Cheap Places to Travel in Mexico | Just $30 Per Day

Transportation.

How do you get around Mexico on a small budget? Using public transport for travel in Mexico is the best way of saving up on a few coins. You can use the main bus if you travel on a long trip around Mexico. Their seats are comfortable and spacious. It tends to get a bit too cold, so it is always important to bring a sweater for such trips. 

Carpooling is another suitable option for travel in Mexico. It is a bit faster than using the main bus. It offers a great way of meeting with the locals and learning about their culture. A 7-hour bus ride costs approximately $15 to $30, while shorter trips (roughly 2 hours) cost approximately $12.

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Accommodation.

Are you planning for travel in Mexico alone, hostels might just be what you need to help you save up and meet new friends. Mexico has cheap hotels in major towns and cities. If you are traveling alone, you can stay in hostels that are priced up to $10 per night. Couchsurfing is a social network that connects you with locals in your destination. This option allows you to meet locals as well as other travelers. 

Housesitting is another convenient option to consider. You can stay in someone’s home while visiting Mexico by housesitting. You are welcome to stay for free while taking care of the house until the owners return. Camping is an excellent option for those on a tight budget. While on travel in Mexico you’ll find some parts of Mexico, such as the beaches, may allow you to set up camp for free. It is always a good idea to check with management before setting up camp for the night.  Drop by TrustedHousesiters.com to see what is available.

Cheap City Adventures

You can choose to dive into the city and get lost in the colorful urban scenic buildings. You can also choose to join a free walking tour or an inexpensive $14 hop on/off tour to see more of the city. Most of these tours are led mostly by volunteers. This way, you discover the local markets, the street food scene, and great urban architecture. These locations are inexpensive and ideal for budget-conscious travelers.

Oaxaca City Budget Friendly Adventures

Explore the Zócalo (Main Square): Ah, the Zócalo, the beating heart of Oaxaca City. It’s surrounded by jaw-dropping buildings like the Cathedral and Government Palace. And guess what? This vibrant square often hosts free cultural events, street performances, and markets.

Visit the Oaxaca Cathedral: Entrance fees? Pfft, not at the Oaxaca Cathedral! This majestic piece of architecture usually lets visitors in for free. Take your time to appreciate the beauty inside and the religious art that’ll make you go, “Damn, that’s fancy!”

Wander Through Santo Domingo Church: Okay, prepare for some budget-friendly bliss at Santo Domingo Church. Sure, the Cultural Center charges an entrance fee, but fear not! You can still enjoy the church’s glorious exterior and the botanical garden nearby without dropping a dime.

Mercado Benito Juárez: Hold onto your taste buds, because we’re about to dive into the intoxicating world of Mercado Benito Juárez, a.k.a. the central market. Wander around the colorful stalls, breathe in the lively atmosphere, and get ready to try some damn delicious street food. Start with tlayudas, chapulines (yes, actual grasshoppers), and tamales.

Street Food Adventure: Gather ’round, foodies! Oaxaca is a street food paradise, baby. Brace yourself for a flavor explosion by trying out the delectable tlayudas (think large tortillas with toppings that’ll make your taste buds twerk), memelas, and empanadas from the local street vendors. It’s like a budget-friendly culinary journey that’ll make your stomach happy and your wallet even happier.

Free Museum Nights: You want culture without the price tag? Say no more, my frugal friend. Some museums in Oaxaca City play nice and offer free admission on certain days or during specific hours. Check out the schedules for gems like the Rufino Tamayo Museum or the Museum of Contemporary Art. It’s like getting an all-access pass to knowledge and beauty without spending a dime.

Monte Albán Archaeological Site: Okay, here’s the thing: Monte Albán is the archaeological site you don’t want to miss. Sure, there’s an entrance fee, but trust me when I say it’s worth every single penny. However, if you’re really tight on cash, keep an eye out for free or discounted days. 

Puebla Budget Friendly Adventures

Zócalo and Puebla Cathedral: Welcome to Puebla’s main square, the Zócalo! Feel the excitement as you bask in the grandeur of the Puebla Cathedral. Guess what? It won’t cost you a damn dime to enter.

Biblioteca Palafoxiana: Ever wanted to visit one of the oldest libraries in the Americas? Well, buckle up, because the Biblioteca Palafoxiana is waiting for you near the Cathedral. Although they usually charge an entrance fee, keep an eye out for those magical moments when they offer free admission.

Barrio del Artista: Prepare yourself for an artsy adventure in Barrio del Artista, a neighborhood known for its bohemian atmosphere. Let your curiosity guide you as you explore galleries, street art, and keep your eyes peeled for talented local artists creating magic right before your eyes.

