United Kingdom Travel Budget - Visit United Kingdom on a Budget or Travel in Style

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Heading to the United Kingdom? As a very popular destination, it's renowned for Big Ben in London, the Edinburgh Castle, and Loch Ness in Inverness. Our travel cost guide will help you plan an epic vacation without overspending. We've got all the essentials, from average hotel rates to dining and entertainment costs. All of the travel expenses are from real travelers, so you can travel smart and have an amazing trip. This will help you plan the best trip to the United Kingdom and stay within your ideal travel budget, whether you're eating the delicious cuisine in York, admiring the small town charm of Windsor, or taking in the beauty of Bath.

How much does it cost to travel to the United Kingdom?

You should plan to spend around $237 (£178) per day on your vacation in the United Kingdom. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

  • $82 (£62) on meals
  • $39 (£29) on local transportation
  • $205 (£154) on hotels

A one week trip to the United Kingdom for two people costs, on average, $3,318 (£2,492). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    $237
    £178
  • One Week Per person
    $1,659
    £1,246
  • 2 Weeks Per person
    $3,318
    £2,492
  • One Month Per person
    $7,109
    £5,340
  • One Week For a couple
    $3,318
    £2,492
  • 2 Weeks For a couple
    $6,635
    £4,984
  • One Month For a couple
    $14,218
    £10,680
This data comes from the travel budgets of real travelers - How it works. Put these numbers on your website.


How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to the United Kingdom cost?

A one week trip to the United Kingdom usually costs around $1,659 (£1,246) for one person and $3,318 (£2,492) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to the United Kingdom on average costs around $3,318 (£2,492) for one person and $6,635 (£4,984) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in the United Kingdom will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to the United Kingdom on average costs around $7,109 (£5,340) for one person and $14,218 (£10,680) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.




How much do package tours cost in the United Kingdom?

Organized tours are usually more expensive than independent travel, but offer convenience and peace of mind that your trip has been planned by a travel expert.

The average price for an organized tour package in the United Kingdom is $314 per day. While every tour varies by total price, length, number of destinations, and quality, this is the daily average price based on our analysis of available guided tours.



Independent Travel

Traveling Independently has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.

All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.

Is the United Kingdom expensive to visit?

The United Kingdom is a moderately priced destination to visit. It's about average with most other countries for travel costs. The prices for food, accommodation, and transportation are all fairly reasonable.

Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, the United Kingdom is moderately priced compared to the other countries. The overall cost of travel here is comparable to the Netherlands or Denmark.

Whether you prefer to keep things simple or enjoy the finer things, the United Kingdom has a variety of activities and places to stay to fit your budget. Budget accommodation options are available, such as hostels in London, Edinburgh, and Isle of Skye, but there are also luxury hotels that cater to the more affluent customer, along with mid-range hotels for families or couples.

Even though the United Kingdom has a reputation for high prices, eating at less expensive restaurants and enjoying free activities can make it more budget-friendly.

On average, budget travelers spend $93 (£70) per person per day, mid-range travelers spend $237 (£178) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $613 (£460) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to the United Kingdom.

For more details, see Is the United Kingdom Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to the United Kingdom?

The average United Kingdom trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these United Kingdom travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to the United Kingdom cost?

the United Kingdom on a Budget
Category Budget Mid-Range Luxury
Accommodation1
For 1 person in double occupancy 		$40
(£30) 		$102
(£77) 		$261
(£196)
Local Transportation1 $15
(£11) 		$39
(£29) 		$101
(£76)
Food2 $33
(£25) 		$82
(£62) 		$204
(£153)
Entertainment1 $14
(£11) 		$37
(£27) 		$99
(£74)
Alcohol2 $3-10
(£3-8) 		$9-26
(£7-20) 		$22-65
(£16-49)
From real travelers - How these numbers are calculated
Tenby Harbour and Castle Hill, Wales Tenby Harbour and Castle Hill, Wales

Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget

Having realistic expectations when it comes to your budget is crucial. A lot of people claim to be "budget" travelers. Many plan their trip thinking they can manage on just $93 a day like a shoestring backpacker. But the truth is, most aren't comfortable with roughing it on a trip. Reflect on what you truly enjoy and how you've traveled in the past. Are you a fan of resorts and comfortable hotels, or do you prefer the price range offered by hostels but with limited amenities? How important is dining in nice restaurants to you? And how do you like to get around? Your answers will greatly influence your overall travel budget.

