Travelling doesn’t have to break the bank. Discover smart budget travel tips for exploring cities on foot and making the most of every step without overspending.
Who says great travel needs a big budget? Some of the most meaningful travel experiences are the simplest: wandering cobbled alleys, pausing at a quiet square, or discovering a neighbourhood bakery by accident. Walking is not only free, it’s often the best way to experience a new city. In this budget travel city guide, we’ll show you how to explore more, spend less, and unlock authentic experiences with every step. Whether you're heading to Lisbon, Rome, or Berlin, these tips will help you make the most of your journey on a shoestring.
A walking tour is a great way to get some context about the city you’re visiting and put some flavour behind the photos you take. Meanwhile, the key to budget travel is smart planning. So, skip the pricey group tours and opt for self-guided walking tours instead. Apps like MyGuideGuru offer immersive audio tours for a fraction of the price of traditional guides, and you can take them at your own pace, whenever it suits you.
Choose a theme that interests you - classic landmarks, food experiences, or even scandalous city secrets - and explore on your own terms. With GPS and offline maps, you won’t get lost or miss a thing.
One of the perks of exploring on foot? You’ll stumble upon local food spots that are cheaper, and better, than those along the main tourist routes. Pick up street food or visit a neighbourhood bakery for breakfast. These small choices add up to big savings.
Walking also means you can skip public transport or taxis. The longer you walk, the less you spend, while experiencing the city up close. Pack a water bottle, wear comfortable shoes, and you’re set for an adventure that’s easy on your wallet and rich in discovery.
Need a break from walking but want to keep exploring? Parks, gardens, and public squares offer free places to rest while soaking up the local vibe. Cities like Paris and Barcelona are full of green spaces perfect for a budget-friendly picnic.
Markets are another treasure trove. Wander through food halls, flea markets, and farmers' stalls for a feel of local life. Often, browsing is as rewarding as buying.
Our best tip is to visit cathedrals on Sundays. Not only are they open for entry, but if you’re lucky you might catch the organ in action and a sermon being delivered. Museums also often offer free entry on certain days or evenings, and walking early or late in the day helps you avoid crowds (and heat). Research in advance and build your walk around free events or public festivals.
By combining good timing with a self-guided tour, you’ll not only avoid peak hours but also catch the city in a different light, whether it’s sunrise on a quiet street or twilight by the river.
If you plan to explore on foot, staying centrally can save you both time and money. While these areas can be pricier to stay in, you’ll make up the cost by skipping transport. Plus, you’ll have more time for wandering.
Another tip that I personally find it difficult to live by (especially with a toddler), is to carry only the essentials and avoid overpacking. The lighter your load, the farther (and happier) you’ll walk. Bonus: you’ll be less tempted by touristy extras and more focused on the real experience.
Exploring cities on foot is one of the most budget-friendly, rewarding ways to travel. With the right tools, like MyGuideGuru’s self-guided tours, you can dive deep into culture, history, and local life without spending a fortune.
Want more ideas to make your money go further while travelling? Browse our full blog collection or download the app today to start planning your next adventure -one step at a time.
