July is a month that calls for adventure. With the sun shining brightly and the days stretching long into the evening, it’s the perfect time to pack a bag and set off on a summer escape. But as much as I love to travel, I’ve often found myself facing the challenge of finding affordable destinations during peak tourist season. The good news is that there are still plenty of incredible places where you can enjoy a summer getaway without breaking the bank. In this article, I’ll take you on a journey through some of the best cheap places to travel in July, sharing my personal experiences and the emotions these places evoked. What I’ve learned is that summer travel doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag; some of the most memorable adventures I’ve had were in places that are not only affordable but also full of charm, beauty, and excitement.
Discovering Affordable Summer Destinations
July is a popular month for travel, which can sometimes mean higher prices and crowded tourist spots. However, by thinking outside the box and exploring lesser-known destinations, you can still find great deals and enjoy a summer vacation that’s both affordable and unforgettable. In this article, I’ll share some of my favorite cheap places to travel in July, along with tips on how to make the most of your summer adventure.
Portland, Oregon: A Green City with Summer Festivities
One of the first places that comes to mind when I think of affordable July travel is Portland, Oregon. Known for its lush green spaces, vibrant arts scene, and laid-back vibe, Portland is a city that offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and cultural experiences—all at a reasonable price.
One of the most unforgettable experiences I had in Portland was exploring the city’s many parks and gardens. July is the perfect time to visit the International Rose Test Garden, where thousands of roses are in full bloom. As I wandered through the garden, with the vibrant colors and sweet fragrance of the roses surrounding me, I felt a deep sense of peace and joy. The garden is free to enter, making it an ideal spot for budget-conscious travelers looking to enjoy the beauty of nature.
Another highlight of my time in Portland was attending one of the city’s many summer festivals. Portland is known for its lively festival scene, and July is a month packed with events, from music festivals to food and drink celebrations. One of my favorite memories is of attending the Portland Craft Beer Festival, where I had the chance to sample some of the best local brews while enjoying live music and the warm summer sun. The festival offered a fun and affordable way to experience Portland’s vibrant culture, and it left me with memories that I’ll cherish for years to come.
Portland is also a great destination for foodies, with its famous food carts offering a wide range of delicious and affordable meals. Whether you’re in the mood for gourmet sandwiches, fresh seafood, or international cuisine, Portland’s food carts have something for everyone. The city’s food cart culture is not just about convenience; it’s about creativity and community, with each cart offering its own unique twist on classic dishes or innovative new creations.
Mexico City, Mexico: A Cultural and Culinary Adventure
From the green spaces of Portland, my journey took me to Mexico City, a vibrant and dynamic city that offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and culinary delights—all at an affordable price. Mexico City is a place where you can explore ancient ruins, indulge in world-class cuisine, and experience the warmth and hospitality of the Mexican people, all while staying within your budget.
One of the most unforgettable experiences I had in Mexico City was visiting the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site that is home to some of the city’s most famous landmarks, including the Zócalo, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the Templo Mayor. As I wandered through the historic center, with its beautiful colonial architecture and bustling markets, I felt a deep connection to the history and culture of Mexico. The best part? Many of Mexico City’s top attractions are either free or very affordable, making it easy to experience the city’s rich heritage without spending a lot of money.
Another highlight of my time in Mexico City was exploring the city’s vibrant neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and charm. One of my favorite neighborhoods was Coyoacán, a bohemian area known for its colorful streets, lively plazas, and vibrant arts scene. As I strolled through the streets of Coyoacán, with its charming cafes and art galleries, I felt a deep sense of joy and inspiration. The neighborhood is also home to the Frida Kahlo Museum, where you can learn about the life and work of one of Mexico’s most famous artists.
Mexico City is also a paradise for food lovers, with its rich and diverse culinary scene offering something for everyone. From street food to fine dining, the city’s food is both delicious and affordable, making it easy to eat well without blowing your budget. One of my favorite memories is of enjoying a meal at a local taqueria, where I indulged in mouthwatering tacos and fresh guacamole for just a few dollars. Mexico City’s food scene is one of the best in the world, and it’s a place where you can eat like a king on a budget.
Budapest, Hungary: A Historic City with Summer Charm
From the vibrant streets of Mexico City, my journey took me to Budapest, Hungary, a city that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and relaxation—all at an incredibly affordable price. Budapest is a place where you can explore grand palaces, soak in thermal baths, and enjoy world-class cuisine without breaking the bank, making it an ideal destination for July travel.
