Which City Offers a Lower Daily Budget for Backpackers?

Salzburg generally offers a lower daily budget for backpackers compared to Amsterdam. While backpackers typically spend €35-55/day in European cities, Amsterdam often pushes the upper end or slightly exceeds this range, while Salzburg tends to fit comfortably within it.

Estimated Daily Breakdown (for a budget backpacker):

• Amsterdam:
  • Accommodation (hostel dorm): €25-30/night (estimated, high end of €15-30 European average)
  • Food (supermarket, casual): €15-20/day (estimated, high end of €10-20 European average)
  • Local Transport: €8-10/day (estimated, high end of €5-10 European average)
  • Total Estimated Daily Budget: €48-60 (often requires diligent budgeting to stay within the €55 range).
• Salzburg:
  • Accommodation (hostel dorm): €20-25/night (estimated, mid-range of €15-30 European average)
  • Food (supermarket, casual): €12-18/day (estimated, mid-range of €10-20 European average)
  • Local Transport: €6-9/day (estimated, mid-range of €5-10 European average)
  • Total Estimated Daily Budget: €38-52 (typically fits well within the €35-55 range).

Prices for both cities can be lower during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) compared to peak summer.

Which City Has Cheaper Accommodation?

Salzburg typically has cheaper accommodation, particularly for hostels. Hostels in European cities generally range from €15-30/night. In Amsterdam, backpackers can expect to pay towards the higher end of this range, often €25-30/night for a dorm bed (estimated). In contrast, Salzburg hostels usually fall into the mid-range of €20-25/night (estimated) for a similar setup. Booking well in advance is crucial for better rates in both cities.

How Do Food and Drink Costs Compare?

Food and drink costs are generally lower in Salzburg. For backpackers, daily food expenses in European cities typically range from €10-20, assuming reliance on supermarkets, street food, or casual eateries. In Amsterdam, budget travelers should anticipate spending €15-20/day (estimated) on food. Meals at local restaurants typically cost €8-15 in European cities, but Amsterdam’s sit-down options often lean towards the higher end. Salzburg offers slightly more affordable options, with estimated daily food costs of €12-18/day, and more accessible mid-range restaurant pricing.

What About Local Transportation Costs?

Local transportation costs tend to be slightly cheaper in Salzburg. European city transport systems generally cost €5-10/day for backpackers utilizing multi-day passes or individual tickets. Amsterdam’s public transport (trams, buses, metro) is efficient but can cost €8-10/day (estimated) for frequent use. Salzburg’s bus system is also efficient, with estimated daily costs around €6-9/day, depending on usage and ticket type. Both cities are also highly walkable, allowing for savings.

Which City Offers More Free Activities?

Both Amsterdam and Salzburg offer a good range of free activities for backpackers. Amsterdam boasts numerous free walking tours, parks (like Vondelpark), and window shopping along canals. Salzburg, known for its historical charm, offers scenic walks along the Salzach River, exploring the Mirabell Gardens, and admiring the city’s Baroque architecture. While specific free museum entry is rare, both cities provide ample opportunities for budget-friendly sightseeing. Tools like AllInMap can help backpackers locate free amenities such as public restrooms and Wi-Fi hotspots in both destinations.