For British holidaymakers determined to make their pounds stretch further in 2026, an unlikely Asian capital has emerged as a frontrunner for incredible value. New analysis suggests that Hanoi, the bustling heart of Vietnam, offers one of the cheapest city breaks on the planet.
The £5.60 Evening: How Far Your Money Goes
Asia travel specialist firm TransIndus has conducted detailed research into everyday costs for tourists. They compiled a typical "basket" of purchases a visitor might make soon after arrival: a combo meal from McDonald's, three domestic beers from a supermarket, and a 5km ride on a local motorbike taxi.
In Hanoi, this entire basket comes to a remarkable total of just £5.60. This sum is dramatically lower than equivalent costs in the United Kingdom. The breakdown, based on prices reported by current travellers and expats, is precise.
Breaking Down the Costs
A McDonald's combo meal, such as a Big Mac Meal, costs approximately £3.14.
A 0.5-litre bottle of domestic beer from a supermarket is priced around £0.42 each, meaning three would total £1.26.
A 5km bike taxi ride, typically booked via local ride-hailing apps, comes in at an estimated £1.20.
A spokesperson for TransIndus explained the methodology: "People understandably want their holiday money to go further in 2026 - but the smartest approach is to plan with a few simple 'anchor' costs in mind. A short ride, a casual meal, and a couple of drinks are the sort of everyday purchases many travellers make in the first 24 hours. If those are low, it's a strong sign the city is going to feel great value overall."
Beyond Hanoi: Other Affordable Asian Gems
While Hanoi tops the list for sheer value, the research highlights several other Asian cities where British tourists can enjoy a significantly lower cost of living during their stay.
The identical basket of goods and transport would cost:
- Approximately £8.07 in Yogyakarta, Indonesia.
- Approximately £8.38 in Manila, Philippines.
- Approximately £9.29 in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
This reinforces Vietnam's status as a premier destination for budget-conscious travellers. A separate Post Office Money report underscores this, noting that the historic town of Hoi An, located 479 miles south of Hanoi, is now 10% cheaper than it was in 2023.
Exploring Vietnam's Historic Charm
Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is an exceptionally well-preserved example of a 15th to 19th-century Southeast Asian trading port. Over 800 historic buildings have been conserved, allowing the town to retain its centuries-old appearance. As described by travel blogger Travel Lush, the experience is magical.
"Wandering aimlessly around the Ancient Town is easily one of the best things to do in Hoi An," they advise. "Cycling is big in Hoi An and most hotels here offer complimentary bicycles. It’s an incredible way to check out all of the city’s beautiful temples, emerald rice paddies and everyday street scenes."
The climate is also a draw, with temperatures typically around 29°C for much of the year. Travellers should note the long rainy season from November to January, making autumn or visits from February onwards potentially wiser choices.
While daily costs in Vietnam are exceptionally low, travellers from the UK must factor in the price of flights, which can start from around £780 for a return ticket. Nevertheless, for those seeking an unforgettable cultural experience where their spending money has serious purchasing power, Hanoi and its neighbouring cities present a compelling case for a 2026 getaway.
