With this Dover travel cost guide, you can explore average prices and plan a trip that fits your budget. The Dover trip cost calculator uses travel expense data from thousands of previous visitors, including typical hotel costs, food and dining prices, entertainment and sightseeing expenses, and transportation information. Dover is a breathtaking town known for the famous White Cliffs of Dover as well as the ferry connection to mainland Europe, so don't make a budget mistake that causes you to miss out on something important. This guide will help you plan the best trip to Dover and stay within your ideal travel budget, whether you're hiking in nature or taking in the beauty.
How much does it cost to travel to Dover?
A typical traveler spends $201 (£152) per day on a trip to Dover. This is the average daily price for a vacation in Dover based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $87 (£66) on meals
- $51 (£39) on local transportation
- $163 (£123) on hotels
A one-week trip to Dover for two people costs, on average, $2,817 (£2,128). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from thousands of other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
Is Dover expensive to visit?
In Dover, budget travelers spend $89 (£66) per day on average, mid-range travelers spend $204 (£152) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $390 (£290) per day. These costs are calculated from the reported expenses of previous travelers to Dover.
Dover is a small yet captivating town that lures visitors with differing travel styles, spending levels, and budgetary preferences. Affordable hotel choices are available, but luxury hotels also cater to the more affluent clientele, along with mid-range accommodations that are perfect for families and couples.
While Dover can be quite expensive if you let it be, there are ways to lower your spending, such as eating at less expensive restaurants and enjoying the free hiking trails.
Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, Dover is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Berlin or Hofn.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Dover Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Dover?
The average Dover trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Dover travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Dover cost?
Dover on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$36
(£27)
|
$82
(£62)
|
$156
(£118)
|
|
Local Transportation1
|
$22
(£17)
|
$51
(£39)
|
$98
(£74)
|
|
Food2
|
$38
(£29)
|
$87
(£66)
|
$166
(£126)
|
|
Entertainment1
|
$11
(£8.56)
|
$26
(£20)
|
$50
(£37)
|
|
Alcohol2
|
$2-7
(£2-5)
|
$5-15
(£4-12)
|
$10-29
(£7-22)
|
Accommodation Budget in Dover
In Dover, hotel prices can swing drastically. Higher-end hotels offer more luxury, but come at a cost, especially in peak summer season when prices are higher. Off-season prices are more reasonable, averaging $112, but during peak season they jump to an average of $209. You can find budget options starting at $88 up to luxury rates at $310. Hostels are typically cheaper, especially dorms. Book early and avoid peak season to save money.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Dover for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $163 (£123). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $82 (£62) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Dover? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
The most affordable highest rated hotels in Dover include:
- Premier Inn Dover Central Eastern Ferry Terminal starting at $125
- The Norman Guest House starting at $89
If you plan your trip for the shoulder or low season and avoid summer, you'll enjoy reduced accommodation costs and fewer tourists.
Transportation Budget in Dover
Unfortunately, Dover does not have a reliable public transit network. There are public buses through the district.
If you stick to certain areas, Dover is fairly walkable, making it convenient to see the sights. You can wander around the countryside, but prepare for rolling hills and great views.
Public Transit: 
(moderate)
Walkability: (good)
Calculated from travelers like you
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On average, past travelers have spent $51 (£39) per person, per day, on local transportation in Dover. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Dover is significantly more than public transportation.
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Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$51
£39
For those traveling internationally, Gatwick Airport is the closest major airport, located almost 80 miles west of Dover. London City Airport is about the same distance. From the airports, travelers can take a car along the A2 and M2 to reach Dover, or arrange for a ride on the National Express coach service.
The town's proximity to continental Europe via the English Channel also makes international travel by ferry a popular option. Regular ferries run from Dover to Calais and Dunkirk in France.
If you're driving, it's essential to check if your hotel offers convenient parking.
