As a balanced travel writer, I’m here to help you weigh your options between two captivating European cities for your backpacking adventure: Amsterdam and Budapest.
Which City Offers a Lower Daily Budget for Backpackers?
Budapest generally offers a significantly lower daily budget for backpackers compared to Amsterdam.
- Estimated Daily Budget (Backpacker):
- Budapest: €30-55 per day (closer to the general European backpacker estimate of €35-55/day).
- Amsterdam: €55-85 per day (considerably higher than the general European average).
What Are the Typical Accommodation Costs?
Accommodation costs are a major differentiator.
- Hostels:
- Budapest: Expect to pay €15-25 per night for a dorm bed in a well-rated hostel, aligning with the lower end of the general European hostel range (€15-30).
- Amsterdam: A dorm bed typically ranges from €25-40 per night, placing it at the higher end or often above the general European hostel range.
How Much Should I Budget for Food and Drink?
Food and drink costs reflect the overall price difference.
- Food:
- Budapest: You can budget €10-20 per day. Street food, local eateries, and market produce are affordable. A typical meal at a local restaurant might cost €8-15.
- Amsterdam: Plan for €20-35 per day. Groceries can help, but meals out are pricier. A casual restaurant meal could easily be €15-25.
- Alcohol: Local beer and wine are notably cheaper in Budapest.
What Are the Public Transport Expenses?
Both cities have efficient public transport, but prices differ.
- Transport:
- Budapest: Expect to spend €5-8 per day on public transport (single tickets, day passes). This falls within the general European daily transport estimate of €5-10.
- Amsterdam: Budget €7-12 per day for tram, metro, or bus passes, placing it at the higher end of the general European range. Cycling is a popular, cost-effective alternative.
Which City Offers More Free or Low-Cost Activities?
Both cities offer free walking tours and parks. However, Budapest excels in affordable unique experiences.
- Budapest: Offers numerous free attractions like exploring the Buda Castle district, Chain Bridge, and Gellért Hill. Its famous thermal baths offer entry for an estimated €15-25.
- Amsterdam: While picturesque canals and Vondelpark are free, major museums like the Rijksmuseum or Van Gogh Museum have significant entry fees (often €20+).
Remember that platforms like AllInMap can help you discover free amenities like public restrooms and water fountains in both cities, helping to stretch your budget further. Seasonal patterns also impact prices; spring and fall typically offer lower prices for flights and accommodation than the peak summer months in both destinations.
