Best & Cheap Historical Places to Visit in 2024

Someone said that, “It’s better to see something once than to hear about it a thousand times.” History has such a way of hiding in every nook and cranny of the world for the curious to find. Why I am saying this? 

Because I am an aspiring historian with limited means, have found out that studying history is not necessarily expensive. 

You don’t need to be a millionaire to experience the wonders of the past. 

There’s a wealth of historical experiences out there, from ancient ruins to grand castles, waiting to be explored. 

The best part? Many of these incredible places won’t cost you an arm and a leg. There are Best & Cheap Historical Places to Visit in 2024.

When I started traveling around the world, I spent millions on taking flights, accommodation, eating, and transportation. Oh, that was too much. But Then I realized and found some ways to save money. You must be curious to find them. 

Also, I was concerned about what to eat during traveling and traveling essential packing list. 

So, what are the best historical places to visit? Let’s check it out!

Note: Admission fee mentioned in the content may vary. 

My Journey to the Historical Wonders- Places Best for Couples

1. France- A Historical and Cultural Palimpsest

France is a country of medieval castles, royal palaces, and picturesque villages. The cheap historical places to visit France are surely going to be of interest to the historian.

Mont Saint-Michel

I went to this famous abbey situated on a rocky tors and felt its enchantment. 

That was a trip of a lifetime. I reached Mont Saint-Michel by taking a train to Pontorson or Dol-de-Bretagne and then taking a shuttle bus or taxi to the island.

Carcassonne

I visited the medieval walled city of Carcassonne and the castle and walls of the city gave me a feeling of history. 

It was as if one was entering a medieval fairytale. I suggest you to just wander through the charming streets. 

Loire Valley

I came across fairytale-like castles of the Loire Valley, Chambord, Chenonceau, and Villandry castles are unique in their way. 

It was so enchanting that it was as if one had been taken on a journey through the ages. Castles and gardens within the Loire Valley typically have entrance fees. 

These fees vary depending on the castle and can range from around €10 to €20 per person.

Also read how you can travel the world in your budget. 

2. Edinburgh, Scotland- A City of History and Culture

I must admit that Edinburgh’s old town filled me with admiration. 

The cheap historical places to visit Edinburgh are prominent with its medieval buildings and a rich life.

Edinburgh Castle

I spent £20 to visit the castle. 

This is a famous castle that sits on Castle Rock and I visited this fortress to learn more about the Scottish Crown Jewels and the Stone of Destiny. 

It was one of the best experiences that I have ever had.

The Royal Mile

This is one of the oldest and most beautiful streets that I strolled along the shops, cafes, and other buildings. 

This was quite an enjoyable approach to getting a feel of the social pulse of Edinburgh.

I found hidden courtyards there. You can do the same just keep exploring. 

Greyfriars Kirkyard

I went to this eerie cemetery and saw the tomb of the most famous dog – Greyfriars Bobby. 

It was a touching narration of the relationship between man and animal.

The awesome thing, Greyfriars Kirkyard is free to enter.

3. London, England- History and Culture City

London is one of the oldest cities in the world. 

For this reason, it is a perfect place for history lovers. 

The cheap historical places to visit in London are as below.

The Tower of London

I toured this famous fort, with a sinister past and saw the crown jewels. 

This was a very interesting and enlightening encounter. 

Remember, you need to spend £30.50 there.

Buckingham Palace

I was able to observe the Changing of the Guard and tour the State Rooms of this palace. 

It was a great and magnificent experience. 

Entrance fee is £26.50.

You can only visit the State Rooms during specific times of the year when the Queen is not in residence.

The British Museum

I came across the Rosetta Stone as well as the Elgin Marbles, and other pieces of art from different parts of the world. 

That was quite moving. Some special exhibitions may have a separate admission charges however, the museum is free to enter. Wow!

Best Historical Places to Visit for Solo Female

4. Birmingham, England

The first time I visited Birmingham, a city that I had never really considered as a destination before, I was to prove to be a cultural jewel, with a diverse and lively arts scene, and a history of industrial innovation. Here are some cheap historical places to visit Birmingham.

The Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery

No fee is the best thing here. 

I strolled for many hours in this great museum more interested in art, archaeology, and social history. The best part? It’s completely free!

The Jewellery Quarter

I went for an auto-tour of this historic area and was able to appreciate the fine details of the works of art in the workshops and factories. 

One felt as though they had gone back in time and the best thing about it was that it was free.

Cadbury World

Cadbury World is a place that is hard to resist a visit to when on a tour of the region. 

I had a tasty trip through Cadbury’s chocolate history, with engaging displays and, of course, samples. 

It was an entertaining and cost-effective way to get to know one of my favorite brands within £23.50.

5. Cornwall, England- Legends and Castles Country

The magnificent cliffs and the impressive landscapes of Cornwall have always been my favorite. There are some cheap historical places to visit Cornwall.

Tintagel Castle

I visited the remains of this famous castle in just £19.50. It is believed to have been the place of birth of the great king Arthur. 

