Travel doesn’t have to cost a fortune, especially if you’re a UK backpacker looking for adventure on a budget. The world is full of affordable destinations where you can stretch your pounds while still experiencing incredible sights, unique cultures, and unforgettable experiences. Here are 10 budget-friendly destinations perfect for UK backpackers in 2025, complete with tips on how to keep costs low.

1. Budapest, Hungary

Why It’s Affordable: Budapest is famous for its low-cost food, cheap public transport, and budget accommodation options. The city’s free thermal baths and historic sites make it perfect for exploring without breaking the bank.

• Cost of Flights: £50–£80 (return from the UK).

• Average Daily Budget: £30 (hostel, food, and activities).

• Top Experiences: Soak in the thermal baths, explore Buda Castle, and enjoy cheap ruin bar drinks for under £2.

2. Kraków, Poland

Why It’s Affordable: Kraków is one of Europe’s cheapest cities, offering budget-friendly hostels, affordable street food, and free or low-cost attractions like the Old Town and Wawel Castle.

• Cost of Flights: £40–£70 (return from the UK).

• Average Daily Budget: £25–£35.

• Top Experiences: Visit Auschwitz for a sobering day trip, enjoy pierogi (Polish dumplings), and wander around the Jewish Quarter.

3. Porto, Portugal

Why It’s Affordable: While Lisbon has become pricier, Porto remains a great option for budget travellers. Public transport is cheap, and you can enjoy incredible food and wine without overspending.

• Cost of Flights: £50–£100 (return from the UK).

• Average Daily Budget: £35–£45.

• Top Experiences: Explore Ribeira, taste authentic pastel de nata for under £1, and take a Douro Valley wine tour.

4. Sofia, Bulgaria

Why It’s Affordable: Sofia offers incredible value for money, with affordable accommodation, free walking tours, and cheap meals that rarely exceed £10.

• Cost of Flights: £40–£80 (return from the UK).

• Average Daily Budget: £25–£30.

• Top Experiences: Stroll through Vitosha Boulevard, visit the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, and take a day trip to Rila Monastery.

5. Marrakech, Morocco

Why It’s Affordable: Marrakech is a gateway to North Africa, offering exotic experiences at low costs. Affordable riads, street food, and haggle-friendly souks make this a backpacker’s dream.

• Cost of Flights: £60–£100 (return from the UK).

• Average Daily Budget: £30–£40.

• Top Experiences: Wander through the Medina, take in the sights and sounds of Jemaa el-Fna square, and tour the Atlas Mountains.

6. Prague, Czech Republic

Why It’s Affordable: Although slightly more expensive than it used to be, Prague is still one of Europe’s most affordable destinations. Food, beer, and hostels are cheap, and many of the city’s sights are free.

• Cost of Flights: £40–£70 (return from the UK).

• Average Daily Budget: £35–£45.

• Top Experiences: Walk across Charles Bridge, enjoy a pint of Czech beer for £1.50, and explore the stunning Prague Castle complex.

7. Valencia, Spain

Why It’s Affordable: Valencia combines beach vibes with rich culture at a fraction of the cost of Barcelona or Madrid. Its compact size makes walking easy and saves on transport costs.

• Cost of Flights: £50–£90 (return from the UK).

• Average Daily Budget: £35–£45.

• Top Experiences: Visit the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences, relax on the beaches, and try an authentic paella for under £10.

8. Hanoi, Vietnam

Why It’s Affordable: Although further afield, Vietnam offers incredible value for money. Flights can be pricey, but once there, you can live well for less than £20 a day.

• Cost of Flights: £500–£600 (return from the UK).

• Average Daily Budget: £15–£20.

• Top Experiences: Enjoy pho on every corner, visit Hoan Kiem Lake, and take a day trip to Ha Long Bay.

9. Belgrade, Serbia

Why It’s Affordable: Often overlooked, Belgrade is ideal for budget travellers seeking a lively nightlife, hearty food, and affordable accommodation.

• Cost of Flights: £50–£90 (return from the UK).

• Average Daily Budget: £25–£30.

• Top Experiences: Take a stroll along the Danube, explore the Kalemegdan Fortress, and party in a floating nightclub on the river.

10. Istanbul, Turkey

Why It’s Affordable: Istanbul offers a mix of Europe and Asia on a budget. The food is cheap, public transport is efficient, and many attractions are free or very inexpensive.

• Cost of Flights: £70–£100 (return from the UK).

• Average Daily Budget: £30–£40.

• Top Experiences: Visit the Blue Mosque, haggle in the Grand Bazaar, and enjoy a Bosphorus cruise for less than £10.

Budget Travel Tips

1. Book Flights Early: Use tools like Google Flights or Skyscanner to find the cheapest tickets.

2. Choose Hostels or Budget Hotels: Sites like Hostelworld are perfect for finding affordable accommodation.

3. Take Public Transport: Skip taxis and opt for buses, trams, or metros.

4. Eat Like a Local: Head to markets, street vendors, and affordable local cafes.

5. Join Free Walking Tours: Many cities offer free tours (with optional tips) to explore on a budget.

Summary

Backpacking on a budget doesn’t mean compromising on amazing experiences. From the cobblestone streets of Kraków to the bustling souks of Marrakech, there are countless destinations where UK travellers can explore without emptying their wallets. With a little planning and a sense of adventure, you can make unforgettable memories while keeping costs low.

Where will you go in 2025? Let us know in the comments below!