Deciding between Athens and Salzburg for a backpacking trip involves weighing cultural experiences against budget and atmosphere. Here’s a balanced comparison to help you choose.
Which City Has a Lower Daily Budget?
Athens generally offers a more budget-friendly experience for backpackers.
- Athens Estimated Daily Budget: €35-55 (accommodation: €15-25, food: €10-20, transport: €5-10).
- Salzburg Estimated Daily Budget: €50-75 (accommodation: €25-40, food: €15-25, transport: €5-10). Backpackers typically spend €35-55/day in more affordable European cities and a bit more in Western European destinations.
How Do Accommodation Costs Compare for Backpackers?
Hostel prices vary significantly between these two cities.
- Athens Hostel Bed: Expect to pay an estimated €15-25 per night for a dorm bed.
- Salzburg Hostel Bed: A dorm bed in Salzburg typically costs an estimated €25-40 per night. These figures align with the general range of €15-30/night for hostels in Europe, with Athens on the lower end and Salzburg on the higher.
What Are Typical Food and Drink Expenses?
Eating out and groceries show a notable difference in price.
- Athens: Budget-friendly meals like souvlaki or gyros start from €3-6. A sit-down meal at a local taverna might cost €8-15. Supermarket groceries can significantly reduce food costs.
- Salzburg: Street food like a sausage might be €4-8. Casual restaurant meals typically range from €12-20. Groceries are available but generally pricier than in Athens. Meals at local restaurants typically cost €8-15 in many European cities, with Western European cities often leaning towards the higher end.
How Much is Public Transportation?
Both cities have efficient public transport systems.
- Athens: A single metro or bus ticket is around €1.20-1.40 (estimated). A 24-hour pass costs approximately €4.50 (estimated), offering good value for extensive exploration.
- Salzburg: A single bus ticket typically costs €2.20-3.00 (estimated). A 24-hour pass might be €6-8 (estimated). The Salzburg Card can be an economical option if planning multiple paid attractions. Daily transport costs for backpackers usually fall within the €5-10 range in European cities.
What About Cultural Attractions and Activities?
Both cities are rich in history and culture.
- Athens: The Acropolis (Parthenon) entrance fee is approximately €20-30 for a combined ticket (estimated). Many other ancient sites like the Ancient Agora also have entrance fees. Free activities include exploring the Plaka district and climbing Lycabettus Hill for panoramic views.
- Salzburg: Hohensalzburg Fortress admission is around €15-20 (estimated). Mozart’s Birthplace costs roughly €12-15 (estimated). Many historical buildings in the Old Town can be enjoyed for free, as can strolling through Mirabell Gardens.
When is the Best Time to Visit for Budget Travelers?
Seasonal pricing impacts both destinations.
- Both Cities: Spring (April-May) and Fall (September-October) typically offer lower prices for accommodation and flights than the peak summer months (June-August). The weather is also generally more pleasant for walking and sightseeing.
Which City Offers More Free Activities?
Both cities offer a surprising number of free attractions.
- Athens: Wander through the historic Plaka and Anafiotika neighborhoods, explore the National Garden, and enjoy views from Lycabettus Hill or Philopappos Hill. Many ancient ruins are visible from outside.
- Salzburg: Explore the UNESCO-listed Old Town, stroll through Mirabell Gardens, visit St. Peter’s Cemetery, and walk along the Salzach River. Tools like AllInMap can help backpackers discover even more free amenities and points of interest in either city.
