A surprising revelation has identified the UK’s priciest spot for a weekend getaway, and it’s not the usual suspect.
London is renowned for its high costs, from expensive hotels to entertainment, dining, and even a pint at the pub. Expenses can quickly accumulate, with Post Office Travel Money’s research indicating an average expenditure of £527.50 for a two-night stay in the capital over the weekend for a couple.
To assist Brits in maximizing their travel budget, the Post Office has unveiled the 50 most budget-friendly European cities in their ‘City Costs Barometer 2026′, comparing holiday essentials’ prices. Sarajevo in Bosnia and Herzegovina claimed the top spot for the most economical two-night stay for two, trailed by Bucharest in Romania and Tirana in Albania.
UK destinations did not make it into the top 20 rankings, with Cardiff in Wales positioned at 21 with a total cost of £377.64, and London placed at 34. Notably, the list revealed the UK’s most expensive city for a two-night weekend break for two, costing nearly double the price of Cardiff and almost £150 more than London.
Edinburgh in Scotland, with its iconic castle towering over the city, surrounded by striking volcanic landscapes, historic sites, and charming cobbled streets, is a popular tourist destination. However, this popularity comes at a cost, as the Post Office identified it as the priciest UK city for a desirable two-night escape.
Ranked 48th on the list, Post Office experts estimated that a two-night trip for two to Edinburgh would total £668.10. The breakdown included a £3.50 cup of coffee, a £6 bottle of beer, a £5.60 glass of wine, a £118 three-course dinner, and an £18 sightseeing bus tour.
Accommodation significantly drove up the expenses, with an average cost of £462 for a two-night stay for two at a three-star hotel in Edinburgh. For those seeking savings while planning a staycation, Cardiff emerged as the most economical UK destination for a weekend retreat.
Laura Plunkett, head of Travel Money at Post Office, advised, “Despite concerns over rising prices abroad, numerous European cities offer excellent value for money. While the pound remains relatively strong, it is essential for travelers to research and plan ahead to maximize their spending power, especially for short breaks in these challenging times.”
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