Which countries are the most budget-friendly to visit in each of the 12 months this year? Pick the right time to explore Europe for under 50,000!

▲ Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa, Tokyo. (Photo / Provided by Tripresso Travel Cafe, same below)

By reporter Tsai Wen-jun / Comprehensive report

The new year of 2017 has just begun, and many travelers are already gearing up to plan their overseas trips for the year. But when is the best time to travel abroad for the most affordable group tour prices? Taiwan’s travel e-commerce platform Tripresso Travel Cafe has released the most cost-effective travel destinations for each of the 12 months this year based on data. By choosing the right time, you can travel to Europe for over 50% off the peak-season prices at most — perfect if you’re considering joining a guided tour!

January: Kanto, Kansai regions of Japan & Okinawa
Japan remains the top overseas destination for Taiwanese travelers. In January, the Kanto region is full of New Year cheer, and the most affordable group tour packages average around NT$27,900 — that’s a 28.28% discount compared to peak season prices (averaging NT$38,900)! It’s definitely a great time to go.

▲ Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion).

The Kansai area, including Kyoto, Osaka, Kobe, and Nara, is also a great deal in January. The average price is about NT$28,900, which is a 31.03% discount from peak season rates (averaging NT$41,900). You might even catch a rare snowfall in the Kansai region — a unique experience.

Okinawa is another great value destination with an average price of NT$19,500, offering a 32.53% discount from its peak-season average of NT$28,900. Winter in Okinawa has plenty to offer, including the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, a must-visit attraction.

▲ The Czech Republic is romantic in winter.

February: Czech Republic
The most affordable Czech group tours are available in the chilly month of February, with an average price of around NT$56,650 — a whopping 47.01% cheaper than the peak-season average of NT$106,900, making it the third biggest price gap of the year.

March: Vietnam
Vietnam is a representative of short-haul hidden gems, ideal for travelers wanting a laid-back adventure without taking too much time off. Northern Vietnam’s Ha Long Bay features nearly 2,000 towering islands and reefs, creating breathtaking scenery known as the “Inland Ha Long Bay of the Sea” — a must-see.

Vietnam offers the most affordable group tours in March, with an average starting price of about NT$18,500, which is a 42.59% discount compared to the peak-season average of NT$32,225.

▲ Greece in spring isn’t just beautiful — the weather is pleasant too.

April: Greece
Greece, Europe’s top honeymoon destination, offers the best value in April. Average tour prices are around NT$97,900, which is about 24.05% cheaper than the peak-season average of NT$128,900.

By April, Greece is already feeling like spring, with average temperatures between 17–20°C. The comfortable weather combined with the sparkling Aegean Sea makes it a perfect choice for newlyweds or couples on a romantic trip.

▲ Canada’s iconic Niagara Falls.

May: Canada
If you’re planning to visit Canada to see one of the world’s three greatest waterfalls, May is the best time to go. Discounted group tour prices average around NT$59,800, which is a 17.96% discount compared to the peak-season price of NT$72,888.

June: Hong Kong & Macau
Halfway through the year, if you're looking for a short relaxing getaway or a shopping spree, Hong Kong and Macau are your best bet. These short-haul destinations are shopping paradises, and group tour prices average around NT$16,200 in June — about 27.35% cheaper than peak season, making it the most budget-friendly time to go.

July: Cambodia
Cambodia is a place where you can naturally slow down and find inner peace — and July is the most affordable time to visit. Average group tour prices are around NT$25,100, which is about 3.46% lower than peak-season prices.

August: Kyushu, Japan
Traveling to Japan during summer vacation can actually be quite affordable. In August, visiting Kyushu averages around NT$25,900, which is about 29.81% cheaper than the peak-season average of NT$36,900.

▲ Boracay Island in the Philippines.

September: Philippine Islands
In recent years, the Philippine Islands have become a top choice for student graduation trips and couple getaways. If you want to enjoy beautiful scenery abroad while also keeping an eye on cost-effectiveness, September is arguably the most budget-friendly time. During this period, the average group tour price is around 20,500 yuan, which is nearly 32.79% cheaper than the peak season.

October: Australia
In the warm weather of October in Australia, not only is the weather great, but traveling there is also quite affordable at this time. The average group tour cost is about 38,300 yuan, which is nearly 46.66% cheaper compared to the peak season’s highest price of 71,800 yuan. If you want to enjoy Australia’s uniquely beautiful natural landscapes, consider departing in October.

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November: France, Switzerland, Italy
Want to explore Europe without breaking the bank? For just around 50,000 yuan, you can do it. According to data, the average group tour price for Paris, France, in November is about 48,900 yuan, which is a significant 58.35% lower than the peak season’s average high of 117,400 yuan — making it the most cost-effective destination of the year.

Meanwhile, the increasingly popular Switzerland also offers the best value in November, with an average price of 67,900 yuan — 44.75% less than the peak season’s 122,900 yuan. Travelers who love skiing and breathtaking mountain views might want to plan their trip for November.

Visiting romantic Italy in November is another great option. The average group tour price during this period is around 71,400 yuan, which is 44.15% more affordable than the peak season’s 127,850 yuan.

▲Germany’s Christmas markets are the largest in Europe.

December: Spain and Germany
As the final month of 2017, if you still have annual leave left, why not head to Spain, where winters are not too harsh? The average group tour price during this time is around 69,900 yuan, which is 48.28% cheaper than the peak season’s 135,150 yuan.

If you’re a fan of Christmas markets, Germany is the place to go. The average group tour price here is about 59,900 yuan — 45.5% lower than the peak season’s highest price of 109,900 yuan. Plus, you can visit Europe’s largest Christmas market in Nuremberg for a romantic holiday. December is definitely the time to head to Germany.