The Cheapest Places Around the World to Visit Each Month in 2018
Choosing your dates carefully could save hundreds on the cost of your holiday. Using data that Booking.com compiled in 2017 we’ve worked out the best value-for-money destinations from January to December. Here’s our guide to bucket list trips that won’t break the bank.
January
Copenhagen, Denmark
January is the most affordable month to visit Copenhagen, when flights and accommodation were 41% less than the most expensive month of the year. This Scandinavian capital is a must-visit for cosy cafés, chic boutiques and award-winning restaurants.
February
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Not only are the days longest during February, but visiting this South American capital was 16% more affordable than the most expensive month of the year. Explore the colourful streets of El Caminito, go market hopping in San Telmo and try tango dancing for starters.
March
Kuta, Indonesia
Avoid peak season while still enjoying warm weather during March, as Kuta was 33% more affordable than the most expensive month of the year. Reconnect with your wild side at the Tegenungan waterfall, ride the waves at Kuta Beach and watch the sunrise from Mount Batur.
April
Zurich, Switzerland
Enjoy Zurich for less, as the Swiss capital was 15% more affordable than the most expensive month of the year. Check out the cool boutiques at Viadukt, take a cruise on Lake Zurich and explore the FIFA World Football Museum for a flavour of this cosmopolitan city.
May
Melbourne, Australia
The weather in May is pleasant, and Melbourne was 22% more affordable than the most expensive month of the year. Take in the views from the 88th floor of Eureka Tower (Australian’s second tallest building), check out the artworks in the National Gallery of Victoria and explore the Royal Botanic Gardens, Melbourne’s urban jungle.
June
Chiang Mai, Thailand
The weather at the start of the off-season is hot and unpredictable, but Chiang Mai was 26% more affordable than the most expensive month of the year. Explore Doi Inthanon National Park, volunteer at the Elephant Nature Park and make your own souvenirs at the Bo Sang Handicraft Centre.
July
Abu Dhabi, UAE
Visiting Abu Dhabi was 46% more affordable in July than the most expensive month of the year. Visit the stunning Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, spend the money you’ve saved on afternoon tea at the Emirates Palace, and soak up the sunshine on Corniche Beach.
August
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
August in Rio was 40% more affordable than the most expensive month of the year. Take the train up Corcovado mountain to visit Christ the Redeemer and enjoy stunning views over the city, check out the Museum of Tomorrow and watch the sunset at Arpoador.
September
Mexico City, Mexico
September in Mexico City was 46% more affordable than the most expensive month of the year. Head to Mexico City’s iconic cultural centre the Museo del Palacio de Bellas Artes, enjoy sundowners at the Miralto bar, and visit Casa Azul, the former residence of renowned artist Frida Kahlo.
October
Auckland, New Zealand
October in Auckland was 16% more affordable than the most expensive month of the year. Visit the Auckland Art Gallery, the biggest art display in all New Zealand and free to enter, go kayaking along the coast and, if you’re a true adrenaline junkie, bungee jump off the Sky Tower.
November
Athens, Greece
Athens is perfect for an Autumnal escape and 31% more affordable than the most expensive month of the year. Take a plunge in the Vouliagmeni Lake – hot springs that stay a balmy 24 degrees all year round – check out the views from Mount Hymettus, and explore Piraeus town to the south.
December
Amsterdam, the Netherlands
December in Amsterdam was 35% more affordable than the most expensive month of the year. Explore the picturesque Jordaan neighbourhood, visit the workplace and residence of renowned artist Rembrandt, and browse the boutiques and cafés in Negen Straatjes.