Dining out across Europe offers a vast spectrum of experiences and price points, with new research pinpointing the most affordable and expensive destinations for a classic three-course meal for two. The analysis provides crucial insights for budget-conscious travellers seeking culinary adventures without breaking the bank.
Kosovo Emerges as Europe's Budget Dining Champion
According to a comprehensive study conducted by Ferrygogo, which examined the average cost of a three-course dinner for two at mid-range restaurants across Europe, Kosovo stands out as the continent's most economical destination. The average cost for such a meal in Kosovo is a remarkably low €20, equivalent to approximately £17.35.
This southeast European nation not only offers exceptional value for money but also boasts miles of stunning natural landscapes and a vibrant, rich culture for visitors to explore. For travellers, this combination of affordability and experience presents a compelling case for consideration.
Top Affordable European Destinations for Dining
Following Kosovo, several other European countries offer significant savings for diners. North Macedonia ranks as the second cheapest destination, where a three-course meal for two averages just €24.38 (£21.15). Moldova takes third place, with restaurants typically charging around €30.32 (£26.30) for a comparable dining experience.
The research further identifies several other nations where dining out remains notably affordable. These include:
- Serbia
- Bulgaria
- Czech Republic
- Romania
- Albania
Each of these destinations provides excellent opportunities for enjoying restaurant cuisine without the hefty price tags found elsewhere on the continent.
Switzerland and Scandinavia Command Premium Prices
Conversely, the study highlights several European destinations where diners should prepare for substantially higher bills. Switzerland emerges as the most expensive country for dining out, with a three-course meal for two averaging a steep €107.24 (£93.04).
Denmark follows as another notably pricey location, where the average cost works out to approximately €93.69 (£81.21). Luxembourg and Norway also command premium prices, with averages of €90 (£78.08) and €89.86 (£81.29) respectively.
Other costly European dining destinations include:
- Netherlands
- Ireland
- Finland
- Belgium
In these nations, a three-course meal for two typically costs around €80 (£69.41), significantly above the European average.
How the UK Compares to European Dining Costs
For British holidaymakers, the research provides valuable context for planning overseas trips. The average price for a three-course meal for two in the United Kingdom comes to around £65, which is approximately €74.92. This places the UK in a mid-to-upper price range compared to many European destinations.
British travellers seeking destinations where they can dine out for less than they would typically pay at home have several attractive options. Portugal offers an average cost of €45.00 (£39.04) for a three-course dinner for two, while Spain also falls below the UK average at €50.00 (£43.38).
City-Specific Dining Costs Reveal Further Extremes
The analysis also delves into city-specific data, revealing even greater disparities in dining costs across Europe. Swiss cities dominate the list of most expensive locations, with Lugano and Zug topping the charts at €160.86 (£139.56) for a meal for two. Zurich follows closely behind at €128.69 (£111.65).
At the opposite end of the spectrum, several cities offer exceptional value for money. Skopje, the capital of North Macedonia, proves particularly affordable at just €29.25 (£25.38) on average. Similarly, Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, offers budget-friendly dining with an average cost of €33.31 (£28.90).
This detailed breakdown of European dining costs provides travellers with essential information for planning their culinary adventures, whether they seek luxury experiences or budget-friendly meals in fascinating destinations.