One of the most unforgettable experiences I had in Budapest was exploring the historic Buda Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers stunning views of the city and the Danube River. As I wandered through the castle’s grand halls and courtyards, with their intricate architecture and rich history, I felt a deep connection to the past. The best part? Entrance fees to many of Budapest’s top attractions are incredibly reasonable, making it easy to immerse yourself in the city’s history and culture without spending a fortune.
Another highlight of my time in Budapest was visiting the city’s famous thermal baths. Budapest is known as the “City of Spas” for good reason, with its many thermal baths offering a relaxing and rejuvenating experience. One of my favorite memories is of soaking in the warm waters of the Széchenyi Thermal Bath, with its grand neo-baroque architecture and soothing mineral-rich waters. As I relaxed in the outdoor pools, with the steam rising around me and the sounds of the city fading away, I felt a deep sense of peace and contentment. Budapest’s thermal baths are a place where you can unwind and enjoy a luxurious experience at a fraction of the cost of a spa day in other European cities.
Budapest is also known for its vibrant summer festivals, and one of the highlights of my time in the city was attending the Budapest Summer Festival. The festival offers a wide range of performances, from classical music and opera to jazz and dance, many of which are free or low-cost. As I watched the performances, with the excitement of the festival in the air and the city’s beautiful architecture as my backdrop, I felt a deep appreciation for the arts and culture of Budapest.
Edinburgh, Scotland: A Cultural Haven with a Rich History
From the historic charm of Budapest, my journey took me to Edinburgh, Scotland, a city that is rich in history, culture, and summer festivities—all at an incredibly affordable price. Edinburgh is a place where you can explore historic castles, wander through beautiful gardens, and enjoy world-class festivals, all while feeling the warmth and friendliness of the Scottish people.
One of the most unforgettable experiences I had in Edinburgh was exploring the city’s famous Royal Mile, a historic street that runs through the heart of the Old Town. As I wandered along the cobblestone streets, with the sound of bagpipes in the air and the stunning architecture of Edinburgh Castle in the distance, I felt a deep connection to the history and culture of Scotland. The best part? Many of Edinburgh’s top attractions, such as the National Museum of Scotland and the Royal Botanic Garden, are free to enter, making it easy to experience the city’s rich heritage without overspending.
Another highlight of my time in Edinburgh was hiking up Arthur’s Seat, an ancient volcano that offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding countryside. As I climbed to the summit, with the wind in my hair and the sun setting over the city, I felt a deep sense of accomplishment and connection to the natural beauty of Scotland. Arthur’s Seat is a place where you can escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the peace and tranquility of nature, all while staying within your budget.
Edinburgh is also known for its vibrant summer festivals, and one of the highlights of my time in the city was attending the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the world’s largest arts festival. The festival offers a wide range of performances, from theater and comedy to music and dance, many of which are free or low-cost. As I watched the performances, with the excitement of the festival in the air and the city’s beautiful architecture as my backdrop, I felt a deep appreciation for the arts and culture of Edinburgh.
Which is the Best Cheap Place to Travel in July?
As my journey through these affordable summer destinations came to an end, I found myself reflecting on the question that had guided my travels: What is the best cheap place to travel in July? The truth is, there is no single answer. Each of the destinations I visited—Portland, Mexico City, Budapest, and Edinburgh—offered its own unique experiences and charm, all at a price that didn’t strain my budget.
For me, the best cheap place to travel in July wasn’t just about finding the most affordable destination—it was about discovering the experiences that resonated with my heart and created lasting memories. It was about the vibrant festivals and green spaces of Portland, the rich history and cultural diversity of Mexico City, the architectural beauty and relaxing thermal baths of Budapest, and the historic charm and world-class arts scene of Edinburgh. Each destination offered something special, something that made my summer adventure not just affordable but truly unforgettable.
Traveling in July doesn’t have to mean spending a fortune. In fact, some of the most meaningful and memorable experiences I’ve had were in places where I could enjoy the simple pleasures of life—strolling through a rose garden, exploring a historic neighborhood, relaxing in a thermal bath, or attending a local festival. These are the moments that stay with you long after the trip is over, and they are what make summer travel truly special.
In the end, the best cheap place to travel in July is the place that speaks to you—the place where you can find your own connection to the world around you, without worrying about your budget. Whether you’re drawn to the green spaces and festivals of Portland, the cultural richness of Mexico City, the historic charm of Budapest, or the vibrant arts scene of Edinburgh, there’s a destination out there that’s perfect for your summer adventure.
This journey was more than just a series of affordable trips; it was a celebration of the diversity and richness of our world, and a reminder that the best travel experiences don’t have to come with a high price tag. These destinations are proof that you can have a rich and fulfilling summer adventure without breaking the bank, and they offer the perfect opportunity to explore, connect, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
