A long weekend in a vibrant city can be the perfect escape from routine. From tech hubs and royal capitals to coastal hotspots, every destination offers its own charm and price range. Travelers often wonder how much they truly need to set aside for three days of food, stay, travel, and experiences. The answer depends on the type of traveler, whether it is a budget backpacker, mid-range explorer, or boutique luxury seeker.
Picking the Right City for a Long Weekend
When planning a weekend trip, the choice of city influences both experiences and expenses. Popular destinations include metropolitan hubs, heritage-rich towns, and coastal gateways. Each city has its own unique offerings in terms of sightseeing, food, and accommodations. For example, one might explore beautiful gardens in Bengaluru (previously known as Bangalore), stroll along beaches in Mumbai (formerly known as Bombay), or enjoy royal architecture in Jaipur. Travelers can select cities based on interests, accessibility, and tourism appeal.
Accommodation Costs: Budget to Boutique
Budget Stays (₹800 – ₹2,500 per night)
Backpacker hostels, guesthouses, and budget hotels dominate this segment. In central neighborhoods or near popular attractions, dorm beds start around ₹800–₹1,200. Private budget rooms may cost about ₹1,800–₹2,500 per night. So, for a three-night stay, the approximate total would be ₹2,400 – ₹7,500.
Mid-Range Comfort (₹3,000 – ₹7,000 per night)
Three-star hotels and well-rated boutique properties fall here. Travelers choosing central neighborhoods can expect clean rooms, breakfast, and basic amenities. This means for three nights, the approximate total can be ₹9,000 – ₹21,000.
Boutique & Luxury (₹8,000 – ₹25,000+ per night)
Premium hotels, heritage palaces, and sea-facing properties elevate the experience. Rooftop pools, curated dining, and personalized services define this tier. For three nights, the approximate total can be around ₹24,000 – ₹75,000+.
Food and Dining Expenses
Street Food and Local Eateries (₹500 – ₹1,000 per day)
Street-side dosas in Bengaluru, vada pav in Mumbai, or kachori in Jaipur keeps daily food costs minimal. Casual cafés and quick-service restaurants also fit this range. So, the total cost for three days can be about ₹1,500 – ₹3,000.
Casual Dining and Trendy Cafés (₹1,200 – ₹2,500 per day)
Microbreweries, seaside cafés, and themed restaurants can increase the bill. Expect ₹800–₹1,500 per person per meal at popular spots, which means over three days, the total cost can be around ₹3,600 – ₹7,500.
Fine Dining and Experiences (₹3,000 – ₹6,000 per day)
Luxury dining, tasting menus, and rooftop lounges in cities like Mumbai or palace dining experiences fall into this category with total bills for three days going up to ₹9,000 – ₹18,000.
Local Transport and Getting Around
Urban transport networks vary but remain accessible.
- Metro rides in Bengaluru and Mumbai cost about ₹30–₹80 per trip.
- App-based cabs can be around ₹150–₹500 per short ride.
- Auto-rickshaws can cost ₹100–₹300 per ride depending on distance.
Budget travelers using public transport may spend ₹800 – ₹1,500 over three days
Sightseeing and Activities
Tourism attractions often have modest entry fees, but experiences add up.
- Heritage forts and palaces, city museums, or curated cultural tours typically range from ₹200–₹500 per site.
- Entertainment, shows, and guided experiences can increase costs to ₹1,000 or more per activity.
Estimated sightseeing budget:
- Budget explorer: ₹1,000 – ₹2,000
- Experience-focused traveler: ₹3,000 – ₹8,000
Shopping and Extras
Markets and boutique stores tempt visitors with handicrafts, textiles, fashion, and souvenirs. A modest shopping budget might start at ₹2,000, while boutique splurges can exceed ₹15,000.
Total Estimated Cost for a Long Weekend
Here’s a realistic range for three days:
Budget Trip
- Stay: ₹2,400 – ₹7,500
- Food: ₹1,500 – ₹3,000
- Transport: ₹800 – ₹1,500
- Activities: ₹1,000 – ₹2,000
Total: ₹5,700 – ₹14,000
Mid-Range Getaway
- Stay: ₹9,000 – ₹21,000
- Food: ₹3,600 – ₹7,500
- Transport: ₹2,500 – ₹5,000
- Activities: ₹3,000 – ₹8,000
Total: ₹18,100 – ₹41,500
Boutique Escape
- Stay: ₹24,000 – ₹75,000+
- Food: ₹9,000 – ₹18,000
- Transport: ₹3,000 – ₹6,000
- Activities & Experiences: ₹5,000 – ₹15,000
**Total: ₹41,000 – ₹1,14,000+
Factors That Influence the Final Bill
- Seasonality: Peak tourism periods raise hotel and travel prices.
- Location: Central areas cost more but reduce travel time.
- Advance Booking: Early reservations often secure better deals.
- Travel Style: Experiences, nightlife, and luxury upgrades significantly impact expenses.