What Does It Mean to Be a Budget Traveler?

Many travelers hear that exploring the United Kingdom can be done for $93 a day, but if you want to keep some comforts, expect to pay a lot more.

Backpackers might find a way to travel around on that tight budget, but that usually means dorm stays in hostels, eating at budget-friendly restaurants or fast food places, using public transport or walking, and focusing on free attractions.

Fortunately, the United Kingdom has a significant number of hostels, especially in London, Edinburgh, and Isle of Skye.

Is Your Travel Style Average?

For couples or families traveling for fun, it's common to stay in mid-range hotels, dine at well-known restaurants, and visit the big museums and attractions that charge entry fees. Most visitors will want to go to the Windsor Castle, the Historic Roman Baths, or the Shambles in York on their trip. As most activities are not free, you'll be spending at least some money on your trip. Given this, a more realistic daily budget would be around $237 per person, per day.

With so many hotels and vacation rentals in the United Kingdom, you'll have no trouble finding a place that suits your needs. If you're splitting the cost with a partner, friend, or kids, you'll be able to reduce the daily per-person costs, too. You'll find plenty of family-friendly areas like London and York where hotels and restaurants cater to little ones. Consider staying at Penbontbren Luxury Bed and Breakfast in Penbryn or Wordsworths Guest House in Ambleside for a kid-friendly experience. For couples visiting Kingussie, check out McInnes House Hotel for a romantic place to stay. Find more hotel options for families and couples in our hotel costs guide for the United Kingdom here.

Seeking a Stylish Getaway from the Daily Routine?

If you're seeking a deluxe vacation that includes premium service and amenities, expect to pay around $613. This budget will cover luxurious hotels, award-winning dining, extravagant tours, and private transportation, landing you in the "luxury" travel range. You might even find yourself vacationing in high-end spots like Saint Andrews and Dundee. Another option would be to splurge on a multi-day high-end tour that takes care of everything for you, such as Lake District & Yorkshire Dales Walking & Hiking Tour. - offered by Caspin Journeys.

Accommodation Budget in the United Kingdom

The wide range of hotel prices in the United Kingdom is something to watch out for. Depending on where you stay, there can be a major difference between affordable and more expensive hotels. Prices jump during peak season, so visiting in the off-season or booking early can make a big difference.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid in the United Kingdom for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $205 (£154). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $102 (£77) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.


  • Accommodation1 Hotel or hostel for one person
    $102
    £77
  • Accommodation1 Typical double-occupancy room
    $205
    £154

Hotels in the United Kingdom

Looking for a hotel in the United Kingdom? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.



Actual Hotel Prices in the United Kingdom

The average hotel room price in the United Kingdom based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $113 in the low season and $211 in the peak season. Below are the average prices for each budget category. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

London
As one of the top tourist destinations, London offers a variety of hotel options at a range of prices. You'll find typical hotel prices from $66 in the low season to $521 during the busy peak season. With many travelers lingering for up to seven days, you should prioritize finding a comfortable stay in a favorable location if you plan to explore the area. If you're looking for some good options, you should check out Croham Park Bed & Breakfast for $116 and Batty Langley's starting at $211. If you stay in a hostel, you can expect to pay around $25 for a dorm bed.

Birmingham
In Birmingham, which is a terrific city, expect a fairly wide range of choices and prices for accommodation. Hotel prices here can range from $46 in the low season to $235 during the peak season. Westbourne Lodge ($82) is one of the best hotel options here, and Staybridge Suites Birmingham is also good, and starts at $98. You can expect to pay around $29 for a dorm bed if you decide to stay in a hostel. As many travelers typically stay for up to five days, ensure you find a cozy place in a good spot if you intend to explore for a while.

