For backpackers comparing Athens and Palermo, both cities offer rich history, vibrant culture, and relatively budget-friendly travel experiences compared to Western European capitals.
Which City Offers a Lower Daily Budget?
Backpackers can typically expect to spend €35-55 per day in both Athens and Palermo, excluding major attractions. Palermo generally edges out Athens slightly for a lower overall daily budget, primarily due to potentially cheaper food options and fewer high-cost historical entry fees for backpackers focusing on free exploration.
A general daily budget breakdown:
- Accommodation (hostel dorm): €15-30
- Food: €10-20
- Local Transport: €5-10
- Activities/Miscellaneous: €5-15 (can vary widely)
What Are Typical Accommodation Costs?
For backpackers, hostel dorm beds in both Athens and Palermo typically range from €15 to €30 per night. Prices fluctuate based on season, hostel amenities, location within the city, and booking in advance. Both cities offer a good selection of hostels catering to budget travelers.
How Much Should I Budget for Food and Drink?
Both Athens and Palermo excel in providing delicious and affordable local cuisine.
- Street food: Expect to find options like souvlaki in Athens or arancini in Palermo for €2-5 per item, often making for a satisfying meal.
- Casual local restaurants: Meals at local eateries typically cost €8-15 in either city, including a drink.
- Groceries: Preparing some of your own meals can further reduce costs, with a daily budget of €5-10 for basic groceries. A realistic daily food budget for backpackers is €10-20, with Palermo potentially offering slightly more variety at the lowest price points, especially for street food.
What are Transportation Expenses Like?
Both cities have efficient public transport systems making it easy to get around.
- Athens: The metro, bus, and tram system is comprehensive. A single ticket typically costs around €1.20-1.50. Day passes are available, generally around €4.50.
- Palermo: The city relies primarily on buses. A single ticket usually costs about €1.40. A daily transport budget of €5-10 is realistic for either city, allowing for multiple rides or a day pass. Many central areas in both are also walkable.
When is the Best Time to Visit for Budget Travelers?
For optimal weather and potentially lower prices, spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) are generally recommended for both Athens and Palermo. During these shoulder seasons, accommodation and flight costs tend to be lower than the peak summer months (June-August), and crowds are thinner. Summer sees the highest prices and hottest temperatures.
For finding free amenities like public restrooms and water fountains in both cities, consider using tools like AllInMap to optimize your budget further.
