As a fair and balanced travel writer, I’ve compiled a comparison between Bilbao and Oslo for backpackers, focusing on cost and practical considerations.
Which City Offers a Lower Daily Budget for Backpackers?
Bilbao generally offers a significantly lower estimated daily budget for backpackers compared to Oslo. In Bilbao, a backpacker can typically expect to spend an estimated €45-70 per day. This budget usually covers:
- Accommodation: Hostel beds often range from €20-35 per night.
- Food: Budget-friendly meals from supermarkets or cheap pintxos can cost an estimated €15-25 per day.
- Local Transport: Daily public transport typically costs €5-10.
In Oslo, a backpacker budget is considerably higher, estimated at €70-120 per day. This breakdown includes:
- Accommodation: Hostel beds generally range from €35-50 per night.
- Food: Supermarket purchases are essential for budget travelers, likely costing €20-35 per day. Eating out is substantially more expensive.
- Local Transport: A day pass for public transport typically costs €10-15.
- Note: These are estimated ranges and can vary based on travel style, time of year, and booking in advance.
Where Can Backpackers Find Cheaper Accommodation?
Bilbao offers substantially cheaper accommodation options for backpackers. Hostel prices in Bilbao typically fall within the €20-35 per night range for a dorm bed. In contrast, Oslo, reflecting Norway’s higher cost of living, has significantly more expensive accommodation. Expect hostel dorm beds in Oslo to generally cost €35-50 per night. Booking well in advance can sometimes secure better rates in both cities, though the price difference remains considerable.
Which City is More Budget-Friendly for Food and Dining?
Bilbao is markedly more budget-friendly for food and dining. Backpackers can enjoy affordable pintxos (small snacks/tapas) and meals from local eateries for an estimated €15-25 per day. Supermarket prices are also generally lower. Oslo is one of Europe’s more expensive cities for food. To stay within a backpacker budget, reliance on supermarket groceries is crucial, likely costing €20-35 per day. Dining out, even for casual meals, can be very costly, with main dishes often starting at €20-30.
How Do Transport Costs Compare?
Bilbao offers more affordable public transportation. A day’s worth of local transport typically ranges from an estimated €5-10 using single tickets or multi-day passes. Oslo has higher public transport costs. A 24-hour public transport ticket in Oslo is usually in the range of €10-15. Both cities are walkable in their central areas, which can help minimize transport expenses.
When is the Best Time to Visit for Budget Travelers?
For both cities, the shoulder seasons (spring: April-May; fall: September-October) typically offer lower prices for accommodation and flights compared to the peak summer months (June-August). During these times, the weather is generally pleasant, and tourist crowds are smaller. Winter (November-March) can also be cheaper, especially for Oslo, but temperatures will be significantly colder.
Are There Free Amenities to Look Out For?
Yes, both cities offer free attractions such as parks, walking tours (often tip-based), and some museums with free entry days or hours. Exploring neighborhoods, enjoying city views, and visiting local markets are also typically free. Tools like AllInMap can help backpackers identify free public amenities, including restrooms, Wi-Fi spots, and water fountains, which can further reduce daily spending.
