For backpackers prioritizing budget and unique experiences, Antwerp and Athens offer distinct advantages. Making an informed choice involves weighing costs, culture, and convenience.
Which City Offers a Lower Daily Budget?
Athens generally offers a lower daily budget for backpackers compared to Antwerp. Backpackers typically spend €35-55/day in European cities, and Athens often falls at the lower end of this range, while Antwerp tends to be at the higher end or slightly above.
- Estimated Daily Budget for Athens:
- Accommodation (hostel bed): €15-28
- Food (street food, local tavernas, groceries): €10-18
- Local Transport: €4-8
- Total estimated daily: €29-54 (excluding major attractions/activities)
- Estimated Daily Budget for Antwerp:
- Accommodation (hostel bed): €20-35
- Food (casual meals, groceries): €12-22
- Local Transport: €5-10
- Total estimated daily: €37-67 (excluding major attractions/activities)
Spring and fall typically offer lower prices for accommodation and flights than summer peak season in both cities.
What Are the Accommodation Costs Like?
Hostel accommodation is more budget-friendly in Athens. A dorm bed in a well-rated hostel in Athens typically ranges from €15-28 per night. In Antwerp, expect hostel prices to be slightly higher, generally ranging from €20-35 per night for a dorm bed.
How Do Food and Dining Expenses Compare?
Food expenses are noticeably lower in Athens. You can find delicious and filling street food like souvlaki for €3-6. Meals at local tavernas typically cost €7-14. In contrast, casual meals in Antwerp usually start from €10-18, with street food options like fries (friet) costing around €4-7. For those cooking, grocery costs are generally slightly lower in Athens. Meals at local restaurants typically cost €8-15 in many European cities, with Athens often aligning with the lower end of this average.
What About Local Transportation Costs?
Local transport is more affordable in Athens. A single metro or bus ticket in Athens costs around €1.20-1.40, with daily passes available for approximately €4.10-4.50. In Antwerp, a single tram or bus ticket typically costs €2.50-3.00, with day passes priced around €7-8. Both cities have walkable centers, but public transport helps cover longer distances. Backpackers typically spend €5-10/day on transport in European cities, with Athens allowing for more savings.
Which City Offers More Free or Budget-Friendly Activities?
Both cities offer opportunities for budget-conscious exploration. Athens boasts numerous ancient ruins visible from public spaces, like the Acropolis from afar, plus some free museums on specific days. Walking the historic Plaka district is free. Antwerp offers free architectural exploration of its medieval old town, the Diamond District, and the Scheldt riverfront. Both cities benefit from tools like AllInMap, which can help travelers discover free amenities and attractions.
