After revealing the cheapest European city breaks in 2025, it’s only fair to flip the coin and look at the other side of the travel spectrum – and the findings may surprise you! While Eastern Europe dominated the affordable list, this ranking is ruled by Northern and Western Europe’s cultural powerhouses. And one country has 2 cities in the top!
Yes, these are the most expensive city breaks in Europe for 2025, but don’t let the price tag fool you – each city is world-famous, packed with iconic attractions, festivals, and unique experiences that keep travelers coming back year after year. From Venice’s canals to Oslo’s fjords and Barcelona’s beaches, these destinations prove that some places are worth the splurge.
The 2025 report compared the average costs of 12 essential travel expenses in 38 popular European cities. This included two nights of accommodation for two people, meals, drinks, sightseeing, and public transport. The results of the latest Post Office Travel Money City Costs Barometer 2025 show that Oslo, Copenhagen, and Edinburgh take the top three spots as the priciest city breaks in Europe, with costs ranging from £540 to £636 for a short stay (I have calculated the approximate cost in € for each destination).
But here’s the thing: just because these cities are expensive doesn’t mean they’re not worth visiting. Each destination is packed with history, culture, and unforgettable experiences. To help you plan better, I’ve included not only the ranking and prices but also hidden gems and 2025 events that could make your trip more memorable.
1. Oslo, Norway – £636.20 (€744.36)
Oslo tops the list as the most expensive city break in Europe in 2025. Norway’s capital is famous for its fjords, sleek architecture, and vibrant arts scene. Costs here are high – meals and drinks can easily be double what you’d pay in Eastern Europe. Still, it is a country loved by many people – it is also my husband’s favourite!
As a fun note, last year, in a different top of the cheapest and most expensive city break destinations, Oslo ranked number 3 (top most expensive places to visit).
Hidden gem: The Bygdøy Peninsula museums (like the Fram Museum) offer an incredible look at polar exploration. If you prefer nature, hike up to Vettakollen for panoramic views over Oslofjord.
Event 2025: Oslo World Music Festival – A global music showcase highlighting artists from Africa, Latin America, Asia, and the SWANA region..
2. Copenhagen, Denmark – £628.64 (€735.52)
Copenhagen
Copenhagen is stylish, innovative, and eco-friendly, but it’s also the second most expensive European city break. Accommodation and dining out are especially pricey, though the city’s quality of life is hard to beat.
The city has a lot to offer to all its visitors and is one of the best places to visit in Europe in October, so why not start planning a city break here now?
Hidden gem: The Cisterns, a former underground water reservoir turned contemporary art space.
Event 2025: Christmas Market at Højbro Plads is great – but take advantage of the Culture Night (Kulturnatten) celebrated on October 10, 2025, when museums and cultural venues stay open late for performances and exhibitions (and many have free entry).
3. Edinburgh, Scotland – £601.50 (€703.76)
Edinburgh is a UK favorite and the third priciest city for a short European trip. The Scottish capital blends history, culture, and festivals that draw millions every year – no surprise here, as there are plenty of famous attractions and hidden gems to visit! Hotel rates and dining costs drive up expenses, especially in summer.
Hidden gem: Dean Village, a peaceful riverside neighborhood just minutes from Princes Street.
Events 2025: Here there are many cool to recommend: Edinburgh Cocktail Week – October 3–12, 2025, Oktoberfest in Princes Street Gardens – October 3–5, 2025, Edinburgh Horror Festival – October 23–26, 2025, or Scottish International Storytelling Festival – October 22–November 1.
4. Venice, Italy – £591.12 (€691.62)
ID 34701738 © Michal Bednarek | Dreamstime.com
Venice is magical – and our guide proves it -, but also one of the most expensive city breaks in Italy and Europe. Gondola rides, canalside dining, and hotel stays add up quickly. Yet few cities compare to its beauty.
Hidden gem: The island of San Giorgio Maggiore offers stunning views across the lagoon and fewer crowds than St. Mark’s.
