Thanks to recent changes in the tax code, a lot of Americans are grumbling their IRS refund will be smaller than in years past. But you can still stretch that refund check at these budget-minded destinations, where Airbnb bookings average less than $75 per night.
Bologna, Italy
Less touristy than Rome or Venice, Bologna is also less expensive, though it's frequently ranked one of the wealthiest cities in Italy. Visitors flock to the Piazza del Nettuno, the iconic porticos of San Luca, and a pair of leaning towers (the Due Torri, above) that put Pisa to shame. It's also home to the University of Bologna, the oldest university in the West. But it's Bologna's contribution to the culinary arts that is it's greatest calling card—delicious fare from tortellini and tagliatelle to Mortadella and Parmigiano Reggiano cheese.
Busan, South Korea
The second largest city in Korea, Busan is less expensive than Seoul but has plenty to offer outdoorsy types, from gorgeous Haeundae Beach to majestic Geumjeong Mountain, home to a Buddhist temple founded in 678 A.D. Of course it also entices citified hipsters, drawn to the amazing restaurants, breweries and flea markets. A couple can eat well for $35 day.
Lyon, France
Two millennia of history comes meet at the junction of the Rhône and the Saône, home to Roman ruins, medieval and Renaissance cathedrals and a uniquely modern street art scene. Lyon is also the gastronomic capital of France, if not the world, with roast pork, sausage, duck pâté other delicacies awaiting in the city's many convivial bouchons.
Porto, Portugal
Portugal is red hot with budget travelers and this northern coastal city is a smart option, for wine lovers and architecture aficionados, with artisanal shops and cafés crowding the narrow cobblestone streets of the medieval Ribeira (riverside) district. Porto's nickname, "Cidade das Pontes" ("City of Bridges"), comes from the six arches that span the Douro—the most iconic being the Dom Luís I Bridge.
Ottawa, Canada
The U.S. dollar is rising against its Canadian counterpart, making this a great time to visit our neighbor to the north. And Canada's capital city is full of free attractions—strolling down the Rideau Canal, visiting Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica and Parliament Hill and taking in the sights and smells of lively ByWard Market.
Prague, Czech Republic
The U.S. dollar is strong in the Czech Republic—As of March 2019, $1 was equal to about $22.75 Czech Koruna, making Prague a top destination for budget-minded travelers. A ticket to the world-class National Theatre will only run you about $10, followed by a gourmet dinner for two for less than $40.
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