Some of the standard transportation options and hotel transfers include:
- Private Transfer from Dover Cruise Port to London Airport (LHR) for $200 details
- Private transfer from Dover to London hotel or airport for $222 details
- Private Transfer from Dover Cruise Port to London City Hotels for $200 details
How much does it cost to go to Dover? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Dover will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
Food Budget in Dover
Cuisine in Dover is good, but it's not well known enough to draw in tourists for the restaurant scene. Still, there are a handful of excellent dining spots in the town to discover. The town has a growing food scene that includes waterfront restaurants and local dishes. Find a restaurant with a view to make sure you take full advantage of the setting.
Calculated from travelers like you
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While restaurant and meal prices in Dover can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Dover is $87 (£66) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
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Food2
Meals for one day
$87
£66
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Dover is around $88 (£66) per person, with previous travelers spending from $39 to $169. 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 Dover are as follows:
- Breakfast: $9 to $27
- Lunch: $13 to $35
- Dinner: $27 to $62
- Coffee: $7
- Fast Food or Street Food: $13
Traditional fare of England consists of anything you might find in a British pub-fish and chips, bangers and mash (sausages and mashed potatoes), stews, soups, and just about any kind of meat pie you could ask for (often called pasties). A few additional specialties include black pudding (black sausage), steak and kidney pudding, pickled eggs, and plenty of coffee and tea shops. With England's imperial history, curry is also a very popular specialty in many British towns and cities, including Dover. Some of the best Indian cuisine in Dover can be found at the Curry Garden Restaurant. English pubs can be found just about everywhere (one of the most popular is the White Horse Inn), but there are also restaurants serving international fare like Italian or Chinese.
A lot of hotels include breakfast in their price, but some may add it as an extra charge. The price and quality can differ from one hotel to the next. Being aware of this ahead of time can help you figure out if you'll need to shell out more money. The hotel buffet could be delicious, or you might opt for a more affordable treat at a nearby bakery or cafe.
You can save money and appreciate the scenery by enjoying a picnic. Stop by a local grocery store or market, grab some fresh food, and find a lovely park or scenic area to enjoy your meal.
Keep a water bottle with you to cut down on drink purchases. It's also better for the environment.
Before embarking on a tour, ensure you know which meals are included. You might have to pay for some food yourself, and that can add to your travel expenses.
If you're looking to experience the culinary culture in Dover, taking a food tour or cooking class is a terrific way to do it. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. Some of the best food-related activities here include:
- Canterbury Food Tour: Discover Culinary Delights for $175 details
- Dover to London with Borough Market Food Tour for $272 details
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Dover
It's not surprising that visitors come to Dover, as it offers hiking, romance, museums and attractions, and food.
Calculated from travelers like you
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Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Dover typically cost an average of $26 (£20) 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.
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Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$26
£20
The White Cliffs of Dover have been an icon of Britain for centuries. The walks along these cliff tops are exhilarating with striking views of the English Channel below. Above these white cliffs is another icon of the area-Dover Castle. Representing 2,000 years of history, the castle grounds feature a Roman Lighthouse, the Great Tower of King Henry II, an underground hospital used during World War II, the tunnels where the Dunkirk evacuation was masterminded, and additional underground tunnels that served purposes of shelter, safety, and secrecy for the defense of Dover over many wars from Napoleonic times to the Cold War. The South Foreland Lighthouse is another landmark on these cliffs, the site of Faraday’s work in pioneering the use of electricity in lighthouses, and the first to display an electrically powered signal.
Another unique remnant of the town's ancient history is the Roman Painted House. Built about AD 200, the structure served as a part of a villa or hotel for travelers. The ruins include painted murals, underfloor heating systems (known as hypocaust), and a massive fort wall built later for defense. There are also a number of museums worth a visit, such as St Margaret’s Museum with changing displays on local history, and Dover Museum, which houses an award-winning Bronze Age Boat Gallery amongst other exhibits.
On a visit to Dover, one can spend time sightseeing, walking along the iconic white cliffs, visiting museums, discovering the region's ancient past, and more. One unique way to see the cliffs is to arrange a coastal tour on Dover Sea Safari's speed boat, the Dover Explorer. Highlights include cliff views, wildlife watching, and more leisurely yacht tours.