Event 2025: Venice Glass Week – September 17–25, 2025, celebrating Venetian glass artistry.
5. Amsterdam, Netherlands – £582.79 (€681.87)
Amsterdam is known for its canals, museums, nightlife, famous attractions, and hidden gems. It’s also one of Europe’s most expensive city breaks, with hotel and dining costs particularly high.
Hidden gem: NDSM Wharf, a former shipyard turned cultural hotspot with street art, cafés, and festivals.
Event 2025: Amsterdam Dance Event (October 15–19), the world’s leading electronic music festival. Do not forget about Open Monuments Day – September 13–14, free access to historic sites or the cool Corso Zundert (Flower Parade) – September 7–8, 2025, a vibrant floral procession.
6. Geneva, Switzerland – £570.04 (€666.95)
Switzerland is notorious for its prices, and Geneva lives up to the reputation. From lakeside hotels to fine dining, this city ranks #6 on the list of Europe’s most expensive city breaks in 2025.
Hidden gem: Carouge, a bohemian neighborhood with Mediterranean flair, boutiques, and artisan cafés.
Event 2025: History Happy Hour: Random Thoughts – November 20, 2025, informal historical storytelling and visuals.
7. Dublin, Ireland – £568.34 (€664.96)
Dublin is welcoming, cultural, and fun – but it’s also pricey. Pub pints, live music, and central accommodation all add up. Still, it remains a bucket-list destination with so many wonderful places to visit!
Hidden gem: Marsh’s Library, a hidden 18th-century gem filled with rare books near St. Patrick’s Cathedral.
Event 2025: Bram Stoker Festival – Oct 24 – 27 -, a spooky, imaginative festival celebrating gothic literature and horror, named after the author of Dracula, with performances and events across Dublin.
8. Barcelona, Spain – £561.90 (€657.43)
Barcelona, one of the best cities for digital nomads, is sunny, artistic, and vibrant, but, as one of Europe’s most popular destinations, it’s also one of the priciest in 2025. Expect higher prices for hotels near the beach and Gaudí attractions.
Hidden gem: The Bunkers del Carmel viewpoint offers panoramic city views without the crowds.
Event 2025: La Mercè Festival (September 20–24), the city’s biggest annual street party with fireworks and concerts.
9. Florence, Italy – £561.86 (€657.38)
Florence is Italy’s Renaissance jewel, but visiting comes at a cost. High demand for museums, tours, and central hotels makes it the 9th most expensive city break in Europe. Totally worth it!
Hidden gem: Bardini Gardens, offering beautiful views of the Duomo with fewer visitors than Boboli.
Event 2025: Florence Biennale (October 18–26), a major international art exhibition.
10. Nice, France – £540.09 (€631.91)
Rounding out the list, Nice offers Mediterranean sunshine and glamour on the French Riviera. With beach clubs, fine dining, and stylish hotels, it’s no surprise it’s among the top 10 most expensive European city breaks.
Hidden gem: Castle Hill (Colline du Château) offers breathtaking views of the coastline.
Event 2025: Do not miss the holiday festivities – the French Riviera lights up for Christmas and New Year’s!
My Conclusion: Are Expensive City Breaks Worth It?
The 10 most expensive city breaks in Europe in 2025 prove that travel costs vary dramatically across the continent. From Oslo’s fjords to Venice’s canals and Barcelona’s beaches, these destinations may be pricey, but they also deliver unforgettable cultural, culinary, and scenic experiences.
If you’re planning a trip to one of these cities, book early, look for deals on accommodation, and budget carefully for meals and attractions. For some travelers, the high price tag is a worthwhile investment in once-in-a-lifetime memories. This is also my case – I would not avoid a city just because it is one of the most expensive if it has other things I want to enjoy.
Whether you’re drawn to luxury, culture, or iconic landmarks, these most expensive European destinations show that sometimes, the best experiences come at a premium.
Photo sources – apart from the one from Dreamstime: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
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