Glasgow
Glasgow is a medium city that is one of the less touristy places in the United Kingdom. During the peak summer months hotels can fill up early, so plan to book well in advance. In Glasgow, the average hotel price is $100 in the low season and $187 in the busy season. Four star hotels will cost $139 to $260 on average. If you stay in a hostel, you can expect to pay around $24 for a dorm bed. For hotels, a few of the best options here include One Devonshire Gardens a Hotel Du Vin for $191 and Apex City of Glasgow starting at $105.


Recommended Properties


Local Transportation Budget in the United Kingdom

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • On average, past travelers have spent $39 (£29) per person, per day, on local transportation in the United Kingdom. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in the United Kingdom is significantly more than public transportation.


  • Local Transportation1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    $39
    £29
Local Transportation Tips

the United Kingdom offers an impressive train system that links you to almost every part of the country. The prices are quite reasonable, and the journeys are comfortable and quick. When the rail system doesn't cover your destination, you can count on long-distance and regional buses.

In the United Kingdom, public transit options are somewhat limited in many cities, especially if you're not heading to London. It's advisable to rent a car or arrange for a form of transportation in advance, such as a guided tour. However, keep in mind that this might affect your overall trip budget.

If your plans include a trip to the countryside, you'll probably want to rent a car. Remember that the usual vehicle in Europe is equipped with a manual transmission, and choosing an automatic will likely increase the cost. Be sure to book in advance, as the more economical choices can disappear quickly.

Driving in major cities such as London is often not the best option because of the crowds and busy streets. With high parking costs and difficult traffic, it can be a hassle. By relying on public transit or walking instead of renting a car, you can save money and have a smoother experience.

If you're bringing a car to a larger city, be sure to inquire about parking at your hotel beforehand. You may need to pay for parking either at the hotel or at a nearby garage. Finding a spot further from the city could save you some money.


Recommended Services

What did other people spend on Local Transportation?

Typical prices for transit in the United Kingdom are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the overall transportation costs in the United Kingdom. Keep in mind that your individual costs will vary based on your method of transit, as hired cars such as taxis are generally much more expensive than public transportation.


  • Oyster Card
    £27
  • Train to Gatwick Airport (2)
    £22
  • Toll Way - Mersey tunnel
    £1.70
  • Parking
    £1.70
  • Parking in Manchester
    £3.00
  • City bike hire Liverpool
    £6.00
  • Parking
    £2.00
  • Ferry to Isle of Wight
    £16


Food Budget in the United Kingdom

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • While restaurant and meal prices in the United Kingdom can vary significantly, the average cost of food in the United Kingdom is $82 (£62) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.


  • Food2 Meals for one day
    $82
    £62

When dining out, the average daily cost for food in the United Kingdom is around $82 (£62) per person, with previous travelers spending from $33 to $204. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.

Typical meal prices in the United Kingdom are as follows:

  • Breakfast: $15 to $25
  • Lunch: $12 to $41
  • Dinner: $29 to $66
  • Coffee: $7
  • Fast Food or Street Food: $13

British food is often picked on around the world as bland and boring. While you'll still find many of the greasy pub favorites around, the country in general as elevated the quality of its cuisine. In larger cities you'll find plenty of international options and modern twists on traditional favorites. You can still enjoy meat pies or fish and chips, but if you're looking for something more, that's easily available as well.

Curry: This is the British version of Indian Curry. It often includes a meat like roast beef or fish. It's cooked with typical Indian spices and often adds some coconut for flavor. It's served with rice and is really quite delicious. It's available at most casual restaurants and pubs around town.

Haggis: This is a traditional Scottish dish that is made from a unique combination of sheep parts as well as onions, oatmeal, spices and stock. It's traditionally cooked in a sheep's stomach lining and served as a sausage.

Meat & Vegetables: The typical British dinner includes a basic meat prepared with two boiled vegetables. It's a simple dinner, but quite filling and ubiquitous. If you're invited into someone's home this is likely a meal you will be served as it's common for most British families.

Popular Culinary Destinations

If you're looking to enjoy local flavors, the United Kingdom is a fantastic destination, boasting a variety of delicious meals. A few of the best food cities are York, London, and Inverness.

