If you’re planning to splurge on a trip, we explain which of the world’s most popular cities offer the best value for your money.
Planning an extravagant trip can be challenging – between booking flights, choosing the best cards for travel abroad, sorting out travel insurance and finding the best travel money deals, there’s a lot to juggle.
If you don’t want to splash the cash you can always consider some of the cheapest countries to visit. But these cities are popular tourist destinations for a reason, combining world-class dining with unmatched cultural experiences and of course famous cityscapes. So, if you’re keen to head off on a city break we reveal the cost of visiting the most popular cities in the world, and how you can stretch your travel budget for an unforgettable first-class trip.
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Most popular cities in the world to visit
Travel company Rustic Pathways has looked at the top 10 most visited cities in the world and then ranked them according to how expensive they are for a one-night trip. It has done this by analysing the average cost of accommodation, transport and food and drinks, from travel providers such as Kayak, Viator and TourRadar.
Shayne Fitz-Coy, CEO of Rustic Pathways, said: “With the cost of living having risen dramatically over recent years for many countries, many people will still want a holiday abroad but will be looking to spend less than they usually would. A short-haul city break is a great option for potential holidaymakers who want to visit new places but spend a bit less.”
| City | Hotel | Transportation | Food | Entertainment | Tips and handouts | Alcohol | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| New York City | £280 | £39.20 | £40 | £144 | £11.20 | £35.20 | £549.60 |
| Paris | £261.60 | £18.40 | £36 | £67.20 | £30.40 | £32 | £445.60 |
| Dubai | £272 | £10.40 | £44.80 | £15.20 | £2.40 | £27.20 | £372 |
| London | £248 | £25.60 | £34.40 | £32.80 | £4.80 | £23.20 | £368.80 |
| Rome | £153.60 | £18.40 | £40.80 | £31.20 | £38.40 | £24 | £306.40 |
| Amsterdam | £176.80 | £16.80 | £37.60 | £32 | £5.60 | £30.40 | £299.20 |
| Barcelona | £166.40 | £16.80 | £28 | £28.80 | £9.60 | £22.40 | £272 |
| Tokyo | £124 | £14.40 | £30.40 | £55.20 | £6.40 | £40 | £270.40 |
| Madrid | £133.60 | £16 | £29.60 | £29.60 | £4 | £25.60 | £238.40 |
| Berlin | £110.40 | £15.20 | £44.80 | £19.20 | £1 | £21.60 | £212.80 |
Source: Rustic Pathways
1. New York City
When you think of New York City, it’s hard not to picture the iconic skyscrapers and dazzling lights of Broadway. This dynamic metropolis is the most popular city on the list, and its price tag reflects this, with an average cost of around £549.60 per person for a one-night stay. However, it’s well worth the value.
New York boasts an array of attractions, including the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, the Empire State Building, Central Park and Times Square. For art lovers, the Guggenheim Museum offers an eclectic collection, a rich archive of films set in the Big Apple makes it a great destination for cinema lovers, while sports enthusiasts can catch a baseball game at Yankee Stadium.
2. Paris
In second place is Paris, where prices are expensive due to steep entertainment costs and tips. The French capital is hugely popular for honeymooners because of its historic charm and romantic ambience. The Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Arc de Triomphe and Notre-Dame Cathedral are just a few of the city’s world-famous landmarks.
Travellers can also enjoy leisurely strolls along the River Seine, explore the bohemian and artsy Montmartre, and enjoy authentic croissants and French macaroons in local boulangeries. During the 2024 Summer Olympics, Paris saw a 200% jump in tourist tax, to support infrastructure and transport improvements.
3. Dubai
One of the most popular cities in the Middle East, Dubai ranks third on this list due to its sky-high accommodation costs, averaging £272 per night. Dubai is known for its opulence, desert safaris, luxury shopping malls and landmarks like the Burj Khalifa and the tree-shaped Palm Jumeirah Island. Dubai’s extravagant lifestyle extends to its food and entertainment options, making it a top destination for those seeking high-end experiences.
4. London
London lives up to its reputation as one of the most visited cities in the world and costs roughly £370 for a night out and stay. The city is rich in history and culture, with iconic attractions such as Big Ben, the London Eye, Buckingham Palace and the British Museum. London’s theatre district is known for its West End shows, and its vibrant music scene, including Taylor Swift’s billion-dollar Eras tour. The upcoming Oasis Live ’25 tour is expected to bring fans from all over the world.
