Oct 21, 2026

4 Cheap and Fabulous Places To Travel That Only Cost You $100 a Day or Less

If you live in a big city, or even a not-so-big one, it can feel like you can barely leave your house for less than $100, let alone travel on that budget.

However, MoneyLion has done some deep diving into a handful of vacation places that are breathtaking, fun, off the beaten path — and yes, you can go to for less than $100 a day.

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It’s time to start racking up stamps on your passport rather than debt with these four cheap and fabulous places to visit on your next vacation.

Cuenca, Ecuador

Cuenca, Ecuador, isn’t just a good deal, but also has everything that some of the other overpriced South American cities have, but for much less. With a small enough central area, tourists will spend less on taxis and tours, allowing more money to be spent on more enjoyable activities.

According to Andre Robles, Amazon cruise and adventure travel specialist at Voyagers Travel Company, “Around $88 can be a realistic daily budget for a solo Cuenca trip once international airfare is no longer a factor.”

Here's a break down of Robles’ daily price estimates.

Lodging: $40
Food: $24
Transportation: $5
Activities: $9
Souvenir or contingency: $10
Total: Approximately $88 a day

“Walking the central historic district, alongside the Tomebamba river and visiting local cultural markets will allow for a greater appreciation of Cuenca and Ecuador’s amazing architecture as well as their world-famous straw toquilla hat. Lunches in Ecuador are generally quiet and inexpensive set menu meals that are a perfect way to continue to support local shops,” Robles explained.

Cozumel, Mexico

Brian Rooney, travel expert and founder of GetCruiseInfo.com. "Affordable travel isn't about finding the cheapest destination — it's about finding places where your money still buys a great experience. Cozumel continues to offer that balance."

Cozumel, Mexico is one of Rooney’s top recommendations, especially for those looking to travel on a budget. “Away from the main tourist strip, it's easy to find authentic local restaurants, inexpensive transportation, beautiful beaches and snorkeling opportunities without spending a fortune,” he said.

Here are Rooney’s daily price estimates for bopping around Cozumel.

Lodging: $35 to $45
Food: $20 To $25
Transportation: $5 to $10
Activities: $20 to $25
Total: Approximately $80 to 105 a day, with many travelers comfortably landing around $90 per day.

Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic

“Puerto Plata is another destination where travelers can comfortably enjoy beaches, local culture and excursions while keeping daily costs well below many Caribbean islands,” Rooney said.

Here are Rooney’s daily cost predictions for Puerto Plata.

Lodging: $35 to $45
Food: $20 to $25
Transportation: $5 to $10
Activities: $25 to $30
Total: Roughly $85 to $110 a day, especially if travelers choose local restaurants and independent excursions.

"Some destinations have become victims of their own popularity. Puerto Plata still offers much of what travelers want from the Caribbean without the premium price tag,” he said.

The Azores, Portugal

Rooney also can’t get enough of this hidden gem. "The Azores feel like a destination that's still rewarding travelers who discover it before it becomes overcrowded,” he said.

Traveling abroad can be crazy expensive, but if you know where to go, you can get similar experiences for half the price tag. “For travelers wanting Europe without Western Europe's typical prices, the Azores offer dramatic scenery, hiking, whale watching, volcanic landscapes and excellent local food at surprisingly reasonable prices, particularly outside peak summer,” Rooney said.

Here are a few costs Rooney estimates for daily expenses.

Lodging: $40 to $50
Food: $20 to $25
Transportation: $15 to $20
Activities: $15 to $25
Total: Approximately $90 to $120 a day, with travelers often staying near the $100 mark outside peak summer.

This article was provided by MoneyLion.com for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal or tax advice.

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Written by

Caitlyn Moorhead

Edited by

Rebekah Evans