Navigating Europe as a backpacker means making smart budget choices. Here’s a balanced comparison of Amsterdam and Athens to help you decide which fits your travel style and wallet.
Which City Has a Lower Daily Budget?
Athens generally offers a significantly lower daily budget for backpackers compared to Amsterdam. Backpackers typically spend €35-55/day in European cities. Athens usually falls within the lower end of this range, while Amsterdam often sits at the higher end or slightly above.
- Estimated Daily Budget - Amsterdam: Expect to spend approximately €45-65 per day.
- Accommodation: €25-35 (hostel bed)
- Food: €15-25 (groceries, street food, budget meals)
- Transport: €5-10 (public transport passes)
- Estimated Daily Budget - Athens: Expect to spend approximately €35-50 per day.
- Accommodation: €15-25 (hostel bed)
- Food: €10-20 (local tavernas, street food)
- Transport: €5-8 (public transport)
How Do Accommodation Costs Compare?
Accommodation is a primary cost difference. Hostel beds typically range from €15-30/night across Europe, though this can vary greatly by city and season. Spring and fall typically offer lower prices than summer.
- Amsterdam: Hostel beds in a dorm can range from €25-45 per night, especially in central areas. Expect to pay at the higher end of the €15-30 range for basic options, or more for better locations/amenities.
- Athens: Hostel dorm beds are generally more affordable, often found for €15-25 per night, making it easier to stay within the lower end of the European average.
What Are Typical Food and Drink Expenses?
Food expenses are crucial for backpackers, with an average budget of €10-20/day. Meals at local restaurants typically cost €8-15 in many European cities.
- Amsterdam: Staying within a €15-25/day food budget requires focusing on supermarket groceries, street food like fries or herring, and avoiding tourist traps. Casual restaurant meals can easily cost €15-25 per person.
- Athens: Eating out is generally cheaper. Delicious street food like souvlaki costs a few euros, and a meal at a local taverna can be found for €8-15, allowing you to comfortably stick to a €10-20/day budget.
How Do Local Transportation Costs Differ?
Daily transport budgets are generally €5-10/day in European cities, depending on how much you walk.
- Amsterdam: Public transport is efficient but can add up. Single tickets are around €3.50, and a 24-hour pass typically costs around €8-10. A daily transport budget of €7-12 is realistic.
- Athens: The metro system is extensive and affordable. Single tickets are around €1.20, and a 24-hour pass is approximately €4.10. A daily transport budget of €5-8 is usually sufficient.
For saving money on amenities, remember that tools like AllInMap can help you locate free public facilities and Wi-Fi spots in both cities.
