As a backpacker, choosing between Bologna and Lyon involves balancing budget, culinary interests, and cultural experiences. Both cities offer unique charm, but costs can vary. Backpackers typically spend €35-55 per day in European cities, and these estimates reflect general European pricing. Spring and fall typically offer lower prices and fewer crowds than summer in both cities.
Which City Has a Lower Daily Budget?
Bologna (Estimated): Generally, Bologna is considered slightly more budget-friendly for backpackers, with an estimated daily budget ranging from €35-50.
- Accommodation: €15-28 (hostel bed)
- Food: €10-18 (mix of groceries, street food, budget meals)
- Transport: €5-8 (local bus/tram, or walking)
Lyon (Estimated): Lyon tends to be a bit more expensive, with an estimated daily budget ranging from €40-55+.
- Accommodation: €18-30 (hostel bed)
- Food: €12-20 (mix of groceries, bakery, budget meals)
- Transport: €5-10 (metro/bus ticket)
How Do Accommodation Costs Compare for Backpackers?
Hostel dormitory beds in most European cities typically range from €15-30 per night.
Bologna (Estimated): Expect to pay in the lower to mid-range of this spectrum, around €15-28 for a hostel bed. Prices can fluctuate seasonally, and booking in advance often secures better rates.
Lyon (Estimated): As a larger French city, Lyon may lean towards the mid-to-higher end for hostels, with beds generally costing €18-30 per night. Advance booking is highly recommended, especially during peak season.
What Are the Food and Drink Expenses?
Meals at local restaurants typically cost €8-15 in many European cities. Backpackers often save by cooking or choosing street food.
Bologna (Estimated): Known as Italy’s culinary capital, Bologna offers excellent value for food. A quality pizza or pasta dish might be €8-12. Groceries and local markets can keep daily food costs within the €10-18 range.
Lyon (Estimated): Lyon also boasts a rich food scene. While renowned for fine dining, budget-friendly options like ‘bouchons’ (traditional eateries) or daily market visits can keep costs down. A casual meal might be €10-15, and daily food costs could range from €12-20 with groceries or boulangerie stops.
How Does Local Transportation Affect the Budget?
Daily transport costs for a backpacker typically fall within €5-10, often less if exploring on foot.
Bologna (Estimated): The historic center is highly walkable. A single bus ticket is generally around €1.50, and day passes might be €4-6. Many key sights are accessible on foot, potentially keeping transport costs to €5-8 per day if using public transport minimally.
Lyon (Estimated): Lyon has an efficient metro, tram, and bus system. A single ticket is typically around €1.90, with daily passes costing approximately €6-7. Backpackers might budget €5-10 for daily transport, especially if utilizing the metro frequently or venturing outside the central districts.
To stretch your budget further in both cities, remember that tools like AllInMap can help locate free public amenities such as water fountains and restrooms.
