Sarajevo most affordable European destination for a short break in 2026.

(Patria) - City breaks are a great way to escape everyday life, discover new cultures, and enjoy local gastronomy.

However, prices for such trips vary significantly across Europe, and due to the general rise in costs, many travellers are increasingly looking for more affordable destinations.

To help with the choice, Post Office Travel Money has published its annual cost barometer for 2026, analysing prices in 50 popular European cities.

The calculation for two people includes the costs of two nights in a three-star hotel, a three-course dinner with a bottle of wine, coffee, wine, beer, and a soft drink, return airport transfer, a tourist bus, a 48-hour public transport ticket, and admission to the main historical landmark, gallery, and museum, writes Time Out.

Sarajevo most affordable in Europe

The title of the most affordable European city for a short break this year has been won by - Sarajevo.

According to the research, a weekend in the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina costs £248.27 (around €294), which is almost three times less than the cost of a weekend in the most expensive city on the list - Oslo.

Sarajevo is particularly attractive for exploration on foot, whether you are touring the city independently or joining organised tours.

The city offers a rich cultural and historical scene, with the National Museum and the War Childhood Museum being among the most famous sites.

The special atmosphere is also created by the combination of mosques, churches, and synagogues in a small area.

Food lovers can visit the Markale market, where traditional burek can be found for less than five pounds (around six euros), along with affordable local beer.

SFF an additional reason to visit

According to the recommendations of the research authors, August is a particularly good time to visit Sarajevo.

From August 14 to 21, the Sarajevo Film Festival (SFF) is held, one of the most famous film festivals in the region, known for its premieres and open-air screenings.

Oslo most expensive

At the other end of the scale is Oslo, where a weekend for two people costs around £733.99 (around €870).

Among the most expensive European destinations are also Copenhagen, with an average cost of £670.65 (around €794), and Edinburgh, for which you need to spend around £668.10 (around €791).

Ten most affordable cities for a city break in Europe:

‣ Sarajevo

‣ Bucharest

‣ Tirana

‣ Belgrade

‣ Trenčín

‣ Riga

‣ Lille

‣ Vilnius

‣ Strasbourg

‣ Podgorica

Ten most expensive cities for a city break in Europe

‣ Oslo

‣ Copenhagen

‣ Edinburgh

‣ Geneva

‣ Barcelona

‣ Dublin

‣ Amsterdam

‣ Cork

‣ Venice

‣ Madrid