Under $100: Suzhou, China

Situated on the picturesque Yangtze River and shores of Lake Tai is the historic Chinese city of Suzhou, a lesser known but impressive destination northwest of Shanghai, renowned for its historic relics, elaborate gardens, stone bridges and pagodas.

Often dubbed Venice of the East, Suzhou boasts an extensive history of more than 2,500 years having been founded in 514 B.C. The city is full of long-standing landmarks and relics, which can be easily explored on a budget.

Explore the Classical Gardens of Suzhou, among the most beautiful gardens in the world, each representative of different dynasties. Explore The Humble Administrator’s Garden — the most famous — for only $10 or the Lingering Garden, the Canglang Pavilion and the Lion Grove Garden for $4–6.

Some of the most beautiful landmarks in Suzhou can be enjoyed for free. Discover the Pan Gate on the southwest corner of the Main Canal, believed to be more than 2,500 years old, or the Baodai Bridge, which stretches across Lake Tantai, originally build in 806 AD, featuring 53 arches made of stone from the Jinshan Mountain. Hike up Tiger Hill, named for its likeness to a crouching tiger, and take in the surrounding natural beauty as well as the poetry and calligraphy carved into rocks on the hill. Tiger Hill is also home to several stunning pagodas including the renowned seven-story Five Dynasties pagoda at the top.

Visit the Suzhou Museum, Suzhou Silk Museum and Suzhou Museum of Opera and Theatre, all at no cost.

Finding affordable, authentic and delicious food in Suzhou is easy. Suzhou cuisine is renowned for its mild sweetness, seasonal vegetables and fresh seafood.

Enjoy authentic noodle soup at TongDe Xing, stocked with braised pork, curry, vegetables or tofu. Heaping bowls start at $2. Try De Yue Lou, a popular spot with locals for authentic Suzhou cuisine, where large hearty meals can be enjoyed for $14. A more affordable option for great authentic dishes is Xie He Cai Guan, where dishes are priced around $7.

Stop by the Panyulin Sugar Porridge Stall, which serves authentic Suzhou sugar porridge, made with stewed rice doused with sweet bean paste and mixed with sweet-scented osmanthus. Enjoy this ultimate comfort food for around 50 cents.

Getting around Suzhou is simple with convenient buses that run in all parts of the city with fares from 29 cents.