Travel and save money? These are the cheapest travel destinations in 2026

Cheap Destinations 2026: These destinations offer great experiences at a low price.

When it comes to travel, the journey is not the destination for most people. Above all, it should be beautiful at the destination – the destination that you have often imagined, researched and finally booked months in advance. Maybe the hotel was even a real bargain, but everything else can rarely be planned so precisely in advance. And then suddenly the cappuccino on the corner costs eight dollars, or the yoga class against jet lag forty. These are currently quite realistic prices in New York City. How are two weeks here without an overdraft facility supposed to work at all?

Travel cheaply – even after booking

One lesson from such experiences is that it is worthwhile to choose destinations not only according to dream factor, but also according to value for money. Especially because, conversely – at a cheap holiday destination – it feels all the better to spend less than at home. And even those who make a conscious decision in the end in an expensive metropolis travel with realistic expectations and avoid unpleasant surprises.

This is how different prices can be

In addition, price differences between destinations are expected to become even more pronounced in 2026, driven by inflation, fluctuating exchange rates, rising energy prices – and last but not least – personnel costs. While some regions specifically entice with cheap offers, elsewhere prices continue to climb – especially in hotspots with high demand or limited hotel capacities.

"What's the damage?" ("What's the damage?"), Americans jokingly ask when the bill comes. To ensure that you don't suffer any unpleasant financial surprises on your next trip, we have taken precautions:

These are the cheapest – and most expensive travel destinations – in 2026

#1 Portugal – sun, sea and savings potential

Das Tor zum Urlaubsglück: Praia dos Estudantes bei Lagos.

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Portugal remains one of the destinations with the best value for money in Europe in 2026. According to Cents of Adventure, a day of holiday in the Algarve costs an average of 60–80 US dollars (approx. 50–70 euros) – including accommodation, food and transport. The combination of Mediterranean climate, culinary diversity and comparatively low ancillary costs is particularly attractive. Even in popular places like Lagos or Faro, you can find cheap guesthouses and local restaurants that are easy on the wallet. Those who travel outside the summer months also benefit from lower flight and rental car prices.

#2 Thailand – Classics with cheap variety

Wandgemälde in einem Tempel in Pai.

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Pagode in der Altstadt von Chiang Mai.

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According to the British financial platform Hello Safe, Thailand continues to be one of the cheapest long-haul destinations in the world. Average daily costs here are only around 45 euros, including hotel, street food and public transport. Especially in the north, for example in Chiang Mai or Pai, overnight stays can be found for less than 20 euros - often with pool and breakfast. Despite increased airfares, Thailand remains a paradise for budget-conscious travelers due to its wide range of accommodation and excellent tourist infrastructure.

#3 Colombia – South America's insider tip

Historisches Zentrum von Cartagena.

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If you are looking for sun, beach and culture off the beaten track, Colombia is a very attractive price-performance ratio. According to online magazine The Manual, the average daily spending for travelers is 50-60 euros, while cities like Medellín or Cartagena offer charming boutique hotels and exciting gastronomy at a fraction of European prices. New direct flights from Europe (for example from Iberia and KLM) are also making the country more and more accessible - a truly hot tip for 2026. 

The three most expensive travel destinations in 2026

#1 Boston – Luxury with a price tag

Neue, alte Welt: Verwinkelte Gassen in Boston.

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According to Cheaphotels.org, Boston is currently the most expensive city in the world when it comes to hotel accommodation. A centrally located double room with three stars costs an average of around 375 US dollars (about 325 euros) per night. The reasons for this are the limited hotel capacity, high demand from business trips and educational tourism (Harvard, MIT) as well as a generally expensive price level in New England. Even simple meals can quickly cost $30 and more.

#2 New York City – The classic of high-price destinations

Shön teuer: Skyline von New York City

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In 2026, New York City will remain one of the most expensive places for tourists. An average of 340 US dollars (about 295 euros) per night for a mid-range hotel, plus high ancillary costs: a coffee for eight dollars, a cocktail for 25 dollars and even subway rides cost significantly more than in European cities. Nevertheless, New York remains a destination of longing – if you want to save money, you should switch to districts such as Queens or Brooklyn and book early.

#3 Zurich – Swiss precision has its price

Traditionelle Boots am Limmat.

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Die St.Peter-Kirche in Zürich.

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Zurich regularly ranks among the most expensive cities in Europe. With around 220 francs (about 236 euros) per night, according to Cheaphotels.org, and a high cost of living, the Swiss metropolis is one of the most expensive travel destinations in the world. Restaurant prices and leisure activities are particularly important: a dinner can easily exceed 100 francs (about 108 euros). If you still want to travel, you can save money in the low seasons, hostels or day trips to cheaper regions (for example to Lucerne or the Bernese Oberland).

Price development in 2026: upward trend

It remains exciting: In classic tourist centres such as the popular Mediterranean islands and major cities, prices for hotels and services are likely to rise again in 2026 – driven by high demand, rising energy and personnel costs and capacity shortages. Long-haul travel also remains expensive: According to forecasts, average hotel rates globally will increase by around 1.2% and airfares by around 0.4% compared to 2025, according to the travel portal Hospitality Today.

Here the prices go down

Particularly exciting: Some places could have real savings potential in 2026: The travel comparison portal Kayak, for example, reports that prices for vacation trips in Asia were -11%, in Europe -8% and in Africa -5% below the previous year's level. Regions with new flight connections or low demand could bring even cheaper offers in 2026 – such as destinations with overcapacity, a weak dollar or new low-cost connections.

So if you book cleverly this year, you have advantages: early booking, price alerts, flexible fares and alternative airports help to secure the best deal. In addition, the choice of the duration of the trip, the type of accommodation or the region (low season instead of high season) can significantly influence the price. So let's start planning your holiday - and don't forget to dream!