5 Mistakes People Make When Booking European Trips
July 17, 2025
Your Dream Holiday Doesn’t Have to Break the Bank
We’re already deep into 2025 and if you’ve been working hard or simply need a change of pace, now’s the perfect time to plan a memorable escape for under £1,000. From the vibrant souks of Marrakech to the turquoise waters of Zanzibar, we’ve curated a list of 10 budget-friendly destinations that promise rich experiences, cultural immersion and Instagram-worthy moments, all without stretching your wallet. And with LYBL’s travel guides and custom travel itinerary services, planning your dream trip to any of these locations has never been easier. Ready to pack your bags? Let’s dive in!
(1) Marrakech, Morocco: A Sensory Adventure
Marrakech is the perfect mix of colours, scents and sounds, perfect for a budget city break. Enjoy the buzz of Jemaa el-Fnaa square, shop for treasures in the souks, or sip mint tea in a riad courtyard.
Getting there is budget-friendly with low-cost airlines like Ryanair and EasyJet and global flight tools like Skyscanner. Accommodation is equally affordable, with hostels and traditional riads starting around £20 per night. Once you arrive, enjoy £3 tagines, explore the lively souks and take easy day trips to the Atlas Mountains.
Tip: For a more relaxed experience, visit the medina early in the morning. It’s quieter, cooler and perfect for soaking up the atmosphere. Stay at Riad Dar Anika for authentic charm at a great price, or join a small group tour with Intrepid Travel for a smooth, well-guided introduction to the city.
(2) Budapest, Hungary: Thermal Spas and Historic Charm
Budapest is Europe’s budget travel gem, blending history, culture, and relaxation. Soak in the iconic Széchenyi Thermal Baths, cruise the Danube River, or explore Buda Castle. Accommodation ranges from £15 to £30 per night in budget hostels or cosy Airbnb stays.
You can enjoy goulash for just £5, join free walking tours around the city’s historic quarters, or spend your evening hopping through the city’s iconic ruin bars.
Tip: For something different, unwind at one of the city’s thermal baths, but go early or late to avoid crowds and get the best deals. Stay at Pal’s Hostel for a central location, or book a river cruise with Legenda Cruises for postcard-perfect views of Budapest by night.
(3) Istanbul, Türkiye: Where East Meets West
Istanbul offers a rich tapestry of culture, history and modern city life for the price of a weekend in Paris. Visit the Hagia Sophia, shop in the Grand Bazaar, or enjoy Turkish tea by the Bosphorus.
Istanbul has great value for budget travellers, with international flights often priced under £100 from major cities, especially when booked in advance or during airline promos. Accommodation is equally affordable, with budget hotels and hostels starting around £25 per night.
From £2 street kebabs to free mosque visits and buzzing local markets, the city delivers rich culture without the high price tag.
Tip: For a truly local experience, skip the tourist cruises and hop on a public Bosphorus ferry. It is scenic, affordable and used by locals daily. Stay at Cheers Hostel for a social, centrally located stay, or book a food tour with Istanbul on Food for an unforgettable dive into Turkish cuisine.
(4) Zanzibar, Tanzania: Tropical Paradise on a Budget
Zanzibar’s white-sand beaches and turquoise waters feel like a luxury escape, but it’s surprisingly affordable. Flights from major cities can start around £350 return, especially if booked early. Guesthouses in Stone Town or beachfront bungalows typically range from £20 to £40 per night, making it possible to enjoy island luxury on a budget.
Snorkel the clear waters of Mnemba Atoll, take a guided spice tour, or feast on fresh seafood for just £5. To help you make the most of your time, our custom travel itinerary services can design a trip that blends sun-soaked beach days with authentic cultural experiences, from exploring fishing villages to discovering hidden gems beyond the usual tourist spots.
(5) Cairo, Egypt: History Meets Modern Buzz
Cairo is a treasure trove of ancient wonders and vibrant city life. Take in the Pyramids of Giza, explore the Egyptian Museum, or stroll along the Nile.
