As a backpacker, making informed choices is key to an enjoyable and budget-friendly trip. Here’s a balanced comparison between Bilbao, Spain, and Edinburgh, Scotland, to help you decide.
Which City Has a Lower Daily Budget?
Bilbao generally offers a lower estimated daily budget for backpackers compared to Edinburgh. While backpackers typically spend €35-55/day in many European cities, specific city costs vary.
- Bilbao (Estimated): Expect to spend approximately €40-65 per day. This usually breaks down to accommodation (€15-25), food (€10-20), local transport (€5-10), and a small allowance for activities or incidentals (€5-10).
- Edinburgh (Estimated): Expect to spend approximately €55-85 per day. This typically includes accommodation (€20-35), food (€15-25), local transport (€5-10), and activities/incidentals (€10-15).
How Do Hostel Prices Compare?
Hostel prices are a significant factor in a backpacker’s budget, and Bilbao is generally more affordable.
- Bilbao (Estimated): Expect to pay approximately €15-25 per night for a dorm bed in a well-rated hostel.
- Edinburgh (Estimated): Expect to pay approximately €20-35 per night for a dorm bed. Prices can be higher, especially during peak seasons or major festivals.
Which City Offers Cheaper Food Options?
Bilbao typically offers more budget-friendly and diverse food options for backpackers.
- Bilbao (Estimated): You can enjoy delicious pintxos (small snacks) for as little as €2-4 per item, easily building a meal. A full budget meal at a local eatery might range from €10-15. Supermarket groceries are also reasonably priced for self-catering.
- Edinburgh (Estimated): Budget-friendly meals might start around €12-20, especially for pub grub or takeaway options. Supermarkets offer good value for self-catering. Meals at local restaurants typically cost €8-15 in many European cities, but this can be higher in popular Edinburgh establishments.
What Are the Typical Transport Costs?
Local transport costs are relatively similar and manageable in both cities for backpackers.
- Both Cities (Estimated): Expect to spend approximately €5-10 per day on public transport if using it regularly. Single tickets typically range from €1.50-3.00, with multi-day passes often providing better value for extensive travel. Both city centers are also highly walkable.
When Are Prices Lowest for Backpackers?
Both cities experience seasonal price fluctuations, impacting accommodation and flight costs.
- General Seasonal Patterns: Spring (April-May) and Fall (September-October) typically offer lower prices for accommodation and flights than the peak summer months (June-August). Visiting outside of major festivals in Edinburgh, for example, can significantly reduce costs. Winter (November-March) can also be cheaper, though weather conditions may vary greatly.
Remember that resources like AllInMap can help backpackers find free amenities and points of interest, further optimizing your budget in either city.
