Pakistan

Cost of living

What a month costs

Islamabad is Pakistan's priciest city but still very cheap by global standards. Imported goods, private schools and a backup generator are what push a family budget up.

The scores

How it rates for a moving family

See and do

Top 10 in Islamabad

1. Faisal MosqueThe vast tent-shaped national mosque at the foot of the Margalla Hills, the city's signature landmark.
2. Pakistan MonumentFour granite petals on Shakarparian hill with a museum and a wide view over the capital.
3. Daman-e-KohTerraced viewpoint on the Margalla ridge that looks straight down over Faisal Mosque and the sectors.
4. Margalla Hills Trail 5The most popular of the city's hiking trails, a steady climb into the national park from Sector F-6.
5. Saidpur VillageRestored Mughal-era hillside village with old temples, craft shops and terrace restaurants.
6. Lok Virsa MuseumNational heritage museum on Shakarparian showing folk crafts and cultures from across Pakistan.
7. Rawal LakeReservoir and lakeside park on the edge of town, good for a walk, a picnic or a paddle boat.
8. Pir SohawaMountain-top spot above the city at around 1,200 metres, famous for its views and cool evenings.
9. Fatima Jinnah ParkHuge landscaped park in Sector F-9, the green lungs of the city for joggers and families.
10. Centaurus MallThe landmark high-rise mall in the Blue Area, the main spot for shopping, cinema and food courts.

Where to go

Weekend escapes

1. MurreeClassic colonial hill station about 90 minutes up the road, cool pine air and a busy Mall Road.
2. Nathia GaliHigher and quieter than Murree, thick forest walks and views toward Nanga Parbat on a clear day.
3. TaxilaUNESCO-listed Gandhara ruins and a strong archaeological museum, an easy day trip 35 km northwest.
4. Khanpur DamTurquoise reservoir about an hour out for boating, kayaking and cliff jumping.
5. Abbottabad and the GalyatGreen garrison town and gateway to a string of cool mountain resorts a couple of hours north.

Coffee

Best cafes

1. Chaaye KhanaHomegrown chai-house chain born in Islamabad, cosy and always busy in Kohsar Market and F-7.
2. Mocca CoffeeLong-running Kohsar Market coffee spot popular with the F-6 crowd for a quiet flat white.
3. Gloria Jean's CoffeesReliable international chain with branches at Jinnah Super and Centaurus for a familiar cup.
4. Burning BrownieDessert-led cafe in Jinnah Super known for brownies, cakes and weekend brunch.

Restaurants

Where to eat

1. MonalThe famous terrace restaurant up at Pir Sohawa, hearty Pakistani grills with the whole city glittering below.
2. Tuscany CourtyardLong-standing Italian in F-7, one of the city's go-to spots for pasta and pizza.
3. Des PardesAtmospheric traditional restaurant in Saidpur Village, desi classics on a candlelit terrace.
4. AndaazRooftop desi dining in Saidpur Village with old-Lahore decor and views of Faisal Mosque.
5. Kabul RestaurantGenerous Afghan kabuli pulao, tikka and fresh naan, a local favourite for a big group meal.
6. Savour FoodsInstitution for pulao and shami kebab, cheap, fast and always packed at lunch.
7. HowdyPopular homegrown burger joint for a casual American-style meal with the kids.

Morning

Best breakfast

1. Chaaye KhanaParathas, omelettes and endless cups of doodh patti to start the day slowly.
2. Street 1 CafeKohsar Market brunch favourite for eggs, pancakes and coffee.
3. Burning BrownieRelaxed weekend brunch with pastries and a proper coffee.
4. Islamabad Serena HotelLavish buffet breakfast if you want a treat, from halwa puri to a full spread.
5. Mocca CoffeeQuiet morning coffee and a light bite before the day gets going.