York
York is one of the best culinary destinations in the United Kingdom. Meat pies, fudge, and fish and chips are just some of the culinary experiences you'll find here. The Shambles Market has vendors that sell a wide variety of cuisines. There are also food trucks throughout town that offer affordable and delicious meal options.

London
One of the best culinary spots in the United Kingdom is London. Although food here was once the butt of a number of jokes, the restaurant scene has come a long way, and you can find anything and everything around town. Head to Chinatown to try dim sum or hot pot. There are no shortage of Indian restaurants as well. If you want the best food for the lowest prices, your best bet is to get out of the touristy areas and discover where the locals eat. There are also many markets that are perfect for grabbing a unique lunch or snack. Burrough Market has a number of ethnic and seafood vendors as well as fresh produce and snack options.

Inverness
Make sure you don't miss the cuisine in Inverness. The city makes a great spot to fill your belly after a few days exploring the Scottish Highlands. You'll find local restaurants that serve up regional specialties, and when the weather's nice, there are some spots with outdoor seating.

Lake District National Park
Lake District National Park is not to be missed because of it's amazing cuisine. There's a long history of culinary arts in the region and you'll enjoy locally sourced ingredients at many restaurants. There are also a number of Michelin starred restaurants to choose from.

Cambridge
Cambridge is well known for its food scene. You'll find college pubs, local eateries, and fine dining, all in one charming town. Enjoy afternoon tea or fish chips at one of the many local restaurants around town.

Food & Dining Tips

In larger cities like London, Manchester, or Edinburgh, consider dining at upscale restaurants for lunch instead of dinner to save some money. Many restaurants in tourist and business districts have lunch specials that feature smaller and more affordable versions of their dinner menus. If you're lucky, you could enjoy a full multi-course gourmet meal at a bargain price. After that, just plan for a light dinner.

Are you considering a stay of a week or longer in London, Edinburgh, or Lake District National Park? If so, families or groups may benefit from choosing an apartment or vacation rental with a kitchen. Cooking at home with cheaper groceries can save you from the expense of eating out frequently.

If you're eating out with children, seek out restaurants that provide a kids menu. This can significantly reduce your dining expenses, as those options are generally lower priced. Some places may not showcase their kids' meals, so it's always smart to ask the waiter before ordering.

Many hotels offer breakfast as part of the room rate, but some may charge extra for it. The price and quality of breakfast can differ greatly between hotels. Being informed beforehand can help you determine if you want to spend more on that hotel buffet or if a nearby bakery or café would be a more budget-friendly option.

Keep a water bottle handy instead of splurging on drinks everywhere. Plus, it helps the environment.

If you're gearing up for a tour, make sure to verify in advance which meals are part of the deal. You might need to pay for some food yourself, which can impact your budget.

Taking a food tour or cooking class is a great way to experience the culture in the United Kingdom. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. A few of the best culinary activities here include:

  • Chester Food Tour Adventure with Drinks and Sightseeing for $115 details
  • Ultimate Soho & Chinatown Food Tour in London for $64 details
  • York on a Fork Food Tour for $89 details
  • London Exclusive Borough Market Food Tour and Baking Class for $98 details

Recommended

What did other people spend on Food?

Typical food prices in the United Kingdom, as reported by previous travelers, are outlined below. These costs offer a snapshot of what meals might cost in the city. Your personal expenses will vary depending on the type of dining experiences you choose and the dishes you order.


  • Lunch for 2
    £23
  • Lunch for 2
    £46
  • Nice lunch at Fleece
    £61
  • Coffee (2)
    £4.80
  • Turkish Delight
    £1.40
  • 2 Coffees and Scones
    £5.80
  • Soup at the Pub
    £5.90
  • Lunch for 2
    £17


Sightseeing and Activities Budget in the United Kingdom

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in the United Kingdom typically cost an average of $37 (£27) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.


  • Entertainment1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    $37
    £27
The Best Sightseeing Destinations

As a very popular travel destination, the United Kingdom allows many visitors to tick off several items from their bucket lists. Notable places to explore in the United Kingdom are London, Edinburgh, and Inverness.

