When planning a backpacking trip to Europe, choosing between diverse cities like Bari, Italy, and Bilbao, Spain, involves weighing various factors, especially budget. Here’s a balanced comparison to help you decide.
Which City Has a Lower Daily Budget?
Bari, Italy, generally offers a more budget-friendly experience for backpackers compared to Bilbao. An estimated daily budget for a backpacker in Bari typically ranges from €40-55. This includes accommodation in a hostel dorm, meals from local eateries or supermarkets, and basic local transport.
For Bilbao, Spain, backpackers can expect an estimated daily budget ranging from €50-65. This slightly higher cost reflects generally higher prices in the Basque Country compared to Southern Italy, particularly for accommodation and dining.
How Do Accommodation Costs Compare?
Bari tends to have slightly lower hostel prices. A bed in a hostel dorm in Bari typically costs an estimated €18-28 per night. These prices can fluctuate based on season and booking in advance.
In Bilbao, hostel dorm beds generally range from an estimated €22-35 per night. While still affordable, you might find prices on the higher end, especially during peak season or major events.
What Are the Food and Drink Costs Like?
Bari offers fantastic value for food. You can enjoy delicious, authentic Italian meals for reasonable prices. A casual meal at a trattoria or pizzeria might cost an estimated €8-15. Street food like focaccia, panzerotti, and fresh produce from markets are very affordable, allowing daily food budgets to be around €15-25.
Bilbao’s culinary scene is a highlight but can be slightly pricier. While pintxos (Basque tapas) offer a great way to sample local cuisine for an estimated €2.50-4 per pintxo, a full meal at a restaurant might cost €12-25. Daily food budgets in Bilbao typically range from €20-30, especially if you plan to enjoy the pintxo culture.
How Easy and Affordable is Transportation?
Bari is quite walkable, minimizing transport costs. Most of the historic center and main attractions are easily accessible on foot. A single bus ticket typically costs around €1.00-1.50 if needed, keeping daily transport expenses to an estimated €3-8.
Bilbao has an efficient public transport system, including metro, tram, and buses. While the city center is walkable, using public transport to explore wider areas is common. A single ticket typically costs around €1.50-2.00, and multi-day passes or rechargeable cards can offer better value, bringing daily transport costs to an estimated €5-10.
Which City Offers More Free Activities?
Both Bari and Bilbao offer a good selection of free or low-cost activities. Bari’s Old Town, the Basilica di San Nicola, and strolling along the Lungomare (promenade) are free. Bilbao boasts impressive architecture, including the Guggenheim Museum exterior (free to admire), many beautiful parks, and exploring the Casco Viejo (Old Town). Backpackers can utilize tools like AllInMap to locate free amenities, Wi-Fi spots, and public facilities in both cities. Spring and fall typically offer pleasant weather for exploring while often having lower prices than summer.
