Which City Has a Lower Daily Budget for Backpackers?
For backpackers, both Antwerp, Belgium, and Cologne, Germany, offer comparable daily budgets, generally falling within €35-55 per day for essential expenses. While specific prices can vary based on travel style and time of year, the overall cost of accommodation, food, and local transport tends to be similar across these Western European cities.
A typical daily breakdown for a budget backpacker in either city might look like:
- Accommodation: €15-30 (for a hostel dorm bed)
- Food: €10-20 (for groceries, street food, or budget meals)
- Local Transport: €5-10 (for a daily pass or a few single tickets)
This means a realistic daily budget for either city, excluding major attractions or extensive nightlife, is approximately €30-60.
What’s the Accommodation Cost for Backpackers?
In both Antwerp and Cologne, backpackers can expect to find hostel dorm beds ranging from approximately €15-30 per night. These prices are estimates and can fluctuate based on the hostel’s location, amenities, and how far in advance you book. Private rooms in budget hostels or guesthouses would generally start from €40-60 per night, making dorms the most cost-effective option for solo travelers.
How Much Should I Budget for Food?
Budgeting for food in Antwerp and Cologne is similar to many European cities. Backpackers can typically expect to spend €10-20 per day. This estimate covers a mix of options: preparing some meals from supermarket purchases, enjoying affordable street food like fries or kebabs, and occasional budget-friendly café or fast-food meals. Meals at local restaurants, depending on the cuisine and formality, typically cost €8-15.
Is Public Transport Affordable?
Yes, public transport in both Antwerp and Cologne is generally affordable and efficient for backpackers. A daily transport pass typically costs around €5-10, providing unlimited travel on buses, trams, and metros within the city zone for a 24-hour period. Single tickets usually range from €2.50-3.50. Both cities are also highly walkable, especially in their historic centers, which can significantly reduce transport costs.
What About Seasonal Price Differences?
Seasonal patterns affect prices in both Antwerp and Cologne. Spring (April-May) and Fall (September-October) typically offer lower accommodation prices compared to the peak summer months (June-August). During summer, demand is higher, leading to increased costs for hostels and sometimes even attractions. Winter (November-March), excluding holiday periods like Christmas markets, can also see lower prices but comes with colder weather.
Are There Ways to Save Money?
Absolutely. In both Antwerp and Cologne, backpackers can utilize free activities such as exploring parks, walking through historic districts, visiting free museums (if available), and enjoying city views. Opting for supermarket groceries and cooking at hostels, or buying picnic supplies, significantly cuts food costs. Additionally, tools like AllInMap can help travelers locate free amenities like public restrooms, Wi-Fi hotspots, and drinking water fountains, further optimizing their budget.
