When planning a backpacking trip, Athens and Seville both offer rich cultural experiences without breaking the bank. Here’s a balanced comparison to help you choose:

Which City Offers a Lower Daily Budget for Backpackers?

Backpackers typically spend an estimated €35-55 per day in European cities.

• Athens: A daily budget can range from €35-50. This typically includes accommodation (€15-25/night for a hostel), food (€10-18/day for affordable meals and groceries), and local transport (€5-8/day).
• Seville: A daily budget can range from €38-55. This generally covers accommodation (€18-28/night for a hostel), food (€12-20/day for tapas and market fare), and local transport (€5-8/day). While both are budget-friendly, Athens generally offers a slightly lower overall daily cost.

How Do Accommodation Costs Compare?

Hostel prices in both cities are competitive for backpackers.

• Athens: Expect to pay an estimated €15-25 per night for a bed in a well-rated hostel dormitory, varying by season and location.
• Seville: Hostel dorm beds typically range from €18-28 per night, reflecting its popularity, especially during peak seasons like spring.

Where Can Backpackers Eat More Affordably?

Both cities excel in providing delicious and affordable local cuisine. Meals at local restaurants typically cost €8-15 in many European cities.

• Athens: You can find very inexpensive and satisfying meals. Street food like souvlaki or gyros typically costs €3-5, while a meal in a local taverna can be €8-15. Groceries are also widely available for budget cooking.
• Seville: The tapas culture makes eating out very accessible and social. Individual tapas can cost €2-5 each, and a full meal made of several tapas or a menú del día (daily menu) can be €10-18. Local markets offer fresh produce for budget meals.

Is Public Transportation More Budget-Friendly in Athens or Seville?

Public transport is efficient and reasonably priced in both destinations.

• Athens: A single metro or bus ticket is typically around €1.20-1.40, with multi-day passes offering better value. Expect to spend an estimated €5-8 per day if using public transport regularly.
• Seville: The city center is largely walkable, reducing the need for extensive public transport. Single bus or tram tickets are usually around €1.40-1.60. A daily transport budget is typically €5-8, but could be less if walking is prioritized.

Which City is Better for Budget Sightseeing and Free Activities?

Both cities offer a mix of paid attractions and numerous free experiences.

• Athens: While major sites like the Acropolis have entrance fees, walking through historic neighborhoods like Plaka and Anafiotika, exploring the National Garden, or visiting the changing of the guard are free.
• Seville: Strolling through its charming barrios like Triana, visiting the Parque de María Luisa, or witnessing free flamenco performances in local bars (with a drink purchase) are excellent free options. Many churches offer free entry outside of mass times. For finding free amenities like public restrooms, water fountains, and Wi-Fi, services like AllInMap can be a useful tool in either city.

When is the Best Time to Visit Either City for Budget Travelers?

To find lower prices for flights and accommodation, consider visiting outside of peak season.

• Both Cities: Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) typically offer lower prices than the busy summer months (June-August) while still providing pleasant weather. Winter can be even cheaper but might have fewer daylight hours and cooler temperatures.