Visitors can also walk the scenic North Downs Way, a walking trail that follows the low hills running alongside the coast. It stretches about 246 kilometers (153 miles) from Farnham to Dover, past Guildford, Dorking, Merstham, Otford, and Rochester, along the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and Kent Downs AONB.
Another enjoyable activity is to take one of East Kent Railway's steam train rides. The journey offers an experience along a four-mile heritage railway running through some of Kent's beautiful countryside.
Hiking:
Outdoor enthusiasts will love the hiking near Dover. There are many beautiful countryside walks that take you through the rolling hills and along the iconic white cliffs. Some of the best hikes in the area include The England Coast Path, The North Downs Way
Saxon Shore Way.
A nice way to explore destinations in Dover is with local tours that last just a few hours. This way you can see as much as possible in an efficient way with knowledgable guides. 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:
- Small-Group City Running Tour in Canterbury for $28 details
- The Highlights of Canterbury - a One Hour Historical Walking Tour for $40 details
- The Canterbury Classic Tour for $20 details
Nightlife Budget in Dover
You'll find that the nightlife in Dover is rather subdued and tranquil. The nightlife has a relaxed atmosphere with wine bars and microbreweries.
Calculated from travelers like you
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The average person spends about $10 (£7.71) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Dover per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
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Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$10
£7.71
Nights out are fun, but limiting your alcohol consumption can help keep your travel costs in check.
Nightlife activities and tasting tours are popular in Dover. A few favorites from other travelers include:
- Full Day Wine Tour in Sussex and Kent for $249 details
Travel cost data last updated: May 4, 2026
Traveling in Dover
The cliffs of Dover
Dover is a major port town on the English Channel, and the closest port in the United Kingdom to the rest of continental Europe. It is best known for its white cliffs, pubs, and Roman history.
Neighborhoods & Around
Dover's streets are lined with options for dining, shopping, entertainment, and overnight accommodations. Additional information on events, as well as city maps, can be found at the Dover Visitor Information Centre, located in the Dover Museum on Market Square. Around Dover, there are also a number of towns and villages worth visiting, some of which include Folkestone (6 miles), Deal (7 miles), Elham (8 miles), and Sandwich (10 miles). Each town has its own unique features-Folkestone has a coastal park and well-preserved maritime history, Deal also has a rich maritime past as well as a beautiful promenade and restored pier, Elham is known for its medieval church, Tudor houses, and rolling hills, and Sandwich is perhaps the most well-preserved medieval town in Britain also with Tudors and churches. Dover and these surrounding villages all have a variety of pubs, shops, and quality restaurants.
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
To manage your travel budget, it's important to set realistic expectations. Many people think they can visit Dover on a cheap budget, but most don't enjoy the limitations of a tight shoestring budget. Consider how you like to travel. Do you enjoy hostels, resorts, hotels, or vacation rentals? Do you want to dine out and explore the major attractions? These decisions will determine your budget and itinerary.
The Truth on Budget Travel
You may believe you're traveling on a budget, but unless you're ready to give up some conveniences, you'll likely spend much more than the $89 daily average that backpackers get away with.
Younger budget travelers often stick to this low budget by staying in dorms, eating inexpensive meals, taking public transportation, and focusing on free activities and sights.
Do You Identify as an Average Traveler?
If you're a couple or a family traveling for fun, you'll likely want to stay in a mid-range hotel, eat at popular restaurants, and visit the major museums and attractions which have entry fees. Many visitors to Dover are keen to visit the prominent attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks. Most activities cost money, after all. Therefore, it's realistic to expect your actual daily budget to be closer to $204 per person, per day.
Seeking a Stylish Getaway from the Daily Routine?
If you're looking for an all encompassing trip with every amenity and a higher level of service, then prepare yourself for a price tag closer to $390 per day. To stay in a nicer hotel, eat at award winning restaurants, splurge on extravagant excursions, and take taxis or private drivers to get around the town, you'll need to be prepared for a more "luxury" set of prices. Many luxury travelers also enjoy unique experiences such as Private Guided Walking Tour of Canterbury - offered by Viator.
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.
