology Museum, which offers affordable admission and displays historical pieces of Vietnamese culture.
For a local dining experience at low prices, head to the local markets where you will find traditional Vietnamese dishes such as fajitas and baba (noodle dishes).
Relax in the free Illuminada Park and enjoy the beautiful natural setting. You can also visit Pincha Mountain, which offers wonderful views of the city for a low cost.
9. Marrakesh – Morocco
Marrakesh, the Red City, is a great destination for a rich experience on a budget. You can start by visiting Jemaa El Fna Square, where you will have the opportunity to taste the most famous and delicious Moroccan dishes, such as tagine, couscous and tanjia, from local vendors at reasonable prices.
Afterwards, you can explore the traditional markets filled with handmade products and bright colours.
Don’t miss visiting the Majorelle Gardens, a peaceful oasis in the middle of the city. For history lovers, it is recommended to visit Bahia Palace and walk through the streets of the old city to discover the narrow alleys and historical monuments.
Marrakesh offers an authentic experience without having to spend a lot.
10. Las Palmas – Canary Islands
Las Palmas in the Canary Islands offers a unique blend of nature and culture on a budget. You can start with a tour of the golden beach of Playa de las Canteras, where you can enjoy free swimming and sunbathing.
Next, head to the old town of Vegeta, explore the narrow cobblestone streets and visit the Santa Ana Cathedral. For food lovers, local restaurants offer traditional Canarian dishes such as papas arrugadas with mojo sauce at reasonable prices.
Don’t miss the opportunity to stroll through the Durham Gardens or take a short trip to the volcanic landscape of Bandiama. Las Palmas guarantees you a varied and rich experience without high costs.
11. Mexico City – Mexico
Mexico City combines cultural heritage and vibrant life at prices to suit all budgets. You can start your day with a visit to the historic Zocalo Square, where you can admire the Metropolitan Cathedral and other monuments for free.
Don’t miss the opportunity to taste the famous “taco” from local stalls dotting the streets at cheap prices. Next, take a tour of the Museum of Anthropology, which showcases the history and culture of Mexico in depth.
For art lovers, visiting the home of artist Frida Kahlo in Coyoacán is a great choice to explore her works. You can also relax in Chapultepec Park, one of the largest urban parks in the world, making Mexico City a destination full of discoveries without burdening you financially.
12. Krakow – Poland
Enjoy a tour of the open-air markets and sample traditional Polish foods such as pierogis and zurek from local stalls at bargain prices.
Then head to Wawel Castle, which gives a glimpse into the city’s history at a low cost. Don’t miss the historic Kazimierz district, known for its old streets and traditional cafés.
If you are an art lover, you can visit local museums that offer affordable tickets. You can also relax in public parks such as “Plone Park”, which provides beautiful places for strolling at no additional cost.
13. Cappadocia – Türkiye
Cappadocia in Türkiye is one of the family destinations on a budget that provides unforgettable experiences on a limited budget.
Families can enjoy a hot air balloon ride. Afterwards, explore cave villages like Goreme, where you can visit historic cave houses and have a traditional lunch at low prices.
Families can also visit local museums and archaeological sites such as the Valley of Love and the Valley of Roses, which provide great hiking and photography opportunities without a huge expense.
Don’t forget to try the local cuisine by visiting the small restaurants in the area, where you can taste delicious Turkish dishes at a reasonable budget.
14. Ljubljana – Slovenia
It is a great family destination that offers fun experiences on a limited budget. Families can enjoy a tour of the Old Town, where they can visit Ljubljana Castle, which overlooks the city and offers stunning views at a low cost.
Afterwards, stroll along the Ljubljana River and explore local markets and affordable cafes. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit Tivoli Park, a wonderful green space for picnics and free family activities.
You can also try traditional Slovenian food in small restaurants that offer delicious dishes at reasonable prices.
15. Athens – Greece
Athens, the capital of Greece, you can visit the Acropolis with your family, and explore historical monuments such as the Parthenon with affordable tickets.
Next, stroll through the picturesque Plaka district, where you can discover narrow alleys and traditional cafés serving delicious Greek dishes at affordable prices such as souvlaki and massaqa.
Do not miss also visiting the large Zappeion Park, which is an excellent place for picnics and free family activities. You can also have a good time at Monastiraki Market, where you can buy souvenirs at low prices.
16. Kochi – India
You can start the day with a visit to the Kochi Museum to explore the city’s history and traditional arts at low ticket prices. Next, head to the Kochi Floating Market where you can buy spices and nuts at cheap prices and taste the local crab curry.
After lunch, spend a fun time in “Finnik Park”, which offers spacious areas for free walking and relaxation. You can also enjoy a tour around Fort Kochi to experience the historical atmosphere of the city.
17. Valencia – Spain
Valencia is an amazing tourist destination that contains a variety of places to visit. When you arrive, visit the “City of Arts and Sciences”, where you can enjoy the amazing architectural design and visit scientific and interactive exhibitions at a reasonable cost.
Then, immerse yourself in Spanish culture by strolling through La Pola Market, where you can taste the famous Paella Valencia, which reflects authentic Spanish culinary traditions.
Then move to “Turia Park”, a wonderful park that was transformed from a river into a wonderful green space, where you can enjoy picnics and family activities for free.
End your day with a tour of Malvarrossa Beach, which offers an opportunity to relax and explore the beauty of the Mediterranean at no additional cost.
Valencia, with its heritage and rich culture, provides families with an enjoyable and diverse experience.
18. San Salvador
If you want to explore a city that combines rich culture and unique experiences on a budget, San Salvador, El Salvador is the perfect destination.
Start your day with a visit to the Salvadoran Art Museum, where you can discover local artwork at a low cost.
After that, stroll through the “Santa Teresa Market”, which displays handicrafts and local products, where you can taste traditional Salvadoran dishes such as “burritos” and “paposas” at reasonable prices.
Then, have fun at Bosque Park, where children can play in the green spaces and enjoy free activities.
At the conclusion of our exploration of 18 family destinations on a budget, we find that each destination offers a unique experience that combines culture, history and nature, allowing families to enjoy enjoyable holidays without having to spend a lot.
Choosing family destinations on a limited budget guarantees you a rich and affordable travel experience at the same time.