Budget hotels and hostels range from £15 to £30 per night, making it easy to explore this historic capital without overspending.
Entry to the pyramids costs as little as £5, and you can fill up on street food like koshari or falafel sandwiches for next to nothing.
A great travel tip? Opt for a local Nile boat ride (called a felucca) instead of tourist cruises; it’s cheaper, quieter and more authentic.
(6) Cape Verde: Off-the-Beaten-Path Island Bliss
Cape Verde’s islands offer sun, sea, and culture without the hefty price tag. Explore Sal’s beaches or Santiago’s markets. Return flights from many international cities can start from around £250 and you’ll find guesthouses on islands like Sal or São Vicente from just £20 per night.
Try affordable water sports, enjoy Cape Verdean fish dishes for around £4 and immerse yourself in the islands’ vibrant Creole culture. For a smoother experience, our custom travel itinerary services can help you map out an island-hopping adventure that balances relaxation with discovery. Stay at Hotel Morabeza for beachfront charm, or explore beyond the beaches with guided tours.
(7) Singapore: Budget-Friendly City Sophistication
Singapore may seem pricey, but budget travellers can enjoy its futuristic skyline, gardens and hawker centres.
Explore free attractions like Gardens by the Bay, grab hawker-centre favourites for as little as £3 and explore colourful districts like Little India and Kampong Glam. You can stay at The Pod Boutique Capsule Hotel for comfort and style without the steep price tag.
(8) Lagos, Nigeria: Vibrant Culture and Coastal Charm
Lagos is West Africa’s cultural hub, offering beaches, markets, and nightlife. One of Africa’s most vibrant cities, drawing visitors from all over the world, especially during Detty December, when the city explodes with concerts, fashion events, art shows, and nightlife like no other. While Lagos has a reputation for being fast-paced and high-energy, it’s also full of affordable ways to experience the city’s creative pulse.
From bustling local markets to various relaxation spots and diverse cuisine reflecting Nigeria’s many ethnic groups, there’s something new to discover around every corner. Our Lagos travel guide goes beyond the basics, connecting you to hidden hangout spots, up-to-date local events and a curated list of trusted vendors, from photographers and hairstylists to tour guides and fashion stylists.
(9) Bali, Indonesia: Island Paradise on a Shoestring
Bali isn’t just a destination; it’s a feeling. Wake up to the sound of rustling palm trees, sip fresh juice after an early morning yoga session, then spend the afternoon wandering through temples or learning to surf in Canggu, all without needing a luxury budget.
Street food stalls, hidden waterfalls, art markets and quiet rice field walks come together to create a rhythm that’s both energising and grounding. Whether you’re here for stillness or adventure, Bali invites you to slow down, stay present and experience more.
(10) Namibia: Desert Adventures Without the Price Tag
Namibia offers some of the most surreal and peaceful landscapes in Africa: endless desert dunes, otherworldly skies, and roads that seem to stretch forever. From Etosha’s wild plains to the surreal textures of Deadvlei, it’s a land of epic contrast and breathtaking stillness. You don’t need a luxury lodge to experience the magic; self-drive safaris, local meals, and budget lodges make it possible to explore Namibia on your own terms.
Whether you’re camping beneath the stars or spotting wildlife from the seat of your own 4×4, Namibia rewards slow, intentional travel.
Here’s a tip most first-time visitors miss: stop by the town of Swakopmund for a surprising mix of adventure sports, German colonial architecture, and some of the best fresh bread on the continent, a quirky and unforgettable contrast to the desert beyond.
Plan Your Budget Adventure with LYBL
These 10 budget travel destinations prove you don’t need a fortune to explore the world in 2025. From the vibrant souks of Marrakech to Namibia’s otherworldly deserts, each spot offers unique experiences that fit your budget and fuel your wanderlust. At Live Your Best Life Global, we’re here to make your travel dreams a reality with our travel guides and custom travel itinerary services, designed to save you time and money while uncovering hidden gems.
Travel well. Spend less. Live your best life.
Follow us on Instagram and TikTok for travel inspo, tips, and budget hacks.