5. Rome
Rome is the fifth most popular city to visit, and costs on average £306.40 per person for a one-night stay. Known as the ‘Eternal City’, Rome offers an abundance of historical and cultural treasures: visitors can marvel at the Colosseum, toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain, explore the ancient Pantheon and walk around Vatican City. You can wander the cobblestone streets while marvelling at grandiose structures that have been around for centuries. And don’t be surprised if you find yourself debating the best gelato flavour – the dessert here is serious business!
6. Amsterdam
Picture a city where canals are everywhere, bicycles are the primary mode of transport and windmills form the backdrop – that’s Amsterdam in a nutshell. One of the most travel-friendly cities in the world, Amsterdam costs an average of just under £300 per person for a one-night stay. There’s plenty for art and food lovers to do, including cheese tasting, visiting the Van Gogh Museum, the Rijksmuseum, KattenKabinet (yes, a cat museum) and the Anne Frank House.
7. Barcelona
Getting a glimpse into Catalan culture has made this Spanish city a popular destination for holidaymakers, with costs averaging £272 for a one-night stay. With stunning Gaudi architecture throughout, including the iconic Sagrada Familia – the world’s largest unfinished church – and the whimsical Park Güell, Barcelona feels like a living art gallery. You can wander through the lively La Rambla or explore the Gothic Quarter’s narrow streets, and maybe find some delicious tapas in a beachside restaurant.
8. Tokyo
A weak yen has boosted tourism in Japan. Costing around £270.40 for a one-night stay, the high-tech capital city is home to the Tokyo National Museum, Imperial Palace, Meiji Shinto Shrine and several Michelin-star restaurants. From the bustling streets of Shibuya to the cutting-edge technology in Akihabara, Tokyo offers a rich tapestry of experiences for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re into tea houses, sushi restaurants or ancient temples, there’s something for everyone. And although flights from the UK are usually expensive, it does have some of the cheapest accommodation costs on our list.
9. Madrid
Madrid is renowned for its football legacy, with Real Madrid CF boasting a record 14 UEFA Champions League titles, making the city a hotspot for football enthusiasts. Beyond football, Madrid offers a wealth of attractions, from its rich historical landmarks such as the Royal Palace and La Puerta de Alcalá to masterpieces at the Prado Museum and the Reina Sofía Museum. And the nightlife is also outstanding – expect lively tapas bars, bustling plazas and passionate flamenco performances.
10. Berlin
Last but not least on the list is Berlin, where a one-night visit costs around £212.80. The German capital is a cultural hub known for its historical Cold War sites such as the Brandenburg Gate, the Reichstag with its famed glass dome, UNESCO World Heritage Sites and a vibrant nightlife.
How to maximise your travel budget
With holiday getaway costs soaring in recent months by nearly 30%, you should consider not just the cost of the holiday but also how you’re going to make your budget go further. Our tips should help:
Book early for discounts: Plan and book your flights, accommodation, airport parking and airport lounge access well in advance to take advantage of lower prices and special offers. Early bookings can often lead to significant savings compared to last-minute reservations.
Be flexible with dates: If your travel dates are flexible, you can avoid peak-season prices and travel during less busy times. This flexibility can help you find cheaper flights and hotels.
Use price comparison websites: Using online tools and apps that compare prices across various airlines, hotels and travel agencies can help you find the best deals, along with greater customisation for your journey. For instance, when picking your travel insurance policy, you can compare winter sports or activities cover, gadget cover and the amount of medical cover you’ll receive. That way, you can find one that works for you and is good value for money.
Look for all-inclusive packages: Explore package deals that combine flights, hotels and, sometimes, even activities. These packages can offer substantial savings compared to booking each component separately, making it a cost-effective option for your holiday planning. You can find such deals on British Airways, TUI, Audley Travel and Opodo.
Avoid holiday scams: Holidaymakers should stay vigilant and avoid holiday scams, especially when a travel deal seems too good to be true. Last year, Action Fraud reported that £12.3 million was lost to holiday scammers, with the average victim losing £1,851 to such crimes.
For more tips, check out our how to save on a holiday guide.
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