London
London is a world class international city that has charming neighborhoods, iconic landmarks, and a vibrant nightlife scene. There are a diversity of attractions that offer something for everyone. Although prices can be steep, there are many free activities as well, with wandering the many markets being a favorite of many visitors.

Edinburgh
Edinburgh is a city that is grounded in history and architecture. The Old Town is filled with beautiful churches, cobblestone streets, and great restaurants. Looking over the city from a hilltop is the famed Edinburgh Castle. There are also countless museums around town as well the popular Harry Potter Trail.

Inverness
Inverness is the largest city in the Scottish Highlands, and it is rich in the regional culture. You'll find local restaurants and festivals that really bring the area's heritage to life. The area also has a beautiful natural setting with nearby hikes and scenic spots.

Windsor
Many people head to Windsor as a day trip from London. The obvious purpose for visiting is to explore the Windsor Castle, which most visitors explore in a few hours. Also in the area is Legoland as well as several impressive parks and gardens.

Bath
Bath is a town seeped in history. Visitors flock to the city to explore the Roman Baths, but the city itself is filled with architecture and a charming atmosphere. There are restaurants, shopping, and a great nightlife that make this a popular destination for tourists.

Sightseeing Tips

Some of the most picturesque locations in the United Kingdom include Windsor, Bath, and Lake District National Park. These incredibly beautiful destinations will create lasting memories, so don't forget to include them on your itinerary.

The country's beautiful hiking trails bring in many visitors eager to see the amazing viewpoint and beautiful natural areas. Some of the best areas for hiking are near Lake District National Park, Isle of Skye, and Snowdonia National Park.

Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore the United Kingdom. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:

  • Bath Tour - 3 Hour Private Tour with Local Guide, £200 per group for $136 details
  • Walking Tours in Inverness City Centre for $20 details
  • Stonehenge Private Tour - Half-Day Tour from Bath for $269 details
  • Walking Tour around Spitalfields in the East End of London for $88 details

Recommended Activities

What did other people spend on Entertainment?

Below are a few common prices for sightseeing and activity entry fees in the United Kingdom, all of which are based on the reports of previous travelers. These figures should give you a rough estimate of what you can expect to pay. Keep in mind, though, your costs will vary depending on the activities you choose and whether you take advantage of free or budget-friendly options.


  • Lunch for 2
    £17
  • Lunch
    £12
  • Comedy Show
    £8.00
  • London Pass
    £47
  • Warwick Castle (2)
    £59
  • Thermal Bath Spa
    £35
  • Luss Highland Games Entrance Fee (for 2)
    £12
  • Two Bike Rental
    £34


Nightlife Budget in the United Kingdom

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • The average person spends about $17 (£13) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in the United Kingdom per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.


  • Alcohol2 Drinks for one day
    $17
    £13
Popular Nightlife Destinations

The United Kingdom is a must-visit for nightlife lovers, as it attracts crowds from around the world eager to experience its legendary scene. Top nightlife cities include London, Glasgow, and Edinburgh.

London
London is one of the best nightlife destinations in the United Kingdom. Some of the best neighborhoods for nightlife are Camden, West End, Soho, and Shoreditch. There are many festivals, concerts, and shows worth checking out and the nightlife scene is diverse enough that there really is something for everyone.

Glasgow
Visitors love the nightlife in Glasgow. The city has some of the best nightlife in the entire country. There are clubs, bars, techno warehouses and more. Some of the best clubs include Sub Club, The Berkeley Suite, and The Garage.

Edinburgh
The nightlife in Edinburgh is quite popular. With so many students, the nightlife stays very active. There are a wide range of bars and clubs to choose from as well as some of the country's oldest pubs. Tourists tend to frequent the Old Town area, but you'll find more locals if you head to the student and university areas.

York
When the sun goes down, the party picks up in York. The young population and thriving tourist scene means there's no shortage of nightlife around town. Check out a pub or music venue to experience everything that city has to offer.

