Europe's 2026 City Break Cost Rankings
Post Office analysts have released their City Costs Barometer, a study comparing the price of 12 tourist goods and services for two people across 50 European cities. Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, has been identified as the cheapest destination for a European trip in 2026, while Oslo, Norway, tops the list as the most expensive. The ranking provides average costs for a short city break in each location.
A brief stay in Sarajevo costs an average of £248 (approximately 14,721 Ukrainian hryvnias), making it a highly appealing choice for budget-conscious travelers. In contrast, a similar trip to Oslo comes in at £734 (about 43,570 hryvnias)—nearly three times the price of Sarajevo. Notably, Sarajevo ranked first in eight out of the twelve categories measured for trip expenses.
Cheapest and Most Expensive Cities for a City Break
The list of most affordable cities also includes:
- Bucharest, Romania – £258
- Tirana, Albania – £263
- Belgrade, Serbia – £265
- Trenčín, Slovakia – £272
- Riga, Latvia – £278
- Lille, France – £289
- Vilnius, Lithuania – £289
- Strasbourg, France – £319
- Podgorica, Montenegro – £332
On the other end of the scale, the ranking also highlights the priciest destinations. Copenhagen, Denmark, takes second place with an average cost of £671, followed by Edinburgh, Scotland, at £668. Rounding out the top ten are: Geneva, Switzerland (4th, £644); Barcelona, Spain (5th, £641); Dublin, Ireland (6th, £611); Amsterdam, Netherlands (7th, £609); Cork, Ireland (8th, £602); and Venice, Italy and Madrid, Spain (tied for 9th, £580).
“When it comes to affordable city breaks, people often focus on flights. But the costs you incur after arrival matter just as much as the price of your plane ticket. Food, drinks, transport, entertainment, and accommodation all add up quickly—even on a short trip.”
Study authors
The report’s authors emphasize that Sarajevo’s low overall cost of living—driven by affordable housing, cheap public transit, and inexpensive attractions—makes it the top choice for a short European vacation in 2026.
This ranking can serve as a practical tool for travelers planning their trips, especially those seeking budget-friendly options. The selection of Sarajevo as the cheapest city could boost tourism to Bosnia and Herzegovina, positively impacting the local economy. The study also underscores the importance of factoring in on-the-ground expenses when planning a getaway, as these can vary significantly depending on the destination.
As travelers seek affordable options for their next getaway, it's also essential to consider the overall living experience in various cities. For those contemplating a move or extended stay, Lisbon has been recognized as the best city for expats in 2026, offering a vibrant atmosphere and cost-effective living, making it a compelling choice beyond just short visits.