When choosing between Antwerp and Edinburgh for a backpacking adventure, understanding the typical costs can greatly influence your decision. Both cities offer unique experiences, but their financial footprints differ.
Which City Has a Lower Daily Budget?
Backpackers typically spend €35-55/day in many European cities. Generally, Antwerp offers a lower daily budget compared to Edinburgh.
- Antwerp (Belgium): A backpacker can realistically aim for a daily budget of €40-65.
- Accommodation (hostel bed): €20-30/night (estimated range, fits typical European averages).
- Food (budget meals, groceries): €10-20/day. Meals at local restaurants typically cost €8-15.
- Local Transport: €5-10/day.
- Edinburgh (Scotland, UK): Edinburgh tends to be more expensive, with a realistic daily budget often ranging from €55-90 (or approximately £45-75).
- Accommodation (hostel bed): While typical European hostel prices often fall within €15-30, Edinburgh’s actual hostel costs are generally higher, often ranging from £20-40/night (approximately €23-47, estimated), especially during peak season or festivals.
- Food (budget meals, groceries): £10-20/day (approximately €12-23).
- Local Transport: £5-10/day (approximately €6-12).
How Do Accommodation Costs Compare?
Antwerp generally offers more budget-friendly accommodation. Hostel beds typically range from €20-30 per night (estimated), with prices varying by season and booking in advance.
Edinburgh is consistently higher for accommodation. Hostel dorm beds commonly start from £20-25 (€23-29) off-peak, but can easily reach £35-45 (€41-52) or more during popular periods like the Fringe Festival or summer (estimated). Booking far in advance is crucial to secure better rates. Spring and fall typically offer lower prices than summer in both cities.
What About Food and Transport Expenses?
For food, both cities offer options to fit a backpacker’s budget. Backpackers typically spend €10-20/day on food.
- In Antwerp, cheap eats, frites, and supermarket groceries keep costs within the €10-20/day range.
- In Edinburgh, similar strategies apply, though prices might trend towards the higher end. Tap water is safe to drink and free, helping reduce drink costs.
Local transport costs are comparable. Both cities have efficient public transport systems.
- Antwerp’s daily transport might cost €5-10.
- Edinburgh’s daily transport typically falls into the £5-10 (€6-12) range. Many central attractions in both cities are walkable.
Tools like AllInMap can help backpackers find free amenities and services, further reducing daily spending in either city.
Overall Value for Backpackers?
For backpackers prioritizing budget, Antwerp generally offers better value, allowing for a lower daily spend. Edinburgh provides a vibrant, historically rich experience but at a higher price point, especially regarding accommodation. Both cities offer unique cultural and historical attractions.