Manchester
The nightlife scene is a highlight for many young visitors in Manchester. The nightlife scene is diverse and high energy. Head to Deansgate or the Northern Quarter for some of the best nightlife venues. You'll also find a huge rave scene in town.

Nightlife Tips

Hitting the town is a blast, but easing up on drinks can have a positive impact on your budget.

Tasting tours and nightlife activities are very popular in the United Kingdom. A few of the favorites from previous visitors include:

  • Shakespeare Distillery Tour - 11am Ticket for $27 details
  • McConnell's Distillery Experience with Tasting for $27 details
  • Four hour walking wine tasting tour of Manchester's best bars for $108 details
  • The Great British Pub Walking Tour: London for $20 details

Recommended

What did other people spend on Alcohol?

Below are some common prices for alcohol and nightlife in the United Kingdom, based on actual traveler experiences. While these numbers offer an idea of what you might spend, your costs will vary depending on how often you drink and the amount you order. If you're aiming to save money, cutting back on alcohol is a great way to lower your travel expenses.


  • Half Pint at Tollbooth Tavern
    £1.65
  • Ciders at Kilted Skirlie
    £3.50
  • Bottle of Wine
    £12
  • Drinks at the Walnut Pub (for 2)
    £10
  • Pitcher of Pimms
    £15
  • Drinks at the Pub (for 2)
    £7.55
  • Beer & Wine
    £14
  • Beers
    £8.00


Travel Costs Last Updated: Mar 9, 2025
Stonehenge, England Stonehenge, England

Budgeting and Travel Tips

  • If you're heading to the United Kingdom during the summer months, be prepared for bigger crowds and higher prices. Hotels tend to fill up quickly, and accommodation costs can climb steeply. For those who want to avoid the rush and keep their expenses down, visiting in the shoulder or low seasons is the way to go.
  • Tourist hotspots such as London, Edinburgh, and Inverness tend to attract many visitors, so get ready for more people and higher prices during the peak season. You can expect large crowds and popular sites to have extensive wait times, sold-out tickets, and premium rates. In all areas, but especially in these destinations, it's smart to make reservations months in advance whenever possible.
  • Certain spots tend to attract visitors who like to stick around for a bit longer. In places like London, Edinburgh, and Lake District National Park, it's not unusual for travelers to settle in for a week or more to fully soak up the vibe. Families, especially those with kids, often opt for an apartment or vacation rental to make the most of their stay. Not only do you get more room to spread out, but you also have the bonus of a kitchen and other homey perks, which can really help keep costs down.
  • If you're a backpacker or a young budget traveler, this country has got you covered. You'll discover loads of hostels and wallet-friendly activities in various spots. If you're looking to connect with fellow travelers, London, Edinburgh, and Lake District National Park are awesome places to stay inexpensively, meet new friends, and have a great time.
  • Lots of couples find the United Kingdom to be the perfect spot for a fun or relaxing honeymoon. Whether you're after a romantic escape or an adventurous weekend getaway, this country has a ton of amazing places to explore with your special someone. Some of the most enchanting spots to check out are London, Bath, and Snowdonia National Park.
  • A trip to the United Kingdom is a favorite among many families. There are lots of wonderful locations perfect for a family vacation, including London, York, and Edinburgh. Children will be thrilled with the kid-friendly attractions, and adults will have just as much fun.

Budgeting Challenges

  • When traveling with small children, it's sometimes more convenient to rely on a private vehicle or taxi instead of public transit. Of course, this will come with a higher price tag.
  • For families, many hotels in London are not large enough to accommodate a family of four. Space can be tight, so be prepared to find a larger hotel or pay for two rooms.

York Castle Walls, England York Castle Walls, England
Expert Advice from Local Travelers

We're asking our community members and registered users to contribute their experiences about the United Kingdom.

Why would you recommend the United Kingdom to budget travelers? Or, why not?

This was one of the more expensive countries that we visited in Europe. If you really need to save money, avoid London, which was crazy expensive.

guywhopackslight
-
Dec 7 2023

How can you save money during your time in the United Kingdom?

