Amsterdam vs. Paris for Backpackers: A Balanced Comparison
Which City Offers a Lower Daily Budget for Backpackers?
Both Amsterdam and Paris are renowned global cities and can lean towards the higher end of European backpacking costs. However, for a very frugal traveler, Amsterdam might present slightly more opportunities for cost savings, particularly in public transport (given its walkability and cycling culture) and potentially slightly lower prices for basic provisions if avoiding tourist traps. Paris offers extensive free iconic sights.
What’s the Average Daily Cost in Amsterdam vs. Paris?
Backpackers typically spend an estimated €35-55 per day in European cities. For popular destinations like Amsterdam and Paris, expect to be at the higher end of this range, or slightly above, with an estimated daily expenditure of €40-65.
- Accommodation (Hostel): Expect to pay an estimated €25-45 per night in a dorm room for these popular cities, though with early booking or during off-peak seasons, prices can drop to €15-30 (estimated range).
- Food: Budget an estimated €10-20 per day. This covers street food, supermarket groceries, and budget-friendly takeaways. Meals at local restaurants typically cost €8-15 in European cities.
- Transport: An estimated €5-10 per day is usually sufficient for local public transport or bike rentals.
How Easy is Getting Around in Each City?
Both cities boast excellent and efficient public transportation. Amsterdam is famously bike-friendly, with bike rentals estimated at €10-15 per day, and its compact center is highly walkable. Paris features an extensive Metro system that efficiently covers the entire city; a daily transport pass is estimated to cost €8-15 depending on zones. Both destinations are well-suited for exploration on foot.
What About Food and Drink Costs?
Food costs are generally comparable, with numerous options for budget travelers. In both cities, grocery stores offer the most cost-effective options, with a day’s basic supplies estimated at €5-10. Street food, bakeries (like Paris’s boulangeries), and local markets provide affordable meal solutions. Eating out at sit-down restaurants will likely be more expensive in Paris, especially in central areas. A basic coffee is estimated at €2-4, and a local beer €5-8.
Which City Offers More Free or Budget-Friendly Activities?
Both cities are rich in free and low-cost experiences. In Amsterdam, walking along the canals, exploring Vondelpark, or visiting free markets like the Albert Cuyp Market are popular. Paris offers numerous free outdoor sights, including the Eiffel Tower (from outside), Notre Dame Cathedral, and vast parks like Jardin du Luxembourg. Many museums in both cities may offer free entry on specific days or evenings, but general admission typically costs €10-20. Spring and fall typically offer lower prices for flights and accommodation than the summer peak season. Backpackers can utilize tools like AllInMap to find free amenities such as public restrooms and water fountains in both destinations.
