Choosing between Antwerp and Strasbourg for a backpacking adventure involves considering similar budget ranges, as both are established Western European cities. Optimizing for value often depends more on personal spending habits and booking in advance than significant inherent cost differences between the two.
Which City Offers a Lower Daily Budget?
For backpackers, the estimated daily budget for both Antwerp and Strasbourg typically falls within a similar range of €35-55 per day. This estimate covers basic accommodation, food, and local transport, excluding major attractions or extensive nightlife. Western European cities generally share comparable baseline costs. Spring and fall typically offer lower prices for accommodation and flights compared to the peak summer season.
A breakdown of a daily budget often looks like:
- Accommodation: Estimated €15-30 for a dorm bed in a hostel.
- Food: Estimated €10-20 for a mix of supermarket groceries, street food, and perhaps one budget meal out.
- Transport: Estimated €5-10 for daily public transport passes, though both cities are walkable.
How Do Accommodation Costs Compare for Backpackers?
Accommodation costs for backpackers are quite similar in both cities. Expect to pay an estimated €15-30 per night for a dorm bed in a well-rated hostel in Antwerp. Similarly, hostel dorms in Strasbourg generally range from an estimated €15-30 per night. Prices fluctuate based on location, hostel amenities, time of year, and how far in advance you book.
What Are the Food and Drink Costs Like?
Food and drink costs are comparable. In both Antwerp and Strasbourg, meals at local, budget-friendly restaurants typically cost an estimated €8-15. Supermarket groceries for a day can range from an estimated €5-10, offering a cheaper alternative. Street food options, bakeries, and local markets also provide affordable and delicious choices in both cities. Coffee in a café generally costs €2.50-4.
Is Public Transport Affordable in Both Cities?
Public transport is generally affordable and efficient in both Antwerp and Strasbourg. A daily public transport pass or multiple single tickets typically cost an estimated €5-10 per day in either city. Both cities are also highly walkable, especially their central areas and historic districts, allowing backpackers to save on transport costs by exploring on foot.
Which City Has More Free Activities?
Both Antwerp and Strasbourg offer a wealth of free activities for backpackers. Free activities in Antwerp include exploring the Grote Markt, walking along the Scheldt River, enjoying the architecture, and visiting the exterior of the Cathedral of Our Lady. Strasbourg offers strolls through the picturesque Petite France quarter, admiring the Strasbourg Cathedral exterior, and relaxing in Parc de l’Orangerie. Many museums in both cities may offer free entry on specific days or times. Websites like AllInMap can also help identify free amenities and points of interest.
