One-Week Vacation Under $500? 5 Destinations That Actually Work

Can You Really Travel for $500 a Week? Yes – if you’re smart about it. While luxury is out of the question, cultural charm, great food, and unique experiences are totally within reach.this is 2025 edition.

We’ve crunched the numbers using real-time flight data, hostel prices, and on-the-ground expenses. Here are 5 destinations where a $500 one-week getaway is still possible – including flights and accommodation.

1. Sofia, Bulgaria 🇧🇬

Why Sofia? Cheap flights from Europe, insanely affordable restaurants, and beautiful mountains nearby.

• Flights: $100–$150 round trip from many EU hubs

• Accommodation: $15–$25 per night in hostels or Airbnb

• Meal cost: $5 average
  What to do? Explore the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, take a day trip to Rila Monastery, and eat banitsa like a local.
  💡 Pro tip: Free walking tours every day.

2. Medellín, Colombia 🇨🇴

Why Medellín? Cheap once you’re there, spring-like weather all year, and a rising digital nomad hub.

• Flights: $250–$300 from US cities

• Accommodation: $20–$30 per night

• Meal cost: $4–$6
  What to do? Ride the cable cars over the city, take a Pablo Escobar history tour, or explore Comuna 13’s street art.

3. Tbilisi, Georgia 🇬🇪

Why Tbilisi? One of the most underrated destinations in Europe/Asia blend. Wine, mountains, and sulfur baths.

• Flights: $150–$200 from EU

• Accommodation: $12–$18 per night

• Meal cost: $3–$5
  What to do? Visit Narikala Fortress, enjoy a wine tasting, and relax in the city’s iconic hot springs.

4. Da Nang, Vietnam 🇻🇳

Why Da Nang? Beach meets mountains, plus access to Hoi An and Marble Mountains.

• Flights: $300 from US West Coast

• Accommodation: $10–$20 per night

• Meal cost: $2–$4
  What to do? Beach by day, night markets by night, and day trip to the Golden Bridge.
  ✍️ Important: Vietnam eVisa costs ~$25.

5. Sarajevo, Bosnia & Herzegovina 🇧🇦

Why Sarajevo? A fascinating mix of East & West, and one of the cheapest capitals in Europe.

• Flights: $100–$150 from EU

• Accommodation: $15–$25 per night

• Meal cost: $4–$6
  What to do? Visit the old bazaar, ride the Trebević cable car, and walk through history at the Latin Bridge.

🧳 Total Budget Breakdown (Sample):

Small overages may happen depending on flight deals. Use Skyscanner or Google Flights for best rates.

 Final Tips for a $500 Vacation:

• Use Google Flights “Explore” feature.

• Travel with only a backpack – no checked luggage fees.

• Book hostels with free breakfast or kitchen access.

• Walk or use public transport – no Ubers needed.