Travel Budget for Saint Andrews Visit Saint Andrews on a Budget or Travel in Style

Saint Andrews, Scotland, United Kingdom

Saint Andrews is a historic university town known for its reputation as the birthplace of golf. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation. Whether you're eating the delicious cuisine or taking in the beauty, we'll help you plan the ideal trip to Saint Andrews that stays within your budget.

How much does it cost to travel to Saint Andrews?

You should plan to spend around $322 (£260) per day on your vacation in Saint Andrews. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

  • $132 (£107) on meals
  • $65 (£53) on local transportation
  • $288 (£232) on hotels

A one week trip to Saint Andrews for two people costs, on average, $4,511 (£3,640). 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
    $322
    £260
  • One Week Per person
    $2,256
    £1,820
  • 2 Weeks Per person
    $4,511
    £3,640
  • One Month Per person
    $9,667
    £7,800
  • One Week For a couple
    $4,511
    £3,640
  • 2 Weeks For a couple
    $9,022
    £7,280
  • One Month For a couple
    $19,334
    £15,600
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 Saint Andrews cost?

A one week trip to Saint Andrews usually costs around $2,256 (£1,820) for one person and $4,511 (£3,640) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Saint Andrews on average costs around $4,511 (£3,640) for one person and $9,022 (£7,280) 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 Saint Andrews will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Saint Andrews on average costs around $9,667 (£7,800) for one person and $19,334 (£15,600) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.




Is Saint Andrews expensive to visit?

Saint Andrews is a charming destination that draws in visitors with an array of travel preferences, spending habits, and budgetary choices. Visitors can find a range of options for accommodation from high-end luxury hotels to mid-range places to budget-friendly hostels.

Although Saint Andrews can be quite pricey if you let it be, you can cut costs by eating at less expensive restaurants and taking public transit.

On average, budget travelers spend $143 (£114) per day, mid-range travelers spend $327 (£260) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $624 (£497) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Saint Andrews.

Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, Saint Andrews is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Zurich or Dundee.

For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Saint Andrews Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to Saint Andrews?

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

Saint Andrews on a Budget
Category Budget Mid-Range Luxury
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
$63
(£51)
$144
(£116)
$275
(£222)
Local Transportation 1 $29
(£23)
$65
(£53)
$122
(£98)
Food 2 $58
(£47)
$132
(£107)
$253
(£204)
Entertainment 1 $25
(£20)
$56
(£45)
$107
(£87)
Alcohol 2 $7-21
(£6-17)
$16-49
(£13-39)
$31-93
(£25-75)

Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget

When planning your trip to Saint Andrews, it's important to have realistic expectations about your budget. Many believe they can travel on a shoestring, but that often leads to either uncomfortable travel experiences or some surprisingly high expenses. Consider your vacation style. Do you enjoy staying in hostels, resorts, regular hotels, or vacation rentals? Are attractions and dining experiences a priority? These factors will affect how much you spend and your itinerary.

What Defines a Budget Traveler?

You might think that you're a budget traveler. But unless you're willing to eliminate a lot of comforts from your trip, prepare to spend a lot more than the daily average of $143 that backpackers often get by on.

Young backpackers often get away with this shoestring budget, but it usually involves staying in hostel dorms, eating at the cheapest restaurants or fast food places, taking public transit or walking, and only visiting free attractions.

Food is a standout attraction for all visitors to Saint Andrews, but those on a budget might rely on street food or cook in their hostels, which could mean less exposure to the fantastic local dishes.

So, are you average?

As a couple or family looking for fun, you're likely to choose a mid-range hotel, dine at popular restaurants, and explore the major museums and attractions with entry fees. Most visitors to Saint Andrews will want to visit the major attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks. After all, most activities do cost money. Therefore, it's sensible to expect your daily budget to be approximately $327 per person, per day.

Dreaming of a Stylish Getaway?

If a complete vacation with all amenities and a higher level of service is what you want, expect to allocate around $624 per day. To stay in nicer hotels, dine at award-winning establishments, treat yourself to extravagant excursions, and hire taxis or private drivers to navigate the university town, a luxury budget will be necessary. Also, higher-end tours are common with luxury travelers, such as Private St. Andrews Tour with Dedicated Local Guide - offered by Viator.

Accommodation Budget in Saint Andrews

The wide range of prices for hotels and accommodation in Saint Andrews can be very surprising. Some hotels have much higher price tags than others, and in turn offer higher levels of luxury and more amenities. Also, during peak season, prices are much higher. The average price for a hotel room in Saint Andrews in the off-season is $0, but in the peak summer travel season it will average around $0. In general, you can expect hotel prices in Saint Andrews to range from $0 to $0. Hostels are typically much cheaper, especially if you stay in a dorm. Also, note that the average hotel price is not always what travelers will pay (see below). You can save a good bit of money if you travel during the low season or shoulder seasons, as room prices adjust according to the overall demand. Booking in advance can often save you money, too, along with taking advantage of sale prices or special deals.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid in Saint Andrews for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $288 (£232). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $144 (£116) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.

