TQS StaffWhile there are many reasons to move to our country’s capital, one of the most common drawbacks is the cost. There’s no escaping it — the Big Smoke is an expensive place to live. With recent figures claiming the average house price is nearing £500,000, Londoners are clearly used to forking out.
When it comes to love, however, things get interesting. A recent piece by Currency Fair analysed the average cost of dating around the world and unsurprisingly, London is one of the more costly places to kindle your romances. In fact, foreign cities are far cheaper places to wine and dine your love interest.
So, short of resorting to a cheap date at McDonalds, how do other cities compare?*
Looking for love in London
London is a pretty pricey city, setting you back almost £120 for a slap-up first date.
- 2 cinema tickets: £23
- Meal for 2: £66
- 1 cocktail: £9
- 1 pint of lager: £4.41
- Taxi (5 mile journey): £14
- Total Cost: £116.41
However, there are plenty of money saving options available for frugal daters. Ditch the sit-down meal, head to a free museum and grab some street food for a more relaxed, low-cost adventure.
Making moves in Madrid
The Spanish capital is a metropolis set in beautiful sunny weather. A date here is far cheaper than London – even with the same level of quality.
- 2 cinema tickets: £12.91
- Meal for 2: £37.96
- 1 cocktail: £6.83
- 1 pint of lager: £3.07
- Taxi (5 mile journey): £10.63
- Total cost: £71.40
Romancing in Rome
Despite its long history and huge tourist appeal, Rome remains a relatively cheap city to visit. Heading out on a date there won’t break the bank:
- 2 cinema tickets: £12.90
- Meal for 2: £43.28
- 1 cocktail: £6.83
- 1 pint of lager: £3.87
- Taxi (5 mile journey): £15.94
- Total Cost: £82.82
Sensual Sydney
The Australian city of Sydney is commonly regarded as a paradise – but an expensive one. Due to exchange rates, Australia is a notoriously pricey country. However, a date in the sunny metropolis is still cheaper than London!
- 2 cinema tickets: £19.37
- Meal for 2: £56.51
- 1 cocktail: £8.61
- 1 pint of lager: £3.77
- Taxi (5 mile journey): £14.53
- Total Cost: £102.79
Getting it on in Geneva
London is far from the most expensive place to date. The Swiss city of Geneva offers eye-watering prices despite pristine scenery and a high quality of living.
- 2 cinema tickets: £28.96
- Meal for 2: £96.06
- 1 cocktail: £13.72
- 1 pint of lager: £5.34
- Taxi (5 mile journey): £25.91
- Total Cost: £169.99
*Prices are converted from Euros.
