When planning a backpacking adventure, London and Amsterdam both offer unique experiences, but their costs and atmosphere differ. Here’s a balanced comparison to help you decide.
Which City Has a Lower Daily Budget?
London generally has a higher daily budget than Amsterdam for backpackers.
- London (Estimated Daily Budget): Expect to spend roughly €55-90 per day.
- Accommodation (hostel dorm): €30-55 per night
- Food (budget meals/groceries): €15-25 per day
- Transport (daily travel card): €8-12 per day
- Amsterdam (Estimated Daily Budget): Expect to spend roughly €50-85 per day.
- Accommodation (hostel dorm): €30-50 per night
- Food (budget meals/groceries): €15-25 per day
- Transport (walking/biking/day pass): €5-10 per day
General Note: Backpackers typically spend €35-55/day in many European cities, making both London and Amsterdam on the higher end of the spectrum. Costs can fluctuate, with spring and fall often offering lower prices than peak summer.
What Are Typical Food Costs for Backpackers?
Food costs are comparable, with budget options vital in both cities. Meals at local restaurants typically cost €8-15 in many European cities.
- London: A budget breakfast from a supermarket might be €3-5, a street food lunch €7-10, and a basic dinner from a pub or takeaway €10-15. Supermarket shopping for self-catering is highly recommended.
- Amsterdam: Similar to London, you can find budget breakfast options for €3-5, a traditional snack or sandwich for €6-9, and simple dinner options for €10-15. Supermarkets are key for saving money.
How Do Accommodation Costs Compare?
Hostel dorm beds are relatively expensive in both cities, though London can be slightly pricier.
- London: A bed in a central hostel dorm can range from €35-55. Prices are often higher for smaller dorms or more desirable locations.
- Amsterdam: A bed in a central hostel dorm typically ranges from €30-50. Demand often pushes prices up, especially on weekends.
Which City Offers Better Value for Transport?
Amsterdam generally offers better value for transport due to its compact nature and cycling culture.
- London: London’s extensive Underground (Tube) and bus network is efficient but can add up. A daily travel card or Oyster card top-up typically costs €8-12 for unlimited travel within central zones. The city is very large, so transport is often essential.
- Amsterdam: The city center is highly walkable, and cycling is a popular, affordable option (bike rental around €10-15/day). For longer distances, tram day passes cost approximately €8-10.
Are There More Free Activities in London or Amsterdam?
London likely offers more extensive free attractions, especially world-class museums.
- London: Many of London’s top attractions, like the British Museum, National Gallery, Tate Modern, and Hyde Park, are free to enter.
- Amsterdam: While Amsterdam has beautiful canals and parks to explore for free, most of its famous museums (Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum) have entrance fees.
Tip for Backpackers: Utilize resources like AllInMap to find free amenities and services in both cities, helping to stretch your budget further.
