“How much does a weekend in [insert a city] cost?” It's the first question you ask before leaving, and the answer mostly depends on three choices: the city, the season, and the way you travel. Here's an honest benchmark, item by item, to estimate your budget — and cut it where you can.
Good news: a European city trip remains one of the most accessible getaways in the world. On average, count between €250 and €500 per person for two to three days, excluding travel to get there. Let's break it down.
Getting there
This is the most variable item — and the easiest to optimise. Low-cost airlines link the major European cities for €40 to €150 return if you book early (ideally 6 to 8 weeks ahead) and avoid school holidays. On short routes, the train is often more comfortable and greener, sometimes cheaper than flying once baggage fees are added.
Accommodation: the item that makes the difference
For two to three nights, budget €60 to €200 per night depending on the city and standard. Hostels (dorm or private room) remain unbeatable for tight budgets, while a central boutique hotel is more like €120-180. The smart move: aim for a central, well-connected area to save on transport and time.
Activities and visits
Count €30 to €50 per major visit (major museum, iconic monument, cruise). But many treasures are free: most of London's great museums, Rome's churches, the viewpoints, the historic districts. Booking skip-the-line tickets online avoids the queues and often costs less than at the counter. For each destination, we list the must-sees and their prices — for example what to do in Rome or what to do in Lisbon.
Eating without breaking the bank
The golden rule: avoid restaurants with menus translated into six languages around the monuments. Walk five minutes, look for the spots full of locals, and you'll eat twice as well for half the price. Covered markets, street food and lunch menus are your best allies. Realistic meal budget: €25 to €45 per day per person.
How much to budget by city?
Not all capitals are equal on the wallet front. Here are the main trends:
- Pricier cities: Paris, Amsterdam, Venice, London — count the top of the range.
- Excellent value: Prague, Budapest, Lisbon, Porto — accommodation, meals and visits are much gentler.
- In between: Rome, Madrid, Seville, Berlin — affordable if you avoid the tourist traps.
There you have it, ready to estimate your budget. And to make your itinerary fit your wishes — and your wallet — let the CityPlanner app build your stay and spot the best activities around you.