We got the family pass for the trains, which saved us a ton of money on train tickets. We bought it before we arrived and used it on all of our tickets.

Nickie_483
-
Jan 23 2024
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Traveling in the United Kingdom
United Kingdom Edinburgh

The United Kingdom is made up of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. The history of the area is prolific and the literary, political, and cultural influence of this country dates back centuries. The UK is a favorite travel destination for those interested in history or literature. The area is diverse in that it has cosmopolitan cities, quaint villages, and beautiful countryside. Many people use London as a jumping off point for exploring all of Europe because the international flights into the city are some of the cheapest in the region.

Traveling around the country is fairly easy, although it can be quite expensive. Trains connect many parts of the country and tickets should be purchased well in advance if you're hoping to get a decent deal. There are sometimes discounts available so do some research ahead of time to learn what package best suits your needs. Buses travel throughout the entire country and, although they are not as convenient as in Italy or Germany, they are still a reliable and slightly more affordable option. If you're really hoping to spend a good amount of time in the countryside, it really is best to rent a car. Prices can be high but the benefit is obvious as this allows you to see villages at your own pace and head into more rural areas that aren't accessible by public transportation.

The area is well known as an expensive travel destination, even by European standards. In particular, you can expect the bulk of your money to go towards transportation, accommodation, and food. Transportation costs are generally unavoidable, but by slowing down your trip and visiting less cities and towns you'll dramatically cut down on your overall trip cost. If you're willing to partake in serious cost-saving measures, hostels are available in most touristy areas but they remain quite expensive as well. Couchsurfing is a great option if you're on a particularly tight budget. Food can be more affordable if you by it at a supermarket or head to the pub for fish and chips. While it's almost impossible to visit this country cheaply, there are some things you can do to keep your budget a little more in check.

At A Glance
  • London is notoriously expensive. It's easily the cheapest city to fly into, but once you arrive you'll find your money quickly disappears. If you're hoping to keep costs down, spend more time in the other areas around the United Kingdom and less time in London. In the more rural communities you'll find that your expenses are far less.

  • The countries that make up the United Kingdom each have their own set of bank holidays. Look at a calender before you schedule your trip to make sure that your vacation does not overlap any of these bank holidays. If it does, you will find that prices are higher and attractions are more crowded.

  • There are many discount airlines that fly into and out of London and the United Kingdom. If you book tickets through one of these airlines, make sure that you understand all of the restrictions as well as what's included in the price. Some flights fly into inconvenient airports as well, so confirm that there are transportation connections available to where you need to go.

  • If you're traveling by train, there are usually discounts available for children or groups. Also, there are regional railcards available if you plan to take several different trips within the area. Research all of the restrictions on these cards prior to purchasing them. If you do decide to buy single tickets, it is best to buy them in advance when the prices are often lower. Great Britain is an area where you will benefit from having a set schedule and itinerary in advance of your trip.

  • There are several different bus companies available throughout the country. The buses are usually of high quality and they generally run on schedule. The more popular bus companies include National Express, Megabus, CityLink, and Dot2Dot. Some companies are focused on specific regions, while other serve the entire country. Some companies are also notoriously cheaper than others.

Related:

Traveling alone to London or Edinburgh?

Looking for a party and need a hostel in London?

Find a Contiki tour to Europe.

Top Tourist Attractions

Stonehenge: One of the most famous sights in the United Kingdom, Stonehenge is an impressive circle of stone rocks that is believed to date back to 3100 BC. While the purpose is unknown, their positioning and size is really quite impressive.

Tower Bridge: Tower Bridge is located in London and crosses the Thames River. It is the most famous bridge in the country as well as one of the most famous in the world. It was built in 1894 with the help of over 50 architects.

Lake Windermere: Lake Windermere is in Cumbria and is two miles in length and one mile wide. It is included as part of the Lake District National Park and is a popular tourist destination any time of year.



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We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.



1 Categories averaged on a per-item basis.
2 Categories averaged on a per-day basis.
For example, the Food2 daily average is for all meals for an entire day, while Entertainment1 is for each individual purchase. Thus, the overall daily average cost is not a summation of the individual categories.


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