  • Accommodation1 Hotel or hostel for one person
    $144
    £116
  • Accommodation1 Typical double-occupancy room
    $288
    £232

Hotels in Saint Andrews

Looking for a hotel in Saint Andrews? 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.

Tips to Save Money on Accommodation in Saint Andrews

With Saint Andrews's good public transit, staying on the outskirts of the university town is possible to save money, but the transportation costs and commute time could add up quickly.

By avoiding the peak summer season and traveling in the low or shoulder seasons, you will be rewarded with lower accommodation prices and fewer crowds.

Because Saint Andrews is such a small university town, you may not see a wide variety of hotel options, so it's best to stay flexible.



Transportation Budget in Saint Andrews

The public transit in Saint Andrews is quite good and serves many major spots. There are buses through St. Andrews. Public transportation is a great money-saving choice if it's accessible to where you're headed. Taxis and rideshares are also widely available in town.

You'll find that Saint Andrews is quite walkable in specific locations, making it easier to visit the sights. Parts of the town are compact enough to explore on foot.

Public Transit:  starstarstarstarstar (good)
Walkability:      starstarstarstarstar (good)

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • On average, past travelers have spent $65 (£53) per person, per day, on local transportation in Saint Andrews. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Saint Andrews is significantly more than public transportation.

  • Transportation1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    $65
    £53

Transportation Tips

If you're driving, make sure your hotel has convenient parking.

Some of the standard transportation options and hotel transfers include:

  • Edinburgh Airport to St Andrews Transfer for $203 details

Recommended Services


Flights to Saint Andrews
How much does it cost to go to Saint Andrews? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.

Rental Cars in Saint Andrews
The price of renting a car in Saint Andrews 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 Saint Andrews

In Saint Andrews, the food is fantastic, and you should definitely take the opportunity to enjoy all the local flavors. The town holds on to its history and heritage, and that stands out with the restaurant selection. There are a range of of independent cafes and pubs and surprisingly few major chain restaurants and fast food joints.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • While restaurant and meal prices in Saint Andrews can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Saint Andrews is $132 (£107) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.

  • Food2 Meals for one day
    $132
    £107

When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Saint Andrews is around $134 (£107) per person, with previous travelers spending from $59 to $256. 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 Saint Andrews are as follows:

  • Breakfast: $13 to $40
  • Lunch: $20 to $54
  • Dinner: $40 to $94
  • Coffee: $11
  • Fast Food or Street Food: $20

Saint Andrews is a great place to sample traditional pub fare-items like 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 in the UK include black pudding (black sausage), steak and kidney pudding, pickled eggs, and plenty of coffee and tea shops. One particularly tasty snack in Saint Andrews is "chips and cheese"-steak fries smothered in salt, vinegar, and melted cheese-the perfect pub grub to accompany any cold brew. Being a popular tourist destination, however, Saint Andrews also has international options to please any palette, including Chinese, Indian, Italian, and Thai. In addition to pubs and bars, there are plenty of cafes, delis, takeaway, and food shops, as well as both casual and fine dining.

Food in Saint Andrews

Food & Dining Tips

Many hotels provide breakfast at no additional cost, while others charge extra. The quality and price can vary widely from hotel to hotel. Knowing this ahead of time can help you decide if you should budget more. You might find the hotel's buffet is a worthwhile investment, or perhaps a nearby bakery or cafe could be a cheaper alternative.

Why not save some bucks and enjoy the sights by having a picnic? Stop by a local grocery store or market, grab some fresh food, and head to a nice park or beautiful spot to enjoy your meal.

Fill up a water bottle rather than buying drinks every chance you get. It's also kinder to the earth.

Thinking about a tour? Check which meals are included beforehand. You might need to budget for some meals on your own, which can add to your expenses.



Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Saint Andrews

It's understandable that travelers choose Saint Andrews, as it is famous for food, romance, museums and attractions, and nightlife.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Saint Andrews typically cost an average of $56 (£45) 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.
    $56
    £45

Founded in 1413, the University of Saint Andrews grew out of the cathedral, and has flourished today into a bustling university of about 7,000 students. One of its most famous alumnus is Prince William, who attended in the early 2000s, but the campus is also known for its magnificent historical architecture. The 16th century St. Salvador's chapel is one such landmark, located within the historic Quadrangle of St. Salvator’s College on North Street. On South Street there is also the historic quadrangle of St. Mary’s College, which features buildings like Lower Parliament Hall, the School of Psychology (which was formerly the University Library), and a famous tree on the right hand side of the quad that was planted by Mary Queen of Scots.

