Lonely Planet's Top 10 Best Value Travel Destinations for 2014
In challenging economic times, Lonely Planet experts recommend traveling more, not less—but choose destinations wisely. These handpicked spots deliver exceptional value, ensuring your wallet stays happy while you create lifelong memories.
Greek Islands
View of Navagio Beach, also known as Shipwreck Cove, on Zakynthos Island. Image by Dave Porter Peterborough Uk / Photolibrary / Getty Images.
Greece has faced economic challenges, including austerity measures, high unemployment, and protests that have made global headlines. As a tourism-dependent nation—welcoming everyone from partygoers on sun-kissed islands to culture enthusiasts—it has responded by lowering prices to attract visitors. With fewer crowds at popular sites, 2014 presents remarkable value for exploring ancient wonders and idyllic beaches.
Italy’s Heel
Old fortified farmhouse in Puglia, Italy. Image by Michele Galli / E+ / Getty Images.
Italy's glamorous spots like the Amalfi Coast and Venice can strain budgets. Head south to Puglia, Basilicata, and Calabria—Italy's heel—for some of the nation's finest beaches, hilltop villages, and ancient sites. Beyond affordability, enjoy cucina povera (simple, flavorful peasant cuisine), a laid-back vibe even in peak season, and accommodations suited to every budget.
Nicaragua
Howler monkeys are among Nicaragua's wildlife highlights. Image by Richie Diesterheft. CC BY 2.0.
Costa Rica is wonderful but pricey and crowded. Nicaragua offers true affordability alongside top-tier Central American appeal, from the majestic Volcán Concepción to serene floats on the Río San Juan. Budget travelers can thrive on $20 USD daily (still feasible), with some of the Caribbean's cheapest beach stays and diving—though Corn Islands flights add cost.
Bulgaria
The dazzling domes of Bulgaria's Rila Monastery. Image by Anita Isalska / Lonely Planet.
Eastern Europe's popular cities have seen price hikes with tourism booms. Bulgaria remains underrated, with gems like Plovdiv and Varna beyond Sofia. Avoid Black Sea summer crowds for value; enjoy affordable transport, museums, and private rooms ('Zimmer frei' signs). Iconic Rila Monastery is free, with simple pilgrim lodgings.
Portugal
Making a splash on one of Portugal's surf-friendly shores. Image by SayLuiiiis. CC BY-SA 2.0.
The British Post Office's latest survey ranks Algarve's Albufeira as Europe's cheapest family summer resort. Portugal excels for budget travelers: Lisbon's coffee and pastries cost pennies, trams are inexpensive, and world-class surfing is accessible without long-haul flights for Europeans.
Fiji
Swimming in crystal-clear waters in Fiji. Image by Island Effects / E+ / Getty Images.
South Pacific paradise on a budget? Fiji delivers with backpacker-friendly Yasawas and Mamanucas resorts. Not Southeast Asia cheap, but ideal for mid-range travelers: island-hop via catamaran, bus around Viti Levu, and savor Polynesian vibes affordably.
Mexico
El Castillo at Tulum, Mexico. Image by Aaron Logan. CC BY 2.0.
Skip luxury resorts; Mexico shines for savvy explorers. Score cheap flights, avoid peak times like U.S. school holidays. North of Puerto Vallarta, spots like Chacala offer $40 USD guesthouses. In Yucatán, budget buses to Mérida and Tulum unlock Mayan sites cheaper than Cancún tours. Seek palm-thatched cabañas at beaches.
Karnataka, India
The intricate archways of the Maharaja Palace of Mysore. Image by Tuul / Robert Harding World Imagery / Getty Images.
India remains a budget haven, despite peak-season Goa crowds. Opt for neighboring Karnataka: tranquil beaches, fishing villages, serene resorts, and temple towns like Hampi. Lodging is cheap, most sites free, with upscale options emerging.
Palawan, the Philippines
A boat ride around dramatic limestone cliffs in Palawan. Image by Jerick Parrone. CC BY-SA 2.0.
Palawan's jungles, cliffs, and beaches draw adventurers. Highlights like Puerto Princesa Subterranean River and Bacuit Archipelago offer great value. Extend to Calamian Islands, inspiration for The Beach. Note May-October monsoons with afternoon rains.
Ethiopia
Man emerging from a rock-hewn church in Lalibela. Image by Stuart Butler / Lonely Planet.
Not every corner fits $30 USD daily, but affordable flights along the Historic Route reveal Lake Tana monasteries, Blue Nile Falls, and Lalibela's rock-hewn churches. Organized tours suit remote areas; budget hotels (newer ones best) abound for value seekers.
Plan your dream travels with Lonely Planet's Best in Travel 2014—the definitive guide to the world's top destinations.
