Winter doesn’t have to mean high prices and cold weather. If you’re looking for a sunny escape that won’t stretch your budget, these destinations offer warm temperatures, low daily costs, and plenty to see and do. From ancient cities to tropical islands, each one delivers strong value for travelers chasing the sun without the luxury price tag. Check out these great destinations for more inspiration.
1. Bagan, Myanmar
Bagan takes first place as the best warm winter destination. Winter temperatures reach 32°C (90°F) here, matching the warmth of tropical beaches while daily costs stay just under $100. The ancient city has 62 affordable attractions, from temples to cultural sites. Tourists here also leave good reviews of the local hotels, rating them with 9/10 points after checkout.
2. Granada, Nicaragua
Granada comes in second with daily costs at just $66. The city maintains temperatures around 31°C during winter and provides access to 241 budget-friendly attractions, nearly four times more than Bagan. Travelers have 17 hotels to choose from, all under budget prices, with properties averaging 8.6 ratings. The city sits near Lake Nicaragua, with water temperatures at 27°C, warm enough for swimming year-round.
3. Bali, Indonesia
Bali ranks third, showing 2,641 hotel listings under $100 per night. The Indonesian island records winter temperatures of 90°F, tied with Bagan for the warmest air in the top 10. Bali’s ocean also reaches nearly 30°C (86°F) in winter, which is the highest water temperature among all ranked cities. The island offers 2,000 free or budget-friendly things to do, from temples to beaches to cultural sites.
4. Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Ho Chi Minh City takes fourth place with temperatures holding steady at 32°C throughout the winter months. The Vietnamese city provides 452 budget-friendly attractions and 1,818 hotels under the daily budget, giving travelers plenty of choices. Daily costs run $84, slightly higher than Bali but still leaving room in most travel budgets.
5. Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Phnom Penh rounds out the top five with winter temperatures around 31°C and a daily spending of just $69, one of the lowest costs in the top 10. The Cambodian capital has 201 attractions that fit tight budgets, from historic sites to markets to riverside areas. Travelers can pick from 124 hotels at affordable prices, with properties averaging 7.3 ratings. The nearby water also stays warm at 27°C.
6. Ambergris Caye, Belize
On this Caribbean island just off the coast of Belize, you’ll find warm winter weather and a budget‑friendly atmosphere. According to travel guides, this time of year falls within the dry season, offering ideal conditions for beaches and outdoor activity. Why I like it: the English‑speaking environment makes planning easy, and you’ll get that tropical‑sun vibe without the sticker‑shock. One budget traveller mentions being able to do Belize for about $90 a day. Hotels on Ambergris Caye run higher (average ~US $130 for 3‑star).
7. Hoi An, Vietnam
This charming riverside town offers warm winter weather, rich culture, and excellent value. In recent travel‑value rankings it’s highlighted as one of the best value long‑haul destinations. Why I like it: Combine beach time with old‑town exploring, enjoy inexpensive meals and accommodations, and escape the cold in style—without overspending. Estimated daily cost: ≈ US $30–60 for budget travellers; mid‑range around $50–80.
8. Mérida, Yucatán, Mexico
Mérida’s warm winter climate and affordability make it a smart addition to your list. It’s frequently cited among affordable Latin‑American winter‑sun destinations. Why I like it: you’ll get rich cultural experiences—colonial streets, local cuisine, Mayan ruins—paired with winter sunshine and budget‑friendly prices. Estimated daily cost: ≈ US $40–60 for true budget; up to ~US $90–100 mid‑range.
Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited over 75 countries. Her work has been published in numerous guidebooks, websites, and magazines.