Ultimate $50 Day Itineraries: Explore 7 World Cities on a Shoestring Budget
Can $50 (or its local equivalent) fund a full day of culture, cuisine, and adventure in major cities? Lonely Planet challenged local experts to craft thrilling one-day itineraries—including meals, transport, and activities—proving budget travel packs a punch. From rooftop cocktails in Singapore to invigorating banyas in Moscow, discover how to maximize every dollar in seven global hotspots.
A 50 Swiss Franc Day in Zurich
Zurich's luxury vibe—think Bahnhofstrasse boutiques and upscale dining—can drain wallets fast. But savvy spending stretches 50 CHF across a full day of scenic views, culture, and bites.
Kick off with a flaky croissant and iced coffee from a U-Bahn station supermarket (Sfr4), then ride the Polybahn funicular (Sfr1.20) to the university quarter. Savor free panoramas from Polyterrasse and explore no-cost museums like Focus Terra. Lunch at a university cafeteria (Sfr11), followed by a stroll through Old Town's medieval houses and churches. Kunsthaus gallery offers free entry Wednesdays.
Evening: Pasta and wine at Tschingg (Sfr17.50 + Sfr6). With Sfr10 left, grab drinks and sweets for a lakeside picnic at Lake Zurich, or catch a free indie concert on Langstrasse and sip craft beer(s).
Claudia Peter is a journalist and traveler based in Switzerland.
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A 3230 Ruble Day in Moscow
Moscow's cosmopolitan energy shines on 3230 RUB for 12 epic hours. Start with global breakfasts at Cookkareku (R336 from discount menu).
Rejuvenate at Sanduny Baths (off-peak R1775): Enjoy a steamy banya and venik twig massage for better circulation. Dry off and visit free contemporary art galleries at Winzavod, a repurposed wine factory.
Lunch at Tsentralny Market: Hearty Georgian at Gamarjoba or veggie at Flora No Fauna (R800). Use leftovers for Moscow Metro rides (R50/trip)—each station a architectural gem.
Andrei Muchnik is a travel and lifestyle journalist based in Moscow.
A 45 Euro Day in Milan
Milan's finance and fashion fame belies its budget potential—45 EUR unlocks icons if planned right.
Brunch at hip Pave: Pastry, sandwich, coffee (10 euro). Head to Duomo's spires and Galleria arches, then snag La Scala bargain tickets (10 euro).
Afternoon in Parco Sempione and Triennial Museum (12 euro) for design lovers. Dinner: Oozy Neapolitan pizza at Gino Sorbillo (10 euro). End at La Scala with a pre-show drink.
Stephanie Ong is a writer and editor living in Milan.
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A 1.2 Million Dong Day in Ho Chi Minh City
1.2 million VND blends culture and luxury in HCMC. Begin at Thien Hau Pagoda in Cho Lon, amid Chinese medicine shops.
Hainanese chicken rice and coconut (100,000d) at Com Ga Dong Nguyen, then scooter (30,000d) to Fine Arts Museum (10,000d) for colonial-era art.
Cappuccino with city views at 50th-floor EON51 (200,000d). Truffle-Wagyu pho at Anan Saigon (300,000d). Finale: Classical concert at Saigon Opera House (450,000d).
James Pham is a writer, editor, and photographer based in Ho Chi Minh City. Follow him @trvlwrtr.
A $50 Day in New York City
Hit NYC's highlights on $50 by skipping pricier spots. Nolita start: Bagel at Black Seed ($3.50), latte at Gasoline Alley ($4.50).
Washington Square Park buskers, then Citi Bike ($12/day) to High Line for art. Bike to Shake Shack burger/fries ($9) in Madison Square Park.
Fifth Ave to Central Park, photo ops at Empire State/Chrysler. Bike through park to Paris Blues jazz ($10 drink), subway home ($2.75), tip the band.
Mikki Brammer is a writer, editor, and photographer based in New York. Follow her @mikkibrammer.
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A S$67.50 Day in Singapore
Despite top expense rankings, S$67.50 captures Singapore's essence. Breakfast set (S$2) at a kopitiam: Kaya toast, eggs, kopi.
MRT Tourist Pass (S$10) to free Botanic Gardens, Chinatown Heritage Centre (S$15), Complex eats (S$2+). Asian Civilisations Museum (S$8). Splurge: CÉ LA VI rooftop cocktail (S$30) with skyline views.
Ria de Jong is a travel writer based in Singapore. Follow her @ria_in_transit.
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A 3500 Rupee Day in Delhi
3500 INR fuels Delhi delights in New Delhi/south. Free Habitat World exhibit, Lodi Garden, street art.
Khan Market's Perch: Bites and Coffee Sangria (Rs1250). Cab to Sunder Nursery (Rs150 + Rs100 entry). Hauz Khas: Coffee/window-shop (Rs350 + Rs150 cab). Piano Man Jazz (Rs1500) or Chandni Chowk feast.
Puneet Kaur Sidhu is a writer and literary critic based in Northern India. Follow her @babesbanter.
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This article was first published in May 2019 and updated February 2020. Prices approximate; check current rates.
