The cheapest places to travel in spring

Spring is a great time to travel, whether you want to catch some sun, go mountain hiking, explore history and culture, or enjoy some last-minute snow activities. If you're looking to satisfy your wanderlust on a budget, check out this list of some of the cheapest places to travel in spring.

1. For a spa experience: Budapest, Hungary

Where better to sweat out the last bits of winter than a city with more than a hundred spas, each with its own unique style?

The best is Rudas, a sixteenth-century Ottoman-style spa with a beautiful octagonal pool under a glass dome. While here, don't forget to visit the rooftop heated pool with a wonderful view of the Danube.

No visit to Budapest would be complete without stopping at neo-baroque Széchenyi, the largest of the city’s spas. Here you’ll see locals combining a hot bath with a game of chess.

A ticket can cost as little as €10, and a 20-minute massage around €15. Cool down after a steamy soak by trying one of the many delicious craft beers available. In the capital, this will only cost around €1.50.

Afterwards, go for coffee and calorie-rich Dobos torta (Hungarian sponge cake). Accommodation isn't as good value as it used to be, but you can still find great deals out of town, and public transport for getting into the centre is excellent.

Editor's tip: not set on visiting in spring? Find out why Budapest is the place to enjoy the perfect summer break.

Note: Prices and availability are subject to change, so it's always a good idea to check the latest information before planning your trip.

2. For end-of-season skiing: the French Alps

Skiing is never cheap, but if you wait until the end of the season in Europe and choose somewhere high up and relatively snow-sure, you can find a bargain.

Val d'Isère, Val Thorens, Les Arcs, and La Plagne, with their high-altitude positions, are the resorts to watch. If you book last minute, it’s possible to get a week’s chalet deal for around €475.

Deals often include flights, transfers, breakfast and dinner (with as much wine as you can drink before the coffee arrives), plus afternoon tea and cake waiting for you when you return tired and aching after a day on the slopes.

Editor's tip: snow on your mind? Read up on top skiing and snowboarding destinations.

Note: Prices and availability are subject to change, so it's always a good idea to check the latest information before planning your trip.

3. For a tropical escape: Guatemala

Going on a budget-friendly trip to Guatemala for a tropical escape is a great choice for those looking for adventure, natural beauty, and vibrant culture.

The country has many affordable places and activities that will make your trip unforgettable.

Start by exploring the beautiful Lake Atitlán, where you can find budget-friendly places to stay in the charming towns around the lake.

Dive into the indigenous culture, enjoy breathtaking views, and try activities like hiking or kayaking at a lower cost compared to other tropical spots.

Editor's tip: for more reasons to visit, explore our Guatemala itineraries, check our tips for travelling in Guatemala and read about the best time to visit Guatemala.

Want to be better prepared for your trip to Guatemala? Start by learning things to know before you go.

Update: As of 2023, some towns around Lake Atitlán have seen more tourists, leading to slightly higher prices in places to stay and activities. However, it is still a budget-friendly destination compared to other tropical locations.

4. For warm weather and music: New Orleans, USA

Visiting New Orleans on a budget while still enjoying its amazing music scene is totally possible and promises a memorable adventure. The city offers many chances to enjoy live music without spending too much.

One option is to check out the lively street performances in the French Quarter and other busy neighborhoods. Talented musicians fill the air with their tunes, creating an exciting atmosphere that's completely free to enjoy.

Also, many local bars and clubs offer live music at affordable prices or even with no cover charge on certain nights. Exploring venues along Frenchmen Street, known for its lively music scene, can provide a variety of affordable options.

In recent years, New Orleans has seen more free outdoor music festivals, especially during the spring and fall, giving even more chances to enjoy live music on a budget.

Editor's tip: read up on where to stay in New Orleans.

5. For a beach break: Morocco's west coast

If you’re looking for sunshine and culture, Morocco’s Atlantic coast is perfect. Stay in relaxed, breezy Essaouira and wander along the old narrow streets in the medina. Or explore the souks, occasionally stopping by the city's many art galleries.

While here, spend an afternoon in the busy port and watch the day’s catch being brought in, before treating yourself to a cheap, fresh fish dinner as the sun sets.

If you like to surf, the small fishing village of Taghazout is the place to go. Plenty of shops rent out, sell, and repair boards, plus classes are available from Surf Maroc.

Editor's tip: for more ideas, browse our Morocco itineraries.

In recent years, Essaouira has become a popular spot for digital nomads, which has led to more co-working spaces and cafes with Wi-Fi, making it more appealing for longer stays.

For those planning spring break getaways, Morocco's west coast offers a mix of relaxation and cultural exploration, making it one of the best places to visit in spring.

6. For a city break: Timişoara, Romania

Timişoara is where mass protests started the 1989 revolution that ended Nicolae Ceauşescu's rule. If you think of it as just grey and dull from the communist era, think again.

This city in Romania is a great place to visit with its mix of history, culture, and low costs. Called the "Little Vienna," it has beautiful buildings, lively squares, and a buzzing arts scene. It's also one of the cheapest places to visit in the spring.

Begin your visit by strolling through Union Square, with its colorful buildings and outdoor cafes. Check out the impressive Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral and the Memorial Museum of the 1989 Revolution to learn about the city's history.

In 2023, Timişoara was named the European Capital of Culture, bringing even more cultural events and activities to the city, making it an even more attractive destination for visitors.

Editor's tip: read up on the best things to do in Romania.

8. For street food: Vietnam

Whether you eat it on small plastic chairs by the road, on a motorbike, or on the go, street food in Vietnam is super tasty and cheap.

From a simple bahn mi to more complex dishes, you'll find flavors that pop. Vietnamese food is known for balancing salt and sweet, with a zing of citrus and sometimes a spicy chili kick.

Try bun cha (vermicelli with barbecued pork, dipping sauce, and carrot and green papaya pickle) in the alleys of Hanoi's old quarter. Or enjoy cau lau (soup with thick noodles and meat or seafood) in Hoi An by the coast. You can eat like a king for about £1.

In recent years, Vietnam is getting more attention for its sustainable tourism, with many street food vendors using eco-friendly practices to cut down on waste.

Editor's tip: fine-tune your trip by taking inspiration from our suggested Vietnam itineraries.

9. One of the cheapest places to travel in spring: Albania

Albania might not be on most beach lovers' lists, but it should be. There's lots of empty sand along its beautiful coast. Because there aren't many resorts, prices stay low all year. Plus, it's not crowded with spring breakers.

Spring weather makes Albania a great affordable spring break spot. You'll avoid the scorching summer heat and the cold winter in the mountains.

The Dinaric Alps in the north are perfect for hiking. Known as the "Accursed Mountains," they are anything but: lush valleys lead to high rugged peaks with small villages in between.

You can eat well on a budget, too. A tasty tavë kosi (lamb baked with eggs and yogurt) costs about €3.50.

In recent years, Albania has seen an increase in eco-tourism initiatives, making it an appealing destination for environmentally conscious travelers.

Editor's tip: read up on the best things to do in Albania, and discover things you didn't know you could do here.

Feeling inspired to take a spring break? Check out our guide to the best places to travel in spring 2024 for more ideas.

Want to skip the hassle of planning? Our local travel experts are up-to-date with the latest travel trends and restrictions and can help you out.

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Top image © TB studio/Shutterstock

Looking for cheap places to travel in spring? Discover the cheapest places to visit in March and April, or explore the best places to visit in the spring for unforgettable experiences. Whether you're seeking spring break getaways or simply want to know where to go for spring break, our guide has you covered.