I’m a Travel Expert: 6 Top Destinations for Retirees on a Budget in Late 2025
Written by
Sean Bryant
Edited by
Jenna Klaverweiden
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Are you looking for a top travel destination? Whether you need fresh scenery or are looking to explore unique locations, finding a budget-friendly destination can seem like an impossible task, especially if you’re a retiree on a fixed income.
The good news is there are plenty of places you can visit on a budget, even for last-minute travel bookings. Here are six travel destinations for retirees on a budget in late 2025.
Also see 10 vacations that need to be on every middle-class retiree’s bucket list.
Portugal
Portugal is rich in history and culture. With countless historic cities, like Lisbon and Porto, there are endless activities and sights to see. Portugal also has a variety of beaches if you prefer to lounge around. The average person spends $193 per day visiting Portugal, per Budget Your Trip.
Portugal is one of Europe’s best retiree destinations,” said Sarah Silbert, managing editor of Points Path. “You get food and wine on par with Spain and France at lower prices, and Lisbon (great custard tarts and hilly scenery), Cascais and Madeira all stay much milder than Northern Europe as winter sets in.”
Orange Beach, Alabama
Orange Beach is popular for fishing, but if that isn’t your thing, there are plenty of white sandy beaches to fill your days. Orange Beach is also a great destination if you plan on driving, not flying. The average daily cost of visiting Orange Beach depends on where you stay and what attractions you see. However, the average daily lodging cost is between $323 and $602, according to Budget Your Trip.
“Gaining popularity as an alternative to Florida Beaches, as it offers cheaper accommodations and activities along sandy beaches and clear water coasts,” said Fiorella Yriberry, a travel expert at RVshare.
Key West, Florida
Key West is a laid-back town known as the home of key lime pie. This location offers a variety of activities, from art galleries and festivals to beautiful beaches and a buzzing restaurant scene. Budget Your Trip noted that the average daily cost per person for a trip to Key West is $832.
However, this cost can easily be lowered by booking affordable lodging.
Panama
Panama is nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and Pacific Ocean and is known for its biodiversity and rainforests. If a peaceful and serene trip is what you’re looking for, Panama might be your destination. With unique wildlife, a deep historical culture and diverse landscapes, Panama offers a lot for travelers. It’s also affordable, with the average person spending $93 per day, according to Budget Your Trip.
“Panama has something to offer all types of travelers,” said Cari Mackey, owner of Morrillo Beach Eco Resort. “You can enjoy the history of Casco Viejo, spend the day on the beach or go on a waterfall hike through the jungle. The possibilities are endless.”
Southeast Asia
Southeast Asia is another popular destination for retirees because of the diversity, beaches and jungles. Whether you want to sit and relax by the water or explore the jungle, Southeast Asia has plenty to offer. Many destinations in Southeast Asia are also affordable. Visitors of Laos spend an average of $22.75 per day, while visitors of India spend about $43.80 daily, per Budget Your Trip.
“Retired travelers are flocking to Southeast Asia,” Silbert said. “Most major cities are very foreigner-friendly, and you shouldn’t have trouble finding English speakers. Just check the regional weather before you go to avoid the monsoon season.”
Santa Fe, New Mexico
Another great domestic destination is Santa Fe, New Mexico. Santa Fe is infused with Native American, Spanish and Anglo cultures, offering a variety of museums and landmarks. Santa Fe also has a vibrant opera and art life. This is an affordable destination, with visitors spending an average of $190 per day, according to Budget Your Trip.
“A great winter escape destination for retirees looking to explore a historic and art-rich western town,” Yriberry said. “With a wide variety of museums, galleries and festivals (many that offer senior discounts), Santa Fe is easy to enjoy.”
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