A recent study by Rustic Pathways, a student travel company, delved into the affordability of one-night stays in the world’s top ten most visited cities. The research analyzed several factors, including the median cost of a mid-range hotel room, meal expenses at budget restaurants, spending on beverages, local transportation, and tips.
Berlin – Total Cost: $266
Berlin emerged as the most budget-friendly city, with a one-night stay averaging $266 per person. The median cost for a mid-range double-occupancy room is $138, the lowest among the cities examined. Dining out at budget restaurants costs around $56, while local transportation expenses amount to approximately $19 per day.
Madrid – Total Cost: $298
The Spanish capital follows closely behind, with a total expenditure of $298 per person for a one-night trip. A mid-range double-occupancy room averages $167, while meals at budget eateries come to $37. Daily local transportation costs are around $20.
Tokyo – Total Cost: $338
Tokyo ranks third in affordability, with a one-night stay totaling $338 per person. The median cost for a mid-range hotel room is $155. Dining at budget restaurants amounts to $38, and local transportation averages $18 per day.
Barcelona – Total Cost: $340
Barcelona secures the fourth spot, with a one-night break costing $340 per person. The median room price is $208, while meals at budget restaurants total $35. Daily local transport expenses are around $21.
Amsterdam – Total Cost: $374
The Netherlands’ capital rounds up the top five, with a one-night trip costing $374 per person. The median room cost is $221, meals at budget restaurants amount to $47, and local transportation expenses are approximately $21 per day.
Rome – Total Cost: $383
Rome stands as the sixth most affordable city, with a one-night stay averaging $383 per person. The city’s dining costs are relatively higher, with three meals at budget restaurants totaling $51.
London – Total Cost: $461
London secures the seventh position, with a total expenditure of $461 per person for a one-night stay. Alcohol expenses are relatively lower, with an average spending of $27 per person during the trip.
Dubai – Total Cost: $465
Dubai ranks eighth in affordability, with a one-night break costing $465 per person. The city’s mid-range double occupancy rooms are relatively pricey, averaging $340 for a one-night stay.
Paris – Total Cost: $557
Paris takes the penultimate spot, with a one-night stay totaling $557 per person. Entertainment expenses are relatively high, with an average daily spending of $84 per person.
New York – Total Cost: $687
New York City wraps up the top ten, with a one-night break costing $687 per person. The city’s mid-range double occupancy rooms are the most expensive, averaging $350 for a one-night stay, and entertainment expenses are also high, with an average daily spending of $180 per person.
Shayne Fitz-Coy, CEO of Rustic Pathways, commented on the findings: “With the cost of living having risen dramatically over recent years for many countries, many 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.
“This study provides a clear insight into the cities that people want to visit, with Europe dominating, and which of these cities are not going to break the bank.
“If someone is looking for a break with plenty of sightseeing, then Dubai is a good option for them, with many of the country’s most popular tourist hotspots being free to the public, such as The Dubai Fountain and Marina Beach. Or if a tourist doesn’t want to overspend on food, then Barcelona is a great option, with the average visitor spending only $35 on food across a one-night break.”
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
