Ah, retirement! The golden years when you can finally kick back, relax and wonder how on earth you’re going to afford that dream vacation. After you budget out your monthly expenses to better battle the rising cost of living, dwindling Social Security and skyrocketing real estate, make sure you set some of your nest egg aside to truly lean into a life of leisure.
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Fear not, fabulous seniors! GOBankingRates has scoured the globe to find some wallet-friendly wanderlust spots that’ll have you packing your bags faster than you can say “early-bird special.” Whether you are looking for big city energy packed with a rich history, sprawling golf courses or just want to take in the natural beauty of a national park, retirees can enjoy it all.
Here are five fabulous getaway choices for retirees that won’t break the bank.
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Lisbon, Portugal
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Estimated average one-week trip for two people: $2,656
Who says you can’t have your pastel de nata and eat it too? Lisbon’s charm comes with a side of affordability that’ll make your retirement fund breathe a sigh of relief.
This city truly has it all: world-class architecture, restaurants, cafes, and historical attractions — all of which can be experienced on the cheap, and filled with enough food and port wine to make you forget you ever worried about your 401(k).
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Chiang Mai, Thailand
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Estimated average one-week trip for two people: $813
Chiang Mai is a special place, and one you can experience without going broke. You’ll explore and have easy access to ancient temples, slurp on mouthwatering street food and immerse yourself in endless culture.
Budget around $800 for a week of Thai bliss for two. Just remember — everyone you know is going to want a fun souvenir, so make sure to include that in the budget!
Mexico City, Mexico
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Estimated average one-week trip for two people: $2,809
Mexico City is an ideal travel spot for retirees on a budget. It’s got everything you need: Rich culture, amazing food and luxe accommodations — all at extremely affordable prices.
Set aside about $1,400 per person for a week of adventure for two. That includes enough tacos to make your grandkids jealous — trust us, they will be.
Split, Croatia
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Estimated average one-week trip for two people: $2,020
Want to feel like you’re living in “Game of Thrones,” minus the dragons? Split’s got you covered. This Adriatic gem has beaches, ruins and some of the best food in the game.
A week for two will run you about just over $2,000, including enough Croatian wine to make you fluent in the local language.
Oaxaca, Mexico
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Estimated average one-week trip for two people: $679
If your idea of retirement involves more mezcal than medicine, Oaxaca’s calling your name. This cultural hotspot is a feast for the senses, from its colorful markets to its mouthwatering mole.
You and your better half can live it up for a week on a few hundred bucks. That includes accommodation, food and enough artisanal crafts to make your living room look like a Mexican bazaar.
Caitlyn Moorhead contributed to the reporting for this article.
Editor’s note: All trip estimates sourced via Budget Your Trip and are accurate as of Jun. 6, 2025.
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 5 Cheapest Travel Destinations for Retirees This Season
