10 Affordable Ways to Explore Any City

Last Updated on July 15, 2023 by Tyler

In the world of travel, “The journey is often as important as the destination.” Navigating a new city can be an exciting adventure on its own, but it doesn’t have to break the bank.

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or someone planning their first city tour, here are the cheapest ways to travel to each city while keeping your budget under control. In this age of convenience and connectivity, affordable travel options make it easy to navigate the city even for budget-conscious travelers.

Photo by Timo Volz on Unsplash

Discovering a new city can be an exciting journey filled with unexpected gems and experiences, and it doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Here we present the cheapest ways to get around each city, keeping your adventures full of experiences without breaking the bank.

Finally, city travel passes can provide significant savings by offering unlimited travel on public transport and access to local attractions at a single, affordable price. By using these cost-effective travel methods, you can ensure that your exploration of any city can be rewarding.

Pack your bags and get ready to travel through urban landscapes in the most convenient way. Immerse yourself in the local culture and atmosphere of a city.

#1. Use Public Transportation to Get Around

I took this photo while I was on the subway in New York

Public transportation is one of the most convenient ways to get around any city. From buses, trams to subways and local trains, these options often provide comprehensive coverage of the city at a fraction of the cost of other modes of transportation.

Additionally, using public transportation provides a unique insight into local city life. Using public transportation, such as buses, trains, or subways, can be an inexpensive way to get around the city. Over all many cities offer day or week passes that allow you to ride unlimited times for a flat fee like New York City’s subway system.

#2. Compare Ride-Sharing Service Rates

Photo by Paul Hanaoka on Unsplash

Ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft can be cheaper than traditional taxis, especially if you’re traveling short distances. They also offer the convenience of booking, scheduling and paying on the app.

These services use smartphone apps to connect passengers with drivers in their private vehicles. Simply enter your destination in the app and you’ll be connected with a nearby driver to take you there.

You can see the cost of the trip before confirmation and be able to avoid any surprises. Another benefit of ride sharing services is the ability to share the fare with other users, making the ride even cheaper. Additionally, these services often operate 24 hours a day, so they can be a good option for early morning flights or late evening trips.

#3. Check Out Taxi Rates

Photo by Lexi Anderson on Unsplash

Before ordering an Uber or Lyft, it’s not a bad idea to check the cost for a taxi. There are some websites online that show you the rate of certain taxi services in your area. It doesn’t hurt to check out every option you have available to see who has the most affordable option.

They may be a good option if you are traveling in a group or need to get somewhere quickly. Be sure to negotiate the fare in advance or use a taxi app that offers fixed rates.

#4. Rent A Bike

Photo by Anthony Fomin on Unsplash

Renting a bicycle is a budget-friendly option. Many cities have bike-sharing programs. Cycling allows you to explore at your own pace, take unique routes, and even get some exercise in the process. These programs work with your phone.

This can be either an app you download from your Appstore or a mobile web browser. When renting a bike, you will be charged for the total time of the rental. Remember to make sure to keep track of time when renting a bike so you can stay within your budget.

#5. Rent Out an Electric Scooter

Photo by Nik on Unsplash

When traveling around a city you might notice many electric scooters on the sidewalks of different streets or others using a scooter. Electric scooters are a fun, fast and cost-effective way to travel around a city.

You will have to download the app of the electric scooter company that you are renting out from. They will show you the rates once you sign up or log in. Add the scooter you currently have with you, but if you cannot find one the app will show you where other scooters will be located at.

Also make sure to keep track of the time you use the scooter because the longer you use it the more the cost goes up. Make sure to read the fine print, as some companies charge per minute and fees can add up quickly.

#6. Walk Around to Save The Most Money

Photo by Patrick Ho on Unsplash

Walking will be the most affordable option for saving the most money while you travel around a city. Walking is free. Check the distance between different attractions you are planning on visiting.

Doing this will help you get an idea of how long the walk will be and the mileage. Use that to determine if that attraction is close or too far of a walk. After all walking is also good exercise that can contribute to staying in shape.

#7. Travel During the Non-Busy Seasons

Photo by Behnam Norouzi on Unsplash

Traveling during the least busy times of the year can come with more affordable activities compared to the more touristy time of the year. The rates for hotels will usually be more affordable compared to the peak travel periods within the year like spring break or the summer vacation months “June-August”. Check hotel rates with websites like Priceline to find some of the cheapest hotel rates in your area.

#8. Find Free Attractions

Photo by Mae Mu on Unsplash

Free attractions will save you the most money. Many cities have parks, landmarks, historic sites, beaches, lakes, rivers, free museums and markets. Consider visiting one of these to save the most money. Without having to spend money the more you are able to do throughout your trip.

#9. Check Out Different Walking Tours

Photo by Bernie Almanzar on Unsplash

Many cities offer free or low-cost walking tours that allow you to explore a city with a guide. Look up the city you plan to visit and search for the variety of walking tours that city has to offer.

You learn so much about the history of the city, history of certain streets and attractions, but overall walking tours take you to the best spots. After all we highly recommend giving this a try if you are looking for things to do within a city.

#10. Explore Affordable Food Options

Photo by Dennis Siqueira on Unsplash

After a long day of exploring a city, you may feel hungry. It’s better to find food for a low cost when you are on a budget. Consider going to a market or grocery store to save money so you will be able to have the option to carry a bulk of certain foods. If you do not want to carry food, go to fast food restaurants with affordable options on their menu.

Getting a slice of pizza can be more affordable compared to an expensive meal at a high-end restaurant. Be creative with the options around you. Check out the menu and prices of food online to figure out how much you will need to spend.

Overall traveling around a city doesn’t have to be expensive. By utilizing one or more of these affordable transportation options, you can see all the sights without breaking the bank. Remember to plan ahead, research your options, and compare prices to get the best deals. Stay safe traveling!

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