Travelling around Asia on a budget? These are the cheapest cities in Asia, based on Price of Travel’s Europe Backpacker Index. It calculates costs based on the best budget sleeping, sightseeing, eating, drinking and public transport options available in each city.
While main hotspots like Hong Kong and Singapore can be notoriously expensive, there’s so many beautiful cities to see where your cash will go that bit further.
The Cheapest Cities to Visit in Asia
1. Hanoi, Vietnam
Average daily cost on a budget: $18.29
Hanoi – the capital of Vietnam – is known for its rich history, busy street life and centuries of French, Asian and Chinese influences all blended into one bustling city.
It’s a wonderful base from which to explore the North of Vietnam, including Halong Bay and Sapa, while also enjoying the comforts of a modern vibrant city.
2. Vientiane, Laos
Average daily cost on a budget: $19.26
Laos has a rich history stretching back 10,000 years and is one of the world’s last remaining Communist states. You can explore ancient temples, climb karst mountains and spot exotic animals like elephants and gibbons. Best of all, the country is untainted by mass tourism.
3. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Average daily cost on a budget: $19.46
Ho Chi Minh City (formerly known as Saigon) in the South of Vietnam is a bustling city of close to 10 million people – packed with great restaurants, bars and mopeds wherever you look.
You’ll find amazing sights around each corner to capture your imagination, from street markets to French-style cathedrals.
4. Yangon, Myanmar
Average daily cost on a budget: $20.02
Yangon is the former capital city of Myanmar, and has become a unique place to see since the country opened to tourists in 2012. The mysterious nation has countless Buddhist temples, friendly people and a rich history. Be sure to order a laphet yay, or Burmese sweet tea.
5. Chiang Mai, Thailand
Average daily cost on a budget: $20.93
This mountain city in northern Thailand is a calm, laid back place. You’ll find hill tribe villages, elephant sanctuaries and busy markets. Chiang Mai is a popular place for digital nomads and has an impressive coffee scene.
There’s also beautiful scenery and waterfalls to explore, all in a super safe atmosphere.
6. Hoi An, Vietnam
Average daily cost on a budget: $21.20
The captivating lanterns in Hoi An and its UNESCO old town and rich yellow walls add a pop of colour to a visit here, while local markets and fishing boats add even more magic. You can chill by the beach, take a boat trip along the river and eat incredible food.
7. Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Average daily cost on a budget: $22.23
After decades of turmoil, Cambodia has burst onto the scene as an emerging destination for tourists who are starting to arrive and enjoy this magical country.
Most people will start their trip in the capital Phnom Penh which is a bustling city with a strong French connection. Plus, it’s one of the cheapest cities in Asia.
Co-founder of Big 7 Travel, Sarah created the company through her passion for championing the world's best food and travel experiences. Before her career in digital media, where she previously held roles such as Editor of Food&Wine Ireland, Sarah worked in the hospitality industry in Dublin and New York. Contact [email protected]
