For backpackers eyeing Eastern and Central Europe, Belgrade and Budapest offer distinct experiences. Here’s a balanced comparison to help optimize your trip planning and daily budget.
Which City Has a Lower Daily Budget for Backpackers?
Backpackers typically spend an estimated €35-55 per day in many Central and Eastern European cities, including Belgrade and Budapest. While both are more affordable than Western European counterparts, Belgrade might offer a slightly lower average cost, particularly for food and entertainment outside of peak tourist areas, though Budapest also provides excellent value. Spring and fall typically offer lower prices than summer due to fewer tourists.
A realistic daily budget breakdown for either city might look like this:
- Accommodation (Hostel Dorm Bed): €15-30 per night
- Food (Mix of Street Food, Supermarket, Local Eateries): €10-20 per day
- Local Transport: €5-10 per day
- Activities/Incidentals: €5-15 per day
How Do Accommodation Costs Compare?
Hostel prices for a dorm bed typically fall within the €15-30 range in both Belgrade and Budapest. Budapest, being a more established tourist destination, might see prices at the higher end of this range during peak season or for very centrally located hostels. Belgrade generally remains competitive, often offering options towards the lower to mid-end of this spectrum. Booking in advance can often secure better rates in both cities.
What About Food and Dining Expenses?
Food costs are a significant part of any backpacker’s budget. In both cities, a daily food budget of €10-20 is realistic. Meals at local restaurants typically cost €8-15 for a main course.
- Belgrade: Expect hearty, traditional Serbian food. Street food like pljeskavica (a type of burger) or burek (savory pastry) are excellent, budget-friendly options.
- Budapest: Hungarian cuisine is diverse. Local eateries offer goulash and other stews affordably. The city’s famous ruin bars often have reasonably priced food, and market halls are great for fresh produce and prepared meals. Supermarkets are widely available in both for self-catering.
Is Public Transport Affordable in Both Cities?
Public transport is generally affordable and efficient in both Belgrade and Budapest, typically costing €5-10 per day for passes or multiple single tickets.
- Belgrade: Offers a network of trams, buses, and trolleybuses. Tickets can be purchased at kiosks or on board.
- Budapest: Features an extensive and well-integrated metro, tram, and bus system. Travel cards for 24 hours or longer are often the most cost-effective for visitors. Both cities are also highly walkable, especially in their central areas.
Which City Offers More Free Activities?
Both Belgrade and Budapest offer a wealth of free or low-cost activities, allowing backpackers to stretch their budget.
- Belgrade: Enjoy free walking tours, explore Kalemegdan Fortress (Belgrade’s main park and fortress, free to enter), stroll along the Sava and Danube rivers, or wander through vibrant neighborhoods like Skadarlija.
- Budapest: Cross the Chain Bridge, explore Margaret Island, admire the Parliament Building from afar, or take a free walking tour to see major landmarks like St. Stephen’s Basilica (outside viewing is free) and Heroes’ Square.
For finding free amenities like public restrooms, Wi-Fi hotspots, or water fountains, platforms like AllInMap can be a useful tool in either city.