Street Food in Puebla: Oh, baby! Get ready to treat your taste buds to the finest street food in Puebla. This city is famous for its mouthwatering Poblano cuisine. Don’t miss out on the legendary chiles en nogada, the scrumptious cemitas (amazing sandwiches), and oh-so-satisfying molotes from the street vendors.

Callejón de los Sapos: Picture this: a charming street filled with antique shops and street markets. That’s Callejón de los Sapos for you. Tempted to buy something? I feel you, my friend, but fear not! You can simply take a leisurely stroll, soak up the vibrant atmosphere, and enjoy the freebies life has to offer.

Capilla del Rosario: Prepare to have your mind blown at the Capilla del Rosario, a chapel known for its jaw-dropping Baroque architecture. This place is often referred to as one of the most beautiful chapels in the Americas, and trust me, it won’t disappoint. Take a moment to marvel at the intricate details, snap some awe-inspiring photos, and remind yourself that beauty doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag.

Parian Market: Venture into the bustling Parian Market near the Cathedral. The colorful array of goods for sale might tempt you, but here’s a secret: you can soak up the vibrant market atmosphere without shelling out a single peso.

Fort Loreto and the Battle of Puebla Museum: History buff alert! Fort Loreto played a pivotal role in the Battle of Puebla, and the adjacent museum brings this epic event to life. Keep an eye out for free or discounted admission days, and immerse yourself in the captivating story of bravery and resilience.

Cerro de Guadalupe: Ready for a breathtaking view of Puebla? Put on your hiking boots (or comfy sneakers, whatever floats your boat) and make your way up Cerro de Guadalupe. The best part? It won’t cost you a single centavo. Feast your eyes on the stunning panorama of the city and the majestic mountains surrounding it. 

Mérida Budget Friendly Adventures

Plaza Grande (Main Square): Start your adventure at Plaza Grande, the heart and soul of Mérida. A magnificent square surrounded by historical buildings? Count me in! Not only can you admire the stunning Mérida Cathedral and the Government Palace, but this square also hosts free events. Oh yes, you read that right. Free events that let you soak in the local vibes without spending a single peso.

Free Cultural Events: Let’s get cultural, shall we? Check the local calendar for free cultural events happening in Mérida. Music performances, dance shows, festivals – you name it. Mérida is a vibrant city, and it frequently blesses us with free cultural activities that are open to the public.

Casa de Montejo: Feeling fancy? Pay a visit to the Casa de Montejo, a historic mansion located right on the main square. Now, there might be an entrance fee, but hold up! Make sure to check if they offer any free days or times for us budget-savvy travelers.

Paseo de Montejo: Time for a leisurely stroll along Paseo de Montejo, a grand avenue adorned with elegant mansions. No need to whip out your wallet here – you can feast your eyes on the stunning architecture without spending a dime.

Lucas de Galvez Market: Ready to immerse yourself in the lively local life of Mérida? Look no further than the Lucas de Galvez Market. Wander through the vibrant market, let your eyes feast on the kaleidoscope of colors from the fresh produce, and oh, did I mention you can sample some affordable Yucatecan street food?

Free Walking Tour: Mérida loves us budget-savvy adventurers so much that it often offers free walking tours of the city. Don’t you just love freebies? Check with local tour operators or tourism offices for schedules and jump on these tours that provide insights into the history and culture of Mérida.

Mayan World Museum of Mérida: Alright, time to dig into the ancient Mayan history and culture. While there’s usually an entrance fee, keep your adventurous spirit high because some museums offer free admission on Sundays or during special events. The Mayan World Museum is a treasure trove of exhibits that will blow your mind.

La Ermita de Santa Isabel: Escape the tourist hustle and bustle and discover the hidden gem that is La Ermita de Santa Isabel. This charming colonial church is tucked away from the main tourist areas, offering serene surroundings and architectural beauty. 

Cuisine in Mexico

I saved the best for the last bit: food! While visiting or traveling in Mexico, the best way of saving up on the budget is by exploring the local cuisine. Several streets around Mexico offer cost-efficient street food. Street food and tacos are on top of the list. Tacos will give you authentic Mexican cuisine. When couch surfing or housesitting, you can choose to cook for yourself. 

Most fresh vegetables and bread can be acquired cheaply from the local markets or large grocery stores in most cities in Mexico. The traditional Mexican breakfast costs about $4 and can cost less than $1 if you prepare it yourself. Lunch with tacos can cost as little as $4 dollars. Dinner with guacamole on the side could cost up to $5.

It is not difficult to travel around Mexico on a budget, choose beforehand the areas you are planning to visit. Use the public transport system and save on food costs by taking advantage of authentic Mexican street food. Happy travels & remember to Travel Till You Drop!