City breaks on a budget

We get it – money’s tight for all of us right now. But that doesn’t mean you have to miss out on all the luxuries of life. It’s still possible to book a getaway and escape the daily grind even when travelling on a budget, especially if you choose a quick city break. If you’re keen to get out and explore while still watching the pennies, check out our top 10 tips for city breaks on a budget.

Once you’re ready, check out our best city breaks.

1. First Choice to the rescue

Okay, an obvious one to start. But we have great deals on our city breaks, whether you’re staying local or venturing to cities around the world, so you can get the most for your money. Plus, if you’re feeling spontaneous, check out our last-minute city breaks – you’ll find good discounts on trips departing soon.

2. Emotional baggage

If you’re choosing to fly to your city break, you’ll save money by opting for hand luggage only on your flight. If you’re prepared to pack especially frugally, many of our trusted airline partners offer a fare with just one bag allowed (the one that goes under the seat in front), so prepare to roll your socks and use the hotel shower gel for instant savings.

3. Date night

Predictably, some dates are pricier than others. A Friday-to-Sunday stay is an instant money grabber, as is a trip over a bank holiday or half term. If you can spare the annual leave, midweek trips are usually the cheapest – even just shifting from Thursday to Saturday can save you precious pounds.

4. Location, location, location

Unsurprisingly, some spots will be spennier than others – three nights in New York is more than a round trip to Rome, for example. Similarly, the most popular points will see a premium for hotel stays. Try broadening your search based on the country – can you swap Barcelona for Seville, or Venice for Verona to head away from the tourist traps in the search for savings?

5. Stay central – yes, really

Yes, accommodation right in the city centre is usually more expensive, but often, the out-of-town stays mean pricey public transport costs to get to and from the action. If you’re heading back and forth throughout your stay, do the maths to see if a more central stay will work out cheaper.

6. Embrace the hostel life

Hostelling isn’t for everyone, but if you’re going to be out exploring more than you’ll be in your hotel room, you can save money by booking into a hostel. While it may conjure up images of sharing with 20 students in bunk beds, a lot of hostels have smaller dorm rooms for as few as four people, and you can often pick a bed in a separate male or female dorm. Some hostels even have private rooms for two or three people, so although you’ll have to share a bathroom in order to save a few quid, you’ll get peace and quiet overnight. If a hostel is a step too far, though, we have a selection of other budget accommodation available.

7. Find the freebies

A lot of the cultural fun, such as museum exhibitions or landmark tours, come with a hefty price tag. But there’s plenty to do in the big cities for free (or just a few pounds) if you know where to look, from entry to smaller exhibits to walking tours hosted by enthusiastic locals. Take a look online – or speak to the staff in your hotel – for their suggestions.

8. Street-food snacking

If you’re anything like us, one of the draws of experiencing a new city is the food that comes with it. Save on expensive restaurant meals by checking out local food markets or street-food stalls, usually covering everything from fresh fruit and juices to hot-cooked dinner and sweet treats. You’ll quickly fill up on local snacks while you take in the city.

9. Ready to roam

No, this isn’t the 2000s – you should still remember to check your phone’s data roaming package. Sadly, since Brexit, a lot of network providers have changed their T&Cs, so you may have to opt into a new add-on or pay for a daily pass to access international roaming while you’re in the EU. Same applies if you’re venturing further afield – a trip to Turkey or Morocco, for example, will likely cost you extra, regardless of your phone contract. Check before you go away to prevent any unexpected bills when you get back.

10. Just don’t scrimp on the essentials

While you may want to save as many pounds as possible to spend on food and drink while you’re away, some things aren’t worth cutting out. Top of this list is travel insurance – buy it when you book your trip to cover you in case things get cancelled or postponed, saving you losing out on money should you need it. Similarly, investing in a solid suitcase or travel bag should ensure it’ll stand the test of time, and multiple trips should you wish to tick more cities off your travel wishlist.