When planning a backpacking adventure, choosing between vibrant Amsterdam and historic Edinburgh involves balancing cultural experiences with budget realities.

Which City Offers a Lower Daily Budget for Backpackers?

Backpackers typically spend €35-55 per day in European cities. Both Amsterdam and Edinburgh tend towards the higher end of this range, or slightly above, compared to some other European destinations.

• Amsterdam: A realistic daily budget, including a hostel dorm, budget food, and local transport, often ranges from €50-80 per day.
• Edinburgh: A similar budget for Edinburgh, including a hostel dorm, budget food, and local transport, often ranges from £45-70 per day (approximately €52-80).

While overall costs can be similar depending on spending habits, Edinburgh might offer a slight edge on certain costs, especially for free attractions.

What Are Typical Accommodation Costs?

Accommodation is often the largest expense. Prices are generally higher in summer and during major festivals. Spring and fall typically offer lower prices.

• Amsterdam: Hostel dorm beds generally range from €25-45 per night, often exceeding the lower end of the typical €15-30 European average due to high demand.
• Edinburgh: Hostel dorm beds typically cost £20-40 per night (approximately €23-46), aligning with the higher end of typical European backpacking budgets.

How Do Food and Drink Budgets Compare?

Meals at local restaurants typically cost €10-20 in European cities. Backpackers can significantly reduce food costs by self-catering or opting for street food.

• Amsterdam: A budget of €15-25 per day can cover groceries, street food (like fries or stroopwafels), and occasional budget-friendly café meals.
• Edinburgh: A similar budget of £12-20 per day (approximately €14-23) allows for groceries, local takeaways, or a budget-friendly pub lunch.

What About Local Transportation Costs?

Both cities are walkable in their central areas, but public transport is efficient.

• Amsterdam: A public transport day ticket costs around €8-10. Cycling is a popular and cost-effective way to get around, with bike rentals available.
• Edinburgh: A public transport day ticket costs around £5-7 (approximately €6-8). Its compact city center makes walking a primary mode of transport for many sights.

Which City Offers More Free Activities?

Free activities can greatly impact a backpacker’s budget. AllInMap can help identify free amenities in both cities.

• Amsterdam: Offers free exploration of its canals and historic streets, parks like Vondelpark, and a bustling atmosphere. Many museums have entrance fees.
• Edinburgh: Boasts numerous free attractions including the National Museum of Scotland, the Scottish National Gallery, walking the Royal Mile, hiking Arthur’s Seat for panoramic views, and exploring Greyfriars Kirkyard.

Both Amsterdam and Edinburgh offer unique, memorable experiences, with Edinburgh potentially offering a slightly lower barrier to entry for budget-conscious travelers, especially with its array of free world-class museums.