There are also a number of historic landmarks outside of the university. Visitors can explore the ruins of Saint Andrews Castle overlooking the sea, home of the Bishops of Saint Andrews before the Reformation. The structure was also a fortress and prison before it was left to ruin in the 17th century. Also nearby are the remnants of Saint Andrews Cathedral and Saint Rule’s Tower. There is a museum that tells the history of the cathedral and visitors can climb the tower for spectacular views of the town.

Other attractions include the Saint Andrews Botanic Garden, Saint Andrews Preservation Trust Museum and Gardens, both of which featured beautifully landscaped gardens, as well as an Aquarium, British Golf Museum, Saint Andrews Museum, and the Pier and Harbor area.



In addition to the historic lure of the university and surrounding castle ruins, Saint Andrews also draws visitors for its association with golf. The main golf course can be difficult and expensive to access, so golf enthusiasts should contact The Royal and Ancient Golf Club (one of the oldest in the world) well in advance. However, there are many other golf courses that serve great alternatives for playing. The famous Old Course hosts the Dunhill Cup each October and the Open Championship every five years.

Saint Andrews also has access to a handful of beaches. West Sands and East Sand are the largest and second largest respectively, and are both accessible from the Scores, while Castle Sands is the smallest and is located just below the castle.

Additionally, Saint Andrews can be experienced via sightseeing tours, ghost tours, golf trips, and other group and guided activities. There's plenty to keep you occupied here, it's not just all about golf. Check out this great guide with 24 things to do in St. Andrews for more information.

Sightseeing Tips

Shopping:
Make sure to check out the shopping here, as it's a fun experience. The town is filled with boutique shops and local markets where you can buy unique items like artisan food, handmade crafts, or local art.

A nice way to explore destinations in Saint Andrews 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:

  • Private St. Andrews: Home of Golf Old Course Walking Tour for $163 details
  • The Original St Andrews Photo Shoot Tour for $82 details
  • Rebels, Romance & Raisins St. Andrew's Walking Audio Tour for $7 details

Recommended Activities


Nightlife Budget in Saint Andrews

While Saint Andrews offers some nightlife options, they aren't as bustling as those in other more popular locations. There are a large number of pubs and bars throughout the town, and you'll find students hanging out and keeping things lively.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • The average person spends about $33 (£26) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Saint Andrews per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

  • Alcohol2 Drinks for one day
    $33
    £26
Nightlife Tips

Nights out are a travel highlight, but reducing your drink tab is a smart way to stretch your budget further.

Enjoy the nightlife, but stay cautious, especially if you're drinking. Thieves or criminals may target you, so stay close to trusted friends and avoid wandering off alone.



Travel cost data last updated: Dec 22, 2024

Budgeting and Travel Tips for Saint Andrews

  • The peak season of summer typically means higher prices and more tourists. For those looking to save money and enjoy a more peaceful experience, the shoulder or low seasons are ideal.
  • Taking your time to travel can help you save, allowing you to relish the area's beauty while you unwind. Cramming too many activities into your day often leads to higher costs. By slowing down, you can typically enjoy your trip more while spending less.

Budgeting Challenges

  • Traveling with young kids means you might want to go for a private vehicle or taxi. Sometimes it's just easier to sidestep the complications of public transportation, but it can also be more expensive.
  • Saint Andrews isn't exactly teeming with hostels, so if you were hoping to find a low-cost dorm, you might want to rethink that. Finding a budget hotel or renting an apartment could be your best bet.
Traveling in Saint Andrews
Saint Andrews Saint Andrews

Saint Andrews is a small town on the east coast of Scotland, facing the North Sea. It is best known as the home of golf and host to the oldest university in Scotland, University of Saint Andrews.



Neighborhoods & Around

Saint Andrews is small enough to navigate on foot. In fact, many visitors park just outside of town and take a bus in because parking directly in town can be difficult and expensive. The cobble-stoned Market Street is the town's central thoroughfare and is lined with plenty of tourist-friendly shops and dining options. Running parallel to Market Street are North Street and South Street, which also have access to tourist shops and restaurants. The Links, located alongside the golf course on the north end of town, is more of the same, though mostly golf-themed. Generally, shops around Saint Andrews sell Scottish souvenirs, golf paraphernalia, and wool products. Visitors can also find University of Saint Andrews merchandise at the University gift shop. Additionally, there are plenty of restaurants, five supermarkets for groceries, a butcher's ship on Bell Street, a fishmonger on Market Street, and a famous bakery on Church Street.

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.