It was a fairy tale kind of event, with a history and a mythology to it.

St Michael’s Mount

Do you have £18? Then let’s visit the mount. 

I crossed to this famous tidal castle by ferry and explored the architectural and horticultural remains of this fort. 

I enjoyed this historical and beautiful trip.

The Eden Project

Here, I learned the beauty of nature at this particular place that features biodomes with different kinds of plants. 

It was an exciting and informative event on the necessity of preserving the number of animal species in just £29.50.

6. California- Pacific Ocean Converged History

From the moment I set foot in California, the State’s diverse geography and wealth of history impressed me. I want to tell you about cheap historical places to visit California.

Mission San Juan Capistrano

I visited this historical mission that was established in 1776 and got to know about the Native Americans and the Spanish missionaries.

It was quite an interesting look at the early days of California in $15.

Old Town San Diego State Historic Park

There are preserved old buildings and the atmosphere of the 19th century in this town with shops, museums and cafes. 

In just $10, you can enjoy charming approach to living in a time machine.

Yosemite National Park

I love the geology of Yosemite because the area has huge granite rocks, waterfalls, and sequoia trees. 

It was an unforgettable experience, the sheer force of the water and the might of the river.

Entrance fee is $35 per vehicle however, I suggest you to buy annual passes available for $80.

Best Cheap Historical Places to Visit for Youngsters

7. Japan- A Land With Cultural Background

The trip that I took to Japan was an explosion of the sight, sound, touch, smell, and taste, of the old and the new, of the man-made and the natural. Let’s check cheap historical places to visit in Japan.

Kyoto

I wandered through the grounds of the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji) and marveled at how the structure looked golden in the sunlight. 

I also went to the Fushimi Inari Shrine and the thousands of red torii gates are simply so enchanting that it felt like walking in a tunnel of red.

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

This place memorized me the tragic event happened ever in this world. 

It is a  free to enter memorial to the victims of the Second World War. 

It is a very sad thing when people kill each other.

Nara

Nara Park is mesmerizing to visit as the tame deer roaming around the park. 

It was very pleasant, I even had a chance to give them some crackers to eat. 

I also went to the Todai-ji Temple in 500 yen. Here is the largest bronze statue of Buddha in the world. 

It was a very magnificent sight to behold.

8. Manchester, England- A City for Industry and Innovation

Manchester has a very rich industrial history, and this has influenced the city’s culture and architecture which I wanted to discover. 

So, I tell you about cheap historical places to visit Manchester.

The Manchester Museum

I visited natural history, archaeology, and art museums which are located in one of the Victorian architecture buildings. 

It was really very interesting and I got to learn a lot. 

Enjoy while spending no money there because it is free to enter.

The People’s History Museum

I looked at the life of the working-class people in Manchester through the use of displays, narratives, and activities. 

That was a very strong and emotional performance.

The Northern Quarter

This was a vibrant creative area, filled with independent shops, cafes, and street art, and I strolled around here.

9. Scotland- The Country of Fairy-tales

Scotland, the country of the Highlands and the castles has always been dear to me. 

I came to know about some cheap historical places to visit Scotland, and here they are.

Stirling Castle

I went to this magnificent castle on a volcanic rock in £19.50. I visited some common rooms of the royal couples. There were places of the battles too. 

I think it was one of the most impressive experiences I’ve ever had.

Edinburgh Castle

I visited this grand castle situated on the volcanic rock and researched more about this place, the Scottish Crown Jewels, and the Stone of Destiny. 

It was really one for the books. I spent £20 there. 

Loch Ness

I traveled to this famous loch that is believed to harbor the Loch Ness monster took a boat ride and went for a hike around the area. 

It was beautiful but mysterious as most of the historical sites.

Historical Travel Tips for a Shoestring

As I have visited all the above places, I want to suggest you follow these traveling tips.

• You will appreciate yourself if you book your flights and accommodation in advance.
• Off-season travel is also beneficial.
• Know about free access hours of the day or days of the week.
• Taking the local buses and the trains can also be cheaper.
• Go to the places where locals eat.

Read these books before you travel to historical places. 

• Visit of Historical Places, and Notice of Field Meeting
• Historical Site Bucket List
• Great Historic Places

The Departure

Out there, history is still hidden and does not require one to spend a lot of money to unveil it. 

If you don’t have the luxury of time and/ or money to go around the world and see the world’s most historical sites, then don’t worry because here are some tips that you can follow to make your dream a reality. 

Therefore, please put on your traveling shoes, take your camera along, and let me take you on a time travel adventure!

FAQs

What are some of the best free historical attractions?

Many museums, parks, and historic sites offer free entry on certain days or times. Look for “free admission days” or “free after-hours” events.

How can I save money on transportation while traveling?

Utilize public transportation like buses and trains, walk or bike when possible, and consider purchasing a travel pass for multiple attractions.

What are some budget-friendly accommodation options?

Hostels, guesthouses, and Airbnb rentals are great alternatives to luxury hotels. You can also look for deals on hotels during the off-season.