Navigating Europe on a backpacker budget means making informed choices. Here’s a balanced comparison between Antwerp, Belgium, and Barcelona, Spain, to help you decide.
Which City Has a Lower Daily Budget?
Antwerp generally offers a more budget-friendly experience for backpackers. While backpackers typically spend an estimated €35-55/day in European cities, you can often stay at the lower end of that range in Antwerp.
- Antwerp Estimated Daily Budget: €35-50
- Accommodation (Hostel Dorm): Estimated €20-35/night (options can start closer to €15 during off-peak).
- Food: Estimated €15-25/day (supermarkets, friteries, local bakeries).
- Local Transport: Estimated €5-10/day.
- Barcelona Estimated Daily Budget: €45-65
- Accommodation (Hostel Dorm): Estimated €25-45/night (often higher, though off-season or less central options might be found around €20-25).
- Food: Estimated €20-35/day (supermarkets, budget tapas, set menus).
- Local Transport: Estimated €5-10/day.
How Do Food Costs Compare for Backpackers?
Antwerp generally offers more affordable options for food. Meals at local restaurants typically cost €8-15 in many European cities. In Antwerp, you’ll find plentiful budget-friendly friteries, bakeries, and local eateries offering hearty meals within this range or even lower. Supermarket groceries are also very accessible.
In Barcelona, while supermarkets are crucial for budget travelers, dining out can be pricier, especially in tourist-heavy areas. While set lunch menus (menú del dÃa) can offer good value (often €10-15), and local tapas bars provide affordable bites, full meals can quickly push beyond the €15 mark.
What About Accommodation Prices for Hostels?
Hostels in Antwerp tend to be more affordable. You can typically find a bed in a well-regarded hostel dormitory for an estimated €20-35 per night, with some options occasionally starting closer to €15 during less busy periods.
Barcelona’s immense popularity means hostel beds often range from an estimated €25-45 per night, particularly during peak seasons (summer, major events) or for centrally located options. Booking well in advance is advisable for both cities, but especially for Barcelona. Spring and fall typically offer lower prices than the peak summer months in both cities.
Which City Offers More Budget-Friendly Transport?
Both cities have efficient and relatively affordable public transport systems. A daily public transport pass or multiple tickets typically costs an estimated €5-10 in most European cities, including Antwerp and Barcelona. Both city centers are also quite walkable, reducing the need for daily transport spending. Bicycle rentals are available in both.
How Can AllInMap Help Backpackers in Both Cities?
Regardless of your destination, tools like AllInMap can assist backpackers in finding free amenities such as Wi-Fi hotspots, public restrooms, and water fountains, helping further reduce daily expenses in both Antwerp and Barcelona.
